13/02/2026

Analysts predict substantial fallout should Bersatu axe deputy chief ‘Given his strong grassroots support, move could weaken party and destabilise Perikatan Nasional.’

FRIDAY FEB 13, 2026

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SCAN ME No. 9063 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

Govt to clear all arrears for Year of Assessment 2023 by end of month, ahead of original Q1 2026 target: Finance minister II Record RM22b in tax refunds

Govt defends police action over temple structure demolition Religious disputes must be settled through legal channels, not exploited to inflame tensions: Minister S’gor phasing out swine farming following directive from Sultan State stops issuing new licences, clearing existing farms in Tanjong Sepat: MB Report on h page 2

The amount of total refunds for the current exercise is the highest in five years, with RM56 billion paid for the three years from 2023 to 2025. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

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Report on h page 5

FRIDAY | FEB 13, 2026

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Govt defends arrests over temple demolition

Foreigners abusing social passes to run businesses PUTRAJAYA: The Home Ministry has uncovered a growing pattern of foreigners abusing social visit passes to run businesses in Malaysia, often by using local partners or borrowed licences to skirt immigration and commercial laws. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said enforcement operations have detected foreign nationals entering the country on social visit passes, which prohibit employment and business activities, before partnering Malaysians who hold business licences to operate enterprises ranging from tourism accommodation and restaurants to interior design and furniture ventures. “In some cases, foreign nationals enlist local business partners. “They use the licence of a local individual,” he said. “They may be the investor, but if they wish to conduct business activities, they must apply for the appropriate pass that allows them to do so. “If they enter on a social visit pass and proceed to operate a business, even with a local partner, that is against the law.” Citing a case in Semporna within the Eastern Sabah Security Command zone, he said authorities identified up to 81 chalet units allegedly operating under such an arrangement. Saifuddin said enforcement action is being taken under several laws, including the Immigration Act, against individuals who entered illegally, misused their passes or overstayed after lawful entry. “We have identified a business model in which foreign nationals enter with a local partner and then operate the business themselves. “This clearly affects local business operators who follow the law.” He added that the development of tourism facilities on such a scale could not have happened overnight, underscoring the need for stronger vigilance by local authorities. “If such facilities are being developed, immediate action should be taken. “If our investigations involve travel agents or other facilitators, we will zoom in on all directions of inquiry to identify the root cause and those responsible. “Is this outside our attention? “The answer is no, especially after the prime minister openly called for stronger enforcement.” On Jan 30, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil conveyed a directive from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim calling for firm action against foreigners abusing social visit passes to work or conduct businesses in Malaysia. According to the statement, 54,791 individuals had been screened since last year as part of efforts to curb visa misuse and protect local employment opportunities. Anwar emphasised that visitors entering Malaysia under social visit passes must strictly comply with the conditions attached to the passes and warned that severe penalties would be imposed on violators. – By Faiz Ruzman

295, 504 and 447 of the Penal Code, relating to mischief causing damage or defiling a place of worship, intentional insult to provoke a breach of peace and criminal trespass. On Feb 9, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reiterated that Malaysia is governed by the rule of law and local councils have the authority to remove illegal structures so the issue could be resolved properly. On Feb 10, the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah issued a statement supporting Anwar’s stance against the construction of houses of worship without approval. His Royal Highness emphasised that all development, including Hindu temples, must comply with existing laws, planning regulations and approvals from the state government and local authorities. The statement revealed that as of Jan 31, there were 687 unauthorised Hindu temples in Selangor, comprising 388 built on government land and 299 on private land.

concerns local planning, involve the local authority. If it concerns legal issues, refer to the relevant laws and enforcement bodies.” He stressed that escalation would benefit no one, adding that Malaysia’s long-standing inter-communal harmony must be preserved. On Feb 11, Selangor police confirmed that four local men were detained to assist investigations into the alleged demolition of a temple structure in Rawang. Selangor police chief Datuk Shazeli Kahar said the arrests followed a report lodged by a local man over the incident in Taman Rawang Perdana. Initial investigations found that part of the temple had been demolished without any prior discussion or notification to the local authority or the complainant before clearing works were carried out. The four, aged between 26 and 39, were detained to facilitate investigations. Shazeli said the case is being investigated under sections 427,

o Police empowered to take pre-emptive action to stop offences: Home minister

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

“Police rely on Section 105 of the Criminal Procedure Code to prevent or stop offences. “Such pre-emptive action is allowed under the law,” he told reporters after the Home Ministry monthly assembly yesterday. Saifuddin also emphasised that constitutional freedoms are not absolute. “Freedom of speech is not freedom to incite. Freedom of speech is not freedom to inflame sentiments that could further heighten racial and religious tensions. There are limits. “This matter has long existed. It did not suddenly arise in the past three years. There are individuals who choose to manipulate the issue, and play on sentiments and emotions instead of seeking solutions. “If it concerns land matters, involve the state government. If it

PUTRAJAYA: The government has defended preventive police action over the demolition of part of a temple structure in Rawang, adding that religious disputes must be settled through legal channels and not exploited to inflame tensions. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said he would brief the Cabinet on the circumstances surrounding the Feb 10 incident, including the individuals involved and measures taken by police to maintain order. “Sometimes police action is seen only from one perspective. When a gathering is organised around the issue, enforcement taken by the authorities may be portrayed as not respecting freedom of assembly and freedom of speech. KUALA LUMPUR: The Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry will probe community concerns over a controversial data centre project in Johor, its minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said yesterday. The statement follows a protest by more than 50 residents in Gelang Patah on Feb 7, who raised concerns over potential dust and water supply disruptions from the facility, which is less than a kilometre from homes and being built for China-based Zdata Technologies. Responding to theSun ’s report highlighting Johor’s data centre boom amid tightening utility constraints, Arthur said the ministry would first assess the situation before deciding on further action. “We will have to look into that,” he told reporters at a press conference following the Low Carbon Cities (LCC) awards event. He acknowledged that data centres are energy-intensive. “Data centres have high energy requirements. “Under our new energy transition roadmap, we need to adopt greener and more renewable energy sources.” The report quoted Universiti Teknologi Malaysia associate professor Dr Muhammad Najib Razali, who said reliance on conventional water and grid power could no longer be assumed. He said sites with alternative water sources, on-site recycling or energy-efficient systems are now more valuable and bankable. Muhammad Najib added that data centres exceeding utility thresholds risk redesign, delays or even relocation, signalling a major Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Community concerns over Johor data centre to be probed

Arthur (centre) presenting awards during the LCC event. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

programme record participation, with 164 recognitions awarded, reflecting a shift from infrastructure to community habits such as carpooling, public transport use and e-bikes. On zero-carbon cities, he said the 2050 target remains, with high achievers recognised through ratings of up to five-star. “Sustainability is an investment, not a cost. Every sector must play a part – industries, schools, sports complexes – for a whole-of-nation effort.” saw

hub, attracting global giants such as Oracle, Amazon, Alibaba and ByteDance. Johor alone approved RM164.45 billion in investments by mid-2025 but the proximity of such projects to residential areas has renewed scrutiny over environmental safeguards. At the LCC event, Arthur hailed the ministry’s 200 low-carbon zones, praising authorities and industry for cutting greenhouse gas emissions. Now in its 12th year, the

shift in how industrial land is assessed and approved. Arthur emphasised that large scale digital infrastructure projects must align with Malaysia’s green energy goals and long-term climate targets. “If we are to operate big centres such as this, we must ensure they are in line with green energy so that we can achieve carbon neutrality. “It is a long-term plan. It cannot be done overnight.” Malaysia has emerged as Southeast Asia’s leading data centre

FRIDAY | FEB 13, 2026 3 Govt working on super app process THE government is moving towards consolidating its digital services under a single platform, but the creation of a full-fledged “government super app”will be a gradual process, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo told the Dewan Rakyat yesterday. Responding to a question from Bakri MP Tan Hong Pin on plans to unify all government services under one application, Gobind said the Digital Ministry has developed MyGov Malaysia, an integrated platform that consolidates information and services from multiple government agencies. The platform also incorporates the national digital identity system, MyDigital ID, allowing users to securely access multiple services with a single login. Gobind said more than 30 new government service applications will be integrated into MyGov this year. “MyGov Malaysia currently provides 44 services across 16 government agencies and we are prioritising high-impact services frequently used by the public such as applications and payment functions.” He stressed that MyGov would not immediately replace existing applications such as MySejahtera or MyJPJ but would gradually consolidate them based on usage patterns and public needs. On the prospect of merging all applications into a single platform, Gobind acknowledged that integration would take time, citing the complexity of combining widely used systems. “We need to ensure continuity for existing services while developing a platform where all new and integrated apps can function seamlessly.” Alor Setar MP Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden raised security concerns noting that while unifying apps may improve convenience, it also concentrates risk. Gobind assured lawmakers that security remains a top priority, adding that the Digital National Department has clear guidelines and that the Digital Ministry is ensuring a legal framework is in place to protect data downloaded from government platforms. “The Cyber Security Act 2024 and the updated Personal Data and Data Sharing Act provide robust safeguards for public data,” he said. On the difference between MyGov and other government platforms such as the Central Database Hub (Padu), Gobind said MyGov focuses on service delivery by bringing services from all ministries into a single platform, while other applications serve specific initiatives or data functions. He reiterated that while full integration would take time, the government’s ultimate goal is to provide Malaysians with a single platform to access government services conveniently and securely. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia digital economy expert Dr Stephanie H.W. Chuah said users are already juggling multiple apps with overlapping functions, adding that successful integration depends as much on governance as on technology. UKM digitalisation and IR4.0 specialist Prof Dr Ahmad Kamal Ariffin cautioned that efforts to simplify governance have at times blurred the line between “convenience and confusion”. Universiti Teknologi Mara organisational communication specialist Dr Tengku Elena Tengku Mahamad said effective communication would be critical to the success of MyGov Malaysia, warning that the public could become confused or resistant if multiple apps are introduced without clear explanations of how they are linked. “Communication must therefore be simple, direct and consistent, using inclusive strategies such as visuals, multilingual messaging and reassurances that offline services will remain available. Tutorials, community training and rural help-desks can further support adoption. “To build public confidence, old and new apps should run in parallel, real user experiences should be highlighted and feedback should be addressed promptly.”

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL, QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI AND FAIZ RUZMAN

Tax refund payout of RM22.45b hits five-year high

He added that RM7.5 billion was refunded in December 2025 alone, surpassing Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s initial commitment of RM4 billion announced on Dec 6 last year. All refundable excess tax cases for YA 2022 and earlier years were fully

YA 2023 cases in the first quarter of this year, we are confident they will be finalised sooner, by February,” he said, adding that as of Feb 10, RM5.4 billion in refunds across 38,629 cases had already been paid. He was responding to Jimmy Puah Wee Tse (PH-Tebrau), who asked

o Govt vows to clear all arrears by month end, ahead of schedule, says finance minister II

AT THE DEWAN RAKYAT

resolved last year, he noted. To ensure timely refunds, the government has prioritised cases based on the age of arrears, adopted a “first-in, first-out” approach, ensured full settlement for individual taxpayers and prioritised small and medium enterprises facing cash flow constraints. “The government remains committed to implementing excess tax refunds fully, fairly, transparently and equitably, taking into account the interests of all taxpayers. “These initiatives demonstrate our ongoing efforts to enhance tax administration efficiency and safeguard taxpayers’ rights, consistent with the broader fiscal reform agenda,” he said.

about the total excess tax refunds disbursed, the outstanding balance and the timeline for pending payments. Amir Hamzah said refunds for YA 2024 are expected to be fully settled before year-end, with payments continuing to all taxpayers, particularly individuals, regardless of the age of the case. “The total tax refunds disbursed in 2025 reached RM22.45 billion, marking the highest amount in five years. Over the three-year period from 2023 to 2025, the government paid out RM56 billion in refunds, a 50% increase compared with RM37 billion during 2020– 2022,” he said.

KUALA LUMPUR: The government disbursed a record RM22.45 billion in tax refunds last year, the highest in five years, as Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan vowed to clear all outstanding refunds for the Year of Assessment (YA) 2023 ahead of schedule. Speaking in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday, Amir Hamzah said the government had inherited a sizeable backlog of tax refund arrears but remained committed to resolving the cases efficiently and systematically. “Although we initially pledged to complete

Anti-bullying measures tightened with 2,889 cases reported: Minister A TOTAL of 2,889 bullying cases were reported in 2025, including 740 in primary schools and 2,149 in secondary schools, according to the Education Ministry.

Its minister Fadhlina Sidek said the ministry is committed to taking firm, comprehensive and continuous action to ensure the safety, welfare and wellbeing of all students. “We will not compromise on any form of bullying misconduct in educational institutions. “Efforts to eradicate bullying are long-term and continuous, and require the commitment of all parties to ensure that the school ecosystem remains safe and conducive,” she said in a written reply to the House. Additionally, Fadhlina said the Safe School concept stipulates the need to establish a stable physical, social and emotional environment for the entire school community. “This is in line with the implementation of the ministry’s comprehensive and immediate action plan, including safety inspections of schools by the Special Committee on Safety Reform in Educational Institutions, which was established to address issues related to the safety and wellbeing of the school community.” She said nationwide safety audits are conducted to ensure that safety issues are addressed effectively and that all school standard operating procedures (SOP) are complied with. Fadhlina said as of Nov 19 last year, a total of 1,758 schools have been involved in safety audits. “The ministry has also reviewed the SOP for bullying misconduct and sexual misconduct and implemented reforms to the bullying complaints system to protect the identities of complainants and witnesses. “The installation of CCTV and the strengthening of mental health and psychosocial support programmes have been enhanced through the new placement of 523 guidance and counselling teachers in schools nationwide in 2025.” Fadhlina said the ministry had allocated RM3 million for the installation of CCTV in 200 hostels to monitor high-risk areas and this project was fully completed in November last year. She highlighted that for this year the ministry has approved an additional allocation of RM5 million for the installation of CCTV in another 333 residential schools. “Starting this year, the ministry will further strengthen supervision through the

Fadhlina says efforts to eradicate bullying are long-term and continuous, and require the commitment of all parties to ensure that the school ecosystem is safe and conducive. – AI GENERATED IMAGE BY SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN

Communications Ministry and the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry, as well as through a whole-of-society approach involving Parent-Teacher Associations, Parent, Community and Private Sector Involvement and NGOs. “These efforts are carried out intensively and on an ongoing basis, with strengthened cooperation across all state education departments and district education offices to ensure practical and efficient implementation in all 10,245 schools nationwide.” “We remain committed to ensuring that every child in the country has the right to be in a safe, secure and harmonious school ecosystem so that they may experience quality learning,” said Fadhlina.

appointment of 600 hostel assistant wardens to assist with monitoring during night hours and provide additional support to schools in managing pupil safety.” Fadhlina also said the ministry works with the police through school liaison officers to conduct regular school visits and review complaints submitted via pupils’ complaint boxes. She said as a forward-looking measure, the ministry has implemented immediate reforms to existing systems and mechanisms, strengthened the Safe School framework and enhanced ongoing educational programmes. “These initiatives are implemented through cross-ministerial collaboration, particularly with the Health Ministry, Home Ministry,

FRIDAY | FEB 13, 2026

4

Fractures significantly widening within Bersatu

Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

KUALA LUMPUR: The potential expulsion of deputy president Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin from Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) could significantly weaken the party and destabilise the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition, political analysts said. Nusantara Academy for Strategic Research senior fellow Dr Azmi Hassan said the impact of such a move would be substantial, given Hamzah’s standing within the party and among its grassroots supporters. “The dismissal, or even the perception of a dismissal, could have a deep impact because Hamzah has his own followers and supporters within Bersatu.” In contrast, leaders aligned with party president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin do not have as many supporters at the grassroots level, he claimed. He also said if Hamzah is expelled, it could trigger a wave of exits from Bersatu, particularly among MPs loyal to him, with rumours circulating that as many as 15 MPs could follow suit should he leave the party. However, Azmi said the anti-party hopping law may complicate immediate realignment. He added that as elected representatives are restricted from switching parties without risking their seats, Hamzah and his allies could instead choose to remain as independent MPs while lending support to another political bloc.

o Move to expel deputy president expected to trigger wave of exits from party: Academic

Afif also said previous disciplinary actions, including the suspension and expulsion of leaders such as Tasek Gelugor MP Datuk Wan Saiful Wan Jan and others, were taken after they were found to have breached party rules. “As an example, there were admissions of efforts to gather statutory declarations to replace the president and continuous public attacks against the party leadership. No political party could allow that to continue unchecked.” Afif said no organisation would tolerate individuals who constantly undermine its leadership. “If an employee goes to work every day just to criticise the company and its boss, do you think the company would take no action? The same principle applies here. We are not running a chess club. We are running a political party that has formed the government and produced two prime Several senior leaders and division chiefs have cited what they described as weak crisis management, questionable use of disciplinary mechanisms and strategic miscalculations that could fracture PN and erode support for the Malay-based party in future elections. Chief among them is Bersatu vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Ronald figure with support from key party leaders, adding that if his faction were to leave, Bersatu could be left primarily with Muhyiddin loyalists. She drew comparisons with previous splits, including when Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad left Bersatu, taking prominent leaders such as Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir, Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman and Dr Maszlee Malik with him. However, she also said the optics surrounding Hamzah’s potential expulsion would be different. “He would be seen as being ‘oppressed’ and he could use that leverage as someone portrayed as fighting to save Bersatu but ultimately dismissed,” she said, likening it to Muhyiddin’s criticism of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak when he was still in Umno, which strengthened his image at the time. Syaza added that Bersatu risks being increasingly perceived as a political vehicle centred on Muhyiddin if dissenting leaders are

He said the question would then be which coalition they choose to support. Regardless of the immediate alignment, Azmi believes the damage to Bersatu would be inevitable as a mass exit by Hamzah’s supporters would expose internal leadership problems and further weaken the party. He also suggested that PAS, Bersatu’s key partner in PN, may reconsider its position if the crisis deepens as the issue could have an impact on the very existence of the Opposition bloc and PAS would not likely want to be dragged into internal problems that could weaken the party. Sharing similar concerns, International Islamic University Malaysia political science associate professor Dr Syaza Shukri said Bersatu would face both numerical and narrative setbacks if Hamzah is removed. She said Hamzah is not only the Opposition leader but also a senior

Syaza said Bersatu risks being increasingly perceived as a political vehicle centred on Muhyiddin if dissenting leaders are pushed out. – SUNPIC

when PN commands significant Malay backing. On claims that Bersatu secretary general Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali is acting as an intermediary between Muhyiddin and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Afif said such narratives were speculative and unsupported by evidence. “These are stories being circulated to create distrust. There is no mandate from the party for any cooperation with PH.” As internal disputes continue to unfold, Afif maintained that Bersatu remains institutionally strong and capable of managing its affairs. “We are a party with experience in governance. We understand the responsibility that comes with that. Whatever differences exist, they must be resolved according to the party’s constitution and principles.” – By Ikhwan Zulkaflee a sense of uncertainty among grassroots members, leaving the party appearing “directionless”. Last Tuesday, 14 Bersatu division chiefs from Johor publicly declared loss of confidence in Muhyiddin’s leadership, contending that the disciplinary measures were driven more by internal power struggles than constructive debate. Tanjung Piai Bersatu division chief Musa Khamis said the manner in which the dispute has been handled has weakened trust within Bersatu and strained relations with coalition partners. – By Ikhwan Zulkaflee appear party’s disciplinary board yesterday to assist in an investigation into his alleged involvement in the chaos during the annual general assembly and alleged attacks on the party president. However, Hamzah is currently abroad and notified the disciplinary board that he could not attend the session. before the

pushed out. At the same time, she pointed out that Muhyiddin has been less visible and less outspoken than Hamzah in criticising the current Madani government. Speculation has intensified that Hamzah, who has been called up to face the Bersatu Disciplinary Board, would be expelled from the party. The Larut MP was supposed to

Alleged reluctance to unite Malay parties ‘deepens rift’ PETALING JAYA: Deepening divisions within Bersatu are being linked to Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s alleged reluctance to pursue the unification of Malay-based political parties, party sources said. However, the source claimed Muhyiddin does not share that objective and is perceived by some members as being more open to engagement with Pakatan Harapan (PH). reportedly unsettled segments of the party. theSun has sought to corroborate the claims with a separate party source, who independently supported the allegations. Kiandee, who urged Muhyiddin to relinquish the presidency for the sake of party unity.

ministers,” he said, referring to Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Muhyiddin. Addressing allegations that Muhyiddin is leaning towards PH, Afif described such claims as “absurd and without basis”. “Why would we support PH when many Malays are dissatisfied with PH? If Tan Sri was desperate to become prime minister at any cost, he could have made different political choices. But that is not the case.” He also clarified that Bersatu’s stance on Malay unity does not necessarily mean merging with Umno or aligning with its leadership. “For us in PN, Malay unity means uniting Malay voters behind PN. We already enjoy strong Malay support. It is not about joining Umno. If anything, those who disagree with Umno’s current direction should support PN.” He added that calls for PN to join Umno lack a clear basis, especially He said the leadership has failed to contain an internal crisis that now threatens cohesion at multiple levels. He also questioned whether recent disciplinary actions were intended to strengthen party institutions or consolidate leadership control, adding that such moves risk damaging Bersatu’s credibility and distracting it from its broader political role. He also said efforts perceived as silencing dissent have contributed to

“There is a growing perception that Tan Sri is leaning towards PH. That is not the direction many in the party support.” The source further alleged that Bersatu secretary-general Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali has been acting as an intermediary between Muhyiddin and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, a claim that has

A senior party source, speaking to theSun on condition of anonymity, said support is growing within Bersatu for deputy president Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin’s proposal to consolidate Malay parties under a common platform. “At the grassroots level, many of us want to see Malay parties united. That has long been the aspiration.”

Supreme council member rejects claims against Muhyiddin PETALING JAYA: “Bersatu is a party that has produced two prime ministers. Surely we know how to manage our own party.” associating with groups involved in clandestine alignments and

movements that could damage the party’s image and undermine the institution of the president, action has to be taken,” he told theSun. He explained that after efforts by the president and the party’s top leadership to resolve the matter failed to reach a resolution, the issue was referred to the party’s disciplinary board. He said Muhyiddin does not have unilateral power to dismiss or punish members, as such authority lies solely with the disciplinary board, which operates independently of the supreme council and top leadership. “The president cannot simply sack anyone. Only the disciplinary board could take action, whether suspension or expulsion. The board is independent and must act impartially. It cannot practise favouritism.”

That was the response from Bersatu supreme council member Dr Afif Bahardin amid allegations that party president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin is resisting efforts to unite Malay-based political parties and is allegedly leaning towards PH. Afif dismissed claims that Muhyiddin does not want Malay unity as baseless and politically motivated, saying the issue at hand is strictly a matter of party discipline and adherence to the party constitution. He added that Bersatu’s current internal tensions have nothing to do with Malay unity but are instead centred on disciplinary concerns involving certain leaders. “This is as simple as a disciplinary issue within the party. “When there are leaders seen

FRIDAY | FEB 13, 2026

5 Selangor to halt pig farming in stages

o Royal directive prompts full shift to imported pork supply, with environmental and social harmony considerations

discharge of manure and waste. He suggested the government consider granting licences for pork import to meet demand among non-Muslims, particularly the Chinese community in Selangor. Following the decision, the Sarawak government indicated it is ready to scale up exports of live pigs to Selangor.

harmony among Selangor’s diverse communities. Amirudin reiterated the decision should end ongoing debate on pig farming and prevent actions that could create mistrust among the state’s multi-ethnic and multi religious population. Last Tuesday, the Sultan of Selangor made clear he does not consent to or approve pig farming in any district within the state. In a statement issued through the Selangor Royal Office, His Royal Highness said pig farming could cause air pollution from foul odours and contaminate rivers through the

farms will be closed in stages with the cooperation of the Selangor Veterinary Department. “Currently, about 70% of pork demand among non-Muslims in Selangor is met through imports from other states. “After the decision, all local pork supply will be sourced entirely through imports, with licensing and approvals referred to the federal government as per its jurisdiction.” The move is aimed at addressing public concerns over environmental impact, including drainage issues and odour pollution, while maintaining

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the state government respects the Sultan’s wishes. Since January, authorities have halted the issuance of new pig farming licences and begun clearing existing farms in Tanjong Sepat. He added that all existing pig

Sarawak Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom said the state has been exporting live pigs to Selangor since 2025 and remains open to supplying other states. Overhaul risks driving commuters back to private cars PETALING JAYA: Klang Valley drivers may soon be back in the driver’s seat as recent bus route changes risk pushing commuters from public transport back to private cars, experts said. While it may be too early to directly attribute worsening traffic to the restructuring, Universiti Putra Malaysia Road Safety Research Centre head Assoc Prof Dr Law Teik Hua said the timing has understandably drawn attention. “Theoretically, restructuring trunk bus routes, especially long and direct services, can influence commuter behaviour,” he said. Trunk routes are the backbone of urban public transport, providing commuters with one-seat rides along fixed and predictable corridors. Law explained that when these routes are changed, public transport could become less convenient, uncertain and more time-consuming. “In areas like the Klang Valley, where private vehicle use is already widespread, commuters may be more inclined to switch back to cars,” he added. However, he stressed congestion is complex and cannot yet be linked solely to the changes to bus routes. “Traffic is influenced by many factors, including school schedules, weather, festive seasons, road works and the increasing number of vehicles on the road,” he said. Key routes such as 506 (Putrajaya Sentral– Bandar Utama) and 708 (Klang–Sunway Pyramid), which connect major residential and employment hubs, could see accessibility affected. “Switching to rail and on-demand modes makes journeys more transfer-dependent. “Integration between modes could help but only if transfer times are short, service frequencies are high and on-demand options are reliable. “If not, people will be discouraged from using public transport.” To reduce disruption, he recommended immediate attention be given to operational reliability and communication. In the short term, monitoring feeder service loads in real time would allow timely adjustments and help prevent overcrowding. Temporary deployment of additional buses during peak hours should also be considered. In the medium term, integration must go beyond route changes. “This means improving transfer infrastructure and synchronisation between services. “If the restructured network is faster, more reliable and cost-effective, fewer people will switch to private vehicles. But if mismanaged, it risks deepening car dependence in the Klang Valley.”– by Harith Kamal

PETALING JAYA: Selangor will stop issuing pig farming licences and gradually shut down existing farms following a directive from Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah. In a statement, Selangor Menteri

Klang Valley gridlock sparks flak over bus route cuts PETALING JAYA: Commuters in the Klang Valley are facing unprecedented traffic snarls, with journeys taking hours longer than usual, amid public outrage over Prasarana’s latest round of bus route cuts.

While no official data has confirmed a direct link, social media users and daily commuters have blamed the move for worsening congestion. On Feb 6, Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd – a subsidiary of Prasarana – announced that 10 more Rapid KL routes would be restructured from Feb 14 as part of the second phase of its network rationalisation exercise. This followed the removal of 19 routes last month. Among the services affected are long-distance trunk routes such as 506 (Putrajaya Sentral– Bandar Utama) and 708 (Klang–Sunway Pyramid). Rapid Bus said the changes are aimed at improving operational efficiency, adding that passengers can still rely on alternatives such as the MRT, LRT, feeder buses and Rapid KL On-Demand. Acting CEO Ku Jamil Zakaria described the move as a data-driven approach targeting low-demand routes to build a “smarter, more resilient” public transport system. However, the backlash has been swift. On social media platform X, public transport critic @ErnestOnPT highlighted that the latest cuts bring the total number of removed routes to 29 in just a few weeks. Many said eliminating fixed routes linking major townships leaves commuters with alternatives that are neither equivalent nor seamless. Critics also questioned the decision to cut major Rapid KL routes such as 506, which connects Putrajaya and Bandar Utama, and 708, linking Klang and Sunway Pyramid, saying that Greater Kuala Lumpur needs more reliable fixed bus links, not fewer. Another user @himaboy_im described Route 506 as critical, adding that it is one of the few direct connections between Petaling Jaya, Puchong and Putrajaya. “There are now no connections from Puchong to PJ. It was not perfect, with a lot of quirks, but the alternatives are not even close. “Riders will now take a car at the busy Lebuhraya Damansara–Puchong intersection or a

Critics questioned the decision to cut major Rapid KL routes, saying that Greater Kuala Lumpur needs more reliable fixed bus links, not fewer. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

Zamariah Zarifah Aris led the prosecution. Defence counsel Kitson Foong indicated his client understands the charge and will contest it. “The court has fixed March 6 for the next case management, during which trial dates will be set,” he added. Foong added that the trial is expected to last about 14 days in July, with only defence and prosecution teams allowed in court to prevent delays. – by Qirana Nabilla Mohd Rashidi New Year traffic. Another motorist, Shahrifah Munira Mohd Syukor, 27, said her usual journey from PJ to Setapak typically takes about one hour and 15 minutes. “Yesterday, it took me two and a half hours, almost double the usual time. Even taking my usual shortcuts didn’t help. Traffic was terrible everywhere,” she said. While the cause cannot be conclusively linked to the bus rationalisation exercise, public discussion increasingly frames it as a key factor. theSun has reached out to Prasarana for further comment on the restructuring phase and its expected duration. At press time, no response had been received. – by Harith Kamal

longer route using the LRT,” the user wrote. Rail commuters are also feeling the strain. Aziah, who declined to provide her full name, travels from Kelana Jaya to Kuala Lumpur for work and said trains have been overcrowded over the past week. “Maybe it’s linked to the bus cuts, but even the trains can’t accommodate so many people. I had to wait for two or three trains before I could get on one,” she said. Road users reported similar frustration. Graphic designer Johan Kammaruddin, 28, from Subang Jaya, said his commute to Petaling Jaya recently stretched to two hours, six times longer than usual, although he noted some congestion may also be linked to pre-Chinese

Teen pleads not guilty to murder of schoolmate PETALING JAYA: A 15-year-old male student pleaded not guilty yesterday to murdering his 16-year-old schoolmate in a stabbing incident at a Bandar Utama secondary school last October. According to the charge, the student allegedly stabbed a Form Three

schoolmate in the girls’ toilet at the national secondary school between 9.20am and 9.35am on Oct 14 last year. The offence is punishable under Section 302 of the Penal Code, which carries the death penalty or if not imposed, life imprisonment of between 30 and 40 years and up to 12 strokes of the cane. DPPs Aqharie Durranie Aziz and

The accused, then in a Form One transitional class, entered his plea in Mandarin before Judge Adlin Abdul Majid at the Shah Alam High Court. Proceedings were held in camera, with only the teenager’s family permitted as the case involves a juvenile.

FRIDAY | FEB 13, 2026

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Galloping gala for visitors to Berjaya Times Square

Standing out in hanfu attire GUA MUSANG: Traditional Chinese attires such as the samfu and cheongsam have long symbolised Chinese New Year festivities, but a young man here is changing the narrative, spending nearly RM10,000 to don a hanfu and honour his ancestral roots. With a taste for the unique, 33-year-old Chin Qi Yao from Kampung Batu Papan 2 has been celebrating Chinese New Year in hanfu for the past decade, despite the abundance of modern clothing styles. According to Chin, hanfu , with a history spanning over 2,000 years, was the national attire of the Han ethnic group and the daily clothing of dynasties such as Tang, Song and Ming. “You rarely see this kind of traditional clothing in local shops, so I get mine online. Hanfu isn’t just red. It comes in a variety of designs, patterns and colours, which is why I love wearing it on the first day of Chinese New Year. “Unlike samfu , hanfu is worn in two or three layers and tied with strings instead of buttons. I have over 10 hanfu outfits, with some costing about RM500 each, and I don’t mind spending whatever it takes,” he said when met by Bernama recently. Chin said while hanfu might resemble a Japanese kimono or a Korean hanbok at first glance, its design is entirely different, being looser and consisting of separate upper and lower garments. “ Hanfu is traditional Chinese clothing for both men and women, with long sleeves that are loose and wide, giving the arms an open, flowing look. “The way this attire is made carries its own meaning. The wider the sleeves, the more ‘ong’ it represents, which is why you’ll see hanfu with different sleeve widths based on individual preference.” Chin said the young generation often overlook the uniqueness of hanfu , viewing it as old-fashioned and disconnected from current trends. “Not many people like hanfu because they see it as old-fashioned and prefer modern designs that are easier to find and simpler. “ Hanfu is actually quite practical and perfect for festivals and other Chinese cultural events. “I just hope young people don’t lose touch with the clothing that reflects our culture,” he added. Chin, who often posts pictures of himself in hanfu on social media, said it was his way of raising awareness about the traditional garment.

KUALA LUMPUR: Inspired by Chinese aesthetics and the noble spirit of the horse, the ground floor concourse area at Berjaya Times Square Kuala Lumpur (BTSKL) has been transformed into an imperial palace. It has been adorned with auspicious red and gold hues, intricate oriental motifs and regal architectural elements in conjunction with the Lunar New Year of the Horse. From Jan 23 to March 3, the “Palace of Abundant Prosperity” display invites visitors to embark on a festive journey filled with meaningful traditions. At the heart of the decoration stands the majestic golden horse, complemented by two regal golden dragons, symbolising resilience and harmony and ushering in renewed hope, positive beginnings and a prosperous year ahead. Reflecting the grandeur of an emperor’s court, visitors can immerse in a festive atmosphere that celebrates strength, prosperity and unity. Every weekend, the concourse area will burst into a vibrant stage, with Chinese cultural dance and instrumental performances, including the Double Lion Blessing presentation, accompanied by the 0 CNY instrumental music performance - Jan 24 & Feb 1 at 3pm, Feb 7, Feb 14, Feb 18 at 4pm; 0 Double Lion Blessing performance - Jan 25, Feb 7, Feb 14, Feb 17, Feb 18 at 3pm; 0 CNY live band showcase - Jan 25 & Feb 17 at 4pm, Jan 31, Feb 8, Feb 15 at 3pm; o ‘Palace of Abundant Prosperity’ display celebrates Chinese New Year of the Horse in imperial style Ű BY ANDREW SAGAYAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com presence of the God of Prosperity. The list of events are as follows:

To enhance the festive experience, visitors will be able to rent imperial costumes and pose for photos among the colourful displays. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

0 God of Prosperity walkabout - Jan 25, Feb 17 & Feb 18 at 4pm, Feb 8 & Feb 15 at 3pm; and 0 Chinese dance performance - Jan 25, Jan 31, Feb 1, Feb 8, Feb 15 at 5pm. To further elevate the festive shopping experience, BTSKL will also be offering Chinese New Year redemption programmes as follows: 0 Tier 1 (exclusive Golden Horse ang pow packets) with minimum spend of RM98 in no more than two same-day receipts; 0 Tier 2 (Auspicious Reward) with minimum spend of RM218 in no more than four same-day receipts to redeem a RM50 cash voucher; and 0 Tier 3 (Prosperi-Tea cup set) with minimum spend of RM288 in no more than five same-day receipts to redeem a tea cup set with leather bag. All redemptions are on a first-come, first served basis, while stocks last, with terms and conditions applicable. For more information, please visit the information counter located at

the visit www.berjayatimessquarekl.com or follow @BerjayaTimesSquareKL on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. BTSKL is acknowledged as Malaysia’s largest inner city shopping and leisure mall, with a gross built-up area of 7.5 million square feet on a 10-acre site. It houses the Berjaya Times Square Theme Park, Malaysia’s largest indoor theme park which showcases 13 major rides and other fun-tastic attractions, including Go-Kart BTSKL at the B3 parking lot. It is also home to one of the biggest bowling centers in the country – Ampang Superbowl. BTSKL is easily accessible via public transport, with the convenience of the KL Monorail stopping right at its doorstep and the RapidKL station just a five-minute walk away. A newly-launched facility, the e-Hailing Lounge, is located on the ground floor and is furnished with a seating area, air conditioning and device charging stations. ground floor of BTSKL,

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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Bangladesh votes in polls after deadly uprising

At least 31 killed in Madagascar cyclone ANTANANARIVO: A cyclone has killed at least 31 individuals and caused severe devastation in Madagascar, German Press Agency reported on Wednesday, citing local authorities. Several individuals are missing and at least 36 were injured when Cyclone Gezani , which reached the mainland on Tuesday evening, swept across the island at speeds of up to 270kph, the National Office for Risk Management and Civil Protection said. The full extent of the destruction could not yet be determined but it is estimated that more than 250,000 individuals have been affected, it said. By morning, the average wind speed had dropped to around 110kph. The northeastern port city of Toamasina, Madagascar’s second largest city, was particularly badly hit by the heavy gusts of wind and torrential rain. Some 90% of all houses there were damaged, according to authorities of the city that is home to half a million people. The streets were blocked by fallen trees, electricity pylons and debris. A telecommunications network severely disrupted by the storm and an interrupted power supply hampered rescue efforts. In the Atsinanana region where Toamasina is located, around 80% of infrastructure was destroyed. Some 6,000 individuals have been left homeless there, initial counts say. The island nation of around 30 million inhabitants, located in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Mozambique, has frequently been roiled by severe tropical storms. Tropical Storm Freddy devastated Madagascar as well as Mozambique and Malawi on the mainland about three years ago and more than 500 individuals died. – Bernama-dpa Kim Jong Un sets daughter as likely heir SEOUL: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has entrenched his daughter as heir apparent ahead of a landmark party conference, a South Korean lawmaker said yesterday after a briefing from Seoul’s main intelligence agency. The Kim family has ruled North Korea with an iron grip for decades and a cult of personality surrounding their “Paektu bloodline” dominates daily life in the isolated country. Kim’s teenage daughter Ju Ae has long been seen as the next in line, a perception stoked by a string of recent high-profile outings. South Korea’s National Intelligence Service said Ju Ae has been clearly “designated as a successor”, said lawmaker Lee Seong-kweun after a parliamentary briefing with the spy agency. The assessment was made “taking into account a range of circumstances, including her increasingly prominent public presence at official events”, he said. South Korea’s spy agency said last year Ju Ae appeared to be the next in line after she accompanied Kim on a high-profile visit to Beijing. Photos published ahead of a rare political congress in North Korea this month cemented that perception. State media showed Ju Ae in January paying respects alongside her father at the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, where the bodies of state founder Kim Il Sung and second-generation ruler Kim Jong Il lie in state. Pyongyang is due to hold a landmark party congress at the end of this month, its biggest political event, during which it is expected to lay out its foreign policy, war planning and nuclear ambitions for the next five years. The National Intelligence Service said it would closely monitor Ju Ae’s attendance and the level of protocol accorded to her. Analysts have suggested that she could be elected first secretary of the Central Committee, the second most powerful position in North Korea’s ruling Workers’ Party. – AFP

DHAKA: Bangladesh voted yesterday in its first election since a deadly 2024 uprising, as parties crushed under Sheikh Hasina’s rule return to the fray with a powerful political heir facing an Islamist-led coalition. Key party leaders have raised fears of threats or “conspiracies” to derail the vote. More than 300,000 soldiers and police were deployed countrywide, with United Nations experts warning ahead of voting of “growing intolerance, threats and attacks”, and a “tsunami of disinformation”, especially targeting millions of young first-time voters. “This was my first vote. I hope after everything we went through the last few years, now is the time for something positive,” said Dhaka City College student Shithi Goswami, 21. Leading prime ministerial hopeful Tarique Rahman, 60, is confident his Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) can regain power, but he faces a stiff challenge from the Muslim-majority country’s largest Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami. Jamaat chief Shafiqur Rahman, 67, has mounted a disciplined grassroots campaign and if victorious, the former political prisoner o ‘I hope after everything we went through, now is time for something positive’

absentia for crimes against humanity for the bloody crackdown on protesters during her final months in power, and remains in hiding in India. Yunus has championed a democratic reform charter to overhaul what he called a “completely broken” system of government and prevent a return to one-party rule. The 127 million voters will also decide in a referendum whether to endorse proposals for prime-ministerial term limits, a new upper house of Parliament, stronger presidential powers and greater judicial independence. Voters will elect 300 lawmakers directly, with a further 50 women chosen from party lists. Counting by hand begins after they close at 4.30pm (1030 GMT). “The crucial test for Bangladesh will be to ensure the election is conducted fairly and impartially, and for all parties to accept the result,” said Crisis Group analyst Thomas Kean. The next government will inherit a battered economy in the world’s second-largest garment exporter, as well as delicate relations with India. Rahman, whose late parents led the country, told AFP ahead of the vote that his first priority, if elected, would be restoring security and stability. Meanwhile, Yunus urged citizens to honour the “sacrifice” of the 2024 uprising. “Please dedicate yourselves to building a new, just and inclusive Bangladesh.” – AFP

could lead the first Islamist-led government in constitutionally secular Bangladesh. The Islamist party, which campaigned on a platform of justice and ending corruption, senses its biggest opportunity in decades, and Rahman said his party “will do whatever is required” to ensure a fair result. Opinion polls vary widely, although most give BNP the lead, with some suggesting a knife-edge race. Police records show that five individuals were killed and more than 600 injured in political clashes during campaigning. Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin said the vote was going “smoothly in a free and fair manner”, but warned of a flood of disinformation, especially AI-generated content “coming from across the border”. He did not give further details but relations with neighbouring India have soured since the 2024 uprising. Interim leader Muhammad Yunus, who will step down once the new government takes power, called the vote “far-reaching”. “It will determine the future direction of the country, the character of its democracy, its durability and the fate of the next generation.” The 85-year-old Nobel Peace Prize winner has led the South Asian nation since Hasina’s 15-year rule ended with her ouster in August 2024. His administration has barred her Awami League from contesting the polls. Hasina, 78, was sentenced to death in

Citizens showing their voter slips as they wait in queue to cast their ballots at a polling station in Dhaka yesterday. – AFPPIC

Woman killed in Thai school shooting BANGKOK: A woman died yesterday in southern Thailand after a gunman opened fire at the school where she was director, local police told AFP. the condition of anonymity. The school shared its “deepest condolences on the passing of Sasiphat Sinsamosorn” in a Facebook post.

the shooting, the Public Health Ministry said. A second child suffered an ankle injury after they “fell from a height”, it added. Thailand has one of the highest rates of gun ownership in the region, with around 10 million firearms estimated to be in circulation, one for every seven inhabitants. Past promises of tightening gun laws have not prevented repeated tragedies. In 2022, an ex-policeman armed with a gun and knife stormed into a nursery in the country’s north and murdered 24 children and 12 adults, one of Thailand’s deadliest massacres. – AFP

“Although we have lost her, the memories and kindness she left behind will forever remain in our hearts.“ A police officer in the city’s Thung Lung community also confirmed that the school director had died. A representative at the hospital declined to comment, citing privacy regulations. A 14-year-old girl was also hospitalised with gunshot wounds and underwent surgery after

Police shot and arrested the suspect, who local media identified as an 18-year-old man, on Wednesday after he entered the Phatong Prathan Khiriwat School with a gun, authorities said, adding that several shots were fired. “The school director passed away at 3am in the Hat Yai hospital after being sent for surgery,“ an officer in the city of Hat Yai said. “The shooter was also in this hospital for treatment,“ the policeman added, speaking on