26/01/2026

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BN victories in Kinabatangan and Lamag attributed to alliance with GRS Beyond legacy support, pact between coalitions proved decisive in securing commanding margins: Analyst Report on — page 2

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p 25 Realising personal film project with technology

Call to stay Year 1 plan Private kindergarten operators appeal for postponement of pupils entering primary schools at age six, to explore clearer implementation details and prevent disruptions to early childhood education sector. Report on h page 2

A boy participating in the ‘Year-End Blessing’ ceremony held yesterday at the KL Tzu-Chi Jing Si Hall in Kepong, Kuala Lumpur. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

Tzu Chi Foundation holds ceremony to commemorate local and overseas humanitarian, community programmes. Event to celebrate sixty years of service through education, disaster relief Report on — page 4

Tipping culture catching on thanks to e-hailing and delivery apps trend Report While practice allows users to express thanks, workers say gesture driven by goodwill rather than set system. on — page 5

MONDAY | JAN 26, 2026

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‘Barisan victories in by-elections no surprise’

King departs for special visit to Russia JOHOR BAHRU: His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim departed yesterday for Russia for a special visit until Tuesday. The King’s visit to Saint Petersburg is at the special invitation of President Vladimir Putin, said a post on Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar’s official Facebook page. The aircraft carrying His Majesty took off from the royal hangar at Senai International Airport at 8.25am. The Regent of Johor Tunku Mahkota Ismail and the Tunku Temenggong of Johor Tunku Idris Iskandar Al-Haj were present to send off Sultan Ibrahim. – Bernama Winners pledge to serve well KUALA LUMPUR: Mohd Kurniawan Naim Moktar and Mohd Ismail Ayob thanked voters on Saturday after winning the Kinabatangan parliamentary and Lamag state by-elections respectively. The Barisan Nasional (BN) leaders said the results reflect public confidence in leadership continuity and political stability. Mohd Kurniawan, 32, who retained the traditional BN stronghold of Kinabatangan, described the mandate as a huge responsibility and pledged to develop the constituency. “Thank you so much to my mother, the entire BN and party machineries in the Sabah Unity government and the most appreciated (Kinabatangan) community who have celebrated our democracy today. “Obviously, this mandate is a huge responsibility and I promise to work for the community who elected me. Insya Allah, I will serve the people well.” Mohd Ismail, 44, said his Lamag win was a mandate to carry the voice of residents to the state assembly and continue his work with NGOs. “Thank you to all Lamag residents who never stopped supporting me, and also those who did not. Let’s hope with the end of today’s election, we can rekindle our ties and make Lamag a place to come together.” Mohd Kurniawan secured a majority of 14,214 votes, defeating Warisan’s Datuk Saddi Abdul Rahman and independent Goldam Hamid, retaining the seat held by his father since 1999. Mohd Ismail won the Lamag state seat with a majority of 5,681 votes against Warisan’s Mazliwati Abdul Malek. BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the victories reflect the people’s trust in leadership continuity and the stability expected for both constituencies. He called it a “great trust that must be borne with full responsibility in continuing the service legacy of the late Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin who made Kinabatangan and Lamag central to his lifelong struggle”. Sabah BN chairman Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said the results symbolised unity in leadership, maturity of political cooperation and public confidence in Sabah’s development direction. “To Naim and Miha (Mohd Ismail), the trust given must be shouldered with full responsibility and high commitment to ensure Kinabatangan and Lamag continue to be protected, empowered and developed sustainably.” Umno secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki praised the party machinery for its effectiveness and congratulated the winners on continuing the leadership legacy of the late Bung Moktar. – Bernama

o Beyond legacy, coalition’s strong alliance with GRS proves decisive in securing commanding margins, says academic

He said with BN’s victors being young, voters are increasingly demanding tangible results over legacy politics. “Entrenched networks in rural areas mean change won’t happen overnight and progress is likely to be incremental rather than abrupt.” Romzi also flagged policies dealing with affordable living, education and skills training as well as rural connectivity as issues that resonate across generations. On infrastructure promises, such as the Pan Borneo Highway in Kinabatangan, he said delivery must be paired with clear timelines, open procurement, regular updates and independent oversight to ensure efficiency and maintain public trust. Mohd Kurniawan Naim Moktar, son of the late Bung Moktar, won the Kinabatangan parliamentary seat with 19,852 votes, a majority of 14,214. Mohd Kurniawan described his victory as a reflection of the growing democratic maturity of the Kinabatangan electorate. “This mandate comes with great responsibility. I pledge to work for the community that has chosen me. I was elected based on various policies and I will carry out this duty with full commitment.” He added that while the role of an elected representative is not permanent, he remains committed to serving the people sincerely. Mohd Ismail Ayob, commonly known as Miha, secured 7,269 votes to claim the Lamag state seat. Miha said his election would allow him to bring the people’s voice to a higher platform. “My experience working with NGOs will strengthen my role as an assemblyman.”

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

BN, even if not in the numbers initially expected. This reflects the cooperation between the two coalitions and reinforces the perception that BN is part of the state government.” Azmi said BN’s long-term success in Sabah hinges on maintaining strong partnerships with local parties rather than relying on Pakatan Harapan (PH). “Despite BN and GRS contesting against each other in the last state election, the results show that BN needs to relearn how to assert dominance in Sabah politics. That requires a strong alliance with GRS.” He said while BN may contest solo in upcoming elections, “solo” does not mean standing alone. Regarding an alliance with PH, Azmi said the coalition plays a minor role in Sabah, where the primary challenge comes from local parties, particularly GRS, in countering Warisan’s influence. Universiti Malaysia Sabah political analyst Assoc Prof Dr Romzi Ationg said elected representatives must prioritise consistent service delivery, transparent communication, cost-of-living relief and visible constituency engagement. “Demonstrating integrity and responsiveness beyond election cycles is crucial to building trust steadily among diverse voters.”

PETALING JAYA: Barisan Nasional’s (BN) victories in the Kinabatangan parliamentary and Lamag state by-elections were widely anticipated. Beyond legacy, the coalition’s strong alliance with the current Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) state government proved decisive in securing commanding margins. Nusantara Academy for Strategic Research senior fellow Dr Azmi Hassan described BN’s wins as a “resurgence”, highlighting the significant margins compared with the 2025 state election and the 2022 general election. “BN retaining both Kinabatangan and Lamag was expected. What stood out, however, whether surprising or not, was the significantly larger majority compared with previous elections. “The late Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin did not secure particularly large majorities before, especially in Lamag.” Azmi said votes cast as a tribute to him contributed to BN’s strong performance, particularly given the coalition’s role in the state government. However, he added: “BN requires a strong ally, and in this case, that ally is GRS. “This was especially evident in Lamag, where GRS supporters turned out to vote for

Mohd Kurniawan and Mohd Ismail (left) celebrating their victories in the by-elections. – BERNAMAPIC

Barisan victories must be met with strong sense of responsibility: Anwar KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the Barisan Nasional (BN) victories in the Sabah by-elections reflect the people’s continued confidence in the efforts, service and commitment shown at the grassroots level. In a post on his Facebook page yesterday, Anwar said the success must be met with a strong sense of responsibility as it represents the trust of the people who expect leadership with integrity, effective service delivery and the ability to meet community needs in an inclusive and sustained manner. “The Madani government will continue to uphold the spirit of consensus and togetherness to ensure that development in Sabah is further strengthened, the wellbeing of the people remains safeguarded and the agenda is realised through shared determination.” Anwar congratulated BN on successfully retaining both the parliamentary and state seats, and extended his congratulations to the

newly representatives, Mohd Kurniawan Naim Moktar and Mohd Ismail Ayob. He expressed hope that the legacy of service and leadership left by the late Bung Moktar Radin, would continue to be upheld. – Bernama elected

MONDAY | JAN 26, 2026

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Private kindergartens call for postponement of Year 1 plan

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

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Private Early Childhood Educators Coalition has called on the government to postpone the implementation of the policy requiring children to enter Year 1 at the age of six under the National Education Plan 2026–2035. While welcoming the government’s aim to strengthen national education standards and improve early learning outcomes, the coalition also urged for a one-year transition period to give private kindergartens time to adjust, along with pilot projects and formal consultations with private operators. “The government should postpone Year 1 entry at age six and allow at least one year for a proper transition,” a coalition said in a statement. “Pilot projects should be conducted before nationwide enforcement, and there must be formal consultations with private

o Group supports reform goals but raises concerns over readiness and lack of formal consultations kindergarten operators to ensure the changes are implemented smoothly. “The structural changes are expected to have significant implications for the private kindergarten and preschool

Kemas curriculum to be revamped: Zahid BAGAN DATUK: Kindergartens under the Community Development Department (Kemas) will continue their role in educating three to four-year-old children in line with the National Education Blueprint 2026-2035, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Zahid, who is also minister of Rural and Regional Development, said the curriculum for the Tabika and Tadika kindergartens under Kemas, as well as the Unity kindergartens, will be revamped to ensure continuity into the preschool classes for five-year-olds under the Education Ministry. “Last Friday’s cabinet meeting decided that the ministry will coordinate preschool education, whereby five-year-olds are required to attend classes in national schools and schools under the ministry,”he told the media after the groundbreaking ceremony for QL Inno Food Parks Bagan Datuk here yesterday. – Bernama It also proposed a special licensing framework and a dedicated department under the Education Ministry to oversee kindergartens, childcare centres and care facilities. “The coalition is committed to working constructively with the government to ensure that education policies are implemented in a planned, inclusive manner that does not compromise industry stability or the well-being of children,” it said. The group is expected to submit its recommendations to the prime minister today. the sector. It said policy clarity is essential to preserve education quality, warning that uncertainty could lead to higher staff turnover and loss of experienced teachers. “The introduction of academic pressure and early assessment for those as young as five has the potential to place emotional stress on children, create anxiety among parents and shift the focus of early childhood education away from holistic development towards purely academic achievement,” the group added. On religious education, the coalition said kindergartens play a formative role, particularly for Muslim children. “Early transition into Year 1 without completing this foundational phase of early education risks disrupting the continuity of character development and identity formation,” it said. The group also warned that enrolment could decline sharply, leaving kindergartens with only four year-old pupils and increasing the risk of closure if the deferment is not carefully managed. Besides calling for the postponement, the coalition recommended pilot projects before nationwide implementation and formal consultations with private kindergarten operators.

five-year-old child, said early exposure to formal learning helps children build strong academic foundations and gain self confidence at an earlier stage. “The earlier children are exposed to learning, the better and faster they can adapt to future educational challenges. “Having moved from Year 3 to Year 5 when I was growing up, I found that it helped strengthen my knowledge, align with my potential and build strong self-confidence.” Amirah however, said the success of the policy hinges on parents’ commitment to ensuring their children are fully prepared for their studies. The move is also in line with the National Education Blueprint 2026 2035, which emphasises a humanistic value framework, mastery of new technologies, and the strengthening of students’ academic, social and self-confidence skills. – Bernama kindergarten operators. It said an impact study on workforce, operational and financial implications was also not done. Last week, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek was reported as urging parents not to panic over the entry of Year 1 at age six in 2027, stressing that only children deemed ready through a special assessment will be selected. She said the ministry would conduct diagnostic tests to evaluate factors such as the child’s psycho-emotional state. She said parents should remain calm as this would be an optional reform, not mandatory and placement will be based on the child’s readiness, not parental choice. Industry stakeholders met in Cyberjaya on Saturday to assess the announcement and its potential effects on private operators. Following the meeting, the coalition – comprising kindergarten operators, association representatives and other stakeholders – formed a social media group which had 516 members as of press time. The group expressed concerns over daily preschool operations, business sustainability, children’s learning environments and the practical and financial impact on parents. “Private kindergartens have long served as the backbone of children’s preparation before entering government schools. This sudden change has disrupted student enrolment planning, affected class structures and teacher–student ratios, and created operational and financial uncertainty for thousands of private kindergartens,” it said. The coalition estimated that Malaysia has more than 8,000 registered private kindergartens employing over 100,000 teachers, the majority of whom are women who have built long-term careers in

ecosystem nationwide,” the group said in a statement. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced last Tuesday that, starting next year, children would enter Year 1 at six instead of seven, as part of the government’s broader education reform agenda. The move, which is optional, aims to provide structured learning earlier and align Malaysia’s education system more closely with international standards. However, the coalition noted that the policy was unveiled without a clear transition plan and formal consultation with private

‘Early enrolment builds confidence, foundations’ KUALA LUMPUR: Voluntary enrolment of Year 1 pupils at age six (5+) is viewed as a comprehensive approach that takes into account students’ development and potential, amid growing exposure to technology. on the shared responsibility of key stakeholders. preschool programmes at six that emphasise socio-emotional development and play-based learning,” said Azlina. National Parent-Teacher Associations Consultative Council (PIBGN) president Datuk Dr Private kindergarten operators said clearer implementation details are needed to ensure the Year 1 at six policy is carried out smoothly and without disrupting the early childhood education sector. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

Drawing on the experience of countries such as Singapore, China, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia and Thailand, which have long adopted the approach, the lecturer at the Faculty of Educational Sciences and Technology said age was not the determining factor, but the extent to which the education system supported student readiness and provided an effective learning environment. “This is not an unusual practice. In the United Kingdom, Australia and the United States, children begin formal education at the age of five through transitional programmes like Reception (the first mandatory year of primary school for children aged 4 to 5) or kindergarten before entering the first year of school. “Meanwhile, countries such as Finland and Sweden begin formal schooling at the age of seven, but provide high-quality compulsory

Describing the policy as centred on individual potential and grounded in developmental psychology, Prof Dr Azlina Mohd Kosnin of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia said chronological age should not be the only factor in assessing a child’s development. “Children develop at their own pace and some show early maturity in certain aspects. From this perspective, the policy provides opportunities for children who attain early maturity while ensuring those who need more time are not left behind,” she told Bernama. Azlina said the policy was a proactive step to strengthen education competitiveness and develop quality human capital, but stressed that its success depended

Muhammad Ali Hassan said the implementation of the policy was a suitable and dynamic step towards comprehensively overcoming pedagogical gaps in education, especially at the preschool level. “We can see an educational gap among children aged five to seven, particularly in terms of curriculum and preschool approaches – there are differences in content, infrastructure and teacher training. “Therefore, adjustments must be made to ensure all children receive adequate education. We do not want any group to be overlooked when entering primary school with insufficient academic, emotional or psychological readiness,” he said. Amirah Alam, 35, a mother of a

MONDAY | JAN 26, 2026

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Tzu Chi marks 60 years of humanitarian service o Ceremony held to celebrate decades of education, community and disaster relief work nationwide and overseas Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PSC targets appointment of

30,000 civil servants KUANTAN: The Public Service Commission (PSC) is targeting 30,000 civil servant appointments this year, compared with the 25,000 appointments last year. Its chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Jailani Muhamed Yunus said the target was in line with the need to replace retiring officers as well as the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure the continuity of public service delivery to the people. He said although applications for the civil service recorded a decrease of about 200,000 from 1.2 million in 2024 to around one million in 2025, Ahmad Jailani remained optimistic that the number of applications would increase again in 2026 and 2027. “The number of applications to the PSC recorded around 1.2 million in 2024, while last year it decreased to one million. However, we expect the number to be maintained at more than one million this year, God willing.” He told reporters this at the Kuantan PSC Madani Career Journey programme at a hotel here yesterday. In addition, Ahmad Jailani said the decrease in applications for the civil service was due to the implementation of new qualification requirements under the Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA) which sets the minimum qualification of Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM). “The SSPA starts with SPM and above, therefore we see this reduction in the number of applications for those who only have Sijil Rendah Pelajaran (SRP), Penilaian Menengah Rendah (PMR) or lower qualifications,“ he said. Commenting on the career programme, he said it was the first time it was held in Pahang and was PSC’s ongoing effort to reach out to youth and job seekers. – Bernama Bus schedule adjusted for tourist experience KUCHING: The free electric bus schedule to the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre near here has been adjusted to improve the tourist experience, especially in ensuring punctual arrival at the orangutan feeding time. Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the adjustment was made after it was discovered that the previous schedule had caused some tourists to arrive late, thus missing out on the opportunity to witness the animal feeding session. “Based on the old schedule, some buses were not fully utilised because tourists arrived after the orangutan feeding time. So, the schedule needs to be adjusted to better meet the needs of tourists.” “The orangutan feeding time at the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre is held twice a day, at around 10 am and between 3 and 4 pm, and the new bus schedule has now been arranged earlier to meet those needs,“ he told reporters during a working visit on an electric bus from the Open Air Market to the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre yesterday. He explained that the visit was to assess the effectiveness of the new routes and schedules introduced, as well as to ensure that the use of the electric bus service was more optimal and in line with the main activity schedule at the wildlife centre. Abdul Karim said the free electric bus service also passes through several major hotels around Kuching to facilitate the movement of tourists and locals. To date, the Sarawak government has provided four electric buses that are environmentally friendly, in line with the state’s commitment towards sustainable tourism and reducing carbon emissions. – Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: Hundreds of volunteers and dignitaries, including Berjaya Corporation Bhd founder and advisor Tan Sri Vincent Tan, gathered yesterday as the Tzu Chi Foundation marked 60 years of transforming lives through compassion, education and disaster relief. From reaching stateless children to rushing aid to flood-hit communities, the foundation’s work has touched thousands – and yesterday’s Year-End Blessing ceremony was a vivid remembrance of decades of selfless service. Tan, who has supported Tzu Chi’s charitable initiatives since 2017, participated in the ceremony which showcased the foundation’s humanitarian, educational and community programmes across Malaysia and abroad. The event also featured accomplished biologist and award-winning volunteer Chee Hui Yee who shared a deeply personal account of how faith-based education and community service reshaped her family and parenting journey over the past two decades. Chee, who described herself as a former “tiger mother” – strict, demanding and focused on academic success – joined the Parent-Child Bonding Class (PCBC) in 2006 after hearing that Buddhist teachings could transform family relationships. The programme introduced her to Tzu Chi founder Master Cheng Yen’s philosophy of kindness, positivity and leading by example, prompting her to rethink her approach to parenting. “The classes helped me realise the emotional impact my harsh approach could have had on my children,” Chee said. “I began involving my daughters in community and humanitarian activities under Tzu Chi, making volunteering a family practice that nurtures confidence, empathy and social responsibility. “As Asian parents, we tend to scold more than we praise, but through community service, my children experienced encouragement and appreciation from others.” Over the years, the family has taken part in local and international humanitarian missions, including disaster relief following Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines, the 2015 Nepal earthquake, floods in France and refugee assistance in Syria. Chee also conducted Jing Si Aphorisms

Tan (centre) participating in the ‘Year-End Blessing’ ceremony yesterday. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

During the major Sarawak floods earlier this year, Tzu Chi volunteers assisted over 17,000 residents. With limited manpower in East Malaysia, 172 volunteers from Klang Valley travelled at their own expense to Miri and Bintulu, visiting more than 4,600 households and distributing cash aid to over 2,800 families. The foundation also responded swiftly following the gas explosion in Putra Heights, Subang Jaya which injured 145 people and displaced numerous families. Within three weeks, emergency financial assistance reached 248 households, while volunteers conducted home visits providing emotional support regardless of religion or ethnicity. Tzu Chi’s Assistive Device Centre, launched in 2024 has loaned over 2,300 medical devices, including wheelchairs and hospital beds free of charge, benefiting an average of 166 families each month. Other initiatives include supporting the underprivileged, refugee and stateless children through subsidies and tuition programmes. He said the road and bridge construction projects in Nanga Bangkit and Nanga Nansang Tekalit, as well as the Song Waterfront and Jungle Produce Market projects, were set to improve access to the interior, enhance the town’s aesthetics and spur local economic growth. Nanta also said that the Jalan Nanga Kabah/SK Beguang project under the Rural and Regional Development Ministry was currently being implemented and is scheduled for completion in 2027. At the ceremony, he also presented letters of appointment to three new community leaders and 43 t uai rumah (traditional head of the longhouse) in addition to certificates of appreciation to three retired community leaders. – Bernama

sessions in schools, promoting gentle moral education and emotional healing for children affected by disasters. “You don’t need to tell children what to do – you show them through your actions,” she said, adding that her children gradually came to see service as a way of life. Her eldest daughter, who grew up attending PCBC activities, became a Tzu Chi commissioner in 2025. The foundation will continue its 60th anniversary celebrations on May 10 at the National Hockey Stadium, Bukit Jalil, combining Buddha Day, Mother’s Day and Tzu Chi Day, while remaining committed to serving communities and inspiring families to volunteer, with an expected 10,000 participants. Beyond personal stories, Tzu Chi representatives highlighted the foundation’s extensive humanitarian impact in Malaysia. In 2025 alone, volunteers recorded over 66,000 service instances, providing long-term assistance to more than 2,400 families nationwide. He expressed appreciation to the Sarawak Public Works Department and its Kapit division, Kapit District Council and the contractor for efficiently executing the project and meeting both the specifications and contract timeline. Nanta also witnessed the symbolic handover of equipment under the Community@Score Recoda socioeconomic programme implemented by the Ulu Rajang Development Agency. The pilot project involved nine participants from the inland fisheries sector in the Song district, with each receiving seven types of equipment, including fibre boats and outboard engines, to boost freshwater fish production and enhance household income. In other developments, he said several physical development projects were being implemented and would be carried out in the Song and Kapit areas, including the Nanga Banjor/Nanga Makut and Nanga Makut/Nanga

‘Govt committed to enhancing rural infrastructure’ KAPIT: The government remains committed to strengthening rural infrastructure to enhance the people’s wellbeing, said Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi. Engkuah road projects as well as the proposed construction of roads and bridges connecting Jalan Nanga Belawai to Jalan Song–Kapit.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of Dewan Kebiau at the Song Resettlement Scheme Phase II in Kebiau yesterday, he said the RM1.92 million multi-purpose hall represents another key facility for the local community and demonstrates the state and federal governments’ commitment to delivering modern and inclusive infrastructure in rural areas. “The project was fully completed on May 13, 2024. It has become a testament to progress and unity in the district,” he said. Nanta, who is also the Kapit MP, said Dewan Kebiau was more than a venue for gatherings, serving as a hub for cultural, social, economic, educational and religious activities that strengthen community ties.

MONDAY | JAN 26, 2026

5 E-hailing, food delivery apps driving tipping culture

Teen nabbed four times for riding motorcycle without valid licence KUALA LUMPUR: A 17-year-old boy was arrested for a fourth time for riding a motorcycle without a valid licence during Ops Samseng Jalanan on the Duta-Ulu Kelang (DUKE) Expressway in Sentul yesterday. He had been summoned three three times previously for the same offence. The teenager from Wangsa Maju said he had to work at a restaurant to settle the summonses totalling about RM900 as both his parents were unemployed. He said he was on his way to a friend’s house when he was arrested. The teen claimed he was in the process of obtaining his licence, and expects to get it by the end of the month, adding that his parents had told him to take responsibility for his actions. Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department chief ACP Mohd Zamzuri Mohd Isa said the arrest was made during a special operation following complaints about street gang activities and disturbances in the area. He said illegal racing had been detected since last year, especially on weekends, along a 1.8km stretch of the expressway towards the Gombak Interchange. He added that the races involved riders from various places in the Klang Valley, including Gombak, Kajang and Cheras. The operation, held from 9pm on Sunday to 5am yesterday, involved 10 officers and 106 Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department personnel, with assistance from the National Anti-Drug Agency and the DUKE concessionaire. From Jan 1 to yesterday, 40 arrests were made under Section 42 of the Road Transport Act. During simultaneous operations at several roads, 450 motorcycles were inspected, 83 seized, six riders arrested under Section 42 and one detained for methamphetamine use under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o While practice appreciated, workers say gesture still informal and dependent on goodwill rather than standardised system

as sufficient compensation. “The emergence of tipping in Malaysia is more likely linked to heightened awareness of rising living costs and perceptions that many service workers are financially vulnerable. “Consumers may tip out of empathy or solidarity rather than adherence to a social custom. “If tips are seen as a supplementary income source, employers may feel less pressure to raise base wages,” he said. “Over time, this could blur expectations of fair pay and introduce income instability, particularly during slower business periods.” – By FAIZ RUZMAN tips are not given, it could lead to arguments. “There is also a risk that e-hailing companies may lower fares to unsustainable levels, assuming customers will compensate drivers through tips.” Gabungan e-Hailing Malaysia chairman Marizal Mahidin, 46, who is also known as Jose Rizal, said tips for workers on platforms such as Grab, Bolt and Lalamove come two or three times a week at most. “It’s usually because the customer is satisfied with the service. Tipping is not an obligation or a cultural norm in Malaysia but a sign of appreciation for good service. That’s usually how it is.” Kumaran Thonkamani, 44, a Grab driver said tips are rare and usually small, at about RM2. He said they are given for long-distance travel or when passengers feel the fare is too low for the distance travelled. “It doesn’t change how I work. But sometimes, it helps reduce pressure, especially when fares are very low.” While e-hailing drivers occasionally receive tips, workers in F&B outlets say the practice is largely absent. Sharifah Irsya Dayana Syed Hamzah, 26, who previously worked as a cafe server and now earns below RM2,000 as an administrative analyst, said her former workplace had a no-tipping policy. “If tipping were normal, it might motivate workers, especially considering how demanding F&B work can be.” That view was echoed by Ilyana Farisya, 22, a university student working part-time at a cafe in Subang, Selangor. “Tipping should remain a choice for customers. “It would help if F&B tipping policies were more transparent and accepted, especially for part timers who are students, as it is increasingly difficult to cover everyday expenses regardless of the job.”

PETALING JAYA: Tipping as an expression of gratitude is more visible than ever in Malaysia, thanks to ride-hailing and food delivery apps. Yet for most service workers, tips remain unpredictable, sporadic and far from a guaranteed part of their income. While some customers offer tips as a gesture of thanks, workers say the practice is still informal, rather than a standardised system, leaving them dependent on the goodwill of customers. According to e-hailing and food and beverage (F&B) sector workers, tips are largely optional.

the car is clean,” he told theSun. Hoh added that if tipping becomes expected, it could do more harm than good. “Tipping may improve a driver’s income but only in the short term. If fares become cheaper over time, drivers may no longer be able to sustain vehicle maintenance, making tips meaningless. “If tipping becomes expected, service standards will rise but so will expectations. When

Yet, the growing visibility of tipping is creating subtle pressures, raising questions about where appreciation ends and obligation begins. For full-time Grab driver Hoh Kok Kin, 38, tips come occasionally, sometimes as little as 50 sen, sometimes up to RM10. “Sometimes, it’s because I help with luggage or a wheelchair. Other times, it’s because the drive is smooth or

For most workers, tips are unpredictable, sporadic and far from a guaranteed part of their income. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA /THESUN Most of the seized motorcycles were modified and most riders were aged 16 to 19, with some as young as 14. Mohd Zamzuri advised parents to monitor their children closely. – Bernama ‘Inclusion of service charge makes tips unnecessary’ PETALING JAYA: For many

Malaysia remains largely voluntary and situational, rather than a social expectation. Echoing this view, Universiti Teknologi Mara economist Dr Mohamad Idham Md Razak said the rise of digital tipping options should not be mistaken for a full cultural shift. “The increased visibility of tipping through digital platforms, QR payments and tip jars reflects greater exposure rather than a genuine behavioural change. “In Malaysia, tipping remains largely voluntary and situational, not an established social norm.” Mohamad Idham said most consumers still regard service charges

payments unnecessary. Socio-Econmic Research Centre executive director Lee Heng Guei said the practice varies across countries and depends heavily on how service workers are compensated. “In many countries, tipping varies by culture. In the US, it can be 10% to 20% of the bill and is considered an obligation. In Europe and much of Asia, expectations are lower, and service charges are more common. “When a service charge is already included, that is effectively the tip. You generally don’t expect customers to give more. Even in Singapore, tipping is not widely practised.” Lee said this distinction is key to understanding why tipping in

interfaces such as apps or e-wallets that prompt consumers to add a tip.” He said even when labelled as optional, these prompts could create subtle psychological pressure. “Consumers may feel awkward or guilty declining, particularly in face-to-face service settings. “This can turn what should be a neutral transaction into a morally loaded decision, potentially causing discomfort, resentment or reduced satisfaction with the service experience.” Economists say tipping has not been widely normalised in Malaysia, in part because service charges are already included in many transactions, making extra

Malaysians, paying for a meal or ride now comes with an unexpected test – a digital pop-up asking if they want to add a tip. Experts said these prompts can make ordinary transactions feel like moral minefields, pressuring consumers to pay even when they do not want to. Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations CEO Savaranan Thambirajah said tipping has yet to become a widespread practice in Malaysia despite its growing visibility. “What we are seeing is more a perception of increased tipping, largely driven by digital payment

MONDAY | JAN 26, 2026

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4WD gathering to show solidarity with people of Gaza

Autistic youth finds solace in khat art PASIR MAS: Writing Arabic calligraphy on canvas has become a source of serenity for Ahmad Baihaqi Noor Azman. Through the art of khat calligraphy, the 20-year-old has found a way to calm his mind, build self-confidence and navigate life as a person with autism. For Ahmad Baihaqi, khat calligraphy is not merely a visual expression; it serves as a therapeutic medium that helps him stay focused and composed. Each curve and stroke reflects patience and precision, two qualities that have become his strengths despite the challenges he faces. The youngest of eight siblings, he said his interest in khat began at the age of nine when he studied the subject at Sekolah Rendah Islam Al Furqan in Pasir Mas. “It was then that I felt drawn to it. Over the years, it has become a part of me, and I achieved excellent results in the subject,” he told Bernama recently. His interest continued to grow when he attended Sekolah Menengah Ugama Al-Kauthar in Peringat, Kota Bharu, where he created calligraphy pieces as keepsakes for retiring teachers. Ahmad Baihaqi, who was diagnosed with mild autism three years ago, said what started as a hobby turned into a serious pursuit when he received his first paid commission from his uncle Mohd Fudzi Ibrahim, 70, in July 2023. The order, a calligraphic sketch of his uncle’s homestay name, came with a token payment of RM300. “That payment gave me the motivation to take khat art more seriously. I also began using social media platforms like Facebook and YouTube to learn new techniques and styles of calligraphy,” he said. Earlier this year, he sought guidance from khat teacher Hamdi Che Wahid to improve his skills in Diwani Jali and Thuluth calligraphy. “ Diwani Jali is known for its delicacy and beauty, while Thuluth is more elegant and regarded as the ‘mother of all khat scripts’. Ahmad Baihaqi said producing Thuluth calligraphy requires greater precision because its letters are more curved and angled. “ Diwani Jali is generally used for names, while Thuluth is for writing the names of Allah, Quranic verses and surah . Line arrangement and ornamentation are crucial to ensure balance and beauty in each piece. To maintain focus, he lights bukhoor (Arabic incence) and plays calming music, with completion times ranging from one day to a month, depending on complexity. His works have been presented to dignitaries, including the Kelantan royal family, Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri and local artist Nabila Razali. The public can view Ahmad Baihaqi’s collection or place orders via the “Rantau Jaya Craft” Facebook page and Instagram “Ahmdbaihaq1”.

and solidarity between the people of Terengganu and Gaza. Among the programme highlights are visual screenings depicting the situation on the ground in Gaza via LED screens, a Palestine forum featuring popular preacher Ustaz Azhar Idrus, as well as a Global Sumud Flotilla forum. “This gathering also marks the launch of the Drive For Gaza Global Mission, a continuous humanitarian initiative aimed at uniting NGOs and communities at both national and international levels, while ensuring the transparent delivery of aid through trusted channels,” Khairul said. On behalf of the organisers, he invited all Malaysians to attend and stand together in expressing solidarity and humanitarian responsibility towards the people of Gaza.

o 1,000 vehicles across country to converge in Kuala Terengganu on Jan 31 to express support and call for humanitarian action

Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

than a symbolic show of support. “This is not merely an event. It is a humanitarian call to action. “Gaza does not need our sympathy; it demands our responsibility as brothers and sisters,” he said. Khairul added that the programme had received the support of the Terengganu state government with various state agencies involved and official guests expected to attend. The gathering is scheduled to be officiated by Terengganu Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, symbolising the state’s support for humanitarian efforts

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prolonged oppression. Participants will assemble at the Jambatan Angkat compound at 8am before proceeding in a convoy around Kuala Terengganu. Emphasising universal humanitarian values rather than political interests, Drive For Gaza 1.0 is spearheaded by DVAC Malaysia as the main organiser, in collaboration with Muslim Care Malaysia and the Malaysian 4x4 community network. DVAC Malaysia chairman and organising representative of Drive For Gaza, Khairul Badri Abdul Basit said the gathering was more

PETALING JAYA: About 1,000 four wheel-drive vehicles from across the country are expected to converge in Kuala Terengganu on Jan 31 for a major humanitarian and solidarity gathering in support of Gaza, dubbed Drive For Gaza 1.0. Held under the theme “From Nusantara We Begin, In Gaza We Unite”, the event seeks to express Malaysians’ solidarity with the people of Gaza, who continue to endure violence, civilian casualties, famine and widespread

Sivakumar said the temple management is coordinating with police to oversee security arrangements, including crowd management and procession control. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

Thaipusam celebration at Batu Caves set to draw over 2.5m visitors KUALA LUMPUR: Over 2.5 million people are expected to visit Batu Caves for this year’s Thaipusam celebrations, surpassing last year’s figures due to the extended holiday period. Thaipusam falls on Feb 1, which coincides with Federal Territory Day. Sivakumar added that temple management is prioritising safety and cleanliness to ensure the event runs smoothly, in line with the 2026 Visit Malaysia campaign. support from the Kuala Lumpur contingent police headquarters. Meanwhile, the Batu Caves area will be managed by the Gombak district police, assisted by the Selangor contingent headquarters,” he said. either leave them in their car or bring a bag to carry them, to help cut down on rubbish.“

He also confirmed that upgrade work on the 20-year-old Lord Murugan statue is now complete, featuring an enhanced lighting system. The monument is set to be a highlight of the festival this year. “The statue was originally erected in 2006. This year’s refurbishment included the installation of supplementary lighting, reinforcing its role as a major draw for both devotees as well as local and international visitors,” Sivakumar said.

Sri Mahamariamman Devasthanam Temple trustee Datuk N. Sivakumar said the estimate accounts for devotees, domestic and international tourists and general visitors to the area throughout the festival. “Last year, around 2.5 million people attended over four to seven days. This year, with a longer holiday period, we expect even higher numbers,” he told Bernama.

Regarding cleanliness, Sivakumar highlighted the management’s ongoing efforts to promote greater public awareness, particularly to address littering and the persistent issue of discarded footwear. “Last year, nearly three tonnes of shoes ended up as waste. While we respect the tradition of removing shoes for prayers, we ask visitors to

Sivakumar said the temple management is coordinating closely with police to oversee all security arrangements, including crowd management and procession control. “Police will have complete operational command over security, deploying personnel from the Sentul and Dang Wangi districts with

MONDAY | JAN 26, 2026

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Myanmar leader dismisses critics

MANDALAY: State Administration Council Chairman Min Aung Hlaing yesterday dismissed foreign criticism of the country’s general election as a final round of voting took place, with the military-backed party having secured a majority of seats in previous rounds. The Union Solidarity and Development Party has won 193 of 209 seats in the lower house and 52 of 78 seats in the upper house after two rounds held on Dec 28 and Jan 11. Voter turnout was around 55% in each round, sharply lower than levels of about 70% in the 2020 and 2015 elections. Major opposition groups are not contesting the polls amid a civil war triggered by a 2021 coup that brought the military to power. “Whether the international community recognises this or not, we don’t understand their perspective. The people’s vote is the recognition we need,” Min Aung Hlaing told reporters yesterday, according to video broadcast on state TV. The military has insisted the election is free of coercion and has public backing. Voters cast their ballots yesterday in some 60 townships, including the o Military allies heading for massive victory Search resumes for dozens missing in Java landslide CISARUA: Rescuers resumed searching yesterday for around 80 people missing in a landslide, after the mission coordinator said operations had to be suspended on Saturday night due to harsh weather. Triggered by heavy rain, the landslide barrelled into villages in Java’s West Bandung region early Saturday, burying residential areas and forcing dozens of people to evacuate their homes. At least nine people were killed and around 80 are still missing, the local search and rescue agency said on Saturday, warning that the figures were provisional. The rain forced rescue efforts to pause at night, mission coordinator Ade Dian Permana said in a statement. But operations resumed yesterday morning as the rain subsided. Rescuers, helped by the military, police and volunteers, have been excavating manually. They are also using drones and dog units to scour the area for victims, according to the national rescue agency. West Bandung’s mayor warned on Saturday that the terrain was extremely difficult and the ground remained unstable. Floods and landslides are common across the vast archipelago during the rainy season from October to March. The disaster comes after tropical storms and intense monsoon rains late last year triggered flooding and landslides that killed around 1,200 people and displaced more than 240,000 in Sumatra. Environmentalists, experts and the government have pointed to the role forest loss played in the flooding and landslides that washed torrents of mud into villages. – AFP

large cities of Yangon and Mandalay. Dressed in civilian clothes, Min Aung Hlaing earlier met voters at a polling station in Mandalay in a seemingly relaxed atmosphere, pictures from domestic media showed. The 69-year-old general and acting president has indicated he is considering appointing someone to succeed him as armed forces chief and will likely move into a fully political role, a source has said. Asked about his possible role in the future government, Min Aung Hlaing said it was too early to say. “Once the Parliament is convened, they have their own procedures and methods for selection,” he said. While the government has portrayed the election as a success despite the low turnout, residents of Myanmar’s biggest cities have told Reuters of an atmosphere of fear and that many felt compelled to vote to avoid potential arrest or retribution. One Yangon resident said polling stations in neighbourhoods where army officers and their families reside appeared to have a high turnout yesterday, but few voters were seen in other areas. The military took control in a dawn coup on Feb 1, 2021, ousting an elected civilian government. The 80-year-old politician remains in detention and, like several other opposition groups, her National League for Democracy has been dissolved.

Yangon residents voting at a polling station yesterday. – AFPPIC

and packed with other former high ranking officers. Myanmar’s military, which has ruled the country for five of the past six decades, does not appear to have any real intention of withdrawing from its political leadership role. “Rather than resolving a crisis now in its fifth year, the vote is more likely to reinforce the military’s hold on power, with little prospect of

Fighting has continued through the election campaign and earlier voting in many parts of Myanmar, including airstrikes around civilian areas in the border states of Rakhine, Shan and Kayin. The USDP, which was formed in 2010 and governed the country for five years following the end of a previous military government, is chaired by a retired brigadier general

restoring domestic legitimacy or improving the country’s standing with Western partners,” said Kaho Yu, Principal Asia Analyst at risk intelligence company Verisk Maplecroft. Using an election protection law, the government has charged over 400 people for criticising and obstructing the election process, according to state media. – Reuters

Jailed Pakistani human rights lawyer defies all odds ISLAMABAD: No amount of pressure, cyberbullying or arrest warrants has so far succeeded in silencing one of Pakistan’s most prominent dissidents, the human rights lawyer Imaan Mazari. that,” she said. “We will not back down.” Her refusal to yield has led to comparisons with Pakistan’s late leading human rights lawyer Asma Jahangir, which Imaan said is “a huge honour and a privilege”. “Because she is representing everybody who is directly or indirectly on the receiving end of the state,” he said.

and “hate speech”. On Saturday, an Islamabad court handed her and her husband, fellow lawyer Hadi Ali Chattha, 10 year jail terms over“anti-state”social media posts. The vocal critic of Pakistan’s military “disseminated highly offensive” content, according to a court document. The sentencing came a day after the couple were arrested again as they were heading to a court hearing to face the charges. “Truth seems overwhelmingly difficult in this country,” Imaan said in court on Tuesday. “But we knew that when we got into this work, we’re ready to face

“Despite coming from a very well-off family, she has made her life considerably more difficult through the choices she has made about her activism,” he said. The University of Edinburgh graduate has also faced sexist remarks and doctored photos circulated on social media, in a country where women’s participation in the workplace remains low. Imaan was honoured in 2025 with the Young Inspiration Award by the World Expression Forum for her “extraordinary courage, integrity, and impact in the struggle for the rule of law and justice”. The same year, the UN special rapporteur for human rights defenders said the cases against her “appear to reflect an arbitrary use of the legal system to harass and intimidate”. Imaan was targeted in a January 2026 news conference by Pakistan’s military spokesman, who shared one of her X posts while building a case against “hidden elements committing subtle crimes”. “They operate under the guise of democracy and human rights to promote terrorism,” Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said. Despite such accusations, Imaan vowed to continue her work along with her husband. “We’re not the first people who will be unlawfully incarcerated in this country. We will keep fighting.” – AFP

She vows not to let a prison term dealt this weekend dent her resolve either. The 32-year-old shot to prominence tackling some of the country’s most sensitive topics while defending ethnic minorities, journalists facing defamation charges and clients branded blasphemers. As Imaan’s reputation grew, so too did her own rap sheet, with charges including “cyber terrorism”

Imaan is the daughter of Pakistan’s former minister for human rights, Shireen Mazari, while her late father was the South Asian country’s top paediatrician. Her mother said it had been difficult for the family to cope with the threats they were facing because of her daughter’s defence of the “dispossessed and marginalised”, a cause she said made her proud. “When so many people are suffering, we expect she will also be made to suffer for speaking out against excesses to human rights,” she said. As a pro bono lawyer, Imaan has worked on some of the most sensitive cases in Pakistan, including the enforced disappearances of ethnic Balochs, as well as defending the community’s top activist, Mahrang Baloch. She also represented those accused of blasphemy, an incendiary charge, as well as Afghans who face crackdowns by the authorities. Changes to the constitution and hasty legislation passed by parliament have pushed Pakistan towards tighter state control, with diminishing political and civil rights. Asad Ali Toor, a journalist Imaan represented in multiple cases, said she proved “a constant challenge for the state”.

Imaan and her husband Hadi at a hearing in Islamabad on Dec 5. – AFPPIC