24/09/2025

RVs to hit Malaysian roads as licensed commercial rentals Landmark policy shift will drive self-tourism, expand caravan

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Report on h page 2 Deactivated MyKad used to claim Sara benefits: Saifuddin Home Ministry acts to plug loophole by syncing with Finance Ministry ahead of Budi95 fuel scheme rollout. Call for stronger action against Meta over spread of harmful content Widespread exploitation of tech giant’s platforms by syndicates involved in cybercrime warrants decisive deterrence, says cyber consumer association.

The government has a duty to educate and empower children with knowledge, not punish them for its own failure to provide essential information, says NGO. – AI-GENERATED IMAGE/AZURA ABAS

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Proposals to prosecute girls under 16 for ‘consensual sex’ draw strong opposition from child rights groups and legal experts, who warn move would contradict existing protections for children and undermine law’s intent. ‘Educate, not punish, statutory rape victims’

WEDNESDAY | SEPT 24, 2025

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Measures taken to prevent use of deactivated MyKad

PETALING JAYA: Hari Cuci Malaysia or Malaysia Cleanup Day 2025 is set to raise the bar by rallying more than 100,000 participants nationwide and collecting at least 3,000kg of used cooking oil in a single day – two records organisers are confident of achieving. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the initiative, first introduced last year as a ministerial programme, has now been elevated to a national event, with the last Saturday of September officially designated as Hari Cuci Malaysia. BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com Govt to ensure no misuse of RON95 petrol subsidy GEORGE TOWN: The government will introduce several control measures to ensure RON95 petrol subsidies are properly targeted and not misused, said Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan. He said the measures aim to verify that those requiring more than 300 litres a month, such as e-hailing drivers, are genuinely eligible, with confirmation from their respective companies. “If eligibility is confirmed, they can apply with company support. We can verify usage through e-hailing system records to ensure that the fuel is genuinely used for work. “The government will also restrict excessive daily usage,” he said after launching the national-level Mega E Invoicing Tour series 2/2025 yesterday. He said preparations for the subsidy rollout are going smoothly, with all oil companies confirming their readiness, adding that machines for in-store use have been provided and activated by most oil firms. – Bernama

“Now when we deactivate a MyKad, it will immediately sync with the MOF’s system. If someone tries to use that card, whether for Sara claims or to buy fuel, it will automatically be blocked,” he said yesterday. Saifuddin Nasution said while the number is small compared with the 18 million MyKad in circulation, the implications are serious. He said without the fix, the loophole could have enabled widespread Budi95 subsidy abuse. He added that MOF has also prepared a fallback in case of technical issues. “People can go to the counter and key in their MyKad number manually. The system will recognise it. We don’t want people to get angry, so we want to make it easy until the system stabilises.” other nations.” He said Malaysia Cleanup Day 2025 has three objectives, namely to strengthen civic awareness on cleanliness, prepare for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and promote environmental sustainability through recycling. With tourism now Malaysia’s second largest source of national revenue, Nga said the country is on the right track. “Recently, Time Out magazine and TripAdvisor ranked Malaysia as Asia’s most popular destination, with projections of over 40 million international tourists this year, the highest ever, surpassing Thailand, and positioning the nation as not only a yesterday to begin a historic two-day official visit to Timor-Leste, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and supporting the nation’s imminent inclusion as Asean’s 11th member. Welcoming him on arrival were President Dr Jose Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao. Also present were Malaysian Ambassador to Timor Leste Datuk Amarjit Singh Sarjit Singh and Timor-Leste’s Chief of Protocol Juvencio Martins. Accompanying Anwar are Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil and senior officials from the Prime Minister’s Department and the Foreign Ministry. The welcome ceremony included an inspection of a static guard of honour, followed by the presentation of the Tais , a traditional handwoven textile of deep cultural significance to the Timorese people. The ceremony also featured a traditional welcoming troupe and a school drum band performance. Anwar was also invited to join Ramos-Horta in a ride on the Mini

Moke, an open-top classic vehicle that has become a familiar sight at state events in Timor-Leste. Ramos Horta drove the car, with Anwar seated beside him in the front, while Gusmao rode in the back. The use of the Moke, long associated with Ramos-Horta’s personal style and informal public outreach, added a distinctive cultural touch as the trio travelled together from the airport to a nearby hotel. This marks the first visit by a Malaysian prime minister to Timor Leste in 22 years, Bernama reported. Malaysia was the first Asean nation to establish an embassy in Dili, doing so on the eve of Timor-Leste’s independence in May 2002. The visit is expected to strengthen practical cooperation. More than 1,000 Timorese have benefited from training under the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme while 55 students are currently pursuing studies in Malaysia. Economic and people-to-people ties have also grown, boosted by Batik Air’s direct Kuala Lumpur-Dili flights launched in June 2025 and the introduction of 30-day visa-free travel for Malaysians in August. regional hub but also a global tourism focus. “Next month, Malaysia will again be in the international spotlight as we host the Asean Plus Summit, welcoming world leaders including the US president, prime ministers of China and India as well as leaders from Brazil and South Africa. “Therefore, it is the responsibility of every Malaysian to ensure that our country remains clean, beautiful and prosperous. Waste must be properly managed and not thrown into drains, causing flash floods.” He urged Malaysians to join the cleanup drive on Saturday at Pantai Cahaya Negeri, Port Dickson. He said MyKad deactivation is also handled carefully to safeguard personal data. Earlier, he visited NRD counters and noted that services were being handled well. “I had the chance to interact with people who came from around Putrajaya, Kajang, Bandar Putra and Subang. They considered the waiting time reasonable, about 30 minutes, with everything completed on the same day.” He said NRD staff had been instructed to work overtime if needed. On Monday, the Home Ministry said applications for MyKad chip replacements had surged from about 30,000 to 40,000. The RM10 replacement fee has been waived until Oct 7, with the government to absorb about RM714,660 in costs.

o 100 cases detected where cards reported lost, taken off NRD system, being used to claim Sara benefits, says minister

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

National Registration Department (NRD) system were still used to claim Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) benefits. “When someone reports that his MyKad is lost, the NRD immediately deactivates it in the system. But Sara is managed under the Finance Ministry (MOF), and when the scheme was rolled out our systems were not synchronised. “So, although the card was already deactivated by the NRD it could still be used for Sara aid. said at the pre-launch ceremony yesterday. Nga said last year’s cleanup day had secured three Malaysia Book of Records milestones – the largest nationwide gotong-royong with over 55,000 participants, the longest continuous cleanup programme and the highest single-day waste collection of 4,645.50 metric tonnes. “Held in conjunction with World Cleanup Day on Sept 20 and recognised by the United Nations, this event underscores Malaysia’s commitment to global sustainability efforts. “With Malaysia entrusted to hold the UN-Habitat presidency, it is only fitting for us to set a good example to

PUTRAJAYA: Deactivated identity cards are still being used to claim subsidies, the Home Ministry revealed, as it moves to close a loophole ahead of the nationwide rollout of the Budi95 fuel scheme on Sept 30. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution said about 100 cases had been detected where cards reported lost and deactivated in the

Malaysia Cleanup Day expected to break records

“This year, we have adopted a whole-of-nation approach, involving school students, government agencies, GLCs and industry associations such as the Malaysian Plastics Manufacturers Association. “Strategic partners including housing developers PR1MA and Syarikat Perumahan Negara Berhad, cleaning service providers such as SWM as well as private companies and NGOs like the Tzu Chi Foundation, I Earth You and Roman Catholics Archdiocesan Office for Human Development are also taking part. “With this collective support, we are confident the initiative will succeed in breaking two more records,” he

Anwar in Timor-Leste for two-day official visit DILI: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim arrived here

Anwar being driven to a hotel in a Mini Moke by Ramos-Horta with Gusmao in the rear seat. – BERNAMAPIC

WEDNESDAY | SEPT 24, 2025

3 Backlash over call to prosecute minors in statutory rape cases

Mufti backs push to hold girls liable in underage sex offences PETALING JAYA: Federal Territories Mufti Datuk Ahmad Fauwaz Fadzil Noor has supported a proposal by Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat, saying underage girls in consensual sex cases should not be fully exempted from liability. In a statement published on the Federal Territories Mufti’s office website on Sept 22, he said civil law tends to focus on prosecuting men while protecting women. However, he argued that this approach does not always reflect the reality of cases where both parties may have been equally involved. “The government has the right to review the laws relating to consensual statutory rape. “Harsher punishments should be imposed on all parties involved. Granting immunity to one side will not solve the problem,” he said. Ahmad Fauwaz said the current legal stance appears biased as it punishes only one party, although both may be morally culpable. He added that women should also face punishment if found guilty, noting that while civil law protects female victims, they should not be exempted from responsibility if they contributed to the offence. “Fair and proportionate punishment for both parties will provide more effective lessons and deterrence. “Exempting one side from punishment could encourage the repetition of such offences and denies the reality that in many cases both parties were involved knowingly and willingly, even if one of them was underage.” At the same time, Ahmad Fauwaz said authorities still have the discretion to impose harsher punishment on men who exploit underage girls, as they have yet to reach the maturity needed to think rationally. “On the other hand, it is the man’s responsibility to guide and protect women, not exploit them. “Islamic law aims to provide education ( ta’dib ) to offenders and society as a whole, so that crimes are not repeated. Therefore, granting immunity to one side contradicts the objectives and principles of Islamic law,” he added. – By QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI

PETALING JAYA: Proposals to prosecute minors in statutory rape cases have drawn strong opposition from child rights groups and legal experts, who warn such a move would contradict existing protections for children and undermine the law’s intent. Child Rights Innovation and Betterment (CRIB) Foundation co chairperson Srividhya Ganapathy described the suggestion as regressive and legally unsound. “Under current law, statutory rape charges are rightly brought against the man. To extend liability to the girl fundamentally contradicts the protective purpose of the law. Criminalising children is never the solution.” She warned that prosecuting girls under 16 would entrench victim-blaming, deter abuse reports and perpetuate harmful stereotypes such as blaming a child’s clothing or suggesting she “wanted it”. Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI AND T.C KHOR newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o Child rights groups stress the young must be protected, not criminalised, urge peer-to peer defence in consensual relationships

defence, abolish child marriage by setting 18 as the minimum age and provide reproductive health education in schools. We also urge the release of transparent data on education and recidivism in custodial and welfare institutions.” Women for Women secretary Linda Lam also rejected the idea, calling it discriminatory and inconsistent with Malaysian law and international conventions. “Children, whether girls or boys, must never be criminalised for statutory rape. Even the word consensual should not be used as minors are legally incapable of giving consent,” she said, in response to police claims that over 90% of statutory rape cases were consensual. Lam said focusing solely on girls reflects gender bias and risks discouraging victims from lodging reports. “Boys and girls are equally susceptible to grooming and exploitation. Both deserve equal protection under the law. Singling out girls reinforces harmful stereotypes and shifts the blame onto them.” Instead of criminalisation, Lam urged stronger enforcement of existing laws such as the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017 to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice. “What children need are safe spaces, counselling and sex education. Children, especially girls, are victims and should not be treated as offenders.” She added that caregivers and educators must be trained to identify grooming behaviours early, while accessible reporting channels should be provided. Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat had earlier suggested charging girls in statutory rape cases, saying it would serve as a warning to teenagers. Law and Institutional Reform Minister Azalina Othman Said later clarified that Yusoff’s remarks were his personal opinion, affirming the government’s commitment to international norms in handling cases involving minors. Seputeh MP Teresa Kok also criticised the suggestion as lacking gender sensitivity and legal understanding. “Lawyers for Liberty were quick to challenge. “But when police officers are injured, when they are hit with stones or pieces of broken flowerpots, there is silence. “As if human rights only apply to certain people. “It is unfortunate when a professional group of lawyers only comments on selected statements while staying quiet on others. “If you want to be a champion of rights, you must be consistent. You cannot be silent in one situation and loud in another,” he added.

consensual sex with a person under 16 is a crime. The state has a duty to educate and empower children with knowledge, not punish them for its own failure to provide essential information.” Srividhya said prosecuting both boys and girls would also contravene domestic and international child protection standards. “It would silence survivors, discourage reporting and normalise victim-blaming – the opposite of what a child-centred justice system should do.” She added that custodial sentences and institutionalisation would derail a child’s future. “We urge the government to reject such proposals, amend the law to include a peer-to-peer

“This is not protection, it is punishment disguised as morality.” Srividhya stressed that statutory rape provisions exist to remove the element of consent and protect children from being treated as though they can agree to sex. “If we start prosecuting children, we turn a protective law into a punitive one. That distorts legislative intent. Instead of safeguarding the vulnerable party, the law would be weaponised against them,” she told theSun. She urged lawmakers to include a peer-to-peer or suka sama suka defence for consensual relationships involving minors, where the age gap is three years or less, to avoid criminalisation. “Many young people in relationships are unaware that

TEMPEST AFTERMATH ... Roofing sheets and timber debris crushed several vehicles at the Seri Cempaka People’s Housing Project in Pantai Dalam after a thunderstorm tore through Kuala Lumpur on Monday evening. – BERANAMAPIC

‘Remarks by state police chief personal opinion’

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

endorsing the proposal, he said discussions with relevant stakeholders – including the Kelantan Islamic Religious Affairs Department and the Education Department – would continue to find more effective preventive measures. At the same time, the minister rebuked rights groups for what he called “selective outrage”. He said they were quick to pounce on the Kelantan police chief’s comments but were silent when police officers were harmed in the line of duty.

legal action be considered against both individuals in cases of what he termed “consensual rape”, arguing that existing laws unfairly placed the burden on the male partner alone. Saifuddin explained Mohd Yusoff’s remarks were grounded in Kelantan crime statistics which show that more than 90% of reported sexual offences in the state involved consensual acts between underage individuals. Charges are typically brought only against the male. While Saifuddin stopped short of

the whole country, then what is the issue here? Some people will agree, some will not. “But in Parliament, the proposal has already been debated, engagement has been done, amendments have been passed. “So if there is no related Act, then it does not apply. Let it be,” he told reporters after observing operations at the National Registration Department counters on the first day of free MyKad chip replacements yesterday. Mohd Yusoff had sparked off heated debate after suggesting that

PUTRAJAYA: Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has downplayed the storm over Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat’s controversial remarks on prosecuting both parties in underage consensual sex cases, stressing that it was nothing more than a personal opinion. “The figures that were mentioned in Kelantan and the way it was framed, that was his opinion. “But if giving an opinion shakes

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Rentals for commercial RVs to roll out next year

Sewerage works ongoing, Jalan Burma sinkhole under probe GEORGE TOWN: Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) Sdn Bhd has been conducting – and will continue to perform – inspections of sewerage assets across Penang Island, including along Jalan Burma, where a sinkhole appeared on Sunday. In a statement, IWK said the investigations include comprehensive closed-circuit television inspections and ground penetrating radar scanning to assess the condition of the sewer lines. IWK said this project forms part of the Malaysian Plan under the Sewerage Services Department, while upgrading and refurbishment works are being implemented through funding from the Sewerage Capital Contribution fund. “Across Penang Island, the pipeline network spans 297km and the upgrade and refurbishment works will amount to RM284.7 million, as part of ongoing efforts to address the ageing sewerage infrastructure on the island. “As for the incident along Jalan Burma, IWK will continue its investigations to confirm the root cause of the recent collapse,” according to the statement. IWK confirmed that a collapsed sewer caused the sinkhole due to a joint dislocation, which can occur unexpectedly under heavy loads and not as a result of ageing assets, as claimed. It also confirmed that the pipeline initially identified and claimed as a force main (a pressurised sewer pipe) is actually located just upstream of the sinkhole and the collapse involved a 525mm diameter gravity line, not the force main as reported. “For public safety, the affected section of the road has been temporarily closed off, with urgent repair works now entering day two and expected to take another four days to complete. “IWK is taking all necessary measures to address this promptly.” Penang Island City Council had said the sinkhole that appeared on Jalan Burma near the Jalan Transfer intersection was caused by a leak in a 300mm sewer pipe owned by IWK. – Bernama Malacca food premises awarded for cleanliness and food safety MALACCA: A total of 237 food premises in the state have received recognition under the Bersih, Selamat dan Sihat (BeSS) or Clean, Safe and Healthy initiative as of July this year, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh. He said two premises were also named as recipients at the 2024 National Clean and Safe Food Court Awards. “As a historic tourism state, the state government places hygiene and food safety as a key agenda to ensure the satisfaction and confidence of tourists. “On that basis, strengthening BeSS is given priority as one of the key initiatives to ensure the availability of safe, high quality and competitive food, particularly at tourist hotspots,” he said when officiating the Malacca 2025 World Food Safety Day, organised by the state health department yesterday. The text of his speech was read by State Human Resources, Health and Unity Committee chairman Datuk Ngwe Hee Sem. A total of 60 food entrepreneurs in the state received various certifications and recognition under the Health MInistry’s Food Safety and Quality programme. – Bernama

o New policy aims to boost self-tourism, regulate operators and expand caravan travel market: Loke

eligible for commercial licensing. “Privately owned RVs registered before December 31 this year may also be converted for commercial use, provided they are no more than 15 years old and pass technical inspections conducted by the Road Transport Department. “The ministry, together with the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry will also study the feasibility of introducing a single-window licensing system to streamline the application process,” he said. An RV is defined as a motor vehicle, semi-trailer or trailer designed to serve as both transport and temporary accommodation, typically fitted with sleeping quarters, a small kitchen, dining area and bathroom facilities. In Malaysia, RVs are classified into four categories: caravans or camper vans, motorhomes or camper buses, camper pick-ups or trucks and caravan trailers. Each unit is permanently equipped with essential living facilities such as seats and tables, sleeping space, cooking equipment and storage.

and-drive” rental vehicles in Peninsular Malaysia and as self-drive rental vehicles in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan. As of Aug 22, a total of 1,405 RVs had been registered for private use nationwide, mostly smaller caravans and camper vans. Loke said monitoring on social media platforms revealed a surge in unlicensed RV rental offers – a clear sign of market demand and the need for proper regulation. “Until now, government policy only allowed RVs to be registered under individual or private company ownership, limiting their potential contribution to the tourism industry. “The new policy is intended to encourage growth in this sector by creating a regulated licensing framework that ensures user safety, enforces standards on operators and protects the rights of renters,” he said in a statement. The policy takes effect on Jan 1, 2026. Only new RVs, whether completely knocked down (CKD) or completely built-up (CBU), will be

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Recreational vehicles (RVs) will soon hit Malaysian roads as licensed commercial rentals in a landmark policy shift set to drive self-tourism, expand the caravan travel market and curb unregulated operators cashing in on rising demand. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said RVs, previously restricted to private registration, will now be allowed for commercial use as “tour

Sick, abandoned projects worth RM121b revived PUTRAJAYA: The Sick and Abandoned Private Housing Project Task Force has recorded significant achievements since its

establishment in 2023 by reviving 1,260 private housing projects involving 150,968 units with a gross development value (GDV) of RM121.44 billion, said Housing and Local Government Deputy Minister Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu. She said for this year alone, 325 sick and delayed housing projects involving 36,922 units with a GDV of RM28.85 billion have been revived. “In addition, eight abandoned housing projects involving 1,299 housing units with a GDV of RM109.05 million were also fully resolved, either through project completion up to obtaining the certificate of completion and compliance (CCC) or via other agreed settlement methods,” she said in a statement after chairing the task force meeting yesterday. She said as of Aug 31, the task force recorded 144 private housing projects with delayed status, 345 sick projects and 108 abandoned projects nationwide. These figures, she said, reflect positive development, with sick projects reduced from 360 to 345 as of June, delayed projects falling to 144 compared with 233 previously and abandoned projects decreasing slightly from 109 to 108. Aiman Athirah said the task force’s approach has proven effective as it focuses on assessing the current status and implementing intervention measures to revive problematic projects. To ensure close monitoring, she said the task force also conducted regular site visits, with 34 projects inspected last year, while from Jan 1 to

Aiman Athirah said as of August this year, 144 private housing schemes with delayed status, 345 sick projects and 108 abandoned sites nationwide have been identified. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

affected families,” she said in a statement yesterday. Dr Zaliha was represented by Federal Territories Department (JWP) director-general Datuk Seri Noridah Abdul Rahim during the mission. The contributions included 60 mattresses, 100 pillows, 100 blankets, 60 towels and 60 pieces of sarong . Heavy equipment including portable generators, high-pressure water jets and other cleaning tools were also deployed to support the recovery efforts. – Bernama tackling problematic projects by proposing practical and effective solutions. “This effort is in line with the ministry’s target to achieve zero abandoned projects by 2030. “The ministry’s commitment is clear – to carry out stricter monitoring, strengthen strategic cooperation with stakeholders and implement appropriate interventions so that projects can be completed on schedule.” She added that this will ensure the rights and interests of homebuyers are always protected, while also enhancing public confidence in the government. – Bernama

Aug 31, a total of 26 projects have been visited. “I have personally visited 60 projects, of which 36 have obtained the CCC, while the remaining 24 projects are showing progress and are expected to be completed on schedule.” She stressed that the achievement was the result of close cooperation between the task force, local authorities, technical agencies and utility providers. They all played an important role in ensuring the smooth recovery process, she added. Aiman Athirah said the task force will continue to serve as the main platform in

Volunteers mobilised for post-flood mission in Sabah LABUAN: A total of 80 volunteers comprising staff from the Federal Territories Department, Labuan Corporation and Putrajaya Corporation have been mobilised under the Madani government machinery to assist communities affected by floods and landslides in several districts across Sabah. deployment of the government machinery to aid flood victims in the state. The initiative, known as the Federal Territories Post-Flood Mission with Sabah (Misi Pasca Banjir Wilayah Persekutuan bersama Sabah), is in its first phase in Membakut, with volunteers carrying out cleaning works at Sekolah Kebangsaan St Patrick and Tadika Pei You

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa said the mission was in response to the directive by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who ordered the immediate

“In addition, essential supplies were delivered to the Membakut district disaster operations control centre for distribution to

WEDNESDAY | SEPT 24, 2025

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Association urges stronger govt action against Meta

Civil servants to be rewarded for reporting corruption PUTRAJAYA: A total of 43 civil servants from five government departments and agencies nationwide will receive recognition and rewards for lodging complaints with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) regarding the giving or receiving of bribes. MACC Deputy Chief Commissioner (Operations) Datuk Seri Ahmad Khusairi Yahaya said all recipients have undergone integrity screening through the MACC Integrity Screening System and are eligible to receive the approved rewards totalling RM46,000. “Statistics from 2012 to 2024 show that 550 recipients have been recognised, with rewards worth RM1.14 million. “During that period, police topped the list with 386 recipients, followed by the Immigration Department with 48, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency with 25, and Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry with 15, while the rest involved other government agencies.” Earlier, Ahmad Khusairi chaired the 14th Recognition Evaluation Panel Meeting for Civil Servants Reporting the Giving or Receiving of Bribes (Series 14/1/2025) at the MACC headquarters here. According to him, the meeting was held to recognise civil servants who demonstrated high integrity by reporting corrupt activities while carrying out their entrusted duties. “This recognition not only reflects appreciation for the integrity of civil servants, but also serves as encouragement and an example for others,” he said. On Aug 19, 2010, the Special Cabinet Committee on Government Management Integrity agreed that recognition should be given to civil servants who report the giving or receiving of bribes. Following that, the chief secretary to the government issued a circular dated May 11, 2011 on the Guidelines for Civil Servants Reporting the Giving or Receiving of Bribes, which came into effect on June 1, 2011. – Bernama Duo charged with trafficking 100kg methamphetamine were charged at the Magistrate’s Court here yesterday with trafficking over 100kg of methamphetamine. Fathi Fikri A’shaari and Ahmad Syakir Khalid, both aged 36, indicated their understanding of the charges after they were read before magistrate Amira Abd Aziz. No plea was recorded as the case falls under the jurisdiction of the High Court. The businessmen are jointly charged with trafficking 103.32kg of the illegal substance at a house in Jalan Tasik Damai, Taman Tasik Impian in Sungai Besi at 11.50am on Sept 10. They are charged under Section 39B(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, which carries the death penalty or life imprisonment. If not sentenced to death, the accused shall also be liable to a minimum of 15 strokes of the cane. The court set Dec 22 for case mention to allow for the submission of the chemist’s report. Bail was denied for both accused. DPP Nurul Farhanah Arul Hisham appeared for the prosecution while Fathi Fikri and Ahmad Syakir were represented by counsels Mohd Redzuan Mohamed Yusoff and Shah Rizal Abdul Manan, respectively. – Bernama KUALA LUMPUR: Two men

o ‘Widespread exploitation of services by criminal syndicates involved in cybercrime warrants firm steps’

messenger apps. Telegram, due to its anonymity, poses significant challenges in monitoring and enforcement,” he said. He added that despite stricter registration processes on platforms, such as requiring verifiable email addresses, users find ways to remain anonymous, allowing illicit content to flourish. However, he acknowledged that Meta has made some improvements. Siraj stressed that enforcement should not rest solely with regulatory bodies, such as the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), as monitoring thousands of posts daily is unrealistic. “We cannot just blame MCMC. They are people too. Users must play a role. If you see harmful content, report it. Make it a culture,” he said, adding that community reporting could significantly enhance content moderation. He noted that such issues are not unique to Malaysia as online gambling and scams are global issues. “Even in countries such as Indonesia and China, where online gambling is strictly illegal, syndicates still target users. Malaysia often becomes a base for these operations, especially for call centres targeting foreign users. “That is why it is crucial for local governments to pressure global platforms such as Meta to comply with domestic laws. If Malaysia sets a precedent, other countries might follow. “Our goal is simple. We want a healthy, safe digital environment for Malaysians. But it takes effort from everyone, the government, the platforms, the media and most importantly, the users,” he said. On Monday, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil expressed concern over Meta’s failure to fully remove online gambling and scam content from its platforms, particularly on Facebook. He warned that if the company does not improve its content moderation, the government may consider taking further action. He said as of Friday, the Communications Ministry has submitted 168,774 takedown requests to Meta, representing 59% of all social media takedown requests. “Of these, 120,127 were related to online gambling, but only 114,665 were removed. For scams, 36,918 of 37,722 pieces of content were taken down, leaving some illegal content still visible.” Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department showed that e-commerce fraud on Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp from 2023 to August resulted in losses exceeding RM248 million.

Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

He added that Meta, which holds a Content Applications Service Provider licence under Malaysia’s Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, is legally obliged to ensure its platforms comply with local laws. He said the government must enforce this strictly, especially given Meta’s substantial influence and user base across multiple generations and demographics in Malaysia. “According to MCCA research, different Meta platforms are favoured by different age groups. Millennials gravitate towards Facebook, Gen Z prefers Instagram, while WhatsApp remains the dominant messaging app across all generations. “Threads, Meta’s X-like platform, has also emerged as a space in which harmful or suggestive content, such as provocative posts designed to lure users, is beginning to mirror the so-called dark side of X. “Our recent study in Negeri Sembilan secondary schools found TikTok and Instagram to be the dominant platforms among students while WhatsApp and Telegram lead among

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Cyber Consumer Association (MCCA) has called on the government to take stronger, more decisive action against Meta Platforms Inc for its alleged role in enabling the spread of harmful content, including online gambling, financial scams and cybercrime-related advertisements across all its platforms. Its president Siraj Jalil said this applies to major platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Threads, as the widespread exploitation of Meta’s services by criminal syndicates involved in cybercrime warrants firm action. “This is not only limited to illegal gambling advertisements, but also phishing scams, money mule recruitment, such as renting ATM cards, and unlicensed financial services as MCCA found these activities to be rampant across Meta’s platforms, often slipping past moderation systems.”

Siraj noted that enforcement issues on social media platforms are not unique to Malaysia as online gambling and scams are global issues. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Trio jailed, fined for storing Malayan tiger carcass KOTA TINGGI: Three men were yesterday sentenced by the Kota Tinggi Sessions Court to seven years’ jail and fined RM250,000 each for storing the carcass of a female Malayan tiger without a special permit. Wildlife and National Parks Department DPP Fatin Hanum Abdul Hadi said the case was the first since amendments to the Act took effect on Feb 1, 2023, and involved public interest as the Malayan tiger is facing extinction. four liver cancer and supports five children. Nazerin, who has kidney disease, said he needs to provide for his wife and four children while Nazrol, also with kidney disease, cited his recent marriage.

Hayda Faridzal said the court considered their health conditions and family responsibilities, but stressed that public interest and the status of the Malayan tiger as a national icon were overriding factors, Bernama reported. “A guilty plea cannot be regarded as an automatic discount, but it is taken into account as it saves time and costs,” she said, before sentencing them to seven years’ jail and a RM250,000 fine each, in default seven years’ jail. The trio were arrested on Sept 16 after authorities, acting on a tip-off, discovered the tiger carcass, believed to have been illegally hunted, in their vehicle during an integrated operation with the Johor wildlife department.

“The Malayan tiger population is estimated at fewer than 150, compared with about 3,000 in the 1950s. The loss of this iconic species would negatively impact the ecosystem, as well as the nation’s identity and sovereignty,” she said. She added that the Malayan tiger, featured on the national coat of arms, also symbolises courage and strength for police, the Armed Forces and Maybank. “Wildlife such as tigers are silent victims that cannot defend themselves against human greed, so severe punishments must be imposed as a deterrent,” she said. During mitigation, Shaheezam, a driver, appealed for leniency as he suffers from stage

Judge Hayda Faridzal Abu Hasan handed down the sentence on Md Shaheezam Md Salim, 49, Nazerin Tomiran, 47, and Mohamad Nazrol Tomiran, 28, after they pleaded guilty to the offence committed on Sept 16. The trio were charged with keeping the carcass in the boot of a car at a BHPetrol station in Felda Tenggaroh, Mersing at 6.10am that day. The Malayan tiger is a fully protected species under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010. They were charged under Section 70(1) of the Act, punishable under Section 70(2) and read with Section 34 of the Penal Code, which provides a fine of not less than RM250,000 and up to 15 years’ jail.

WEDNESDAY | SEPT 24, 2025

/thesuntelegram FOLLOW / Malaysian Paper

ON TELEGRAM m RAM

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Artist utilises dark surrealism as therapy

Single mother pushes clay batik beyond borders and determination, a single mother has carved a place in clay batik art and is seeking greater opportunities to bring her brand Riztiney Batik to international markets. Leveraging her past experience as a clerk at a batik factory, Rozita Harun, 53, set up her own workshop in Kampung Bukit Belimbing, Kuala Selangor and has spent 15 years in the batik industry. “I was a housewife previously, but after my divorce, I decided to build myself up,” she told Bernama at her exhibition booth during the 57th Asean Economic Ministers’ Meeting and related meetings at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre yesterday. Hailing from Kuala Kangsar, Perak, Rozita is gaining recognition for introducing the clay batik , an eco-friendly alternative to the conventional batik . “This method hardly uses any fuel and the materials used are only clay, wheat flour and even one ingredient used in baking,” she explained. Compared with the conventional method of batik printing, which uses candlewax, clay batik takes a longer time to dry. However, the process is less risky, making it especially suitable for small-scale women entrepreneurs. Aside from the batik fabric, Rozita is focusing on ready-to-wear garments, such as baju kurung Kedah, Riau and Pahang, kebaya , blouses, cardigans, shirts and blazers. Most are made with clay batik and priced between RM150 and RM350, depending on design and material, she said. She added that demand for her product has been encouraging, underscoring batik’s cultural value as a symbol of Malaysia’s diverse society. Although still operating on a small scale with limited manpower, the mother of four hopes to expand into international markets with sufficient support and logistics. Rozita said Riztiney Batik’s products have even made their way to Japan during an International Trade and Industry Ministry trade mission to Osaka, showing the export potential of Malaysian batik . She expressed gratitude to agencies such as Majlis Amanah Rakyat, Kraftangan Malaysia and the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry for their support through training, exhibitions and business guidance. – Bernama KUALA LUMPUR: With creativity

o Paintings represent personal reflections of creator’s inner world, emotions and unspoken thoughts

KLANG: At first glance, the paintings of 29-year-old artist Aiman Zamri may seem eerie, depicting ghostly figures with tangled hair, shadowed faces, piercing stares and multiple sets of eyes. Some even mistake them for images of spirits or mystical beings. But for Aiman, better known as Miman, these surreal artworks are not meant to frighten. Instead, they are personal reflections of his inner world, emotions and unspoken thoughts, expressed through art. “This has been my personal style throughout my seven years in this field. I produce about 40 works such as this every year. Some people find them unsettling, but for me, painting makes me feel emotionally stronger.” Surrealism in art blends reality with dreams, imagination or the subconscious, often producing strange, illogical or dreamlike images. For Miman, who began exploring darker surrealist themes in 2019, it has become a form of mental therapy, Bernama reported. Eyes are a recurring motif in his works, symbols of life and awareness. “Even a stone or statue looks alive when you paint eyes on it. To me, eyes are a sign that we are still here, still strong,” he explained. Among his most iconic works is “The Guardian”, inspired by the form and aura of an owl, which he interprets as a protector of emotions. Created in silence and deep focus, Miman regards the piece as a spiritual process, so personal that he still keeps it as part of his private collection.

Surrealism in art blends reality with dreams, imagination or the subconscious, often producing strange, illogical or dreamlike images. – BERNAMAPIC

Some viewers feel fear, others are moved to tears, while a few are reminded of personal memories. “A buyer once told me that my painting reminded them of a dream they had. Another said they had seen something similar before. Perhaps it is because much of my work is drawn from my subconscious,” he said. Beyond surrealism, Miman also accepts commissioned projects, such as wedding portraits and personalised requests, showing his versatility as an artist.

The fine arts diploma holder, rejecting the notion that his art stems from depression or trauma, said his paintings are shaped by a mix of emotions, such as joy, calmness, confusion and even emptiness. “I do not paint only when I am sad. Sometimes, even when I am happy, I express it in this way,” he said, noting that solitude at home provides the best environment for his creativity. The reactions to his works are often as intense as the paintings themselves.

WEDNESDAY | SEPT 24, 2025

7

S’pore firm rejects US$1b pollution damages

Hong Kong braces for super typhoon HONG KONG: The city shut down ahead of Super Typhoon Ragasa yesterday, the world’s most powerful tropical cyclone this year, with authorities urging people to stay at home and most passenger flights suspended. People piled into supermarkets as panic buying set in and residents stocked up on necessities. Windows in homes and businesses across the city were taped up to help reduce the impact of any shattered glass. Ragasa , packing hurricane-force winds of up to 220kph, is posing a “severe threat to the coast of Guangdong”, the Hong Kong Observatory said. It will maintain super typhoon intensity as it edges closer to Guangdong and as it impacts Hong Kong, mainland China and Taiwan, after sweeping through the northern Philippines on Monday. Hong Kong issued the typhoon signal 8, its third highest at 2.20pm, which urges most businesses and transport services to shut down. It warned water levels will rise about 2m along coastal areas and maximum water levels could reach four to 5m in some places. Local authorities handed out sandbags for residents to bolster their homes in low-lying areas. Chinese authorities have activated flood control measures in several southern provinces. More than 10 cities in Guangdong, including technology hub Shenzhen and coastal city Zhuhai had suspended work, transport services and schools due to warnings of storm surges and high waves. Residents in the world’s largest gambling hub of Macau also braced for significant impact. All its casinos will be forced to shut in the evening. Taiwan logged almost 60cm of rainfall in its mountainous east and reported 25 people injured, while transport disruptions continued with 273 flights cancelled yesterday. – Reuters

liability. This judgment undermines this limitation of liability,” he said. “Any payment towards the judgment could set a dangerous precedent for how maritime incidents will be resolved in the future.” Yoskovitz said the absence of limitations could lead to higher insurance premiums, which would be ultimately passed on to consumers. The chief executive again apologised for the incident, saying the company recognised the disaster and was trying to make amends. He said X-Press Feeders had already spent US$170 million to remove the wreck, clean up the seabed and beaches, and compensate affected fishermen. “We are not trying to hide ... We are willing to pay more, but it has to be under certain marine conventions and an amount that is full and final and then it can be settled, and we can move on. “But to live under this hanging guillotine – it is simply impossible to operate like this.” In Colombo, Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court has scheduled a hearing tomorrow on the implementation of its decision. One of the petitioners who sought compensation has called for further research to determine the full extent of the damage to the island’s marine ecosystems. “If you visit the coastlines today, there is nothing visible in terms of plastic pollution. A major clean-up took place soon after the X-Press Pearl incident, but the effects will be felt for a long time,” said Hemantha Withanage from the Centre for Environmental Justice. It remains unclear how Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court could enforce its decision. However, in its 361-page decision in July, the court ordered the police and the state prosecutor to initiate criminal proceedings for

SINGAPORE: A shipping company told AFP yesterday it will refuse to pay Sri Lankan court ordered damages of US$1 billion (RM4.19 billion) for causing that country’s worst case of environmental pollution. X-Press Feeders chief executive Shmuel Yoskovitz said he believed paying would have wide-ranging implications on global shipping and “set a dangerous precedent”. The company operated the MV X-Press Pearl that sank off Colombo Port in June 2021 after a fire, believed caused by a nitric acid leak, that raged for nearly two weeks. Its cargo included 81 containers of hazardous goods, including acids and lead ingots, and hundreds of tonnes of plastic pellets. The ship was refused permission by ports in Qatar and India to offload the leaking nitric acid before it arrived in Sri Lankan waters. Tonnes of microplastic granules from the ship inundated an 80km stretch of beach along Sri Lanka’s western coast. Fishing was prohibited for months. Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court in July ordered the company to pay Colombo an “initial” US$1 billion in damages within a year, with the first tranche of US$250 million to be paid yesterday. It also ordered the company “to make such other and further payments” in the future as the court may direct. Yoskovitz rejected the open-ended nature of the penalty. “We are not paying because the whole base of maritime trade is based on the limitation of o J‘ udgment undermines limitation of liability’ committed during “clearance” operations of lower-level alleged drug users or pushers. These took place across the Philippines between 2016 and 2018, the prosecution alleged. “The actual scale of victimisation during the charged period was significantly greater, as reflected in the widespread nature of the attack,” said the ICC prosecutors. “The attack included thousands of killings, which were perpetrated consistently throughout the charged period,” they alleged. The charges against Duterte stem from his years-long campaign against drug users and dealers that rights groups said killed thousands. The arrest warrant issued for Duterte on March 7 contained one charge of crimes against humanity relating to 43 alleged murders. The prosecutors’ charges came on the eve of what was scheduled to be Duterte’s appearance at the ICC to hear the accusations against him. However, that sitting was postponed as the court weighs whether Duterte is fit to hear the charges. His lawyer Nicholas Kaufman has said his client is not able to stand trial “as a result of cognitive impairment in multiple domains”. Kaufman has urged the ICC to postpone proceedings against Duterte indefinitely. Duterte was arrested in Manila on March 11, flown to the Netherlands that same night and has been held at the ICC’s detention unit at Scheveningen Prison since. At his initial hearing, he followed by video link, appearing dazed and frail, barely speaking. – AFP

Yoskovitz ... ‘We are willing to pay more, but it has to be under certain marine conventions and an amount that is full and final and then it can be settled, and we can move on’. – AFPPIC non-compliance if the parties were present in Sri Lanka. Yoskovitz expressed concern over the ship’s Russian captain, Vitaly Tyutkalo, who has been banned from leaving Sri Lanka, as well as the company’s third-party agents. The firm had offered to pay a fine for the skipper’s release but this was refused. X-Press Feeders obtained an order from London’s Admiralty Court in July 2023, limiting its liability to a maximum of US$25 million, but Sri Lanka has challenged that. The government also filed a lawsuit against the ship’s owners in the Singapore International Commercial Court. But that has been stayed pending the result of the case in London, with a pre-trial hearing expected next May. – AFP

ICC prosecutors charge Duterte THE HAGUE: International Criminal Court prosecutors have charged former Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte with three counts of crimes against humanity, alleging his involvement in at least 76 murders as part of his “war on drugs”.

A heavily redacted charge sheet dated July 4 but only made public on Monday lays out the accusations against the 80-year-old former leader, sitting in ICC detention in The Hague. The first count concerns his alleged involvement as a co-perpetrator in 19 murders carried out between 2013 and 2016 while Duterte was mayor of Davao City. The second count relates to 14 murders of so-called “High Value Targets” in 2016 and 2017 when Duterte was president. And the third charge is about 43 murders

BULL RUN ... Buffaloes racing down a road on Monday in Sithor village, Kandal province, Cambodia on the second day of the Pchum Ben festival, which honours ancestors. – REUTERSPIC

Duterte at a senate probe last year. – AFPPIC