04/10/2025

Renewed calls for clear guidelines on AI in journalism Without proper standards, reliance on artificial intelligence risks costly mistakes, erosion of public trust.

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Report on — page 5

SCAN ME No. 8933 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

Report on — page 3 Experts caution Malaysian businesses against over reliance on one marketing option to avoid total loss should platform falter. ‘Not wise to focus all operations efforts exclusively on TikTok’

Report on — page 4 ‘Urgent resources must go towards strengthening Safe School initiative, enhancing mental health and protection from abuse, violence.’ Suhakam unit advocates child friendly Budget 2026

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim seeks help of Turkish president, Qatari PM, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and US Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff to secure release of Gaza aid flotilla volunteers. All-out efforts to free M’sian activists

A screengrab from a livestream video yesterday showing Israeli navy forces approaching the Marinette , the last ship in the Global Sumud Flotilla to be intercepted. – GLOBAL SUMUD FLOTILLA VIA REUTERS

Reports on — pages 2 & 10

SATURDAY | OCT 4, 2025

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Global Sumud Flotillanoble humanitarian mission, says King

KUALA LUMPUR: His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim has described the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) as a noble humanitarian mission to alleviate the suffering of those facing hunger in Gaza, especially the elderly, women and children.

including Malaysia’s efforts to secure the release of the detained volunteers. The King prayed that every noble effort undertaken and led by the government to assist the Malaysian volunteers would be eased and safeguarded by Allah SWT. – Bernama ‘Rallies must be carried out in law-abiding manner’ KUALA LUMPUR: Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has urged the public to ensure that any rally condemning Israel’s detention of participants of the Global Sumud Flotilla humanitarian mission be conducted in an orderly and law abiding manner. His reminder came in the wake of a rally held in front of the United States Embassy on Thursday. Saifuddin Nasution said the right to peaceful assembly must be exercised responsibly and in accordance with the law, without endangering public safety or obstructing civil servants from carrying out their duties. He stressed that no party should use the pretext of holding a rally to cause disorder or pose a threat to national security. “The peaceful assembly organised by some Malaysians is a right guaranteed by the Federal Constitution, and it reflects our solidarity with the humanitarian cause in Palestine. “However, I strongly condemn the irresponsible actions of certain individuals who attempted to obstruct police from performing their duties during the assembly in front of the United States Embassy yesterday,” he said in a post on his Facebook page yesterday. He said police personnel are deployed on the ground to safeguard public safety and order but regrettably certain parties had acted beyond limits to the extent of injuring some police personnel. “Malaysia will remain steadfast in standing with the Palestinian people until justice and freedom are achieved.” – Bernama Asean partners in Amman and Tel Aviv to obtain updates and provide consular assistance. Five Malaysian human rights lawyers – Dir Kheizwan Kamaruddin, Fahmi Abd Moin, Azril Mohd Amin, Ahmad Nazrin Abu Bakar and Luqman Mazlan – are in Amman to represent the detainees. They are working alongside Israel based lawyers from The Legal Centre for Arab Minority Rights in Israel and international legal teams. GSF said more than 450 activists from 47 countries have been transferred to the Port of Ashdod in southern Israel. The activists include nationals from Malaysia, Spain, Italy, Brazil, Turkiye, Greece, the United States, Germany, Sweden, Britain and France. Israel’s Foreign Ministry said the detainees would be deported to Europe. – By Faiz Ruzman

page, relayed by the Royal Press Office. Earlier, Sultan Ibrahim granted an audience to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at Istana Bukit Tunku here, during which Anwar presented an update on the latest developments concerning the GSF,

convey the message of humanity to the world. “They carried only food supplies, yet were obstructed and detained. Such actions are against the principles of universal humanitarian values,” His Majesty said in a post on his Facebook

His Majesty said the mission embodies the spirit of humanity without borders, extending aid to those who are most in need. “The volunteers in the GSF mission, including Malaysians, are willing to accept risks and challenges in order to

Turkiye help sought to secure release of M’sian activists

o Assistance also requested from international partners with influence over Israel to coordinate negotiations to bring detainees home

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Anwar at 8.10am yesterday to obtain the latest information on the health and safety of all activists and their families. “As the main patron of the Sumud Nusantara Humanitarian Mission, he enquired about the well-being of the activists’ families and their health condition, and conveyed his regards while giving full assurance,” he said in a statement. The GSF mission, which involves more than 500 activists from 44 countries including Malaysia, was sailing towards Gaza as a symbol of solidarity and an effort to break the Israeli blockade by delivering essential supplies to Palestinians affected by the ongoing attacks of the Zionist regime. The flotilla carrying humanitarian aid and medical supplies set sail at the end of August, the largest attempt in years to break the blockade. Israel has enforced a blockade on Gaza for almost 18 years, recently tightened in March when it shut crossings and blocked food and medicine deliveries, worsening famine conditions. Since October 2023, Israeli bombings have killed over 66,200 Palestinians. KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has hit back at claims that participants of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) are “terrorists”, calling the allegation outrageous and insulting. “The accusation comes from the terrorists themselves – the Israeli regime. “The biggest terrorist is calling them terrorists. These people carried no weapons, they harmed no one. They brought food, water and medicine. How can they be called terrorists? This is outrageous and insulting.” Anwar also praised the resilience of the detained Malaysians. “ Alhamdulillah , they have shown remarkable spirit. Although they faced harsh seas and had their phones thrown into the ocean, what matters most is their safety. They have contributed greatly in raising global

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is working with Turkiye to secure the release of 23 Malaysian activists detained by Israeli forces, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirming that plans are under way to bring them home via Istanbul. Anwar said he had spoken with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and National Security Adviser Dr Ibrahim Kalin who assured him that Ankara would use its channels with Israel to push for the Malaysians’ release. “I have requested President Erdogan’s assistance, if possible, to take our citizens from wherever they are held in Israel to Istanbul. “From there, God willing, we will bring them home,” he said after performing Friday prayers at Masjid Al-Khadijah, Pantai Dalam. He said he has also engaged with the Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdul Rahman Al Thani, as well as United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio and US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff to coordinate negotiations. Anwar said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail have been tasked with handling matters abroad and domestically. “Our citizens are safe although they are being cruelly detained by the Israeli regime. The way forward is to explore every possible avenue to secure their release. That is my main duty – to bring them home.” He said Malaysia must depend on international partners with influence over Israel. “This is the wisdom of diplomacy. We use every available channel, and if it succeeds I will express gratitude to all involved.” In a statement earlier, Sumud Nusantara Command Centre director-general Datuk Dr Sani Araby Abdul Alim Araby said Anwar had given his full assurance that the government is making every possible effort to secure the release of Malaysian activists who participated in the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) mission. He said he was contacted by

Anwar attending Friday prayers at Masjid Al-Khadijah in Pantai Dalam yesterday. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

Calling GSF participants ‘terrorists’ outrageous: PM

at the Port of Ashdod in Israel and are receiving legal assistance. “ InshaAllah , the Sumud heroes and heroines who were captured have started arriving at the occupation port in Ashdod. GSF lawyers have started contacting them to provide legal services. “At the very earliest we will share their developments tomorrow morning. In the meantime, keep up the action!” he said in a post on his Facebook page. Nadir and three other Malaysian volunteers remain in the Mediterranean aboard the observation vessel Jong Melayu . The Malaysian Embassy in Amman, Jordan, is also closely monitoring the situation. It has met with the Malaysian legal team in Amman to ensure that the detainees receive fair and transparent legal protection. It is also maintaining communication with

awareness, and we salute their sacrifice,” he said after performing Friday prayers. He added that while some had criticised his approach, his priority is to save lives. “Sometimes we speak as if we are heroes without limits. But the real struggle is there, where 65,000 lives have already been lost. Our responsibility is to save lives and to ensure humanitarian aid and food supplies reach those in need. That is what matters to me.” The Foreign Ministry yesterday confirmed that all 23 Malaysians detained are safe and healthy and would be repatriated via a third country. Muhammad Nadir Al-Nuri Kamaruzaman, Cinta Gaza Malaysia CEO and leader of the Sumud Nusantara contingent, said the detained activists have begun arriving

SATURDAY | OCT 4, 2025

3 Do not concentrate on one platform, TikTok users told

App poses lifeline and gamble for young entrepreneurs PETALING JAYA: For young entrepreneurs like Muhammad Rizqan,25, TikTok is both a lifeline and a gamble – a platform that promises fast money but demands constant time, content and risk-taking. What began as a lockdown pastime has turned into a sideline through TikTok’s affiliate programme, in which users earn commissions from product sales. His account, @iturizlah, averages 300 to 500 views per post, with income tied directly to clicks on TikTok Shop. “I only began taking it seriously in 2023. The campaigns promise you can earn thousands if you go full time. But in reality, it’s slow and tough, especially without a marketing background. “To get more sales, you often have to spend money boosting content on TikTok Shop. It takes a lot of time, which is why only some can do it full time,” he said. Despite the challenges, he said he would continue creating content even if TikTok’s rules tightened or reach declined. “You can’t just depend on TikTok. Shopee, YouTube and Facebook also allow affiliate links. If TikTok becomes harder, I’ll switch to other platforms. Many people already have,” he said. For 26-year-old illustrator Nazeerah Zaini, TikTok offered something else: visibility. Her account, @artnosorous, showcases her digital artwork and custom designs. “I chose TikTok because its algorithm helps new creators get exposure even if they don’t have many followers. “The short video format also makes it easier to show the creative process and final results in an engaging way,” she said. But reach does not always translate into sales. “It’s mixed. People enjoy art content, but converting that into paying customers requires consistent storytelling and closer engagement with followers.” For Nurin Afiqah Zainol, 21, who manages @yinyonshop, TikTok’s promise of overnight success was the main draw. With more than 3,000 followers and one post hitting nearly 900,000 views, she said the platform’s organic reach is unmatched. “If you make a creative video, the potential to get on the ‘For You Page’ is huge, even for a new account,” she said. But she admitted she worries about what would happen if that reach dropped. The experiences of these creators underscore a gap between expert advice and everyday practice. For them, TikTok is not just a marketing tool but an entry point into entrepreneurship, one that could either build careers or collapse without warning. – By FAIZ RUZMAN

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o Entrepreneurs must diversify into other digital channels to safeguard businesses as app stability uncertain, say experts

cannot be ignored. Lawmakers in Washington have pressed TikTok’s Chinese parent company ByteDance to divest its US operations, while India banned the app outright in 2020, and Indonesia briefly blocked TikTok Shop last year. Vox Group digital lead Dashwini Ravi said TikTok had “collapsed the traditional marketing funnel”. “Customer journeys that used to take weeks now take hours. Viral moments can convert to sales almost instantly,” she said. She added that about 60% of her clients use TikTok for brand discovery, while 40% focus heavily on TikTok shop and live-selling. “Some SME dedicate up to 80% of their digital budgets to TikTok. “This can create vulnerability to platform shifts. No single channel should exceed 60% of digital spend,” she cautioned Skribble CEO and Strategic Asia Marketing Alliance president Teng Chan Leong agreed that TikTok’s rise had been striking, describing it as “a very powerful social media and social commerce platform”. “For most consumer brands, TikTok is a natural priority since it has the most diverse reach and is currently fast growing,” he said. However, he also said it would be a wise move for SME to focus some of their marketing efforts on other platforms. “SME are prioritising TikTok, but I don’t think they are overly reliant. Most still distribute their presence on Xiao Hong Shu, Instagram, Facebook and sometimes even LinkedIn. “Meta and Google still hold a big share of advertising budgets, but the marketing spend is now stretched to include TikTok, affiliates and live-selling,” he said. Although TikTok’s meteoric rise has made it a launchpad for Malaysian small businesses, experts agree its dominance should be embraced with caution because if the platform stumbles, so could the thousands of entrepreneurs who depend on it.

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s digital economy is currently riding mostly on TikTok, but experts warn the country would be dangerously exposed if the platform falters. With more than 28 million local users spending an average of 39 hours a month on the app, TikTok has overtaken Facebook and YouTube in usage, transforming itself into a marketplace, marketing tool and entertainment hub rolled into one. Association of Accredited Advertising Agents Malaysia (4As) president Tan Kien Eng said TikTok has positioned itself as an essential tool for small and medium enterprises (SME). “For many small businesses and

adding that businesses must diversify into multiple platforms, including AI-powered tools. However, he dismissed immediate fears that the ongoing United States-China dispute over TikTok’s ownership and algorithms would hurt Malaysian users. “Any change to TikTok’s algorithm in America is limited to the American audience only. Therefore, there is no cause for concern here in Malaysia,” he said. However, industry observers caution that global uncertainty

entrepreneurs, it has become nothing short of a lifeline. “Agencies also now regularly include it as part of their clients’ customer journey,” he said. But he cautioned against putting all eggs in one basket. “Micro and small enterprises often concentrate on one platform. But medium and large enterprises cannot depend on only one channel. “Digital is broad. What is available on conventional media is also available digitally,” he said,

Teng said for most consumer brands, TikTok is a natural priority since it has the most diverse reach and is fast growing. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

Ownership change could disrupt visibility and income, says academic PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s small businesses may be thriving on TikTok but academics warn the country is at the mercy of global power struggles that could upend the platform overnight. While Washington pressures 2020. Overnight, thousands of sellers lost their sales channels,” she told theSun. Norsafinas said Malaysia faces a “sovereignty paradox”, in which its massive user base gives TikTok reach and profits, but little influence over how the platform evolves. better data portability, so SMEs are not locked into one gatekeeper.” Norsafinas added that lessons from abroad show the need for both regulatory foresight and SME capacity-building. solution was not to build another large local platform, but to strengthen SME adaptability. “The government and industry bodies should support SMEs through capacity building – teaching them how to communicate across different platforms, adapt their marketing and use data effectively. emphasise paid advertising, SMEs could quickly lose customers.” Mohd Azul said TikTok’s strength lay in its mix of entertainment and e-commerce, giving SMEs low-cost access to millions through its For You Page.

Universiti Teknologi Mara mass communication expert Assoc Prof Dr Tengku Elena Tengku Mahamad echoed the warning, saying SMEs must understand that TikTok’s fast reach comes with hidden risks. “SMEs choose TikTok because it gives fast visibility, but if the rules or ownership change, they could lose that overnight. “The safer approach is to use TikTok for reach while also telling their stories and connecting with customers on other platforms,” she said. Tengku Elena stressed that the

“SMEs must build their own assets – websites, customer email databases, direct channels – so they are not entirely at the mercy of a single platform. “Malaysia should develop an algorithm oversight framework to regulate how platforms promote SME businesses. “Rules should ensure SMEs get advance notice before algorithm changes are implemented to protect them from sudden shocks,” he said. – By FAIZ RUZMAN

TikTok’s Chinese parent company ByteDance to divest its US operations, experts said the standoff underlines a hard truth – Malaysian entrepreneurs are building their livelihoods on a platform the country cannot control. Universiti Utara Malaysia international entrepreneurship specialist Dr Norsafinas Md Saad said the lesson was clear – dependency equals vulnerability. “We saw this when Indonesia temporarily banned TikTok Shop in 2023 and when India banned TikTok in

“Malaysia, despite being a major user base, has limited influence. A change in TikTok’s algorithm or ownership triggered by foreign intervention could sharply disrupt how local businesses gain visibility and income,” she said. She urged policymakers to treat platform dependence as a structural risk. “Diversification must mean more than just trying other apps. It requires incentives, cross-platform tools and

“When global platforms shift their algorithms, they also shift which stories, businesses and communities get visibility,” she said. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia media and communication researcher Dr Mohd Azul Mohama Salleh said many SMEs and young entrepreneurs in Malaysia were not digitally mature enough to survive sudden disruptions. “If TikTok changes its algorithm to

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Rights groups want upcoming Budget to put children first

Boat operators eligible for fuel subsidy claims from Oct 9

CYBERJAYA: Registration for cash refund claims by passenger boat companies eligible for RON95 petrol subsidies will open on Oct 9, said Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali. He said registration can be made through mysubsidi.kpdn.gov.my, adding that the initiative is aimed at ensuring passenger boat operators, particularly those serving island and river areas, could continue providing essential transport services without being burdened by high operating costs. “The government has agreed to include passenger boat companies in the list of public transport sectors eligible to receive RON95 petrol subsidies under the subsidised petrol control system beginning Oct 9. With this, operators can submit cash refund claims through the designated portal,” he said after a fleet card presentation ceremony yesterday. Armizan said only public passenger boat companies registered with the Malaysian Marine Department, Sabah Ports and Harbours Department or Sarawak Rivers Board will be eligible to submit claims. Boats must operate in populated areas and provide scheduled services, such as the Kudat–Pulau Banggi route. As an interim measure, the government has also agreed to provide cash refunds to passenger boat companies meeting the criteria for RON95 purchases made between Sept 30 and Oct 31. “Operators are required to upload supporting documents such as business registration certificates, bank statements, number of boats, boat registration numbers and engine capacity, in addition to valid petrol purchase receipts,” he said. He added that all completed claims will be verified by the relevant water transport regulatory agency and the subsidy system administrator before refunds are credited directly into the company’s bank account. “Cash refunds will be disbursed by the Finance Ministry within 15 working days after the review process is completed,” he said. – Bernama Monthly tax deduction notices now sent via email PUTRAJAYA: The Inland Revenue Board (IRB) has begun sending monthly tax deduction (MTD) notifications to individual taxpayers via email, effective Sept 17. In a statement yesterday, IRB said the August notifications were sent to email addresses registered by taxpayers through the MyTax portal. “This initiative demonstrates IRB’s commitment to assuring taxpayers that deductions made by employers have been duly remitted and credited into their respective tax ledgers. It is also part of IRB’s efforts to enhance digital service delivery and promote the MyTax portal as the official communication channel between the board and taxpayers,” it said. Taxpayers have been advised to ensure their email addresses are valid and up to date in the MyTax portal to avoid interruptions in receiving the monthly notifications. MTD payment details can be checked via the MTD link, while detailed account information is accessible through the “Ledger” link in the portal. – Bernama

o Advocates call for safer schools, mental health investment and stronger child protection

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Rights groups have urged that children must be placed at the heart of Budget 2026, warning that without a “child-first” approach, Malaysia risks failing its youngest citizens and undermining the nation’s future. In a statement yesterday, the Office of the Children’s Commissioner (OCC) under Suhakam called for concrete investments to meet Malaysia’s obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. It said safe schools should be prioritised, with funding channelled into repairing and modernising ageing facilities, upgrading learning materials, enforcing safety standards and supporting anti-bullying initiatives. “Schools must also provide a safe environment for mental and emotional wellbeing. Budget 2026 should expand investment in mental health services by placing more counsellors and psychologists in high-need areas, ensuring hotlines are accessible and creating awareness programmes to reduce stigma and build a culture of care,” it said. OCC also pressed for stronger child protection measures, warning that children remain vulnerable without proper funding to fully enforce the Child Act 2001. It added that poverty continues to erode education, health and long-term opportunities. “Enhancing social protection by increasing cash assistance to low-income families and expanding access to nutritious school meals is crucial,” it said, while calling for more school based health services and expanded healthcare facilities in underserved areas. “Every ringgit spent on children must be seen as an investment in a stronger, safer and more resilient nation. Investment in children must be the nation’s highest priority,” it stressed. Suka Society (Persatuan Kebajikan Suara Kanak-Kanak Malaysia) executive director

Srividhya said a child-first budget could transform children’s daily realities, from safer schools and faster protection responses to fewer hungry children and stronger long-term contributions. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

he said. He also called for amendments to the Construction Industry Payment and Adjudication Act 2012 to shorten adjudication timelines and improve contractors’ cash flow, as well as wider use of collaborative contracts to reduce disputes. On sustainability, Rehda proposed extending the Green Investment Tax Allowance and Green Income Tax Exemption beyond 2026, with broader eligibility. Incentives could include reduced development charges or higher plot ratios for developers achieving gold or platinum certification, and 50% assessment fee rebates for homeowners of green-certified properties in the first three years. Wee noted that while sustainable practices are vital, compliance costs remain a burden and urged the government to provide more funding and a longer transition period. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will table Budget 2026 on Oct 10. – Bernama Srividhya also called for urgent investment in mental health, including adequate ratios of counsellors and psychologists, a 24/7 youth helpline and trauma-informed training for welfare officers, police and judges. “On child poverty, targeted support such as meaningful cash transfers, universal school meals and inclusive education funding are crucial to break cycles of deprivation,” she said, adding that data must be sex disaggregated and inclusive of children with disabilities, refugees, stateless and indigenous groups. She warned against token allocations and siloed policies, urging clear targets and transparent reporting to track improvements in child safety, hunger and absenteeism, and to speed up child-related cases.

MBAM president Oliver H.C. Wee said the industry would need support to adapt to the government’s target of reducing foreign worker intake from 15% to 10% by 2030. He expressed hope Budget 2026 would provide funding through government institutions to help companies transform. He also urged for SST on construction contracts not to be applied retrospectively, warning of higher project costs. Wee highlighted the Industrialised Building System (IBS) as a key enabler for the government’s plan to deliver one million affordable homes by 2035. “The government should take the lead in mandating IBS in all projects, rather than only fulfilling the IBS score. Our new MBAM building in Putra Heights was completed in six months using IBS, with minimal labour and few defects,” Anderson Selvasegaram echoed the call, saying Budget 2026 must reinforce child protection at every level. “It’s only when everyone is actively pushing to keep children safe and promote their rights that we can see a safer and enabling environment for all children,” he said. Child Rights Innovation and Betterment Foundation co-chairperson Srividhya Ganapathy said a “child-first” budget could transform children’s daily realities, from safer schools and faster protection responses to fewer hungry children and stronger long-term contributions. She urged “ring-fenced funding” for safe schools, more child protection officers and social workers, child-sensitive justice reforms, and independent oversight through the Children’s Commissioner.

Developers push for more affordable homes KUALA LUMPUR: The Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association (Rehda) and the Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) have urged the government to include measures in Budget 2026 to improve housing affordability, lower construction costs and promote sustainable development. should co-exist with the current sell-then-build system to avoid shrinking supply, pushing up prices and weakening banks’ appetite for financing.

Rehda called for the revival of the Home Ownership Campaign with targeted incentives until Dec 31, 2026. It proposed stamp duty exemptions on the memorandum of transfer for homes priced between RM300,001 and RM1 million, and exemptions on loan agreements for properties up to RM2.5 million to help more Malaysians achieve home ownership. Highlighting rising business costs, Rehda described the 6% Sales and Service Tax (SST) on construction as “double taxation” on materials and workmanship, suggesting a reduced rate of 3%. On regulatory frameworks, it said the build then-sell model under the 13th Malaysia Plan

SATURDAY | OCT 4, 2025

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Call for clear guidelines on AI in journalism

Police rescue kidnap victim, nab eight suspects in raids KOTA BHARU: Police have rescued a kidnap victim and arrested eight people, including a woman, to assist in investigations into a kidnapping case that was committed in Pasir Puteh last week. Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat said all the suspects, aged between 20 and 46, were arrested in several raids at six locations in Kota Bharu, Bachok, Pasir Puteh and Tumpat on Thursday. The victim was a man in his 20s. He said on Sept 26, the man was kidnapped and confined in an unnumbered house in Cherang Ruku, and the suspects demanded a ransom of RM150,000 from his employer. “Based on intelligence, a Kelantan CID team carried out raids between 2am and 11.30am,” he said in a statement yesterday. Mohd Yusoff added that police also seized various items, including 15 mobile phones, three vehicles, an iron chain with five padlocks, face masks, cable ties and clothing worn during the incident. Also seized were a revolver and an imitation pistol. He said the complainant in the case had handed RM29,000 in ransom to the suspects before the arrests were made. “All suspects have been remanded until Oct 5 for further investigations under sections 385, 342 and 365 of the Penal Code, as well as Section 8 of the Firearms (Increased Penalties) Act 1971.” – Bernama Two villagers swept away by flash floods TONGOD (SABAH): Two people were killed after being swept away by strong currents when flash floods struck Kampung Bangkulut Imbak Timbangan Evogold here. Kinabatangan Fire and Rescue station chief Hairi Otuh said the victims were a 79-year-old Indonesian woman and a seven-year-old local boy. He said the Fire and Rescue Department received a call at 9.46pm on Thursday and only arrived at the scene located 169km away at about 3am yesterday. The flooding in the village is believed to have been triggered by a sudden water surge. “The two were swept away while attempting to cross a flooded road to higher ground to escape the surging waters. “The boy was carried away after slipping from his mother’s grip, while the elderly woman lost her balance while crossing.” He said the elderly woman was found about 250m from the spot where she was reported missing, while the boy was discovered 200m from where she was found. – Bernama Cops seek public help to locate missing teen KUALA LUMPUR: Police are seeking public assistance to locate a 16-year-old girl reported missing since Thursday. Kajang district police chief ACP Naazron Abdul Yusof said the teenager, S. Saamini, was last seen at her home in Section 2, Bandar Rinching, before a missing persons report was lodged at 4pm. “The girl is of slight build, about 140cm tall and was last seen wearing a white T-shirt and black pants,” he said in a statement yesterday. Individuals with any information on Saamini’s whereabouts are urged to contact the nearest police station or the Kajang district police headquarters at 03-8911 4222, or investigating officer Zul Fahmi Yasin at 017-703 8868. – Bernama

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa said there had been a misunderstanding regarding the provision of tents to traders but it has been resolved by replacing them with larger and sturdier units. “The number remains the same. There will be no additions. The collapsed tents were 8ftx8ft but we requested that they be replaced with 10x10 tents.” She was speaking on Thursday after the official appointment ceremony for the Federal Territory Residents’ Representative Council for the 2025 2028 term. Commenting on allegations that some traders were dissatisfied with the balloting system for bazaar lots, she said it had been implemented transparently. “We implemented it as best as possible to maintain the allocation process that is similar to what we did for the Ramadan and Aidilfitri bazaars. “But there might have been slight modifications to ensure that those who are interested in trading are accommodated.” Recently, traders at the bazaar had criticised the earlier tents, claiming they were too small, of poor quality and needed to be replaced. The matter also drew the attention of MIC deputy president Datuk Seri M. Saravanan, who described the tents as not sturdy and unsuitable for a main road known for traffic congestion. – Bernama PETALING JAYA: The RM100,000 fine imposed on Sin Chew Media over the use of an incomplete Jalur Gemilang in its publication has reignited calls for clear, industry-wide guidelines on artificial intelligence (AI) in journalism. Experts warn that without proper standards, reliance on AI risks costly mistakes and erodes public trust. Universiti Teknologi Mara journalism lecturer Fadzillah Aishah Ismail said guidelines should provide a framework for AI use in newsrooms, ensuring transparency and accountability. “Some local media are moving in the right direction but these remain limited to individual newsrooms. Organisations overseas such as Reuters, BBC and AP have clear AI rules emphasising transparency, human oversight and accountability. “Malaysia needs something similar at an Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com o Without proper standards, reliance on artificial intelligence risks costly mistakes and erodes public trust, say experts

decisions are made professionally without racial sentiment.” Fadzillah urged the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission and the Media Council to collaborate with newsrooms to set clear AI guidelines, focusing on responsible use rather than punishment. Universiti Malaysia Kelantan Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Big Data associate fellow Dr Fakhitah Ridzuan said the Jalur Gemilang issue shows the risks of over reliance on AI without human oversight. “AI is just a tool. If the model is not trained with complete and accurate data, it cannot provide reliable responses,” she said, warning that Large Language Models (LLM), often called “black-box systems”, can produce polished but misleading content. “LLM are known for making mistakes. Taken blindly, they can do more harm than good.” She said while AI can improve efficiency, it lacks ethical judgement. She added that the final decision and accountability for any AI-generated output must ultimately rest with humans. “Any confidential information entered into AI is stored and added to its knowledge database. If false information is repeatedly fed, it can result in unreliable outputs. “Editors must enforce checks and require writers to justify their work. Since AI lacks critical thinking, humans must evaluate content even if it appears accurate.”

industry level, perhaps through the Media Council.” Fadzillah, who also teaches Media Law, said while AI is increasingly used for transcription, summarisation and content support, legal responsibility under the Printing Presses and Publications Act, Communications and Multimedia Act and Defamation Act remains with editors and publishers. “Malaysia has no laws specifically regulating AI in newsrooms. If AI produces an error that harms someone’s reputation, it is still the media owner or editor who is liable.” She welcomed the National Guidelines on AI Governance and Ethics, introduced by the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry in Sept 2024, which remain voluntary rather than binding. “From a journalism ethics standpoint, AI should be an assistive tool, not a replacement for human judgement. “Newsrooms must check facts, provide context and ensure accuracy. Public trust depends on human accountability. At the end of the day, AI should serve journalism, not the other way around.” She said the Jalur Gemilang incident highlights how serious mistakes can be made, even if unintentional. “Authorities conduct thorough investigations to determine whether mistakes are unintentional before deciding on penalties. What matters most is that these

Damaged tents at Deepavali bazaar to be replaced KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 118 new tents are being installed to replace those that collapsed due to heavy rain and strong winds at the Deepavali bazaar site in Brickfields.

The collapsed tents being removed by Kuala Lumpur City Hall workers. – PIC COURTESY OF KUALA LUMPUR CITY HALL FACEBOOK PAGE

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Gallery honours kek lapis legacy MIRI: Behind the meticulously arranged layers and striking motifs that have become its signature, the Sarawak layer cake ( kek lapis ) is far more than a traditional dessert. It is a symbol of pride for the people of Bumi Kenyalang and a sweet cultural bridge to those in Peninsular Malaysia. o Centre offers visitors information on history of iconic cake, showcase of popular flavours and baking experience identity of kek lapis . Visitors can try their hand at making one themselves and even dress up in traditional Sarawak attire. With its interactive, meaningful and culturally rich experiences, the gallery aligns with Mohammad Hafidz’s hope of bringing youth closer to this culinary legacy.

evolved into the Siti Payung brand. “People are amazed to see how a successful business can begin with a mother’s simple recipe notes. It becomes a symbol of love and family spirit and it reminds them of their own mothers’ recipes,” said Mohammad Hafidz, who now employs nearly 20 staff. Today, Siti Payung produces 39 varieties of kek lapis , from classics like Masam Manis and Betawi to uniquely patterned roll cakes such as Cadbury, Oreo and Mint, which set the brand apart from others. On future plans, Mohammad Hafidz said he hopes to modernise the museum with new technologies such as LED displays and artificial intelligence-based interactive features to create a more immersive experience. “I also hope to expand the museum to cater to more visitors, with a vision of turning it not only into a Miri icon but also an international gastronomic reference centre.”

recognised as a hub that unites culture, sustainability and innovation. With the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, we hope BFW would be included in the annual calendar of the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry.” At BFW, Kuching-based designer Nasarudin Latep of Nasha Prive will showcase a collection inspired by the Ring Lady of Sarawak, a fading tradition in which women are adorned with iron bangles. “This year, I want to highlight awareness on the Ring Lady. This tradition is fading and may disappear completely, so I’m using the fashion platform to spread the message that this heritage exists and should be valued. I want people to know that fashion can be a medium for championing heritage and raising awareness, not just about showcasing clothing,” he added. – Bernama exposure he gained in China in 2018 inspired him to champion the country’s culinary heritage. “There are many examples we can look to. In France, there are museums dedicated to cheese. In Malacca, there is the Honey Gallery that tells the story and benefits of bees. In Petaling Jaya, there is even a chocolate museum that attracts tourists. “All these show that local products are not merely commodities, they hold artistic, cultural and historical value. They can serve as centres of knowledge and tourist destinations,” he told Bernama. Spanning about 1,800sq ft, the gallery and museum offers more than just a walk through the history and

Awalk Commercial Centre on Airport Road, the gallery and museum has been open to the public without charge since 2019. It stands as the passion project of 40-year-old Mohammad Hafidz Rohani, whose mission is to elevate kek lapis as a world-class culinary heritage and ensure its legacy endures. He said the idea took root after he participated in the Alibaba Netpreneur Programme at Alibaba Business School in Hangzhou, China, an experience that opened his eyes to the importance of documenting business heritage. Mohammad Hafidz began selling traditional Sarawak layer cake in 2009 under the brand Kek Lapis Sarawak Siti Payung. The father of four said the

Its visual appeal and rich flavours have made it a must-buy for travellers. Many believe no trip to culturally diverse Sarawak is complete without bringing home at least a slice of the iconic treat that once captured the attention of celebrity judge Paul Hollywood on The Great British Baking Show . What few realise is the painstaking craftsmanship behind each cake, entailing a process that demands patience, precision and mastery of traditional techniques. That very complexity inspired a Sarawakian to establish the “Galeri dan Muzium Kek Lapis Sarawak Siti Payung”, the only one of its kind in the state. Housed in a modest building at

“Visitors can see for themselves the evolution of kek lapis , how it started, the pioneers, creation of its unique patterns and how the industry has grown into a Sarawak icon. It’s also a space to document the heritage for future generations.” The gallery showcases a variety of cakes with distinctive designs and themes, while the museum traces the evolution of their production, including the traditional tools used in earlier days. One of the most treasured exhibits is a handwritten recipe book belonging to his 74-year-old mother, Siti Jaharah Matassan. The book represents the family’s beginnings in the culinary arts before the business

Borneo Fashion Week returns on 10/10 KUALA LUMPUR: After nearly five years on pause, Borneo Fashion Week (BFW) returns in 2025 with its fourth edition since 2017, spotlighting Borneo’s textile heritage and sustainable fashion. East Malaysian fabrics such as kerikam and pua kumbu, which are rich in cultural value but rarely highlighted. “That is what drove me to establish BFW so designers from this region would have a platform to showcase their work.”

Carrying the theme “Fashion With Purpose”, the event will take place on Oct 10 and 11 at Pavilion Damansara Heights, featuring 22 designers from Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam and Brunei. Founder Stephanie Alcantara said BFW is not just a runway platform but also a space to empower new designers, nurture young talent and connect cultural heritage with the global fashion industry. Alcantara, who holds the title of Mrs Malaysia Classique Globe 23/24 and is also a former Miss Malaysia 1990 runner-up, said her five years in Kuching, Sarawak, opened her eyes to

For this edition, every designer must present at least one sustainable piece using recycled fabrics, eco friendly materials or alternative resources. “For example, clothing can be made from recyclable materials or items not commonly thought of as fashion textiles. We want to raise awareness that fashion is not just about appearance, it also involves how it is made and its impact on people and the environment,” she said, adding that she aims to position BFW as a key Asian fashion hub. “My vision is for BFW to be globally

Alcantara (third from left) said she aspires to position BFW as a key Asian fashion hub. – BERNAMAPIC

SATURDAY | OCT 4, 2025

COMMUNITY 7

Festival celebrates plant-based living, launches ‘Meatless Monday’ o Seventh Malaysia VegFest sees record footfall and support of opinion leaders

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Forestry Department (SFD), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), recently concluded a comprehensive three-day onboarding programme for the newly formed Food Systems, Land Use and Restoration (Folur) Malaysia project team. Held in Sandakan, the orientation was designed to accelerate the integration of the team and equip them with the knowledge and resources needed to effectively deliver on the project’s ambitious goals. The event featured presentations and facilitation from relevant resource officers from SFD. The onboarding programme had several key objectives, centering on providing a clear understanding of the Folur-MY project’s mission, values and expectations. It aimed to ensure all team members have a firm grasp of their specific responsibilities and deliverables, while also facilitating crucial connections with colleagues, supervisors and UNDP partners to foster a collaborative working environment. KUALA in collaboration with the Vegan Society Malaysia (VSM) and Malaysian Vegetarian Society (MVS), recently concluded the seventh edition of Malaysia VegFest, drawing robust support from the public and industry leaders. This year’s festival, held from Sept 25 to 28 at NU Sentral Mall here, was the largest edition to date, with an estimated 15,000 visitors across the four days. The event brought together over 70 plant-based food innovators, sustainable lifestyle brands and eco-conscious creators under one roof. It included the launch of the ‘Meatless Monday Malaysia’ campaign on the third day. As a start, 245 people pledged to have a plant-based meal every Monday. VEG-HUB founder and CEO Gulshan Rai described the event as the biggest and most impactful yet. “From the overwhelming public turnout to the enthusiastic support of key opinion leaders, we are proud to see the plant based movement gaining momentum in Malaysia,” she said. “This year also marked the launch of the Meatless Monday Malaysia initiative, a meaningful step towards sustainable living for both individuals and corporates.” MVS president Datuk Pishu Hassaram lauded VegFest for strengthening the shared commitment to a more compassionate and eco-conscious Malaysia. “The energy and response this year reaffirm that plant-based living is no longer niche, but a growing lifestyle movement.” VSM president Davina Goh chipped in: “VegFest 7.0 proved that veganism is accessible, enjoyable, and deeply connected to Malaysia’s vibrant food culture.” Gracing the occasion was Datuk Nitesh LUMPUR: VEG-HUB, Ű BY JOSHUA CHANG newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Malani, chairman of Yayasan Usahawan Malaysia and Group CEO of Enviro Group, focussed on promoting sustainable business practices in the country. Also present were key opinion leaders, including Davina Goh, Raw Chef Yin, Jennie Lim, Joyce Harn, Sangeeta Krishnasamy and Chef Julien from Le Cordon Bleu who engaged the audience with live demos and talks. Formerly known as Zesty Clickz, VEG HUB was started by Gulshan and her husband Mandeep Singh Sidhu in April 2021 as they had found it difficult to find vegetarian food and products in a single place. They got inspired to see a one-stop shop where one can find not only food but also groceries, clothes and cosmetics, thus germinating the idea of Malaysia VegFest. The event also featured awards for green achievers in the community and industries, as well as a sustainable fashion runway, music and cultural performances, and activities for families and children. A total of 36.51 kg of waste was collected in collaboration with sustainability partner Riiicycle, the largest volumes being plastic, mix plastic, mobile phones, aluminium cans and carton boxes.

Gulshan (standing, centre) and Mandeep (seated, 2nd left) with some of the partners, including former MVS president Rajkumar Sheth (standing, 3rd left), Nitesh (4th left), Pishu (6th left) and Goh (seated, left).

Food and land-use project kicks off

“The primary goal of this structured onboarding is to shorten the learning curve for our new team members,“ said a project representative. “By building a strong foundation of knowledge and networks from the outset, we enable the team to perform effectively and contribute with confidence as soon as possible.” The programme also established a framework for continuous guidance, regular check-ins and a feedback loop to support the team through its initial transition period. The Folur programme is a significant seven year, US$345 million global initiative funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and led by the World Bank. It seeks to transform the world’s food and land use systems through a global knowledge platform and 27 individual country projects. At the country level, the programme accelerates action in specific landscapes and along value chains for eight major commodities: livestock, cocoa, coffee, maize, palm oil, rice, soy, and wheat. The Malaysia project will focus on implementing these sustainable practices within the national context.

Zamakhshari presenting a worker with a certificate and reward for serving the city with excellence. Ipoh council rewards workers who keep city clean

Ű P. CHANDRA SAGARAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

The Public Health and Municipal Services Department of the council is tasked with handling solid, household, garden and bulk waste, cleaning garbage from the council’s markets, food courts, hawkers centres, as well as sprucing up roads and clearing illegal rubbish dump sites. The employees for these tasks are picked from among the civil service assistants, vehicle drivers and supervisors. Among the criteria for the selection are that they must be in Grade H1 and not have any negative disciplinary records. They should not be absent without medical or rest leave, and report for duty on time while carrying out their tasks with excellence and as approved by the department’s evaluation panel. Last month, five employees received the rewards from Zamakhshari at an event held at Zon Buntong Store on September 25. They were Shahril Izwan Mohd Nazri and Othman Harun from Pusat Bandar Zone, Michael Raymond Julias (Buntong Zone), Mohd Firdaus Mohamad (Cherry Zone) and Fatimah Ismail (Unit Task Force). The council hopes the rewards would serve as a catalyst to boost the spirit to work harder and at the same time create healthy competition to provide excellent services for the well-being of the people.

IPOH: The Ipoh City Council regards employees on the field whose task is to keep the city clean and beautiful as the backbone of the efficient services provided to residents. With this in mind, the council picks five employees who have excelled at the job in their respective zones every month. They are given rewards in the form of RM100 each, to be deposited into their bank accounts, as well as a certificate of appreciation. The gesture is additionally meaningful to the recipients as their names and pictures would be displayed at strategic spots in the council’s offices and public places. The idea to reward the employees came from Mayor Zamakhshari Hanipah who hopes to inspire and motivate them in their job. This is especially because they undertake sensitive and critical tasks related to core services that ensure the city remains comfortable and beautiful. According to a statement by the council, the move honours and recognises their excellent services to ensure cleanliness, prosperity and well being of the city and its denizens.

Speakers and participants at the project team orientation held recently in Sandakan.