7/09/2025

NATIONAL 2 theSun on Sunday SEPT 7, 2025

No plans to charge others in Zara Qairina case: AG

Malaysia, Indonesia to discuss issues on telecommunications LAHAD DATU: Malaysia and Indonesia will discuss telecommunications issues between the two countries at a meeting scheduled in two weeks, said Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. He said the meeting, to be held in Kota Kinabalu, will involve the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and its Indonesian counterpart. “Among the matters to be discussed is the telecommunications situation on Sebatik Island in Tawau,” he said after attending the Sembang Santai Komuniti Madani event at Kampung Cocos yesterday. Fahmi said the ministry had received complaints from Sebatik Island residents regarding telecommunications issues. “Among the problems raised were signal spillover from the neighbouring country as well as several spectrum related issues. “There are some preliminary proposals, including the use of repeaters, to be implemented this month, but they are insufficient as they only provide a temporary solution.” Fahmi said internet coverage in populated areas of Sabah, which currently stands at 95.3%, could be further improved through initiatives under the National Digital Network plan. – Bernama He also denied claims that the agreement had been cancelled, stressing that all considerations are still under evaluation. – Bernama JOHOR BAHRU: Malaysia will consider other options to meet the country’s air defence needs following a delay in delivery of F/A-18 Legacy Hornet fighter jets from Kuwait, said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin. He said the matter arose due to uncertainties regarding Kuwait’s receipt of new aircraft from the United States (US), which has in turn delayed the handover of the jets to Malaysia. “I was informed that delivery of new jets from the US to Kuwait has been further delayed. Therefore, we cannot wait without certainty, because Kuwait can only hand over the F/A-18s to us after they receive their new aircraft.” He was speaking after attending the BHPetrol Zakat Wakalah contribution presentation event at Dewan Muafakat Taman Air Biru yesterday. He said the ministry is studying other options so that Malaysia does not end up in a disadvantageous position, including evaluating aircraft available in the market. On Aug 26, Royal Malaysian Air Force Chief Jen Datuk Seri Muhammad Norazlan Aris was reported as saying that the force is reviewing all aspects before making a final decision on the plan to purchase second hand F/A-18 Hornet jets from Kuwait. Govt weighs options as fighter jets delivery delayed

KOTA BHARU: The Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) does not plan to charge any other individuals in connection with the death of Form One student Zara Qairina Mahathir until the inquest proceedings at the Coroner’s Court are completed. Attorney-General Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar said yesterday only five female students have been charged in relation to the case so far. “As of now, we have no plans to charge any other suspects until the Decision may be revisited after Coroner’s Court inquest completed and findings reviewed

Zara Qairina, 13, was pronounced dead at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital on July 17. She had been admitted after being found unconscious in a drain near her school dormitory in Papar at 4am on July 16. On Aug 13, the AGC announced that an inquest would be conducted into her death after reviewing the investigation report submitted by police. On Aug 8, the AGC had the exhumation of Zara Qairina’s remains for a post-mortem. Five teenage girls were charged at the Kota Kinabalu Children’s Court in Sabah on Aug 20 under Section 507C(1) of the Penal Code, read together with Section 34 of the same law, for making threatening, abusive or insulting words against Zara Qairina. The charge carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison, a fine, or both.

inquest proceedings are completed and the findings reviewed,” he said after launching the AGC Madani Adopted Village programme 2025 at Taman Desa Kemumin in Kampung Padang Tembak. He said the proceedings, currently hearing the pathologist’s testimony, were progressing smoothly. Mohd Dusuki said the AGC would also conduct a comprehensive review of all content regarding Zara Qairina’s death uploaded on social media, including TikTok. “Do not be in a hurry to make comments or any conclusions. Let the pathology expert give his testimony fully. We know some parties have questioned the (pathology) evidence. That is not good.” Mohd Dusuki said the proceedings have been set for a specific period and would continue as scheduled, Bernama reported.

Anwar, accompanied by Ahmad Zahid, arriving for the event in Baling yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

Sara initiative commended by foreign leaders, says PM “When we talk about Sara, some criticise, but they forget that it is in addition to the Sara aid and the Rahmah Cash Contribution,” said Anwar when closing a Madani Rakyat event at the Baling district council sports complex yesterday. BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

He reminded leaders at all levels to act with integrity and resist the temptation of power. “My hope is that when entrusted with power, leaders do not fall into corruption or misuse public wealth. We must safeguard the people’s livelihoods, maintain peace and keep the economy strong.” Anwar also reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to safeguarding peace in Southeast Asia amid ongoing challenges. “Back when I assumed the Asean chairmanship, what did I say? Malaysia and Asean are among the most peaceful regions in the world. “Today, there are some challenges, but Alhamdulillah , we have managed to address them,” he said, expressing relief that tensions between Thailand and Cambodia had eased. Anwar said Malaysia would continue working with its Asean partners to keep the region a zone of peace and stability.

BALING: The Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) initiative has not only eased the burden of millions of Malaysians but also caught the eye of foreign leaders, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said the leaders had praised it, and admitted it would be difficult to emulate the initiative in their own countries. He said the one-off distribution of RM100 to all individuals aged 18 and above was particularly lauded by his counterparts, especially Asean leaders, who described it as an innovative way of directly easing financial pressures. “The prime minister of Vietnam (Pham Minh Chinh) recently announced aid of about RM50 per person, and he asked me how we managed to carry out assistance such as Sara. We spent RM15 billion on this programme.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor were also present. Anwar, who is also finance minister, said Malaysia’s economic growth remains encouraging, with rising investments bolstering the country’s outlook. He added that a nation’s progress should not be measured solely in numbers but in how fairly prosperity is shared. “The true test of a nation’s success is how it ensures comfort and dignity for its people, including those in rural and marginalised areas,” he said, adding that his government would continue prioritising regional development and direct aid for the poor.

NATIONAL 3 theSun on Sunday SEPT 7, 2025

Traditions, beliefs meet in Hungry Ghost Festival

KEPALA BATAS: The Human Resources Ministry is drafting amendments to the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969 to provide 24-hour protection for workers under the Social Security Organisation. Human Resources Minister Steven Sim said if there are no issues, the Bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament this year. The move aims to offer comprehensive coverage, extending beyond working hours. “I am grateful it has been approved by the Cabinet after several years of advocacy and we are now drafting amendments to the Act. “For example, if an employee takes his wife and children out for dinner after work, he currently has no protection. After the amendments, 24-hour coverage will be provided, including outside working hours,” he said after the 2025 National Trade Union Assembly in Bertam yesterday. Sim added that the amendments were necessary given the existing gap in coverage, as only 40% of Malaysians are protected by private insurance. He explained that expanded protection would allow workers to access health treatment, rehabilitation and other services in the event of an unforeseen incident, ensuring their well-being and supporting a competitive workforce. Meanwhile, the ministry has begun reviewing 28 labour laws under its purview to ensure national legislation offers up-to-date protection for workers. The review includes major laws such as the Employment Act 1955, Sabah Labour Ordinance and the Sarawak Labour Ordinance. Sim also highlighted that low-income earners can now access free legal services at the Industrial Court through collaboration between the ministry, Bar Council, Sabah Law Society and the Advocates Association of Sarawak. – Bernama 24-hour protection for workers in pipeline Tremors a wake-up call on seismic risks KUALA LUMPUR: A series of minor earthquakes in Johor has highlighted the low level of public awareness on seismic risks in Malaysia, said disaster management expert Raja Segaran Kuppusamy. The former head engineer for disaster risk reduction at the United Nations’ International Organisation for Migration in Iraq added that many Malaysians still assume the country is safe from earthquakes, even as shifting tectonic plates alter local geological conditions. “People don’t believe earthquakes could happen here. They think only of floods, haze and landslides. But when tremors struck Johor, they were shocked. This shows awareness is still very limited,” he told Bernama. He explained that although Malaysia lies outside the Pacific Ring of Fire, it is increasingly affected by the active Sunda plate. Tremors in Johor should be treated as early warning signs, as stronger quakes could trigger landslides, floods, tsunamis and severe damage to infrastructure. Raja Segaran called for a more holistic approach at state, district and grassroots levels to raise awareness, citing Middle Eastern countries where governments practise “communication with communities” to share early warnings. He added that Japan and China have built resilience through decades of experience and close cooperation between authorities and citizens.

Rituals, taboos and folklore highlight Malaysia’s enduring connection to ancestral heritage

unexplained occurrences. @MoonMoon143 wrote how fruits on altars sometimes shrivelled overnight, while identical ones in the kitchen remained fresh. For human resources executive Vanessa Chin, 27, the festival has always carried a sense of mystery. “My parents told me it marks the opening of the ‘Gates of Hell,’ when spirits return to the human world,” she said. Although her family does not observe the rituals, she has long been intrigued by Getai – colourful stage shows performed for both the living and the dead. “These stages are often set up near neighbourhood shops, with singers or opera troupes performing. The front row of seats is always left empty for the spirits. I’ve never joined in properly as it always felt a little creepy,” she said. Her parents also warned her not to touch offerings, adding that spirits would follow her if she did. Other taboos, Chin added, include never tapping someone on the shoulder or turning around if your name is called from behind, superstitions that she feels make the festival distinctive. For accountant Li Mei Ling, 29, the festival once centred on “feeding” deceased relatives through food and joss paper offerings. While her grandparents observed the rituals strictly, her family has since grown less involved. “As a child, I never dared touch the offerings because I was told spirits would chase me if I did. “Today, it’s mostly the older generation that still follow them. For younger ones, it’s more of a tradition we notice but don’t really take part in.”

where he got them, he said he picked them up on the way to school, not realising they were Hungry Ghost offerings outside people’s homes.” For others, pets, rather than people, were causing trouble. @AngelBear1107 described how their family dog once stole a pau from a neighbour’s altar. To avert bad luck, their aunt rushed to the supermarket late at night, bought frozen pau , steamed them and quietly replaced the missing bun. Another user, @SulkingOnion, shared a stranger tale. “My dog took a bite of the offering a few years ago. Now, we occasionally see a second dog in the house, walking just out of sight before disappearing.” Not all stories were light-hearted. @Select_Yesterday8135 recounted how their mother once stepped on a pile of burned joss paper and suffered a month of misfortune afterwards. Some contributors reflected on the deeper meaning of the rituals. @TyrantRex6604 shared that offerings also serve a social function. “In this way, society benefits. I also think people are eligible to take offerings. They are for the ‘hungry ghosts,’ not necessarily the dead.” Meanwhile, @Jahlim explained that food offered during prayers is often shared later. He added that a common superstition states that parents should never let children sit on the offering table as it may cause temporary illness. Then, there are others who described

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Each year during the Hungry Ghost Festival, pavements and street corners across Malaysia transform into makeshift shrines. Small altars with fruits, pau , roasted chicken, sweets and folded joss paper line the streets, offerings to appease wandering spirits believed to roam the Earth during the seventh lunar month. Also known as Zhong Yuan Jie , the festival is rooted in Taoist and Buddhist traditions. According to Chinese belief, the “Gates of Hell” open on the first day of the lunar month, allowing spirits to visit the living world. The 15th day marks the peak, when prayers, offerings and elaborate stage performances are held to honour and pacify restless souls before the gates close at the end of the month. This year, the “Ghost Month” runs from Aug 23 to Sept 21, with the Hungry Ghost Festival observed yesterday. Families carry out rituals to ward off misfortune and show respect to both ancestors and wandering spirits. But as a recent Reddit discussion revealed, offerings do not always remain untouched, with stories ranging from comical to unsettling. One user, @Final-Revolution-823, recounted a teenage incident. “When I was 17, my school friend came to class with a big bag of candies and handed them out. Everyone thought it was just a treat, but when I asked IPOH: Four more Madani Recreational Parks were launched yesterday as part of the government’s target to develop 1,000 parks nationwide by 2035 to enhance community well-being. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the four parks, part of 12 built within the Ipoh City Council administrative area, were completed in July as scheduled. The new parks are located in Taman Pusing Baru, Taman Kledang, Taman Pengkalan Barat and Taman Westpool. “In Ipoh alone, the Housing and Local Government Ministry has allocated RM5.4 million for the construction of 12 parks. Today, we launched four, while the remaining eight have been completed but not yet officiated. “Nevertheless, the parks are already being used and have received very positive feedback. The parks are not only spaces for leisure and recreation, but also serve as a form of physiotherapy to support mental health,” Nga said after officiating at the park at Taman Westpool. He added that the ministry surpassed its target last year with 109 parks completed, while another 100 are expected to be ready this year, bringing the total to 216 by year-end.

Four more Madani recreational parks opened in Ipoh

Nga giving his stamp of approval after officiating at the park at Taman Westpool. – BERNAMAPIC

He also reminded the public to help maintain the parks, following complaints of minor damage caused by irresponsible users. “Everyone must take responsibility in caring for these facilities. Although the damage reported are not serious, I hope we can achieve zero vandalism.” – Bernama

Nga also launched the Kampung Kepayang Gateway yesterday morning, describing it as a milestone for the first Malay village in Ipoh. “After 110 years, the residents finally have a new gateway. The Madani government will continue to ensure the parks become iconic landmarks and community favourites,” he said.

NATIONAL 4 theSun on Sunday SEPT 7, 2025

Turning challenges, personal battles into triumphs

37 children adopted by

Socso since 2017 KUALA NERUS: Since 2017, the Terengganu Social Security Organisation (Socso) has adopted 37 children, aged four to 17, to safeguard their education, welfare and overall well-being. State director Suhara Mustaffa said the initiative would continue until the children turn 17. “Based on statistics, 25 children were adopted through the state Socso office, 10 through the Dungun Socso satellite office and another two through the Kemaman Socso office. Most of the adopted children were orphans whose parents were Socso contributors and who receive survivor’s pension or dependent’s benefits,” she said after a Corporate Social Responsibility event with the Pertubuhan Kebajikan Anak Anak Yatim dan Miskin Darul Akhyar here yesterday. Suhara said the assistance includes school supplies such as uniforms, shoes, bags and other essential items at the start of each school session. “Aidilfitri preparation supplies were also provided. If they need tuition or other additional assistance, it would be considered,” she said. – Bernama Kuching included in airlines bonus programme KUCHING: The Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) said yesterday Kuching has been included as the eighth destination under Malaysia Airlines Bonus Side Trip (BST) programme, making it the only Bornean destination in the initiative. STB said the programme, offered exclusively by Malaysia Airlines, allows international travellers flying into Malaysia on international tickets to add an extra domestic destination at no additional fare, paying only the applicable taxes. “The inclusion in the BST programme reflects the strong partnership we have built with the Malaysia Aviation Group since the signing of our memorandum of understanding in 2024,” said STB CEO Sharzede Salleh in a statement. She said through this initiative, Sarawak is broadening its international reach and reinforcing its commitment to sustainable tourism growth in preparation for Visit Malaysia Year 2026. STB said Kuching’s inclusion positions Sarawak as the natural gateway to Borneo. – Bernama

With perseverance, support and courage, two UiTM students overcome obstacles to reach graduation dream

she found solace on stage. “Almost every semester, I felt like giving up. But studying Theatre gave me an outlet to release my stress. It became a form of healing for me.” Behind her success stood a support network – her family, lecturers and friends who believed in her. She credits two lecturers, Madam Umi and Mr Walid, for guiding her, and her best friend who went the extra mile to learn about her condition. “My best friend even researched my diagnosis so she could understand me better and help me through my studies. But stigma remains a painful reality,” she said. “It hurts me to see people making fun of my autistic friend. Although awareness exists, bullying still seems normalised, and that’s painful to witness,” said her friend.

yesterday as saying that police has not received any reports regarding the Johor-Singapore housing subsidy fraud following a warning issued by the Singapore Police Force (SPF). Singapore media reported that SPF had warned about a scam involving Johor-Singapore housing subsidies that were widely shared on Facebook. An individual allegedly found an advertisement with a link promoting the “JBSG Housing Subsidy Programme” or “Free Homes Across the Causeway” on the platform. – Bernama Looking forward, NurQistina hopes to turn her experience into purpose. “I want to show others that having these diagnoses doesn’t mean you can’t achieve your goals. “Being different is powerful.” For fellow graduate Megat Luqman Hakim Adzmin, 22, the journey was about stepping out of his mother’s shadow and finding his own path. His mother, entertainer Raja Azura, is a household name but Megat never wanted to be defined by her fame. “Whenever I introduced myself, I never mentioned who my mother is. People just knew me as Megat.” It was not until later in university that some classmates recognised his identity. “Some grew distant but I did not take it to heart. “My mother always told me to be humble and be friends with everyone. “If people choose to walk away, that’s their choice and I respect that.” He recounted a turning point during his third semester when his grandfather fell critically ill. “He once told me: ‘People say you won’t have a future, but trust me, you will. Just promise me you’ll graduate and get that square hat (mortar board) first’. That promise kept me going. “My mum has done a wonderful job as a single mother. Today, this graduation robe isn’t just for me, it’s for her.” While many assume being the son of a well-known figure gave him an advantage, Megat is quick to dismiss it. “That’s her career. At the end of the day, she’s my mother and I’m just me.” Different as their paths may be, both NurQistina and Megat share the same lesson – with perseverance, support and courage, challenges can be turned into triumphs.

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

often struggling to keep up in class, and facing peers who did not understand her condition. When I first learned about my diagnosis, I finally understood why I felt different from others,” she said. But school life was not always kind. “When I couldn’t understand something right away, I was often called ‘dumb’ or ‘slow’, which was hurtful. “But I tried to shake it off and focus on doing my best,” said the Theatre graduate. The constant pressure, difficulty in communication and episodes of depression almost drove her to quit. Yet,

SHAH ALAM: Graduation is often seen as a milestone of achievement, but for two Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) students, it is far more than that – a story of resilience, healing and quiet strength to overcome personal battles. For 22-year-old NurQistina Safea Mohd Rashidi, the journey to the convocation hall was a triumph years in the making. Diagnosed with mild autism and dyslexia from a young age, she grew up feeling different,

NurQistina being congratulated by her parents after the convocation ceremony. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

No offer of subsidy, free houses to foreigners: Exco JOHOR BAHRU: The Johor

until 2026 with a target of building 500 units. He said the initiative was to ensure that hardcore poor families get a secure place to live. He added that as of last June, 17,745 affordable housing units with a price range of between RM42,000 and RM300,000 had been handed over to the people. This shows that the state government is consistent and that housing is a priority for its people, in line with the Maju Johor 2030 aspiration. Johor police chief CP Datuk Ab Rahaman Arsad was quoted

and ensure that affordable housing is always a priority for the people of Johor,“ he said. He added that 19 cases of scams involving affordable housing in Johor with losses of about RM155,000 that had been reported previously should serve as a reminder for the people to be more vigilant against dubious offers and to refer to official state government channels. Mohd Jafni said free houses in Johor are only given to the hardcore poor under the Rumah Kasih Johor initiative, for which RM67.5 million has been allocated

government has stressed that it has never and will not offer subsidies or free houses to foreigners, including Singaporeans. State Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor said reports that there were such offers were untrue and a scam. He said this was because the state government had set a floor price of RM1 million for house purchases by foreigners. “This policy remains a measure to protect the interests of locals

NATIONAL 5 theSun on Sunday SEPT 7, 2025

‘Scammers exploit human behaviour to trap victims’

TUARAN: Preliminary police investigations have found that the multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) involved in a crash that killed five Mara Skills Institute students in Jalan Gayang on Friday was speeding before losing control and colliding with a lorry. Tuaran police chief Supt Noraidin Ag Maidin said the vehicle, heading from Kota Kinabalu towards Kota Belud, is believed to have gone out of control before veering into the opposite lane. “This caused the MPV to crash into a lorry that was transporting stones from Tuaran towards Kota Kinabalu,” he said in a statement yesterday. He added that all the victims, who were trapped inside the vehicle, were extricated by Tuaran Fire and Rescue Department personnel before their bodies were sent to the Tuaran Hospital for post-mortem. The case is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, and several individuals have had their statements recorded to assist in the investigations, he added. “Anyone with information on the crash is urged to contact traffic investigation officer Insp Haffiz at 011-6160 0964 or visit the nearest police station,” he said. The incident occurred at 2.09pm in front of the People’s Volunteer Corps training centre in Jalan Gayang. Mara chairman Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said he has ordered immediate assistance for the families of the five students, identified as Ikhwan Kurniawan, Harianto Anuar, Danial Sarag, Mohamad Zuhaikal and Neil Stanley Pletinie. Asyraf said he has instructed the Sabah Mara director and the Kota Kinabalu Mara Skills Institute management to immediately contact the affected families and provide all necessary assistance, including facilitating funeral arrangements. – Bernama MPV in Tuaran crash case was speeding: Police SMS scam ring using illegal device crippled SMS illegal telecommunication equipment known as Fake Base Transceiver Station (Fake BTS) has been crippled under Ops Pancing, a joint operation by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and police. In a statement yesterday, MCMC said intelligence work and public information led to the arrest of an individual operating a Fake BTS device in a vehicle near a shopping mall in Kuala Lumpur recently. “Checks found the equipment functioning as a Fake BTS in active mode and frequency tests confirmed it was used to transmit fraudulent SMS containing phishing links and gambling-related messages to the public.” Following the arrest, MCMC with police assistance raided a double-storey terrace house in Kota Kemuning, Shah Alam, which was used to store vehicles, including a multi-purpose vehicle and communication devices linked to Fake BTS activities. “A total of 45 items worth about RM100,000 were seized, while another individual’s statement was recorded to assist further investigations,” the statement added. The case is being investigated under Section 239(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which provides for a maximum fine of RM1 million or up to 10 years’ imprisonment, or both. – Bernama using PUTRAJAYA: fraudulent A syndicate spreading

Syndicate members use threats, persuasion and play with emotions, leaving individuals vulnerable to manipulation, says psychologist

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Scammers no longer rely on hacking systems – they hack people. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia psychologist Dr Zulfikar Ahmad said syndicates today succeed not through technical breaches but by exploiting human behaviour, a tactic widely known as social engineering. “Humans will always be human. When scammers cannot penetrate a secure system, they target people instead. Manipulation works through threats, persuasion and exploiting emotions,” he told theSun . According to him, victims are often overwhelmed by fear, urgency or confusion, which leaves them vulnerable to manipulation. “Scammers use authority, tone of voice and urgency. When victims do not resist, aggressors escalate. That is how the psychological trap works.” Zulfikar said the public should not assume that education or professional background provides immunity. “Even lawyers and programmers have been deceived. The scammer’s strength lies not in technology but in reading and manipulating human reactions,” he added. He said syndicates often tailor their approaches – older people, unfamiliar with digital systems, are more vulnerable to financial scams, while romance scams prey on those seeking companionship and acceptance. “The consequences are not only financial. They can shatter marriages, trigger lasting shame, and in extreme cases, even result in suicide,” he added. One case shows how quickly a routine encounter can unravel. A 28-year-old woman thought she was answering a harmless query when she returned a call about a parcel supposedly linked to her identity card. The call, which appeared to come from Pos Malaysia, soon escalated into a nightmare. “I was told a parcel addressed to someone else had my IC inside it. The caller said I should lodge a police report, but directed me not to my local station but to Bukit Mertajam police,” she said. She was asked to leave her office, stay on the line and read a script once the call was “transferred” to an officer. Believing she was speaking to enforcement authorities, she disclosed her IC and bank details. “They accused me of being part of a syndicate led by Wong Swee Chin, or Botak Chin, and claimed illegal money had been found in my Tabung Haji account.

Zulfikar said older people, unfamiliar with digital systems, are more vulnerable to financial scams, while romance scams prey on those seeking companionship and acceptance. – ILLUSTRATIVE PIC BY SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN/THESUN

2024 to 9,090 this year. Operational since October 2022, the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) was recently expanded to a 24-hour one-stop unit under the Home Ministry and police. Between July 7 and 31 alone, an additional RM1.67 million was successfully secured compared with the same period last year. “The effective, integrated operation of the NSRC has built public confidence that the ministry, through police, is serious about combating cybercrime threats,” the ministry said. But Zulfikar stressed that enforcement alone is not enough. “At the end of the day, the weakest link is still human behaviour. That is what scammers know, and that is what they exploit. Awareness must be constant, and people must learn to question rather than comply when faced with pressure,” he said.

“I was threatened with arrest warrants from Bukit Aman before being ‘transferred’ again to the Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission,” she recounted. Under pressure, she withdrew RM10,000 and deposited the sum in two transactions into an account given by the scammers, who demanded hourly updates on WhatsApp. It was only later, after installing a caller identification app, that she realised the number originated from Indonesia. By then, her money was gone. Police later told her the funds were unlikely to be recovered. Zulfikar said such cases highlight how scammers weaponise psychology. “They observe hesitation, then push harder. Victims comply because resisting authority feels riskier in the moment,” he said. In a written reply to Senator Tiew Way Keng on Sept 4, the Home Ministry said scam call reports increased from 7,425 in

Man found dead in car at petrol station SUNGAI PETANI: The body of a 51-year old man was discovered in a car parked at a petrol station in Bandar Perdana near here on Friday.

statement yesterday. He added that investigations did not point to any criminal elements. “The victim had a prior medical history. The body has been sent to the Sultan Abdul Halim Hospital here for a post-mortem,” he said. – Bernama

Choras in Pendang. “At 3.15pm, we received a call about a car that had been parked at a petrol station in Bandar Perdana since last Thursday. Inside was a man who showed no signs of movement, and the vehicle emitted a foul odour,” he said in a

Kuala Muda police chief ACP Hanyan Ramlan said the victim was identified as Amear Mat Isa from Kampung Bukit

NATIONAL 6 theSun on Sunday SEPT 7, 2025

Making mark as public speaker

In school and university, Mahathir noticed that classmates hesitated to speak in front of others. Having grown up around Toastmasters, he often volunteered to present on behalf of his groups. Later, while studying psychology, he realised communication was understanding to

up public speaking.” Despite years of practice, Mahathir admits he still gets nervous before stepping on stage. But instead of fearing it, he has learned to use it to his advantage. “Nervousness shows you care, that you want to give a good performance and a good speech.”

“A month before Maulidur Rasul, we would have already placed orders with entrepreneurs who are also villagers. This tradition is not just about exchanging kuih but also about strengthening ties.” Nurul Nadiah Shafie, 33, who moved here from Kuching after marriage, said each tray costs about RM200, depending on the design and selection of kuih . “In urban areas like Kuching, there are no such celebrations.” Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah urged residents to preserve tukar palak kuih as a unique village identity. – Bernama contest as an opportunity to refine his craft. “What motivated me was growth. Every year, I competed with one goal in mind, to be better than I was the previous year.” He believes Malaysia does not treat communication skills seriously enough. For him, the aim is not for everyone to compete internationally but for young people to gain confidence in everyday situations. “Who we are is shaped by our environment. If young people are not allowed to voice out, they won’t find their voice.” Mahathir’s journey shows how encouragement, practice and exposure can help even the quietest individual build a voice strong enough to reach international audiences. Today, he is the co-founder and managing director of Mic Front Public Speaking, which operates 14 outlets nationwide to train children and young adults.

Malaysian clinches second place in World Championship of Public Speaking held last month, improving from third position secured in 2022

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

just speak to myself.” Mahathir was one of only two Asean representatives in the top three, along with Bruneian Allen Ang Boon Kiat. The title went to Indian competitor Sabyasachi Sengupta, who is based in Amsterdam. He credits his parents, who were among the earliest Malaysians to join Toastmasters, for introducing him to the world of public speaking. Toastmasters is a global organisation that helps people develop communication, leadership and presentation skills. “As a young child, I had no choice but to follow them. Even my older sibling, now 33, took

PETALING JAYA: Mas Mahathir Mohamad (pic) used to be the quiet one in the room. Today, the 32-year-old Malaysian has made his mark as a public speaker. In 2022, he reached the finals of the World Championship of Public Speaking, finishing third. Last month he went one better, securing second place, a remarkable feat for someone who once struggled to speak up. “Rather than a public speaker, I considered myself a private speaker. I wasn’t open to sharing or speaking up. I liked to think on my own terms and

That mindset has helped him transform anxiety into energy to connect with audiences. Mahathir believes many young Malaysians do not get the encouragement he received.

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people. Still, public speaking was never part of his career plans. “I wanted to be a traveller, a musician, so many things except to be a public speaker.”

“If our schools, tuition centres or homes don’t allow us to voice out, we won’t develop the public speaking ability. My parents encouraged me, and that is how I found my voice. But many families still prioritise academics over communication.” Kuih- swapping tradition sweetens life for village residents The turning point came in 2016 when he joined a corporate training company. His supervisor told him he needed to join Toastmasters if he wanted to grow. From then on, Mahathir competed regularly, using each

about 700 residents from surrounding areas to the Kampung Sebandi Ulu community hall. “This tradition began in the 1940s. At first, there were only a few houses but now, there are 186. So, the celebration is more vibrant. Indirectly, it also creates economic opportunities as many order palak kuih from local makers more than a month in advance.” Activities held over two days include doa selamat , selawat , zikir and cukur jambul ceremonies, a 1km-long procession involving 21 contingents, followed by the highlight, the kuih exchange. For retired teacher Taher Ismail, 60, preparations begin weeks ahead.

ASAJAYA: Each Maulidur Rasul, the courtyards of homes in Kampung Sebandi Ulu, about 50km from Kuching, come alive with trays of colourful cakes and traditional kuih to be exchanged in the tukar palak kuih tradition, a heritage of more than 80 years that continues to bind the community together. The custom sees families preparing at least one tray with a cake in the middle ( palak ) surrounded by assorted kuih such as bahulu , peneram , kuih loyang and Sarawak layered cake, before exchanging them with neighbours as a symbol of sharing blessings and unity. Village head Jama Baylai, 50, said this year’s celebration drew

Kampung Sebandi Ulu residents parading with trays of kuih for the event. – BERNAMAPIC

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Succession crisis looms TOKYO: Japan yesterday heralded the coming-of-age of Prince Hisahito with an elaborate ceremony at the Imperial Palace, where a succession crisis is brewing. becomes the emperor or a man does,” said Tokyo bartender Yuta Hinago. The 33-year-old felt there could be “room for more flexibility” in the succession rules. and major changes would divide the nation. Under the post-war constitution, the royal family holds no political power. With royal daughters forced to leave the family after marriage, one modernising proposal would see them continue their public duties after their nuptials. Japan prince comes of age at Imperial Palace

SYDNEY: A “large shark” mauled a surfer to death at a Sydney beach yesterday, Australian police said, in a rare fatal attack that led to a string of beach closures. The 57-year-old man had gone surfing with five or six friends in the Pacific waters off northern Sydney’s Long Reef and Dee Why beaches, police said. The man – an experienced surfer with a wife and a young daughter – lost “a number of limbs”, New South Wales police superintendent John Duncan told a news conference. A couple of surfers saw him in the water and got him to shore, Duncan said. “Unfortunately, by that time we understand he lost a lot of blood and attempts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful.” Beachgoers nearby saw the ocean predator, leaving police “fairly confident” that it was a shark attack. The man’s surfboard was broken in half, Duncan said. Experts will examine the remains of the surfboard and the man’s body to help them determine the species of shark involved, police said. Most serious shark bites in ocean-loving Australia are from great whites, bull sharks and tiger sharks. Beaches between the northern suburbs of Manly and Narrabeen have been closed for at least 24 hours, Surf Life Saving NSW said. Surf lifesaving clubs nearby have cancelled all water activity and training for the weekend. Drones and surf lifesavers on jetskis were patrolling the beaches for shark activity. It was the first fatal shark attack in Sydney since 2022, when 35-year-old British diving instructor Simon Nellist was killed off Little Bay. The previous fatal attack in the city was in 1963. An unnamed surfer told Sydney’s Daily Telegraph that he saw the aftermath of the attack. “Four or five surfers pulled him out of the water and it looked like a significant part of his lower half had been attacked,” he said. People were ordered out of the water, he told the paper. Australia’s last deadly shark attack was in March, when a surfer was taken off the remote Wharton Beach of Western Australia. – AFP ‘Large shark’ kills man off Sydney beach Seoul rushes to help Koreans held in US SEOUL: South Korean President Lee Jae Myung ordered all-out efforts on Saturday to respond to the arrests of hundreds of the nation’s citizens in a US immigration raid on a Hyundai Motor car battery factory. Foreign Minister Cho Hyun said the government has set up a team to respond to Thursday’s arrest of over 300 Koreans at the facility, under construction in Georgia, and that he may go to Washington to meet officials if needed. The arrest of some 475 workers at the plant near Savannah, part of President Donald Trump’s escalating crackdown on immigrants, was the largest single-site enforcement operation in the history of the Department of Homeland Security. The Trump administration and Seoul, a key Asian ally and investor in the US, have been at odds over the details of a trade deal that includes US$350 billion (RM1.47 trillion) of South Korean investments in the United States. – Reuters

Japan has debated the royal succession for decades, with a key government panel in 2005 recommending that it pass to the oldest child regardless of their sex. That appeared to pave the way for the emperor’s daughter to rise to the Chrysanthemum Throne, but Hisahito’s birth the following year silenced the debate. Politicians have been slow to act, “kicking the can down the road”, and delaying a solution with youthful Hisahito in view, said Kenneth

The nephew of Emperor Naruhito, Hisahito received a black silk and lacquer crown at the ceremony, which marks the beginning of his royal adult life. “Thank you very much for bestowing the crown today at the coming of age ceremony,” Hisahito said. “I will fulfil my duties, being aware of my responsibilities as an adult member of the imperial family.” Although the emperor has a daughter, Princess Aiko, the 23-year old has been sidelined by the royal family’s male-only succession rules. “As a young member of the Imperial Family, I am determined to fulfil my role,” Hisahito said in March. Second in line to become emperor after his father, the 19-year-old will appear at the Tokyo palace to pay his respects to gods and ancestors. Although tradition dictates only a man can carry on the imperial line,

Conservatives are pushing for the royal household to bring distant relatives back to the fold. But it is unclear if those men would be willing to give up their careers and freedom to continue the lineage. Hisahito said this year he has “not yet thought deeply” about his own marriage prospects, which could be challenging. Historically, women who wed royals have faced intense pressure to produce sons and have become constant subjects of gossip. Despite broad public support for changing the succession rules, away from the pageantry, people are focused on other issues, such as rising inflation, said royal historian Hideya Kawanishi. “If people who are generally supportive (of women emperors) become a bit louder, then politicians can become more serious,” said Kawanishi, an associate professor at Nagoya University. “But when ceremonies end, society, including the media, calms down and moves on.” – AFP

Ruoff, director of the Centre for Japanese Studies at Portland State University. Traditionalists have asserted that the “unbroken

imperial line” of male succession is the foundation of J a p a n ,

which goes back 2,600 years according to legend, opinion polls have shown high public support for a woman taking the throne. “It makes no

Hisahito attending the coming-of-age ceremony at the Imperial

difference to me whether a woman

Palace in Tokyo. –

KYODO/VIA REUTERSPIC

Thai PM-elect reaffirms fresh polls promise BANGKOK: Thailand’s prime minister elect has pledged to make good on his promise to lead the fractured interim government to new polls. “We must bring back the spirit of the ‘Land of Smiles’ to our country during my short time in office,” he said, adding that he was known to dislike conflict.

but pulled out in June over Paetongtarn’s alleged misconduct in a leaked phone call with Cambodian ex-leader Hun Sen. The Shinawatras have been a mainstay of Thai politics for the past two decades, sparring with the pro-monarchy, pro military establishment that views them as a threat to the kingdom’s traditional social order. But they have faced a series of setbacks, including Paetongtarn’s removal last week. Anutin previously served as deputy prime minister, interior minister and health minister – but is perhaps most famous for delivering on a promise to legalise cannabis in 2022. His elevation to premiership still needs to be endorsed by Thailand’s king to become official. – AFP

Anutin also addressed Thaksin’s flight from the kingdom the night before Friday’s vote – and days before a court case – bound for Dubai where he said he would visit friends and seek medical treatment. “There will be no favouritism, no persecution and no revenge,” Anutin said. The Supreme Court is due to rule on Tuesday in a case over Thaksin’s hospital stay following his return from exile in August 2023, a verdict some analysts say could see him jailed. Anutin’s right-wing Bhumjaithai party went into coalition with Pheu Thai in 2023,

Anutin Charnvirakul was selected by parliament on Friday, ending a week-long power vacuum following the ouster of his predecessor Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Anutin cobbled together a coalition of opposition blocs to shut out Pheu Thai, the electoral vehicle of the once-dominant Shinawatra dynasty patriarch Thaksin. He received the backing of the People’s Party, which holds a plurality of seats, on condition that he dissolve parliament within four months for fresh elections. “I will follow all agreements,” he said on Friday outside his party headquarters.

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Arab states endorse joint statement End hostilities, Israel told

Trump signs order for blacklist WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump on Friday signed an executive order paving the way for Washington to designate countries a state sponsor of wrongful detention and impose punitive measures, including sanctions, on those it deems are wrongfully holding Americans. Senior administration officials said the United States would target countries holding wrongfully detained Americans as well as those that engage in “hostage diplomacy”, which one official said would be reviewed for designation. “The bottom line: Anyone who uses an American as a bargaining chip will pay the price. This administration is not only putting America first but also putting Americans first,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement. A second senior administration official said the penalties imposed on countries will be similar to how the United States deploys the Foreign Terrorist Organisation designations and include measures such as sanctions, export controls and barring those deemed associated with wrongful detentions from entering the US. The officials said under the new policy, the US will give notice to a country after identifying that there has been a wrongful detention, allowing them time to act before Washington begins to impose sanctions. It could also lift sanctions if there is progress. – Reuters Putin nudges rocket makers MOSCOW: President Vladimir Putin urged aerospace industry leaders on Friday to press on with efforts to develop booster rocket engines for space launch vehicles and build on Russia’s reputation as a leader in space technology. Putin flew to the southern Russian city of Samara, where he met industry specialists and toured the Kuznetsov design bureau aircraft engine manufacturing plant. He said Russia remained a leading force in the development of the aerospace industry. “It is important to consistently renew production capacity in terms of engines for booster rockets,” he said. “We must not only meet our own current and future needs but also move actively on world markets and be successful competitors.” Putin also highlighted Russian success in developing innovations in terms of producing engines, particularly in the energy sector, despite the imposition of sanctions by Western countries linked to Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. He pointed to the development of the PD-26 aircraft engine, saying it would allow for the development of military transports and wide-bodied passenger planes. – Reuters

occupying power” remain major obstacles to “peaceful coexistence” in the region. The resolution was part of a wider meeting in Cairo, at which foreign ministers endorsed a “Joint Vision for Security and Cooperation in the Region”. The meeting came as Israeli forces intensified a military offensive around Gaza City, the territory’s largest urban centre, and days after Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for annexation of swathes of the West Bank to “bury the idea of a Palestinian state”. In the resolution, a copy of

which was obtained by AFP, the Arab bloc said lasting peace, cooperation and coexistence in the Middle East are not possible while Israel continues to occupy Arab land or “issues implicit threats to occupy or annex Arab lands”. Egypt and Jordan have signed treaties with Israel. The United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco normalised relations with Israel in 2020 under the Jared Kushner-brokered Abraham Accords. However, Saudi Arabia’s own normalisation talks with Israel were frozen.

billion (RM49.8 billion), according to Forbes magazine. “Every fashion show was pure magic,” fashion student Pietro Angeleri, 20, told AFP as he queued to pay his last respects. “No one has managed to make women stand out like he did. He will be missed.” The company has not revealed the cause of Armani’s death, but Italy’s Corriere della Sera newspaper reported he had been suffering from liver failure. He was hospitalised with viral bronchopneumonia in June in Milan, it said, which left him weakened, even if he seemed to recover. After his 91st birthday on July 11, which he celebrated with a small family party, long-standing problems with his liver returned, Corriere said. He had kept working almost to the end, finalising outfits for the show celebrating his 50th anniversary at Milan Fashion Week at the end of the month, which will now serve as his final farewell. – AFP In its resolution, the League said any lasting settlement must be based on a two-state solution and the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative, which offers a full normalisation of relations in return for a complete Israeli withdrawal from the territories it occupied in 1967. Egypt said on Friday there was “no room for allowing any party to dominate the region or enforce unilateral security arrangements that compromise its security and stability”. The Israeli military said early yesterday it was establishing a humanitarian zone in the Al-Mawasi area of Gaza’s Khan Younis, as it plans to expand military activities. The military said the area will be provided with field hospitals, water pipelines, desalination facilities and food supplies. A spokesperson for the military called on residents to evacuate to the area. In New York, the UN General Assembly decided to resume a conference on the two-state solution on Sept 22, reviving a process that was put on hold this summer amid escalating violence in the Middle East. The assembly adopted an oral decision proposed by Saudi Arabia on the resumption of the High-level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two State Solution. After its adoption, Israel and the United States declared their disassociation from it, saying the resumption of the conference would prolong the war in Gaza. – Agencies

CAIRO: The Arab League has said peaceful coexistence in the Middle East cannot be achieved without a Palestinian state and an end to what it described as Israel’s “hostile practices”. In a resolution submitted by Egypt and Saudi Arabia and adopted on Thursday, the League said “the failure to reach a just solution to the Palestinian cause and the hostile practices of the

Palestinians run as a building hit by an Israeli airstrike collapses in Gaza City. – REUTERSPIC

Thousands pay respects to fashion legend Armani MILAN: Thousands of mourners paid homage yesterday to Italian fashion legend Giorgio Armani, who died this week aged 91, as his casket was put on public display in Milan.

Crowds filed past the wooden closed casket in a darkened room lit by paper candles and an image of the designer on a big screen. Armani, the head of a luxury fashion empire, died on Thursday after months of fragile health and will be laid to rest after a private funeral tomorrow in Milan. Hundreds of people queued up for the start of the two-day public viewing at the Teatro Armani, the company’s minimalist but luxurious headquarters in Milan. Among the first mourners through the door was a group of Armani group staff, all in black mourning wear and black sunglasses. “It’s so emotional,” said Silvia Albonetti, an Emporio Armani saleswoman. “He was an incredible man ... sometimes rude, but human.” Tributes flooded in for Armani following his death on Thursday

A mourner pays tribute as Armani lies in state at his headquarters in Milan. – REUTERSPIC

control of his company as it moved from fashion into luxury hotels, cosmetics, accessories and interiors. When he died, he was one of the richest men in the world, with a net worth estimated at US$11.8

from across the fashion industry and also Hollywood, where his understated but exquisitely tailored creations were beloved by the A-listers. Throughout his remarkable career, he kept top-to-bottom