07/01/2026

‘Under-16 social media ban places child protection above convenience’

WEDNESDAY JAN 7, 2026

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SCAN ME No. 9026 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

Couples often stop turning to each other long before separation becomes inevitable, and this avoidance erodes trust, creates emotional distance that becomes very difficult to bridge: Expert Marriages don’t end overnight Report on h page 4

Report on h page 2 ‘10-year cap on premiership reflects political realities’ Proposal at odds with parliamentary principles under which PM’s tenure is determined by the confidence of a majority of MPs: Law professor Lack of exact crash site info remains biggest obstacle in renewed MH370 search Estimated possible locations stretch across vast sections of southern Indian Ocean, making current mission arduous, time-consuming and costly.

Preventing marital breakdown requires timely and structured support, not just crisis intervention. – AI-GENERATED IMAGE BY SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN/THESUN

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WEDNESDAY | JAN 7, 2026

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‘PM tenure cap reflects modern politics’ o Proposal acknowledges shift in public perception towards prime ministers: Expert who served 13 years, and Mahathir, who served 22.

Hospital and expand to other hospitals under assessment, including Serdang, Sungai Buloh and Putrajaya,” he said, adding that regulatory compliance and operational agreements delayed rollout from the original end-2025 target. “We have completed what is required and are awaiting clearance from the Attorney-General’s Chambers. “The rollout is expected in the first quarter of this year, potentially as early as this month or February.” He added that workforce reform is also a priority, with a centralised HR dashboard to manage staff placement, promotions and attrition using real-time data. The ministry aims to fill 4,500 permanent doctor positions and 935 nursing posts in line with Budget 2026 announcements. He also said the reform agenda rests on four pillars: digitalisation, including the expansion of Electronic Medical Records and a National Lifetime Health Record; healthcare financing reforms, including value-based payments and closer public-private integration; human capital and welfare; and public health and ethics, including enforcement of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 and restructuring of the National Transplant Resource Centre. “If previous years were about diagnosis, 2026 is the year of execution,” he said, emphasising that the ministry aims to deliver tangible improvements in mental health services and the broader healthcare system. In Britain, only two prime ministers in the past 200 years exceeded the 10-year mark – Margaret Thatcher, who served 11 years, and Tony Blair, who served just over a decade. “Historical experience across the world suggests that one term may be insufficient to carry out a concerted programme of transformation, two terms are possibly sufficient, while a third term usually results in the prime minister missing his way or becoming excessively authoritarian and out of touch.” 0 Arguments for extended leadership Nevertheless, Harding acknowledged that certain leaders required extended tenures to deliver major national transformations. “It could be fairly argued that Mahathir could not have transformed Malaysia without a more extended period in office, similarly Lee Kuan Yew in Singapore, (Franklin D.) Roosevelt in the US during global economic collapse and world war and Margaret Thatcher in Britain. “So there is a profound political choice to be made about the country’s confidence in, and expectations of, its leaders and its democracy.” 0 Constitutional change needs bipartisan support Any move to impose term limits would require a constitutional amendment supported by a two-thirds majority in both Houses of Parliament. Harding said even if the government could command such numbers on its own, it would be wiser to frame the change as a bipartisan institutional reform rather than a Madani-specific policy, as the Opposition would also be subject to the same rule. He added that major constitutional amendments have traditionally been preceded by extensive public debate. “There is no great hurry and the government has only referred to 2026 as the timeline. “The opportunity should be taken not just to debate this interesting issue but to educate the public as well as canvass its views.”

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

Indonesia imposed a two-term consecutive limit in 2001 after President Suharto won eight elections, while the Philippines adopted a single, non-renewable six-year term. 0 Risk of loopholes through early dissolution He added that while a 10-year cap would ordinarily restrict a prime minister to two general elections, early dissolution could allow a leader to contest three polls, undermining the intent of the reform. He suggested safeguards be built in, including a prohibition on a prime minister advising dissolution for a third time. 0 Is 10 years the right benchmark? On whether 10 years is an appropriate threshold, Harding observed that only two Malaysian prime ministers have served longer than a decade – Tunku Abdul Rahman, upon arrival, and admitted at about 9.30am. “He had a fall early this morning and normally that requires observation in hospital. He fell from one part of the balcony to the living room, as I was made to understand.” Mahathir was previously treated at the institute on July 13 last year due to fatigue, but was discharged on the same day. Earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, conveyed their prayers for the health and speedy recovery of Mahathir. “I, together with Azizah, pray for Tun Mahathir’s wellbeing and swift recovery, Insya-Allah. ” – By Qirana Nabilla Mohd Rashidi

in the Dewan Rakyat. Harding said that confidence could endure for decades or collapse within weeks. He pointed to the contrast between Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s 22 years in office, Britain’s first prime minister Sir Robert Walpole’s 21-year tenure and Liz Truss’s seven-week premiership in the United Kingdom. “The twin dangers of long-term domination and governmental instability highlight the flaw in this system.” 0 Presidential systems and global precedents Harding said by contrast, presidential systems elect leaders for fixed terms, with removal possible only through impeachment. The United States introduced a two-term limit in 1947 after President Franklin D. Roosevelt won four consecutive elections between 1932 and 1944. PETALING JAYA: Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad suffered a fracture to his right hip following a fall at his residence yesterday. In a statement, his office said medical assessment confirmed the injury and Mahathir is expected to be admitted for the next few weeks for treatment and observation. The statement said the incident occurred at about 7.30am, after which he was taken to the National Heart Institute. The matter was confirmed by his press secretary Sufi Yusoff via a message shared on the official “Dr M Media Updates” WhatsApp group. Sufi said the 100-year-old statesman was taken to the institute by ambulance, conscious

PETALING JAYA: As Malaysia considers a landmark reform aimed at curbing executive dominance, University of Reading Malaysia and National University of Singapore law professor Andrew Harding said the proposed 10-year limit on a prime minister’s tenure reflects modern political realities rather than classical constitutional theory. The constitutional expert added that the proposal acknowledges a fundamental shift in public perception in which prime ministers are increasingly viewed in much the same way as presidents. 0 Modern politics over classical theory “What is called ‘elective dictatorship’ is encouraged by the absence of any formal limits on tenure and the emergence of populist politics. “In one sense, a 10-year limit imports the idea of term limits from the presidential system,” Harding told theSun . He said in practical terms, such a cap would mean a prime minister could not reasonably expect to lead a party into more than two general elections, given that a parliamentary term is limited to five years. 0 At odds with parliamentary principles However, Harding emphasised that the proposal runs counter to orthodox parliamentary theory. In a parliamentary system, a prime minister’s tenure is determined not by a direct popular mandate but by the confidence of a majority of members of parliament. “The prime minister is not elected by the people, as a president is. He does not appear on the ballot except in his own constituency.” By convention, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong appoints as prime minister the MP who is likely to command the confidence of the majority PUTRAJAYA: Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad yesterday said Malaysia is facing a growing mental health crisis, with calls to the national Talian HEAL hotline nearly doubling in 2025 as young adults increasingly seek help. He revealed the hotline received 163,709 calls between Oct 21, 2022 and Dec 31, 2025. Of these, 125,417 callers, or 77%, received emotional support, while 38,292 callers, or 23%, were provided specialised intervention by counselling psychology officers. The hotline also handled 451 crisis cases involving suicidal behaviour, including 294 cases of suicidal ideation that received direct intervention and 157 suicide attempts requiring 999 activation, with police and emergency departments involved. All 157 were successfully referred to hospitals for treatment. “Talian HEAL currently receives an average of about 80 calls per day. Call volumes have risen steadily: 27,738 in 2023, 42,990 in 2024 and 90,981 in 2025, more than double the previous year.” He cautioned against reading the surge as a direct sign of worsening mental health. “The situation is multifactorial. There may be increasing pressures, but there is also greater awareness, reduced stigma and more people willing to seek help. “Mental health professionals describe this as ‘help-seeking behaviour’.” Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Mahathir hospitalised after fall

Malaysia facing growing mental health crisis, says Dzulkefly

Dzulkefly said call volumes to the Talian HEAL hotline have risen steadily: 27,738 in 2023, 42,990 in 2024 and 90,981 in 2025, more than double the previous year. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH THESUN

reform priorities, marking a shift from planning to implementation. Central to the agenda is the Rakan KKM financing model, aimed at modernising healthcare delivery and retaining medical specialists in public hospitals. “Yes, Rakan KKM will start at the Cyberjaya

Demographic data showed most callers are young adults aged 18 to 35, a trend he described as “worrying and highlighting the need for more targeted support and intervention for this segment”. Dzulkefly also outlined the ministry’s 2026

WEDNESDAY | JAN 7, 2026

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Elusive search for MH370 continues

Umno, BN staying put in Unity govt: Zahid

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Nearly 12 years after Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 vanished, renewed searches in the southern Indian Ocean highlight just how complex locating the aircraft remains, even with major advances in technology. Universiti Kuala Lumpur Business School aviation expert Assoc Prof Major Dr Mohd Harridon Mohamed Suffian said the biggest obstacle has always been the lack of a confirmed crash site. “The primary predicament is identifying the exact location of the wreckage,” he said, adding that investigators can only estimate possible locations rather than pinpoint a single site. Those estimated areas stretch across vast sections of the southern Indian Ocean, making any search operation inherently arduous, time-consuming and costly.” While new underwater robots and autonomous vehicles have enhanced deep-sea search capabilities, Mohd Harridon said technology alone cannot guarantee success. “The data collected must be interpreted to provide a meaningful representation of the ocean floor. “The interpretation must be astute and holistic to avoid mistaking natural seabed features for man made objects,” he said, stressing that both sensor quality and analytical models must continue to improve to create an accurate picture of the underwater environment. “With no confirmed crash coordinates, search teams rely heavily on mathematical modelling to focus their efforts.” Mohd Harridon said various models can be used depending on the type and quality of available data, including optimisation approaches such as genetic algorithms. However, he cautioned that modelling results remain approximations. “The integration of mathematical models is not an absolute solution – the results are still estimates of the situation.” The most credible search strategies, he added, combine multiple sources, including satellite data, drift analysis, wind patterns, engineering calculations and qualitative human information. “All data from diverse sources should be combined to form a panoramic outlook of the tragedy.” Satellite data and drift models have been pivotal in narrowing Universiti Malaysia Terengganu Institute of Oceanography and Environment director Prof Dr Mohd Fadzil Mohd Akhir said the operation, led by Ocean Infinity, could mark the third major effort to uncover the fate of the unfortunate plane. “Ocean Infinity is one of the world’s leading companies specialising in underwater search and ocean exploration. They are deploying their latest technology, which accelerates deep-sea searches that previously took much longer. “Searching underwater objects on the seabed, especially in very deep areas, is extremely difficult. The

Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

He added that environmental factors further complicate the search. “If you go south in the search area, conditions can be rough, with high swells making the ship and equipment’s work more difficult.” Above all, Mohd Fadzil stressed that pinpointing the correct search area is critical. “There are many aspects to consider, but the most important is whether you are looking in the right place. “That is what this operation is trying to determine. Most experts believe there may be new information pointing to a location we did not know before – whether it proves correct or not.” – By Harith Kamal PETALING JAYA: Umno and Barisan Nasional (BN) will remain in the Unity government until the end of the current parliamentary term, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said yesterday. Zahid, who is also Umno president and BN chairman, said the commitment made from the outset when Umno and BN agreed to join the Unity government in Dec 2022, remains unchanged. He stressed that the party would not be involved in any backdoor manoeuvres to topple the government. “My position and that of the party has been clear from the beginning. The party will not engage in tebuk atap (undermine or orchestrate a collapse) manoeuvres against the current government. We will stand together with the Unity government until the end of its term – and it will be a full term before the 16th general election is held,” he told reporters after attending the Rural and Regional Development Ministry’s New Year address. Zahid said the matter was discussed during Umno’s political bureau meeting on Monday, following a proposal by Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh last Saturday calling on the party to withdraw from the government and assume the role of the Opposition. He said no final decision had been made on the proposal. “The decision, if taken, will be a major one. Insya Allah when the time comes, we will announce it,” he said, adding that even if Umno and BN were to withdraw their support, the Unity government would not collapse as it currently commands the backing of 153 MPs. Zahid said the meeting also discussed the possibility of reestablishing cooperation between Umno–BN and opposition parties, particularly between Umno and PAS. He said Umno did not wish to repeat past mistakes by forging cooperation with opposition parties at this time. “Any decision would be examined thoroughly and cautiously.This is to ensure the party is not ‘bitten by the same snake for the second time in the same place’.“

across different pieces of evidence. For the victims’ families, renewed searches inevitably rekindle hope. However, he warned that extreme ocean depths, harsh conditions and the physical strain on autonomous vehicles impose limits on what any search can achieve. “Each renewed attempt represents another step towards answers in one of aviation’s most enduring mysteries.” On Dec 30 last year, Texas-based Ocean Infinity resumed seabed searches for 55 days, targeting areas deemed most likely to yield the aircraft. The operation, under a service agreement with the Malaysian government, is on a “no find, no fee” basis, meaning Malaysia bears no cost if no wreckage is found. If debris is recovered, the company would receive US$70 million (RM283.7 million), the same terms proposed in 2018 when Ocean Infinity first conducted the search.

o Finding the aircraft wreckage remains one of aviation’s hardest challenges, as vast oceans, missing crash coordinates and imperfect data limit even the most advanced technology: Expert

mysterious incident. “Deformation patterns on parts such as wings or the radome (radar dome) could reveal the impact angle, speed, force of impact and whether the descent was controlled or uncontrolled. “The distribution and scatter radius of debris on the ocean floor could also offer clues about the nature of the crash.” He stressed that discovering multiple interconnected components allows investigators to verify findings

search zones, he said. “Investigators must continually eliminate implausible search areas to avoid wasting time and resources. “Structured evaluation tools such as the Pugh Matrix which compares multiple options against set criteria, could help prioritise zones with the highest probability of success.” Mohd Harridon said even fragments of the aircraft could provide critical insights. “Components and physical parts could relay valuable narratives of the

A young visitor looks on at the MH370 wall of memories at Publika, Kuala Lumpur, as renewed searches for the wreckage in the southern Indian Ocean revive questions and hopes. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Cutting-edge deep-sea tech carries high expectations in hunt for plane PETALING JAYA: The renewed search for MH370 is not merely another attempt to locate the missing aircraft, but it is also a high-stakes test of the latest underwater technology. Mohd Fadzil stressed that searching the deep ocean remains highly challenging. sit between seamounts or rugged terrain, which makes interpreting the data challenging.”

On the role of ocean modelling, he noted its importance has waned. “Ocean models were very useful in the early years, around 2014 to 2015 but teams now rely more on satellite data, which can capture acoustic and environmental signals revealing previously unseen clues.” He also highlighted the value of biological analysis from recovered debris. “When the plane’s flaperon (a specialised type of aircraft flight control surface that combine aspects of both flaps and ailerons which responds to roll commands) was found after nearly two years, marine organisms were stuck on it. “Studying these can indicate whether the species come from a certain area, providing additional clues.” Despite technological advances,

ocean is vast, incredibly deep and conditions are complex. Updating technology allows them to tackle these challenges more effectively.” He added that the operation also doubles as a showcase of Ocean Infinity’s capabilities. “This may serve as a marketing strategy to demonstrate that Ocean Infinity is a leading company in this technology and fully capable of such complex operations.” Mohd Fadzil said the renewed search could be driven by fresh leads, particularly from satellite data. “There are a few important pieces of information that can be extracted from satellites that may not have been available before. “With this data, teams can analyse datasets and target specific locations that might yield fresh insights.”

“One difficulty is scanning very deep areas with rugged terrain. Current equipment must move slowly when towed for scanning. But with Ocean Infinity’s new technology, the process can likely be sped up. Essentially, this operation tests and refines their latest tools.” Mohd Fadzil said interpreting seabed data presents another hurdle. “It’s not like seeing an actual image. What they get from the seabed is a signal, which is processed to show the spike or shape of the seabed. From that, they try to determine whether features are natural or man-made. “Aircraft are large, so they’re unlikely to be missed, but they could

WEDNESDAY | JAN 7, 2026

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Emotional distance linchpin for failed marriage: Academic

‘Rising divorces, low reconciliation exposing flaws in family law system’ PETALING JAYA: Fathers’ Rights Association of Malaysia (FRAM) president Malcolm Fernandez said soaring divorce rates and plunging reconciliation figures are exposing deep flaws in the family law system, leaving children caught in high-conflict separations. Fernandez, who is also managing partner of fathers-only law firm Malcolm Fernandez Advocates & Solicitors, said marital breakdown is rarely caused by a single factor. “Poor communication, stress, interference from in-laws and the involvement of third parties often combine to push couples apart.” He said with divorce now carrying far less social stigma, couples are increasingly unwilling to remain in marriages they see as irreparable. “Rising divorces alongside declining reconciliation figures point not to a lack of willingness among couples to try but to a system that fails to offer timely and effective support.” Asked whether divorce proceedings escalate conflicts, he said courts apply existing laws. He added that the deeper challenge is that Malaysia’s family legislation dates back to 1976, an era when family structures and parenting roles were very different. “Our laws were drafted in an era in which one parent was usually the primary caregiver, parenting roles were clearly divided and post-divorce co-parenting was not actively recognised.” He said many parents, including fathers, remain actively involved in their children’s lives after separation but the law has not kept pace. He also said terms such as “custody” frame parenting as a win-lose contest, pushing parents into adversarial positions early on, adding that by contrast, jurisdictions such as Australia and the United Kingdom start from a shared parenting framework, with safety and child welfare as key considerations. “That single shift changes the tone from confrontation to cooperation.” Fernandez said lawyers are often consulted only after relationships have deteriorated, when disputes over finances or children dominate. He added that at that stage, reconciliation may no longer be realistic, but conflict need not escalate. He said early interventions such as counselling and mediation could either support reconciliation or facilitate a dignified separation that protects children from parental conflict. “The issue is not legal representation itself. It is how late the system currently engages families in non-adversarial solutions.” He endorsed calls by the Malaysian Bar for non-adversarial divorce models but added that legislative reform is also essential. He urged a review of family laws to reflect modern parenting, move away from adversarial terms such as “custody” and implement early dispute resolution mechanisms with safeguards against abuse or violence. He also called for formalised parenting plans, stronger enforcement and updated laws on parental relocation and child abduction, both domestically and internationally. “These are reforms that require legislative courage, not minor adjustments.” Fernandez cautioned that without such reforms, rising divorces and declining reconciliation risk normalising high-conflict separations, leaving children exposed to prolonged parental disputes, disrupted parent-child bonds and long-term emotional strain, while increasing pressure on courts, schools and social services. “This is not about favouring mothers or fathers. It is about reducing conflict, improving stability and protecting children from outdated systems.” – By Kirtinee Ramesh

o ‘Communication becomes superficial and avoidance replaces engagement’

hostility, and makes emotional closure and cooperative co-parenting more difficult. “For children, prolonged parental conflict is one of the strongest predictors of long-term emotional distress.” She advocated therapeutic and child-centred approaches to separation, such as mediation, counselling-supported divorce and structured parenting programmes. These help families separate their roles as spouses while preserving their roles as parents, safeguarding children’s emotional security. She said preventing marital breakdown requires timely and structured support, not just crisis intervention. “This includes relationship education, parenting programmes during major life transitions and accessible counselling before conflict becomes entrenched. “Equally important are legal and psychological literacy, so couples understand their rights, responsibilities and the long-term impact of conflict on children.” Ultimately, divorce rarely happens overnight. “It is usually the result of accumulated stress, silence and missed opportunities for support. Seeking help early should be seen as an act of care rather than weakness. “Even when separation becomes unavoidable, how families navigate the process matters deeply. “With the right support, it is possible to reduce harm, preserve dignity and protect children’s well-being. Relationships may change form, but the responsibility to act with care and compassion remains.”

counselling, and many are not aware that divorce is not the only option,” she said, adding that in non-violent cases, relationships could often be repaired if support is sought early. Muslihah said divorce should not automatically be seen as a failure. “The law allows for divorce, including divorce by mutual consent. What matters most is that responsibility towards children does not end with the marriage.” She added that parents must continue to work together through healthy co-parenting arrangements even after separation, while society should move away from a blame-based view and recognise amicable divorce as a lawful process centred on dignity, fairness and the wellbeing of children. She also said chronic stress, including financial strain, mental health challenges and post-pandemic burnout, has also weakened marital stability in recent years. “When stress becomes prolonged, couples have less emotional energy for patience, empathy and problem-solving. “The relationship enters a ‘survival mode,’ in which partners react instead of working as a team.” She said common stress responses such as withdrawal, irritability or emotional exhaustion are often misinterpreted as a lack of love. “Uneven responsibilities could lead to burnout, gradually eroding the partnership marriage is meant to provide.” Muslihah also warned about the psychological impact of adversarial divorce processes, particularly on children. “For adults, a win-lose mindset increases

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Universiti Putra Malaysia Human Development & Family Studies Department head Dr Muslihah Hasbullah said many marriages end not because of constant arguments but due to a quiet drift into emotional distance. She said couples often stop “turning towards each other” long before separation becomes inevitable. She added that communication becomes superficial, resentment builds and avoidance gradually replaces meaningful engagement. “In everyday behaviour, couples may avoid difficult conversations, become defensive or emotionally shut down to keep the peace. “Over time, this avoidance erodes trust and creates emotional distance that becomes very difficult to repair.” She said many couples also delay seeking professional help because counselling is still largely perceived as a last resort rather than preventive support. “Intervention often comes too late, when one or both partners have already decided the marriage is beyond saving. “There is still stigma attached to seeking Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said the LiKES approval process has been shortened to 14 working days from 90 previously, with an advance payment of RM2,000 introduced for each eligible company. He said the programme is being implemented through Talent Corporation Malaysia Berhad (TalentCorp) on a pay-and claim basis, with an allocation of RM30 million over three years which started in 2024. “The RM2,000 payment will be disbursed from March 1 and companies can expect to receive it within 14 working days, subject to the conditions set by TalentCorp. “Small and medium enterprises and startups should make the most of this. It’s a very good opportunity for interns to train themselves, enhance their skills and better prepare (for the workforce),” he told a press conference after visiting the TalentCorp headquarters yesterday. Also present were Deputy Minister Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, TalentCorp board chairman Wong Shu Qi and TalentCorp group CEO Edward Ling. Meanwhile, Ramanan said the implementation of the Gig Workers Act, which was gazetted on Dec 31, is expected to be finalised soon. He said although the ministry has prepared the draft of the Act, its implementation is still under discussion, including an additional allocation of RM100 million announced yesterday by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim through

25,000 trainees to benefit from internship grant PETALING JAYA: A total of 25,000 trainees are set to benefit from the Internship Placement Matching Grant for Small and Medium Enterprises (LiKES), a government initiative aimed at empowering industrial training and enhancing youth employability.

Ramanan (second from left) observes a workstation during an official guided tour of the TalentCorp headquarters. – BERNAMAPIC

“There were six schools announced previously, five of which are under the Yayasan Didik Negara list. To start the renovation work, you have to wait for the bill of quantities before the open tender process can start,”he said in his capacity as the minister responsible for Indian community affairs. – Bernama

the Skills Development Fund Corporation. On the RM50 million allocation for upgrading Tamil national-type schools, also announced by Anwar yesterday, Ramanan said open tenders would be rolled out in phases for each school once the initial process is completed.

WEDNESDAY | JAN 7, 2026

5 ‘Social media ban prioritises safety over convenience’

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

PETALING JAYA: A proposed blanket ban on social media access for children aged below 16 is not about convenience or flexibility but about equity, clarity and enforceability, said former Education deputy minister Datuk Seri P. Kamalanathan as debate intensifies over how far the state should go to protect young users online. He said age-based restrictions are a necessary policy response to mounting evidence that children often lack the maturity and cognitive readiness to navigate social media safely, exposing them to growing psychological and systemic risks. “I think it is progressive and needed at the moment, looking at how the risks of not having the maturity to deal with social media are becoming more prevalent,” he told theSun , likening social media use to driving, in which legal age limits exist to protect the individual and the wider public. Kamalanathan said a temporary restriction on social media access until the age of 16 is not about conflating different uses of digital platforms but about placing child protection above convenience. He described the move as delayed access rather than outright denial, allowing young people time to develop emotional maturity and judgement before engaging independently in digital spaces. “Most social media platforms are not designed primarily as educational KUALA LUMPUR: Authorities have been urged to reveal details of items and cash seized during a raid on a safe house allegedly linked to army chief General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan. Badrul Hisham Shaharin, better known as Chegubard, a political activist with Pembela Tanah Air, said the request seeks to provide clarity on ongoing probes and keep the public informed. “What is the status of the safe house that was raided? We have images from the operation. What is the outcome of that raid? We have records but we want Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief Azam Baki to publicly announce the seized items. A house was raided and 26 companies are under investigation,” he said at a press conference yesterday. He noted that the lack of information has raised questions, pointing out that in previous high-profile cases, details of seized assets were made public even while investigations were ongoing. “In cases involving former prime minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri (Yaakob) and others, in which ownership of funds was unclear, authorities went public immediately. Cash, gold bars, seized items, you displayed them all.” Earlier media reports said Muhammad Hafizuddeain is on leave to allow authorities to conduct probes. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin confirmed that the leave took effect immediately and would remain in force until investigations are completed. The MACC has reportedly also identified several other individuals allegedly linked to corruption involving a senior army officer. These leads emerged from ongoing investigations into multiple army procurement tenders pursued over the past weeks. Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

signalling a more interventionist approach by the state in regulating online spaces. However, mental health advocates have cautioned that restricting access altogether could have unintended consequences, particularly for vulnerable youths. Sneham Malaysia founder Datuk Dr Florance Sinniah said the organisation has seen a high volume of teenagers turning to digital platforms to seek support for mental health challenges. “Based on Sneham’s experience, online spaces are often a vital channel for young people to express emotions, seek help and connect with peers or trusted adults.” She warned that restricting access could delay meaningful intervention and increase feelings of isolation, especially if alternative support systems are not readily visible or accessible. She also noted that reliance on phones and digital platforms accelerated sharply during the Covid-19 pandemic, when students were required to continue their education remotely.

She said the generation adapted quickly to digital learning, making online engagement an entrenched part of their daily lives. “Any digital tool, including social media, requires guidance. This is where parents play a critical role, not just in supervising use, but also in building connection and trust with children who are already dealing with many issues.” Florence said a total ban on social media for under-16s is unlikely to be protective in the long term. “Digital life is pervasive and inevitable. Prolonged prohibitions may delay the development of critical thinking, self-regulation and healthy help-seeking, and could push youths towards unmoderated spaces with greater risks when access eventually becomes unrestricted.” She advocated instead for guided digital engagement, supported by parental involvement, clear boundaries and open communication. “It is time parents share the accountability in supervising their children,” she said, adding that guided access could help build emotional resilience and healthier online habits. Police report transfer of senior officers KUALA LUMPUR: Police yesterday announced the transfer and appointment of several senior officers to strategic posts at Bukit Aman and state contingent levels. Its secretary DCP Abdul Rahman Kassim said Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department director Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri has been appointed Bukit Aman Crime Prevention and Community Safety Department director. He said its outgoing director Datuk Wan Hasan Wan Ahmad would take over as head of the IGP (Research and Development) Secretariat at the IGP Secretariat Office, Bernama reported. “Bukit Aman IGP Secretariat Anti-Money Laundering Criminal Investigation Team head Datuk Seri Muhammed Hasbullah Ali has been appointed the new director of the Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department.” He said Sibu district police chief ACP Zulkipli Suhaili has been appointed to lead the Sarawak Contingent Management Department with the rank of acting senior assistant commissioner (SAC). “Sarawak Contingent Integrity and Standards Compliance Department head ACP Roselina Daud has been appointed state Crime Prevention and Community Safety Department head, with the acting SAC rank. “Muar Police Technical Academy Mechanical Engineering Studies Centre head ACP Pozlan Ibrahim has been appointed principal assistant director (Religion and Counselling) at the Bukit Aman Integrity and Standards Compliance Department, with the acting rank of SAC.” The transfers will take effect from Feb 9.

o Move allows youth time to develop maturity and judgement before engaging independently in digital spaces: Ex-deputy minister

“Relying heavily on parental capacity creates significant gaps in protection and outcomes,” he said, citing disparities in digital awareness, time constraints and enforcement across households. He added that a blanket ban establishes equity and clarity, ensuring all students receive the same baseline protection regardless of family circumstances or socioeconomic background. The Online Safety Act 2025 came into force on Jan 1, introducing a statutory framework aimed at strengthening online safety and protecting children and families. The Act places greater responsibility on platform providers to manage harmful content, cyberbullying, online exploitation and other digital risks through improved safety mechanisms, while

tools. Their core architecture is driven by engagement, algorithmic amplification and commercial interests,” he noted. He said even when platforms are used for learning or communication, students remain exposed to systemic risks, such as distraction, data exploitation, inappropriate content and harmful social comparison. “A clear ban creates a simple, enforceable boundary during formative years, reducing exposure to these risks.” He also argued that digital literacy and online skills could be cultivated within controlled environments, without granting unrestricted access to open social media ecosystems. Kamalanathan said while parental supervision and guided use are ideal in theory, they are unevenly applied in practice.

Call to reveal details of raid in army official corruption case

Chegubard noted that the lack of information has raised questions, pointing out that in previous high-profile cases, details of seized assets were made public even while investigations were ongoing. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

WEDNESDAY | JAN 7, 2026

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Cases of carpal tunnel syndrome rising

KUALA LUMPUR: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), a condition caused by compression of the median nerve in the wrist, is becoming increasingly common among working Malaysians. However, many continue to ignore early symptoms, delaying medical consultation until the condition becomes more severe and harder to treat. The syndrome can cause numbness, tingling, pain and weakness in the hand, potentially affecting daily activities and quality of life. Sunway Medical Centre Hand and Microsurgery consultant Mooi Sung Siang said CTS is becoming more prevalent due to modern work practices that require prolonged wrist positioning, either in flexion or extension. “Prolonged wrist postures, common among office workers and computer users, increase pressure within the carpal tunnel and can compress the median nerve, leading to CTS. “However, the condition is not limited to office workers. Musicians, operators of vibrating tools and individuals with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes or pregnancy are also at risk.” He said clinically, CTS is classified into three severity levels, namely mild, moderate and severe, based on electrodiagnostic criteria. Symptoms corresponding to mild CTS typically involve occasional numbness. Moderate cases may feature frequent symptoms and pain while severe CTS can lead to constant symptoms and muscle atrophy in the hand. Mooi addressed common misconceptions, noting that many Malaysians believe that CTS can be resolved without treatment and warning that untreated CTS may result in

persistent impaired fine motor function, sleep disturbances and, in severe cases, permanent nerve damage, potentially affecting employment and overall quality of life. He said the diagnosis of CTS is typically made through a clinical assessment by a healthcare professional. This may include physical examination findings and, where appropriate, further investigations, such as nerve conduction studies, may be conducted by medical experts. He added that imaging modalities, such as MRI or ultrasonography, may sometimes be used to assess structural causes contributing to nerve compression, including conditions such as ganglion cysts and gout. Mooi highlighted that non-surgical management involves wrist splints, activity modification, medications and physiotherapy to relieve pressure, while surgical release is considered if symptoms persist or muscle atrophy develops. Surgical approaches to treat CTS include open and minimally invasive techniques. While the choice of approach depends on clinical and patient-specific factors, minimally invasive methods use smaller incisions, which may offer a different recovery experience for some individuals. Mooi advised the public not to dismiss ongoing hand symptoms and to seek medical evaluation when needed as early assessment could support clearer diagnosis and appropriate care. “Seek medical advice promptly to prevent permanent nerve damage. Simple measures, such as adjusting wrist positions and taking regular breaks, could help reduce pressure while awaiting professional care.“ – Bernama pain,

Devotees depart on sacred Hindu pilgrimage Chandran said Batik Air aimed to make the beginning of the pilgrimage a meaningful and memorable experience for the devotees, setting the tone for the journey ahead. – PIC COURTESY OF BATIK AIR

o Travel logistics and send-off at KLIA organised by Batik Air

we want their journey to begin in a manner that reflects dignity, care and respect. “Beyond transporting passengers, it is about understanding the significance of their purpose and ensuring their experience is handled with sensitivity and attention,” he added. He said Batik Air aimed to make the beginning of the pilgrimage a meaningful and memorable experience for the devotees, setting the tone for the journey ahead. As part of the send-off, the airline also presented a small gift of ghee to the devotees, courtesy of Enrico, in support of essential religious requirements associated with the pilgrimage. Batik Air said it would continue working with relevant authorities and partners to support community and religious travel, while maintaining service standards and operational efficiency.

Hindu community. Observed by more than 50,000 devotees annually, the Ayyappan Swamy pilgrimage holds deep spiritual meaning and involves strict religious practices and preparations. For many devotees, the journey represents a culmination of weeks of prayer, discipline and devotion. In response to the growing number of Malaysian devotees travelling to India for the pilgrimage, Batik Air facilitated special arrangements this year to support the journey. These included coordinating travel logistics and organising a dedicated send-off at KLIA to ensure a smooth and respectful departure. In a statement, Batik Air CEO Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy said the airline recognised the spiritual importance of the pilgrimage and the responsibility involved in supporting such journeys. “The pilgrimage carries deep spiritual meaning for the devotees, and

Ű BY THE SUN TEAM newdesk@thesundaily.com

KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 140 Ayyappan Swamy devotees from Malaysia departed for Tiruchirappalli, India on Saturday to begin their annual sacred pilgrimage, a key religious observance that draws tens of thousands of worshippers each year. The departure from KL International Airport (KLIA) Terminal One was marked by a send-off ceremony attended by Sentosa assemblyman Gunarajah R. George, underscoring the pilgrimage’s significance within the local

WEDNESDAY | JAN 7, 2026

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Thai soldier hurt in ‘accident’ BANGKOK: Thailand accused Cambodia of violating a 10-day-old truce yesterday, saying cross-border mortar fire wounded a soldier, while Phnom Penh said a “pile of garbage” exploded, injuring two of its own troops. stressing if a similar incident occurred, Thailand may need to retaliate. Cambodia’s Defence Ministry spokeswoman Maly Socheata said two Cambodian soldiers were injured, one severely, yesterday in Cambodia’s Preah Vihear province, which sits opposite Thailand’s Ubon Ratchathani. been told the incident was an accident, but we are seeking clarification on how responsibility will be taken,” Anutin said. Charnvirakul said Thailand had the “capability to respond” to Cambodia, which is outgunned by its neighbour. o Truce under strain

TAIPEI: A China-born Japanese lawmaker sanctioned by Beijing arrived in Taipei yesterday, vowing to tell the world that “Taiwan is an independent country”. Hei Seki, a member of Japan’s parliament, was sanctioned in September by China and banned from entering the country for “spreading fallacies” on issues such as Taiwan, Hong Kong and disputed islands. China claims Taiwan is part of its territory and disputes Tokyo’s stand on islands in the East China Sea claimed by both countries, and considers foreign criticism on sensitive political topics to be acts of interference. “The fact that I am able today to smoothly enter Taiwan ... fully demonstrates that the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of China are completely two different countries,” Seki told reporters, using Taiwan’s official name. “I came to Taiwan today, first of all, to prove this point, and to tell the world that Taiwan is an independent country,” he said. China’s Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters at a press briefing the “rantings of petty villains aren’t worth responding to”. Seki will attend a banquet, along with Taiwanese Premier Cho Jung-tai, the Indo-Pacific Strategy Thinktank in Taipei, which is hosting Seki’s visit, said. China’s Foreign Ministry said previously that Seki, a naturalised Japanese citizen, had “spread false information, colluded with Japanese anti China forces and wantonly attacked and smeared China”. The ministry also cited visits by Seki, who is also known by his Chinese name Shi Ping, to the Yasukuni Shrine, which honours Japan’s war dead including several World War II war criminals. China has said it would freeze Seki’s assets in the country, forbid Chinese entities from conducting transactions with him, and deny entry visas to him or his family. – AFP INDONESIA HAS ENOUGH RICE JAKARTA: President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia had officially achieved rice self sufficiency as of Dec 31. He said the target was initially set to be achieved within four years, however, it was realised in one year. “Thanks to hard work and collaboration among all stakeholders, the target was realised much sooner. We did not import any rice last year.” He said the government was committed to self-sufficiency by strengthening the agricultural sector, improving farmers’ welfare and leveraging technology and innovation to ensure JAKARTA: At least 14 people were killed after being swept away by flash floods in North Sulawesi. Heavy rain early on Monday triggered flash floods on the island of Siau, said rescue agency spokesperson Nuriadin Gumeleng. Main roads in the affected areas were covered by rocks, debris and thick mud. At least 444 people have been evacuated to schools and churches, said disaster mitigation agency spokesperson Abdul Muhari. The floods also destroyed hundreds of houses and government buildings, North Sulawesi governor Yulius Selvanus said. – Reuters ALL EYES ON MAYON MANILA: The Philippines yesterday raised its alert level for the Mayon volcano in the central province of Albay, warning of “potential explosive activity” and advising people to stay outside a 6km danger zone. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology raised the alert to level three on a five-level scale, which means magma is pushing up inside the volcano and forming a lava dome at the summit. Mayon is the most active of 22 volcanoes in the Philippines, having erupted more than 50 times the last four centuries. Its last eruption was in June 2023. – Reuters Taiwan is independent, says Japanese MP sustainable food security. – Bernama SULAWESI FLOODS KILL 14

The nations’ long-standing conflict stems from a dispute over the colonial-era demarcation of their 800km border, where both sides claim territory and temple ruins. Under the December truce, Cambodia and Thailand pledged to cease fire, freeze troop movements and cooperate on demining efforts along their border. On Dec 31, Bangkok released 18 Cambodian soldiers held since July. While the two nations agreed late last month to stop fighting, they still need to resolve the demarcation of their disputed border. Cambodia’s Defence Ministry said in a statement yesterday that Phnom Penh had proposed a bilateral border committee meeting with Thai counterparts to be held in Cambodia’s Siem Reap province this month. Bangkok has said previously that meetings to discuss border surveying and demarcation may need to be held by Thailand’s next government, following elections scheduled for Feb 8. – AFP

While Cambodian forces were performing “organisation and orderliness” duties, “an explosion occurred from a pile of garbage”, she said, resulting in the two injured soldiers being hospitalised. Socheata did not mention the strike alleged by Thailand, but said both nations’ border coordination teams had consulted on the incident involving the Cambodian soldiers and addressed the matter. The explosion occurred in a frontier region known as the Emerald Triangle, Socheata said where the borders of both countries and Laos meet. In May, a Cambodian soldier was killed in a firefight with Thai troops in the area, reigniting the border conflict. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said his government had lodged a protest with Phnom Penh, stating “the truce was violated”. “At the military-to-military level, we have

A decades-old border dispute erupted into military clashes last year, with fighting in December killing dozens of people and displacing around one million on both sides. The two countries agreed to a fragile truce on Dec 27, ending three weeks of clashes. “Cambodia has violated the ceasefire” yesterday morning, the Thai army said in a statement, accusing Cambodian forces of firing mortar rounds into Thailand’s Ubon Ratchathani province. One soldier was wounded by shrapnel, it said. The Thai army said in a later statement that the Cambodian side had contacted a Thai military unit and claimed “there was no intention to fire into Thai territory”, adding “the incident was caused by an operational error by Cambodian personnel”. The Thai military said it warned Cambodian forces to exercise caution,

BR I E F S

Lee takes the shot of a lifetime with Xi. – YONHAP/AFPPIC

Lee snaps Xi selfie with ‘backdoor’ phone BEIJING: South Korean President Lee Jae Myung snapped a selfie with Xi Jinping using a smartphone gifted to him by the Chinese leader, who had joked at their last meeting that the device might be capable of spying. Lee posted a selfie of himself, Xi and their wives on X on Monday during a visit to Beijing. “A selfie with President Xi Jinping and his wife, taken with the Xiaomi I received as a gift in Gyeongju,” Lee wrote. “Thanks to them, I got the shot of a lifetime,” he said. “I will communicate more frequently and collaborate more closely going forward.” the sidelines of an Apec summit in South Korea. When Lee asked if the communication line on the device was secure, the Chinese leader urged him to “check if there is a backdoor”, referring to pre-installed software that could allow third-party monitoring. The banter was a rare display of humour from the Chinese leader, who is not often seen making jokes, let alone about espionage. Lee has said Xi was “unexpectedly quite good at making jokes”.

New York to face narco-trafficking charges: a raid condemned by Beijing and Pyongyang. Lee’s selfie post sparked heavy interest online and was shared more than 3,400 times in the first few hours. One user said: “Sir, Do you know Nicolas Maduro used the same phone?” The South Korean leader, who took office in June following the impeachment and removal of his predecessor over a martial law declaration, has sought to improve ties with China after a years-long diplomatic deep freeze. Yesterday, he met Chinese Premier Li Qiang, charged with economic policy, hailing improving ties as the “irreversible trend of the times”. The South Korean leader then headed to Shanghai. – AFP

During their 90-minute summit on Monday, Xi urged Lee to join Beijing in making the“right strategic choices” in a world that is “becoming more complex and turbulent”. Lee’s visit to China followed a US military operation in Caracas that captured Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro and brought him to

Lee’s office also posted a short YouTube video of the scene, with Xi complimenting the South Korean leader’s photo skills. The Xiaomi handset made headlines in November when Xi cracked a joke to Lee on