01/01/2026

THURSDAY JAN 1, 2026

Lt-Jen Azhan Md Othman named new Army chief Chief of Defence Forces appointment on hold pending probe, says Defence minister.

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Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY

Report on — page 5

SCAN ME No. 9020 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

Education Ministry urged to set up Crisis Management Division to address emerging and critical issues in more structured, coordinated and systematic manner. Restore balance, authority and sustainability in teaching profession: NUTP Report on — page 2

Four-month-old boy youngest liver transplant recipient in M’sia Report UMMC team performs intricate organ operation made more challenging due to baby’s small size and cardiac complications. on — page 4

Report on — page 6

HELLO 2026 ... As Malaysia got ready to ring in the New Year, two visitors took wefies in front of the Visit Malaysia 2026 arch in Jalan Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur yesterday. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

Long road to safety Report on h page 3 An expert warns that deadly crashes, transport incidents of 2025 not isolated tragedies but symptoms of systemic failures that remain largely unaddressed.

THURSDAY | JAN 1, 2026

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Some sweet deals M’sians can expect in 2026

KUALA LUMPUR: For Malaysians, 2026 will bring more than resolutions, it will bring changes that affect daily life, from how children go to school and families plan their spending, to how citizens navigate the digital world and interact with law enforcement. It also marks the launch of the 13th Malaysia Plan, a five-year blueprint shaping the nation’s economy, society and overall wellbeing. 0 Back-to-school in January After almost three years of Covid-19 disruptions, the academic calendar for national and government-aided schools returns to its usual January start. For Group A states (Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu), the school year runs from Jan 11 to Dec 31. Group B states (Johor, Malacca, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Penang, Sabah, Sarawak, Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya) begin on Jan 12 and end on Dec 31. 0 Early school assistance Approximately 5.2 million government school students will receive RM150 each under the early school assistance programme, with RM800 million allocated. Disbursement will be facilitated through schools and teachers to parents. 0 Streamlined MRSM and SBP admissions Starting January, applications for Mara Junior Science College and Full Boarding School will be streamlined. Applicants may apply to both, but only one offer will be granted to prevent duplication. 0 Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) The tourism sector expects a major boost with VM2026, themed “Malaysia Truly Asia” and “Surreal Experiences,” offering opportunities for tourists to explore Malaysia’s rich culture, heritage and natural beauty. Budget 2026 allocates over RM700 million to tourism promotion, including RM500 million for VM2026 campaigns and RM60 million for the Tourism and Cultural Promotion, Marketing and Event Organisation Incentive Fund. This is expected to benefit small traders, local entrepreneurs and rural communities. 0 Domestic tourism incentive To encourage domestic travel, individual taxpayers can claim up to RM1,000 in tax relief for domestic tourism expenses, subject to conditions, to support local spending ahead of VM2026. 0 E-invoice and tax reliefs Starting Jan 1, micro, small and medium enterprises with annual income under RM1 million are exempt from mandatory e-invoices, easing the digital compliance burden. The Inland Revenue Board will phase in the Stamp Duty Self Assessment System beginning Jan 1, 2026, covering certain

instruments first, property transfer documents in 2027 and remaining categories in 2028. Lifestyle tax relief of up to RM2,500 per year has been expanded to include purchases of eco-friendly devices such as food waste composting machines. Early childhood education fees relief of up to RM3,000 now covers registered day care and transit centres for children up to the age of six years. Tax relief for expenses related to children with disabilities (under 18) rises from RM6,000 to RM10,000. 0 Civil servants and judges Phase 2 of the Public Service Remuneration System salary adjustment takes effect on Jan 22, offering a 15% increase for the Implementation Group and Management & Professional Group and a 7% increase for the Top Management Group. Judges’ salaries, which had not increased since 2015, will rise by up to 30% from today to strengthen judicial independence and integrity. 0 Public welfare The Basic Rahmah Contribution of RM100 will be distributed to 22 million Malaysians aged 18 and above in February, totalling RM2 billion to support preparations for Ramadan and Chinese New Year celebrations. 0 Digital security and online safety From today, internet messaging and social media platforms with more than 8 million users must register as ASP(C) License holders under Section 46A of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. The Online Safety Act also comes into effect, addressing consumer protection, cyber fraud, online exploitation and threats from AI and deepfake technology. 0 Media Innovation Fund Phase 1 of the Media Innovation Fund opens from today to Jan 14, offering RM30 million to support transformation in the media industry, ensuring relevance and resilience in the digital era, as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during National Journalists’ Day 2025. 0 Law enforcement updates The Community Service Order Act, effective today, provides an alternative to traditional punishment, emphasising rehabilitation and social responsibility. Individuals who litter or spit in public could face fines up to RM2,000 and more than 12 hours of community service over six months. As Malaysia enters 2026, these initiatives – spanning education, tourism, taxation, digital regulation, public welfare and law enforcement – underscore the government’s focus on sustainable growth, social equity and the safety of its citizens. – Bernama

Call for reforms within teaching profession Fouzi proposed the ministry consider a four-day academic learning week, complemented by one day dedicated to character development and co-curricular activities to support holistic student development without compromising academic learning. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

In line with this, Fouzi proposed that the ministry consider a four-day academic learning week, complemented by one day dedicated to character development and co-curricular activities to support holistic student development without compromising academic learning. “NUTP strongly advocates for a comprehensive teacher and student wellbeing policy that restores schools to an environment free from unnecessary pressure, in which teaching and learning could take place in a calm and conducive climate. “This could only be achieved by eliminating non-core burdens that fall outside teachers’ primary professional responsibilities.” Echoing these concerns, primary school headmistress Jamilah Mohamad Hanipah said priority must be given to teachers’ welfare and professionalism, adding that a well-supported teaching workforce is essential for delivering quality education. She highlighted the importance of reducing administrative workloads and non-teaching responsibilities, allowing educators to dedicate their full attention and energy to teaching and learning in the classroom. “There is also a need for continuous professional development that is relevant to current educational demands, particularly in areas such as digital literacy, innovative teaching strategies and student centred learning approaches.” Jamilah also urged that teachers be actively involved in policymaking, saying their insights are crucial to ensuring reforms are realistic and deliver positive outcomes in schools.

assessment-related documentation, student attendance and marking students’ work,” he said, adding that programmes initiated by agencies outside the ministry should not place undue pressure on teachers, as this disrupts core educational responsibilities. He said teachers today are facing immense emotional and professional pressure, particularly in managing student discipline and emotional well-being. Fouzi also said schools are increasingly confronted with serious issues such as bullying, social misconduct, including sexual violence and harassment, student deaths and health-related challenges such as the influenza A outbreak. “The uncontrolled use of social media among students has also contributed to behavioural and moral issues, further compounded by an ongoing shortage of teachers that places added strain on existing educators.” While acknowledging and appreciating initiatives already implemented by the ministry to ease teachers’ workload, he emphasised that further improvements are necessary, particularly in reducing clerical tasks and strengthening information and communication technology infrastructure within the ministry. “Weak or inefficient systems continue to contribute to emotional stress among teachers and must be addressed comprehensively. “The principle of ‘teachers enjoying teaching and students enjoying learning’ must be embedded within the education system. Education should be balanced, nurturing students emotionally, physically and spiritually.”

o Non-core tasks have diverted

PETALING JAYA: As schools grapple with increasingly complex social and behavioural challenges, growing concern over the welfare of teachers has sparked renewed calls for systemic reforms to restore balance, authority and sustainability within the profession. National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) secretary-general Fouzi Singon has urged the Education Ministry to establish a dedicated crisis management division to address emerging and critical issues in a more structured, coordinated and systematic manner. He said schools are now confronting a widening range of challenges, including disciplinary and emotional issues among students, underscoring the need for a comprehensive review of existing disciplinary policies. “This includes discussions on restoring greater professional autonomy for teachers in managing classroom discipline, with clear guidelines in place.” He also called for a reduction in non-teaching administrative duties, adding that clerical and non-core tasks have increasingly diverted the attention of teachers from their primary responsibilities. “Teachers should be allowed to focus on teaching and learning, educators from main responsibilities: NUTP Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

THURSDAY | JAN 1, 2026

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Beyond enforcement, rivers need community care: NGO PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s tougher stance on littering and river pollution may deter offenders in the short term but environmental advocates warn that fines and enforcement alone will not bring about the cultural shift needed to protect the nation’s waterways. Instead, they argue that lasting change depends on a combination of community ownership, systemic reform and sustained public education – without which enforcement risks becoming a blunt tool that delivers compliance without care. Klang River Festival (KRF) co-creator Faith Foo said public awareness about littering and its environmental impact has improved over the years, but has yet to translate into consistent, long-term behavioural change. “Public awareness of littering has definitely increased, but not to the point of a true cultural tipping point.” While more Malaysians now recognise the environmental damage caused by littering, Foo noted that responsibility for waste management is still often treated as an afterthought rather than a shared social obligation. He said meaningful progress requires continuous reminders of why river protection matters, alongside clearer and more visible ways for people to practise responsible waste habits in their daily lives. Foo also said visible collective action remains one of the strongest catalysts for change. “When people see communities working together and building momentum, it reinforces the idea that individual efforts are meaningful and can be adapted into personal lifestyles.” On enforcement, Foo cautioned that punitive approaches could backfire if they are not aligned with community values or supported by local voices. He said enforcement mechanisms must foster a sense of shared ownership over public spaces, rather than alienate the very communities they aim to protect. Foo added that KRF plans to continue its year-round river care initiatives, building on programmes such as the Klang River Fellows initiative, which engages secondary school students in environmental stewardship. Looking ahead, he said reducing waste at the source remains Malaysia’s most urgent priority. KRF community architect Scarlet Koon echoed the call for broader public responsibility, stressing that river protection goes far beyond compliance with laws. “Ninety-seven per cent of our water comes from rivers and it affects every aspect of our lives. There are fines and enforcement because there is no strong culture of caring yet. Rivers should not be protected by small groups alone – they should be cared for by 100% of the people.” Hara Makers co-founder and CEO Hung Bee Ling highlighted the role of systems in shaping individual behaviour, noting that while personal responsibility matters, people’s choices are heavily influenced by the environments they live in. “Waste builds up fast with overpackaging and our single-use culture. Even with good intentions, if the system doesn’t change, the waste problem won’t either.” Hung said community service penalties can be effective only if they go beyond punishment and are designed as learning experiences, adding that old habits often return once enforcement eases. Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Deadly crashes expose systemic road safety failures

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL nresdesk@thesundaily.com

o Heavy vehicles remain major threat with collisions every 36 hours, pointing to poor coordination and weak enforcement as M’sia enters the new year: Expert

management, bureaucratic silos and an over-reliance on blaming ‘driver error’. A truly systemic approach – including mandatory advanced braking systems, fatigue monitoring and safer road design – requires sustained funding and long-term coordination, which often wanes once public attention fades.” Looking ahead to 2026, Law outlined three key priorities: continuous safety compliance for commercial vehicles through telematics and regulated driving hours; intelligence-led enforcement targeting high-risk operators and corridors; and adoption of a ‘safe system’ approach that shifts accountability from drivers to companies and system designers. “If reforms continue at the current pace, Malaysia risks serious safety and economic consequences,” he said, citing the annual cost of road crashes and the statistical value of a life at RM3.12 million. Poor safety performance could also undermine national initiatives such as Visit Malaysia 2026, as tourists increasingly prioritise safe and reliable transport, he said, adding that without decisive structural reforms, Malaysia risks entering yet another year in which tragedy – rather than prevention – drives road safety policy.

PETALING JAYA: As Malaysia enters 2026, the deadly crashes and transport incidents of 2025 were not isolated tragedies but signs of systemic failures that remain largely unaddressed, a road safety expert said. Analysing last year’s trends, Universiti Putra Malaysia Road Safety Research Centre head Assoc Prof Dr Law Teik Hua said the country is grappling with a “software problem” in managing road risks, pointing to weak coordination, poor communication and fragmented enforcement. “Serious incidents in 2025 exposed communication gaps between government departments, road contractors and operators. “These shortcomings were evident in inadequate signage at road works and the failure to properly alert road users to potential hazards,” he said. While mortality rates for some categories of road users have stabilised, Law said heavy vehicles remain a persistent and serious threat. “Lorry-related crashes occurring, on average, every 36 hours raise serious doubts about whether heavy vehicle safety is Universiti Putra Malaysia Civil Engineering Department head Assoc Prof Dr Fauzan Mohd Jakarni said these were not random mishaps, but symptoms of deeper weaknesses in planning and maintenance culture. “Roads and drains are not supposed to behave like drama series with weekly episodes, but that’s what happened. “Potholes reappear after patching, drains work only when it’s not raining and floods show up like uninvited guests who already know the shortcut. The pattern points to a culture that is still too reactive – fix after complaints, fix after viral videos, fix after failures – instead of planned preventive maintenance.” Concrete examples last year showed how small defects can trigger major disruption. “A stop-work order after flash floods and a mudslide in Seberang Perai last September highlighted how weak earthwork control, poor temporary drainage and inconsistent compliance can quickly escalate into public impact. “Planning must include long-term upkeep, maintenance must be a core KPI (key performance indicator) and enforcement must be consistent – because in infrastructure, the ‘small stuff’ usually becomes the headline.”

data from 2025 underscores the scale of the problem, with only about 32% of commercial vehicle operators complying with safety procedures. “Regulatory gaps allow drivers with repeated violations to remain on the road, while vehicles with defective brakes or tyres continue operating due to fragmented inspection regimes. “A system without real-time tracking or an overarching compliance framework shifts the risks entirely onto other road users,” he said, adding that enforcement suffers from a “diffusion of responsibility, a lack of deterrence and weak accountability”. Law said Malaysia has become overly reliant on reactive measures such as short-term enforcement drives and temporary safety campaigns, rather than embedding long-term preventive policies. “This pattern persists because of politically driven crisis

being adequately managed on national roads,” he said. He added that enforcement and monitoring mechanisms for commercial transport are weak, allowing high-risk operators to continue operating with limited accountability. “Although bodies such as the Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board, along with vehicle inspection codes and safety frameworks, exist on paper, enforcement is inconsistent. This weakens regulatory oversight and enables transport operators to flout safety standards with little fear of consequences.” Law said Malaysia’s continued reliance on checkpoint-style enforcement reflects a reactive, rather than preventive, approach to road safety. “The emphasis remains on intermittent vehicle stops instead of continuous, technology-driven monitoring,” he said, adding that

2026 – year to rethink road and infrastructure upkeep PETALING JAYA: From flash floods to crumbling roads, 2025 tested Malaysia’s infrastructure like an unplanned stress test, exposing gaps in maintenance, planning and enforcement that must be addressed in 2026, said an academic.

Fauzan said potholes and cracks like these show why Malaysia must rethink infrastructure maintenance as small defects can become major hazards. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

Fauzan said Malaysia often prioritises shiny new projects over maintaining existing infrastructure. “New projects are easy to launch and photograph. Maintenance is the opposite – if done well, nobody notices. Yet that ‘silent success’ is exactly what keeps roads, drains, culverts and public amenities reliable.” The Works Ministry estimated RM327.8 million would be needed to repair last year’s (2025) damage linked to the Northeast Monsoon – a stark reminder that deferred maintenance turns routine upkeep into emergency spending. Fauzan also warned that climate change is making infrastructure more vulnerable.

scheduled culvert inspections and condition ratings for hidden assets are essential.” Consistent enforcement on construction sites is also critical, said Fauzan, adding that delays in reform have direct consequences for safety, cost and quality of life. “Small defects can turn into hazards. Cracks become potholes, weak shoulders become collapses, tired culverts become sinkholes. One rainy day can trigger closures and risky diversions. Let 2026 be about ensuring existing infrastructure works reliably under real weather, real traffic and with real lives depending on it.” – By Harith Kamal

“Extreme rainfall turns small weaknesses into big disruptions. When drains, inlets and culverts are undersized, clogged or poorly maintained, they fail to manage water properly and effectively act as storage.” Fauzan said preventing a repeat in 2026 requires systemic reforms in procurement, design standards and maintenance practices. “Procurement must stop buying the cheapest promise and start buying performance. Design standards need a reality check for extreme weather. “Maintenance must move from ‘only after complaints’ to ‘before it goes viral’. Routine drain cleaning,

THURSDAY | JAN 1, 2026

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Actions of Muhyiddin point to outside influence: Chegubard

PETALING JAYA: A four-month-old boy weighing just 6.2kg has made medical history as Malaysia’s youngest and lightest liver transplant recipient, thanks to a multidisciplinary team at the University of Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC). In a statement, the hospital said the high-risk procedure performed on Nov 25 faced a life-threatening moment even before the surgery began. Consultant hepatobiliary surgeon Assoc Prof Dr Koh Peng Soon described the operation as particularly challenging due to the baby’s small size and pre-surgery cardiac complications. He was quoted in the statement as saying: “This case proves that with a cohesive team and rapid clinical decisions, we can achieve the best outcomes for the patient’s life”. UMMC said the successful completion of the complex paediatric liver transplant demonstrates Malaysia’s growing capability in handling intricate organ surgeries. Born healthy as the youngest in his family, the baby’s condition suddenly deteriorated due to liver failure of unknown cause. He was first treated at the Muar Hospital before being urgently referred to UMMC, where a liver transplant became his only chance of survival. “The liver donor was the patient’s biological mother, a 38-year-old Vietnamese woman and mother of five children, including two from a previous marriage residing in Vietnam. Out of maternal love, she voluntarily stepped forward as a living donor to give her child a second chance at life. “On the day of the surgery, while the mother was in the operating theatre for organ retrieval, the baby suddenly collapsed and became unresponsive in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).” The surgery on the mother was immediately halted and the PICU team performed aggressive resuscitation for more than an hour to save the baby. “Thanks to the medical team’s expertise, his condition was stabilised, allowing the surgery to resume once he was fully under control.” UMMC said the patient’s family, from a middle-income background, struggled to cover the cost of the procedure, but financial assistance from the CCEP Foundation (a charity NGO) ensured the life-saving treatment could proceed without obstacles. The hospital emphasised that the success was due to close collaboration among multiple specialists, marking it as one of the most complex paediatric liver surgeries ever performed, given the patient’s young age, small size and critically unstable condition. The teams involved included the PICU, paediatric gastroenterology and hepatology, hepatopancreatobiliary surgery specialists, paediatric surgery specialists, plastic surgery specialists, radiology specialists and the nursing team. Landmark liver transplant successfully done on infant Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o ‘Manner in which resignation was handled risks deepening internal divisions’

Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

coalition’s direction and leadership ahead of upcoming state elections and the 16th general election. Badrul said the manner in which the resignation was handled risks deepening internal divisions at a time when unity is crucial. “This is not a time to act out of ego. This is a critical moment,” he said, urging Muhyiddin to engage in discussions with coalition partners. “Sit at the same table. If you want to resign, that’s fine, but discuss it properly.” He emphasised that leadership transitions within PN should be managed through consensus, not unilateral decisions that could destabilise the coalition. He also criticised what he described as the circulation of false letters and misinformation allegedly linked to individuals aligned with Muhyiddin, which had dragged other political parties into the controversy. “Suddenly fake letters are being circulated. Pejuang was dragged into this without reason. “Claims were made that Pejuang would join PN, that Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad would be appointed PN chairman. All of this is slander.” He said while Pejuang had long sought entry into PN, the party had never been formally accepted, extends beyond its Malay voter base, highlighting PAS’s image among non-Malays as a key factor that could influence the coalition’s overall public support. He added that as long as PAS is perceived as unwilling or unable to share power with non-Malays, PN’s appeal in urban constituencies would remain limited. His remarks came in response to questions on the impact of former PN chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s resignation on the coalition’s ability to unseat the Madani government led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. When asked whether Muhyiddin resigned under pressure from outside Bersatu, Afif avoided a direct answer but pointed to PAS as an

KUALA LUMPUR: Bersatu Port Dickson division chief Badrul Hisham Shaharin alleged that former Perikatan Nasional (PN) chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s recent decisions suggest he may be acting under the influence of forces outside the coalition. Popularly known as Chegubard, Badrul claimed that Muhyiddin’s resignation as PN chairman, combined with the sudden departures of fellow Bersatu leaders seen as loyal to him, reflects arrogance and external interference rather than collective leadership within the coalition. “He may resign, that is his right. But he should not instruct his followers to resign as well.” Commenting on the recent upheaval within the opposition bloc, Badrul told reporters the alleged behaviour gives the impression that someone outside PN is in control. Badrul spoke at a press conference alongside Parti Pejuang Tanah Air (Pejuang) information chief Muhammad Rafique Rashid Ali in front of Bukit Aman yesterday. Muhyiddin on Monday announced that he would step down as chairman effective today, raising questions about the PETALING JAYA: Insiders say the road to the 16th general election (GE16) may be steeper for Perikatan Nasional (PN) if the coalition cannot overcome PAS’s poor standing among non-Malay voters. Bersatu Supreme Council member Dr Afif Bahardin said the challenge is particularly acute in west coast states such as Selangor, where urban and non-Malay voters play a decisive role in shaping electoral outcomes. “The people want leadership. If this is not clearly offered ahead of the state elections and the general election, PN’s prospects would undoubtedly be affected,” he told theSun . Afif, who is also Taman Medan assemblyman, said PN’s challenge

Badrul emphasised that leadership transitions within PN should be managed through consensus, not unilateral decisions that could destabilise the coalition. – SUNPIC

making such claims questionable. “People should think calmly. How much falsehood is being spread? This is not healthy politics.” Badrul acknowledged that certain individuals may have vested interests or were allegedly being paid to stir confusion, but called on party members and supporters to remain patient and composed.

“We must build a team to save the nation. Unity, not personal ambition, must come first.” Following Muhyiddin’s announcement, several Bersatu leaders also stepped down from their posts, including Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, who resigned as PN secretary-general and Selangor PN chairman.

The current political climate demanded collective leadership rather than dominance by any single individual, he added, while calling for a united political front capable of addressing national challenges. ‘Non-Malay voter perception crucial for PN in GE16’ Three other state PN chiefs – Johor PN chief Datuk Dr Sahruddin Jamal, Perak PN chief Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu and Negeri Sembilan PN chief Mohamad Hanifah Abu Bakar – also vacated their positions effective today.

political developments in Perlis, where the menteri besar post is now held by Kuala Perlis assemblyman Abu Bakar Hamzah from Bersatu, following the withdrawal of support for the previous menteri besar, Mohd Shukri Ramli by several PN assemblymen. Meanwhile, Bersatu information chief Datuk Tun Faisal Ismail Aziz said the party remains reluctant to nominate any PN chairman other than Muhyiddin. “Bersatu will only nominate Muhyiddin. There has been no change in that decision. “For now, Bersatu Supreme Council members respect Tan Sri’s decision, but have asked him to reconsider his resignation.” – By Ikhwan Zulkaflee

alleged source of such pressure. “You have to ask Afnan Hamimi Azamudden (PAS Youth chief) and Ahmad Fadhli Shaari (PAS information chief).” The comments reflect ongoing tensions within PN as the coalition reassesses its leadership structure and electoral strategy ahead of state elections and GE16, amid concerns that internal dynamics and public perception could weaken its competitiveness against the ruling bloc. Relations between Bersatu and PAS have long been strained, beginning with their failure to agree on a prime ministerial candidate for the opposition bloc ahead of the next general election. The situation worsened after

Feb 1 to be gazetted as dual holiday for Thaipusam, FT Day

KUALA LUMPUR: The federal government has gazetted Feb 1, 2026, as a dual public holiday for Thaipusam and Federal Territory Day, Bernama reported. The Peninsular Malaysia Labour Department announced that Federal Territory Day is a mandatory,

consent, an employer may grant a different day as a paid holiday in lieu, in accordance with Subsection 60D (1A). “Employees who are ordered to work on either public holiday are entitled to holiday pay at the rate specified in Section 60D (3).”

Sunday must grant a replacement holiday on Monday. “For employers who select Thaipusam as one of their six optional holidays under the Act, a replacement must be given on Tuesday, as the two holidays coincide.” Alternatively, with employee

non-substitutable for private-sector employers in the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan, as stipulated under Section 60D (1) (a) (iii) of the Employment Act 1955. “As the date falls on a Sunday, employers whose weekly rest day is holiday

THURSDAY | JAN 1, 2026

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‘Money-laundering scandal may be shielded by higher ups’

Foreign worker dies in landslide KOTA TINGGI: An Indonesian man died after being buried three metres deep in a landslide while carrying out installation works on a septic tank in Bandar Penawar on Tuesday. Senior operations commander and assistant fire Supt Mohd Khairul Sufian Dahari said the 52-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene in front of a factory under construction. He said a nine-member team was despatched in a fire rescue tender vehicle following an emergency call at 1pm. “Two plumbing workers were buried. However, a 32-year-old local man managed to escape. The other victim was buried under the soil.” – Bernama Women fined for market fight KOTA BHARU: Five women from two families were each fined RM1,000 after pleading guilty at the Magistrate’s Court here yesterday to committing affray at the Melor public market on Dec 25. Rozita Ramli, 47, along with her daughter Aleeya Maisara Hasbullah, 19, and daughter-in-law Siti Nor Bakyah Abdullah, 19, as well as Siti Sara Suaini, 30, and her younger sister Siti Mastura Suaini, 28, were charged under Section 160 of the Penal Code. The offence carries a penalty of up to six months’ jail, a fine of RM1,000, or both. A widely spread video showing a fight at the Melor market led to the arrest of 12 individuals. – Bernama KUALA LUMPUR: A religious school teacher pleaded guilty at the Sessions Court here yesterday to three charges of committing physical sexual assault against two male pupils. The accused, a 40-year-old Indonesian named Kumpul, is charged as a person in a position of trust, with committing physical sexual assault against the boys, who were 11 years and seven months old and 10 years old at the time of the offences. The offences were committed at a religious primary school in Wangsa Maju here between April 2024 and November 2025. He is charged under sections 14(a) GEORGE TOWN: Three Chinese nationals were charged in the Magistrate’s Court here yesterday for allegedly trafficking 26kg of drugs two weeks ago. Xie Zhouji, 38, Zhang Mea, 32, and Chen Cheng, 36, nodded in understanding after the charges were read before magistrate Nadratun Naim Mohd Saidi. However, no plea was recorded as the case falls under the jurisdiction of the High Court. According to the charges, the men are accused of jointly trafficking 26kg

o Politician submits information to police and MACC, wants decisive action Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

KUALA LUMPUR: Armed Forces Headquarters chief of staff Lieutenant-General Datuk Azhan Md Othman has been appointed as the 31st army chief, effective today. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the appointment was made in accordance with the decision of the 631st Armed Forces Council meeting held on Nov 19 and was consented to by His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim on Dec 1. “The appointment is expected to strengthen the leadership of the army and enhance the operational capability of the armed forces in meeting current and future Responsibility Centre. He said he has submitted detailed information to police and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, but expressed frustration over what he described as a lack of decisive action, questioning why accounts believed to be actively receiving funds were yet to be frozen. “Investigating bank accounts is simple. You freeze them first. But the most active account receiving the money has not been frozen. People are just talking, but nothing is happening,” he said. Badrul also called for the immediate suspension of an army senior, arguing that merely going on leave would be insufficient given the seriousness of the allegations. “He should be suspended so that he cannot clean up or erase any trail,” he said. He raised concerns about the practicality and integrity of any investigation if the individual were summoned while still in office. Badrul claimed that the scandal has long been an “open secret” within the armed forces. He also criticised the lack of transparency regarding “safe houses” linked to the case, contrasting it with past high-profile investigations. “In other cases, everything was disclosed: locations, quantities,

KUALA LUMPUR: Bersatu Port Dickson chief Badrul Hisham Shaharim has alleged that a money-laundering scandal involving senior army officials may be part of an organised network protected by “the higher ups”. Speaking to the press, Badrul, widely known as Chegubard, said the matter goes beyond individual wrongdoing, suggesting that powerful figures within the military hierarchy may have provided protection to those involved. “This is not an individual crime. This is organised crime, protected by those in higher positions,” he claimed, adding that such protection could explain why the alleged perpetrators reportedly used personal bank accounts to receive funds. Badrul was speaking during a press conference with lawyer Muhammad Rafique Rashid Ali in front of the Bukit Aman police headquarters yesterday. The allegations follow Badrul’s earlier claim of a “large cash flow” in the bank accounts of a senior army officer and several family members. He claimed that the funds are linked to companies securing military projects through the Army

Muhammad Rafique (left) and Badrul at the press conference outside the Bukit Aman police headquarters in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. – IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE/THESUN

instructed a senior armed forces official to go on leave with immediate effect to allow investigations into the allegations of money laundering.

values. Here, it is vague. Why? Because if everything is revealed, the cartel and its protectors will be exposed,” he said. The Defence Ministry recently

New army chief named

Religious school teacher confesses to sexually assaulting pupils

upholding the rule of law and preserving the integrity of the armed forces, while ensuring the nation’s defence preparedness remains at the highest level. Earlier, political activist Badrul Hisham Shaharin, also known as Chegubard, alleged that a senior armed forces officer is suspected of involvement in money laundering activities. Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki later confirmed that an investigation paper has been opened under Section 17(a) of the MACC Act 2009. – Bernama The media previously reported that a group of armed masked men attacked the victims at 4.30pm, allegedly over a debt issue. A 59-year-old man died due to severe slash wounds to the head while two other men, who were seriously injured, were taken to the Sungai Bakap Hospital. Several videos circulating on social media showed the injured victims, including one in critical condition, believed to have been hurt in the assault. – Bernama

defence requirements.” He said the implementation of the decision to appoint General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan as defence force chief has been deferred. He also said Muhammad Hafizuddeain has been directed to go on leave to facilitate investigations by authorities into allegations that have been reported involving him. “The duties of defence force chief will be assumed by navy chief Admiral Tan Sri Zulhelmy Ithnain, as announced on Dec 27.” Mohamed Khaled said the measures taken were aimed at

and 16(1) of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017. Section 14(a) carries up to 20 years’ jail and is punishable with caning while Section 16(1) prescribes up to five years’ jail and not less than two strokes of the cane. DPP Siti Pervinah Mohamad Yusof did not offer bail, saying Kumpul posed a flight risk and citing immigration records showing discrepancies in his passport information.

Judge Noridah Adam denied bail and set Jan 5 and 21 for the presentation of facts and sentencing. The accused was unrepresented. – Bernama Chinese nationals face drug charges

Police detain two men for murder NIBONG TEBAL: Police have detained two men to assist in an investigation into a fatal attack at a Sungai Bakap restaurant on Tuesday, in which a group of masked men armed with sharp weapons killed one man and injured two others. the attack. “The detained men are assisting with the case, which has been classified as murder under Section 302 of the Penal Code.“ Based on preliminary

of methamphetamine at the Adorna Gold Complex apartment at 10pm on Dec 20. They are charged under Section 39B(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, which carries the death penalty or life imprisonment and not less than 12 strokes of the cane upon conviction. DPP Ahmad Danial Amir Saad did not offer bail. The court agreed to deny bail and fixed Feb 25 for the next mention, pending the chemistry report. – Bernama

investigations, the victims were attacked by more than 15 masked men wielding sharp weapons. Azizie said police are appealing for the public’s cooperation, urging anyone with information about the incident to share it with the nearest police station.

Penang police chief Datuk Azizee Ismail said the men were detained in the state several hours after the incident. He said the investigation includes pursuing several other suspects and determining the exact motive for

THURSDAY | JAN 1, 2026

/thesuntelegram FOLLOW / Malaysian Paper

ON TELEGRAM m RAM

6

Visit Malaysia 2026 to offer

Seremban mural alley hailed as longest in country

high-value tourism KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia today ushers in Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), kicking off a large-scale national tourism campaign to cement its position as a premier travel destination in the region. VM2026 is being positioned as a new economic driver, aiming to boost domestic and international arrivals through high-value travel experiences. Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry secretary-general Datuk Shaharuddin Abu Sohot said the campaign is designed to fully leverage Malaysia’s core strengths, its cultural diversity, natural assets and heritage, while reinforcing the “Malaysia Truly Asia” brand on the global stage. “The main focus of VM2026 is to attract quality visitors through experiential tourism offerings, while ensuring inclusive growth and benefits for local communities nationwide.” VM2026 is targeting 47 million international tourist arrivals while continuing to recognise the important contribution of domestic tourists. In 2026, more than 300 major events would be organised under the VM2026 Calendar of Events, including the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia, Rainforest World Music Festival and the Malaysia Agriculture, Horticulture and Agrotourism Exhibition. Shaharuddin said Malaysia would also welcome the new year with special celebrations at 55 international entry points and major transport hubs nationwide in conjunction with the official launch of VM2026, including the VM2026 Countdown Festival on Dec 31, 2025 at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. Shaharuddin said VM2026 focuses on “Sustainable Destinations” and “Culturally Rich” experiences, showcasing natural wonders. He also said the campaign supports wildlife conservation and protection efforts. Beyond its natural attractions, VM2026 highlights the richness of Malaysia’s cultural heritage and diverse way of life, including Unesco World Heritage Sites in George Town and Malacca, alongside traditional arts and crafts, such as batik, songket, pewterware and woodcarving. In positioning Malaysia as an “Affordable Luxury Destination”, Shaharuddin said shopping campaigns, such as the Malaysia Mega Sale Campaign and Malaysia Year-End Sale, would be held to boost visitor spending. To ensure service quality, Tourism Malaysia remains focused on strengthening quality tourism initiatives that encourage longer stays, higher spending and deeper visitor engagement. These efforts include inclusive travel packages for all segments of society including persons with disabilities, such as therapeutic scuba diving programme Diveheart Malaysia. – Bernama

o Local artists creatively reflect culture and people of Negeri Sembilan

Ű BY R. ANBALAGAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

SEREMBAN: A lengthy back alley running behind rows of pre-war shophouses has given this laid-back town a colourful splash of excitement with a kilometre-long outdoor mural art exhibition. Now named Lorong Seni, the stretch was recently recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records as the longest art alley in the country. Zakir Amir Mohd Derus, who coordinated the seven artists involved in the project, said it was carried out in stages over the past five years after the Seremban City Hall came up with the idea to give Seremban a new lease of life. “We were working on an earlier (similar) project at the Seremban City Hall field in Jalan Yam Tuan,” he told theSun . “Our artwork and mural painting there captivated the interest of City Hall and councillors, who wanted to expand and commercialise it in the town area.” The theme for the artwork was debated, discussed and finalised by officials and City Hall councillors. It focuses on local history, traditions and sports, emphasising harmony and multicultural scenes of the local community. Local artists were roped in to authentically reflect the culture and people of Negeri Sembilan. It was implemented in five phases, with each artist allocated a space to showcase their creativity. “We worked under scorching sun and rain to complete the project,” recalled Zakir. “Many curious people observed our work being carried out in the hot sun. They even brought drinks and burgers voluntarily to

The theme for the artwork focuses on local history, traditions and sports, emphasising harmony and multicultural scenes of the local community. – R. ANBALAGAN/THESUN

“To ensure consistency and quality, we would give feedback and discuss among ourselves to make amendments if necessary, especially on the angle of the artwork,” said Zakir. The overall mural was completed in phases based on the budget allocated by City Hall. He described it as a “dream project” to beautify the city with artistic creativity. Seremban mayor Masri Baharuddin had earlier announced that City Hall had spent RM2.5 million for the project, which started in 2019 and was completed in 2024. Seremban City Hall had also decided that Lorong Seni would be closed to vehicles from Friday to Sunday midnight to enable tourists and the public to stroll along the lane and enjoy the art exhibits.

show their support for the artists. “It was a challenging project. When it rained very heavily we had to use a canvas to protect the whole painting. “Sometimes, our paints would go missing when we left them overnight. The store to keep the paints was also broken into.” Before the project began, the surface of the pre-war walls were uneven and the bricks were damaged with wires sticking out at various places. Contractors appointed by City Hall did repair works to smoothen the walls under the artists’ supervision. The old paints were scrapped off with the help of steam while cracks and fine holes were sealed and plastered over. Once the walls were ready, undercoating was applied before the actual artwork started.

THURSDAY | JAN 1, 2026

7

Indonesia’s new criminal code raises red flag

o ‘Public oversight key to prevent abuse’

Final year student Thina gets ready for a performance. – AFPPIC

state ideology face up to four years in jail. The code’s definition of “attacking honour or dignity”, which it says is where a reputation or self worth is damaged, includes actions such as libel or defamation. Legal expert Asfinawati said the definition of insults was among the broad provisions that raised concerns for free speech and activist groups. “This is a new colonial set of laws, made by our own,” she said, adding the expansive nature of the code did not guarantee that officials would properly apply it. Agtas said law officers had been briefed about the code, and along with a separate criminal procedure code, there were guardrails to prevent abuses. – Reuters civilians living in border areas to return home as soon as possible, while Thailand was to return 18 Cambodian soldiers captured in July within 72 hours, if the ceasefire held. Cambodia has said its soldiers were captured by Thai forces on July 29, nearly eight hours after a ceasefire that halted five days of clashes went into effect. The United States, China and Malaysia brokered a truce to end that round of fighting, but the ceasefire was short-lived. US President Donald Trump jetted to Malaysia in October to oversee the signing of a follow-on declaration between Thailand and Cambodia, touting new trade deals after the neighbours agreed to prolong their truce. That pact said that Thailand would “promptly release” the captured Cambodian soldiers, calling them “prisoners of war”. But Bangkok suspended the agreement the following month, after Thai soldiers were wounded by landmines while on patrol at the border. The reignited fighting last month – with artillery, tanks, drones and jets – spread to nearly every border province on both sides. The conflict stems from a territorial dispute over the colonial era demarcation of the 800km Thai Cambodian border, where both sides claim centuries-old temple ruins. While the two nations agreed on Saturday to stop fighting, they still need to resolve the demarcation of their disputed border. – AFP

said. “It’s our own legal system ... different from other countries,” he said. The law criminalises sex outside marriage with a punishment of up to one year in jail, but only if a spouse, parent or child of the alleged offender makes a complaint. Currently, only adultery is a crime in Indonesia. The reporting requirement has eased tourism industry concerns that foreigners could be caught by the law, said Hariyadi Sukamdani, chairman of the Confederation of Indonesia Tourism Association. Insulting the president or state agencies may result in a prison term of as many as three years under the new law, while people disseminating communism or other ideologies “that are against”

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas said the overhaul of the law was timely but acknowledged there was a risk of the new powers being abused. “There will be that,” he said over the phone on Tuesday, referring to potential abuses. “We’re not blind. But what’s important is public control. Anything that’s new will not be immediately perfect.” Decades in the making, the revisions to the code were passed during former president Joko Widodo’s final term. At the time, then-US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Widodo to reconsider some of the provisions. The code was updated to reflect Indonesia’s legal and cultural norms, citing new policies such as a restorative justice system, Agtas

Khmer dance under threat

JAKARTA: new criminal code, which will make crimes of premarital sex and insulting the state when it takes effect tomorrow, will need public oversight to help prevent abuse, said a government minister. The 345-page code was passed in 2022 and replaces laws established during Dutch colonial rule. Its broad definitions drew condemnation from democracy activists concerned it might harm civil liberties and free speech and put government critics at risk of arrest. Indonesia’s

PHNOM PENH: Master classical dancer Penh Yom walks between students, adjusting a finger here and the tilt of a head there, as she passes on an art form. Khmer classical dance is renowned for its graceful hand gestures and stunning costumes, and has a 1,000-year history. It is under threat from a changing media and entertainment landscape, funding and economic challenges. Enrolment in the Secondary School of Fine Arts in Phnom Penh is falling, and many entrants do not complete the gruelling nine-year curriculum. The art form was nearly destroyed when the Khmer Rouge killed almost all the master dancers and musicians during the regime’s less than four years in power. Pol Pot’s cadre considered dancers among the enemies of the people, both educated and representative of a feudal past they wanted to eradicate entirely. Penh Yom, 78, survived by hiding her profession, and after the Khmer Rouge run Democratic Kampuchea fell in 1979, she regrouped with a small troupe of dancers to revive the form. Her own training began in the Royal Palace when she was eight. “Now I am worried that it will disappear,” she said. “We keep urging them to train hard and to help us preserve this art.” Dance performances were originally mounted for court occasions such as coronations or marriages. The Secondary School of Fine Arts has more than 90 dance teachers and is the primary training centre. Pupils attend dance classes in the mornings and follow the standard school curriculum in the afternoons. Tuition is free, but it has slashed the accommodation available to students, and trainers expect many to drop out in the face of educational demands and financial pressures on their families. This year, 39 eight-year-olds registered, little more than half the usual number. A few weeks into the course, the new entrants bent their hands, legs and bodies as trainer Hang Sophea sought to instil the basics. “I have to watch them from hair to toe so that in the future they could be our heirs,” she said. “We remind them not to forget our identity.” Tola Thina, 18, is in her final year at the school and often posts her performances on Facebook, where she has more than 20,000 followers. She said: “This culture is really beautiful and I love it.” – AFP

Thailand frees 18 Cambodian soldiers PHNOM PENH: Thailand released yesterday 18 Cambodian soldiers captured in July, both governments said, after a fresh ceasefire between the neighbours held for more than three days following weeks of border clashes. Thailand’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the repatriation of 18 soldiers, saying it was done “as a demonstration of goodwill and confidence-building”, according to a statement. The Southeast Asian neighbours agreed to a truce on Saturday, ending renewed fighting at their border that killed dozens of people and displaced more than a million last month.

Under the truce, Cambodia and Thailand pledged to cease fire, freeze troop movements and cooperate on demining efforts along their disputed frontier. They also agreed to allow

“I am so happy. I can’t wait to see him. I miss him so much,” said Voeung Vy, the father of one of the returned soldiers. He said he would welcome his son home in Phnom Penh.

“I can confirm that 18 soldiers have arrived on Cambodian soil at 10am (11am in Malaysia),” Information Minister Neth Pheaktra said.

Cambodians in Pailin warmly welcoming home the freed soldiers yesterday. – REUTERSPIC

Myanmar reports 52% voter turnout in first phase of election YANGON: Myanmar said slightly more than half of eligible voters cast their ballot in the first phase of a three-stage national election at the weekend. war. Analysts expect the military aligned Union Solidarity and Development Party, led by retired generals, to be returned to power. had voted on Sunday across 102 townships.

265 of Myanmar’s 330 townships, although the government does not have complete control of all those areas. The legal framework for the election has no minimum voter turnout requirement. – Reuters

Turnout was about 70% in Myanmar’s 2020 and 2015 general elections, according to the US-based nonprofit International Foundation for Electoral Systems. Further rounds of voting will be held on Jan 11 and Jan 25, covering

“Even in developed democratic nations, there are instances where voter turnout does not exceed 50%,” Zaw Min Tun said, saying the turnout was a “source of pride”.

Government spokesperson Zaw Min Tun said more than six million people, or 52.13% of enrolled voters,

The election is the first since a 2021 coup and is taking place during a civil