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Cautious welcome on proposal for premiership cap Measure could curb over-concentration of power but deeper institutional reforms needed to prevent corruption and stagnation, say analysts.

Report on h page 3

Seizure of Maduro blatant breach of

international law: Experts ‘US military operation in Venezuela amounts to direct violation of state sovereignty and territorial integrity – core principles

Plans for Bill to cap PM’s tenure to 10 years among legislative and policy agenda unveiled by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to strengthen governance, boost social welfare, and drive economic and digital reforms. underpinning rules based global order.’ Two-term limit Anwar says the proposed law forms the cornerstone of government’s ongoing institutional reforms. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN Report on h page 4 Report on h page 2

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o Moves aimed at boosting governance, welfare and driving reforms Anwar announces new legislative, policy agenda

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PUTRAJAYA: The government will convene a meeting of all political party leaders to discuss the Bill to cap the prime minister’s tenure at 10 years. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department for Law and Institutional Reform, Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said stated that the meeting will be held in the near future as the Bill is expected to be tabled in this Parliamentary session. “I have to meet all the party leaders so that we can get more than a two-thirds majority. The (prime minister) just mentioned it earlier,“ she told the media after her 2026 New Year Message at the department yesterday. “This is something on which we in the Legal Affairs Division have conducted considerable PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday unveiled a sweeping legislative and policy agenda aimed at strengthening governance, boosting social welfare and driving economic and digital reforms. 0 Prime minister’s tenure to be capped Anwar announced plans to introduce a landmark Bill to limit the prime minister’s tenure to 10 years, or two full terms, under legislation set to be tabled in Parliament this year. Speaking at the monthly assembly of the Prime Minister’s Department, he said the law forms a cornerstone of the government’s ongoing institutional reforms. “Everyone has term limits. The chief secretary to the government cannot serve for ten years. This applies to all, including the Prime Minister’s Department. “Within that period, they could execute (tasks) effectively. Afterwards, it is appropriate to hand over the responsibilities to the next generation. “We will present a law to limit the term to no more than ten years.” Capping the prime minister’s tenure was a key pledge in Pakatan Harapan’s 2018 election manifesto. ombudsman Bills Alongside the tenure-limiting Bill, Anwar said the first laws to be tabled in Parliament this year will include the separation of the attorney general and public prosecutor roles, the establishment of an ombudsman and the Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill. “These measures signal a renewed commitment to accountability, transparency and institutional reform.” On the FOI Bill, he added: “The FOI law will be presented for parliamentary approval in this session or the next. “Matters of national security and risk require exemptions, but all questions about tenders, contracts and projects should avoid misuse of the law.” Regarding the Ombudsman Act, Anwar said it would provide the public with a platform to raise issues, holding officials accountable from the prime minister downwards. “These measures are part of our broader roadmap for legal, institutional and governance reforms.” 0 Social assistance programmes Anwar announced that a RM100 Sumbangan Asas Rahmah aid for all Malaysians aged 18 and above will be credited starting Feb 9, while monthly aid payments of up to RM200 will begin being credited in phases from Jan 9. Phase 1 of the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah cash aid will begin on Jan 20. “Last year, the programme benefited 96% of the population, totaling nearly RM2.1 billion. “While some wealthy recipients also received aid, many chose to share it with poorer neighbours.” The RM150 million in unspent funds will now be redirected to shelter residents, victims of domestic violence, students with disabilities and patients in need of medical devices. 0 Separation of powers, FOI and

economist Dr Geoffrey Williams said the FOI and ombudsman laws would only be meaningful if they provide genuine access to restricted information and oversight, reports TC Khor. He said FOI laws could play a dual role in improving governance – by uncovering corruption and malpractice and by helping the public understand how key policy decisions are made. He cited monetary policy decisions by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) as an example. “Interest rate decisions by the Monetary Policy Committee at BNM are currently not published, so we know the outcome but not the reasons for the decisions.” He also said the ombudsman Bill could strengthen oversight of the civil service but cautioned that its effectiveness would depend heavily on its design and leadership. 0 Digital transformation and e-government Anwar called for accelerated digital government initiatives to improve public service delivery. “Today, our national digital system must start seriously, not just talk about paradoxes between new technology and digital systems with increased funding but minimal results.” infrastructure The prime minister directed all ministries to implement small-scale projects immediately, including rural roads, staff quarters and repairs to dilapidated clinics. “Direct contractor appointments will be allowed for projects worth up to RM200,000, while quotations may be used for projects valued up to RM1 million.” To expedite the initiatives, the government issued the general expenditure warrant for 2026 ahead of schedule, allocating RM2.4 billion for small projects carried out by G1 to G4 contractors, mostly Bumiputera. “Implementation must begin immediately at the state and district levels, and all processes must be expedited.” 0 Civil service and budget increases Anwar emphasised that civil servants would benefit from reforms and increased funding. Additional allocations of RM18 billion this year will cover judges’ salaries and other critical functions. 0 SME support and tax incentives Service Tax on rentals for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) has been lowered from 8% to 6%. Newly-established MSMEs will enjoy a one-year tax deferment while the exemption threshold has been expanded to include businesses with annual sales of up to RM1.5 million. “We are now extending the exemption to those with total annual sales of up to RM1.5 million.” A one-year extension has also been granted for the e-invoicing transition period for companies with annual sales between RM1 million and RM5 million, initially set to begin on Jan 1. “This extension will give these businesses additional time to comply without penalties, amid concerns about high implementation costs.” The integrated system will also be expanded to the retail and construction materials sectors to encourage wider adoption. 0 Small-scale projects and

Anwar said RM100 Sumbangan Asas Rahmah aid for all Malaysians aged 18 and above will be credited starting Feb 9, while monthly aid payments of up to RM200 will begin being credited in phases from Jan 9. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

study,“ she added. Bernama reported that in March last year, while chairing a Cabinet meeting, the prime minister had called for a thorough study of the proposal. Azalina said all four Bills, which were announced by the prime minister earlier, will be tabled in February, following the debate on the motion of thanks for the royal address. She emphasised that the Bills will steer the nation towards strengthening genuine accountability and public trust. “On the Bills to establish an ombudsman and FOI, I believe we can proceed with these in the current Parliamentary session.” She explained that the FOI will grant public access to information and it operates in tandem This year, the programme will cover 22 million Malaysians, supporting preparations for Ramadan and Chinese New Year celebrations. Registration remains essential for new recipients in rural areas, as well as for 10,000 small traders and retail shops. Complementing the cash aid, the government will continue the Rahmah Madani and Agro Madani sales initiatives. “Over 23,000 Rahmah Madani sales events will be held across 600 state constituencies and 40 Federal Territory locations, while 5,000 Agro Madani sales events will offer products 10% to 30% cheaper than standard market prices. “These programmes ensure affordability of essential goods, support small traders and reach vulnerable communities.” 0 Education support and community schools Parents will receive early preschool assistance under the back-to-school project at RM150 per

with the Ombudsman Bill to help combat corruption, improve the quality of public service, protect citizens, and strengthen Malaysia’s principles of democracy and rule of law. “I consider the establishment of both the FOI and the ombudsman to be extremely important. The laws are sharply focused on public demand. “In many developed nations, FOI and an ombudsman are regarded as fundamental components of a country’s system of checks and balances.” Azalina also said the Legal Affairs division will expand its town hall sessions and conventions to gather feedback and views from various stakeholders and to enhance public understanding of the Bills. Meanwhile, in an interview with theSun student, now covering students up to Form Six. The total expenditure for the programmes is currently RM800 million annually. The government has also increased focus on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), including the integration of Maahad Tahfiz schools to provide employment opportunities. “Community religious schools remain in the poorest condition compared to other schools. “Hundreds of thousands of students, more than 300,000, are enrolled in these schools. Previously, all assistance was cut, which disadvantaged our children.” He directed the Islamic Development Department to engage directly with the schools to improve curricula, teaching quality and facilities. Funding for Chinese and Tamil national type schools has also increased. SJKC allocations rise to RM80 million from RM50 million, while SJKT schools will receive RM50 million.

Meeting with political party leaders to discuss Bills, says Azalina

TUESDAY | JAN 6, 2026

3 ‘Premiership cap step forward but deeper reforms needed’

Ombudsman crucial for freedom of information law Transparency International Malaysia (TI-M) has welcomed the government’s plan to introduce a Freedom of Information (FOI) law but warned it will only be effective if paired with an independent ombudsman empowered to enforce disclosure and investigate maladministration. TI-M president Raymon Ram said independent oversight is crucial to prevent public access to information from being left to the discretion of the very agencies expected to release it. “An independent ombudsman is essential to the success and credibility of the FOI law. “TI-M has consistently called for an autonomous federal ombudsman with real investigative authority to address maladministration and uphold the right to information. “This body must be a strong and impartial watchdog, capable of receiving complaints, reviewing agency decisions and compelling disclosure when information is unjustifiably withheld. “Without such oversight, the government risks being both gatekeeper and judge of its own transparency – a fundamental conflict of interest,” Raymon told theSun yesterday. His remarks followed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement during his New Year address at the Prime Minister’s Department monthly assembly yesterday. Anwar had said the government planned to table both an Ombudsman Bill and an FOI law later this year. The former would enable the setting up of an independent watchdog to investigate complaints against agencies and officials, while the latter would allow the public to request government documents such as tenders, contracts and public projects to prevent abuse of power, while safeguarding matters related to national security and intelligence. Raymon said TI-M strongly supports both an independent information commission to oversee the FOI regime and a separate federal ombudsman to investigate maladministration, including cases where information is withheld. “At minimum, if a public agency refuses requested information, citizens should have a clear right to report it to the ombudsman for investigation and redress. “Both oversight bodies must be independent, report directly to Parliament, and be shielded from political interference. “Without enforceable powers, the FOI law risks being hollow and ineffective.” Raymon, however, cautioned that limiting the FOI law to tenders, contracts and public projects would leave transparency gaps. “A robust FOI Act must guarantee the rakyat ’s right to know across all areas of public governance to prevent corruption and ensure meaningful accountability. “If the law applies only to selected sectors, significant abuses may remain hidden elsewhere. Exemptions for national security or official secrecy must be tightly defined, not blanket exclusions,” he said, citing TI-M’s endorsement of Article 19, the Principles on Freedom of Information Legislation. Raymon also urged Parliament to examine how the FOI law would interact with existing secrecy provisions, particularly the Official Secrets Act. Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com PETALING JAYA:

o Move could curb power concentration, encourage leadership renewal; constitutional and institutional reforms must follow, say analysts

term limits is unlikely to resonate strongly with the wider public, despite enthusiasm among political commentators, adding that public attention remains firmly focused on stagnant wages and the rising cost of living. He also argued that reform efforts should prioritise stronger oversight and accountability in areas of government where power is exercised with less scrutiny. “It is more important to have stronger oversight on the civil service and those running government agencies, statutory bodies and government-linked companies. These are unelected people who wield greater power than the politicians.” temporary relief rather than a cure. “It is not a panacea, but it can at least act as a painkiller, making abuses and corruption appear less unbearable.” Oh observed that the Bill could become symbolic if other executive powers – such as control over appointments and party machinery – remain unchanged. “Better than nothing, as other reforms look set to be casually thrown to the roadside or longkang .” Drawing a cautionary parallel, he added, “Venezuela was once a prosperous country too. Power abuses and corruption made it what it is today.” Legal expert Srimurugan Alagan highlighted the constitutional implications of the proposal. “Currently, the Malaysian Constitution contains no provision limiting the prime minister’s tenure. “Introducing such a clause would require a constitutional amendment with a two-thirds majority in Parliament. The Article should clearly state that a person can serve only two terms, regardless of whether they are reelected or contesting under a different party. The proposed amendment is positive, as it prevents abuse of power and allows other elected leaders the opportunity to serve as prime minister.” Anwar announced the proposed reform during his 2026 New Year Address at the Prime Minister’s Department monthly assembly. He said the legislation is part of the government’s effort to strengthen democratic governance and prevent the over-concentration of power in a single leader. “When a term is given, one can carry out their responsibilities within that period. After that, it is better for us to hand over leadership to the next generation,” he said. Meanwhile, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said clarified that the proposed Bill will only apply to prime ministers. “Menteris besar and chief ministers will not be affected, meaning the legislation caps the premiership at a maximum of 10 years in office,“ she explained.

minister himself.” He also pointed out that two-term limits are common in many democratic countries to prevent stagnation and potential abuse of power. “A chance must be given to new leadership. Even in Malaysia, 10 years is already very, very long for a prime minister,” he added. Pacific Research Center principal adviser Dr Oh Ei Sun offered a more guarded perspective, warning that term limits alone cannot fully address Malaysia’s institutional weaknesses. Only two prime ministers in the country’s history have served more than 10 years and Oh said these long tenures illustrate how power tends to accumulate and over time can lead to corruption and abuse. “It is bad enough that powers concentrate around a prime minister in this country. Over a long period, such powers tend to corrupt, often absolutely.” He described the reform as a

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

nation. When someone remains in power for an extended period – especially over two decades – power inevitably becomes concentrated in that individual.” Azmi added that the limit would encourage leadership renewal and the infusion of fresh ideas. “Innovation often comes from new leadership. When a leader has been in office for 10 or 15 years, ministers may hesitate to propose ideas that conflict with the prime minister’s views. “Limiting the term helps prevent excessive concentration of power and ensures fresh perspectives can emerge – from ministers and from the prime

PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced a 10-year limit for the premiership, a move analysts say could curb the over-concentration of power, but stress that deeper institutional reforms are needed to prevent corruption and stagnation. Nusantara Academy for Strategic Research senior fellow Dr Azmi Hassan said the proposal was promised by Anwar when he took office three years ago. “Ten years is a long time to lead a

Azalina said the legislation limiting the premiership to a maximum of 10 years in office will not affect menteris besar and chief ministers. – ADIB RAWI YAYHYA/THESUN

Economist urges focus on bread-and-butter issues

Ű BY T.C. KHOR newsdesk@thesundaily.com

stages of a prime minister’s term. Williams also pointed to Malaysia’s recent political history, noting that leadership turnover has occurred frequently even in the absence of formal term limits. “We can see that prime ministers come and go frequently through democratic means and political manoeuvres.” He added that a statutory cap would do little to prevent political instability unless it restricted the removal of a sitting prime minister during a fixed term. “A term limit would not end that unless the removal of the prime minister was prohibited during their fixed term. That would be undemocratic.” Williams said the debate over

members as a matter of political courtesy, such consultation is not a legal requirement. Williams added that any attempt to impose term limits on the prime minister would require strong parliamentary backing as it involves constitutional amendments and the need for a two-thirds majority in Parliament. “On one hand, they can prevent incumbents from holding on too long, but on the other they can cause speculation and jockeying for positions as the term nears an end.” He said such dynamics could undermine governance by shifting attention away from policy execution towards succession politics, particularly in the later

PETALING JAYA: An economist said the move to cap the prime minister’s tenure at two terms is largely institutional in nature and should be pursued without losing sight of more immediate bread and-butter economic concerns. Dr Geoffrey Williams said while the proposal is framed as part of broader institutional reforms, it is not without consequences and could distort political behaviour and encourage political manoeuvring well before a leader’s term ends. He said although the government is expected to consult coalition partners and Cabinet

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‘Maduro seizure normalises force on smaller states’

M’sia to speak for sovereign rights of all nations: PM PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia would continue to uphold and speak out for the sovereign rights of all nations, particularly those that were once colonised, in line with international law. He said Malaysia’s stance reflects its position as a developing nation that consistently respects the principles of international law and global order. Referring to his remarks on recent developments in Venezuela, Anwar said Malaysia, despite being a developing country, remains a free and sovereign nation guided by legal principles and international norms. “That is why we take a firm and consistent position, whether on Gaza or Venezuela. “From the very beginning, our leaders opposed apartheid in South Africa and fought for the independence of all formerly colonised nations,” he said in his 2026 New Year message at the Prime Minister’s Department monthly assembly on Sunday. Anwar described the detention of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife in a United States military operation in Caracas as unprecedented in scope and nature, expressing concern over the situation and calling the action a violation of international law. He added that the use of force against a sovereign nation to remove its head of government through external intervention was unjustifiable. According to US President Donald Trump, US forces captured Maduro and his wife on Saturday and flew them to New York, where they are expected to face federal charges. Trump also announced that the US would administer Venezuela until a “safe, proper and judicious transition” is secured. – Bernama Warisan names by election candidates KINABATANGAN: Parti Warisan (Warisan) has announced former Sukau assemblyman Datuk Saddi Abdul Rahman as its candidate for the Kinabatangan parliamentary by-election. The party also named Mazliwati Abd Malek, who contested the Kinabatangan parliamentary seat in the 15th general election, as its candidate for the Lamag state by-election. Warisan deputy president Datuk Darell Leiking, who announced both candidates at the Dewan Sri Lamag yesterday, said their selections had received the endorsement of the party’s Kinabatangan division. He added that the by-elections are a democratic process that must be carried out, and Warisan is offering candidates it deems suitable to bring change to the people of Kinabatangan and Lamag. The Kinabatangan parliamentary seat and the Lamag state seat were declared vacant following the death of their incumbent, Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, who was also former Sabah Barisan Nasional chairman, on Dec 5, 2025. The Election Commission has set polling for both seats on Jan 24, with nomination day and early voting scheduled for Jan 10 and Jan 20, respectively. – Bernama

o Putrajaya relies on global norms, law to protect national interests: Experts

international law and multilateralism. “Malaysia has consistently rejected leadership change through external intervention, and maintains that a country’s future must be determined by its people. “By describing the action as a violation of international law, the prime minister is reaffirming Malaysia’s position that restraints on the use of force between states must be preserved.” He emphasised that issues of such magnitude should be addressed through legitimate international mechanisms rather than unilateral action by dominant powers. theSun also contacted Malaysia’s former ambassador to the US Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz. He declined to comment, saying his view “will not change the situation”. The seizure took place on Jan 3, when US forces carried out a military operation in Caracas, taking Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores into custody over criminal charges of narco-terrorism, drug-trafficking conspiracies and related corruption, claims that Venezuela has strongly denied. The operation has sparked widespread international condemnation and reignited debate at the United Nations over the legality of unilateral enforcement actions against a sitting head of state. Anwar described the seizure as a violation of international law and a dangerous precedent, underscoring that Venezuela’s political future should be determined by its citizens.

She emphasised that adherence to international law is vital for countries such as Malaysia, which cannot rely on military power for security. “The normalisation of coercive force to protect national interests creates vulnerability for smaller states, whose security and sovereignty depend on predictable legal frameworks rather than military or economic coercion.” Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia foreign policy expert Dr Aizat Khair said the risks for countries such as Malaysia are both practical and strategic, particularly if breaches of sovereignty became standard practice. “If operations of this nature are accepted as routine, smaller states become more exposed to extraterritorial actions justified on security, criminal or political grounds.” He said Malaysia relies heavily on the stability of international norms, from the law of the sea to international trade rules and multilateral institutions, to protect its national interests. “When these norms are weakened, the bargaining power of major states becomes more dominant,” he said, adding that such incidents could trigger retaliatory measures and wider regional instability, including economic sanctions, energy disruptions and supply-chain shocks. Aizat said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s remarks were consistent with Malaysia’s foreign-policy principles, which are grounded in sovereignty,

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: The seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by United States forces has been criticised by Malaysian experts as a blatant breach of international law that threatens the rules-based order on which smaller and middle powers depend. Universiti Teknologi Mara international relations specialist Dr Farhatul Mustamirrah Mahamad Aziz said the operation amounted to a direct violation of state sovereignty and territorial integrity, core principles underpinning international law. “Sovereignty signifies the equal standing of every nation state, and no one nation has the right to intervene in the internal affairs of another,” she told theSun yesterday. She added that such actions reflect a selective application of international law in which compliance is influenced more by geopolitical clout than legal obligation. “From Malaysia’s perspective, these actions undermine trust in global governance mechanisms that smaller and middle powers rely on to safeguard their interests.” ‘Six learning areas for preschool curriculum’ KUALA LUMPUR: Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the new preschool curriculum introduced at the start of the current school session will focus on six key learning areas to support holistic early childhood development. She said the six areas are socio-emotional development; physical development and personal wellbeing; language and literacy; spirituality, values and citizenship; creativity and aesthetics; and cognitive development. Fadhlina added that the socio-emotional domain emphasises nurturing the ability of children to recognise and manage their emotions as well as build positive relationships with others and their surroundings. “For physical development and personal wellbeing, the focus is on health awareness, including healthy nutrition, hygiene and safety. Reproductive and social health education is also incorporated.” She also said the language and literacy component aims to strengthen communication skills, with children learning basic literacy and language skills while cultivating an interest in reading. Fadhlina said the spirituality, values and citizenship domain is divided into three components: Islamic education, moral education and citizenship education. “In Islamic education, Muslim children will be taught basic religious knowledge, values and practices in daily life, including the fundamentals of Jawi writing.” She added that moral education focuses on instilling core values such as compassion, honesty, respect and diligence through fun and engaging approaches. She also said citizenship education seeks to foster awareness of rights and responsibilities,

Fadhlina expressed hope that the new curriculum would help produce well-rounded, balanced and globally competitive learners from an early age. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

cultivate patriotism and encourage children to contribute to the well-being of their families and communities. She said in the creativity and aesthetics domain, children are given opportunities to explore and appreciate their environment, while developing imagination and creativity through visual arts, music, movement and drama.

“The cognitive domain encourages curiosity and exploration, with children guided to think systematically, interact, share information and solve problems.” Fadhlina expressed hope that the new curriculum would help produce well-rounded, balanced and globally competitive learners from an early age. – Bernama

TUESDAY | JAN 6, 2026

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‘Bribery claims must not derail tobacco control measures’

KUALA LUMPUR: Terengganu exco and Kijal assemblyman Datuk Razali Idris was fined RM2,000 by the Sessions Court here yesterday after being found guilty of making seditious remarks during the launch of Bersatu’s machinery for the Kemaman by-election three years ago. He paid the fine in court, avoiding a three-month jail term. Razali, 59, and a former Bersatu information chief were charged on Nov 24, 2023 with uttering seditious words by alleging that a court decision was controlled by the government. The offence allegedly occurred at Padang Astaka Chukai, Kemaman in Terengganu between 9.30pm and 11.30pm on Nov 10, 2023. The charged was brought under Section 4(1)(b) of the Sedition Act 1948, punishable under Section 4(1), which carries a maximum fine of RM5,000, up to three years’ jail, or both. DPP Izzat Amir Idham urged the court to impose a custodial sentence, calling the offence serious. “The accused is a person of high standing and influence. A fine alone could be seen as easily bearable and would lack a deterrent effect.” Lawyer Awang Armadajaya Awang Mahmud, representing Razali, pleaded for no jail term, citing his client’s contributions to national politics. “The statement did not impact public order or national security. A prison term exceeding 12 months or a fine above RM2,000 would disqualify him as an assemblyman under Article 48 of the Federal Constitution, triggering a by-election.” Four prosecution witnesses and four defence witnesses, including Razali, testified during the trial. – Bernama Politician fined for seditious remarks Probe on alleged misconduct at military bases KUALA LUMPUR: The Defence Ministry has directed the Armed Forces to conduct an internal investigation into allegations that unauthorised individuals had entered military camps and that immoral activities had taken place within the premises, as claimed in widely spread social media posts. It said it viewed the allegations seriously, stressing that such claims do not reflect the culture, values or actual practices of the Armed Forces, which are founded on discipline, professionalism and strict adherence to security procedures. “If the allegations are found to be true, firm action will be taken without compromise against any party involved. “The public is advised not to engage in speculation or make premature conclusions that could mislead society and damage the reputation of the ministry and the Armed Forces.” It added that the ministry and the Armed Forces remain committed to upholding discipline, integrity and professionalism among defence personnel, and will not tolerate any conduct that could undermine the image and credibility of the nation’s defence institutions. – Bernama

He said the Act reflects decades of evidence-based policy development and Malaysia’s commitments under the World Health Organisation Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC). The council said all stakeholders must remain committed to ensuring the Act’s success, despite what it described as “continued pressure” from industry players and “certain interest groups seeking to dilute its impact”. Murallitharan stressed that effective tobacco control depends on consistent and equitable enforcement nationwide, warning that weak or selective implementation risks undermining public confidence and rendering the law ineffective. “Implementation must be uniform. Tobacco and nicotine products do not harm people selectively, and enforcement cannot be selective either.” He cautioned that tobacco control efforts in Malaysia still have “unfinished business”,

areas, particularly in designated non-smoking zones. “These gaps must be addressed decisively to protect the public from exposure to tobacco smoke, reduce smoking prevalence in line with endgame targets and prevent the normalisation of smoking among children in public spaces.” He noted that compliance remains weak in public walkways, city centres and high-density urban areas, including Kuala Lumpur, where exposure to secondhand smoke persists. To shield public policy from industry interference, the council proposed a formal code of conduct governing government interactions with the tobacco and nicotine industry, in line with Article 5.3 of the WHO FCTC, continuous benchmarking against international standards and a review of minimum sales prices for all nicotine products. “Tax policy alone is insufficient if products remain affordable. Price and access must be addressed together,” said Murallitharan.

o Act 852 is result of public health evidence, global best practices, efforts to safeguard citizens from nicotine addiction: NGO

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

pressure or intimidation to distract it from the core mission of protecting public health through strong and enforceable laws. “The country must remain focused on safeguarding public health, particularly through the effective implementation of tobacco control legislation.” He highlighted that the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) is Malaysia’s first standalone, comprehensive tobacco control law, encompassing tobacco, vaping and all nicotine products under a single legal framework. “Act 852 did not emerge overnight. It is the result of public health evidence, global best practices and Malaysia’s obligation to safeguard its people, especially children, from nicotine addiction.”

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Council for Tobacco Control has sounded the alarm over recent allegations of bribery linked to efforts to weaken the country’s tobacco control policies, warning that such claims must not be used to “derail or discredit the implementation of effective public health laws”. It said any allegations should be investigated through proper legal channels, stressing that they must not be exploited to obstruct the enforcement of Malaysia’s tobacco control measures. Its president Prof Dr Murallitharan Munisamy said the nation must not allow allegations, KUALA LUMPUR: A spike in concerning social incidents involving school students last year has heightened parental fears over child safety, pushing the government to launch a regulatory “sandbox” trial programme effective Jan 1. The trial, a collaboration between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission and major platforms, is designed to assess existing technical capabilities and refine regulatory controls in a contained setting before a nationwide rollout. Unlike Australia, which has implemented an outright ban for under-16s, Malaysia’s strategy is not one of prohibition. Instead, the focus is on strengthening and clarifying age verification systems to ensure robust enforcement. Child clinical psychologist Dr Noor Aishah Rosli endorsed the measured approach and called it an important long-term safeguard to protect young people from being overwhelmed by harmful digital content. The rise in social media addiction among children and adolescents is alarming. Recent studies show that nine in 10 children have social media accounts and average a staggering eight hours a day on platforms such as TikTok and YouTube. Adding to the concern, 2020 Unicef report Our Lives Online revealed that 91% of Malaysian teenagers aged between 13 and 17 are daily internet users, and 70% have encountered harmful content online. Noor Aishah clarified that solving this crisis extends beyond government regulation, stressing that laws would have a limited impact without proactive parental support at home to monitor, guide and foster digital literacy.

pointing to previous regulations that allowed exemptions and grey Trial programme to refine social media regulations

Noor Aishah said laws would have limited impact without proactive parental support at home to monitor, guide and foster digital literacy. – AI IMAGE BY SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN/THESUN

stepping into defined roles, such as a team captain, and learning to navigate frustration under a coach’s guidance, young people develop emotional resilience and a clear personal identity. “This builds authentic self-worth and purpose. It is the opposite of the passive, algorithm-driven experience on social media.” He said ultimately, this shift away from digital dependency could sharpen a teenager’s focus and motivation, boosting performance not only on the field but also in the classroom and beyond. – Bernama

powerful antidote to social media’s passive hold. The Kolej Poly-Tech Mara sports science lecturer believes that channelling teenagers’ time into sports could actively build discipline, goal-setting skills and healthier mental wellbeing. “Cutting back on social media also directly translates to better sports performance. When you reclaim those hours, you create real opportunities for meaningful, physical engagement.“ He highlighted that sports forge a stronger sense of self, and by

“The greatest danger is passing a law but seeing no real change in behaviour. Children learn by watching and imitating, not just by being told what to do. If parents are constantly glued to their phones, kids see that as normal and copy it. “Parents must lead by example through their own discipline. Show them how to balance screen time and they will follow. Effective control starts at home, naturally.” National futsal team fitness coach Syafique Faudzil expanded on the call for proactive solutions, championing organised sport as a

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Elephantherd marks conservation win

o Wildlife encounter reflects years of work to cultivate peaceful coexistence

recognition allows timely ENT assessment before problems worsen. Those who snore frequently, wake unrefreshed or experience blocked breathing at night may benefit from addressing nasal congestion, sinus issues or structural airway narrowing. ENT evaluation and, where needed, sleep studies could determine severity and guide treatment, including non-invasive options, such as weight management or continuous positive airway pressure therapy. She advised caution when turning to supplements to address sleep issues, noting they should only be used when supported by credible evidence. – Bernama national recognition two months ago with the Star Golden Hearts Award, highlighting its contribution to wildlife conservation and community protection. The initiative is supported by a broad coalition, including the Intrepid Foundation, the Borneo Conservation Trust, volunteers, students and lodge guests. Yee acknowledged the role of early institutional support, noting that Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment former minister Christina Liew was instrumental in helping to secure foundational funding during the project’s formative stages. Looking ahead, Respect expressed hope that the Kinabatangan model could serve as a blueprint for sustainable human-wildlife coexistence across Sabah and beyond. “This is proof that conservation works when communities, organisations and policymakers pull in the same direction. “The challenge now is to ensure this success could be sustained and expanded for future generations.”

herds are returning to these designated feeding plots almost every other month, which is a notable increase that signals the success of efforts to provide a stable, alternative food source in a region long plagued by human-elephant conflict. “This is the real joy, seeing these magnificent animals, especially with their young, finding enough to eat naturally,” said Yee. “It validates years of planning, daily care and commitment from our entire team on the ground.” The initiative aims to tackle one of the greatest threats facing Borneo elephants: conflict with humans. As forests shrink and traditional migration routes are disrupted, elephants are often forced into farmlands, leading to crop damage and, in some cases, fatal retaliation. By guiding elephants towards dedicated feeding areas, the programme helps reduce crop raids on nearby farms, safeguarding local livelihoods and the animals themselves, added Yee. The project’s impact has not gone unnoticed. Respect received

Ű BY JOSHUA CHANG newsdesk@thesundaily.com

KOTA KINABALU: As the mist lifted over the Kinabatangan River yesterday morning, a rare and quietly powerful scene unfolded: a herd of critically endangered Borneo elephants, including four calves, emerging to feed calmly along the riverbank in what conservationists describe as a hard-won victory for coexistence. The herd, estimated at between 10 and 11 elephants, spent more than two hours near the Tanini Kinabatangan Lodge, grazing on Napier and barau-barau grasses planted specifically for them under a long-term conservation initiative

Yee said by guiding elephants towards dedicated feeding areas, the programme helps reduce crop raids on nearby farms, safeguarding local livelihoods and the animals themselves. – JOSHUA CHANG/THESUN

the younger elephants staying close to their mothers, before the herd slowly made its way downstream. What appeared to be a tranquil wildlife encounter reflected years of painstaking conservation work. According to Respect, elephant

by the RESPonsible Elephant Conservation Trust (Respect). Respect chairman Alexander Yee, who witnessed the moment firsthand, said the sight was nothing short of “surreal”. Adults and calves fed unhurriedly,

‘Resetting sleep schedule may be most powerful resolution for 2026’ KUALA LUMPUR: As Malaysians usher in the new year with resolutions to lose weight, eat better or exercise more, many overlook a fundamental factor that often determines whether those goals succeed: sleep. and Morbidity Survey 2023 showing that two in five Malaysian adults do not get enough sleep. hormone, leading to irritability, fatigue and reduced patience. These effects often sap motivation to exercise and push individuals towards convenience foods for quick energy, reinforcing a cycle in which stress disrupts sleep and poor sleep fuels stress. inadequate restorative sleep,”she said, adding that lethargy, irritability and dozing off at inappropriate times point to long-standing disruption that should not be ignored. oxygen, placing strain on the heart and increasing long-term health risks. Juani stressed that early

A separate 2024 survey found that 87.2% struggle with sleep-related issues, such as insomnia, frequent waking or difficulty falling asleep. “These patterns show why resetting one’s sleep schedule may be the most powerful resolution for 2026. Quality sleep supports physical, mental and emotional wellbeing, forming the foundation for healthier habits throughout the year.” She explained that when sleep is consistently disrupted, the body’s internal systems shift in ways that make healthy choices harder to sustain, particularly appetite control. Sleep deprivation also raises cortisol, the body’s main stress

She said many sleep problems originate in the airway, even when symptoms seem mild, adding that snoring is often the earliest sign but is commonly dismissed as normal. “Snoring becomes a concern when accompanied by nasal blockage, frequent nasal discharge, difficulty swallowing or signs of apnoea.” Structural issues, such as a deviated septum or enlarged tonsils, may be unnoticed during the day but could obstruct airflow at night, leading to obstructive sleep apnoea. Repeated breathing pauses force the brain to briefly wake the body to restore

Sunway Medical Centre Velocity ear, nose, throat (ENT) and head and neck consultant surgeon Dr Juani Hayyan Abdul Karaf said chronic sleep deprivation is quietly undermining health nationwide. She noted that long working hours, stress and lifestyle demands have left many adults in persistent sleep debt. Disrupted sleep affects mood, metabolism and immunity, while increasing the risk of hypertension and heart disease. National data reflects the scale of the problem, with the National Health

Irregular sleep schedules worsen the problem by disrupting the circadian rhythm, which governs alertness, cognitive performance and metabolism, often resulting in poor concentration, slower reaction times and reduced productivity. Juani also said early warning signs are frequently misinterpreted, often blamed on stress rather than poor-quality sleep. “How someone feels on waking is a key indicator. Feeling heavy-headed, foggy or unrefreshed suggests

Education retains its importance in the Malaysian landscape for parents, students and stakeholders. The changes are fast paced with new developments in new fields of study such as cybersecurity, data protection, augmented and virtual reality, machine learning in education, digital education and artificial Intelligence. Leading the way are universities, who are invited to showcase their latest programmes, curriculum and content in our Education Focus for 2026.

Contact us now for special deals on digital, video and print advertising. 03-7784 6688 advertise@thesundaily.com

thesun.my

TUESDAY | JAN 6, 2026

7

Philippines arrests ex-general o Govt frames charge of sedition

Taiwan reports 6% rise in cyberattacks on infrastructure TAIPEI: Cyberattacks on Taiwan’s key infrastructure from hospitals to banks rose 6% last year from the previous year to an average of 2.63 million attacks a day, the island’s National Security Bureau said, adding some were synchronised with military drills in “hybrid threats” to paralyse the island. Taiwan has in recent years complained about what it sees as China’s “hybrid warfare” – from daily military drills near the island to disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks – as Beijing ramps up military and political pressure to force Taipei to accept its claims of sovereignty. The average number of daily attacks last year jumped 113% from 2023 when the bureau first began publishing such data, with sectors such as energy, emergency rescue and hospitals seeing the sharpest year-on-year increases, according to a report by the National Security Bureau on Sunday. “Such a trend indicates a deliberate attempt by China to compromise Taiwan’s crucial infrastructure comprehensively and to disrupt or paralyse Taiwanese government and social functions,” the report said. The bureau said China’s “cyber army” timed operations to coincide with military and political coercion. For example, China launched 40 “joint combat readiness patrols” by sending military planes and ships close to Taiwan and cyberattacks escalated on 23 of those occasions. China also ramped up hacking activities during politically sensitive moments such as when President Lai Ching-te marked his first year in office with a speech in May and when Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim spoke at a meeting with lawmakers at the European Parliament in November. “China’s moves align with its strategic need to employ hybrid threats against Taiwan during both peacetime and wartime,” the report said. The Taiwanese report said the Chinese attacks included distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks designed to disrupt Taiwan’s daily life as well as man-in-the-middle attacks to steal information and penetrate the island’s telecommunications networks. Science parks that anchor Taiwan’s semiconductor industry have also been prime targets with attackers stealing advanced technologies. The move was “an attempt to support China’s self-reliance in technology and economic development and prevent China from being put in a

MANILA: A former Philippine air force general accused of encouraging the military to abandon President Ferdinand Marcos Jr was arrested on a charge of sedition yesterday at Manila’s international airport. Romeo Poquiz, who had publicly called for the armed

(with) his recent statements. He was arrested upon arrival from Bangkok this morning,” Remulla said in a text message. Speaking at a news conference, acting police chief Jose Nartatez said Poquiz had been detained on the basis of a Dec 5 warrant. The 67-year-old ex-general confirmed his arrest in a post on Facebook. “I was arrested by the (Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group) at the Airport Terminal ... Long live the Filipino!” Poquiz said, adding he was being taken to Manila’s Camp Crame police headquarters. The ex-general’s lawyer, Ferdinand Topacio, said he had not yet been allowed to meet his client. He said calls for the military to withdraw its support for Marcos had not been “direct incitements to sedition but rather ... a discussion of a possible outcomes of graft and corruption”. “This just shows that the government is denouncing those who speak about wrongdoing instead of those who are stealing the people’s money,” Topacio said. Philippine military chief General Romeo Brawner said in October that the nation’s “battle staff” had rebuffed retired officers led by Porquiz who aired their grievances with Marcos, saying they were told the military was “solid” in its support of the constitution. Brawner also said that retired officers had reached out to younger officers seeking a “coup d’etat, a military junta” to “reset” Philippine society without disclosing their names. The alleged push for military intervention came as Manila was gearing up for Sept 21 anti corruption protests sparked by bogus flood-control projects believed to have cost taxpayers billions of dollars. Marcos, who made the widespread fraud the centrepiece of a July national address, has since seen friend and foe alike implicated in the scandal, with some political opponents suggesting he was a key beneficiary of the corruption. Speaking at the signing of a new national budget yesterday, Marcos made no mention of the arrest. – AFP The prosecutors said Google topped up its investment by US$59 million in Gojek’s then-parent company PT Aplikasi Karya Anak Bangsa (AKAB) at about the same time. Nadiem’s wealth has risen by 809 billion rupiah (RM197 million) from AKAB, based on his 2022 self-written wealth report to the state, and most of AKAB’s funds came from Google’s investment totalling US$787 million, they said. The ministry’s decision for this tender enriched at least 10 other companies, according to the charge sheet. – Reuters

Thailand, Interior Department secretary Jonvic Remulla. “He was arrested for the charge of sedition in connection said

forces their support” from Marcos amid a burgeoning corruption scandal, was detained by Philippine police after returning from a holiday in to “withdraw

disadvantaged position in the US-China technology competition”, the report said. – Reuters Indonesian prosecutors file graft charges against ex-minister Nadiem NO TO IMPERIALISM ... Activists marching towards the US Embassy in Manila yesterday. – REUTERSPIC

JAKARTA: Indonesian prosecutors yesterday filed corruption charges against former education minister and the co-founder of startup Gojek, Nadiem Makarim, over alleged improper laptop procurement during the pandemic that led to US$125.64 million (RM512 million) in state losses. Nadiem, who resigned as chief executive of ride-hailing company Gojek in 2019 to become education minister until 2024, was accused of enriching himself by around US$48.34 million) from the procurement of Chromebook laptops and Chrome OS for schools between 2020 and 2022,

determined in 2018 that their use for learning requires an internet connection, making them incompatible for Indonesia, where internet availability is a major issue in remote areas, prosecutors told the court. The ministry still went ahead with the purchase of Chromebooks after Makarim met representatives of Google Asia Pacific and Google Indonesia several times in 2020, prosecutors said. Nadiem’s lawyer denied that his client had met Google’s representatives.

Alphabet’s Google was not indicted and did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comment. Gojek merged with e-commerce Tokopedia in 2021. The combined company, PT GoTo Gojek Tokopedia, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Investigators with the Attorney General’s Office arrested Nadiem in September for his role in the case, along with several top officials at the ministry. The Chromebook laptops were bought even though the ministry had

prosecutors said in the first trial hearing. Nadiem had created tender specifications that only fit the Chrome system to “make Google the sole controller of education ecosystem in Indonesia”, prosecutors said. The charges against Nadiem carry a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. Nadiem has denied wrongdoing, his lawyer Ari Yusuf Amir told reporters, adding that the prosecutors’ case lacks strong evidence. Ari said he will ask the court to dismiss the charges.