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No. 9037 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

PATRIOTIC PALS ... Labuan residents Lainie Erisus (left) and Noryne Rozdian all decked out during the launch of a ‘Fly the Flag’ campaign held at Kompleks Sukan Laut Antarabangsa yesterday in conjunction with Federal Territory Day on Feb 1. – BERNAMAPIC

Umno and Barisan Nasional support for Madani govt decisive and sincere in helping to manage country, with no hidden agenda: Zahid i h l i t t ith hidd d Z hid g You can count on us page 3

INSIDE

Architectural community urged to inspire young generation with skills and values of profession. A

MCMC to meet X platform representatives to discuss Grok and other online safety issues.

Octogenarian ‘matriarch’ of mengkuang mat weaving keeping traditional craftsmanship alive.

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Meeting between MCMC and X scheduled for Jan 21

‘Education not just about grades but building character’ KUALA LUMPUR: Good education is not merely about producing academic excellence but also nurturing individuals who are ethical, civil and socially responsible, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said this principle formed the basis for founding Yayasan Anda Akademik (YAA) by him and a group of graduates and youth activists in 1971, aimed at giving school dropouts a second chance through education. “The philosophy behind YAA is the belief that education should not be exclusive or dismissive but empowering and humane,” he said at the launch of the book Bangkit Semula: Memoir Warga Yayasan Anda Akademik on Friday. The text of his speech was read out by Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari. Anwar said YAA was established shortly after he graduated from Universiti Malaya, driven by deep concern over student dropouts, particularly among youths from low-income families in both urban and rural areas. He said YAA emerged from moral awareness and the spirit of the times, built not on privilege or power but on idealism, volunteerism, hard work and faith in human potential, making it not only an educational institution but also a “school of life”. “YAA was conceived as a modest initiative with a big soul to offer second chances to the less fortunate so that they could continue their studies, rebuild confidence and rediscover the meaning of knowledge in their lives.” He said since its founding, YAA had provided a structured and disciplined learning environment, enabling students to resume secondary and pre-university education while building self-belief, intellectual foundations and a clearer life direction. He added that YAA’s educational philosophy, later articulated as Insan Akademis yang Bertakwa , remains relevant in building a Malaysia Madani rooted in justice, compassion, humanity and balance between material progress and spiritual development. Anwar said the book is more than a publication or nostalgic record documenting the struggles, sacrifices and resilience of those who believed in education as a path to liberation and renewal. “The book presents the voices of educators, administrators and alumni, real human stories of falling and rising, failure and perseverance, doubt and renewed conviction, exclusion and second chances.” – Bernama

Talks to include concerns about potential misuse of Grok, particularly in generating pornographic and explicit content that violates national laws

social media to individuals aged 16 and above, Bernama reported. He said the discussions were currently focused on technical issues and the mechanism to implement the ban, which is still under review. “We expect its implementation to take place in the coming months but the exact date will be determined before I make any announcement.” He added that several other platforms, which were initially not included in the targeted group, have stated their readiness to be involved voluntarily. “I feel that it’s not the right time to name these platforms but I view this as a good effort by (the operators).”

temporary ban on access to Grok for users in Malaysia, which took effect the same day. MCMC said the action was taken following repeated misuse of Grok to generate pornographic and explicit content as well as the presence of obscene material and non-consensual manipulated images involving women and children despite regulatory notices issued to X Corp and xAI LLC. On Jan 14, MCMC was quoted as saying it was considering taking legal action against X Corp and xAI LLC following their failure to ensure the safety of Grok users in Malaysia. Fahmi said all social media platforms had also begun discussions with MCMC on proposals to limit the use of

Kinabatangan parliamentary and Lamag state by-elections has seen candidates attend between one and five events a day. The three candidates for the parliamentary seat and two for the state seat opted for face-to face, door-to-door campaigns and small group ceramah rather than large-scale events to woo voters. The campaigning since Jan 10 was calmer and less lively than those experienced during the Sabah polls held on Nov 29, particularly in terms of flag and poster displays, except in a few areas where small-scale “flag wars” were observed. Among the main challenges faced by all five candidates were the wide geographical spread of the parliamentary and state constituencies, limited road access and reliance on water transport at several locations. Campaign fervour is expected to pick up pace as it enters the second phase, with all candidates trying to reach as many voters as possible before the campaign period ends at 11.59pm on Jan 23. Mohd Kurniawan Naim Moktar, the Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate for Kinabatangan, said his priority is to visit all 27 polling district centres to better understand the pulse of the people, adding that he had visited 19 centres. “Every concern and request from residents will be carefully assessed before being made the basis for action. Only by seeing the actual situation can development planning be drawn up accurately and comprehensively.” BN’s Lamag candidate Mohd Ismail Ayob, better known as CYBERJAYA: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and social media platform X will hold a meeting on Jan 21 to discuss online safety issues, said Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. He said discussions would include concerns about the potential misuse of the Grok artificial intelligence app, particularly in generating pornographic and explicit content that violates

national laws. “For Grok, we have identified several ways that it can still be misused. However, we hope X can make several improvements to restrict the misuse to create explicit content which violates the country’s laws. “So far, we have seen that X has given good cooperation and is open to holding discussions,” Fahmi said after speaking to Information Department staff on Friday. On Jan 11, MCMC ordered a

Campaign pitch heating up for Kinabatangan, Lamag by-elections KINABATANGAN: The first phase of campaigning for the

Barisan Nasional’s Lamag candidate Mohd Ismail visiting the National Information Dissemination Centre in Kinabatangan yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

spouses as early voters, while Lamag has 13,899. The official vote-tallying centre for both by-elections will be Dewan Sri Lamag. A total of 36 ordinary polling centres with 117 voting streams and one early voting centre at the Kinabatangan district police headquarters, with one stream, will be used. The Election Commission said all polling centres will open from 8am to 5pm, except for 20 polling centres in three state constituencies (Lamag, Kuamut and Sukau), which will close between noon and 4pm. – Bernama

The Kinabatangan by-election sees a three-way battle involving Mohd Kurniawan Naim, Saddi and Goldam while the Lamag seat will feature a straight fight between Mohd Ismail and Mazliwati. Both by-elections were called following the death of incumbent Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, 66, on Dec 5 last year. Polling is on Jan 24, and early voting is set for Jan 20 for both seats. Kinabatangan has 48,722 registered voters, comprising 48,526 ordinary voters and 196 police personnel and their

Miha, said he had reached 80% of the constituency in the first week of campaigning. Parti Warisan (Warisan) candidate for the Kinabatangan seat Datuk Saddi Abdul Rahman said his campaign had achieved about 50% coverage in the first week. The Warisan candidate for Lamag Mazliwati Abdul Malek said her campaign had covered the entire constituency. Goldam Hamid, the independent candidate for Kinabatangan, said his campaign had covered about 70% of the areas in the Sukau and Lamag state constituencies.

NATIONAL 3 theSun on Sunday JAN 18, 2026

You can count on Umno and Barisan, Zahid tells Anwar

unwavering support enjoyed by Umno president and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Despite voices calling for Umno and Barisan Nasional (BN) to withdraw from the Madani government, Ahmad Zahid succeeded, with his trademark composure, in further uniting BN during his presidential address. He even persuaded MIC and MCA to remain loyal partners within the coalition that has stood for more than five decades. Immediately after his speech, MCA president Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong said MCA would remain firm in BN. Calls for Umno to revive cooperation with PAS were noticeably absent during the assembly. Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr ‘Party yet to decide on election cooperation with PH’ KUALA LUMPUR: Umno has yet to decide whether it will cooperate with Pakatan Harapan (PH) in the upcoming elections although it will continue its cooperation within the Madani government. According to Umno Secretary General Datuk Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, this approach is to ensure political stability in the country and to make sure that the people benefit from stability. “If we look at economic indicators, investments and investor confidence, all show positive signs. What is the foundation of all this? The foundation is political stability. “Umno, as a party with long experience in governance, will certainly consider our responsibility to the people,” he said after visiting media outlets at the 2025 Umno General Assembly at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur yesterday. Asyraf said if Umno were to make political decisions without considering the interests of the people, the party would surely be punished for creating an uncomfortable and unstable situation. He said Umno’s decision to postpone party elections was to prioritise internal strengthening. “That is what was decided by all delegates and members. Our focus is elections first, whether the Malacca and Johor state elections, which may take place this year, or the general election.” On Friday, Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced that Umno elections would only be held after the 16th general election. – By IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE

Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

‘Support of party and coalition for Madani govt decisive and driven by sincerity, without hidden agenda’

president Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Aziz bluntly suggested that Umno might as well dissolve its divisions in Kelantan, Terengganu and Perlis. The Padang Rengas Umno division chief said working with PAS under the Muafakat Nasional banner would only further marginalise the party, as Umno currently holds no seats in several states within the so-called SG4 bloc. “Politics is about power and right now, we have power. It is ridiculous for us to leave just because of pressure. If we leave now, maybe next month PAS would enter the government. What’s the point then?” In a move that further cements Ahmad Zahid’s position as party leader, as well as Umno and BN’s position in the Madani government, the party postponed elections until after the 16th general election. – By IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE parties wished to be genuine partners, they must treat one another as true friends. He echoed views by Umno leaders that the party should not fear DAP, questioning why certain statements were made to stoke fear. “Why are people saying all sorts of things? They are just making unwanted noise.” He added that political firmness should not be mistaken for hostility. He said those within DAP who continue to question Umno are from the party’s “B team,” implying that they no longer represent or control the party’s main leadership. Ahmad Zahid also expressed sympathy for Anwar, saying that although the government had announced 773 initiatives since the 15th general election, many are not felt at the grassroots level. He said more effective communication is necessary to ensure that policies are clearly understood by the people. Ahmad Zahid told members that Anwar had informed him on Friday that he would be appointed as the minister overseeing Felda and FGV Holdings Bhd, and that he would rope in Datuk Ahmad Maslan as his deputy minister to oversee the entities. He also asked delegates whether they agreed to his suggestion for Umno to open its doors to all Malays as a “House of Malay Unification”. Ahmad Zahid’s proposal was met with strong support.

KUALA LUMPUR: In his winding up speech at the 2025 Umno General Assembly yesterday, party president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi told Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim that the party and Barisan Nasional (BN) are reliable partners. The deputy prime minister highlighted that the support of Umno and BN for Anwar was decisive in enabling him to become the prime minister.

to manage the country. Using an analogy, Ahmad Zahid said Umno should not be treated as expendable. “When cooking curry, curry leaves are put into the pot. But when it’s time to eat, they are pushed aside. Umno is not curry leaves.” He stressed that if political

“If not Zahid, who else would you trust? Even though our seats are small in number – 30, he (Pakatan Harapan) had 82. So, 82 plus 30 is what made it possible for him to become prime minister.” Ahmad Zahid said Umno had no hidden agenda but only wanted to be trusted in helping

Ahmad Zahid delivering his winding-up speech at the assembly yesterday. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

President cements leadership position, unites BN KUALA LUMPUR: The 2025 Umno General Assembly proved to be a powerful demonstration of the Muhamad Akmal Salleh had earlier taken a principled stand by relinquishing his position as a Malacca state executive wing’s leader, one should not just be a “yes man”. Another Umno prodigal son also demonstrated deep

included respect for the party’s decision to remain in the government until the next general election. For those who accuse Ahmad Zahid of abandoning or being disloyal to his predecessor Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak, such claims were decisively rebutted when Ahmad Zahid, before more than 6,000 party delegates, called on the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to grant a royal pardon to Najib, who is currently jailed at Kajang Prison. Criticism of Umno’s cooperation with DAP within the Madani government also fell silent when Federal Territory Umno delegate Datuk Tengku Zuhri Tengku Abdul Aziz reminded party members that Umno does not simply comply with every demand made by its coalition partners. Meanwhile, if party members insist on reviving cooperation with PAS, former Umno vice

respect for the party president. Former Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin Abu Bakar, who once challenged Ahmad Zahid for the Umno presidency, openly told the media that his attendance at the Umno Youth General Assembly was made with Ahmad Zahid’s consent. Khairy was expelled from Umno in 2023 and had previously been vocal in criticising Ahmad Zahid’s leadership. Yet, his remarks to the media last Thursday showed the enduring respect Ahmad Zahid commands. At the same time, Khairy distanced himself from calls by Umno Youth to withdraw support for the Madani government, stressing that Muhamad Akmal’s remarks were more nuanced and

councillor, citing discomfort with Umno’s cooperation in the government led by Pakatan Harapan. However, before making his decision public, Muhamad Akmal had met Ahmad Zahid, who later said he respected the decision and viewed his resignation as an opportunity for the Youth leader to engage more closely with the grassroots. In the current political climate, Umno still needs figures like Muhamad Akmal. There remains a significant segment of the Malay electorate that is sceptical of DAP, a party that Umno itself had once portrayed negatively to Malay voters. Ahmad Zahid, a former Umno Youth chief, knew that being the

NATIONAL 4 theSun on Sunday JAN 18, 2026

Architects urged to inspire young generation

Penang steps up preparations ahead of Thaipusam GEORGE TOWN: As Thaipusam approaches each year, Penang takes centre stage with celebrations rich in tradition, spirituality and cultural harmony. With 14 days remaining before the observance on Feb 1, the Penang Hindu Wakf Board has intensified preparations, with a strong focus on the safety of devotees around the Sri Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple along Jalan Kebun Bunga. More than one million devotees are expected to throng the temple, popularly known as Thaneer Malai . In an exclusive interview with Bernama, board chairman R.S.N. Rayer said one of the major improvements introduced this year is a special permit system for devotees carrying the Ratham Kavadi , a large kavadi resembling a small cart usually pulled by several individuals. He said the system is intended to regulate entry times for the kavadi procession to ensure smoother movement and prevent congestion that could compromise safety, particularly during peak night hours. “We are trying to ensure they do not arrive at the same time. Last year, when several Ratham Kavadis entered between 7pm and 8pm, the congestion was so severe it resulted in a complete gridlock,” he said when met at the temple. Rayer added that the board is encouraging senior citizens, the chronically ill and persons with disabilities to perform their prayers and vows earlier, preferably a week before Thaipusam. He said this year’s celebration will feature 175 Thaneer Panthal or decorated stalls, along the route leading to the hilltop temple. Panthal operators were also reminded to strictly adhere to guidelines, including playing only religious songs, ceasing all music by 11pm on Feb 1 and complying with the ban on entertainment music, firecrackers, fireworks and alcohol consumption. On the movement of the gold chariot belonging to the board and the silver chariot of the Nattukotai Chettiar Temple, Rayer said discussions are ongoing to coordinate their processions to ensure orderly movement, with one chariot leading and the other following. “Both chariots will depart at the same time between 5am and 5.30am, the silver chariot from the Nagarathar Kovil Veedu Temple and the gold chariot from the Maha Mariamman Temple on Queen Street. “The most important thing is that we have reached an understanding. We will work together to organise the movement of the chariots to prevent disputes like those that occurred previously,” he said.

Values, creativity and purpose of profession must resonate with group amid shifting career choices: Minister Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

space investment,” he said. Chang added that Malaysia’s participation in the two treaties marks the next phase in the development of the country’s space sector, which is being implemented in stages under the National Space Policy 2030 launched in 2017. The ministry said the move also protects national interests and enhances Malaysia’s standing as an emerging player in the global space sector, while opening greater opportunities to participate in international outer space programmes, in line with the rapid growth of the industry. – Bernama with and collaboration, results follow,” she said. Meanwhile, MIA president Adrianta Aziz acknowledged the growing influence of AI, but stressed that young architects must adapt rather than resist technological change. “AI is an essential tool, but it cannot replace the human brain and creativity. Just as AutoCAD transformed architecture in our time, AI is a new innovation that can improve results, but human insight remains central,” he said. Adrianta said architecture was not merely about technical skills or terminology, but about aspiration, inspiration and passion. “Architecture is not just about teaching terms or following a syllabus. It is about inspiring young minds and helping them understand design, space and urban life. “At MIA, we have always believed that architecture is ultimately about helping society,” he added. He also stressed the need for architects to balance sustainability, heritage, resilience and local perspectives, ensuring designs respond to future needs while reflecting the values, memories and identities of communities. “This festival challenges us to ask how we design responsibly, how we honour the past while shaping the future and how we build inclusive, humane and green cities. “We seek to involve local residents, students, creatives, businesses and communities, because meaningful architecture responds to real people and real places. “Future culture moves from memory to action. Architecture has the power to transform cities, impact lives and shape our shared tomorrow.” persistence

collaboration among professionals driven by a shared purpose can deliver meaningful outcomes. She highlighted that transforming Malaysia requires time and courage to move away from conventional approaches, urging the private sector and professional bodies to work with authorities to improve public facilities in Kuala Lumpur. She also said the government would work closely with the Malaysian Institute of Architects (MIA) and other professionals to revitalise public spaces, pledging RM20,000 to MIA to support the initiatives. “One of the first priorities is improving public shower facilities. If we want to promote a healthy lifestyle, the infrastructure must support it. This is something we will develop together with stakeholders and explore new ideas. “With only 24 months, I have a very difficult task of turning Kuala Lumpur around. But I know I cannot do it alone and I want to do more. At my first public event as a Federal Territories minister, I am inviting others to walk alongside me,” she added. Yeoh also shared her experience transforming the KL Sports City Stadium, including addressing flooding issues, introducing big screen programmes for football fans and children, opening the stadium for school sports days and optimising idle spaces for concerts and public use. “These efforts increased stadium revenue and fostered community engagement. “This shows that transforming Malaysia takes time and courage. It requires stepping out of the norm and being willing to fail at first. But

“If you ask children today what they want to be, many say ‘influencers’ because they can earn RM15,000 in minutes with a single social media post. Why would they spend five to six years studying architecture and designing for months to earn less? “How do you inspire an eight year-old girl to become an architect for her generation? How will future buildings look? “So, our task is to ensure that architects’ skills, values and convictions resonate with this generation, showing them that architecture still matters,” she said. Yeoh added that while competing with emerging professions is challenging,

KUALA The architectural community has been urged to make its work more relevant to young people, as artificial intelligence and high-paying short-term opportunities increasingly shape career choices. Speaking at the Kuala Lumpur Architecture Festival 2026 yesterday, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh stressed the importance of nurturing values and creativity among young Malaysians, while encouraging them to consider careers in architecture. LUMPUR:

Adrianta (right) and Yeoh during the launch of the Kuala Lumpur Architecture Festival yesterday. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

Malaysia accedes two UN outer space treaties KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has acceded to two key United Nations space treaties, marking a significant step in strengthening the country’s commitment to the safe and responsible governance of outer space activities. participation was finalised with the submission of the instrument of participation by Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hassan at the United Nations General Assembly in the US on Sept 26, 2025. framework that sets out fundamental principles to ensure the use of outer space is carried out safely, responsibly and for the benefit of all humanity,” the ministry added. In the same statement, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang

It described the move as a continuation of the government’s efforts to strengthen governance and regulation of the country’s space activities, beginning with the gazetting of the Malaysia Space Board Act 2022 (Act 834) on Jan 25, 2022 and the full enforcement of the Act on Jan 1, 2025. “The UN Outer Space Treaty provides an international legal

The Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry said in a statement that Malaysia is now a party to the Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, Including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies 1967, as well as the Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space 1975. The ministry said Malaysia’s

described the accession as an important complement that makes Malaysia’s space legal ecosystem more holistic and comprehensive. “Act 834 is our domestic shield, while this treaty is our diplomatic bridge. The combination of these two can position Malaysia as a trusted and safe destination for

NATIONAL 5 theSun on Sunday JAN 18, 2026

Arrested ex-journalist released KUALA LUMPUR: Former Free Malaysia Today

Thirty-year-old detained on Friday freed on police bail after having statement recorded

Duo crushed while repairing lorry brakes KUCHING: Two men were killed after being crushed by a 10-tonne lorry loaded with stones while repairing the brakes on the vehicle along Jalan Mambong in Siburan. According to a statement from the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department Operations Centre, a distress call regarding the incident was received at 2pm on Friday. “The incident occurred when the two victims (the lorry driver and attendant) were repairing the brakes at a quarry road before being crushed and trapped underneath the vehicle. “Rescue operations to extricate the trapped victims were later successfully carried out,” it said. – Bernama Report received on missing actress SEPANG: Police have confirmed receiving a report on the disappearance of actress Nadia Kesuma at the King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. The report was lodged by a family member at the KLIA police headquarters here on Friday. KLIA police chief ACP M. Ravi, when contacted by Bernama, confirmed receiving the report and said further investigations are under way. The actress, whose real name is Nadia Kasumawati Abdul Karim, was reported missing after she could not be traced while transiting at King Abdulaziz International Airport during her flight from Kuala Lumpur to London on Thursday. stressing that such references were unnecessary and should have been avoided. water as he is familiar with Malaysia.” Meanwhile, Saifuddin Nasution said Free Malaysia Today had also issued an apology, clarifying that the incident did not reflect the agency’s position. He said the incident had drawn widespread public reaction, with some supporting the arrest on legal grounds while others opposed it on the basis of suppression of freedom of speech. On Friday, Tan issued a public apology over the incident, expressing regret over the “poorly framed question” and acknowledging that it was not relevant to the event and failed to take into account the sensitivity of the issue. He specifically apologised for mentioning the Chinese and Malay communities,

police, as an enforcement agency, were carrying out their responsibility to ensure compliance with the law and not to suppress public freedoms. “When there is a complaint, the police will consider further action as part of the initial process. “Investigations are ongoing and if he is required to complete the investigation, he may be called at any time,” he added. He said he respected freedom of speech but stressed that such freedom must be exercised responsibly. He added that Tan was covering the event involving Galloway when he made a comparison between the situation in Palestine and the treatment of the Chinese community in Malaysia. “(Galloway’s) response was very clear, stating that the comparison did not hold

journalist Rex Tan, who was arrested on suspicion of raising racial issues during a public lecture on Palestine, was released yesterday afternoon. Tan, who is being probed for sedition, was released on police bail after having his statement recorded, Free Malaysia Today reported Bukit Aman criminal investigation department director M. Kumar as saying. Kumar said the 30-year-old was arrested by a team from the Classified Criminal Investigation Unit at about midnight on Friday. He said the investigation was initiated following a question posed by Tan to UK politician George Galloway during a forum on Jan 12, which allegedly contained elements of racism and incitement. “During the session, Tan

racial issues during the public lecture. Earlier, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Ismail had informed him that Tan would be released after his statement had been recorded. “Investigations are ongoing. Once they are completed and the investigation papers are submitted to the Attorney General’s Chambers, any further decision will fall under their jurisdiction,” he said when met after the Project Mesra Rakyat indenture handover ceremony to a contractor at Kulim Hi Tech Park in Kedah yesterday. Saifuddin Nasution said

raised a question on the Palestinian issue by comparing it with racial conditions in Malaysia. “So far, three police reports have been lodged in connection with the matter, reflecting public concern over the incident,” he said in a statement yesterday. Kumar added that the case is being investigated under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act 1948, Section 505(c) of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. Tan, who has since resigned from Free Malaysia Today, was captured in a video that was widely viewed online showing him raising allegedly

TOTALLY DESTROYED ... Firefighters dousing embers after a blaze involving a double-storey house in Kampung Hulu Sesang, Sarawak yesterday. – PIC COURTESY OF FIRE AND RESCUE DEPARTMENT Trafficking syndicate busted in northern state operations

about RM250,000. “Records show two of the three suspects have criminal records. “However, all tested negative for drugs and other prohibited substances,” he added. Following the initial arrests, a Myanmar man in his 30s, believed to be the syndicate leader, was detained in Nibong Tebal the following day. All four suspects were detained under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 for 28 days until Feb 11, while the foreign nationals were remanded for 14 days under the Immigration Act 1959/63 until Jan 28. – Bernama

in their 40s, and the teenage girl are believed to have acted as transporters, using rented vehicles to ferry the foreign nationals. He said one of the men and the teenager are father and daughter. Interrogations revealed the suspects had been promised payment to transport the foreign nationals and are believed to have carried out similar activities several times over the past eight months. The team seized the MPV and SUV, 18 mobile phones, cash and various jewellery items, with total seizures estimated at

Wednesday by the Intelligence Branch of the GOF Northern Brigade headquarters, in cooperation with Kubang Pasu police. “During the operation, police arrested two local men and a 16-year-old girl believed to be involved in human trafficking and migrant smuggling using two vehicles, an MPV and an SUV. “Further checks uncovered 16 illegal immigrants believed to have entered the country through unregulated routes from neighbouring countries,” he told a press conference yesterday. Balveer said the two men, both

JITRA: The General Operations Force (GOF) has smashed a human trafficking syndicate led by three locals and a Myanmar national in two operations carried out here and in Nibong Tebal, South Seberang Perai in Penang on Wednesday and Thursday. GOF Northern Brigade commander SAC Balveer Singh Mahindar Singh said 16 illegal immigrants believed to be Myanmar nationals, comprising nine men and seven women aged between 16 and 35, were detained. He said the first operation was conducted at the Jitra toll plaza (southbound) at about 4am on

NATIONAL 6 theSun on Sunday JAN 18, 2026

Single platform to list creative entrepreneurs

GEORGE TOWN: In 2020, amid the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, photographer Muhamed Helmy Samsudeen relied on little more than his camera and sheer determination to keep going. From taking on small-scale assignments, he went on to create a digital platform with the potential to reshape the local creative economy. Called One Click Hub, the platform is designed to bring together Penang’s creative sector entrepreneurs into a single, interactive and user-friendly digital app, making it easier for them to promote their services, showcase portfolios and connect directly with customers online. Muhamed Helmy, 31, said his journey in photography began in 2020 after completing a Diploma in Business at a private college in Kuala Lumpur, where he was born and raised. After graduating, he decided to move to Penang in search of fresh opportunities and a broader creative space. He told Bernama that the idea to develop One Click Hub

Photographer builds one-stop, user-friendly digital hub for registered businesses to connect with public

It cost him over RM20,000 to develop One Click Hub, he said, adding that he used his own savings without any external funding. He said One Click Hub is also equipped with artificial intelligence features to help manage bookings and delivery timelines automatically, as well as a live chat function that records all conversations for reference. Muhamed Helmy said a soft launch of One Click Hub was held in 2024 to introduce the idea and concept of the app to the public and the entrepreneurial community, receiving encouraging response, although he took additional time to further refine and improve the system.

Muhamed Helmy said the app allows users to search, compare and book the services of creative industry professionals, such as photographers, videographers and media artists, through a single platform – a concept likened to existing booking apps, but one that is fully focused on the creative economy. “One of the key requirements for joining the platform is that all merchants must be registered with the Companies Commission of Malaysia to protect users from potential scams. “For the general public, registration is simple and free, using only a phone number and OTP verification, with no password required,” he said.

specifically designed to cater to the creative economy, particularly in Penang. “Out of that need, One Click Hub was born – an app that serves as a one-stop digital hub connecting the public with creative industry players,” he said. He added that One Click Hub not only supports small entrepreneurs and digital businesses, but also opens up wider marketing opportunities for content creators, graphic designers, makeup artists, caterers and others in the creative industry.

was sparked following in-depth discussions with former Penang executive councillor Datuk Seri Abdul Halim Hussain on the direction and challenges faced by local entrepreneurs, particularly those in the creative sector. Muhamed Helmy admitted that he faced difficulties in growing his business due to the absence of a dedicated platform that focuses on the unique needs of the creative industry. He said many entrepreneurs have had to rely on general platforms such as Facebook and Google, which are not

Octogenarian mengkuang weaver marvel CHUKAI: Eighty-eight-year-old Zainab Abu Bakar from Kampung Bukit Mentok remains steadfast in preserving the art of weaving mengkuang mats, even as the traditional craft gradually fades amid modernisation. many villagers involved in the craft. “Today, only one elderly woman remains actively weaving mengkuang mats, as the young generation is no longer interested in inheriting this traditional skill,” she told Bernama when met at her home in Kampung Bukit Mentok recently. begins with sourcing and selecting suitable mengkuang leaves, followed by splitting, soaking, dyeing, stringing, drying and finally weaving the mats. “All the work is done by me, with occasional help from my children and grandchildren,” she said.

Despite her advanced age, Zainab’s fingers never tire as she diligently weaves mengkuang leaves with remarkable creativity to fulfil customer orders. She said she learned the skill from her grandfather at the age of 13, having been captivated by the fine craftsmanship of the Malay community. “Previously, Kampung Bukit Mentok was renowned as one of the centres for mengkuang mat production in this district, with

Zainab, who enjoys good health, said she often begins weaving as early as 4am. “I usually go to bed early and wake up before dawn to start weaving. However, I do not weave every day unless there are orders to be completed,” she added. According to her, it takes about five days to complete a mat measuring 2.29m in length and 1.37m in width.

Zainab, who has five daughters, 29 grandchildren, 58 great grandchildren and a niece, said weaving mengkuang mats requires perseverance, precision and a high level of patience, as every stage of the process is carried out manually and takes considerable time to ensure neatness and quality. She explained that the work

Zainab meticulously preparing mengkuang leaves before weaving them into mats. – BERNAMAPIC

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.

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theSun on Sunday JAN 18, 2026

WORLD 7

New treaty to create ‘marine protected areas’

Thailand halts 14 projects after fatal accidents BANGKOK: Thailand’s Transport Ministry has ordered a 15-day construction halt on 14 contracts involving Italian-Thai Development (ITD) PCL as well as other large projects overseen by the ministry, as it conducts safety inspections after two fatal crane accidents in two days. The decision follows a train derailing that killed 32 passengers in northeastern Nakhon Ratchasima on Wednesday and the death of two drivers when their vehicles were crushed near Bangkok 24 hours later, with both incidents caused by the collapse of cranes used on Italian-Thai projects. ITD, founded in 1958 by Italian and Thai partners, has said it accepts responsibility for providing care, compensation and remedies for the losses incurred in both incidents. The halt to the 14 projects would allow expert teams to conduct detailed inspections to ensure safety standards were being met, said Chirapong Theppithuck, deputy permanent secretary of the Transport Ministry. He also ordered other major projects commissioned by the ministry to stop construction for up to 15 days for similar inspections, after which legal or regulatory action would be taken if required, the ministry said in a statement. This week’s crane collapses were the latest in a series of fatal accidents at construction projects in Thailand. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who faces a general election next month, reiterated on Friday that his government would terminate ITD’s contracts for the two accident-hit projects and pursue legal action against the firm. The two projects are an elevated highway near Bangkok and the building of concrete structures for a stretch of an elevated high-speed rail line in the northeast. “The government sees this as a danger to people’s lives and property and has instructed the transport minister to terminate the contracts,“ Anutin said.

Legal regime to address threats

“While we only needed 60 for it to enter into force, obviously it’s really critical for its implementation and for it to be as effective ߑ as possible for us to achieve global or universal ratification of the treaty,” said Rebecca Hubbard, director of the High Seas Alliance, a coalition of environmental groups. “We’re really aiming for all UN member states to ratify the treaty.” Under the treaty, countries must conduct environmental assessments of activities that have an impact on ocean ecology. It will also create mechanisms allowing ߑ nations to share the spoils of the “blue economy”, including “marine genetic resources” used in industries such as biotechnology.

ocean, (and) it’s half the surface of the planet that for the first time will have a comprehensive legal regime,” said Adam McCarthy, first assistant secretary at the Australian Foreign Ministry and a co-chair of the treaty preparatory committee, speaking at a media briefing. The treaty reached the threshold of 60 national ratifications on Sept 19 last year, meaning it would go formally into operation within 120 days. The number of ratifications ߑ has since risen to more than 80, with China, Brazil and Japan adding their names to the list. Others, including Britain and Australia, are expected to follow soon. The United States signed the treaty during the previous administration but has not yet ratified it.

Japan PM mulls suspending sales tax on food TOKYO: Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is considering a pledge to suspend the sales tax on food as part of her campaign for a general election next month, the Mainichi newspaper reported, citing unnamed sources. The government and Takaichi’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) will carefully assess the market impact before deciding, as scrapping the 8% levy on food sales would cut government revenue by an estimated ¥5 trillion (RM122 billion) a year, the newspaper said. A call to the Prime Minister’s Office seeking comment went unanswered. Takaichi plans to dissolve parliament on Friday and call a snap election as she seeks public backing for spending plans that have rattled financial markets. She is considering holding the election on Feb 8, two LDP lawmakers told Reuters. LDP formed a coalition government in October with the right-leaning Japan Innovation Party, known as Ishin, paving the way for Takaichi to become the country’s first female prime minister. The parties said they had agreed to consider legislation that would exempt food and beverages from the consumption tax for two years, without providing further details. – Reuters “The question of mining in the seabed simply belongs to the ISA (International Seabed Authority). It’s not something that the ߑ BBNJ gets a role.” – Reuters Environmentalists say more than 190,000 protected areas would need to be established to meet the “30 by 30” target to bring 30% of the oceans under formal protection by 2030. Currently, only about 8%, or 29 million square kilometres, is protected. But the treaty will have little impact on what some conservationists ߑ identify as one of the greatest threats facing the marine environment – the clamour to extract mineral resources from the ocean bed. “BBNJ is ambitious but there are limits,” McCarthy said.

SINGAPORE: A landmark global treaty to safeguard biodiversity in the high seas came into effect yesterday, providing countries with a legally binding framework to tackle threats such as overfishing and meet a target to protect 30% of the ocean environment by 2030. The UN treaty, also known as Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), was finalised in March 2023 after 15 years of negotiations, and will allow the creation of a global network of “marine protected areas” in vast and ߑ previously unregulated ocean ecosystems lying in international waters. “It’s two-thirds of the

“In this case, actions have posed a danger to the public. Therefore, we must use an administrative order to proceed.” – Reuters China, Canada reach ‘landmark’ deal

ROUSING SUPPORT ... Pheu Thai Party’s prime ministerial candidate Yodchanan Wongsawat greeting supporters with fellow party members and parliamentary candidates during a rally in Samut Prakan city on Friday ahead of the general election next month. – AFPPIC

summit in October. “It can be said our meeting last year opened a new chapter in turning China-Canada relations toward improvement,” Xi told the Canadian leader. “The healthy and stable development of China-Canada relations serves the common interests of our two countries,” he said, adding that he was “glad” to see discussions over the last few months to restore cooperation. – AFP

visitors to enter the country visa free. In return, Canada will import 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles (EV) under new, preferential tariffs of 6.1%. “This is a return to the levels that existed before recent trade frictions,” Carney said. Welcoming Carney in the Great Hall of the People, Xi said China Canada relations reached a turning point at their last meeting on the sidelines of the Apec

reached a preliminary but landmark trade agreement to remove trade barriers and reduce tariffs,” Carney told a news conference after meeting Xi on Friday. Under the deal, China, which used to be Canada’s largest market for canola seed, is expected to reduce tariffs on canola products by March 1 to about 15%, down from 84%. China will also allow Canadian

BEIJING: Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney and President Xi Jinping agreed on a raft of measures from trade to tourism at the first meeting between the countries’ leaders in Beijing in eight years. The Canadian leader hailed a “landmark deal” under a “new strategic partnership” with China, turning the page on years of diplomatic spats, tit-for-tat arrests and tariff disputes. “Canada and China have

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theSun on Sunday JAN 18, 2026

WORLD 8

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Rubio, Blair, Kushner in Gaza board

WASHINGTON: The White House on Friday announced some members of a so-called “Board of Peace” that is to supervise the temporary governance of Gaza, which has been under a fragile ceasefire since October. The names include US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair ߑ and Trump’s son-in law, Jared Kushner. US officer to head stabilisation force

cooperation Reem Al-Hashimy, and Israeli-Cypriot billionaire Yakir Gabay, along with some members of the executive board. This additional board will support Mladenov’s office and the Palestinian technocratic body, whose details were announced this week, the White House said. Israel and Hamas have accused each other of ceasefire violations in Gaza, where more than 450 Palestinians, including over 100 children, and three Israeli soldiers have been reported killed during the ߑ truce. – Reuters

Army Major-Gen Jasper Jeffers, a US special operations commander, was appointed commander of the International Stabilisation Force, the White House said. A UN Security Council resolution, adopted in mid November, authorised the board and countries working with it to establish the force in Gaza. The White House also named an 11-member “Gaza Executive Board” that will include Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, UN special coordinator ߑ for the Middle East peace process Sigrid Kaag, United Arab Emirates minister for international

history of ߑ British imperialism. The White House did not detail the responsibilities of each member of the “founding executive board”. The names do not include any Palestinians. The White House said more members will be announced soon. The board will also include private equity executive and billionaire Marc Rowan, World Bank President Ajay Banga and Robert Gabriel, a Trump adviser, the White House said, adding that Nickolay Mladenov, a former UN Middle East envoy, ߑ will be the high representative for Gaza.

Trump is the chair of the board, according to a plan the White House unveiled in October. Israel and Hamas signed off on Trump’s plan, which says a Palestinian technocratic body will be overseen by the international board, which will supervise Gaza’s governance for a transitional period. Many rights experts and advocates have said Trump overseeing a board to supervise a foreign territory’s governance resembled a colonial structure, while Blair’s involvement was criticised last year due to his role in the Iraq war and the

Venezuela sacks Maduro ally CARACAS: Venezuela’s interim president on Friday dismissed businessman Alex Saab, a close ally of deposed leader Nicolas Maduro, from his post as minister of industry. Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said her country is starting a “true transition” to democracy and will become free with support from the United States and President Donald Trump.

Delcy Rodriguez announced the ministry would be combined with a Commerce Ministry and thanked Saab, a Colombian-born Venezuelan, “for his service to the Homeland, he will be taking on new responsibilities”. The change comes amid pressure from Washington. Saab, released in 2023 as part of a prisoner exchange with the United States, was appointed to office in 2024 by Maduro. He had been arrested in Cape Verde in 2020 due to an Interpol notice over accusations he had served as a money launderer for the socialist leader. He was subsequently extradited to the US, where he and his business partner Alvaro Pulido were charged with running a network that exploited food aid destined for Venezuela.

However, Trump has sidelined Nobel laureate Machado and backed former vice-president Rodriguez as interim leader of the oil-rich country following the seizure of Maduro. The opposition leader’s remarks came a day after US Central Intelligence Agency chief John Ratcliffe met Rodriguez in Caracas. Ratcliffe travelled to Venezuela to “deliver the message that the United States looks forward to an improved working relationship”, a US administration official said on condition of anonymity. In an indication of that improved relationship, a US deportation flight carrying 231 Venezuelans landed in Caracas on Friday, the first since Maduro’s overthrow. – AFP

Demonstrators marching in Caracas on Friday demanding the release of Maduro. – REUTERSPIC

Push to disqualify prosecutors in activist murder case PROVO: A Utah judge on Friday heard arguments from a lawyer for the alleged killer of activist Charlie Kirk to dismiss the prosecution team over an alleged conflict of interest. Defence lawyers argued that a decision by the Utah County Attorney’s Office to seek the death penalty for Robinson less than a week after Kirk’s death showed a “strong emotional reaction” from the senior lawyer and prosecution team he supervises. debated students at Utah Valley University in Orem during a tour of colleges. Utah County attorney Jeffrey Gray testified that the senior lawyer’s daughter, a student at Utah Valley University, was just one of thousands of people present when Kirk was shot.

Musk seeks US$134b in ‘wrongful gains’ LOS ANGELES: Elon Musk is seeking up to US$134 billion (RM544 billion) from OpenAI and Microsoft, arguing he deserves the “wrongful gains” that they received from his early support. OpenAI gained between trial, expected to start in April. Musk’s filing says he contributed about US$38 million, 60% of OpenAI’s early seed funding, helped recruit staff, connect the founders with key contacts and lend credibility to the project.

District Court Judge Tony Graf considered the motion to disqualify the Utah County Attorney’s Office from prosecuting the case on grounds the 18-year-old daughter of one of its senior lawyers witnessed Kirk’s Sept 10 killing. Tyler Robinson, Kirk’s alleged killer, appeared relaxed and at times smiled during the hearing in which Graf barred a court videographer from filming close-ups of him talking to his attorney over concerns about lip reading. Kirk is credited with mobilising young conservative voters who helped President Donald Trump win the 2024 election.

US$65.5 billion and US$109.4 billion from the entrepreneur’s contributions when he was co founding OpenAI from 2015, while Microsoft gained between US$13.3 billion and US$25.1 billion, Musk said in a federal court filing. OpenAI has called the lawsuit “baseless” and part of a “harassment” campaign by Musk. A Microsoft lawyer has said there is no evidence that the company “aided and abetted” OpenAI. Musk, who left OpenAI in 2018 and now runs xAI with its competitor chatbot Grok, alleges that ChatGPT operator OpenAI violated its founding mission in a restructuring to a for-profit entity. A judge in Oakland, California, has ruled that a jury will hear the

“Just as an early investor in a startup company may realise gains many orders of magnitude greater than the investor’s initial investment, the wrongful gains that OpenAI and Microsoft have earned are much larger than Mr Musk’s initial contributions,” Musk argues. The filing says Musk’s contributions were calculated by his expert witness, financial economist C. Paul Wazzan. Musk may seek punitive damages and other penalties, including a possible injunction, if the jury finds either company liable, the filing says, without specifying what form any injunction might take. – Reuters

“What she could testify to is uncontested,” said Gray, adding that he saw no conflict of interest in her father’s role in the prosecution. In court documents, Gray said his decision to seek the death penalty was motivated by the nature of the murder, which put other people’s lives in danger. Much of Friday’s hearing dealt with a defence request that the Utah Attorney General’s office respond to its disqualification motion, rather than the Utah County Attorney’s Office. The next hearing in the case is on Feb 3. – Reuters

Robinson’s attorney Richard Novak said the office should be barred from the case as no effort was made to shield prosecutors from the senior lawyer’s conflict of interest. “There was no effort to screen off that prosecutor, and that has now created a problem for the whole office,” Novak told the court, citing text messages the lawyer’s daughter sent him saying Kirk had been shot that were subsequently shared with members of the prosecution team. Robinson, 22, is accused of firing a single round from a rooftop that hit Kirk as he