27/01/2026

Bukit Tagar pig farming plan halted following strong protest

TUESDAY JAN 27, 2026

RM1

Selangor MB says no alternative locations

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

Report on — page 5

or proposals at this stage

SCAN ME No. 9046 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

Ringgit breaches

Click farms turn likes, views and online trust into paid illusions, fuelling scams, fraud and fabricated endorsement on social media. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

4.00 against US dollar for first time since 2018 Currency extends uptrend, reflecting improving sentiment towards country’s economic fundamentals and policy stability.

Report on h page 20

Foreign brands squeeze local F&B operators

Malaysian SMEs risk getting pushed out of market without stricter competition safeguards: Economists Report on h page 4

Paid services to artificially inflate likes, views and comments on social media increasingly being weaponised for scams, fraud and online manipulation, warn experts. Click farms thrive in legal grey zone Report on h page 3

TUESDAY | JAN 27, 2026

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King visits St Petersburg

KUALA LUMPUR: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim the King of Malaysia on Sunday visited the Smolny Complex, a historic landmark in St Petersburg, Russia. According to a post on the King’s official Facebook page, His Majesty was received upon arrival at the complex, which currently serves as the administrative centre of St Petersburg, by St Petersburg Governor Alexander Beglov. Also present was St Petersburg Committee for External Relations chairman Evgeny Dmitrievich Grigoriev. The post said Sultan Ibrahim also toured the Smolny Bunker, an underground shelter beneath the Smolny Complex, which was built in 1937, accompanied by Beglov. Following the tour, His Majesty attended a banquet hosted by Beglov. Malaysian Ambassador to the Russian Federation Datuk Cheong Loon Lai was also in attendance. The King was also presented with a video during the banquet, showcasing St Petersburg. Beglov later delivered a brief presentation on the city, highlighting St Petersburg as not only a popular international tourist destination, but also a city distinguished by nearly 800 bridges, 94 rivers and about 200 museums. His Majesty arrived in St Petersburg for a special visit yesterday, at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin. – Bernama

Loke (centre) inspects confiscated items while on an official visit to KLIA for the launch of the green lane system. – KIRTINEE RAMESH/THESUN

KLIA commences green lane system to ease congestion

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Loke said once finalised, the system would be rolled out at KLIA Terminal 2 and other international airports, including those at Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Penang and Johor Bahru. He added that the initiative does not require extra manpower, with staff redeployed following the streamlining of other inspection processes. LED displays and clearer signage would also be installed in phases to guide passengers. “The reintroduction of the green lane is aimed at easing congestion, improving efficiency and enhancing passenger experience, especially ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026.”

He emphasised that national security is not compromised, adding that all green lane travellers are screened through intelligence-led risk assessments and monitored using passenger manifests, with high-risk individuals immediately redirected for thorough inspection. “Each incoming flight has a passenger manifest and risk profiling. “Passengers identified as high risk would be directed to the red lane for inspection, even if they initially head towards the green lane.” The one-month trial, running until Feb 26, would be closely monitored to refine operational procedures.

Department and the Border Control and Protection Agency, replaces the previous single-lane system that often caused long queues after baggage claims. “With the improvement, three exit lanes are now in place – two green lanes and one red lane,” Loke told reporters after inspecting the system yesterday. He explained that the green lane is for passengers carrying nothing to declare and no restricted or prohibited items, allowing them to proceed directly to the arrival hall without X-ray inspection. The red lane is for those needing to declare items, pay duties or undergo further checks.

SEPANG: KL International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 has introduced a green lane system for international arrivals to slash waiting times, reduce congestion and streamline customs clearance. The move comes as passenger traffic at the terminal rises to between 80,000 to 90,000 individuals daily, about 60% of whom are international travellers. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the initiative, developed over months with Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB), the Customs

‘Audits constructive tool for national progress’ o Anwar encourages

PM gives Man Utd victory nod in speech PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had football fans in stitches yesterday, poking fun at “personal tension at home” after Manchester United’s 3-2 victory over Arsenal left his Arsenal-supporting grandchildren less than impressed. Speaking at the launch of the National Audit Department’s 120th anniversary celebration, Anwar said officiating at the event brought him joy, but the previous night’s football result gave him even more reason to smile. “ Alhamdulillah , we have successfully officiated this event, and I am also delighted because yesterday, Arsenal scored two, but Manchester United scored three,” he quipped, drawing laughter from the audience. A die-hard Red Devils supporter, the prime minister returned to the topic at the close of his speech, slipping in another playful nod to the result. “Once again, thank you, and thank you also for the good news of Manchester United’s victory yesterday.” The result came at the Emirates Stadium, where Manchester United stunned league leaders Arsenal with a dramatic 3-2 win, narrowing the gap in the English Premier League title race. Arsenal had opened the scoring following an own goal by Lisandro Martinez, only for United winger Bryan Mbeumo to level the match. United then took the lead in the second half with a stunning strike from Patrick Dorgu, silencing the home crowd. Despite Arsenal’s late resurgence, substitute Matheus Cunha struck a decisive goal in the dying minutes to seal the win for United. – By Harith Kamal

He said safeguarding the nation also requires audit systems that are advanced and comprehensive. He called for faster and more effective audits to curb leakages, mismanagement and abuse of power. “A strong and professional audit system is central to good governance and public accountability. “If auditing is carried out effectively and promptly, it becomes difficult for leakages to occur. But weaknesses or delays would allow misuse of funds and abuse of power to continue.” Anwar added that national progress should not just be measured solely by economic growth, but also by the strength of management and governance, with auditing serving as a key benchmark. Acknowledging that strict auditing would not always be popular, he said resistance is inevitable when checks and controls are tightened. “If there are no checks, then it is not auditing. We must take firmer and braver steps to ensure that the country stays on the right path. “This requires commitment and a collective spirit from all parties. “If we want to achieve a level of progress that we could be proud of, we have no choice but to mobilise all our strengths and drive change in the best possible way.”

“This requires the auditor-general and the entire department to engage with, understand and show empathy towards the public. I consider this crucial.” Also present were Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul and Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. Anwar emphasised that auditing must be communicated as an empowering process. “I do not want the perception that auditing systems are burdensome. “Auditing must be explained as a way to improve systems, protect funds and benefit the public.” He added that the true measure of a robust audit system lies in how effectively it reaches out to and educates citizens. He also warned that gaps between policy intentions and public understanding could undermine reform efforts. “Good intentions and good programmes that are poorly understood due to insufficient engagement could lead to tension and public anxiety. “That is why I urge these efforts to continue. I know steps have been taken and I am proud of the performance of the National Audit Department.” He further encouraged innovation and outreach, particularly at the grassroots level, to ensure auditing is no longer perceived as intimidating.

outreach to ensure process no longer seen as intimidating

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday said audits must not be seen as a burden on the public but as a constructive tool for national progress. He urged auditors to engage more closely with citizens and help them understand the purpose of scrutiny. Speaking at the launch of the National Audit Department’s 120th anniversary celebrations, Anwar said public engagement is crucial to ensuring audits are viewed as a means of strengthening governance rather than merely an enforcement exercise. “Sometimes, the systems we introduce are perceived as overly burdensome or cumbersome. Every time we introduce reforms aimed at improvement, they are often opposed by those accustomed to inefficiency or irregularities. “So, how do we introduce new systems without making individuals feel oppressed or overly constrained?

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Likes, views do not signal credibility: Users PETALING JAYA: High likes, views and comments on social media no longer guarantee credibility, with online users increasingly viewing them as signs that content may have been artificially boosted. IT manager Md Saiful Azri, 42, from Bangi, Selangor, said today’s large engagement numbers often reflect marketing budgets rather than genuine popularity. “These days, a high like count usually just tells me someone has a big marketing budget or knows how to game the algorithm. Back in the day, a viral video felt like a genuine moment. “Now it feels manufactured. I look more at who is saying it and whether the comments actually have substance.” Saiful added that artificially boosted posts are often easy to spot. “When the math doesn’t add up – like 50,000 likes but only three people talking – it feels dead. If the profiles are blank or the usernames look weird, it’s a giveaway. Real people are messy. A wall of ‘Great post!’ and heart emojis is almost certainly bot-driven.” Human resources consultant Afiq Afendi, 32, from TTDI, Kuala Lumpur, said engagement should never be mistaken for credibility. “Credibility should come from accurate and unbiased information. Likes and views only show preference, not truth,” he said, noting that fabricated engagement often follows identifiable patterns. “You see templates being repeated in a very short time. It usually stays on the surface of a topic, not in depth.” Public relations executive Deena Azuar, 27, said she now treats engagement as a reference point rather than proof. “I used to assume high engagement meant something was good or trustworthy. But now, with how easy it is to buy engagement, I don’t rely on it. “Sometimes there are thousands of likes but the comments feel copy pasted. When that happens, I trust the brand or person less.” Talent acquisition executive Low Yee Dan, 26, from Setia Alam, Selangor, said popularity alone has never equated credibility for him. “A popularised view, even if it’s not artificially boosted, still doesn’t equal credibility. “I’ve seen posts where the gap between likes and comments feels suspicious,” he said, adding that paid engagement is “essentially no different from paid marketing”. For government pensioner Nik Ruzman, 65, from Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, recent global events have changed how he reads online reactions. “I never thought about this before but not anymore since the Gaza-Israel conflict,” he said, referring to widely reported cases of coordinated and artificial engagement linked to Israel related posts during the war. He said comment patterns differ sharply between platforms and channels. “I don’t decide based on positive comments. I research the product myself, but I do pay attention to negative comments.”– By Faiz Ruzman

‘Click farming thriving in M’sia’s legal grey area’

o Experts say regulatory ambiguities around engagement-boosting services have enabled scams, online manipulation and digital fraud

management said spending on digital engagement is commonly built into campaign planning and treated as a legitimate visibility tool. “In most campaigns, engagement is discussed early on, alongside content and media planning. It’s not something that comes later. It’s already part of the strategy. “(High) traction has become a form of credibility. The huge numbers of likes, views or comments are often used to show that a campaign is performing well.” He said budgets for engagement related spending vary by campaign, with some allocating several thousand ringgit and others reaching up to RM15,000. “Engagement usually comes through third-party vendors offering likes, views or comments as part of a broader campaign package, sometimes layered on top of platform ads. “It’s usually tied to visibility goals such as boosting reach, making posts look active early on or helping content gain momentum. Clients don’t usually ask which vendor is used or how engagement is generated. What they want to see is movement – likes, views, comments – that shows traction.” He added that there is little industry concern over enforcement, as click-farm-style engagement is widely viewed as operating within platform rules or regulatory grey areas.

specialist Prof Dr Ainuddin Wahid Abdul Wahab said the normalisation of click farm services had enabled large-scale fraud and expanded cybercrime infrastructure globally. “Bot fraud now accounts for about 65% of connected TV (CTV) fraud globally, potentially wasting around US$700,000 (RM2.8 million) for every one billion impressions,” he said, citing DoubleVerify’s 2025 Global Insights report. From a cybersecurity standpoint, he said click farms rely heavily on automation, bot orchestration and compromised or fabricated accounts, significantly increasing exposure to phishing and identity theft. “Click farms do not create content or narratives. They amplify whoever pays. Scammers use them to ‘warm up’ fraudulent pages with fake testimonials so that victims see what looks like social proof. “Once fake engagement becomes normalised, it becomes a tool for ‘astroturfing’ (the deceptive practice of presenting an orchestrated marketing or public relations campaign) which manufactures popularity to influence consumer behaviour and public opinion.” Despite the risks, industry practitioners say artificially boosted engagement has become a routine part of campaign strategy. An industry source familiar with multinational campaign

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

register them under other people’s names or use fake identities. “To run a click farm, you need a phone farm connected to software on a computer. One computer can control hundreds or even thousands of phones. Each phone can have multiple social media accounts.” He said such systems allow operators to generate vast volumes of engagement with minimal effort. “With one click, someone can generate 1,000 likes on a post. They can also instruct bots to leave comments using AI-generated text. It looks real and triggers the platform’s algorithm.” Sirajuddin warned that artificial engagement creates a false impression of popularity or credibility, shaping how users perceive online content. “When people bypass official advertising platforms and instead pay click-farm services, it becomes a risk not just to users, but to the platforms themselves. More importantly, this infrastructure is often reused for scams.” Universiti Malaya cybersecurity

PETALING JAYA: The booming trade in paid “click farming” services to artificially inflate likes, views and comments on social media is operating in a legal grey zone in Malaysia, with experts highlighting that the same engagement-boosting infrastructure is increasingly being repurposed for scams, fraud and online manipulation. Malaysia Cyber Consumer Association president Sirajuddin Jalil said click-farming operations rely on large-scale automation using so called “phone farms”, enabling a single operator to control hundreds or even thousands of mobile devices at the same time. “At the moment, regulations do not directly address click farming. There is no law that limits how many mobile phones a person can own. However, there are laws that limit SIM card ownership. “For example, if someone has five prepaid SIM cards, that is already illegal because they would have to Communications Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching said the initiative is currently in the regulatory sandbox phase, allowing the government to test and refine the most effective implementation methods before full enforcement. She said the measure is being carried out in line with the Online Safety Act (Onsa), with discussions already underway with social media platform providers to determine the most suitable approach. “Under Onsa, we have begun discussions with platform providers. We are now in the regulatory sandbox stage to identify the best, most effective and safest way to conduct age verification. We are still in the discussion and planning phase with the platform providers. “This is our target for this year. As was announced by Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, we expect it to be implemented in the second half of the year,“ she said when met after the handing over ceremony of the Early Schooling Assistance at Sekolah Kebangsaan Putra Utama here yesterday. The government is reportedly targeting all social media platforms to implement digital user identity

Age limit for social media use effective by July: Deputy minister KULAI: The implementation of a minimum age limit of 16 for social media use, aimed at protecting children and adolescents from exploitation and exposure to inappropriate online content, is expected to be enforced as early as July.

SCREEN SAFETY ... Young users on mobile devices. Teo said the age verification measures for social media use are currently being tested to protect minors from online harm and inappropriate content. – BERNAMAPIC

for the Early Schooling Assistance this year for some 5.2 million students from Year 1 to Form 6 nationwide. Teo, who is Kulai MP, said 586,153 students received assistance, involving a total allocation of RM87.9 million in Johor. – Bernama

receive confirmation from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) on whether any complaints had been lodged regarding the matter. Meanwhile, Teo said the Education Ministry has allocated RM800 million

verification (eKYC) by the end of the second quarter (this year) to enforce the minimum age requirement for account registration. Asked about cyberbullying involving national badminton player Toh Ee Wei, Teo said she had yet to

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F&B operators facing pressure from foreign brands

Consumers weigh in PETALING JAYA: As the government reviews guidelines on foreign participation in the F&B sector, Malaysians are divided, reflecting the delicate balance between protecting local businesses and ensuring consumer choice. Some consumers expressed frustration with both foreign and local operators. “On one hand, I really dislike cheap, foreign ice cream brands that serve sugar-laden treats, which feel like a health hazard every time people consume them. “On the other hand, I also get annoyed at local brands or SME that price their menus based on ‘vibes’ rather than value, making some products up to three times more expensive. It feels like neither side is playing fair,” said university student Muhammad Johan Arifin. Others highlighted the importance of healthy competition. Damien (not his real name) said if foreign brands could offer low prices, local brands should be able to do the same. For him, the key lies in improving business efficiency rather than relying solely on regulatory protection. Noorain Mohd Nor shared a similar view, emphasising that both competition and regulation have roles to play. “This is a free market. If your food and drinks aren’t competitive, then step aside. “Consumers shouldn’t have to pay more just because some businesses can’t perform. “At the same time, government rules should help level the playing field where structural disadvantages exist, so local shops could survive and thrive alongside larger competitors.” She also pointed out why foreign brands often gain an advantage. “They win because of price, which is often cheaper than local alternatives, and service, which is fast and convenient,” she said, adding that the government should monitor not only foreign operators but also how local businesses price their offerings. “If the government is serious about fair competition, it should ensure local businesses aren’t overcharging or limiting options for consumers.” Offering a more optimistic perspective, Farah (not her real name), a small-business owner, said competition from foreign brands has encouraged her to innovate. “I’ve started offering delivery and digital ordering for the first time, and customers seem to appreciate the convenience. “If the guidelines could help us compete fairly, it could be a real boost for local businesses.” Public reactions reveal a nuanced reality: While many Malaysians support efforts to safeguard local SME, they also value affordability, quality and convenience. – By Harith Kamal

o Main risk comes from imbalance in market power, says academic

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Local food and beverage (F&B) operators are facing growing pressure from foreign brands, which experts warn could push Malaysian small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) out of the market if stricter competition safeguards are not enforced. From predatory pricing to loopholes in existing regulations, the rapid expansion of international F&B chains is raising alarm bells across the industry. Economists and SME leaders say the challenge is not the presence of foreign brands but how their dominance could undermine domestic entrepreneurship and consumer choice in the long term. Universiti Teknologi Mara senior lecturer in economics Dr Mohamad Idham Md Razak said foreign operators bring competition, investment and consumer choice, which are generally positive for efficiency and innovation. “But if growth becomes concentrated among foreign players while local SME struggle to survive, this could weaken domestic value creation, reduce local entrepreneurship and make the ecosystem less resilient.” He emphasised that the main risk is not the presence of foreign players but an imbalance in market power. On whether stricter guidelines are warranted, he said well-calibrated rules on pricing behaviour, franchising practices and market entry could correct distortions without signalling protectionism. “Stricter guidelines are justified if they are designed to ensure fair competition rather than exclude foreign players.” He added that predatory pricing by large operators could pose long-term risks. “In the short term, consumers may benefit from lower prices, but over time such practices could push local competitors out of the market, reduce choice and eventually allow dominant players to raise prices. “This undermines a healthy trade ecosystem and weakens domestic industry.”

Mohamad Idham said well-calibrated rules on pricing behaviour, franchising practices and market entry could correct distortions without signalling protectionism. – BERNAMAPIC

while maintaining a competitive market. SME Association of Malaysia president Dr Chin Chee Seong said the review is timely. “It isn’t just about identifying loopholes; it’s about revisiting the definitions and terms used in the 2020 guidelines. “Right now (in the review), the wording is problematic. It uses phrases such as ‘you are expected’ or ‘you are required,’ but there is no ‘must.’ “In other words, foreign companies aren’t strictly obliged to follow the requirements.” He explained that some foreign outlets could bypass rules designed to protect SME. “One of the rules says if an F&B outlet exceeds 5,000 sq ft, an impact study is required to show it won’t negatively affect local SME. “Many outlets open small stores below the threshold, so they bypass the impact study. Once operational, some engage in predatory pricing, (which is) lowering prices to undercut local businesses.” He added that technology gives foreign operators an advantage. “Many leverage IT and digital platforms; online ordering, delivery apps and so on. “Local SME often lack the resources to build such platforms, which puts them at a disadvantage.”

To maintain fair competition while supporting SME viability, Malaysia must strengthen enforcement of competition laws while helping SME improve competitiveness. “Policies that support SME scaling, integration into supply chains and participation in e-commerce on fair terms would allow local firms to compete on quality and innovation rather than price alone.” He also suggested that Malaysia could learn from countries such as South Korea, Japan and countries in the European Union, which combine strong competition law enforcement with targeted SME support. Last week, the government announced that it is reviewing its guidelines on foreign F&B brands, following concerns raised by an MP that the expansion of foreign chains could threaten the survival of local SME. Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Fuziah Salleh said the review would focus on the 2020 Guidelines on Foreign Participation in the Distributive Trade Services, which the ministry has identified as outdated and containing loopholes. Among the issues under review is the minimum outlet size required for specialised F&B outlets before approval is granted, part of the ministry’s effort to protect domestic SME

Local SME vulnerable to market concentration, displacement: Fomca PETALING JAYA: The surge of foreign F&B brands is raising concerns over market concentration and the gradual displacement of local operators, the Federation of Malaysian Consumer Associations (Fomca) has warned. Its CEO Saravanan Thambirajah said micro and small local F&B businesses are particularly vulnerable, operating on thin margins with limited access to capital. cultural identity and local supply chains.” While consumers may initially enjoy low prices, heavy discounts and frequent promotions, Saravanan cautioned that such short-term benefits could be misleading. “When prices are kept artificially low through subsidies or cross-financing, they do not reflect real market costs. different market environment and do not adequately address platform-based pricing strategies, algorithm-driven promotions or sustained below-cost selling. “What is missing is stronger regulatory coverage for e-commerce, clearer obligations on platforms, and more effective monitoring and penalties.” must coordinate to avoid regulatory gaps. “Rules without meaningful penalties will not change market behaviour. Enforcement must be robust and deterrent enough to ensure compliance.” Saravanan said a balanced approach benefits both consumers and local businesses.

“Consumers benefit most when competition is fair and sustainable. Protecting local SME helps maintain diverse offerings, preserves local jobs and strengthens the domestic economy, all of which ultimately support consumer welfare.” He emphasised that the aim is not to limit choice, but to ensure it remains meaningful. “Fair regulation of foreign brands ensures better transparency, clearer accountability and stronger consumer protection, particularly in online transactions. “When competition is balanced, consumers enjoy variety, innovation and reasonable prices without sacrificing long-term choice or market stability.” – By Harith Kamal

Fomca has proposed measures for upcoming legislative amendments or new laws to fill the gaps. “We want legislation focused on fairness and transparency, not protectionism. “This includes clear rules against sustained predatory pricing, stronger accountability for e commerce platforms and mandatory local representation for foreign brands so consumers and regulators have a responsible party to engage with.” He also urged greater transparency from foreign brands on pricing, promotions and seller identity, adding that enforcement agencies

“If local competitors are forced out, consumers may eventually face fewer choices, reduced innovation and higher prices once competition diminishes.” He also highlighted challenges in online transactions with foreign sellers. “Consumers face unclear promotional terms, misleading ‘limited-time’ offers and a lack of transparency over who is responsible when disputes arise, particularly on digital platforms.” Saravanan said the 2020 guidelines on foreign participation in distributive trade services are no longer adequate to protect SME. “The guidelines were developed in a very

“Many foreign brands, especially those backed by large corporations or venture capital, could enter the market aggressively, securing prime locations, expanding outlets rapidly and absorbing losses over extended periods. “These structural advantages mean local SME cannot compete on equal terms, not due to weaker products or services, but because of higher rental costs, smaller marketing budgets and lack of scale. “Over time, this leads to market concentration and the gradual displacement of local brands, which are vital for employment,

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Pig farming project on hold o State to take more cautious, structured approach in handling issue, including social impact assessments: MB

Dept aims to shorten disaster warning times PETALING JAYA: The Meteorological Department is aiming to reduce the time it takes to issue earthquake information and tsunami warnings from eight minutes to six minutes after detection, starting this year. Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said weather forecast accuracy would also improve from 82% to 85%, reflecting the ministry’s commitment to strengthening disaster preparedness. “As part of preparedness and response efforts, the department operates the Early Warning System (EWS) 24 hours a day, ensuring timely alerts and ongoing coordination with disaster management agencies at national and state levels.” He said these initiatives show that the department is not only reinforcing its detection and forecasting networks for weather-related disasters, earthquakes and tsunamis, but also enhancing the EWS to deliver faster, more accurate and comprehensive alerts to the public. Arthur Kurup was speaking during the Dewan Rakyat question-and-answer session yesterday, responding to Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias (BN-Jelebu) on the EWS’s effectiveness in providing rapid disaster alerts, especially in rural areas. The government has allocated RM242 million for projects to upgrade forecasting systems and construct new weather radar facilities, as well as RM18 million for the National Tsunami EWS under the 13th Malaysian Plan. The department is also strengthening its weather capabilities through the Radar Integrated Nowcasting System, which combines radar networks and numerical forecast models to produce near real-time projections of rainfall movement and intensity. “The Numerical Weather Prediction system is being upgraded with the latest high-performance computing technology.” He added that these upgrades would enable forecasts of up to 14 days ahead with higher resolution—300m compared with the current one kilometre—providing more precise guidance for planning and disaster response. – By Faiz Ruzman Court grants stay on damages to family of abducted pastor KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court here yesterday granted the government’s application for a stay of execution on the damages award exceeding RM37 million to the family of pastor Raymond Koh. Judge Mahazan Mat Taib held that special circumstances warranted the stay, pending the disposal of the government’s appeal at the appellate court. “On the balance of justice, I am satisfied that no material prejudice has been demonstrated on the part of the plaintiffs if a stay is granted.” She said the disbursement of such funds, even if approved, would not align with the financial rules and procedures governing public funds. She explained that government disbursements involve multiple layers of accounting and audit oversight, which cannot be processed in the same manner as private transactions. As such, the court recognised, as a matter of practicality, that payments of this nature are extraordinary and administratively complex. She added that these considerations justified maintaining the status quo in assessing the balance of justice pending the outcome of the appeal. On Nov 5 last year, High Court judge Datuk Su Tiang Joo ruled in favour of Koh and his wife Susanna Liew Sow Yoke, holding police and the government liable for Koh’s disappearance and ordering the payment of more than RM37 million in damages. Liew had filed the suit against police and the government concerning the disappearance of her husband and the authorities’ handling of the probe. – Bernama

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: The Selangor government has put the controversial Bukit Tagar pig farming project on hold following strong public opposition and criticism from the Sultan of Selangor. Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the decision was made after the issue was debated at the state executive council, at which widespread concerns over the project were raised. “No alternative sites or proposals will be disclosed yet as no final decision has been made,” he said. “Before Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) suggested cancelling the project, the state executive council had instructed that other locations be explored due to the strong objections in Bukit Tagar. “Anwar’s suggestion reinforced this course of action, which I fully welcomed.” Amirudin was speaking to reporters after delivering the Selangor New Year’s address at Dewan Raja Muda Musa, Selangor Youth and Cultural Complex in Section 7 yesterday. He said the state government would take a more cautious and structured approach in handling the issue, including engagement with stakeholders and social impact assessments. “This issue has grown beyond its original scope, which is why we have decided to postpone and cancel it for now while providing clearer explanations to all parties.”

the requirements. Claims of a ‘mega’ project are exaggerated,” he said, adding that the main objective was to reorganise scattered pig farms to better manage hygiene and environmental issues. On Jan 10, the Sultan of Selangor expressed disappointment over plans to allow temporary pig farming in Tanjong Sepat, Kuala Langat, before relocating it to Bukit Tagar by 2030. His statement, issued via the Selangor Royal Office, cited concerns over large-scale operations oriented towards export markets, which the palace did not support. On Saturday, Anwar recommended that the project be cancelled or moved to a more suitable site, amid growing unease from local communities.

He also said discussions with operators would continue, adding that any solution would be “fair, reasonable and preserve social harmony”. The Bukit Tagar proposal, which involved plans for pig farming development in Hulu Selangor, faced objections from residents after details emerged earlier this month. He dismissed sarcastic claims that the Bukit Tagar project would resemble a “pig hotel”, stressing that the state government’s priority is to safeguard the interests of all parties fairly. Amirudin said the government had no intention of developing a large-scale pig farming project as portrayed by some. “It is not mega, not large scale. It may cover only about between 20% and 30% of

Ex-army chief files police reports against activist In Kuala Terengganu yesterday, Salwani was charged with receiving RM5,000 in unlawful proceeds last year. – BERNAMAPIC

Ű BY THE SUN TEAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

In Kuala Terengganu yesterday, his wife Salwani Anuar@Kamaruddin, 27, was charged with receiving RM5,000 in unlawful proceeds last year. She pleaded not guilty, with her charge carrying the same penalties. The offence allegedly occurred at a Kerteh bank branch on Jan 16, 2025. DPP Maziah Mohaide said the prosecution would seek to transfer Salwani’s case to the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court for a joint trial with her husband’s cases. She offered the same bail terms previously granted, namely RM30,000 in two sureties, reporting monthly to MACC and surrendering her passport. “As the cases will be tried together, there is no objection to applying for the same bail.”

Muhammad Hafizuddeain recorded his statement at the Dang Wangi district police headquarters yesterday. Aizul said his client is considering civil action against Chegubard, Bank Negara Malaysia and the two banks, pending police investigations. Last week, the 58-year-old was charged at the Sessions Court with two counts of receiving RM145,000 allegedly from unlawful activities. Pleading not guilty, Hafizuddeain is the first former army chief charged in a money laundering case linked to army procurement tenders. He faces up to 15 years’ jail and fines under Section 4(1)(b) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001.

PETALING JAYA: Former army chief Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan has filed two police reports against Pembela Tanah Air activist Badrul Hisham Shaharin, or Chegubard, alleging the unlawful disclosure of his banking details and baseless accusations. Muhammad Hafizuddeain’s lawyer Aizul Rohan Anuar said Chegubard allegedly posted his client’s banking records on Facebook on Dec 19, revealing transactions that Muhammad Hafizuddeain denies. He said the disclosure may have involved personnel from Bank Negara Malaysia and two other banks, raising concerns over potential breaches of confidentiality.

TUESDAY | JAN 27, 2026

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KUALA LUMPUR: For most married couples, especially newlyweds, having a child is a shared dream, whether it is as soon as possible or at a time that best suits their lifestyle. As a result, many take deliberate steps to plan for pregnancy. However, for some couples, repeated attempts to conceive end in disappointment, even when the husband and wife are physically healthy and have good fertility levels. According to experts, effective pregnancy planning entails thorough physical and internal readiness. Among the most crucial yet frequently underestimated aspects are diet and daily nutrient intake. In modern life, healthy eating habits are often neglected. Fast food, high-sugar beverages and unbalanced diets become convenient choices, with most not realising that such habits may pose long-term risks to fertility. 0 Early steps Fertility specialist Dr Raihana Ismail said healthy nutrition is vital in improving female fertility as the hormonal system requires sufficient nutrients to function optimally. She said consuming nutritious food not only supports the production of reproductive hormones, but also helps reduce stress and inflammation in the body, factors which, if prolonged, could negatively affect the chances of conception. “When husband and wife adopt a balanced diet that includes adequate protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, it indirectly helps stabilise body weight, regulate the menstrual cycle and improve the quality of eggs or sperm produced. “Healthy eating helps lower stress levels, which could otherwise disrupt hormonal balance and make it difficult for a woman to conceive. “It also supports better daily energy levels and helps maintain long-term uterine health.” She added that an unbalanced daily diet could have a direct impact on a woman’s menstrual cycle. “A deficiency in key nutrients, such as iron, folic acid, zinc and healthy fats, could lead to irregular menstruation, ovulation problems and chronic fatigue, all of which could make conception more difficult. “Those who consume excessive sugar and rely heavily on processed

Nutrition vital to improve female fertility: Specialist

o ‘Proper food supports production of reproductive hormones, reduces stress and inflammation in body’

she has been married for a long time. “Pregnancy is possible as long as her ovulation is normal, hormones are balanced and the reproductive system is functioning well. “However, factors such as age, hormonal issues, lifestyle, stress or other health conditions may slightly reduce the chances. So, do not lose hope as there are many ways to help increase the likelihood of conceiving.” According to her, women who are unable to conceive naturally still have opportunities to become pregnant through modern medical treatments, such as ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination and in vitro fertilisation. She said the choice of treatment depends on the underlying cause of infertility, the woman’s age, overall health status and the fertility level of both partners. With proper guidance and monitoring by fertility specialists, these modern treatments not only improve the chances of pregnancy, but could also be carried out safely and effectively. Raihana advised women to avoid prolonged stress as it could disrupt hormonal balance, affecting ovulation and the menstrual cycle. In some cases, stress could also lead to extreme fatigue, sleep disturbances and emotional instability, making it more difficult for pregnancy to occur. “For women who are trying to conceive, the most important advice from specialists is not to put too much pressure on themselves. “The desire to become pregnant is natural, but excessive stress and anxiety could have negative effects not only on one’s emotional wellbeing, but also on physical health and fertility. “Stress management should be viewed as an integral part of efforts to conceive.”

trying to conceive are encouraged to consume more green vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, fish, eggs and lean meats. High-caffeine and carbonated drinks should be avoided as they may reduce the chances of pregnancy. “Taking supplements or foods containing inositol and DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid) could support hormonal balance, regulate the menstrual cycle and improve the quality of sperm and ova. “Foods containing fibrulose (dietary fibre) as well as live cultures that promote gut health could help improve nutrient absorption and support overall women’s health.” Raihana cautioned women against following extreme diets as these could disrupt fertility. She said unhealthy eating patterns may lead to irregular menstrual cycles and increase the risk of developing polycystic ovary syndrome. She explained that for men, an unhealthy diet tends to reduce the quality and quantity of sperm, which affects fertility and lowers the couple’s chances of conceiving. “Conversely, a balanced diet helps improve sperm health and motility, supporting the couple’s journey towards pregnancy.” 0 Treatment options Raihana advised women to consult a fertility specialist if they experience difficulty conceiving despite having a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. She said fertility specialists would assess various factors, including hormonal balance, the condition of the fallopian tubes and egg quality before recommending appropriate treatment or guidance to improve the chances of pregnancy. “I would like to emphasise that any woman who has a uterus still has a chance of becoming pregnant, even if

foods are also at higher risk of hormonal disturbances due to insulin resistance and inflammation in the body.” She said adequate water intake is also important, stressing that regular mealtimes, a healthy lifestyle and sufficient quality sleep are crucial in maintaining hormonal balance. Raihana, who is also founder and CEO of Efferty International Sdn Bhd, a company that produces supplements specially formulated to assist individuals facing difficulty conceiving, said healthy nutrition and lifestyle habits should be cultivated from an early stage. 0 Nutrients According to Raihana, women who

are planning to conceive need to ensure their bodies receive adequate nutrients to support fertility. Among the key nutrients are protein, iron, folic acid, calcium, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, Bernama reported. “Protein helps in the formation of hormones and reproductive cells (such as ova and sperm). Iron supports the transport of oxygen in the blood while folic acid is essential for egg quality. “Omega-3 helps maintain hormonal balance while foods that are rich in antioxidants protect cells from damage. Calcium and vitamin D are important for hormonal health and a healthy uterus.” She added that women who are

Raihana advised women to consult a fertility specialist if they experience difficulty conceiving despite maintaining a balanced diet. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

TUESDAY | JAN 27, 2026 7 Java landslide toll rises to 17 JAKARTA: The death toll from a landslide that hit West Java province at the weekend rose to 17 yesterday, the country’s disaster mitigation agency said, with dozens still missing. The landslide that hit a residential area in the Bandung Barat region early on Saturday was triggered by heavy rains starting the day before, which the weather agency warned could continue in the province and several other regions for another week. The affected Pasir Langu village is in a hilly area of the province about 100km southeast of Jakarta. More than 30 houses were buried by the landslide, the agency said. At least 17 people have died, said agency spokesperson Abdul Muhari yesterday, with 73 still missing. Indonesia’s navy chief Muhammad Ali said 23 navy officers were among those trapped. The officers were involved in border patrol training at the time of the landslide, he said, adding that heavy equipment was not able to reach the disaster zone due to bad weather. The agency said on Sunday that a smaller landslide together with bad weather had also hindered the search, which requires drones and heavy equipment. Flash floods hit several parts of Indonesia last week, including West Java and Jakarta, forcing residents to flee their homes and evacuate to higher ground. – Reuters COLOMBO: Sri Lanka has appealed to residents to donate land to support the construction of new homes for families displaced by Cyclone Ditwah , as the government steps up nationwide reconstruction efforts. The President’s Media Division (PMD) said many families lost their homes and property in the disaster, and that a housing construction project is underway for those whose houses were destroyed. ”The government is calling on philanthropic individuals and landowners to contribute land needed for permanent housing.” The PMD said details are available through the government website and hotline, and prospective donors can submit information directly to the authorities. The government pledged that no affected citizen would be left behind and said the rebuilding drive would be carried out as a transparent national effort. – Bernama SEOUL MOURNS DEATH OF FORMER PREMIER HANOI: South Korean former prime minister Lee Hae-chan, a veteran politician and influential fixture on the country’s road to democracy, died during an official visit to Ho Chi Minh City. Lee, 73 died on Sunday, after emergency medical aid for a heart attack, a South Korean presidential advisory panel said. “The country has lost a great mentor in the history of our democracy,” President Lee Jae Myung said.“He dedicated his life to protecting and growing democratic values through our turbulent modern history.” Lee spearheaded government reform as prime minister from 2004 to 2006. The seven-term former member of parliament had started out as a student activist who was jailed in the 1970s for leading a democracy movement. He was considered a shrewd strategist who helped four liberal presidents, including the incumbent, to win the office. – Reuters SRI LANKA SEEKS LAND FOR CYCLONE VICTIMS

Triple-decker ferry sinks in southern Philippines

o 18 dead, 24 missing

MANILA: A ferry with more than 350 people onboard sank early yesterday in choppy seas off the southern Philippines, killing at least 18 and leaving 24 still missing. The MV Trisha Kerstin 3 issued a distress signal around 1.50am (1.50am in Malaysia), a bit over four hours after it departed the Port of Zamboanga City on the southwestern tip of Mindanao, the coast guard said in a statement. Video released by the governor of Basilan province showed barefoot survivors being wrapped in blankets and placed on gurneys, while victims of the sinking were carried past in body bags. The triple-decker vessel went down on nearly the same route where 31 people died in 2023 after a fire aboard the Lady Mary Joy 3 ferry. Both ships were owned by Aleson Shipping Lines. At least 317 people have so far been rescued, according to the most recent tally by the Philippine Coast Guard, with 18 confirmed dead and 24 still unaccounted for. Sheryl Balondo, a rescuer in Isabela City, one of two municipalities where survivors were being taken, said their office had received more than 100 phone calls from concerned family members. “There’s a tug in our hearts whenever we pick up a call. Their voices sounded worried,” she said. “What we can only say is that, as of now, we don’t have the final list (of names), because the search and retrieval operation is ongoing.” The 44m ferry went down about 5km east of Baluk-Baluk Island, part of the Basilan province chain of islands off the Zamboanga peninsula. “Based on the account of some survivors, the waters in the area were rough at the time,” Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Noemie Cayabyab said in a televised interview. Basilan emergency responder Ronalyn Perez said rescuers were struggling to handle the influx of survivors. “The challenge really is the number of patients that are coming in. We are short staffed,” Perez said, adding that at least 18 had been brought to one local hospital.

BR I E F S

Survivors of the sunken MV Trisha Kerstin 3 being transferred to another ship in waters off Basilan province. – PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD HANDOUT/AFPPIC

cause,” said Romel Dua, a coast guard commander from southern Mindanao. The coast guard said the ferry had not been overloaded. “Our thoughts and hearts are with everyone who was on board,” Aleson Shipping Lines said in a statement, adding they were working in close coordination with the coast guard. – AFP

Video released by the Philippine Coast Guard showed survivors being plucked from the water and receiving medical attention. Some could be heard shouting for help in the dark in a live video on Facebook. “We cannot say for now the reason of the sinking, but we were instructed to conduct a marine casualty investigation to determine the

Thailand releases endangered leopard sharks MAITON ISLAND: After a brief countdown by conservationists, a young Indo-Pacific leopard shark glided into the blue waters off Maiton Island in Phuket, released in the country’s first efforts to “rewild” the endangered species.

taking care of the shark – daily feeding, recording their growth and also recording their general health to be able to keep them healthy and train them for the wild,” said Metavee, referring to human caretakers. Two days before the four pups were released last month, marine veterinarians conducted final health checks to ensure they were fit to be returned to the sea. The checks included ultrasound examinations to assess the sharks’ internal health, along with the fitting of acoustic tracking devices, the collection of DNA samples and measurements, before the animals were cleared for release. While the species is protected under Thailand’s wildlife conservation laws, Metavee said broader efforts such as protecting habitats, reducing pollution and improving marine resource management, are essential for the sharks’ long-term survival in the wild. For Metavee, success is not just about the number of sharks released, but about signs of true recovery: such as regular sightings by divers, evidence of breeding in the wild and the absence of leopard sharks from fish markets. “That’s probably what I would call a long term success,” she said. – Reuters

Once a familiar sight for snorkellers and divers, the spotted sharks have sharply declined in the wild over the past decade due to overfishing and habitat loss, even as they flourished in private aquariums. “Why not take the breeding population that is doing well in the aquariums and release them back into the wild so that the wild population can recover?” said Metavee Chuangcharoendee, project manager of the StAR Project Thailand, a partnership launched last year between the government, NGOs and aquariums. The latest release in December included the sharks Maiton, Hope, Spot and Toty, each nearly two years old. They were among seven pups released so far, after being bred and raised in an aquarium for about a year. All spent months being taught behaviours they will need in the wild, including in the sea pen off the pier at Maiton Resort, where they adjust to natural conditions. “This sea pen is built to acclimatise the shark to their environment and the shark nannies are

A shark nanny feeds a juvenile leopard shark in a sea pen ahead of its release. – REUTERSPIC