30/09/2025

Bid to smuggle protected wildlife through KLIA foiled One gibbon, two cuscuses

TUESDAY SEPT 30, 2025

RM1

Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY Report on — page 5 Jaw-dropping shift Report on h page 3 SCAN ME No. 8929 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) Claims that passing grade for school assessments lowered to 20% under Ujian Akhir Sesi Akademik rattle parents and educators, with some warning such threshold could affect students’ motivation and learning habits. seized from passenger waiting to board flight to Mumbai.

A lower pass mark, combined with automatic progression, risks eroding the sense of competition that once motivated students. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

RM307m integrated terminal in Gombak expected to sharpen connectivity between nation’s western and eastern corridors while fuelling regional economic growth. New transport hub Klang Valley’s gateway to East Coast

Animal-assisted therapy proven to calm nerves, lift moods and help people claw their way out of trauma: Expert Affixing the missing piece in mental health puzzle

Report on — page 2

Report on — page 4

TUESDAY | SEPT 30, 2025

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New transport hub dubbed ‘gateway’ to East Coast

Cybercrime clean-up draining resources: Ministry KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s fight against cybercrime is being dragged down by the sheer volume of illicit online ads, with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) warning that the clean-up has become a colossal drain on resources. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said 150,000 scam and gambling ads were detected on Facebook in the past nine months. Each takedown requires around 30 minutes, translating into the equivalent of a year’s working hours every month spent just to police the platform. “It is a tremendous waste of resources,” he said, stressing that responsibility should not fall solely on regulators. To address the problem, MCMC will meet major platforms in Singapore next week to push for electronic Know Your Customer checks and faster ad removals. The requirement would compel users to verify their identity with a MyKad, passport or the upcoming MyDigital ID, making it harder for anonymous criminals to operate. Fahmi said the government will no longer rely on voluntary cooperation, and companies that fail to act decisively against harmful content would face legal consequences. The new Online Safety Act 2025, expected to come into force by year-end, would oblige platforms to swiftly remove scam ads, gambling promotions, drug sales and impersonation content or face penalties. Enforcement would be monitored by a compliance committee under the law minister. Fahmi noted that cybercriminals are exploiting Malaysia’s high-speed, low-cost internet to spread illicit content, from scams to narcotics and gambling. Impersonation scams are also on the rise, with public figures targeted to trick Malaysians into buying fake products. A high-profile case is ophthalmologist Prof Dr Muhaya Mohamad, whose name and photo have been misused for over two years to market bogus “miracle” eye drops and other remedies. “This kind of fraud harms Malaysians who place their trust in these personalities,” said Fahmi. He also urged Meta to take stronger action. He was speaking after launching the 29th Public Service Psychology Conference at Angkasapuri yesterday. The conference carried the theme “AI and Personal Identity: Strengthening Self-Reliance Amid the Infodemic”. Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will soon roll out the Non-Employment Injury Scheme to ensure workers remain protected even beyond office hours, announced Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday. He said the scheme reflects a recognition that the pressures of modern work do not end at the factory gate or office door. “In an age of flexible and remote arrangements, this reform would align protection with the realities of how people live and work today. “It would extend coverage around the clock, recognising that accidents and injuries do not keep to a

rubbish is still thrown here and there, it undermines everything. When we build something this big, it cannot become another monument. It must serve the people and it must reflect our values, namely cleanliness, order and pride in our shared spaces.” He also flagged the terminal’s location next to the upcoming East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) station as a catalyst for growth in Kelantan, Pahang and beyond. “Integrated hubs such as this must go beyond transport. They should provide access to markets, housing, health, education and even government services,” he said. Anwar said unlike some countries that charge private vehicles to enter city centres, Malaysia is not headed down that road, at least not yet. “Our public transport infrastructure is still being developed and we do not want to burden the people,” he said. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said TBG was designed as a 24-hour integrated hub with 36 bus bays, more than 1,000 parking spaces, food courts, retail outlets, prayer rooms, waiting areas and direct walkalator access to the ECRL station. Once fully operational, the terminal is expected to handle tens of thousands of passengers daily, but for now, express bus operators have not been compelled to relocate their East Coast routes. He said the shift would be gradual to avoid teething problems. Developed under the build-lease-maintain- operate-transfer model, TBG would be managed by concessionaire Tegas for 25 years before being handed back to the government. “We want this terminal to be more than a transport facility. It must be a vibrant hub, with safety, cleanliness, customer service and proper maintenance as top priorities,” said Loke. He added that surrounding commercial and residential projects would complement the terminal, consistent with the government’s Transit-Oriented Development strategy. He also suggested bringing back the Urban Transformation Centre concept, with Immigration, NRD and RTD counters right inside the terminal, to boost convenience for the public. “Imagine being able to renew your passport or MyKad with direct LRT access, without parking hassles,” he said, noting that Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has already agreed in principle. Delayed for nearly a decade, the project is finally ready for passengers. With its strategic position as the East Coast’s front door to the Klang Valley, TBG is expected to sharpen connectivity between the nation’s western and eastern corridors while fuelling regional economic growth.

o Facility represents federal-state teamwork and private-sector partnership: PM

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who launched the RM307.4 million hub today, said the facility is more than just bricks and mortar as it also represents federal-state teamwork and private-sector partnership. However, he warned that its success hinges on Malaysians. “With facilities this beautiful and first-class in quality, what is important now is our culture. If

GOMBAK: The newly opened Terminal Bersepadu Gombak (TBG) is being billed as the Klang Valley’s “gateway” to the East Coast, a long-delayed project now poised to do for Gombak what Terminal Bersepadu Selatan did for Bandar Tasik Selatan.

Anwar (right) and Loke at an event showcasing the facilities available at the Gombak Integrated Terminal. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Extended injury scheme for workers to roll out soon

Association president Datuk Seri Dr Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed were also in attendance. Earlier this month, Sim said the Human Resources Ministry is drafting amendments to the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969 to provide 24-hour protection for employees under the Social Security Organisation. Anwar also stressed that Malaysia is embedding digital systems to deliver protection more effectively and ensure no community, however remote, is left behind. “Progress is ongoing, although far from perfect. But the conviction that guides us is clear, true prosperity is

timetable,” he said in his keynote address at the World Social Security Forum here. Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong, Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri and Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, Deputy Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad and International Social Security

extending security to those who have long stood outside the net, including informal workers, homemakers and gig riders. Themed “Shaping Social Security For A World In Transition”, the five-day forum gathers more than 1,500 participants from over 135 countries to discuss a global roadmap for an inclusive, sustainable and future-ready social security system. The forum would culminate in the World Social Security Summit on Friday, during which leaders are expected to set the tone for the next decade of global social security. – Bernama

not measured by the size of our skyscrapers or GDP but by the dignity with which ordinary citizens live their daily lives,” he said. He underlined that social protection is not merely a bureaucratic system of benefits, but a moral infrastructure. “Earlier civilisations understood this. In the Islamic tradition, the baitulmal ensured wealth served the poor, the widowed, the orphaned and the elderly. That legacy of justice and solidarity continues to inspire us.” Anwar said guided by these principles, Malaysia is reshaping its social protection landscape by

TUESDAY | SEPT 30, 2025

3 Concerns mount over lower passing mark in final exams

Reduced benchmark may normalise mediocrity, warns educator

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Setting the passing mark for school examinations at just 20% could have serious consequences on students’ motivation, study habits and long-term learning outcomes, warns University of Nottingham Malaysia associate professor Dr Siti Khadijah Zainal Badri. Siti Khadijah, from the university’s Institute of Work, Organisation and Wellbeing, said a low threshold risks creating a false sense of achievement. “It encourages complacency. Students may settle for the bare minimum, which stunts growth and makes learning less rewarding.” She noted that the psychological effects could differ across groups. “High performers may become careless because passing feels too easy, while weaker students may lack the incentive to push themselves. A 20% pass mark applied across all subjects is unlikely to encourage meaningful learning, especially without considering subject complexity.” She also warned of the danger of moving students forward without mastery. “Those who progress without a strong foundation will struggle with advanced concepts. Emotionally, we may see students who are less resilient and more distressed when faced with tougher academic challenges, particularly if they’ve been shielded from failure too early.” Clear grading, she added, plays a vital role in preparing students for future challenges. “Transparent benchmarks help students identify strengths and weaknesses. They support the growth of competitive, capable individuals who can contribute effectively to society.” She stressed that the impact goes beyond exams to shape lifelong attitudes towards learning. “When students believe minimal effort is enough, curiosity, perseverance and self-directed learning decline. These are mindsets that, once lost, are difficult to rebuild later in life.” She said any move to lower the bar must be justified and communicated carefully. “Implementing a low pass rate without clear rationale undermines students’ approach to learning. Lack of challenge fosters a ‘minimal effort’ culture, which harms growth, resilience and motivation.” – By HARITH KAMAL

o Parents and teachers warn 20% threshold could undermine students’ motivation, dilute learning standards and breed complacency in classroom

said, noting that without UPSR or PT3, pressure only arrives with SPM in Form Five. He said automatic progression combined with a lower pass mark had eroded the sense of competition that once motivated students. “Previously, ‘D’ meant ‘satisfactory.’ Now there’s an E for ‘minimum achievement.’ That means even those who score 20% feel safe because they’ve technically passed.” The teacher warned this redefinition risks giving children a false sense of security. “Exams are not just about passing or failing – they provide milestones that push students to aim higher. If students keep settling for an E, what’s the point of studying?” He added that the absence of challenge could damage mindsets in the long run. “If that’s missing for too long, it affects how they view effort and discipline. And in the end, that hurts them not only in school, but in life as well.”

PETALING JAYA: Parents and educators have raised concern over claims that the passing grade for school assessments has been lowered to 20% under the Ujian Akhir Sesi Akademik (Uasa), with some warning that such a threshold could affect students’ motivation and learning habits. Introduced in 2022, Uasa is the year-end assessment for pupils in Standards Four to Six and students in Forms One to Three. It replaced centralised exams such as the Ujian Pencapaian Sekolah Rendah (UPSR) and Pentaksiran Tingkatan 3 (PT3), which were abolished to ease exam-centred learning. But recent claims that the passing threshold has been slashed from 40% to 20% have rattled parents. A mother who wished to be known only as Lina said she was stunned to hear of the change during a chat with her son’s teachers. Her concern deepened when her son proudly declared that

“When you tell a child they only need 20% to pass, you’re essentially giving them a licence to be lazy. Why study hard when you can scrape by, by answering a few questions?” She urged the Education Ministry to restore the 40% benchmark. “Our children deserve better. Parents have a right to demand a system that truly prepares them for success.” Educators are also uneasy. A young teacher who began his career this year said casual chats with students revealed a worrying lack of urgency. “Their answer was simple: because there are no exams,” he

scoring 43% put him well above the “new” passing line. “They don’t feel the need to study harder, nor do they see scoring below 50% as alarming. My biggest fear is that when they step into the real world, my son won’t be able to cope or compete with others who learnt early on the value of hard work.” Another parent with two children described the policy as “deeply troubling”. “It sends the wrong message, one that undermines the purpose of education and sets our children up for mediocrity.” She argued that learning should be about striving for excellence, not coasting on the bare minimum.

Educators warned lowering passing grade gives children false sense of security, stressing that exams provide milestones that push students to aim higher. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

Explain reasons for revised grading, academic urges ministry PETALING JAYA: The real issue behind claims that the passing grade in the Uasa has been lowered to 20% is not the number itself but the lack of transparency and dialogue with parents, said Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia education expert Dr Anuar Ahmad. He said even if the threshold is lowered, it can be acceptable if there is a clear explanation. real skills.” He stressed that grades should always reflect competency. “An A should mean mastery of literacy and numeracy. If grades are lowered without matching standards, students may pass without actually being prepared for the next level.” standardised exams. “UPSR, PMR, PT3 and SPM were checkpoints to measure capability nationwide. We want to know if students in rural Sarawak, for example, are performing at the same level as those in urban centres.

Singon said the matter had not been formally discussed with the ministry. But he noted the ministry was focused on other urgent issues and stressed that students scoring below 40% clearly need close attention from teachers and parents. He added that family support remains key to driving motivation. “Parents worrying about their children’s lack of drive is part of the challenge. Neglect in family education leaves children drifting in their own world. They need guidance from the beginning to master literacy, numeracy, religion and manners,” he said. – By HARITH KAMAL

“If the Education Ministry has reduced the pass mark to 20%, parents need to know whether it is because the syllabus is tougher or because the ministry wants to encourage motivation.” But he warned that a pass mark set too low could backfire. “If students think 20% is enough, some may not take studying seriously. Education is about building discipline, focus and resilience. A passing grade that’s too low risks students settling for the minimum without developing

“Exams help identify which schools or regions are struggling so support can be channelled effectively. They ensure no student is left behind.” Last December, the National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) urged the ministry to address parents’ concerns circulating online about the alleged 20% pass mark. NUTP secretary-general Fouzi

He noted that while no formal study has proven the link, there appears to be a correlation between grade standards and student mindset. “Over time, constantly lowering the bar may affect the quality of learning. It could normalise mediocrity.” Anuar also defended the role of

He said poor communication fuels suspicion and weakens trust in the system. “When parents are not informed, they make assumptions. Schools, the ministry and parents must engage more openly so everyone understands the reasons for any changes,” he told theSun .

TUESDAY | SEPT 30, 2025

/thesuntelegram FOLLOW / Malaysian Paper

ON TELEGRAM m RAM

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Educator advocates for animal-assisted therapy

Association suggests using strays in new treatment PETALING JAYA: Stray cats and dogs may one day swap back alleys for hospital corridors if Malaysia embraces animal-assisted therapy (AAT), said Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar Malaysia president Kalaivanan Ravichandran. He urged the Health Ministry to treat AAT as a serious complementary option for physical and mental health. He proposed starting small with pilot projects in hospitals and rehabilitation centres, working alongside NGOs and certified therapy-animal handlers. “The goal is not to replace medical care, but to enrich it with the emotional and psychological benefits that animals naturally bring,” he said, adding that these pilots could be studied by the ministry before expanding AAT into physiotherapy, mental-health support and elder-care rehabilitation. However, Kalaivanan said for hospitals and NGOs to buy in, the government must first set rules. “Formal recognition from the Health Ministry is essential. We need guidelines on animal welfare, handler training and hygiene. Policies that support certification and professional training of therapy teams, both human and animal, would make AAT credible and sustainable.” He said universities and research institutes should also step up to gather local data, adding that clinical studies that track stress levels, recovery times and patient wellbeing could make a strong case to policymakers and funders. “Research could also examine how therapy animals impact different groups, such as children with autism, stroke patients or seniors in elder care. Solid local evidence is what turns AAT from a ‘feel good’ concept into an evidence-based intervention,” said Kalaivanan. He believes the benefits could even extend behind prison walls. “AAT calms inmates, reduces stress and teaches empathy and responsibility. With NGO partnerships, it could give them new skills and a better shot at rebuilding their lives. Other countries are already seeing results and there is no reason Malaysia cannot as well.” He called for action on three fronts, namely government endorsement, funding and guidelines; openness from medical professionals to collaborate with NGOs; and a shift in public perception. “Community awareness is key. AAT only works when people see animals as partners in healing,” he said. One of the association’s boldest ideas is to involve strays in the process. “This is very close to our heart. Stray animals, when given care, training and love, could become excellent therapy companions. They are often resilient and gentle by nature,” said Kalaivanan. “Rehabilitating strays into therapy animals solves two issues at once, namely animal homelessness and the need for compassionate health interventions. It is a beautiful, practical solution.” He emphasised that animals should not be seen merely as mouths to feed or problems to manage. “They could be healers, teachers and companions. At the association, we believe every stray deserves dignity and purpose. If we open our hearts to them, they could open doors to better mental health, stronger communities and a kinder Malaysia. “Let us heal together, humans and animals, side by side.” – By KIRTINEE RAMESH

o ‘Healing sometimes comes from silent

meaning practice is patchy at best. Trained therapists and handlers are also thin on the ground. On top of that, there is the issue of cultural and religious sensitivity. “Attitudes towards animals, particularly dogs, differ across our multicultural society,” she said. Cats, rabbits or horses could be viable substitutes to win wider acceptance. Funding is another sticky point, with healthcare institutions often favouring established, conventional interventions over innovative ones. However, Siti Aisyah expressed belief that momentum is building. She envisions universities, hospitals and community centres leading with small-scale pilots to create local evidence. She said partnerships between psychology and veterinary departments could then lay the foundation for a Malaysian model of AAT. “With the right advocacy, Malaysia could even position itself as a regional leader in culturally adaptive AAT,” she said. For her, the message is simple: healing is not always about prescriptions and pep talks. Sometimes, it is about a quiet purr, a steady gaze or a furry presence at your side, proof that science and compassion could walk paw-in-hand to transform mental healthcare. • See also Page 10 for Marinated Makcik’s commentary on animal therapy.

post-traumatic stress. “The presence of an animal offers unconditional acceptance. Rather than replacing psychotherapy or psychiatric care, AAT amplifies it. Patients feel safer, more motivated and more willing to engage. “That is powerful for those struggling with loneliness, trauma recovery or social anxiety.” The science also backs it up. Time with animals raises oxytocin, the “bonding hormone”, along with serotonin and dopamine, the mood stabilisers. Cortisol, the stress hormone, drops. Blood pressure falls. Heart rates steady. And the brain’s reward and attachment centres light up, boosting resilience and emotional control. Siti Aisyah added that animals make excellent “social icebreakers”, easing people into conversations and trust-building without awkward silences. She said Malaysia’s current shift towards holistic wellbeing offers the perfect opening, adding that the Malaysia Madani framework, with its emphasis on inclusive health services, could provide a home for AAT if policymakers are bold enough. Hospitals, rehab centres, universities and special-needs schools could roll out pilot programmes to diversify therapy and make mental health treatment less clinical and more human. But the road is not clear. Malaysia has no official guidelines or accreditation for AAT,

companionship that offers empathy without judgement’

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) could be the missing piece in Malaysia’s mental health puzzle, if only policy and public support catch up with the science, said Universiti Teknologi Malaysia psychology professor Prof Dr Siti Aisyah Panatik. “Healing does not always come from medicine or words alone. Sometimes, it comes from the silent companionship of another living being who offers empathy without judgement,” she said. Globally, AAT has been proven to calm nerves, lift moods and help people claw their way out of trauma. Siti Aisyah argued that Malaysia is just as ripe for such an approach. From dogs and cats to horses and even rabbits, therapy animals are showing results elsewhere in reducing anxiety, depression and

Siti Aisyah said partnerships between psychology and veterinary departments could lay the foundation for a Malaysian model of AAT. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

Operation to address livestock-caused road crashes GUA MUSANG: Four key locations in this district have been identified as hotspots for road collisions involving livestock, prompting the Gua Musang District Council to launch its ongoing Op Haiwan Rayau. He said the operation is aimed at reducing the risk of crashes caused by stray animals on main roads and in Felda settlements.

to comply may face a fine of up to RM1,000 while court penalties could reach RM2,000 or a year’s jail. Gua Musang police chief Supt Sik Choon Foo said 201 accidents involving animals have been recorded in the district this year. “Of the total, 131 cases involved livestock while 119 collisions occurred at the identified hotspots,” he said. – Bernama

“From January to September, 15 cows and four goats were caught. Apart from enforcement, announcements were also made at suraus and mosques to remind farmers not to let their animals roam freely,” he said on Sunday. Mohd Roshdi said livestock owners who fail

Council president Mohd Roshdi Ismail said the hotspots are along Jalan Gua Musang–Kuala Krai, Felda Chiku 3, Jalan Felda Chiku 5 and Felda Chiku 7.

TUESDAY | SEPT 30, 2025

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Attempt to smuggle wildlife worth RM20,000 foiled

MP to pay less damages in defamation suit PUTRAJAYA: Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng has been ordered to pay RM75,000 instead of the RM2 million in damages originally awarded to MonSpace (M) Sdn Bhd and its founder Datuk Seri Jessy Lai Cha Suang for defamation. However, a three-member bench of the Court of Appeal comprising Judges Datuk Ahmad Zaidi Ibrahim, Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah and Datuk Faizah Jamaludin, in a unanimous decision, upheld the High Court’s finding that Lim had defamed both parties. Sequerah, when delivering the decision yesterday, said the RM2 million in damages imposed by the Kuala Lumpur High Court was excessive. The appeals court also reduced the costs awarded from RM250,000 to RM50,000, Bernama reported. On March 16, 2023, the High Court had ordered Lim to pay RM2 million to the e-commerce company and Lai after ruling in favour of their defamation suit. Lim filed an appeal on the same day. Cops take statements in sewage pit case SEREMBAN: Police have recorded statements from nine individuals so far in connection with the tragic death of a pupil who fell into a sewage pit at a school in Lenggeng, Nilai over the weekend. Negeri Sembilan police chief Datuk Alzafny Ahmad said those questioned included the complainant, teachers and pupils from the school. “We will also record four more statements from representatives of the Public Works Department, Indah Water Konsortium Sdn Bhd and the National Water Services Commission. “The investigation is being carried out under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001 (Act 611). We urge the public not to speculate, as it may disrupt the process.” Alzafny confirmed there was no CCTV footage at the scene. On Sunday, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the ministry, together with the Negeri Sembilan Education Department, was fully responsible for conducting a thorough investigation. She gave an assurance a report would be submitted soon to determine further action and prevent similar incidents in the future. – Bernama

o Authorities intercept local with three animals concealed in luggage

Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to curb the trade in endangered species. “This operation reflects our commitment to preventing KLIA from being exploited as a gateway for cross-border wildlife crime.” The latest arrest adds to a troubling pattern. Between 2024 and September 2025, authorities seized more than RM6.18 million worth of endangered wildlife in just 18 cases at KLIA, involving over 5,000 live animals. Wildlife and National Parks Department director-general Datuk Abdul Kadir Abu Hashim said investigations show international syndicates frequently use paid couriers, known as “mules”, to hide reptiles, birds and primates inside checked baggage, offering up to RM1,000 per trip along with travel and lodging. India has emerged as the primary destination before the animals are funnelled to markets as far as China. Among the species recovered in past cases are red-eared sliders, African spurred tortoises, pig-nose turtles, green iguanas, green tree pythons, Asian koels, siamangs and white-handed gibbons. In case in March 2025, three baby siamang gibbons were found dead during an attempt to smuggle them to Chennai. Despite tighter baggage checks, K9 patrols and joint operations with Interpol and the World Customs Organisation, the department acknowledges KLIA’s high passenger traffic and strategic location make it a high-risk transit hub. Authorities continue to urge the public to report suspicious activity via the department’s hotline or website, warning that anyone involved faces prosecution under Malaysia’s wildlife protection laws. driver has been remanded under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for reckless driving causing death. He faces five to 10 years in jail, a fine of up to RM50,000 and a licence suspension of at least five years. Police have also recorded statements from the lorry owner. The Malaysian Highway Authority extended condolences to the family and said it would work with highway concessionaire SILK to support victims’ families. It also reminded motorists to slow down at toll plazas and observe safety signs.

at 8.10pm. A search revealed one suspected gibbon and two suspected cuscuses concealed in his bags. The man was arrested and taken to the Aeropolis police station for questioning. He is being investigated under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 (Act 716) and the International Trade in Endangered Species Act 2008 (Act 686). The seized animals have since been handed to the wildlife department for veterinary checks and further action. Officials said the bust highlights

International (KLIA), underscoring the airport’s status as a prime target for international traffickers. In a joint operation on Monday evening, officers from the Border Control and Protection Agency, the Wildlife and National Parks Department and KLIA Auxiliary Police intercepted a 46-year-old Malaysian man at Terminal 1. He was preparing to board Malaysia Airlines flight MH194 bound for Mumbai when enforcement personnel flagged his luggage for inspection at Airport

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Authorities have foiled an attempt to smuggle protected wildlife worth about RM20,000 through the KL

A search revealed one suspected gibbon and two suspected cuscuses concealed in bags belonging the suspect. – PIC COURTESY OF BORDER CONTROL AND PROTECTIONAGENCY

Toddler killed in toll crash not in child seat: Transport minister

KUALA LUMPUR: Transport Minister Anthony Loke confimed the 12-month-old toddler killed in a four vehicle crash at the Bukit Kajang Toll Plaza on Saturday was not secured in a child seat. “We cross-checked with police and it was confirmed that the child was not secured in a child seat at the time of the accident. As a result, the baby was ejected from the vehicle,” he said after the launch of Ű BY HARITH KAMAL AND KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

adding that transport firms cannot rely only on mandatory six-month inspections. “In this case, the braking system clearly failed. Companies cannot wait for scheduled checks. They must maintain their vehicles regularly.” He also reminded parents that child restraint seats are essential. “At the very least, a child seat provides an extra layer of protection that could save lives. This case shows how the absence of one puts children at far greater risk.” Kajang police chief ACP Naazron Abdul Yusof said the 42-year-old lorry

the Terminal Bersepadu Gombak yesterday. The crash at 10.50am on Saturday involved a lorry carrying scrap, a vehicle belonging to the Public Works Department and two other vehicles. The Selangor Fire and Rescue Department said the toddler was found trapped under one of the vehicles and pronounced dead at the scene. Eight others were injured. Police said the lorry driver jumped from his vehicle, claiming brake failure, before it rammed into the three cars. Loke said the case was a tragedy,

Man dies while sending younger sister to university IPOH: A man died on Sunday while sending his younger sister to register as a new student at Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (Upsi) in Tanjong Malim. university, lost consciousness while driving near the Sungai Besi toll plaza from Seremban en route to Tanjong Malim. another sister travelling with them escaped unhurt.” Seremban and laid to rest at the Forest High Muslim Cemetery, attended by family members, friends and former university acquaintances. Upsi deputy vice-chancellor

“Our deepest sympathies go out to the family of Nik Mohamad Syahrul. Upsi not only prioritises academic excellence but also cares deeply for student welfare and emotional well-being. “This tragedy has left sorrow not only with the family but also within the Upsi community.” – Bernama

Nik Mohamad Syahrul was pronounced dead upon arrival at Serdang Hospital. An autopsy confirmed the cause of death as a sudden cardiac arrest, with no prior symptoms. His body was brought back to

“At that moment, his sister Nik Nur Maisarah, 18, managed to hold the steering wheel to prevent their car from crashing into the toll plaza. Although the vehicle skidded, she and

(Student Affairs and Alumni) Prof Dr Norkhalid Salimin, who visited the family, conveyed the university’s condolences.

Upsi said in a statement the incident happened around 6.30am when Nik Mohamad Syahrul Azzim Nik Yusoff, 29, an alumnus of the

TUESDAY | SEPT 30, 2025

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Gotong-royong event sets new records

SEREMBAN: The Housing and Local Government Ministry entered the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) twice in a single day during the Hari Cuci Malaysia 2025 event in Port Dickson on Saturday. Its minister Nga Kor Ming said the two feats were the “Largest Gotong-Royong Participation”, involving 100,817 volunteers nationwide and the “Most Used Cooking Oil Collected in a Day”, totalling 27,679.31kg and worth RM79,684.56, Bernama reported. “This achievement surpasses last year’s gotong-royong record of 58,007 participants. At the same time, the ministry set a fresh benchmark by gathering the most used cooking oil, collected from 10 states; Johor, Kedah, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Selangor, Terengganu and Kuala Lumpur.” The MBOR certificate was presented to the ministry’s deputy secretary-general (management and development) Datuk Mohd Zamri Mat Zain by MBOR representative Siti Hajar Johor on Sunday, which coincided with World Cleanup Day, a global movement to promote environmental care. Nga said the event also saw the collection of 6,462 metric tonnes of solid waste nationwide, including discarded plastic, garden waste, wood, paper, textiles and other materials. He added that the campaign was not only about breaking records but also about showcasing national unity. o Activity also resulted in 6,400 metric tonnes of solid waste collected nationwide, says minister

Nga posing with a group of volunteers at the event. – BERNAMAPIC

The effort drew participation from government agencies, local councils, schools, community groups, cleaning companies, housing developers such as PR1MA and SPNB, industry associations, private firms and NGOs.

environmental sustainability in line with aspirations for a cleaner, greener future. The programme, part of the government’s national cleanliness agenda, rallied thousands of volunteers from all walks of life to take part in cleaning and recycling activities.

“It reflects a shared commitment to cleanliness for the well-being of current and future generations.” He also said the record-setting effort underlined Malaysia’s commitment to building a culture of cleanliness and

Port Dickson shellfish safe for consumption: Fisheries Dept SEREMBAN: Mussels and other shellfish from the waters off Port Dickson are now safe to eat, after biotoxin levels in samples taken on Sept 17 were found to be below 800 parts per billion (ppb). Pasir Panjang have been allowed to resume collection and harvesting activities with immediate effect. “Monitoring and test results on mussel samples from the area have consistently shown readings of less than 800 ppb for nearly four consecutive weeks. Therefore, the shellfish are safe for consumption.”

Kasim said the ban remained in place until monitoring was completed, during which the public was advised against consuming shellfish from the affected area to avoid the risk of food poisoning. He added that members of the public who still have shellfish harvested during the prohibition period are advised to dispose of them and not consume them. – Bernama

“This is based on the findings of the Main Committee on Harmful Algal Bloom Cases, which confirmed that the level of paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) toxin in mussel samples taken on Sept 17 was below the 800 ppb threshold.

On Aug 15, the department issued a ban on the collection and harvesting of shellfish in Port Dickson after mussel samples were found to contain PSP toxin levels above the limit.

Negeri Sembilan Fisheries Department director Kasim Tawe said mussel farmers using piling and raft systems in the waters stretching from Sungai Sekawang to Kampung Telok in

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Typhoon batters Vietnam coast

decision to deny him entry was “political, although I am unsure whether external forces, such as the PRC, are involved, directly or indirectly”, referring to China by the initials of its formal name. Law was one of the student leaders of the 2014 Umbrella Movement in Hong Kong, which Chinese officials saw as a challenge to their rule. He has lived in exile in Britain and the United States since fleeing Hong Kong after Beijing imposed a national security law on the territory. Singapore has refused entry to foreign activists in the past, saying the country cannot be used as a platform for political activities. – AFP kitchens in the programme, 40 had been closed for not meeting standards. The programme has also raised concerns that it may not be fiscally sustainable. A budget of 335 trillion rupiah (RM84 billion) has been allotted for next year, triple the estimated spending of 99 trillion rupiah for this year. Underscoring the sensitivity of the issue, Prabowo’s office temporarily revoked a palace reporting credential for a reporter over the weekend after she asked Prabowo how he planned to deal with the food poisoning cases. – Reuters authorities reported. Among those unaccounted for were nine people whose fishing boats were lost at sea on Sunday night after their vessels were unmoored during strong winds and currents, police said. More than 53,000 people were evacuated to schools and medical centres converted into temporary shelters ahead of Bualoi hitting Vietnam, the Environment Ministry said. Four domestic airports and part of the national highway were closed yesterday. More than 180 flights have been cancelled or delayed, airport authorities said. Parts of Nghe An and the steel producing central province of Ha Tinh were without power, and schools were closed in affected regions. Since making landfall in Vietnam, Bualoi has weakened as it moves towards neighbouring Laos. The storm battered small islands in central Philippines last week, killing at least 11 people and forcing 400,000 to evacuate. In Vietnam, 175 people were killed or went missing due to natural disasters from January to August this year, the General Statistics Office said. Total damage was worth about US$371 million (RM1.5 billion), almost triple the amount of the same period last year, the office said. Typhoon Yagi killed hundreds of people in Vietnam in September last year and caused economic losses worth US$3.3 billion. – AFP

to be safe,” Trinh Thi Le, 71, in central Quang Tri province, was quoted as saying by Tuoi Tre newspaper. At least nine people were killed when a typhoon-related whirlwind swept through northern Ninh Binh province early yesterday, according to the local disaster agency. One person was killed in the province of Hue and another in Thanh Hoa, while about 20 were missing, local and national disaster

Thousands of houses and businesses have been damaged or destroyed, said authorities in three provinces. Images published by AFP showed corrugated metal roofs blown off buildings and household debris strewn across saturated streets in coastal Nghe An province. “The wind blew my roof to the sky and then it fell down, breaking everything. I had to cover my head and rushed to my neighbour’s house

o Four domestic airports closed

HANOI: Typhoon Bualoi ripped roofs from buildings and uprooted electrical poles along Vietnam’s coast, killing at least 11 people. The storm, the 10th to hit Vietnam this year, made landfall late on Sunday.

Thai premier outlines policies BANGKOK: Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul yesterday outlined his government’s policy agenda to parliament, focusing on immediate actions to revive Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy. The policies include measures to reduce living costs, tackle household debt and stimulate domestic tourism, with Thailand now struggling with US tariffs, high household debt, weak consumption and a soaring baht. “With limited time and a budget not prepared by this government, as well as being a minority administration, the government must urgently address the challenges facing the nation,” he told parliament. Among the economic measures, the government will assist with individuals with debt not exceeding 100,000 baht (RM13,071) and provide liquidity of up to 1 million baht for smaller businesses, he said. On Friday, the government also announced plans to launch a 47 billion baht co-payment scheme, in which the government will subsidise up to 60% of the costs of certain food and consumer goods bought by qualified Thai citizens. Other priorities include the peaceful resolution of a dispute with Cambodia, combating illegal gambling and enhancing disaster preparedness, Anutin said. – Reuters Anutin’s policies include measures to reduce living costs. – REUTERSPIC BANGKOK: Thailand’s influential former prime minster Thaksin Shinawatra has submitted a petition for a royal pardon for his one year jail sentence, his lawyer said yesterday. The former premier was jailed earlier this month after the country’s Supreme Court ruled that he did not serve his initial prison sentence after spending six months in a VIP wing of a hospital following his return from 15 years of self-exile in August 2023. Thaksin, 76, was initially sentenced to eight years in jail for conflicts of interest and abuse of power while he was prime minister from 2001 to 2006. His sentence was later commuted to one year by the king. Thaksin’s request for pardon, a process applicable to all prisoners who have completed their legal cases, could lead to reduction of his prison time. “The petition was submitted,” Winyat Chartmontree told reporters, adding, “This is a right of every inmate.” – Reuters Thaksin seeks royal pardon

Cua Lo beach in central Vietnam after Bualoi made a landfall yesterday. – AFPPIC

Singapore denies entry to HK activist SINGAPORE: Home Affairs Ministry here said yesterday it had refused entry to Hong Kong activist Nathan Law (pic) over the weekend as his presence would not be in the city state’s “national interests”. “A visa holder is still subject to further checks at point of entry into the country. That is what happened with Nathan Law.” Law had fled from Hong

Law said he was granted a Singapore visa to attend a “closed-door, invitation-only event” and expected to be allowed in. “I received the visa around three weeks prior to departure ... I submitted all information, including the invitation to the event in the application,” he said.

Kong in 2020, and police issued a warrant of arrest for offences under their National Security Law, it said. Upon arrival in

The activist, who holds a UK refugee travel document, said he had been denied entry when he tried to pass immigration after his plane landed at Changi Airport from San Francisco on Saturday. He said he was sent back on Sunday on a plane to San Francisco. “Law’s entry into and presence in the country would not be in Singapore’s national interests,” the Home Affairs Ministry said in a statement. Subianto yesterday defended his ambitious plan to provide free meals for children after some 6,000 cases of food poisoning, saying the percentage of those affected was small and the programme was still finding its footing. The food poisonings have sparked a public outcry and local non-profit organisations have called for the suspension of the programme. The multibillion dollar initiative, which also offers free meals for pregnant women, has rapidly expanded since its launch in January with around 30 million recipients to

“I attempted to go through immigration, but I was detained, despite having a valid visa to enter the country. “I was not told why I was detained,” he said, adding he spent “roughly 14 hours” in Singapore. He said he thought Singapore’s

Singapore, Law was “referred for questioning, and immigration and security assessment” at the airport, according to the ministry. “Law was then refused entry. He was placed on the earliest flight back to San Francisco on 28 September 2025,” the ministry said.

Prabowo defends free meals programme JAKARTA: President Prabowo date. It aims to reach 83 million by the year’s end.

But a human endeavour of this magnitude has never been undertaken before, I think, in the history of the world. It took Brazil 11 years to reach 40 million recipients,” he said. After a Cabinet meeting over the weekend to discuss ways to prevent food poisoning, Prabowo ordered each kitchen in the programme to be given rapid testing equipment to check food quality, a food tray steriliser, a water filter and CCTV connected to the central government for monitoring. The National Nutrition Agency said last week that of the 9,000

“Yes, there were shortcomings, food poisoning. We counted all the meals served, the deviation, the deficiency, or error represents 0.00017%,” Prabowo said in a speech at a political party event. There have been some 70 incidents. Prabowo said the programme, which aims to prevent childhood stunting, has improved nutrition for many children, created jobs as well as opportunities for farmers and fishermen to sell produce. “This doesn’t mean we’re satisfied.

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Four dead in church attack GRAND BLANC: A man opened fire in a Mormon church in Michigan and set the building ablaze on Sunday, killing at least four people in the latest deadly tragedy that President Donald Trump called part of a national “epidemic of violence”. o Attacker killed by police victims announced earlier in the day, two more bodies had been recovered among debris at the burned-down church. He said earlier that eight people had also been wounded in the attack, one of whom was in critical condition. set fire to the church. Some suspected explosive devices were found but it was unclear if they were used to start the fire, they said. Photos also showed the truck apparently driven by the attacker into the side of the building, with two US flags on poles in the vehicle’s rear.

Optus suffers fresh emergency call outage SYDNEY: Australian telco Optus said yesterday it had suffered an emergency call outage in an area south of Sydney, 10 days after a broader disruption that it said had probably caused four deaths when customers were unable to get timely aid. The Australian government has been seeking answers about the disruptions at the country’s No. 2 telecom, which is owned by Singapore Telecommunications. Singtel Group CEO Yuen Kuan Moon plans to meet Communications Minister Anika Wells this week, a spokesperson for the minister’s office said. Yuen will meet Wells along with Optus Chairman John Arthur and CEO Stephen Rue, Singtel said. “Singtel takes this matter seriously and will extend full co-operation to the Australian government and authorities to address the Optus issue,” a spokesperson said. Optus said yesterday that a faulty mobile phone tower site in Dapto, around 100km south of Sydney, interrupted services, including emergency calls, on Sunday morning and affected 4,500 people. “Optus continues to investigate the cause ... the issue has been restored,”a spokesperson said by email. The company said it “confirmed with police, all callers who attempted to contact emergency services are OK.” A network firewall upgrade triggered the deadly 13-hour outage on Sept 18 that disrupted emergency call services in two states and the Northern Territory and potentially affected around 600 customers, some in remote areas who were unable to make calls, leading to the four. Anger over the outage has been growing in Australia, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese calling it “completely unacceptable”. Rue has said checks suggested the first outage could have been caused by human error and admitted procedures were not followed during the outage. An independent review has been set up and that is expected to be completed by year-end. – Reuters Nepal imposes travel ban on ex-premier KATHMANDU: Nepal has imposed travel bans on ousted prime minister KP Sharma Oli and four former senior officials as part of an investigation into deadly unrest earlier this month, the interior minister said yesterday. Protests that began on Sept 8 over a brief social media ban, economic hardship and corruption quickly morphed into nationwide fury after a deadly crackdown. Two days of violence left at least 73 people dead, the parliament and government offices were burned down and forced the government’s collapse. In addition to Oli, travel bans have been placed on former home minister Ramesh Lekhak, former head of the National Investigation Department security agency, Hutaraj Thapa, and two other senior bureaucrats. Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki, who is leading the Himalayan nation until elections in March 2026, set up a commission to investigate the violence. The restrictions were recommended on Sunday by the commission. Commission member Bigyan Raj Sharma said in a statement on Sunday that the five men must obtain permission to even leave the Kathmandu Valley as they “may need to appear for investigation at any time”. – AFP

Journalists in the nearby town of Burton saw a large police presence outside the home of the suspected shooter, whom Renye identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford, aged 40. Renye and other officials did not provide any further details on Sanford. US media reports said he had grown up in the area and was a military veteran. Images of the aftermath at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, a suburb of the city of Flint, showed most of the building reduced to ashes. Authorities said the suspect used petrol and

FBI Special Agent Reuben Coleman told the news conference that the FBI was now leading the investigation and was looking at the attack “as an act of targeted violence”. Trump called the shooting “horrendous” and said it was “yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America”. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, whose leader died the previous night aged 101, called Sunday’s attack a “tragic act of violence”. – AFP

Police said the shooter first rammed the church with his vehicle before opening fire with an assault rifle and then set the building on fire. The attacker was killed by police in the parking lot eight minutes after the first emergency call came in, Grand Blanc Police Chief William Renye told a news conference. Renye said that, in addition to two deceased

Smoke and fire rise from the church on Sunday in this screengrab from social media video. – REUTERSPIC

Seoul scrambles to restore digital public services SEOUL: South Korea brought back online yesterday less than a 10th of public services disrupted after a fire at a data centre affected government websites, exposing its digital infrastructure vulnerabilities. Authorities said 62 systems were restored, from about 647 affected by Friday’s fire during routine maintenance in a server room at the state-run National Information Resources Service in the city of Daejeon, home to the government data centre.

government had no better backup after similar service outages in 2023. Vice-Safety Minister Kim Min-jae said the government had extended deadlines for some tax payments, while waiving fees for the issue of documents, but at least four weeks would be needed to restore some 96 systems completely damaged in the fire. Experts said the latest outage suggested the government lacked adequate systems for immediate recovery of critical public services despite major tech disruptions in recent years. – Reuters

One of the world’s most wired countries, South Korea has put many government services online but officials have given no timetable for full restoration of services. Affected agencies ranged from police and fire to customs authorities, said the Safety Ministry, its own website among those out of service yesterday.

“We see services restoring every hour,” Safety Minister Yun Ho-jung told a briefing, citing recovery of Government24, Korea’s main portal for public services, and financial and postal systems run by Korea Post. President Lee Jae Myung has apologised for the disruption, saying it was surprising the

Four teenagers held after high-speed car chase MELBOURNE: Four teenage boys have been arrested after a car tore through Melbourne’s city centre yesterday, injuring one pedestrian. The incident sent jitters through the city because it occurred in the same part of Melbourne as a deadly rampage in 2017, when a man drove his car into pedestrians, killing five. Police began pursuing the car, believed to have been stolen, in the latest incident after it was seen driving “erratically” on a highway in the east of Australia’s second-largest city, Victoria police said. The car then tore into the city’s central business district, where it hit a woman who was later taken to hospital with injuries that were said not to be life-threatening. The suspects then dumped the vehicle, fleeing on foot before being arrested outside a

shopping centre, police said. The chase lasted around an hour, a police spokesperson said. They also denied news reports that the suspects were armed with machetes. The suspects are between the ages of 15 and 17, police said. TV footage showed the car, a white BMW, with a large dent in its front windscreen. – AFP