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No. 9078 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

Starting an EPF account early is relevant today as many teenagers are already earning income through e-commerce and the gig economy. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

Based on EPF dividend rates history, annual deposits of RM50,000 starting at minimum eligible age of 14 would snowball into RM8.25 million by age 55. Sound savings

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INSIDE

Do not speculate, wait for official announcement on Aidilfitri date, says Perak Mufti Dept.

Police to thoroughly investigate all aspects of alleged plot to topple govt.

Diplomatic solution to nuclear issue blown to bits after US, Israel launch strikes against Iran.

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NATIONAL 2 theSun on Sunday MAR 1, 2026

EPF dividend of 6.15% draws mixed reactions

‘Credit payout into Account 3’ PETALING JAYA: Arau MP Datuk Seri Dr Shahidan Kassim has renewed his proposal for the 2025 Employees Provident Fund (EPF) dividend to be credited into Account 3, allowing members in need to access the funds more directly. In a post on his Facebook page, the PAS lawmaker said he would formally appeal to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the Prime Minister’s Department to reconsider the mechanism of the dividend distribution. Shahidan said it would enable members requiring short-term liquidity, particularly amid rising living costs, to benefit more directly from the dividend payout without dismantling the broader retirement savings. As an additional measure, Shahidan suggested that the government consider implementing a targeted and conditional “Special Aidilfitri Withdrawal” for contributors genuinely affected by cost-of living pressures. He added that he would submit a motion under Standing Order 18(1) on Monday to allow the matter to be formally deliberated in Parliament. – By Ikhwan Zulkaflee PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed concern over Israeli strikes on Iran and the related military action by the United States, urging an immediate halt to hostilities and a return to diplomatic talks. In a statement, Anwar said Israel’s initiation of the strikes was a “vile attempt” to derail ongoing negotiations and to draw other nations into a conflict that could spiral beyond control. “The Israeli strikes on Iran, and the American military action that accompanied them, bring the Middle East to the edge of catastrophe. “An immediate and unconditional cessation of hostilities is imperative,” he said in a statement posted on Facebook yesterday. Anwar urged the US and Iran to seek a diplomatic solution rather than pursue further escalation, while calling on the international community to respond with urgency and without double standards. “My concern at this time is the safety of Malaysians in Iran and elsewhere in the region,” he said, adding that he would be engaging regional partners to determine the next steps. Anwar reiterated that diplomacy, not military escalation, remains the only viable path to preventing a wider and potentially uncontrollable regional crisis. PM criticises Israeli, US strikes on Iran

While some feel rate declared does not reflect nation’s economic growth, others see it as competitive, considering current global headwinds

retirement planning, such stability matters.” Similarly, UMPSA Holdings Sdn Bhd manager Farah Liyana Mohd Ghazali said she does not place too much emphasis on annual dividend fluctuations. “I’m not too fixated on the yearly dividend. EPF is more for long-term security. “Unless there’s a major drop, I will just maintain my contributions.” Cindi Loo, a communications executive in Petaling Jaya, described the rate as realistic given prevailing global headwinds. “I’m okay with the dividend. It reflects a cautious approach as we are facing an uncertain global economy. “EPF is still one of the best avenues for savings and steady financial growth. I won’t increase voluntary contributions but will maintain them.”

standpoint, Idham said marginal adjustments in dividend rates are normal for long-term pension funds whose core mandate prioritises capital preservation and sustainable returns over short-term performance maximisation. “The slight moderation likely reflects prudent positioning amid currency fluctuations, geopolitical risks and uneven global equity performance rather than any deterioration in investment capability.” Idham said with Malaysia’s inflation remaining relatively contained, real returns remain positive.– By Ikhwan Zulkaflee “EPF remains one of the most stable and trusted retirement savings institutions. I will maintain my compulsory contributions and may consider increasing voluntary contributions strategically, particularly through well performing funds under EPF-approved channels.” Loo said she is also contributing to the Skim Simpanan Pendidikan Nasional for her son’s education and maintaining a junior savings account to ensure stable growth. Muhammad Azam Suliman, a content moderator in Kuala Lumpur, said the rate fell short of expectations, particularly against the backdrop of government-declared economic growth. “But I’m still grateful that it didn’t fall below 6%.” He said he is considering withdrawing a portion of his savings to explore other investment options. Mohd Fadzli Farid, a corporate communications manager in Johor, bluntly stated that the dividend does not fully mirror Malaysia’s economic trajectory in 2025. “While the rate is only slightly lower than last year, I feel it does not completely reflect the country’s economic performance.” He pointed to the strengthening of the ringgit against the US dollar, improved investor sentiment and stronger than expected GDP growth, which surpassed earlier projections. “With stronger fundamentals, increased foreign investment inflows and better job prospects, contributors would naturally expect returns that track this positive momentum.” Nonetheless, Fadzli reaffirmed his trust in EPF as his preferred platform for retirement planning.

Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

inflationary pressures and market volatility, 6.15% is still strong.” He added that the rate reflects prudent and stable fund management. Pavithran said the dividend outcome also bolsters his confidence in EPF as a secure long-term savings vehicle. He said he is likely to maintain or increase his voluntary contributions rather than withdraw funds for alternative investments. “EPF offers relatively secure and consistent returns compared with many low-risk savings options. For

PETALING JAYA: The 6.15% dividend declared by the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) for 2025 has drawn mixed responses from contributors, with views ranging from satisfaction over stability to calls for higher returns in line with Malaysia’s economic growth. Pavithran Ravindran, an IT technologist based in Penang, sees the latest payout as competitive despite being slightly lower than last year’s 6.3%. “Given global uncertainties,

Factors resulting in slightly lower returns EPF staff Sara Hamidah Mazlen (left) and Nursyazreen Wahid Marican pointing to the dividend rate of 6.15% for 2025 for both conventional and shariah -compliant savings accounts declared yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

rate, despite being slightly lower than the previous year’s, should be viewed as a sign of institutional stability rather than underperformance. “Given the heightened external uncertainties, sustaining returns above inflation is in itself a positive sign. It means contributors’ real purchasing power is preserved,” he said.. He added that EPF’s diversified asset allocation – spanning domestic equities, fixed income instruments and a growing share of international investments – has continued to provide resilience. From a portfolio management

investment income. “Exchange rate translation losses have had a tangible impact on overall returns,” Barjoyai told theSun . He said while the local bourse registered gains in 2025, the percentage increase in share prices was less robust than in the preceding year. “The index improved, but the momentum was not as strong as before. That inevitably influenced the fund’s aggregate performance.” Universiti Teknologi Mara Malacca finance lecturer Dr Idham Razak said the dividend

PETALING JAYA: Currency movements and comparatively milder stock market gains are among the key factors that moderated EPF returns for 2025, according to an economist. Malaysia University of Science and Technology economist Prof Dr Barjoyai Bardai explained that over 45% of EPF’s portfolio is invested abroad, largely in US dollar denominated assets. He said the ringgit ’s appreciation against the US dollar reduced the value of those overseas holdings when converted into local currency, effectively trimming net

NATIONAL 3 theSun on Sunday MAR 1, 2026

Good way to develop saving habit among teenagers

PETALING JAYA: The Employees Provident Fund (EPF) announced a 6.15% dividend for 2025, slightly lower than last year’s 6.3%, for both conventional and shariah savings accounts, with total payouts of RM79.6 billion. Its CEO Ahmad Zulqarnain Onn said EPF recorded a total distributable income of RM82.7 billion for the financial year ended Dec 31, 2025, marking a 9.5% increase from RM75.5 billion PETALING Allowing Malaysians to open an Employees Provident Fund (EPF) account from as early as age 14 could reset how the next generation thinks about money – turning retirement into an early-life habit, say experts. UniKL Business School economic analyst Assoc Prof Dr Aimi Zulhazmi Abdul Rashid said the move has the potential to hardwire the habit of saving early, stressing that it would only deliver real impact if backed by meaningful financial education. He said financial literacy should begin well before the teenage years, with primary school pupils introduced early to how wealth is generated, grown, protected and eventually distributed, and not merely told to put money aside. “This scheme also sits alongside other savings options offered by government-linked investment companies such as Permodalan Nasional Berhad and Tabung Haji as well as products from private financial institutions. Financial expert Prof Datuk Dr Nik Maheran Nik Muhammad described the move as a step towards strengthening long-term financial resilience. She said it represents a shift from planning for retirement reactively to actively building wealth, which is particularly relevant today as some teenagers are already earning through the digital and gig economy. “Even modest contributions made consistently can grow substantially over time, giving young contributors a significant head start in building retirement adequacy and financial security.” Nik Maheran said if paired with proper financial education, an EPF account could help teens develop discipline, practice delayed gratification and think long-term, turning abstract financial concepts into real-life experience. “Teens should start small but remain consistent, treating EPF as untouchable long-term savings.” To encourage participation, Nik Maheran suggested that EPF could introduce low minimum contributions of RM10 to RM20, with flexible auto-debit options, allowing families to save steadily without financial strain. “Parents who co-contribute or match their children’s savings should be considered for government incentives or tax deductions to increase participation.” “Overall, this initiative should be positioned not merely as an administrative reform but also as Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com JAYA:

part of a broader national effort to cultivate a culture of early financial responsibility. “With the right education, incentives and digital tools, it could help shape a generation that values long-term wealth and financial independence.” Universiti Putra Malaysia Putra Business School associate professor Dr Ida Md Yasin said opening EPF accounts for children as young as 14 may deliver little educational value if parents are the ones funding them. “Children only learn when they save money they earn or receive themselves – even small amounts kept in an account under their own name. “If the funds come directly from parents or the EPF, they are not learning how to manage money. They simply know the money exists.” “At 14, most children are not working. So, the purpose of saving a portion of earnings in EPF does not apply. If we want to encourage financial literacy in youths, regular banks are sufficient for them to start saving and learning about money management.” Ida said parents could still contribute but early EPF accounts may not provide the intended educational value. In Malaysia, the employment of children and young persons is governed by the Children and Young Persons (Employment) Act 1966, which was updated in 2019. EPF initiative has potential to hardwire inclination early but must be backed by meaningful financial education, says expert

Under the law, children below 15 may work from the age of 13 in light duties that do not compromise their health or schooling, while young persons are defined as those aged between 15 and 17. Equities main driver of 2025 returns: CEO

contributed RM600 million, posting a 1.6% RoI. Performance for some assets was affected by foreign exchange translation as the ringgit strengthened against the US dollar.” Ahmad Zulqarnain also said the total gross investment income stood at RM79.2 billion, including unrealised mark-to-market gains and losses arising mainly from currency movements. – By QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI

representing total investment income, with an RoI of 4.3%. He said declining yields during the year enabled fund managers to realise capital gains prudently while positioning the portfolio for sustainable future returns. “The real estate and infrastructure segment recorded RM1.6 billion in income with a 4.8% RoI on a constant currency basis, while money market instruments 33% of

“However, overall returns on investment (RoI) eased to 7.9% amid global market volatility and softer domestic market conditions. “Private equity, which accounts for about 8% of equity holdings, delivered a stronger RoI of 10.5%,” he said when announcing the 2025 EPF dividends yesterday. Ahmad Zulqarnain said fixed income instruments, largely Malaysian government securities, generated RM26.3 billion,

in 2024. He said the fund’s investment assets expanded to RM1.41 trillion, up 12.8% from RM1.25 trillion previously, supported by portfolio income and net contributions amounting to RM66.5 billion. “Equities remained the main driver of returns in 2025, contributing RM50.7 billion, or 64% of total investment income, surpassing the RM49.9 billion recorded in 2024.

NATIONAL 4 theSun on Sunday MAR 1, 2026

Avoid speculation on Aidilfitri date: Mufti dept ‘Loan repayments vital for future student funding’ IPOH: Repayments to the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) are crucial to ensure continued education financing for future students, said its chairman Datuk Seri Norliza Abdul Rahim. introduced to help borrowers repay their loans based on their financial capacity. “PTPTN hopes borrowers will come forward to discuss their repayments and avoid Education Savings Scheme (Simpan SSPN) as early preparation for their children’s higher education. The objective is to shift the mindset from relying solely on loans to practising consistent savings to reduce debt after graduation. She said the government allocates RM3 billion annually to support 600,000 existing and new students. She added that the #PTPTNBolehBincang and #PTPTNSediaBantu initiatives were enforcement action,” she said at the PTPTN Imarah Ramadan event at Politeknik Ungku Omar on Friday. Norliza also said the corporation remains committed to promoting a savings culture, especially among parents, through the National “Under Simpan SSPN Prime, depositors enjoy benefits such as income tax relief of up to RM8,000 a year, free takaful coverage, matching grants, competitive

Council ramps up anti-food waste drive BUKIT MERTAJAM: The Seberang Perai City Council is intensifying efforts to curb food waste this Ramadan through a more systematic approach at all 54 bazaars under its jurisdiction. Mayor Datuk Baderul Amin Abdul Hamid said the focus is on improved waste management, including encouraging organisers and traders to separate waste at source to facilitate solid waste handling and reduce daily food disposal. He added that surplus food still safe for consumption should be redistributed or processed into compost as part of sustainability efforts. Council records show that 24,667 tonnes of domestic waste were collected in Seberang Perai in March last year during Ramadan, comparable with April at 24,515 tonnes, May at 23,904 tonnes and June at 23,267 tonnes. “This shows that waste generation during Ramadan is similar to other months, but food wastage still occurs and we hope to minimise it this year,” he said in an interview at Menara MBSP recently. He pointed out that high waste volume increases management costs, while stressing the need for greater awareness among traders and the public. – Bernama cash for grants KUALA LUMPUR: The 2026 Matching Fund Scheme (SDP) is open for applications until May 27, offering grants of up to RM250,000 per approved application to support the production of works in the country’s creative industry sector. The initiative by MyCreative Ventures Sdn Bhd (MyCreative) is part of the Madani budget aspirations and also includes the launch of the Concerts and Events in Malaysia Incentive (Cemi) 2026. In a statement yesterday, MyCreative announced that this year’s SDP has been allocated RM2.5 million, while Cemi received RM10 million. The scheme aims to support business growth and strengthen creative industries with the potential to generate long-term economic impact. For Cemi, the financial rebate programme is designed to support the organisation of large-scale concerts and events involving local and international artistes. – Bernama Creative sector gets

dividends as well as government guaranteed and syariah -compliant savings. “Families earning up to RM4,000 a month are eligible for a matching grant of up to RM10,000.” Under Budget 2025, the government expanded matching grant eligibility to families earning between RM4,000 and RM6,000 for two years under the Ihsan Matching Grant Initiative, offering up to RM5,000 per family. – Bernama

‘Official announcement subject to moon sighting and announcement by Keeper of the Rulers’ Seal’

the department added. It further explained that hilal parameters differ each year, and the position of the Syawal hilal this year is lower and more difficult to observe compared with 2022, making it technically more challenging to sight. Nevertheless, the official decision will depend on actual observation findings, the established verification process and the announcement by the Keeper of the Rulers’ Seal. The department also encouraged the public to make Aidilfitri preparations in a planned and early manner to avoid last-minute difficulties. Concerns have been widely shared online that 1 Syawal this year may fall on March 20 (Friday) instead of the expected March 21 (Saturday). This would be similar to the situation in 2022, when Aidilfitri was celebrated a day earlier than anticipated. ALOR SETAR: A total of 45 tomyam restaurant premises in the city and in Pokok Sena were found operating without licences during operations by the Alor Setar City Council on Feb 14 and 17. Mayor Datuk Abdul Gafar Yahya said 64 premises were inspected during Ops Tomyam, with only 19 holding valid licences. A total of 145 compounds and five notices were issued for various offences, including displaying advertisements without approval. “Compounds were also issued for poor hygiene standards as well as failure to provide typhoid vaccination cards and food handling certificate. “The council views seriously the non-compliance among tomyam restaurant operators, who are still failing to meet the stipulated requirements,” he said. He also reminded local stall owners not to misuse their licences by renting them to foreign nationals and urged all food premises operators to apply for licences to avoid enforcement action. – Bernama

“A hilal that is too low or close to the horizon has a very weak visibility potential even if it theoretically exists. Therefore, the presence of the hilal above the horizon does not necessarily guarantee physical visibility,” it said. Weather conditions such as thick clouds, haze or atmospheric disturbances also pose major challenges in the observation process, Bernama reported. The department pointed out that although calculations may indicate that the hilal has the potential to be sighted even if it does not meet the criteria, weather factors may obstruct actual visibility. “Conversely, under very favourable atmospheric conditions, which are rare in Malaysia, the hilal may sometimes be successfully sighted. This shows that the determination does not rely solely on calculation data, but also on actual field observations,”

IPOH: Mufti Department has urged Muslims not to speculate on the date of 1 Syawal and to await the official announcement from authorities. In a statement posted on its Facebook page, the department called on the public to remain calm, adding that differences in projections are normal within the discipline of falak (Islamic astronomy). “The Hijri calendar distributed to the public is prepared based on hisab (astronomical calculations) data as a guide for annual planning. “However, the official determination of 1 Syawal is subject to the rukyah hilal (new moon sighting) process on the The Perak

evening of 29 Ramadan, as well as the declaration by the relevant authority, and any discrepancy between calendar projections and the official decision is not unusual in the system of determining the beginning of Islamic months,” it said. The department explained that Malaysia adopts an integrated rukyah and hisab approach. From the perspective of falak , when the hilal (crescent moon) is above the horizon at sunset, it generally has the potential to be sighted. However, in Malaysia, visibility of the hilal depends on several technical parameters such as its altitude and the distance between the moon and the sun, known as elongation.

Ops Tomyam nets 45 unlicensed eateries

Abdul Gafar (third from right) giving disposal bags to a trader at a Ramadan bazaar. – BERNAMAPIC

NATIONAL 5 theSun on Sunday MAR 1, 2026

Two more held over gun attack on border control commander BUKIT KAYU HITAM: Two more suspects have been arrested over a case in which the vehicle driven by the commander of the Malaysian Border Control and at the Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration, Customs,

Police had conducted several raids here and in Padang Besar on the day of the shooting and detained seven individuals, aged between 22 and 52, including a 22-year-old Thai woman, believed to be involved in the case. On Wednesday, a Proton X70 sport utility vehicle driven by Mohd Nasaruddin, was shot at just before 6am on a road leading to Masjid Muhajirin, about one kilometre from the Malaysian–Thai border. A gunman riding pillion on a motorcycle fired two shots at his vehicle, believed to have been discharged from a semi-automatic weapon. – Bernama

Quarantine and Security (ICQS) complexes. Also present were MCBA director general Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain and Kedah police chief Adzli Abu Shah. Saifuddin said after the incident, commander SAC Mohd Nasaruddin M. Nasir told police he believes he had been tailed by unidentified individuals before the attack. He added that Mohd Nasaruddin also provided details on the physical appearance of the individuals, enabling police to develop a profile and subsequently arrested the two suspects.

Protection Agency (MCBA) in Bukit Kayu Hitam was shot at on Wednesday. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the latest arrests on Friday night involved two local men aged 51 and 58. “In the first 24 hours, we will be processing them and after that period, we will seek a remand order. That is the current status of the investigation,” he said at a press conference yesterday. Earlier, he paid an official visit to the MCBA entry point

Saifuddin meeting MCBA personnel during an official visit to the ICQS complexes in Bukit Kayu Hitam yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

‘Alleged plot to topple govt will be thoroughly probed’

KUALA LUMPUR: A policeman died following a crash involving a motorcycle and a lorry in Jalan Cheras, heading from Taman Midah to Taman Connaught. Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department chief ACP Mohd Zamzuri Mohd Isa said the 34-year-old victim, who was riding a Yamaha 135LC motorcycle, suffered severe head injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene in the 1.10pm incident. Preliminary investigations indicated that the officer, attached to the Bukit Aman Secretariat, was weaving between lanes in heavy traffic when a vehicle in front of him braked suddenly. “This caused the rider to fall and slide under a lorry travelling in the left lane,” he said. The 45-year-old lorry driver was unharmed and has been detained to assist investigations under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. – Bernama Accused in explosive device case dies SEREMBAN: The accused in the Desa Palma improvised explosive device (IED) case has died at the Kuala Lumpur Hospital. Nilai police chief Supt Johari Yahya said 63-year-old Yeoh Hock Sun’s death was reported at 8.30pm on Friday by officers escorting him from Kajang Prison. “The cause of death at 8.18pm was refractory shock, a condition in which the patient does not respond despite receiving optimal standard treatment,” he said. The senior citizen had pleaded not guilty to five charges after being formally charged at the Tuanku Ja’afar Hospital in January while undergoing treatment, before being transferred to Kuala Lumpur Hospital due to his critical condition. – Bernama Cop killed in motorbike-lorry collision

Sufficient time needed for investigation to be carried out professionally to ensure fairness and transparency, says IGP

firms and media organisations in an alleged plot to topple the government and sabotage national stability. The claims surfaced in a police report lodged in the capital here at 10.29am on Thursday. According to the report, the complainant alleged that discussions took place among a group planning to use at least five international media outlets to exert pressure on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki. The alleged pressure was said to be linked to efforts to drop charges in investigations involving the agency. The complainant further claimed that lobbyists in several countries, including the United Kingdom and the United States, were engaged to apply pressure on Malaysia. The use of lobbyists was described as a professional strategy commonly employed to influence national policy and shape the direction of issues at the global level. treatment at the Malacca Hospital red zone. The bodies of the three victims were sent to the Malacca Hospital forensic unit for a post-mortem, while the motorcycles were taken to the Alor Gajah Computerised Vehicle Inspection Centre for further inspection. The case is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. – Bernama

“Any on prosecution will be made independently and objectively based on facts, statements and legal considerations,” the AGC said in a statement. It stated that it was viewing the issue seriously as any action or plan that affects public order, political stability and national security was a matter that affects the foundations of the system of parliamentary democracy and the rule of law. “The department will provide full cooperation to the police to ensure that the legal process can be conducted in line with the Federal Constitution and the rule of law,” it added. The AGC issued the statement following an official statement by Mohd Khalid regarding a police investigation into allegations of a plot to overthrow the government and disrupt the stability of the country. On Friday, Bernama reported that a prominent local family is said to be involved in engaging international public relations decision middle of the road,” he said in a statement yesterday. He added that Muhammar Adiff Farihin Mohd Anuar, 15, Muhammad Azmi Abdul Rahimah and Nur Khairiah Mat Mazlin, both aged 16, died at the scene due to serious head injuries, Another motorcyclist, Muhammad Haziq Haikal Kassim, 18, suffered serious injuries to the head, legs and hands and is receiving

MALACCA: Three teenagers died while another was seriously injured in a crash involving three motorcycles in Jalan Tambak Paya, Central Malacca district, early yesterday morning. Central Malacca district police chief Assistant Commissioner Christopher Patit said his department received information regarding the fatal incident at about 3.50am yesterday. KUALA LUMPUR: Police are conducting a thorough study of all aspects related to allegations of a plot to topple the government and undermine national stability. Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail said the investigation requires sufficient time and cannot be rushed to ensure fairness and transparency in the legal process. He stressed that any action would only be taken after all details have been carefully and professionally examined. “The matter is still under police investigation and we urge all parties to remain patient. The probe will be conducted professionally based on the facts and evidence obtained. “If there are any developments, we will inform the public,” he said when contacted yesterday.

Mohd Khalid was previously reported as saying that police received a report on Thursday regarding a plot allegedly involving a prominent local figure and an international media agency. Investigations are being carried out by the Classified Criminal Investigation Unit under the Prosecution/Legal Division (D5) of the Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department under Section 124B of the Penal Code. Meanwhile, the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) has urged for the investigation into the alleged plot to overthrow the government to be conducted comprehensively, professionally and free of any interference. The AGC said any party found to be involved must be held accountable according to legal provisions regardless of their standing and background.

Three teens perish in road crash “Initial police investigations found that the motorcycles involved were a Yamaha Y16 and two Yamaha 15ZRs.

“Two of the motorcycles are believed to have been coming from the direction of Bukit Katil towards Tiang Dua, while the other was coming from the opposite direction. “Upon arriving at Jalan Tambak Paya, all three motorcycles are believed to have collided head-on in the

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NATIONAL 6 theSun on Sunday MAR 1, 2026

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Making major lifestyle shift to bond with autistic son

began around 2007, saw him cover major competitions, including the Super League, National Sevens and Malaysian Games. However, after the pandemic period, he pivoted towards grassroots coverage. “I got bored covering only the major tournaments. I decided to focus on schools – primary and secondary. “Those players never experienced having their matches properly analysed or broadcast. When they did, they loved it,” he said. – By IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE ambitions. It depends on the severity, but adjustments are inevitable,” he said. For Jef, that adjustment did not mean leaving rugby entirely. Instead, he integrated his son into his professional world. Within Malaysia’s tight-knit rugby fraternity, Jef’s peers have shown understanding and support. At tournaments, Zyad accompanies his father, moving freely but under supervision. “We avoid certain invitations unless we’re very confident about the environment. You never know how situations might unfold.” However, he sees an unexpected benefit – bonding time. He also reflects on the emotional expectations placed on him as a former athlete. Friends once assumed his firstborn son would follow in his rugby footsteps. “When you’re known in sports circles, people expect your son to play too. But life doesn’t always follow that script,” he said. Instead, Jef has recalibrated his definition of success. “My focus now is my son’s development and happiness. Rugby will always be there,” he added.

Former rugby player scales back commitments, restructure work obligations to focus on child’s wellbeing

Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

lifestyle shift. “Yes, I stopped certain commitments. Before this, I was fully committed to rugby – coaching, commentaries and travelling constantly. If I had continued like that, I wouldn’t be present enough for him,” he said. Two years ago, Zyad was transferred to a Special Education Integration Programme school. Since then, Jef has personally handled school drop-offs and pick-ups whenever possible, restructuring his work around fatherhood. “Many parents in the special needs community will tell you, often one parent has to scale back or surrender certain He went on to represent Malaysia for five years before moving into coaching roles, including assistant positions with the Malaysia Under-23 and the national women rugby team. Jef said he was introduced to rugby in 2000 at Universiti Teknologi Mara, where he trained alongside some of the country’s top players at the time. After graduating, he joined the historic Royal Selangor Club before progressing to the Selangor state team. His commentary career, which

PUCHONG: Raising a child with special needs presents profound emotional and practical challenges, something that former national rugby player turned influencer Jef Hazrul Nizam Jaafar understands intimately. Jef’s eldest son, Jef Zyad Thaqif, 12, was diagnosed with mild autism, but is manageable with structured support. “He can communicate and attend school. He’s just slower in processing and learning. The key is patience,” Jef told theSun in an interview. He admitted that Zyad’s diagnosis prompted a major

Jef with his son Zyad. – PIC COURTESY OF JEF HAZRUL NIZAM JAAFAR

‘Abang Jep’ carves out niche as rugby content creator PUCHONG: Making it big as an influencer in today’s saturated digital landscape is no small feat, but former national rugby player Jef Hazrul Nizam Jaafar has managed to do just that by carving out a niche few dared to explore. Better known as “Abang Jep” within local rugby circles, Jef has successfully transitioned from player and coach to full-time rugby content creator, using platforms such as TikTok to build a loyal following centred entirely on the sport. “In TikTok, if you focus on one niche and you really know your subject, people will come,” he told theSun . Unlike many creators who diversify across trending topics, Jef concentrates solely on rugby – a sport that, while growing, remains outside Malaysia’s traditional core sports ecosystem. “When I started around 2022, there was practically no one consistently discussing rugby in an open forum format. I went live and answered questions directly. It became an open discussion space,” he said. Drawing from years of experience as a player, coach and commentator, Jef provides tactical breakdowns, match insights and practical “shortcuts” for young players. “Students prefer when you simplify situations,” he said. His credibility also plays an important role in his online journey. Jef represented Selangor in the prestigious Piala Agong competition, winning three titles, and earned a national call-up in his third year with the state side.

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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WORLD 7

Duterte murdered no one, say defence lawyers

SEOUL: North Korea released a rare image yesterday of leader Kim Jong Un’s teenage daughter firing a rifle at a shooting range, adding to speculation that she is being groomed as his successor. Kim’s daughter Ju Ae has long been seen as the next in line to rule the secretive, nuclear-armed state, and took part in a string of recent high-profile outings, including this week’s military parade marking the closing stages of North Korea’s key party congress. Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) released a photo of Ju Ae shooting a rifle at an outdoor shooting range, peering through a rifle scope with her finger on the trigger, smoke rising from the barrel. She was wearing what appeared to be a leather jacket, a garment often worn by both her and her father at major political events, symbolising authority and legitimacy. KCNA reported yesterday that Kim presented new sniper rifles to senior party and military officials, describing the move as a gesture of appreciation and “absolute trust”, without mentioning Ju Ae. He then visited a shooting THE HAGUE: Rodrigo Duterte killed thousands during his anti drug campaign, an International Criminal Court prosecutor alleged on Friday, as the crimes against humanity hearing against the former Philippines president wrapped up. His defence team countered that Duterte had murdered no one and that the prosecution’s argument was based on “hearsay” and “conjecture”, falling far short of the bar needed to confirm the charges against him. “He’s proud of his killings. He wants to be remembered for them,” said Julian Nicholls, summing up for the prosecution. “Decades of murdering his own people, murdering the children of the Philippines, and he claims that he did it all for his country. He doesn’t deny it. “He ran a death squad in Davao (city) that he created. He ran it for over 20 years before he became president. His promise was to kill thousands and he did.”

COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s president has cleared investigators to detain the country’s former intelligence chief for up to three months of questioning over his alleged role in the 2019 Easter bombings that killed 279 people, police said yesterday. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake signed an order under the Prevention of Terrorism Act to hold retired army major-general Suresh Sallay for 90 days for questioning by detectives. Criminal investigators arrested Sallay on Wednesday, making him the most high-profile official netted in the long-running investigation into the bombings, which wounded about 500 people. Forty-five foreigners were among those killed. Nine suicide bombers carried out the coordinated attacks on April 21, 2019, targeting three churches and three luxury hotels. “The president signed the DO (detention order) last night to keep Sallay in custody for 90 days after the initial three-day period he was held,” a police spokesman said. – AFP Sri Lanka probes ex-spy chief over bombings They can confirm all of the charges and proceed to trial, throw out some of the charges, or reject the case outright, in which case Duterte would walk free. – AFP by saying that his clients experienced defence rebuttals “like their murdered loved-ones are being murdered again”. He called on the court to confirm the charges so that the victims can be “reintegrated into their communities”. Following the hearing, judges will have up to 60 days to issue a written verdict.

“But he murdered nobody,” Kaufman told the court. He urged the judges not to confirm the charges and to free Duterte to “live out the rest of his days in peace” in the Philippines. He said during a visit to explain proceedings to his client, he “lost the desire to follow me within a minute”. However, he cited the former leader as asking how the prosecutors could prove that he murdered anyone, again denying the charges against him. Gilbert Andres, a lawyer representing victims, summed up

Judges have 60 days to issue verdict

Davao City and then as president of the Philippines. The prosecution has put forward 76 cases of alleged murder, which they say is an “emblematic fraction” of those killed, which rights groups say number thousands. Duterte’s defence lawyer Nicholas Kaufman, summing up his case, said if his client could be faulted for anything, it was his “inappropriate choice of language”.

Throughout the week, a panel of three judges has heard from the prosecution, defence and victims’ representatives as they weigh whether to proceed to a full trial. Duterte has not been in the courtroom. The defence says he is too ill to attend. Victims say he does not want to face the loved ones of those he killed. He faces three counts of crimes against humanity over his “war on drugs” when he was mayor of

North Korea leader grooms daughter for key role

Ju Ae trying out her new rifle in Pyongyang. – KCNA HANDOUT/REUTERSPIC

department – a role analysts describe as akin to a party secretary-general. 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. – AFP

to handle and fire a weapon, the photos “suggest she is indeed receiving training as a successor”, said Yang Moo-jin, former president of the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul. KCNA also said Kim Jong Un’s powerful sister Kim Yo Jong will head the party’s general affairs

range with the officials, where he fired the rifle and took a group photo. South Korea’s spy agency said this month that Pyongyang appears to have started the process of designating Ju Ae as leader Kim’s successor. By underscoring Ju Ae’s ability

Looted Khmer artefacts returned PHNOM PENH: Buddhist monks chanted blessings and scattered flowers on Friday over 74 artefacts returned to the country after being plundered by a smuggler.

not merely works of art; they are living witnesses to the genius of the Khmer ancestors and the spiritual heart of Khmer civilisation,” it said. In 2024, New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art returned 14 artefacts looted by Latchford, including a 10th century sandstone goddess statue and a large 7th century Buddha head. Thousands of relics are believed to have been trafficked out of Cambodia over the years. Since 1996, Cambodian law has forbidden the unauthorised removal of antiquities, with a punishment of up to eight years in prison. – AFP

books detailing the art of the ancient Khmer Empire, which spanned modern-day Cambodia and much else of Southeast Asia. Deputy Prime Minister Hun Many told reporters the return of the artefacts was a matter of “national pride” because the pieces “connect the national soul from our ancestors’ era to the current time”. The objects, to form part of the collection at the National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh, include “monumental sandstone sculptures, refined bronze works and significant ritual objects”, said a Culture Ministry statement. “These 74 sacred objects are

Scholar Douglas Latchford, once regarded as a key authority on Cambodian antiquities, was charged by prosecutors in New York in 2019 with smuggling looted Cambodian relics to sell on the international black market. Cambodia’s Culture Ministry said the repatriation from Britain of the relics was sealed in a deal with the estate of Latchford, who died in Bangkok in 2020. Before the scandal came to light, Latchford earned acclaim for

Hun Many (right) being briefed on the history of the returned cultural artefacts. – AFPPIC

theSun on Sunday MAR 1, 2026

WORLD 8

US, Israel attack Iran DUBAI: The United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran yesterday, targeting its Key leader moved to secure site targeted Iranian officials, a source said. An Israeli official said Iranian Supreme Leader indirect talks between the US and Iran this week failed to produce a breakthrough. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said a first wave of retaliatory Iranian missile and drone attacks had been launched against Israel, and that all US bases and interests in the region were within Iran’s reach.

20 dead in Bolivia plane crash LA PAZ: At least 20 people were killed when a Bolivian military cargo plane carrying banknotes crashed while landing near the capital city of La Paz, police said on Friday, as crowds attempted to loot the site. The aircraft, a C-130 Hercules transport plane, made by Lockheed Martin, veered off the runway at El Alto International Airport and crashed into an avenue, destroying cars and damaging trucks. Mangled parts of the aircraft were seen on the road where the plane came down and bystanders could be seen rushing to grab the scattered cash, prompting police to use tear gas to repel the crowd. Authorities later set the money alight in a bonfire at the scene of the crash. It was not immediately known what caused the crash but witnesses told AFP that the weather had been treacherous. “A heavy hailstorm” was falling and “there was lightning” when the plane went down said Cristina Choque, a 60 year-old vendor whose car was struck by aircraft wreckage. “The tyre fell on us, my daughter was injured and has a head wound,” she said. Colonel Rene Tambo, head of the police homicide division in El Alto, said “there are about 20, maybe a few more”, casualties. – AFP MOSCOW: Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia’s powerful Security Council, chided President Donald Trump yesterday for the attack on Iran and questioned Washington’s staying power given the relatively short history of the United States compared to that of Persia’s civilisation. “The peacemaker once again showed his face,” Medvedev, a former Russian president, said. “All negotiations with Iran are a cover operation. No one doubted it. No one really wanted to negotiate anything. “Who has more patience to wait for the inglorious end of their enemy. The USA is only 249 years old. The Persian Empire was founded more than 2,500 years ago. Let’s see in 100 years.” – Reuters Medvedev chides Trump

heard loud booms as well. Bahrain said the service centre of the US Fifth Fleet had been subjected to a missile attack. Qatar said it had downed all missiles targeting the country and that it had a right to respond. Explosions were heard near Iran’s Kharg Island. Iran exports 90% of its crude oil via Kharg, for shipping through the narrow Strait of Hormuz. Global airlines cancelled flights across the Middle East. Trump urged Iranians to stay sheltered because “bombs will be dropping everywhere”. “When we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance.” – Reuters

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian were targeted but the result of the strikes was not clear. A source with knowledge of ߑ the matter had earlier told Reuters that Khamenei was not in Tehran and had been transferred to a secure location. An Iranian source close to the establishment said several senior commanders in Iran’s Revolutionary Guards and political officials had been killed. The renewed confrontation between Iran and its foes dimmed hopes of a diplomatic solution to Tehran’s nuclear dispute with the West. The latest

leadership and plunging the Middle East into a new conflict that President Donald Trump said would end a security threat to the United States and give Iranians a chance to topple their rulers. The strikes put oil-producing Gulf Arab countries on edge as fears of escalation in the region grew, and Tehran responded by launching missiles towards Israel. The first wave of strikes in what the Pentagon named “Operation Epic Fury” mainly

Iran’s retaliation would continue until “the enemy is decisively defeated,” the Revolutionary Guards said. Loud booms sounded in the United Arab Emirates capital Abu Dhabi, a major ߑ oil producer and close US ally. Blasts were also heard in the country’s business capital Dubai. One witness in Abu Dhabi heard five booms in rapid succession. Other witnesses in the Al Dhafra and Bateen areas

Video grabs show explosions in Tehran during the attacks. – AFPPIC

Pakistan fighter jet downed KABUL: A Pakistani fighter jet crashed in Jalalabad in

two days, which observers said could have been drones. Pakistan launched airstrikes on Friday on the Afghan capital Kabul and southern Kandahar, where Afghan Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada is based. That came after Afghan forces began a border offensive on Thursday, which the government said was in response to earlier Pakistani strikes. Pakistan’s information minister said 37 locations had been subject to aerial targeting. – AFP possible rework of the wiring is necessary. If no oil change and no microfilter replacement has been performed, there is no immediate need for action. Rework during the first oil change is sufficient, the spokesperson said. – Bernama

down in the sixth district of Jalalabad city and its pilot has been held captive,” police spokesman Tayeb Hammad said. Wahidullah Mohammadi, spokesman for the military in eastern Afghanistan, said the Pakistani jet was downed by Afghan forces “and the pilot was captured alive”. Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said the claims were “totally untrue”. Afghanistan’s Defence Ministry has said it carried out airstrikes on Pakistani territory over the past “No accidents are known in connection with this fault,” said a BMW spokesman, adding that it was only a precautionary move. If the vehicle has already had an oil change and with it a microfilter replacement, an immediate inspection and

denied harbouring militants and its spokesperson has called for “dialogue” to resolve a previously simmering conflict that Pakistan’s defence minister said on Friday was now “open war”. An AFP journalist heard a jet flying over Jalalabad, followed by the sound of two explosions from the direction of the city’s airport. Jalalabad residents said they saw a person who parachuted from the plane, who was subsequently detained. “A Pakistani fighter jet was shot damage to cables during microfilter replacement, resulting in a short circuit with smoke and subsequent fire”, it said. As a measure, the routing of the cockpit wiring harness will be inspected and, if necessary, corrected.

Afghanistan’s east, the Afghan military and police said yesterday, after Islamabad launched airstrikes on at least three cities in a flare-up of cross-border fighting. The United States voiced its diplomatic support for Pakistan’s actions after Islamabad said it would not stop strikes that were meant to pressure an Afghan government that it accuses of backing militancy. The Afghan government has

BMW recalls more cars worldwide over fire hazard MUNICH: BMW is again recalling hundreds of thousands of vehicles due to a potential fire hazard. 7 Series, M5, 5 Series and i7, made between June 9, 2022 and Dec 5, 2025.

A total of 337,374 vehicles are potentially affected, including 29,441 vehicles in Germany. The faulty routing of the cockpit wiring harness “can lead to

The carmaker has confirmed its recall notice as published in the database of the German Federal Motor Transport Authority. The affected models are the i5,