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TEARS OF GRATITUDE ... Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah lends a supportive shoulder to Dr Malik Yatam, 39, during a deeply emotional audience. Malik, who received a royal pardon in 2024, made history by

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completing his PhD behind bars. – PICTURE COURTESY OF SULTAN SHARAFUDDIN’S FACEBOOK PAGE

‘MM2H does not grant PR, citizenship’ on — page 2 PM denies ceding land to Indonesia Rare diseases to come under national health agenda Report on — page 4 Level playing field for MSME, govt urged Report on — page 5 Report on — page 3 Alignment of land boundary determined strictly by established international conventions and treaties, not by compensation or land swaps, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Report

Over 700 participants purchased homes under programme, 2,637 applications in process as of end-2025: Minister

Minister says no life too small to matter, rarity is no longer reason to deny treatment.

Malaysian businesses closing down amid intensifying global competition, says MEF chief.

THURSDAY | FEB 5, 2026

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Inmate who earns PhD in prison granted audience with Sultan after full pardon PETALING JAYA: Malaysia witnessed a special moment yesterday as Dr Malik Yatam became the first former detainee to receive a royal audience after earning a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) while serving a prison sentence. The 39-year-old met Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah in a nearly hour-long audience, marking the first time Sultan Sharafuddin has met a former detainee who had been granted a full royal pardon, the Selangor Royal Office confirmed. The meeting was described as solemn and emotional. Malik, who spent 24 years in detention after being imprisoned at the age of 14 in 2001, was granted a full pardon during Sultan Sharafuddin’s birthday celebrations in 2024. He was released on Dec 11 that year. While serving his sentence at Kajang Prison, he pursued and completed a PhD in Business Administration. During the audience, Sultan Sharafuddin enquired about Malik’s life since his release and his future plans. “His Royal Highness was deeply moved by Malik’s life journey and expressed the view that he deserved a second chance,” the Selangor Royal Office said. “The decision to grant the pardon was carefully considered after taking

into account all factors presented during the Pardons Board meeting on Nov 24, 2024.” Sultan Sharafuddin urged Malik to uphold his family’s good name and remain determined in improving his quality of life as he rebuilds his future after incarceration. – BY HARITH KAMAL

‘M’sia-Indonesia land boundary set by treaties’

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: The alignment of the Malaysia–Indonesia land boundary is determined strictly by established international conventions and treaties, not by compensation or land swaps, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday. Speaking in Parliament, he dismissed claims that Malaysia has surrendered 5,207ha to Indonesia as compensation for villages in Nunukan, North Kalimantan, namely Kampung Kabunggalo, Kampung Lempaga and Kampung Tertagas. He said boundary determination between the countries is governed by agreements inherited from the British and Dutch colonial administrations, such as the 1891 Boundary Convention, the 1915 Boundary Agreement and the 1928 Boundary Convention, covering a small sector in Sarawak. “For Sabah and Sarawak, boundary alignment is based on internationally recognised conventions and agreements that remain legally binding.” The current dispute involves outstanding boundary problems (OBP) along Sungai Sinapat and Sungai Sesai. Anwar said under the 1891 and 1915 agreements, the boundary is KUALA LUMPUR: Education-focused foundations will now enjoy a 10-year tax exemption, provided they meet requirements set by the Finance Ministry, announced Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday. The relief, aimed at supporting organisations established for educational purposes, will include groups such as Yayasan Tunku Abdul Rahman. “If a foundation’s mission is education and it complies with Finance Ministry regulations, it will be eligible for a decade-long tax exemption,” he said. He also used the occasion to challenge Malaysia’s youth to outshine the current generation, calling for bold strides in education, the economy and technological mastery, particularly in AI, to secure the nation’s future. Speaking at the Temu Anwar @ TAR UMT programme, he urged students to focus on core priorities, such as education, science and technology, warning against distractions that could weaken national unity. “We do not want the next generation to be as they are now. They must be better. I want my children, the next generation, to succeed far beyond what I have achieved, in the economy, education, IT and AI. Everything must improve. Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

must be made carefully and responsibly. This is not the time for narrow political gain at the expense of national interest or bilateral relations,” he said. He also criticised the Opposition for spreading false claims during the briefing. “Claims that Malaysia ceded land to Indonesia are untrue and, if not made with malicious intent, outright lies. “That is why we must adhere strictly to the agreement. The disputed area, as I see on the map, has been clearly defined since the 1915 agreement in all our records.” He said Malaysia’s relations with Indonesia have remained strong since 1974 and urged all parties to avoid rhetoric that could undermine diplomatic ties. “We may differ in views but we must not rush to judgement or offend our Indonesian counterparts, who are working sincerely to strengthen relations between the two countries.”

Malaysia–Indonesia Joint Border Committee meeting on Feb 18, 2025 and recorded in a memorandum of understanding. Under the agreement, Malaysia gained a small additional area at Pulau Sebatik and a larger area along Sungai Sinapat–Sungai Sesai. The remaining disputed area continues to be under Indonesian administration. Parts of the villages now fall within Malaysian territory, following the final boundary alignment, and have been incorporated into Sabah. “There is no element of compensation, exchange or loss-and-gain calculation in boundary determination. It is purely based on treaties and conventions.” Anwar cautioned that several sensitive boundary issues remain unresolved, including five land boundary sectors and inter-tidal areas in Sabah, as well as four OBP areas in Sarawak. “Statements on border matters

o Claims of ceded land untrue and, if not made with malicious intent, outright lies: Anwar

confirmed the final boundary. In the Sungai Sinapat–Sungai Sesai sector, similar surveys completed in 2023 finalised the boundary. Anwar said the negotiation and measurement process spanned 47 years and was resolved gradually to preserve strong bilateral relations. He said the Sabah government was fully involved, including the Chief Minister’s Office, the Attorney-General’s Chambers, the Lands and Surveys Department and other agencies. “Every inch of land was negotiated and agreed to by the Sabah government before any agreement was finalised between Malaysia and Indonesia.” Following the finalisation, the outcomes were tabled at the 45th

defined by the position of the river mouths in relation to 4° latitude 20 minutes north. The territory north of this line belongs to British North Borneo (now Sabah) while the territory south falls under the former Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia). However, joint surveys conducted by Malaysia and Indonesia since 1977 have found that Sungai Sinapat flows north of that latitude, contrary to earlier map interpretations. “OBP areas cannot be regarded as belonging to either country until negotiations are concluded as they are, by definition, unresolved boundary sectors,” said Anwar. For Pulau Sebatik, joint surveys and marking carried out in 2019 Set your priorities. “Do you want to succeed in education? In AI and related fields? If so, then start focusing on these issues and study, struggle and succeed in every way possible.” Anwar stressed that Malaysia must undertake bold reforms and accelerate progress across multiple sectors, cautioning that failure to keep pace with rapid global changes in technology, digitalisation and energy transition could leave the country behind. He also urged young Malaysians to make difficult choices to preserve peace and social cohesion, noting that nations embracing conflict and hostility eventually decline. “There are moments when we, especially young people, must pause and consider our next steps, so this country can remain peaceful, nurture compassion, confidence and trust among one another, and eradicate hostility, racial hatred and division. “Our founding leaders, in the early years of independence, chose the challenging path. “They did not opt for the easy route that preserved separation and racial hostility but instead chose a system that promoted peace.” Warning that appealing to narrow communal sentiments may be politically convenient, Anwar called on youths to prioritise the nation’s long term interests to elevate Malaysia on the global stage.

Tax exemption for education-focused foundations

Anwar is accompanied by MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, who is also TARC Education Foundation Board of Trustees chairman, at the Temu Anwar @ TAR UMT programme yesterday. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

Highlighting the multicultural fabric and moderate values of Malaysia as unique strengths, he said the country’s potential lies in harnessing the collective wisdom and talents of all communities. “That is how we live. That is how far we have come. I want all races to

“Meaningful change requires courage and firm decision-making, even if it brings criticism, rejection or personal attacks. I will be honest: When I look at you, these faces reflect the future of Malaysia, and I am confident you will make the right decisions.”

respect one another. “This is not a zero-sum game. Respect is fundamental, and it is embedded within the Madani framework, alongside human dignity. We want goodness for all. This is the essence of our effort to bring meaningful change to the country.”

THURSDAY | FEB 5, 2026

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Ű BY HARITH KAMAL AND FAIZ RUZMAN

RM2.96b for federal roads nationwide

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme does not grant permanent residency or citizenship, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing told the Dewan Rakyat yesterday, as more than 700 participants have purchased homes under the programme. ‘Special housing does not grant PR or citizenship’ o Under Malaysia My Second Home, 744 participants have bought homes, with another 2,637 in the process as of end-2025, says minister AT THE DEWAN RAKYAT

FEDERAL road maintenance will receive a major funding boost this year, with the Works Ministry allocating RM2.96 billion nationwide in 2025. The allocation is RM490 million higher than the RM2.48 billion spent in 2024 as the government steps up efforts to keep roads safe and serviceable. Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said the ministry, through the Public Works Department (PWD) and its state branches in Sabah and Sarawak, is responsible for maintaining 18,705.93km of federal roads nationwide. This includes 14,973.93km in Peninsular Malaysia, 1,536.95km in Sabah, 2,055.92km in Sarawak and 139.13km in Labuan. “Maintenance is carried out under three main programmes – routine preventive maintenance, periodic corrective maintenance for both pavements and non-pavements, and minor emergency repairs. “Routine maintenance addresses minor damage early to prevent deterioration, while periodic work involves more extensive repairs to road surfaces and underlying structures and emergency repairs are conducted immediately when road safety is at risk, with potholes patched within 24 hours of detection. “Street lighting and traffic light upkeep are also handled by PWD through procurement processes.” Ahmad was responding to a question from Jeli MP Zahari Kechik who sought details on federal road maintenance expenditure by state for 2024 and allocations for 2025. For Peninsular Malaysia, the total allocation for 2025 stands at RM2.36 billion, with Pahang receiving RM428.85 million, Johor RM424.08 million, and Selangor RM247.15 million — the largest shares. Other allocations include Perak (RM336.38 million), Kedah (RM236.26 million), Negeri Sembilan (RM192.84 million), Kelantan (RM173.08 million), Terengganu (RM166.40 million), Malacca (RM61.81 million), Pulau Pinang (RM50.36 million) and Perlis (RM43.41 million). Meanwhile, Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan will collectively receive RM595.59 million – Sabah (RM341.74 million), Sarawak (RM213.22 million) and Labuan (RM40.63 million). Addressing concerns over disparities between Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah, Ahmad said the RM341.7 million allocation for Sabah in 2025 reflects targeted federal support. He added that state and municipal roads are maintained by state governments using allocations from the Malaysian Road Records Information System under the Finance Ministry, while agricultural and rural roads fall under the purview of the ministries of Agriculture, and Rural and Regional Development. “These agencies are critical in ensuring that roads across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak remain safe and well-maintained.” The ministry emphasised its commitment to safe, reliable federal roads, noting that careful planning and prioritising urgent repairs help maintain the network’s quality and cost-effectiveness all year.

Ramli (Dungun-PN), where the Dungun MP sought the latest statistics and total number of homes sold to foreign nationals under the MM2H programme from 2023 to 2025, broken down by their country of origin and the number who have obtained citizenship. Tiong said MM2H participants are issued a long-term social visit pass with a multiple-entry visa, allowing foreign nationals to reside in Malaysia for between five and 20 years depending on category. “For the information of honourable member, the MM2H programme has never involved applications for permanent residency or citizenship,” he said. The programme operates under four tiers – platinum (20 years), gold (15 years), silver (five years) and special economic zone (10 years) – with pass endorsements renewable every five years until the end of each category’s validity period. Tiong said the programme is open to applicants worldwide and not limited to specific nationalities when responding to a supplementary question from Datuk Mohd Isam Mohd Isa (Tampin-BN). Mohd Isam had asked whether the ministry had plans to reduce reliance on traditional source markets such as China and Taiwan, and to expand promotion to the Middle East. “We open MM2H applications to people from all over the world, not only China and Taiwan. We also allow applicants from Arab countries. “There are people (from the Middle East) buying, but the numbers are not large. We will step up promotions in those countries.” graduates recorded and cumulative student sales reaching RM120 million between 2016 and 2025. Support extended to graduates includes Mara financing, access to business premises, incubation facilities, as well as training and advisory services to help new ventures stabilise and grow. She added that the ministry has been implementing the Start Right Programme (PSR) since 2021 as a catalyst for youths, including TVET graduates, to venture into technical entrepreneurship. Under the programme, participants receive entrepreneurship training, equipment sets and start-up capital of RM20,000, along with guidance and monitoring for 24 months to help them generate sustainable revenue. conceal and it is up to both the federal and Sarawak governments to decide whether details of the deal should be made public. “From the Transport Ministry’s perspective, we have no issue with this. There is nothing to hide because the process has been conducted on a fully transparent basis.” Loke said the federal government has already determined the valuation and payment method for the acquisition, but is still awaiting final confirmation from the Sarawak government as the handover process nears completion.

were read out only for the largest source nations. China topped the list with 304 units, followed by Taiwan (91), Singapore (63), the United States (41), the United Kingdom (40), Hong Kong (34) and Australia (29). Other countries included Bangladesh (19), South Korea (15), Indonesia (14) and Japan (14). Tiong was responding to Wan Hassan Mohd

As of Dec 31, 2025, a total of 744 MM2H participants had purchased residential properties in Malaysia, while another 2,637 participants are still in the process of buying homes, including finalising sale and purchase agreements and identifying suitable locations. Tiong said property purchases under the new MM2H phase involved participants from more than 90 countries, but detailed figures

Tiong said the MM2H programme involves long-term stay, not permanent residency and is open to applicants worldwide. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN Mara considers financing physiotherapy clinics

pay or not, I think the Honourable Member need not worry. The state government is not worried. “I am confident in Sarawak’s financial capability and they have even expressed their intention to pay in a lump sum,” he said during the question-and-answer session yesterday. Loke said Bintulu Port remains a federal port under the regulatory oversight of the Bintulu Port Authority until the Bintulu Port Authority (Dissolution) Act 2024 is fully enforced. “At this stage, the technical committee established and jointly chaired by the federal and state governments is finalising the legal PHYSIOTHERAPY clinics may soon qualify for Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara) financing, marking a potential expansion of Putrajaya’s push to grow healthcare-related entrepreneurship, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Deputy Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang said the ministry is assessing the inclusion of physiotherapy under Mara’s professional financing schemes, which currently support medical, dental and pharmaceutical practices. “Mara has special programmes for professional entrepreneurs, including the medical sector, such as UNI Clinics, dental and pharmaceutical sectors, and physiotherapy is a new proposal that can be supported. “This programme also provides sponsorship

aspects to ensure that all obligations of both parties are fully met.” He was responding to a question from Sibu MP Oscar Ling Chai Yew, who sought clarification on the current status of Bintulu Port and the amount to be paid by the Sarawak government. Loke also emphasised that the handover does not involve any private sector participation and is strictly a government-to-government arrangement. He added that the acquisition agreement was carried out transparently, with nothing to or loans for doctors who wish to open clinics in urban and rural areas, as well as for several other professional sectors.” Rubiah was responding to Bakri Jamaluddin (Tangga Batu-PN), who sought clarity on whether the ministry planned to introduce grants or payment mechanisms to help establish physiotherapy clinics in rural areas, particularly to serve vulnerable and B40 communities. She said the ministry is also positioning Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) graduates as part of a feeder pool into professional entrepreneurship, including healthcare-linked businesses. Entrepreneurship, Rubiah said, has been embedded as a core component across TVET institutions under the ministry, with 442

RM1.8b Bintulu Port to be handed over to Sarawak THE federal government has, in principle, agreed to hand over Bintulu Port to the Sarawak government at a valuation of RM1.8 billion, Transport Minister Anthony Loke said.

He said the transfer process is now in its final stage and is focused on completing the necessary legal procedures. He said the transaction would not place a financial burden on Sarawak, noting that the state government has the financial capacity to make the payment and that the amount was mutually agreed upon by both parties. “Whether the Sarawak government is able to

THURSDAY | FEB 5, 2026

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Govt to prioritise rare diseases in health agenda

Ministry pushing female labour participation BUKIT MERTAJAM: The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry is stepping up a range of initiatives to increase women’s participation in the national workforce, aimed at achieving a 60% target by 2033. Deputy Minister Lim Hui Ying said the current national female labour force participation rate stands at 56.9%, stressing that sustained and strengthened efforts are needed to meet the target. She said key initiatives include skill enhancement and reskilling programmes, particularly to encourage homemakers to re-enter the job market. “Our target is 60%. Although the gap may appear small, it is not easy to achieve. We will continue to make every effort to meet this target by 2033.” Lim was speaking after officiating at the Penang-level International Women’s Day celebration here yesterday. Also present were Seberang Perai mayor Datuk Baderul Amin Abdul Hamid and Women’s Development Department deputy director-general Dr Faridah Awang. She added that under the Women’s Development Plan, various initiatives have been planned and will be implemented nationwide through the respective states. Lim said the 56.9% figure reflects women registered in the formal sector, noting that many others are employed in the informal sector or are full-time homemakers and therefore not captured in the statistics. She said in this regard, the government is placing emphasis on developing the care economy and caregiving industry as potential sectors to generate more employment opportunities for women. She noted that Penang has recorded a significant increase in female labour force participation, rising to 57.6% in 2024 compared with 46.7% in 2022 and 47.3% in 2023. She said the increase is in line with Penang’s position as a hub for industry, technology, education and the creative economy, and underscores that the state’s progress cannot be achieved without the active participation of women. – Bernama National Union of the Teaching Profession, Malaysia Airlines Pilots Association, Malaysian Pharmacists Society, Institution of Engineers Malaysia, Malaysian Institution of Archiects and Data Science Association. The conference is part of MMA’s annual corporate social responsibility initiative focusing on education and youth development. Registration is free via the MMA website under the Career Guidance Conference page in the Events section. For more information, call 03-4041 1375 (ext 113 or 109) or email schomos@mma.org.my.

o No life too small to matter, rarity no longer reason to deny care: Minister

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

KUALA LUMPUR: Rare diseases will no longer be treated as a peripheral concern in Malaysia’s healthcare system, with the government moving to embed them firmly within the national health agenda, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad yesterday. Speaking at the National Rare Disease Day celebration at the Tunku Azizah Hospital, he said the rarity of a condition should never justify denying patients access to care. “Rare does not mean insignificant. No life is too small to matter and rarity is no longer a reason to deny healthcare,” he noted. Globally, nearly 8,000 rare diseases have been identified, yet only about 5% have specific treatments available. In Southeast Asia, about 40 million people are affected. In Malaysia, around 12,000 patients living with nearly 500 types of rare diseases are receiving treatment at hospitals nationwide. Dzulkefly acknowledged that past Health Ministry initiatives, such as trust funds and targeted programmes, have largely been ad hoc and insufficient to meet the complex, long-term needs of rare disease patients. He said this underscores the need for a more structured, coordinated and sustainable approach. As a result, Malaysia has introduced the National Rare Disease Policy, marking a major milestone in strengthening the country’s healthcare ecosystem. The policy provides a formal national framework to guide rare disease management and shifts care from conventional, piecemeal approaches towards a systematic model focused on clinical governance,

Dzulkefly (left) and Harikrishna participating in the handprint pledge initiative at the National Rare Disease Day celebration yesterday. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

“This platform allows families to learn together. By understanding academic requirements and workplace realities, parents could better support their children in making well-informed career decisions.” The conference will feature talks and interactive question-and-answer sessions with professionals, alongside participation from universities and colleges providing information on academic pathways. Participating organisations include the National Union of Journalists Malaysia, Malaysian Dental Association, Malaysian Institute of Accountants, represents a voice of support for patients and their families. It is a reminder that behind every rare diagnosis is an individual and a family in need of understanding, empathy and continuous support.” The event brought together patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, patient organisations, industry partners and the public, bridging gaps between lived experiences and available healthcare services through patient sharing sessions and the “Rare but Real” public awareness exhibition, involving 24 organisations. The handprint pledge initiative was carried out across eight hospitals nationwide, with a target of collecting at least 2,000 pledges as a symbol of national solidarity. The celebration culminated with Dzulkefly placing the final handprint during the Malaysia Book of Records ceremony, reinforcing the government’s commitment to ensuring no patient is left behind.

pathways,” he said. He added that early exposure to authentic career insights could help students avoid costly missteps later, describing career selection as a major life decision requiring accurate information and direct engagement with professionals. Organising chairman Dr Sivabala Selvaratnam said many students have limited exposure to career options beyond what they encounter online or through family and friends, stressing that parents remain key influencers in decision-making process. private sector, to ensure long-term sustainability of care. The National Rare Disease Day celebration, held in conjunction with the global observance of World Rare Disease Day each February, featured a national handprint pledge initiative aimed at rallying public solidarity for the rare disease community. The initiative was recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records for achieving the “Most Handprint Pledges Collected at a National Rare Disease Event”, symbolising the collective commitment of Malaysians to uphold the rights, dignity and wellbeing of individuals and families affected by rare diseases. Kuala Lumpur Hospital director Datuk Dr Harikrishna Ragavan Nair said the celebration was particularly meaningful for the Kuala Lumpur Hospital and Tunku Azizah Hospital as key referral centres that work closely with rare disease patients and their families. “Each handprint collected

students and parents make more informed decisions about future career paths. The free programme is open to students aged between 15 and 19. MMA president Datuk Dr Thirunavukarasu Rajoo said one of the biggest gaps observed today is the disconnect between career expectations and professional realities. “This conference is designed to bridge that gap by allowing students and parents to hear directly from professionals about what these careers truly involve, the challenges, the responsibilities and the long-term early and accurate diagnosis, and expanded access to treatment, including orphan drugs and specialised nutrition. He added that addressing rare diseases requires a whole-of-nation approach, involving not only federal and state governments, but also other ministries, healthcare professionals, patient advocacy groups, industry players, civil society and philanthropic contributors. “Managing rare diseases goes beyond healthcare alone. It requires cross-ministerial collaboration in education, awareness, welfare, social protection as well as patient empowerment. This cannot be done by the Health Ministry alone.” On funding, Dzulkefly said an additional RM5 million has been allocated for rare disease initiatives, thanking state governments and the Finance Ministry for their support. He added that further funding would be sought, including philanthropic contributions from the

‘Growing mismatch between expectations and workplace realities’

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Many students are choosing careers based on perceptions rather than an understanding of real workplace realities, creating a growing mismatch between expectations and the demands of professional life, the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) said. It said the issue has prompted it to organise its third Career Guidance Conference on Saturday and Sunday at M World Hotel in Petaling Jaya, aimed at helping secondary school

THURSDAY | FEB 5, 2026

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‘Protect local MSME amid foreign influx’ o Government must boost content policies so domestic businesses remain competitive: MEF president

Brothers indicted for murder

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) has called on the government to take urgent action to level the playing field for Malaysian micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME), saying local businesses are increasingly under threat from foreign operators. MEF president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman backed recent remarks by Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Minister Steven Sim, who highlighted mounting pressures on local businesses amid intensifying global competition, particularly from China and the rise of protectionist measures abroad. Speaking at a recent media forum, Sim said foreign producers are increasingly selling directly into Malaysia, bypassing local intermediaries. However, he said as a small and open economy, Malaysia must be prudent in responding with tariff-style measures. Syed Hussain emphasised that the government must strengthen local content policies, including prioritising Malaysian products and enterprises within government-linked companies (GLCs) and public procurement frameworks to ensure domestic businesses could scale up and remain competitive. “Local MSME are closing down, jobs are being lost and domestic supply chains are weakening. This trend cannot be allowed to continue.” Highlighting the critical role of MSME, he added that they make up nearly 97% of registered businesses and contribute 39% of Malaysia’s GDP, serving as key employers and stabilisers of the economy. He also emphasised that openness should not come at the expense of local businesses. “We are not calling for blanket protectionism. We need a fair and well-enforced competitive environment. “Foreign businesses often enter Malaysia with lower compliance burdens, bypass local intermediaries and undercut prices, placing State police chief Datuk Shazeli Kahar said the integrated operation conducted by the Selangor Commercial Crime Investigation Department, together with several district police headquarters, led to the arrest of 20 individuals, including a Malaysian, aged between 25 and 36. He added that police also seized 42 mobile phones, 20 computers, four mobile WiFi units, two laptops, two modems and a router worth RM85,000. “Their modus operandi involves offering part-time work, share investments and opportunities to generate income through the digital platform before (individuals) are instructed to make certain payments. “The syndicate members act as operators who would contact individuals through social media apps and websites to convince them to make investments or take up the job offers,” he told a media conference at the Selangor police headquarters yesterday. Shazeli said in the first raid in Bandar Sungai Long, Kajang on Jan 23, police arrested six individuals: a Malaysian man, four foreign men and a foreign woman, aged between 28 and 33. “The syndicate, which has been operating since December 2025, targeted Australians and Italians with online part-time job offers.” He said in the second raid at Pusat Bandar Putra Permai in Seri Kembangan on Jan 26, police arrested nine foreign men, aged between 27 and 35, adding that the syndicate has been active since November 2025 and targeted Chinese nationals with online

JOHOR BAHRU: Two brothers were charged with murdering a man at an oil palm plantation house in September last year. R. Arasan, 32, and R. Utes, 36, nodded in acknowledgment after the charges were read out before Magistrate Nabilah Nizam. They face a charge of jointly murdering 28-year-old V. Thamil Selvan at an unnumbered house in an oil palm plantation in Kangkar Pulai, Skudai on Sept 15. The charge under Section 302 of the Penal Code read with Section 34 carries the death penalty or up to 40 years’ imprisonment and up to 12 strokes of the cane if the death penalty is not imposed. The court denied bail and scheduled the next case mention for April 6, pending the autopsy, toxicology and DNA reports. Johor police chief Datuk Ab Rahaman Arsad on Tuesday said six human skeletons, including five from the same family, believed dead for over three months, were found in a house that burned down last month in an oil palm plantationa in Kangkar Pulai, Skudai. The six victims were a 35-year-old woman, a 19-year-old girl, two girls aged nine and five, a two-year-old boy and a 28-year-old man. Police arrested four local suspects, three men and a woman aged 19 to 35, in Iskandar Puteri on Jan 21. Two other suspects were released on police bail as prosecution witnesses. – Bernama Suspected drug dealer killed in crash ALOR SETAR: A suspected female drug dealer was killed and her companion seriously hurt when their car skidded and crashed near the Land Office on Jalan Suka Menanti on Tuesday. Kota Setar police chief ACP Syed Basri Syed Ali said the crash happened at about 8.20pm, killing the 33-year-old passenger at the scene and seriously injuring the 37-year-old driver. “Officers on Op Gempur patrol in the area spotted the car carrying the two women acting suspiciously. Police pursued the vehicle before it crashed. “A subsequent search found a plastic packet containing 210g of a substance believed to be heroin,” he said in a statement yesterday. Syed Basri said the driver had 12 prior narcotics offences, while the woman who died had three drug records and one other criminal offence. “The woman’s body was sent to the Forensic Department at the Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital for further action, while her seriously injured companion is being treated at the same hospital. “Investigations are underway under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 and Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.” – Bernama Man faces charge over assault of minor SHAH ALAM: An unemployed man who was arrested for allegedly assaulting and molesting a nine-year-old girl at Bukit Sentosa in Rawang on Jan 29, will be charged in court today. Selangor police chief Datuk Shazeli Kahar said the man would be charged in the Kuala Kubu Bharu Magistrate’s Court under Section 325 of the Penal Code for causing grevious hurt. “I was told that the investigation paper has been completed and instructions have been given for the charge to be made under Section 325 of the Penal Code (for assault). Previously, Hulu Selangor police chief Supt Ibrahim Husin said police were notified of the incident at 8pm and that it occurred when the victim was on her way to a night market with her siblings. The suspect also tested positive for drugs. – Bernama

Last month, the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry announced it would review its 2020 guidelines on foreign participation in the food and beverage (F&B) sector, amid concerns that the rapid expansion of foreign brands may threaten local MSME. The ministry said the guidelines are outdated and contain loopholes. theSun reported last week on the issue with SME Association of Malaysia president Dr Chin Chee Seong describing the review as timely. “The review isn’t just about identifying loopholes; it’s about revisiting the definitions and terms used in the 2020 guidelines “Currently, the wording is problematic. It uses phrases like ‘you are expected’ or ‘you are required,’ but there is no ‘must.’ “Foreign companies are only encouraged to comply, which creates loopholes in practice.” Chin added that some foreign outlets could bypass rules intended to protect MSME, such as the requirement for an impact study for F&B outlets exceeding 5,000 square feet to ensure they do not negatively affect local businesses. He said foreign operators should also invest locally, engage domestic supply chains, hire local labour and coordinate with municipal authorities issuing operational licences.

local MSME at a structural disadvantage.” Syed Hussain said MEF strongly supports Sim’s call for stricter enforcement in key areas, including licensing, tax compliance, product standards, consumer protection and fair market conduct. “Rules must apply equally to all operators. Weak enforcement penalises compliant local businesses and distorts competition.” He also reiterated support for prioritising local products and companies in public procurement, GLC sourcing and national supply chains. “Domestic confidence is the foundation of global competitiveness. “If companies are not trusted and supported at home, they will never thrive abroad.” MEF welcomed government initiatives to boost productivity, reduce bureaucracy, improve access to capital and expand market opportunities, while adding that financing constraints, cash-flow pressures and regulatory complexity continue to hamper MSME growth. “The survival and growth of MSME must be treated as a national economic priority. “MEF stands firmly with the government in calling for tougher rules, stronger enforcement and a business ecosystem that genuinely supports local enterprises, before it is too late.”

Police cripple online scam syndicate SHAH ALAM: Selangor police have crippled an online scam syndicate offering part-time jobs and investments to victims overseas, following separate raids on three premises in Kajang, Seri Kembangan and Puchong last month.

Shazeli (centre) at the Selangor contingent police headquarters, showing media personnel devices seized during the operation to foil the fraud syndicate. – BERNAMAPIC investment schemes. investigated under sections 420 and 120B of the Penal Code.

In the third raid, conducted in Bandar Puteri in Puchong on Jan 28, five foreigners – four men and a woman – aged between 25 and 36 were detained. He said the third syndicate branch has been operating since December 2025 by targeting Pakistanis, using TikTok to offer them part-time jobs. Shazeli said all the cases are being

“For the case in Bandar Sungai Long, all the suspects were charged under Section 120B(2) of the Penal Code and fined RM2,500 each, while the other arrested individuals have been remanded for between five and seven days,”he said, adding that they neither have prior criminal records nor tested positive for drugs. – Bernama

THURSDAY | FEB 5, 2026

/thesuntelegram FOLLOW / Malaysian Paper

ON TELEGRAM m RAM

6

UiTM sends second satellite into orbit

building, and the City Gallery helps visitors better understand Kuala Lumpur’s past.” He also said the reopening offers a valuable opportunity for locals, especially the younger generation, as well as tourists to appreciate the capital city’s transformation from the colonial era to the present. Last Saturday, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim the King of Malaysia officiated the completion of Phase One restoration works at the building after 11 months of conservation carried out under the Khazanah Heritage Fund programme, an initiative by Warisan KL. – Bernama International Collaboration Fund with RM500,000, and others from UiTM through the Strategic Research Partnership Fund as well as financial contributions from international collaboration partners. The UiTM satellite development involves the Satellite Integration Laboratory at UiTM and the ground station at the Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah Engineering Complex at the university, equipped with VHF/UHF Yagi antennas, a rotator system and an amateur operator licence that is renewed periodically. Meanwhile, Shahrin said the launch of the nanosatellite proves that Malaysia, particularly UiTM, is capable and ready to play a greater role in the future technological landscape. “UiTMSAT-2 also reflects meaningful university-industry collaboration, in which academic research is translated into real-world technological applications. “It is not just a nanosatellite. It is a symbol of local expertise, a manifestation of confidence in the talent of Malaysian children and proof that public universities are capable of being a driver of the country’s strategic technology.”

o Project to focus on Earth observation, spaced-based IoT: Academic

KUALA LUMPUR: The reopening of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building yesterday not only restored one of the nation’s most iconic heritage landmarks, but also rekindled memories for a former employee who once worked within its historic walls more than four decades ago. For M. Saraswathy, 64, every corner of the building tells a story of her early working life as a court interpreter in the 1980s, memories she still recounts with pride. “I worked as a court interpreter with Tan Sri V.C. George, a former Court of Appeal judge, for about 10 years. The moment I stepped inside SHAH ALAM: Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) created history by successfully releasing its second nanosatellite, UiTMSAT-2, into orbit from the International Space Station (ISS). Project leader Dr Fatimah Zaharah Ali said UiTMSAT-2 is a 1.1kg 1U CubeSat nanosatellite that was released through the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) using the JEM Small Satellite Orbital Deployer mechanism. She said the UiTMSAT-2 project carries the primary mission of an Earth observation camera and the secondary mission of a space-based Internet-of-Things (IoT), Bernama reported. “It is aimed at transmitting sensor data from remote areas that do not have a terrestrial (ground) connection network and use the VHF-UHF amateur radio frequency band.”

again, I was overwhelmed. I could remember exactly where I stood and where I worked. “I came to revisit my old workplace. The courtroom on the ground floor is now a gallery, but that was where I once earned my living.” Among the moments she treasures most is meeting Malaysia’s first prime minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, who once visited the building for court matters. “I met him in the corridor downstairs. It felt surreal. I had only read about him in history books, and suddenly he was there in front of me.” She also praised the restoration was broadcast from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency at 7.52pm (Japan time) on Tuesday. The event was also attended by UiTM vice-chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Shahrin Sahib at the Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Chancellery Building in UiTM. UiTM launched UiTMSAT-2 to the ISS on Oct 26, 2025 via the HTV-X1 mission using the H3 F7 rocket from the Tanegashima Space Centre in Japan, precisely at 8am Malaysian time (9am Japanese time). Fatimah Zaharah said the small satellite project would operate in low Earth orbit at an altitude of 380km to 400km (from Earth) and would orbit the planet 16 times in 24 hours. Meanwhile, she said the development of UiTMSAT-2 since February 2021, with the formation of the engineering model at UiTM, involved the process of component procurement, circuit board design, subsystem integration and functional testing. She added that vibration and

Shahrin said the launch of the nanosatellite proves that Malaysia, particularly UiTM, is capable and ready to play a greater role in the future technological landscape. – BERNAMAPIC

The project is led by UiTM as the main institution, with strategic collaboration from the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta (Philippines), King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok (Thailand) and Kyutech as the technical supporter.

works, adding that the building’s original character has been carefully preserved. “The original stones and structure are still intact. They only cleaned and repainted it, and that makes me very happy.” Saraswathy also expressed hope that the landmark would continue to be preserved as a national treasure and serve as a historical and tourism attraction for future generations. The building’s reopening has also drawn younger visitors eager to discover what lies beyond its facade. Nur Balqis Batrisyia Muhamad Hanipiah, 18, said this was her first electromagnetic compatibility tests were conducted in Malaysia, while the development of the flight model continued at the Kyushu Institute of Technology (Kyutech) in Japan from 2024 to 2025, including the integration of solar panels and space environment tests such as the thermal vacuum test, antenna deployment test, communication test and fit check test.

Project funding was contributed by the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry through the Reopening of Sultan Abdul Samad building rekindles memories She was speaking to reporters at the Live Viewing Ceremony for the launch of the nanosatellite, which

time stepping inside despite living in Kuala Lumpur. “Previously, I only passed by and didn’t know what was inside. But after seeing videos on TikTok, I found out there are galleries, cafes and many interesting spots for photos.” She described the architecture as striking and appealing, especially for photography enthusiasts and those interested in design. Tour guide William Wong, 41, also visited out of his interest in history, saying this was his first time entering the building despite often photographing it from outside. “I came because it’s a historic

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

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THURSDAY | FEB 5, 2026

7

Panel throws out Marcos impeachment complaints

Pakistan sends helicopters to end standoff QUETTA: Pakistan’s security forces used drones and helicopters to wrest control of a southwestern town from insurgents after a three day battle, police said yesterday. Saturday’s wave of coordinated attacks by the Baloch Liberation Army brought Pakistan’s largest province to a near standstill as security forces exchanged fire with insurgents in more than a dozen places, killing 197 gunmen. “I thought the roof and walls of my house were going to blow up,” said Robina Ali, a housewife living near the main administrative building in the fortified provincial capital of Quetta, where a powerful morning blast rocked the area. Fighters of the BLA, the region’s strongest insurgent group, stormed schools, banks, markets and security installations across Balochistan in one of their largest operations ever, killing more than 22 security officials and 36 civilians. In the desert town of Nushki, home to about 50,000, the insurgents seized control of the police station and other security installations, triggering a three-day standoff. Police said seven officers were killed in the fighting before they regained control of the town late on Monday, while operations against the BLA continue elsewhere in the province. “More troops were sent to Nushki,” said one security official. “Helicopters and drones were used against the militants.” Pakistan’s Interior Ministry did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. GROUP CONDEMNS JOURNOS’ ARREST BEIJING: Reporters Without Borders (RSF) condemned the detention of two independent journalists. It said Wu Yingjiao and Liu Hu were detained on Sunday in Sichuan province. The arrests followed the Jan 29 publication of a co-authored investigative report on WeChat. The report has since been deleted from WeChat. Aleksandra Bielakowska, RSF’s advocacy manager for the Asia-Pacific region, said the detention highlights a “restrictive and hostile” environment for independent reporting in China. – Reuters UKRAINIAN EYES TOP SUMO PRIZE TOKYO: A Ukrainian grappler is in deep training for the highest prize in sumo. Aonishiki, which means “blue brocade” in honour of the Ukrainian flag, has already achieved the sport’s second-highest status as an ozeki champion. A win at the spring tournament in Osaka next month would make him eligible for promotion to yokozuna , an exalted grand champion status that has been achieved by just 75 men. The growing global interest in sumo and the pride of his countrymen are major sources of inspiration for the 140kg grappler. – Reuters

MANILA: A Philippine Lower House committee rejected impeachment complaints against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr yesterday that could have forced him from power over allegations he swindled taxpayers out of billions of dollars. Marcos is facing a public firestorm over ghost infrastructure projects to help control floods in the archipelago country, where entire towns were swallowed up in floodwaters last year. One of two complaints, endorsed by the Makabayan bloc of left-wing parties, had accused Marcos of packing the national budget with projects aimed at redirecting funds to his allies. Another focused on allegations that the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte, and his transfer to o ‘Bid lacks substance’ BANGKOK: stopped Thailand’s former prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva every now and again to ask for selfies as the salt-and pepper-haired leader walked through a bustling market in Bangkok, campaigning for general elections on Feb 8. “Good to see you again, still handsome just like before,” said one noodle vendor, reflecting voters’ persisting warm feelings for the Oxford-trained economist, who is making an unexpected comeback to frontline politics. Abhisit’s return has fuelled a revival of his Democrat Party, reshaping an electoral contest that formerly looked like a three-way tussle among the ruling Bhumjaithai Party, the progressive People’s Party and the populist Pheu Thai Party. “I just want to offer a choice and revive the party,” Abhisit, 61, told Reuters, as he strolled down a major road in the capital, greeting office workers on lunch breaks. “Every time I meet people, they are frustrated with the lack of choice.” Government employee Yuttapum Rattanamanee, a voter in the northeast, said he was one of four in his family backing the Democrats again because Abhisit came back to lead the party. “When Abhisit left, the party lost its power because people no longer trusted the leadership,”the 37-year-old said. “Abhisit is capable, competent and honest.” Thailand’s oldest political party, the Democrats had long dominated the south and Bangkok, before sliding into decline after a military coup in 2014. Despite the goodwill, Abhisit is unlikely to get enough support to become prime minister, a survey showed last week. But he has helped his party win back conservative voters after years of lacklustre efforts, said Olarn Thinbangtieo, a political scientist at Burapha University. “Its earlier decline came from Passersby

The other case against Marcos thrown out yesterday, brought by a local lawyer, had cited not only Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest, but unproven allegations of drug abuse by the president. In the Philippines, any citizen can file an impeachment complaint provided it is endorsed by one of the more than 300 members of Congress. Dennis Coronacion, chair of the political science department at Manila’s University of Santo Tomas, told AFP earlier this month that the complaints had little chance of advancing. “This ... has a very slim chance of getting the approval of the House Committee on Justice and (even less) so, in the plenary, because the president still enjoys the support of the members of the House of Representatives,” Coronacion said. – AFP

Under Philippine constitution, an impeachment by the House triggers a Senate trial, where a guilty verdict means expulsion from office and a lifetime ban on political service. Makabayan bloc lawmaker Sarah Elago said the committee’s decision was a “clear attempt to block the accountability process”. “The real reason the majority refuses to let the complaints proceed to a full-blown hearing is clear: the administration’s allies do not want President Marcos Jr to ... explain and answer the serious allegations against him,” she told reporters. The committee hearing came just two days after a pair of impeachment complaints hit Marcos’s vice-president and arch political foe, Sara Duterte, Rodrigo Duterte’s daughter who is widely considered a possible presidential contender in 2028. the

the International Criminal Court in The Hague constituted kidnapping. But the committee voted overwhelmingly against both complaints, saying they lacked sufficient substance to move forward. “It is clear from the complaint that the president did not do any overt act that shows that he directed these three schemes (allegedly aimed at bilking taxpayers),” Representative Ysabel Zamora, the committee’s vice-chair, said during a hearing before the vote. “Having an imperfect policy direction is not an impeachable offence.” Lawmaker Alyssa Gonzales said the complaint did not prove Marcos had participated in its alleged “systematic scheme of corruption”. “The president’s specific role was never disclosed or included in the allegations,” she said.

Former PM Abhisit returns to Thai politics

BR I E F S

Abhisit greeting supporters in Bangkok. – REUTERSPIC

Abhisit a distant third to be prime minister, after frontrunner People’s Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut and second-ranked Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul Much of Abhisit’s support comes from his party’s traditional southern heartland. In the key province of Songkhla, a January survey showed Abhisit as the top choice for premier, well ahead of the incumbent Anutin. “It suggests that southern people are coming back, warming to us,” Abhisit said. But winning in the capital, Thailand’s single largest electoral block with 33 seats and 4.5 million voters, which was almost entirely swept by a predecessor of the People’s Party in 2023, will be a tough task for the Democrats, he said. – Reuters

leadership that drifted away from the party’s principles,” Olarn said. “His return has lifted support.” As prime minister from 2008 to 2011, Abhisit faced prolonged street protests by the “Red Shirt” populist movement backed by former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, who also founded Pheu Thai. In 2010, he ordered a military crackdown on demonstrations in central Bangkok that killed 90, a toll rights groups blamed on “excessive and unnecessary lethal force” used by security forces seeking to restore order. But Thai courts dismissed all the criminal cases faced by Abhisit and senior officials, with no convictions. Abhisit stepped away from politics after the Democrats won just 52 of 500 seats up for grabs in the 2019 general

election. In 2023, the party slid further, clinching just 25 seats. Now the Democrats are resurgent, opinion polls largely driven by Abhisit’s personal appeal show. A survey by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) ranked Abhisit third among likely prime ministerial candidates last week, while his Democrat Party took fourth place overall. That suggests the party could emerge as a pivotal force in talks to form a coalition after an election that is expected to give no single party an outright majority. The Democrats’ gains could come at the expense of the ruling Bhumjaithai, splitting conservative and older voters nationwide, Olarn said. Nevertheless, the NIDA survey put