10/12/2025

Prolonged detention of illegals strains public resources: Activist

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WEDNESDAY DEC 10, 2025

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WEEKLY FOCUS MONDAY Technology and social media

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Staying in spotlight Miss Universe Malaysia Chloe Lim meets fans – P22

Government urged to consider repatriating detainees as a more sustainable solution.

SATURDAY Food and beverage

Expressing concern about Malaysia’s lack of systems and safeguards needed to support fast-growing elderly population, expert urges country to urgently learn from those experiencing realities of a rapidly greying society. Report on — page 5 Clock ticking on senior care reform p 23 Seeing unity, cultural diversity in batik motifs p 24 Lookbook: Bollywood splendour meets tradition p 25 Explosion of talent at BMW Shorties Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY SCAN ME No. 8999 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

With Malaysia projected to become an aged nation by 2040, and the long-awaited Senior Citizen Bill without a firm timeline, an ageing studies expert warns the country is running out of time to protect its silver population. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

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Handover of fuel cell EV will boost automotive innovation across Southeast Asia, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Malaysia strengthening push towards green mobility

Minister attributes success to close cooperation between federal and state govts and private developers. Madani govt exceeds 12MP target of 500,000 affordable homes

Report on — page 4

Report on — page 2

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Green mobility, digital transformation advanced

Govt to retain SST, pursue reforms

KUALA LUMPUR: The government will retain the existing Sales and Services Tax (SST) structure while pursuing improvements to ensure a more efficient and effective tax regime, said Finance Deputy Minister Lim Hui Ying. She said the move reflects the government’s approach to maintaining a targeted consumption tax, under which essential goods and services commonly used by most Malaysians are generally not taxed. “SST is a more targeted tax system and has been used in Malaysia for more than 40 years. It is familiar to industry, businesses and the public. “Its implementation also provides faster fiscal gains for the government,” she said during question time in the Dewan Negara here yesterday. She was responding to a supplementary question from Senator Datuk C. Sivaraj on whether the government is considering reinstating the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or further enhancing SST to ensure the tax system remains resilient. Lim said the government has no immediate plans to reintroduce GST as household incomes remain generally low, making the broader-based tax more burdensome for most people. “The government acknowledges the strengths of GST. However, as Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has explained, the government does not intend to implement GST at this stage. “Reintroducing GST would require a longer preparation period, possibly up to two years, to allow companies to update their systems before it could be rolled out.” She said the government weighed multiple considerations before deciding on the most appropriate tax approach to strengthen Malaysia’s fiscal position. “The government assessed the overall structure of the current tax system, potential areas for improvement, prevailing economic conditions, fiscal needs and the overall standard of living.” – Bernama Armed Forces await approval to go to Gaza MALACCA: Malaysia is awaiting the green light from the United Nations (UN) to deploy a peacekeeping contingent to Gaza for a humanitarian and security mission. Defence Deputy Minister Adly Zahari said the intent has been conveyed to the UN Security Council and the government is awaiting an official mandate before any decision can be finalised. “We are always prepared to send peacekeepers for international assignments and have a battalion on standby for such missions. “For the deployment of our personnel to Gaza, we must also take into account the consent of the Palestinian people, in line with Malaysia’s position that emphasises a comprehensive resolution, as achieving peace in Palestine requires a holistic approach.” Adly was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the state legislative assembly sitting here yesterday. He added that the government continues to uphold its international commitments, including through the deployment of 150 peacekeepers under the Malaysia Battalion 850-12 serving in Lebanon, with the mission expected to conclude at the end of next year. “Our forces are always ready to be mobilised to any location requiring an international peacekeeping mission.” Media reports previously said the Armed Forces is awaiting an official directive from the UN regarding the Gaza peacekeeping mission. Defence Forces Chief Gen Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaffar was quoted as saying the Armed Forces is at a state of readiness to be deployed to undertake the mission. – Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia advanced two major pillars of its national development agenda yesterday – green mobility and digital transformation – as Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed the Madani government’s commitment to sustainable growth and future-ready public services. The milestone was marked by the handover of a hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric vehicle from the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry to the Prime Minister’s Department. The handover represents a significant step in strengthening the nation’s push towards green mobility through low-carbon technology and sustainable economic growth. Anwar said it also demonstrated the o PM reaffirms the initiatives reflect Madani govt’s commitment to sustainable growth

training centres to support continuous digital teaching and learning.” He said the council meeting, which he chaired on Monday, aimed to strengthen public-sector digitalisation under the Madani government’s innovation agenda to deliver faster, simpler and more transparent services centred on the public. To support Malaysia’s ambition of becoming a Global Digital Creative Hub by 2030, the government has drawn up the Digital Creative Ecosystem Roadmap 2026–2030, which aims to position the country as a leader in high-quality intellectual property creation and world-class creative talent development. “These initiatives form the foundation of phase three of the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint (2026–2030), which focuses on empowering businesses, improving living standards and driving digital economic reforms. “The Madani government will remain committed to delivering efficient, people-focused services to ensure Malaysia stays competitive, prosperous and prepared for the rapid changes of the digital era.”

confidence of local and international industry partners in Malaysia’s policy direction, especially in developing a national hydrogen ecosystem. He added that the handover would boost cross-border collaboration and spur automotive innovation across Southeast Asia, Bernama reported. “The Madani government will continue to lead the region’s transition towards green and smart mobility to ensure Malaysia is not only prepared for future needs, but also becomes a leader in shaping a cleaner, safer and more sustainable mobility landscape for generations to come.” On the digital front, Anwar announced that the National Digital Economy and Fourth Industrial Revolution Council has agreed to establish a Digital Transformation Unit in every ministry and accelerate the registration process for MyDigital ID. He said the council also endorsed efforts to advance MyGov Malaysia as a single artificial intelligence-driven digital gateway for government services. “Priority is also being given to expanding internet coverage and improving service quality at public universities and government

Anwar during the handover of the hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric vehicle yesterday. – PIC COURTESY OF PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE

Transport cooperation with S. Korea strengthened KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is strengthening cooperation with South Korea to support talent development, research and innovation in Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS). infrastructure. We build legacy,” he said in his keynote address at the Malaysia-Korea ITS Roadshow here yesterday.

ITS Roadmap 2030, a guiding document that shapes the next decade of digital mobility. “It is more than a policy document. It is our national pledge to deliver real impact, fewer road crashes, smoother travel, reduced emissions and a mobility experience worthy of a modern, forward-looking nation. “At the heart of every ITS initiative is a human story. It is about the mother driving home safely, the worker reaching the office on time, the emergency responder arriving faster and the child crossing the road without fear. That is why we pursue ITS, not for systems but for lives.” He said Malaysia’s mobility vision emphasises harmony, with safer journeys supported by predictive technology, smarter movement through digital connectivity, greener travel choices and people-first design forming the foundation of the future the country aims to build. – Bernama

Nanta said the roadshow provides a strategic platform for the exchange of knowledge, the sharing of innovation and the exploration of new opportunities in ITS, together with policymakers, industry experts, researchers and practitioners. He also said the event marks a historic development with the exchange ceremony of an inaugural memorandum of understanding between the Works Ministry and South Korea’s Land, Infrastructure and Transport Ministry. He said the agreement reflects the shared aspiration for stronger cooperation in the areas of ITS and smart tolling, sustainable construction technologies, as well as infrastructure maintenance and asset management. Nanta added that Malaysia is advancing the

Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said South Korea’s global leadership in ITS, smart cities and digital technologies provides Malaysia with a strong strategic partner as it implements the Malaysia ITS Roadmap 2030. He said Malaysia and South Korea have built decades of close cooperation, noting that Korean engineering expertise has contributed to several major national infrastructure projects since the 1990s. “From the Penang Second Bridge to the Petronas Twin Towers, Korea’s engineering excellence stands proudly within Malaysia’s landscape. “These structures remind us that when Malaysia and Korea unite, we build more than

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Pick up pace on ageing-nation readiness, says expert

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: The Health Ministry has updated its nurse staffing figures to an 83% fill rate across federal facilities while maintaining its projection of reaching at least 90% staffing by 2030, it said in a written reply to the Dewan Negara on Monday. The ministry said that as of September this year, 69,494 nurses were serving in the Health Ministry against 84,286 established posts, representing an 83% staffing level. The ministry said several factors contributed to shortages across federal hospitals and clinics. “One factor was the sharp reduction in trainee intake during the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2021, the intake for the Health Ministry training institutes’ Diploma in Nursing was only 153 trainees, which indirectly affected the number of graduates produced in 2024,” it said. Another factor was the creation of new posts that outpaced the supply of graduates. “Between 2021 and 2024, a total of 12,925 additional nursing posts were created at the Health Ministry. However, during the same period, the training institutes only produced 4,220 graduates or 33% of the additional posts created,” it added. The ministry said some facilities now require more nurses than originally projected due to “unforeseen factors such as peak patient arrivals and outbreaks of infectious diseases”. The written reply was issued in response to Senator Datuk Mustafa Musa, who asked about projected staffing needs PETALING JAYA: Malaysia must urgently learn from countries that are experiencing with the realities of a rapidly ageing society, says an ageing studies expert, warning that the nation is running out of time to protect its seniors. The warning comes as the long awaited Senior Citizen Bill remains without a firm timeline, even as Malaysia is projected to become an aged nation by 2040. Universiti Teknologi Mara senior lecturer Dr Nur Amalina Aziz said the country still lacks the systems and safeguards needed to support a fast growing elderly population. She pointed to Japan – one of the world’s oldest societies – as a cautionary example. “About 30% of Japan’s population is aged 65 and above, and more than 60% of older adults live alone. In Japan, many elderly individuals living alone have been found dead at home without anyone realising it for days.” To prevent such tragedies, Japan introduced the Zero Isolation Project in 2013, identifying older persons living alone without life insurance and providing them with volunteer support. It also operates “watchover services” that monitor seniors’ wellbeing and send regular updates to family members. “These are proven systems that

among older Malaysians.” Nur Amalina said despite the challenges, there are signs of progress. In June, Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the Senior Citizen Bill may be tabled next year, while the 2026–2030 Senior Citizens Action Plan, launched in October, seeks to bolster protection and welfare programmes for Malaysia’s ageing population. Nur Amalina stressed that these initiatives must be accompanied by concrete action on the ground. “Legislation and plans are important, but without proper implementation, community engagement, and support for caregivers, our seniors will remain vulnerable. “With Malaysia’s elderly population set to nearly double in the next two decades, urgent reforms are needed – not just to protect older Malaysians, but to ensure they can live safely, independently and with dignity,” she said.

o With the elderly population set to double, Putrajaya is urged to adopt Japan-style monitoring and pass long-delayed senior protection laws

what most middle or lower-income households can afford.” Even so, she said the silver alert initiative aligns with national goals under the 13th Malaysia Plan, which prioritises long-term care sustainability and seniors’ wellbeing. “Malaysia must introduce specific legislation for older persons without delay to ensure proper protection and address existing gaps. Families must take filial responsibility seriously and those who neglect or abandon elderly parents should be held accountable.” The government, she added, must expand support for caregivers, including assistance for medical needs, adult diapers, nutritious food and other essential supplies. “Strengthening community vigilance is equally crucial to prevent neglect, isolation and safety risks

PETALING JAYA: Communications Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching told the Dewan Negara yesterday that “devices are not babysitters” as she urged parents to play a stronger role in monitoring their children’s internet use. She said weak supervision at home remains one of the biggest risks exposing children to harmful online content. “Parents must monitor their children’s internet use to prevent exposure to violence, crime, gambling and virtual reward systems that encourage aggressive behaviour. Devices are not babysitters – they are not substitutes for parents.” She said the Cabinet has directed the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to study age-and-identity verification methods to restrict minors below 16 from accessing harmful online content, but warned that the most effective safeguard still lies at home. “The role of parents is extremely important. Next year, one of MCMC’s initiatives is to expand the Safe Internet campaign to parents so we can educate them on what types of parental-control tools they can use. Unfortunately, not many parents realise these tools exist,” she said. As of Dec 5, Teo said the campaign had been carried out in 8,585 schools and higher-education institutions involving more than 680,000 participants. She said platforms such as YouTube, Google and email services already offer parental-control settings, but public awareness remains low. “We hope that through this campaign, by entering schools and triggered. need coordination committees involving NGOs, local leaders, volunteers and authorities to ensure fast, organised responses. Maintaining regularly updated registries of seniors living alone would further reduce the risk of delayed interventions or missing person cases,” she said. Despite the potential of such systems, Malaysia still faces deep structural challenges. Nur Amalina said the country lacks adequate long-term care services, government healthcare facilities are overstretched and there is severe shortage of both formal and informal caregivers. She said long-term care is expensive, adding further strain. “Basic services can cost around RM1,000 a month, while professional care can reach RM5,000 – far beyond Communities Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

through 2030. In the same reply, the ministry also introduced a key change to the hiring process for new nurses beginning next year. “Starting this year, new appointments of Grade U5 nurses will no longer be required to undergo an interim contract phase,” the ministry said, referring to the temporary contract period previously required before nurses were placed on permanent service. A series of initiatives have been introduced to increase the supply of trained nurses. Among them is the permanent appointment of 3,254 nurses this year, which the ministry described as a key measure to strengthen long-term staffing stability. It said 935 nursing graduates from the training institutes were targeted for appointment to Grade U5 posts next year, which is a 53% increase compared with the 613 graduates for this year. “For this year, a total of 3,343 trainees have been admitted for the Diploma in Nursing programme, higher than the intake of 2,265 trainees last year and 1,667 in 2023,” said the ministry. It added that five public universities and 39 private institutions are now offering the Diploma in Nursing following the lifting of the moratorium on Aug 1, 2024 and that strategic collaboration with private colleges will continue through career briefings to attract graduates to the public health sector. – By FAIZ RUZMAN Malaysia Japan’s experience shows how effective community-based monitoring can prevent isolation and save lives,” she said. On the potential of a silver alert system, Nur Amalina said it could be transformative, but only if supported by a robust community network. “An effective silver alert must track an older person’s location and immediately notify family members, neighbours and the community when a senior wanders off, goes missing or faces danger. “Features such as SOS emergency buttons, fall-detection sensors and routine-activity monitoring could greatly improve safety, particularly for seniors living alone. But technology alone is not enough. “Trained volunteers must be ready to respond when alerts are can adopt.

Have stronger parental oversight on internet use: Deputy minister

Measures rolled out for nurse staffing in public hospitals, clinics: Health Ministry

Without parental supervision children remain vulnerable to harmful online content, said Teo. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

engaging with pupils and students, they will better understand how to protect themselves and what kind of assistance they can seek when they face issues online.” Teo was responding to Senator Norhasmimi Abdul Ghani, who asked about government measures to monitor paedophilia activity on social media and online-gaming platforms. She said enforcement against child exploitation is carried out by the police under the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017, the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, while MCMC monitors harmful online material and engages platforms on transparency through operations such as Ops Pedo 1.0 and Ops Pedo 2.0. The issue gained urgency when Senator Datuk Abdul Halim Suleiman raised concerns about children accessing adult games and making

purchases on YouTube and Google without their parents’ knowledge. Teo also noted that online gaming platforms are not yet a licenced service category but said enforcement remains possible when content breaches the law. “Although online-gaming content is not currently part of a licenced service category, enforcement action can still be taken if the content is found to contravene the law, including Section 233 of Act 588 (Communications and Multimedia Act 1998). “Such action includes takedown requests, further investigation or applications to block related websites, subject to the legal provisions in force. “We are finalising regulations and self-regulatory codes under the Online Safety Act 2025 with specific focus on protecting children online and setting content according to general suitability,” added Teo.

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Govt exceeds target of affordable homes provided

N. Sembilan a dynamic investment destination

SEREMBAN: Rapid development and a steady influx of new investments have positioned Negeri Sembilan as one of the most dynamic investment destinations in the peninsula. Seremban MP Anthony Loke said this investment momentum is evident from the construction of new factories and the rise in land acquisitions, which contributes to the increase in the state government’s land premium collection. “This can be clearly seen in the non-tax revenue for 2026, projected at RM372 million, driven largely by land premiums, similar to the trend over the past two years. “To sustain this level of revenue, the state government’s goal of reaching RM1 billion in revenue by 2030 is achievable, provided efforts continue to be made to maintain a consistently positive investment climate,” he noted. Loke said the state government’s target is to achieve revenue collection of RM1 billion by 2030 but emphasised the need for continuous initiatives to ensure the state remains conducive and attractive to investors. He said the Seremban Sentral project is a key catalyst in the city’s transformation into a modern economic centre, and would become a landmark for Seremban. “The development includes a shopping mall, a private medical centre and an office tower, all integrated with the Seremban Railway Station, a design that would strengthen the area’s role as a strategic transport hub,” said Loke, who is also Chennah assemblyman. He said Seremban’s importance as a mobility hub is set to rise with the construction of a new station and the launch this week of the Southern Electric Train Service between Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru. According to him, the federal government is upgrading and redeveloping the double track between Seremban and Kuala Lumpur, a project expected to be completed within two years. Datuk Saiful Yazan Sulaiman (BN-Johol) said the state has recorded stable economic performance and is forecast to grow by between 3.7% and 4.0% next year, Bernama reported. “This shows that the state is on a strong trajectory despite global economic uncertainties. The unemployment rate has been kept low at about 2.9% while inflation is under control at around 1.7%. He praised the state’s success in attracting investments, noting RM7.2 billion in 2024 and RM6.2 billion as of the third quarter this year, with a projected RM8 billion next year.

the Housing Development Account, give him confidence that there would be no abandoned housing projects by 2030, Bernama reported. He also said the federal government has revived 1,333 sick and abandoned housing projects across the country, bringing relief to nearly 160,000 homebuyers.

portion of claims arises from lifestyle-related illnesses, such as cardiovascular diseases.” He said by incentivising preventive care, early screening and wellness programmes through tax benefits or co-funded initiatives, the sector could reduce long-term claims burdens and help stabilise costs for consumers. Nor Azman underscored the role of innovation and digitalisation in the insurance and takaful sector. He urged the public to be proactive about their health while understanding the coverage and benefits available under their plans. “The rising cost of treatment is a pressing issue affecting consumers and the broader insurance and takaful ecosystem. He said this requires close collaboration with healthcare providers, regulators and industry stakeholders to promote transparency, cost efficiency and responsible pricing within the healthcare system. “Affordability cannot be addressed by a single party. It requires an ecosystem approach involving policymakers, regulators, healthcare providers, industry players and consumers. “By working together, we could maintain sustainable contribution levels and ensure quality healthcare remains accessible and financially sustainable for Malaysians in the years to come.” development project would serve as transit housing for youths and would be managed by the Johor Housing Development Corporation. “In that area, rent for a three-bedroom unit is around RM2,000, but the government has set the rate at RM600 for same unit and RM200 for a one-bedroom unit to assist young people who are newly employed or newly married. “The project is in the tender process and construction is expected to begin in the first quarter of next year.” relentlessly for three years to revive the stalled projects. He announced that the ministry has approved RM82 million for the construction of Johor’s first Program Residensi Rakyat in Larkin. He said the integrated

o Success stems from implementation of the Madani housing reforms: Minister

JOHOR BAHRU: The Madani government has provided 511,544 affordable homes, exceeding the target of 500,000 units set under the 12th Malaysia Plan. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the achievement as of Sept 30 covers units that have been completed, are under construction, and have obtained planning approval. He said the success stems from close cooperation between the federal and state governments, as well as private developers, and the implementation of the Madani He said many of these previously delayed developments have been completed, with many homebuyers moving into their new residences. “This milestone was made possible through the collaboration of various parties, including civil servants, responsible developers who stepped in to rescue projects and homebuyers who showed patience throughout the process.” According to Nga, the ministry’s special task force has been working Rising cost of private healthcare causes concern housing reforms announced by the ministry on Nov 20. “The Madani government has become the first administration to make history by not only meeting, but also surpassing the target of building 500,000 affordable homes.” Nga said Klang Valley recorded the highest number of affordable housing units built due to its dense population, followed by Johor. He added that the five key reform mechanisms, including the Electronic Sales and Purchase Agreement, the Housing Integrated Management System and audits of

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: The rising cost of private healthcare is emerging as a serious concern for the sustainability of health insurance and takaful premiums, warned Takaful Malaysia Group CEO Nor Azman Zainal. He said treatment charges have consistently outpaced general inflation, driven by higher medical costs, increased utilisation of healthcare services and the adoption of advanced medical technologies. “Medical inflation is a key concern for the sustainability of health protection offerings in Malaysia. “In 2025, we continue to see double-digit growth in medical claims, reflecting higher treatment charges and service utilisation.” For the takaful sector, the implications are particularly direct. Contributions from customers are pooled to pay for medical claims and rising treatment costs put pressure on the fund, making long-term sustainability a challenge. He emphasised that prudent cost management and responsible stewardship are crucial to safeguard customers’ interests. Nor Azman said sustainability requires greater collaboration across the entire healthcare ecosystem, including insurance and takaful operators, healthcare providers, regulators and consumers. Collective efforts to promote cost transparency, fair pricing, ethical

Nor Azman underscored the role of innovation and digitalisation in the insurance and takaful sector. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

reduce unnecessary outflows and make protection more efficient.” Bank Negara Malaysia, together with industry stakeholders, is developing an affordable basic medical and health insurance and takaful product. He said this initiative aims to expand affordable protection, make healthcare coverage more accessible to middle and lower-income households, curb rising medical costs, stabilise premiums and contributions. “Preventive healthcare is another critical focus area. A significant

charging practices and preventive healthcare initiatives would be essential in managing medical inflation and protecting the affordability of coverage. On immediate measures to prevent premiums from becoming unaffordable, he pointed to addressing medical cost inflation as the top priority. “Strengthening claims data sharing, promoting evidence-based treatment guidelines and adopting outcome-based pricing models with healthcare providers could help

Art sector has lowest social security coverage, says ministry

KUALA LUMPUR: The arts sector still registers as the group with the lowest social security coverage, said Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong. He said this was despite over 860,000 self-employed individuals contributing to the Social Security Organisation (Socso) under its Self-Employment

from January to October, with total payments exceeding RM25.9 million. He added that Socso is focused on raising awareness and participation in the arts industry, which operates independently without permanent employers, making them exposed to risk of losing their incomes due to injury or accidents. – Bernama

involvement need to be intensified through matching contributions, with the government allocating subsidies of up to 70% for Self-Employment Social Security Scheme contributions in Budget 2026. He also said Socso has channelled beneifts to 6,815 Self-Employment Social Security Scheme contributors

matching contribution allocations, especially among those in the arts sector as they are also exposed to various unexpected work risks.” The programme is an awareness platform to raise public awareness on the importance of social security for self-employed individuals. Sim said efforts to boost art sector

Social Security Scheme. As of 860,016 self-employed individuals in sectors including food transport, food delivery and traders, have registered with Socso, but only 9,660, or 1.12%, are from the arts sector. “We need to redouble our efforts and spread information about our November,

WEDNESDAY | DEC 10, 2025

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Prolonged migrant detention strain on resources: Activist

Mohd Isa acquittal appeal hearing rescheduled PUTRAJAYA: The hearing of the prosecution’s appeal against the acquittal of former Felda chairman Tan Sri Mohd Isa Abdul Samad on nine corruption charges has been rescheduled to Feb 5, 2026 at the Federal Court. DPP Afzainizam Abdul Aziz said the new date was set during the case management conducted online before deputy registrar Wan Fatimah Zaharah Wan Yussof on Monday. He said the hearing was initially fixed for Dec 4, but the date was vacated as Mohd Isa, 75, was admitted to a hospital. On March 6, 2024, a three-judge panel of the Court of Appeal unanimously set aside the conviction as well as six years imprisonment and a RM15.45 million fine imposed on Mohd Isa by the Kuala Lumpur High Court on Feb 3, 2021. The prosecution filed a notice of appeal on March 7 this year seeking to set aside the Court of Appeal’s decision, and on June 26, a petition of appeal, advancing 24 grounds to support its contention that the Court of Appeal erred in law and fact when it acquitted Mohd Isa of all charges. Mohd Isa was charged in 2018 with nine counts of dishonestly receiving RM3.09 million in bribes from Ikhwan Zaidel, the then director of Gegasan Abadi Properties Sdn Bhd, via his former special officer, Muhammad Zahid Md Arip. The payment was purportedly made as an inducement for approving the purchase of the Merdeka Palace Hotel & Suites in Kuching, Sarawak, by Felda Investment Corporation Sdn Bhd for RM160 million. – Bernama Duo nabbed over subsidised diesel smuggling BUKIT KAYU HITAM: The Border Control and Protection Agency thwarted an attempt to smuggle subsidised diesel following the detention of two Thai men at the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex on Monday. Bukit Kayu Hitam agency commander SAC Mohd Nasaruddin M Nasir said the suspects, one aged 30 and the other in his 40s, were detained after fuel was found in the additional tanks of their respective vehicles during exit checks at Block C of the complex. “At 4.49pm, we detained a Thai man and seized 900 litres of diesel valued at RM2,772. The detention followed an inspection of his pickup truck, which revealed an additional tank stored with diesel. We also seized the RM40,000 vehicle.” He said during an operation at 7.45pm, they detained another Thai man on suspicion of trying to smuggle 800 litres of diesel, worth RM2,464, using the same method and driving a pickup truck as well. Mohd Nasaruddin said the total seizure, 1,700 litres of diesel and both vehicles, is valued at an estimated RM105,000. – Bernama

decade, with repeated large-scale enforcement operations resulting in detainees being housed nationwide. “The government should explore practical and viable ways to expedite repatriation while balancing humanitarian concerns with cost, safety and public interest.” As of Aug 31, 2,196 children were detained, making up 11% of the 20,143 undocumented migrants currently in custody at 18 immigration depots and two temporary facilities. The latest figure indicates a sharp rise from the last available figures from the Home Ministry, which in 2023 said there were more than 1,300 children held in immigration depots. On Saturday, theSun reported that Human Rights Commission of Malaysia children’s commissioner Dr Farah Nini Dusuki said Malaysia’s continued detention of more than 2,000 children in immigration depots violates the child protection obligations of the country. “The child protection principle under Article 37(b) of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) states that detention must be a last resort, for the shortest possible time and in the best interests of the child. The current situation falls short of this standard.” The commission also highlighted gaps in the implementation of the United Nation’s Nelson Mandela Rules, including overcrowding, limited space for daily activities, inadequate access to education and healthcare and poor hygiene. Boys aged 12 to 17 are reportedly held together with adult male detainees, a practice that violates both the Nelson Mandela Rules and Article 37(c) of the CRC. She said alternatives to detention remain inadequate, and the commission continues to urge the government to adopt community-based approaches involving agencies, NGOs and local networks. “We are ready to work with the government to implement solutions aligned with international human rights standards.”

afford their return and foreign embassies may be unable or unwilling to cover it.” He also raised concerns over overcrowding at detention centres, adding that prolonged confinement could worsen conditions, particularly for children. Lee said it was not advisable for minors to be housed along with adult detainees, as it could expose them to safety and psychological risks. “Young detainees, some as young as 12, are sometimes held together with adult men, exposing them to potential risks and dangers. While it is not advisable for children to remain in these conditions, repatriation could alleviate both financial and safety concerns.” He highlighted that keeping large numbers of detainees for prolonged periods also carries security risks, with past incidents in which detainees attempted to escape. “The issue of illegal immigrants held in detention centres has persisted for more than a

o According to Immigration Dept, govt spends over RM89m annually on detainee welfare

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

recently that more than 2,000 children are being held in immigration depots nationwide. According to the Immigration Department, the government spends about RM89 million a year on meals for detainees, at approximately RM15 per day for each individual, excluding other costs such as electricity, medical care and operations, with spending varying as detainee numbers fluctuate. “Against this backdrop, I urge the government to consider repatriating detainees as a more sustainable solution. “While embassies are usually informed of their citizens’ detention, deportation faces practical obstacles, including (questions about) who would bear the cost, as many detainees cannot

PETALING JAYA: Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said keeping immigration detainees, including children, comes with a heavy price tag, adding that the government’s human rights obligations make prolonged detention a strain on public resources. He said authorities must continue providing daily care and welfare for detainees, a responsibility that becomes increasingly challenging as numbers rise and detention periods lengthen. He was referring to the annoucement by the Home Ministry in the Dewan Rakyat

Lee raised concerns over overcrowding at detention centres, adding that prolonged confinement could worsen conditions, particularly for children. – SUNPIC

Unemployed man charged with murder of senior citizen MANJUNG: An unemployed man was charged at the Magistrate’s Court yesterday over the murder of an elderly man at a house in Kampung Koh last month. 4.44am on Nov 26. The charge was brought under Section 302 of the Penal Code, which carries either the death penalty or imprisonment of between 30 years and 40 years. Previously, it was reported that a 78-year-old man was found dead in a pool of blood in his living room at Kampung Koh, suspected to have been murdered. 1952, which carries a maximum fine of RM5,000 or a maximum imprisonment of two years.

Meanwhile, before Sessions Court Judge Azizah Ahmad, the accused was sentenced to five years’ imprisonment and one stroke of the cane after pleading guilty to self-administering morphine. He was also placed on a two-year supervision order under the National Anti-Drugs Agency. Lin, who has three previous drug-related convictions, was charged with committing the offence at the Manjung NCID office at 4.30pm on Jan 20. – Bernama

The accused was also sentenced to seven months’ imprisonment yesterday after pleading guilty to a charge of consuming amphetamine and methamphetamine. The offence took place at the Manjung police headquarters’ Narcotics Criminal Investigation Division (NCID) on Feb 4. He was charged under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act

Lin Chee Ming, 49, nodded in understanding after the charge was read before Magistrate Fakhrul Razzi Abd Hamid. However, no plea was recorded as a murder charge falls under the jurisdiction of the High Court. Bail was not offered. Lin is accused of intentionally causing the death of Ling Chin Kian, 78, at Kampung Baru, Kampung Koh in Sitiawan, between 3.40am and

He would also be liable to not less than 12 strokes of the cane, if the death sentence is not imposed. DPP Nuranisah Ismah Muhammad Husaini appeared for the prosecution, while the accused was unrepresented. The court set Feb 10, 2026 for the case mention to allow for submission of documents, as well as relevant reports.

WEDNESDAY | DEC 10, 2025

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Unique attractions in Bagan Datuk

o District is home to distinctive natural landscapes and rich local heritage: Zahid

vast coconut plantations, which are the district’s economic backbone and hallmark. Dubbed the Land of Coconuts, the district is filled with coconut trees, and locals transform the harvest into oil, snacks, handicrafts and fresh coconut drinks that are a hit at roadside stalls. He said to showcase Bagan Datuk’s tourism attractions, the official Visit Bagan Datuk portal has been launched, offering comprehensive information to visitors and encouraging greater tourist arrivals to the district. “While Bagan Datuk may not yet have large hotels, the homestays run by residents not only supplement their income but also provide tourists with an authentic village lodging experience.”

Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as Rural and Regional Development minister, also described the Sunflower Garden in Bagan Sungai Burung as a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. Covering nearly one hectare, the garden features more than 2,000 sunflowers that bloom in cycles, creating scenic landscapes almost year-round. It has become a favourite destination for visitors, especially for pre-wedding and family photo shoots. He added that the district is also home to Masjid Tuminah Hamidi, commonly known as the Tourism Mosque, which has emerged as a prominent new landmark. No trip to Bagan Datuk is complete without experiencing its

He also pointed out Sungai Burung as another attraction. “It was officially designated Perak’s 12th district in 2017. Sungai Burung is a popular site for feeding eagles at dusk. “There is also the Sungai Burung Aquarium, featuring a diverse array of freshwater fish, including giant arapaima, arowana and garfish, as well as terrestrial animals such as peacocks, rabbits and monitor lizards. “As night falls, Sungai Burung comes alive with the “blue tears” phenomenon, which is a natural bioluminescence. “The phenomenon is exceptionally rare worldwide. “It could be witnessed at night, in rain or clear skies. Seeing is truly believing.”

KUALA LUMPUR: Formerly known as a fishing district, Bagan Datuk at the western tip of Perak has emerged as a new tourist destination, showcasing distinctive natural landscapes, rich heritage and one of-a-kind experiences. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the district, also renowned for its coconut plantations, offers a variety of unique attractions that could appeal to both domestic and international tourists, Bernama reported. Ahmad Zahid, who is also Bagan KOTA BELUD: The reputation of the Kota Belud tamu as one of Sabah’s most iconic weekly markets is built on a mix of traditional goods, local produce and history stretching back over a century. Established in 1878 by William Pretyman, the first British Resident of Tempasuk (now known as Kota Belud), the market has served as a vital hub for 147 years, bringing together the diverse communities of Sabah. Every weekend, the market, located approximately 80km from Kota Kinabalu, serves as a meeting point for the Bajau , Dusun and Iranun communities, who gather to trade, buy or simply soak in the atmosphere of the market. A survey by Bernama found that visitors arrive early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and browse a wide variety of items, ranging from food and plants to local produce and handicrafts.

Datuk MP, said one of the attractions gaining increasing attention is the Sky Mirror, a natural phenomenon in which the surface of the sea flawlessly reflects the sky, creating the illusion of a giant mirror. “Bagan Datuk boasts its own Sky Mirror, one of just seven such sites worldwide.” The phenomenon occurs only a few times each month, during low tides around the new or full moon. At these moments, the shallow seabed becomes a reflective surface, creating an illusion that visitors are walking on the sky. Cultural diversity is not just acknowledged, it is celebrated. The aroma of traditional cakes, the scent of local coffee and sounds of friendly haggling combine to create a unique experience that can only be found at the tamu . The market, which was originally located in Kampung Siasai, is also a premier destination for finding hard-to-source fruits such as tarap , bambangan and Brazilian longan , more commonly known as matoa . For Samsiah Ahat, 59, who has earned a living here for more than 25 years selling forest plants, vegetable seedlings, flowers and wild Rosella flowers, the market’s current site in the town is comfortable and organised. “It’s a world of difference. It was very (basic) back then. Now it is clean and has proper shelters, all provided by the district council.” Beyond plants, the market is also renowned for rare items, including traditional machetes, mengkuang

Kota Belud tamu continues uniting locals after 147 years

Beyond plants, the market is also renowned for rare items, including traditional machetes, mengkuang mats, rattan baskets and other local handicrafts. – BERNAMAPIC

salted and sun-dried until firm. While it could fetch between RM20 and RM80 per fish elsewhere, it is still sold for as low as RM5 each at the market . She also said the tamu is more than just a marketplace; it is a bridge connecting tradition with new generations, proving that local heritage remains relevant in the lives of Sabahans. – Bernama

past, when they used to trade on muddy ground, with no lighting and dilapidated structures. She added that the market’s authenticity is a major draw for visitors, including those from Peninsular Malaysia, who often seek out salted fish, especially ikan liking , which is a local specialty. Ikan liking is a type of trevally that is

mats, rattan baskets and other local handicrafts, which are highly sought-after by visitors. Norhayati Jaran, 48, a salt fish trader who entered the business at the age of 14 with her late mother, said facilities such as toilets and lighting have made a great difference. She said the transformation of the tamu is remarkable compared to the

WEDNESDAY | DEC 10, 2025

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Thai-Cambodia clashes escalate

o More than 140,000 civilians flee violence

Cambodians,” Poan Hay said. She is sheltering at a pagoda with relatives about 70km from the border in Siem Reap province’s Srei Snam. “For the last five months, I couldn’t sleep a lot. I was worried about our safety,” she said. “Yesterday Thai jets flew along the border. I was so scared.” Phnom Penh accused Thai forces of shelling positions overnight, which killed two people travelling on a national road. Seven Cambodian civilians have been killed in total and about 20 wounded this week, Cambodia’s Interior Ministry said in a statement. More than 21,000 people have been displaced from three border provinces, the ministry said. The Defence Ministry said the Thai army had resumed attacks around 5am yesterday in border regions, including in the area of centuries-old temples, such as the Unesco world heritage site, the Preah Vihear temple. The Thai army said three soldiers have been killed since Monday. One was killed yesterday by indirect fire in Surin province while a grenade killed another soldier in the area of the Preah Vihear temple. Nearly 500 temporary shelters have been established across several border provinces, housing more than 125,000 civilian evacuees, according to a government statement. Thai navy spokesperson Parat Rattanachaiphan said in a press

SREI SNAM: Fighting between Thailand and Cambodia spread yesterday to new parts of their contested border as the toll rose to 10 killed and more than 140,000 civilians fled the violence. The two countries have blamed each other for the renewed clashes over their century-old border dispute, which saw Thailand launch airstrikes and use tanks against its neighbour on Monday. Cambodia’s influential former leader Hun Sen said his country had retaliated against Thailand, after Phnom Penh denied firing back for two days. This week’s clashes are the most deadly since the neighbours engaged in five days of intense combat in July that killed dozens of people and displaced around 300,000 before a truce took effect. Tens of thousands of people have evacuated from border regions since the fresh fighting began on Sunday, officials said. Cambodian Poan Hay, 55, said she left her home in Oddar Meanchey province on Monday as soon as she heard gunfire – the fourth time she evacuated this year due to on-and-off fighting on the frontier. “I am so angry at the Thai army, but I ask them to stop firing at

Displaced Thais queueing for food at a shelter in Buriram province yesterday. – REUTERSPIC

yesterday his country had retaliated after remaining “patient for more than 24 hours in order to respect the ceasefire and for time to evacuate people to safety”. “Now we fight in order to defend ourselves again,” he said. – AFP

unmanned drones to provoke Thai forces. Early yesterday, he said Thai forces “launched a military operation to drive them out”. Cambodia’s Senate president and former prime minister, Hun Sen, said

conference that Thai forces recently detected Cambodian troops, settlements and several weapon bases in a disputed coastal area of Trat province. Parat accused Cambodia of escalating tensions by deploying

Orangutans flee Sumatra floods SIPIROK: Before the deadly landslides and floods hit Indonesia about two weeks ago, Amran Siagian, 39, frequently met Tapanuli orangutans on a hill in Sipirok, North Sumatra. Siagian, who has been working as a ranger to protect the endangered animal at the Orangutan Information Centre (OIC) for five years, remembers how the orangutans were fond of eating durian and other fruits from farms. But after the landslides hit Sipirok, the orangutans are nowhere to be seen. The cyclone-induced floods and landslides have killed 962 people as of yesterday, with 291 listed as missing. “They must have moved away. I can no longer hear their voices,” Siagian said. Local leaders and green groups said deforestation linked to mining and logging aggravated the impact of the floods and landslides. In Sipirok, a village in the region of South Tapanuli, which was among the hardest hit by the disaster, large trees appear to have been cut down. Siagian said a company had been logging in the area for at least a year. The deforestation had affected the orangutans even before the floods, he said. “The orangutans live by moving between forest canopy, from branch to branch. If the forest is sparse, it must be difficult for them,” Siagian said. OIC founder Panud Hadisiswoyo said there were about 760 orangutans living in Tapanuli. “The major threat is the loss of forest due to plantations and extractive industry,” he said. Around 119,000 orangutans live in Indonesia and Malaysia, according to World Wildlife Fund. “If there is no government help, the orangutans could go extinct here. Especially with this massive deforestation,” Siagian said. – Reuters

Asiatic lions roar back at Gir National Park GIR NATIONAL PARK: A powerful roar rocked the forest before the silhouette of a lioness appeared at an Indian reserve, a potent image of how conservation efforts have brought the creatures back from the brink. The Asiatic lion, slightly smaller than their African cousins, and identified by a fold of skin along its belly, historically roamed from the Middle East to India.

give them prey, then they do extremely well,” said Andrew Loveridge, from global wild cat conservation organisation Panthera. In 2008, they were removed from the IUCN Red List of species threatened with extinction, and moved to the category of merely “endangered”. Unlike in Africa, poaching is virtually absent. “The local people support the conservation of Asian lions,” Nala said, reporting zero cases of poaching for more than a decade. “These are our lions,” his deputy Prashant Tomas said. “People are possessive about them.” Local communities fiercely protect the lions for cultural, religious and economic reasons, because they attract tourists. Loveridge said that people accepted some livestock would be lost. “In general, they’re less likely to kill the lions in retaliation for livestock losses, which is something that is prevalent in many sites in Africa,” he said. “Indian wildlife managers have managed to contain that conflict, to a large degree – in many ways, that’s their secret to success.” But rising numbers mean lions now roam far beyond the park. About half the lion population ranges across 30,000 sq km, and livestock killings have soared, from 2,605 in 2019-20 to 4,385 in 2023-24. There are no official figures on attacks on humans, though experts estimate there are around 25 annually. Occasionally, an attack hits the headlines, such as in August, when a lion killed a five-year-old child. And, despite their increasing population, the species remains vulnerable due to limited genetic diversity and concentration in one region. Venkatraman described the lions as a “flagship of conservation”. “That means because you save them, you also save the biodiversity around.” – AFP

By the early 20th century, only about 20 remained, nearly wiped out by hunting and habitat loss. “They’ve been resurrected from the brink of extinction,” said wildlife biologist Meena Venkatraman. After India broke free from British rule in 1947, a prince offered “his” lions sanctuary. In recent decades, the authorities have invested heavily by protecting vegetation, securing wells and roads, and even building a hospital. “The thing about lions is that if you give them space, and you protect them and you

In Gir National Park, Asiatic lions reign over a 1,900 sq km expanse of savannah and acacia and teak forests, their last refuge. Gir’s success stems from more than three decades of rigorous conservation to expand the lions’ range, which now raises questions about the future of coexistence with humans. Park chief Ramratan Nala celebrates the “huge success”: lion numbers have risen by a third in five years, from 627 to 891. “It’s a matter of pride for us,” Nala said, the head of government forests in Junagadh district of the western state of Gujarat.

A lioness resting after a kill in Gir National Park . – AFPPIC