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Cabinet meets today to assess Malaysia’s position as escalating tensions in West Asia shake global oil markets and push up fuel costs. identity in first feature film Fiscal resilience under scrutiny Report on — page 2

J’den K’ng spends his days lying on therapy equipment at a care centre, relying entirely on caregivers to move his stiffened body as he battles the lasting effects of severe brain damage. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Oil price surge fuels calls for work-from-home measures Feasibility of strategy depends on company size, sector and workforce structure, says expert.

Help needed to give special child chance at better life Care centre seeks RM30,000 for 8-year-old with brain damage to cover costs of therapy, medications and corrective wheelchair. Report on — page 5

Report on — page 3

FRIDAY | MAR 13, 2026

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Cabinet to assess fiscal position after spike in global oil prices p

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING economic resilience will be under scrutiny today as the Cabinet meets to assess the nation’s fiscal position amid escalating tensions in West Asia that threaten to shake global oil markets and push up fuel costs. On Wednesday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim sought to reassure Malaysians that the Budi Madani RON95 subsidy would be maintained for now and that the country’s petroleum stocks are sufficient to last until May. All eyes are on whether policymakers will introduce major policy adjustments, gradually revise fuel prices or take swift measures to shield households and businesses. Analysts warn that a prolonged conflict could send shockwaves through global fuel supplies, drive up living costs and strain government finances, testing the resilience of both the economy and households. Decisions taken today could shape Malaysia’s economic trajectory for months or even years as the country navigates one of the most volatile periods in global oil markets in recent memory. Economist Prof Dr Geoffrey Williams said the conflict appears to be easing for now. He cautioned that a prolonged conflict affecting the Strait of Hormuz could further tighten global fuel supplies. “Oil markets jumped to US$120 (RM471) per barrel last Monday, although recent releases of strategic reserves may stabilise prices. “The release of 400 million barrels of reserves looks likely to stabilise rather than reduce prices because markets expect supply restrictions to continue.” He added that tensions that drag beyond two to three months could begin to weigh on Malaysia’s growth, trade and inflation. 0 Can RM1.99 be sustained? The key question for Malaysians is whether the government will maintain the current RON95 price under the subsidy framework. Despite assurances from Anwar, economists say sustaining the subsidy could pose considerable fiscal challenges if global fuel prices remain elevated. “The fiscal challenge for the government will be to keep Budi95 prices at RM1.99 amid higher market prices. “Subsidies will increase, additional demand may have to be subsidised and savings accumulated so far could be wiped out, requiring additional funding.” Williams suggested structural reforms such as a tiered petrol pricing system. “A tiered system might be RM1.99 for the first 50 litres per month, RM2.33 for the next 25 litres, RM2.63 for the following 25 litres and the full price of RM3.27 for consumption above 100 litres.” He said such a system could encourage more prudent fuel consumption while easing fiscal pressure on the government. “If the conflict drags on, the effects on growth, trade and prices will become more pronounced, requiring stronger policy responses.” 0 Bracing for price pressures Putra Business School economist Prof Ahmed Razman Abdul Latiff said Malaysia must prioritise managing government spending, monitoring inflationary pressures and preparing for potential energy supply disruptions. “Policymakers should assess the risks from fuel subsidies, track imported inflation through fuel, food and logistics, and prepare for possible supply disruptions via the Strait of Hormuz.” Ahmed Razman said several policy tools could help cushion the economic impact. “The government can maintain or temporarily restrict fuel subsidies to affected groups, adjust targeted cash assistance such as Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah for households and provide sector-specific support for industries heavily dependent on fuel, such as transport and logistics. “Coordination with monetary policy is also important because rising energy prices could influence inflation expectations.” He added that administrative measures such as price monitoring and anti-profiteering enforcement would help prevent excessive cost pass-through to consumers. JAYA: Malaysia’s

o All eyes on whether lawmakers introduce major policy adjustments, gradually revise fuel prices or take swift measures to shield households and businesses

Ahmed Razman said sustained disruption in global energy markets could quickly ripple through the domestic economy. – SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN/THESUN

“If the conflict involving Iran escalates, it could disrupt shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key passage for about one-fifth of the world’s oil. Even a partial disruption could push prices higher and trigger market volatility.” 0 Cabinet urged to act fast Mohd Yazid said the Cabinet must move quickly to strengthen logistics planning, fiscal preparedness and diplomatic coordination as global energy markets remain fragile. “The Cabinet should ensure the security of fuel, refined products and LNG logistics rather than relying solely on crude supply levels. “The government should also prepare contingency plans for the budget and fuel subsidies if oil prices rise, the ringgit weakens or transport costs surge, as these factors can quickly drive up living costs and strain government finances.” He added that Malaysia should work closely with Asean partners, Gulf oil producers, shipping partners and major Asian buyers to help maintain stability and keep key sea routes open. He warned that rising shipping and insurance costs could pose the biggest immediate risk to global supply chains. “Malaysia must also strengthen cybersecurity, trade finance and supply-chain coordination. “Geopolitical crises often disrupt payments, ports, logistics systems and market confidence long before fuel supplies are actually affected.” 0 Malaysia’s economic test begins Today’s Cabinet meeting is expected to tackle a high-stakes agenda – fiscal resilience, subsidy sustainability, energy security and inflation control. While current petroleum stocks provide a temporary buffer, analysts say policymakers may soon face difficult decisions. The decisions they make could determine whether Malaysia weathers one of the most turbulent periods in global energy markets in recent years or faces prolonged economic shockwaves.

He said while Malaysia benefits as a net exporter of crude oil and natural gas through Petronas, the country remains exposed because it relies on imports of refined petroleum products. “Global price spikes can still raise domestic fuel costs and increase subsidy burdens. “Overall economic growth may remain stable but households could feel the pressure through higher living costs and reduced purchasing power.” 0 West Asia tensions rattle oil markets Ahmed Razman warned that sustained disruption in global energy markets could quickly ripple through the domestic economy. “Sustained disruptions could increase costs across transport, logistics and food sectors, directly affecting households. Strategic subsidy and fiscal reforms will be crucial to cushion the economy.” International Islamic University Malaysia international relations expert Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Yazid Zul Kepli said from a geopolitical perspective, wider regional instability could disrupt global energy markets. “Malaysia should closely monitor the risk of the West Asia conflict expanding and disrupting global oil and gas supplies. This could push up fuel and shipping costs, increase inflation and put pressure on Malaysia’s subsidies and fiscal position.” Mohd Yazid also highlighted risks from disrupted trade routes, market uncertainty and potential security threats. He said the most immediate concerns include rising oil and gas prices, possible disruption to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and higher freight and insurance costs. “Even without a physical shortage, the economic shock can be felt quickly through prices, trade and market sentiment. “The global oil supply outlook remains uncertain, and developments in the Gulf carry more weight than Malaysia’s domestic stockpiles.

Culture of integrity key in fight against graft: PM KUALA LUMPUR: Law enforcement alone is insufficient to combat corruption as the effort must be reinforced through a broader culture of integrity and sound governance practices, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. In a post on his Facebook page, he said an integrated approach involving the public and private sectors as well as society at large is crucial to ensure that anti-corruption efforts are implemented effectively and continuously. Anwar said he had emphasised the matter in the Special Cabinet Committee on National Governance meeting which he chaired yesterday. He added that the committee had agreed to implement the Certified Integrity Officer programme as part of efforts to strengthen national governance. He said issues such as leakage of public funds and abuse of power not only undermine national governance but also affect public well-being, including public health, the environment and national integrity. “The government remains focused on strengthening the governance agenda to ensure that integrity and transparency continue to form the core of the public service in upholding the people’s trust and reinforcing confidence in national institutions.” – Bernama

FRIDAY | MAR 13, 2026

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Middle East tensions fuel calls for work-from-home policy

Govt mulling WFH for civil servants

adopting green technologies and programmes promoting digitalisation and hybrid work where feasible. However, Syed Hussain said remote work or staggered hours may have limited impact on overall energy consumption and could disrupt operational efficiency or service delivery. He added that short-term energy saving policies should remain flexible, consultative and sector-sensitive. “Employers generally prefer advisory guidelines rather than mandatory directives, allowing companies to adopt practices that are practical within their specific operational environments.” He also said longer-term strategies, including public transport improvements, energy-efficient technologies and support for managing rising energy costs would help strengthen economic resilience without undermining productivity or competitiveness. – By Harith Kamal PETALING JAYA: The government is considering work-from-home (WFH) arrangements for civil servants, with the possibility of the issue being raised at a Cabinet meeting, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said. He added that many private companies have embraced hybrid working models, including WFH, in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. “On the government’s side, we will study the feasibility of the WFH arrangements, and the matter may be discussed at tomorrow’s special meeting. “First, we will study the state of the global economy. We will look into the figures and determine what actions the government should take.” His comments came following Thailand’s move to introduce WFH for its government agencies and state enterprises, a strategy aimed at reducing energy consumption amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Human Resources Minister R. Ramanan yesterday said his ministry would explore energy saving measures, including cutting electricity use in government offices and expanding WFH options for employees to reduce operational costs. He added that the initiative mirrors approaches adopted by other countries and aims to ensure government spending is managed prudently. He also expressed support for the government’s decision not to hold any official Aidilfitri open houses this year for ministries, government agencies and government-linked companies, describing it as a precautionary measure against potential economic fallout from the West Asia conflict, particularly tensions between Iran and Israel. The crisis escalated after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran, prompting retaliatory strikes by Tehran against US interests. – By Harith Kamal

o Feasibility of arrangement depends on company size, sector and workforce: Expert

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

hours and office energy-saving measures to cope with fuel concerns. “Malaysian companies understand the rationale behind such initiatives, but emphasise that feasibility and effectiveness depend heavily on sectoral needs,” Syed Hussain said, highlighting the challenges of applying blanket policies across industries that rely on on-site operations and direct customer interaction. “Many businesses, particularly in manufacturing, logistics, retail, construction and hospitality, require physical workforce presence and cannot rely extensively on remote work. “For these sectors, fuel cost increases primarily affect production, supply chains and distribution networks rather than employee commuting. “WFH measures may therefore have limited impact on overall fuel consumption.” labour-intensive businesses, face greater hurdles in adopting remote work, as their survival often depends on having employees on-site. “Medium and large companies, especially in the services sector, are better positioned to implement WFH policies.” He also said while temporary remote work could help employees save on commuting costs and fuel expenses, it also introduces potential challenges. Balakrishnan highlighted the psychological and financial effects of sudden shifts in work arrangements. “Employees may experience mental stress or emotional strain when working from home, particularly if they are unsure about their wages, overtime or allowances. “This is especially critical for those in the B40 group or middle income households which rely on a fixed salary to cover rent, utilities, education and daily expenses.” He emphasised the importance of government support, particularly for micro and small industries that might struggle to sustain operations during prolonged fuel price hikes. “Companies and governments must collaborate to protect employees from financial hardship while ensuring business continuity.” In addition to remote work, energy-saving measures such as reducing air conditioning could also impact employees. He explained that while energy conservation is necessary, it could affect health, safety and motivation if workers are exposed to uncomfortable temperatures. “During my research, including case studies in the steel, postal and automotive industries, we observed that employees supported

PETALING Malaysian employers are closely monitoring the ripple effects of ongoing Middle East tensions on global oil supplies, but say temporary work-from-home (WFH) or staggered office hours are unlikely to significantly reduce fuel consumption across the country’s diverse economy. Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman said the federation recognises that tensions in the Middle East have the potential to create volatility in global fuel and energy markets. He added that any sustained disruption to oil supply chains would indirectly affect businesses through higher transport costs, electricity tariffs, logistics expenses and overall operational costs. The alert comes as some Southeast Asian neighbours, including Thailand and Vietnam, have reportedly encouraged public employees to adopt WFH arrangements, staggered “Now, the legal framework under the Employment Act 1955, along with Sabah and Sarawak labour ordinances, allows companies to implement the measures officially.” He said large, service-based firms are better positioned than labour-intensive small and medium enterprises (SME), adding that a company’s operational nature plays a crucial role in determining feasibility. He added that SME, particularly JAYA: PETALING JAYA: With global fuel prices surging amid escalating Middle East tensions, Southeast Asian neighbours such as Thailand and Vietnam are reportedly turning to work-from-home (WFH) policies to slash energy consumption, and Malaysians are asking why the same strategy has not been widely considered here. Calls are growing for local companies to explore temporary WFH arrangements as a way to reduce operational costs and ease the financial strain on employees facing rising commuting and living expenses. Universiti Malaysia Kelantan human resource expert Prof Dr Balakrishnan Parasuraman said Malaysian firms could adopt WFH measures, but feasibility depends on company size, sector and workforce structure. “During the Covid-19 pandemic, we quickly realised that many companies were unprepared for remote work. “Yet when the crisis hit, they adapted by implementing flexible working arrangements and WFH policies.

Balakrishnan said flexible arrangements, part-time shifts or reduced working hours could help companies maintain production while safeguarding jobs. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

He added that sectors in which remote work is viable could adopt temporary, flexible arrangements, including hybrid models, staggered hours or energy-saving practices within offices, provided the measures remain advisory rather than mandatory. “It is important that any policy recommendation allows companies flexibility to determine arrangements that best suit their operational realities, productivity requirements and customer service obligations.” MEF also emphasised the importance of broader policy responses to support businesses. “Measures could include stabilising energy costs, supporting business continuity and improving energy efficiency across industries. “Incentives for energy-efficient equipment, better public transport connectivity and policies supporting digitalisation could reduce energy use without disrupting operations.” temporary energy-saving measures, as long as job security was not threatened. “Job security remains paramount; without it, the wellbeing of employees and their families is directly impacted.” For the human resource (HR) departments, the challenge lies in balancing operational efficiency with employee welfare. Balakrishnan said flexible arrangements, part-time shifts or reduced working hours could help companies maintain production while safeguarding jobs. “HR managers must carefully assess any policy to ensure it does not undermine employee morale or productivity. “It is crucial to retain committed and talented employees, as they are key to long-term value creation and company sustainability.” He said lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic provide useful guidance. “Companies that survived the

He also said energy-intensive sectors such as manufacturing, aviation and heavy industry have limited scope for WFH or staggered hours. “These industries rely on continuous operations and on-site staff, so any reduction in commuting would have only a marginal impact compared with the substantial energy required for production.” Customer-facing industries, including retail, hospitality, healthcare and essential services also require physical interaction. “Business hours and staffing are dictated by customer demand and service continuity, making adjustments difficult without affecting operations.” On incentives to encourage voluntary energy-saving, MEF recommended fiscal incentives and tax deductions for energy-efficient investments, grants for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) pandemic did so by adapting policies to sustain operations without compromising workforce loyalty. “HR departments advising CEOs effectively played a critical role in keeping businesses afloat.” As Malaysia navigates external pressures such as rising fuel costs and geopolitical uncertainty, temporary WFH policies and energy saving initiatives could offer short term relief. Balakrishnan emphasised that careful planning, employee support and government intervention are necessary to ensure that the measures do not inadvertently create financial or psychological strain for workers. “Ultimately, both employees and employers face challenges. “With proper preparation, transparent communication and a focus on retaining talent, companies could adapt successfully while protecting the wellbeing of their workforce.”

‘Flexible office hours unlikely to significantly reduce fuel consumption’

FRIDAY | MAR 13, 2026

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Public urged to dispose of rubbish responsibly

Pahang authorities deny claims of illegal logging activities KUANTAN: The Pahang Forestry Department has denied allegations of illegal logging activities in Bentong as claimed in a video that was recently widely circulated on social media. The department said the tree-felling activity shown in the video was not illegal logging but was carried out on privately owned land located outside the Permanent Reserved Forest area. “(The department) and the state government view this matter seriously as it involves the sustainability of forest management as well as public perception of environmental conservation efforts in the state.” The department also said the area involved comprised five privately-owned land lots that had received approval from the authorities for the development of an agricultural project. “The project is being implemented in collaboration with the Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority as part of efforts to develop and manage land that would benefit the landowners as well as the local agricultural sector.” The department added that it remains committed to ensuring that any development and land-use activities are carried out in full compliance with existing rules and laws while ensuring environmental sustainability continues to be preserved. “The public is advised not to speculate or spread unverified information. Such actions would only cause misunderstanding and unease among the community. “(The department) always welcomes official information from the public and will take firm action if there are any violations of the law under the forestry acts and enactments in the state.” – Bernama 108 open burning complaints in Kedah ALOR SETAR: The Kedah Environment Department received 108 complaints involving open burning from Jan 1 to Feb 28. Its director Sharifah Zakiah Syed Sahab said three districts, namely Sungai Petani, Kota Setar and Kulim, recorded the highest number of complaints. “Among the factors that (lead to) open burning is the irresponsible actions of the (public). In addition, in the current hot and dry weather conditions, it could cause fires to spread quickly and they are difficult to control. “(The Environment Department) only received 108 complaints but the Fire and Rescue Department received more than 1,000 cases related to open burning. Many complaints do not reach us, so it is difficult to take action,” she told reporters on Wednesday. She added that her department would increase patrols to ensure that no party commits open burning because it is a serious offence under Section 29A of the Environmental Quality Act 1974. “Open burning could be a nuisance to nearby residents. For example, if you burn rubbish in your own area, the smoke (could) enter the houses of individuals who live nearby and (disrupt their routine). “Burning also involves domestic waste and certain (individuals) also burn plastic and tyres, which would produce black smoke and polluting fumes. For this reason, (the department) has established strategic cooperation with the Fire and Rescue department to identify areas where open burning takes place.” Sharifah Zakiah expressed hope that the public could report any open burning activities at the department’s toll-free line at 1-800-88 2727 or via the e-complaint feature on its official website. – Bernama

o More than 1,000 littering offences recorded since January: SWCorp

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

KUALA LUMPUR: “Our principle is simple: the hands that throw rubbish should be the hands that clean it,” said Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation (SWCorp) CEO Khalid Mohamed. He also urged the public to take responsibility for proper waste disposal, as enforcement against littering continues nationwide. He added that from Jan 1 to Mar 11 this year, SWCorp recorded 1,002 littering offences nationwide under the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 2007 (Act 672). “Of the total, 789 offenders were locals while 213 were foreign nationals. A total of 709 compound notices were issued, while 189 cases were brought to court, with 76 cases completed,” he told reporters during the community service order implementation programme yesterday. He also said the second series of the community service order involved five offenders, including four Malaysians and one Indian national aged between 26 and 59, comprising four men and one woman, following the first series on Feb 13, which also included five individuals. “The programme was scheduled today during Ramadan because the court, which met on Feb 23, imposed fines and a four-hour community service order to be completed within a month. “Since that period would have fallen during Hari Raya, we felt it was inappropriate to carry out the order during the festive period. “In consideration of the Muslim offenders who are observing the fast, the tasks were arranged at locations deemed suitable and manageable during the fasting month,” he said, adding that consent was obtained from all the offenders, and all were confirmed to be in good health.

Khalid emphasised that SWCorp officers operate 24/7, including after office hours, and are occasionally deployed in plain clothes to monitor individuals who litter in public places. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

“Many offenders claim there are no rubbish bins nearby, but based on our experience this is often not true. In some cases, a rubbish bin may be only a few metres away. “Even if there is no bin nearby, it is still not an excuse. People could hold on to their rubbish and dispose of it properly when they find a bin.” Khalid emphasised that SWCorp officers operate 24/7, including after office hours, and are occasionally deployed in plain clothes to monitor individuals who litter in public places. “We have also seen individuals who are conscious about cleanliness. They keep their rubbish with them until they find a bin and then dispose of it properly. ”So far, we have not encountered any offenders refusing to carry out the community service order. “If they refuse to comply, they could face an additional fine ranging from RM2,000 to RM10,000, as well as possible imprisonment.”

Ewon said train services returned to normal on March 4 using the same railbus, which has been operating without any problems since. He added that the Sabah State Railway Department Board of Inquiry conducted a comprehensive investigation, reviewing the incident report, statements from Machinery Engineering Division staff, digital mobile video footage on the railbus as well as technical inspections and simulations at the scene. He said based on the findings of the internal investigation committee, disciplinary action would be recommended against the driver in accordance with the Sabah State Public Service Regulations 2008 [Code of Conduct Article 208(2)(j)] for negligence in performing his duties. He also said the department would boost its SOPs for train operations, maintenance and driving to prevent a recurrence of the incident. Ewon, who is also Sabah Industrial, Khalid said the community service tasks include cleaning drains, sweeping public areas, removing cobwebs and cleaning toilets, among other routine cleaning duties usually carried out by sanitation workers. However, he said apart from the 10 offenders involved so far, new arrests continue to be made every day. He added that the third series would take place on July 28, involving about 119 offenders across seven states, with the highest number from Kuala Lumpur at 37 cases, followed by Kedah with 31. He also said while food and drink containers were often discarded in the past, such cases are now much rarer, and most of their recent enforcement actions involve cigarette butts, which account for about 90% of offences. “In terms of public awareness, the government has been promoting cleanliness campaigns for a long time.

Tenom railbus collision caused by driver negligence KOTA KINABALU: An investigation into the March 3 train-trolley motor collision in Tenom revealed that the crash resulted from negligence by the Railbus RB8801 driver, who failed to carry out required machinery checks before departure. fully operational,” he told reporters during a programme to distribute iftar meals to railway passengers on Wednesday. Entrepreneurship and Transport minister, said the move was aimed at enhancing safety compliance, particularly among train drivers and assistant drivers on duty to prevent negligence (in performing their duties).

“The need to tighten and improve SOPs, especially for drivers and assistant drivers, was raised in the (inquiry) to ensure that all procedures related to train movement are carried out before operations begin.” He reminded residents living near railway tracks not to carry out any activities in the area to ensure their safety. He added that under the Sabah State Railways Enactment 2017, the railway reserve area is a prohibited zone and any activities within the track area require the minister’s approval upon the recommendation of the department director. The use of motorised trolleys built using motorcycles on railway tracks without permission is an offence and could damage the rails as well as compromise the safety of railway operations. – Bernama

Sabah Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk Ewon Benedick said the investigation also revealed that the driver did not close the isolating valve on the vehicle and omitted a dynamic test to ensure the brake system was fully functional. He added that the driver’s negligence caused the vehicle’s brake system to not function fully, resulting in a collision with the trolley motor. “After the railbus stopped at Km133/8, the driver checked and corrected the position of the isolating valve. A subsequent test drive showed that the brake system was functioning properly, allowing the railbus to return to Tenom Station without needing to be towed. “An inspection by the assistant engineer immediately after the railbus arrived at the station confirmed that the brake system was

FRIDAY | MAR 13, 2026

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Special child in dire need of funds

o Care centre seeks RM30,000 for 8-year-old with brain damage to cover costs of therapy, medications and corrective wheelchair

will also cover his ongoing therapy and medical needs. “Because J’den cannot see and cannot control his body movements well, the wheelchair will help support his head, hips and legs in the correct position. Despite his daily challenges, Lee described J’den as a remarkably resilient child. The fundraising appeal has also gained support from Hamidi’s Comrades in Charity (HCIC). “After checking the situation and meeting the child, we believe the case is genuine and deserving of support,” founder Hamidi Mookkaiyah Abdullah told theSun . Those who wish to help can contribute through HCIC CIMB Bank account at 801100 4760. Enquiries can be directed to Lee at 016-216 6739 or peggygoh2166@gmail.com

He also relies on multiple long term medications, including Baclofen to reduce muscle stiffness, Topamax to manage neurological symptoms and Nexium to protect his stomach from medication side effects. Tan shared that medication costs exceed RM1,800 every three months, while physiotherapy and speech therapy add RM171.40 to RM234 per week. Specialists said in December last year that J’den’s hips had begun shifting due to prolonged muscle stiffness, causing an imbalance in leg length. Doctors have recommended a customised corrective wheelchair to stabilise his posture and support his spine, at a cost of about RM3,750. Another social worker Peggy Lee Kah Kei said the fundraising effort

not be confirmed, according to the staff at the centre. Social worker Tracy Tan said J’den requires constant supervision. “He cannot speak or walk. Most of the time he can only lie down or sit with support, but he can hear our voices. He will sometimes smile when we laugh. But if we raise our voices, he would think we are scolding him and he will start crying,” she told theSun yesterday. J’den attends weekly physiotherapy and speech therapy sessions to maintain muscle function and assist with basic movements. “His muscles are very stiff. Therapy helps loosen them so they do not worsen. “Speech therapy has helped him learn how to swallow food but it is still difficult,” Tan said.

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

months caused life-altering brain injuries, affecting his eyesight and ability to control his limbs. Since then, he has been entirely dependent on others for the simplest daily tasks. He has been under the care of Persatuan Kebajikan Sayap Kasih Malaysia, also known as IQ70Plus, since the age of one, after his mother, who works in Penang, struggled to manage his long-term care alone. J’den’s mother visits whenever possible, particularly during festive periods. Details of J’den’s father could

PETALING JAYA: Eight-year-old J’den K’ng spends his days lying on therapy equipment at a care centre in Jalan Gasing, relying entirely on caregivers to move his stiffened body as he battles the lasting effects of severe brain damage. The centre is appealing for RM30,000 to fund his ongoing medical care. J’den was born a healthy baby but a fall at around the age of three

13,900 alimony arrear cases settled since 2020 KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 13,920 cases of arrears of maintenance involving ex-wives were successfully resolved for the period 2020 to 2025 through various enforcement initiatives by the Malaysian Syariah Judicial Department. syariah lawyers, can represent ex-wives in the Syariah Court through actions such as judgment debtor summons, income detention, committal proceedings, seizure and sale as well as hiwalah procedure to freeze bank account,” she said during an oral question and answer session at the Dewan Negara yesterday. Order since it was introduced in 2022 until last year. Although the mechanism is effective, she said there are several challenges in its implementation, including lack of cooperation from the judgment debtor (ex-husband) to provide employer information as well as insufficient bank account balances to settle the arrears.

Over 9,000 foreign nationals detained KUALA LUMPUR: The Immigration Department detained 9,497 foreign nationals for various offences as part of 2,618 enforcement operations conducted nationwide this year up to March 9. Director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban said 1,158 individuals were detained for offences under Regulation 39(b) of the Immigration Regulations 1963 for abusing the conditions of their passes. He said most of them were found to be abusing the facilities provided by the passes, specifically the temporary employment pass and the social visit pass for activities that were not in accordance with the conditions of the passes. “The immigration authorities take a serious view of the involvement of a small number of foreign nationals who abused the social visit pass by engaging in work activities at premises such as restaurants or factories,” he said in a statement here yesterday. Zakaria added that the five highest nationalities detained for violating the terms of the pass were from Bangladesh with 532 individuals, followed by Thailand with 248, Indonesia with 111, China with 86 and Pakistan with 51. Zakaria said out of 1,158 arrests, 482 were individuals detained for abusing the social visit pass, including 235 Thai nationals, 83 Bangladeshis, 62 China nationals, 62 Indonesians, 13 Pakistanis and 27 other nationals. – Bernama Squabble over mobile phone turns fatal MALACCA: A 25-year-old man died after he was believed to have argued with an acquaintance over a mobile phone in Kampung Sungai Udang here. Central Malacca district police chief ACP Christopher Patit said the victim was found lying on the veranda of his house with three stab wounds to the chest in the 8.30pm incident on Wednesday. “Initial investigations found that the suspect went to the victim’s house to retrieve his mobile phone, but an argument broke out between them. “During the struggle, the victim was believed to have been stabbed in the left chest with a machete,” he said. Christopher said the body was sent to Malacca Hospital for a post-mortem. The case is being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder. – Bernama

Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Marhamah Rosli said the achievement reflected the government’s seriousness in addressing the issue of failure to pay maintenance, which is considered a dereliction of duty that affects the welfare of women and children. She said the resolution was driven by the Family Support Division through its syariah legal and consultation services to claim arrears through negotiation or through the legal process. “The division officers, who are certified

She was replying to Senator Dr Jufitri Joha who wanted to know the statistics on the number of ex-wives who have benefited from the Family Support Division from 2020 to 2025, which was created by the government to ensure that maintenance orders issued by the Syariah Court are complied with and implemented by ex-husbands to their ex-wives and children. Commenting on the latest mechanism, Marhamah said 166 cases have been successfully resolved through the Garnishee

“Another challenge arises when the employer is from the private sector or non Muslims who are not bound by the Syariah Court order,” she said. Apart from legal action, Marhamah said the government also provided an Advance Fund service by channelling RM1.73 million until last December to ensure the welfare of ex-wives and children are safeguarded while awaiting the settlement of arrears. – Bernama

Mohd Fadlee said swift action by firefighters managed to contain the blaze from spreading further, particularly to nearby residential areas. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

Firefighters contain forest fire near Putrajaya toll plaza KUALA LUMPUR: Firefighters battled a forest fire on a hillside near the Putrajaya Toll Plaza along the Kuala Lumpur-Putrajaya Expressway on Wednesday evening. assisted by the Cyberjaya station, was deployed after an emergency call was received at 4.12pm.

using two 60-metre hose lines with engine pumps and firebeaters. No casualties or structures were involved,” he said in a statement. Meanwhile, Mohd Fadlee said swift action by firefighters had managed to contain the blaze from spreading further, particularly to nearby residential areas. – Bernama

He said operations commander senior fire officer II Mohd Fadlee Kamaruddin reported that the fire involved a hillside forest area estimated about 0.8ha. “Firefighting efforts were being carried out

Selangor Fire and Rescue Department operations assistant director Ahmad Mukhlis Mokhtar said a team of 21 personnel from the Seri Kembangan Fire and Rescue Station,

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WITH United Democratic Alliance (Muda) holding its first-ever party elections tomorrow, its acting president Amira Aisya Abd Aziz shared with theSun her thoughts about building a party for young Malaysians, breaking stereotypes in politics and why she believes diversity is key to leadership. theSun : Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got involved in Muda? Amira Aisya: My journey in politics actually didn’t start with me wanting to be a politician. It began back during my university days, at the peak of the fight against (former prime minister) Datuk Seri Najib Razak over 1MDB. That’s when I got involved in student activism, working with Syed Saddiq in Deklarasi Rakyat to meet people and demand accountability. When Syed Saddiq decided to co found Bersatu he invited me to join him, but I didn’t. I grew up in Johor Bahru in a community that always voted for Malay-based parties but I never really believed in race-based politics. However, after the Sheraton Move in 2020, I realised that the system itself needed change. I reached out to Syed Saddiq, suggested forming a new party with young, smart people, and that’s how Muda was born. I quit my job, and together we built the party. Muda is my first political party and I’m proud to still be part of it today. theSun : How has your journey as acting president been so far? Amira Aisya: Leading Muda has been both humbling and meaningful. Democracy isn’t easy. It is noisy and messy, but it’s necessary to build the political culture we want. For Muda it’s not just about winning elections or being in power. It’s about changing how politics is done. When I became acting president in 2023, I knew I was stepping into very big shoes. Syed Saddiq had already led Muda into successful elections, and carrying that trust forward, especially at 28 years of age, was a big responsibility. But what makes me proud is seeing people from diverse backgrounds, different races, women and men stepping forward to take leadership roles in our party elections, showing that Muda has inspired youth to engage in politics, not just for power but also to make a real difference. theSun : Being a young woman in politics comes with its own challenges. How do you navigate that? Amira Aisya: Women in politics often fight two battles – one is for our ideas, the other is for respect. There are moments when people judge you before even hearing your ideas because of your age or gender. If you speak too harshly they think you’re emotional, too softly and they think you’re weak. If you smile too much they think you’re not serious. Social media can be harsh too. Comments often focus on appearance rather than ideas. Women can lead with empathy, patience and the ability to listen, which is something Malaysian Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com the Malaysian

Building party that truly represents young Malaysians o What makes me proud is seeing youths from diverse backgrounds take leadership roles in Muda, motivated to engage in politics not just for power but also to make real difference, says acting president

Amira Aisya said Muda got rid of women’s wings intentionally as the party wanted to show that women could be president of a party, not just lead a wing. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

progressives don’t trust young people why should young people trust progressives? Our challenge in Muda is to make sure our ideas reach them and that we’re part of the conversation, not drowned out by bigger parties. theSun : How do you see Malaysia’s future, especially with young people taking charge? Amira Aisya: I know people feel dejected seeing global issues and local struggles but Malaysia is a young country with enormous potential. We have young Malaysians willing to return from overseas to serve, to protest against corruption and to step into politics despite the risks. Muda reflects this diversity and hope. Our upcoming party elections include people from different races, religions, genders and ages. They’re stepping into leadership not for power but because they believe Malaysia is worth fighting for. That gives me hope that the future of Malaysia is bright, inclusive and led by capable individuals from all walks of life.

making process.

for Muda and talk about policies that matter. But my constituency work keeps me grounded. Seeing single mothers struggle, families affected by floods or children pulled out of school motivates me to fight for meaningful change. These two roles complement each other. They keep me connected to people and give me the platform to make a bigger impact. theSun : How do you inspire youth and women to enter politics? Amira Aisya: When I was growing up, I didn’t see many women in politics to look up to. Mentorship is about more than advice; it’s about opening doors and creating safer spaces for younger women to step into leadership roles. Muda got rid of women’s wings intentionally as we want to show that women can be president of a party, not just lead a wing. In our last six state elections, over 50% of our candidates were women, the first time in Malaysia’s history. It’s about intentionally creating a culture where women are represented in every conversation and decision

politics really needs. Leadership isn’t just about power, it’s about serving and connecting with people. theSun : How does Muda appeal to both young and older generations? Amira Aisya: During the Johor state election I was pleasantly surprised. Of course, young people were excited. They were voting for the first time but people aged 50 and above were supportive, too. Many are tired of the same old politicians who don’t care about real change. Muda offers fresh ideas and a commitment to values like freedom, justice and solidarity. We’ve shown that we’re willing to step away from power if it betrays the people’s mandate. That helps rebuild trust, not just in Muda but also in political institutions overall. theSun : How do you balance your national leadership role with serving your constituency in Puteri Wangsa? Amira Aisya: Politics doesn’t start at the podium or in Parliament; it starts on the ground with real people. My national role allows me to strategise

theSun : What are Muda’s biggest challenges today? Amira Aisya: The biggest challenge is the crisis of trust in politics. Young parties like Muda also face resource limitations. Politics shouldn’t be about who has the biggest war chest. Muda tries to dismantle that perception. We raise funds through community activities like pickleball tournaments, movie nights or selling nasi lemak . This ensures that ordinary Malaysians can be part of the political journey and that Muda is accountable to them, not just the rich. theSun : How do you feel about social media’s role in politics today? Amira Aisya: Social media is great because it allows Malaysians to see what politicians are actually doing. Some say young people don’t know how to vote and blame them for supporting certain parties, but young people are smart. They read, evaluate and make decisions based on what they see. If

FRIDAY | MAR 13, 2026

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Volcano erupts four times in Indonesia

troops for the international security force in Gaza, but this is dependent on the current dynamic with US President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace and the conflict in the Middle East, he said. Indonesia had been prepared to send 20,000 troops but is now ready to deploy 8,000 in phases, with the move to scale back coming in response to pledges by other countries involved in the initiative to send numbers in the hundreds, he said. “The president has instructed us to prepare our troops, and we are ready to act, but we are awaiting developments from the Board of Peace. I cannot confirm anything yet because the situation is very dynamic.” – Bernama

last month that commits them to consult each other if either country is threatened. Indonesia and Australia will work together on intelligence sharing, said Sjafrie, without providing details. The ministers discussed the possibility of developing a defence training facility on the island of Morotai on North Maluku, with a proposal to upgrade its existing defence infrastructure, he said, adding that “we will work together to improve and utilise it”. Sjafrie also said military personnel from countries such as the Philippines, Australia and Singapore would have access to the facility, as well as another in North Kalimantan being developed with Singapore. Indonesia is ready to deploy

remain alert for potential hot clouds, lava avalanches and lahar flows along rivers originating from the volcano’s summit. In other news, Indonesia and Australia are planning to expand their security cooperation to include Japan and Papua New Guinea, said Jakarta’s Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin yesterday after a meeting with his Australian counterpart. Trilateral security arrangements would be developed with Indonesia, Australia and Japan, and between Indonesia, Australia and Papua New Guinea, he said after talks with Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles. The leaders of Indonesia and Australia signed a security treaty

even though the fire has been extinguished,” he said in an email. “We are trying different avenues to get onboard.” The Omani navy has rescued 20 sailors and efforts are underway to rescue the remaining three, the Thai navy said. Thailand’s Foreign Ministry said all 23 crew members were Thai. All Thai vessels have left the Strait of Hormuz and Bangkok has “protested against the violence done to the commercial ships”, said ministry deputy spokesperson Panidol Patchimsawat yesterday. “Please be assured that we are on a mission to find the missing three.” Since strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran in late February ignited the Middle East war, the Islamic republic has launched its own attacks against its oil-exporting neighbours. The strikes have threatened shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and plunged the global energy economy into crisis. The strait is a crucial waterway through which a fifth of global oil supplies usually pass. – AFP appliances,” he said yesterday. Tan emphasised that as the global environment becomes less certain and stable, fuel disruptions and price fluctuations are becoming more frequent. These effects are felt in Singapore, which imports all of the natural gas needed to fuel about 95% of its electricity generation, he added. In the meantime, he stressed that the government stands ready to support households and businesses as necessary. “Announced at Budget 2026, eligible Housing and Development Board households will receive 1.5 times the regular amount of U-Save rebates, or up to S$570 (RM1,755) in the financial year. “As the situation in the Middle East is evolving, we are watching closely, especially for secondary effects of disruption.” – Bernama “Mount Semeru erupted again at 5.28am, with the ash column observed at around 600m above the summit, or about 4,276m above sea level,” he said, according to Antara News Agency. Liswanto said the volcano erupted again at 5.46am, producing an ash column reaching around 300m above the summit. He added that Mount Semeru remains at Level III (Alert) volcanic activity status. Indonesia’s Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation has advised the public not to carry out any activities within a 13km radius in the southeast sector along Besuk Kobokan from the summit. Residents are also warned to

BANGKOK: Three crew members are “believed to be trapped” aboard a Thai bulk carrier that was hit by two projectiles on Wednesday while travelling through the Strait of Hormuz, the vessel’s owner said. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said on Wednesday they have struck the Thai-registered Mayuree Naree , as well as a Liberia-flagged vessel, in the strait because the ships had ignored “warnings”. The Thai ship was struck while transiting through the Gulf waterway, after departing Khalifa port in the United Arab Emirates. “The strikes damaged the vessel’s engine room and caused a fire,” said Thai transport company Precious Shipping in a statement on Wednesday. “Three crew members are reported missing and believed to be trapped in the engine room,” it said, adding that authorities are working to rescue them. “Unfortunately, this remains the case,” the firm’s managing director Khalid Hashim said yesterday. “We still have not been able to get anyone to board our ship, JAKARTA: Mount Semeru, located on the border of Lumajang and Malang regencies in East Java, erupted four times yesterday, with the highest ash column reaching 600m above the summit. According to Mount Semeru Observation Post officer Liswanto, the first eruption occurred at 12.27am Western Indonesian Time, followed by another at 12.31am, although the eruption columns were not visually observed. o Mount Semeru at Level III (Alert) activity status, says officer

Three believed trapped on Thai ship hit in Gulf

LIMITED SUPPLY ... People queueing to buy liquefied petroleum gas cylinders for domestic use at a gas agency office in Chennai, India on Wednesday after tighter controls were ordered over natural and cooking gas on Tuesday following import disruptions caused by the Middle East war. – AFPPIC Beijing-Pyongyang train services resume

BEIJING: Passenger train services between China and North Korea were set to resume yesterday following a six-year hiatus after the link was suspended during the Covid-19 pandemic, railway authorities and tour agencies said. China is North Korea’s largest trading partner and a vital source of diplomatic, economic and political support for the isolated nuclear state. China Railway said regular train services would resume yesterday, with the first set to depart in the evening from the Chinese capital bound for Pyongyang. The K27 train would make a few

would be a separate daily service between Dandong and Pyongyang. Travel agents for an official ticketing booth in Beijing said on Tuesday anyone with a valid visa can now buy train tickets to the North. Trains will run in both directions between Beijing and Pyongyang every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, China Railway said. Entry and exit procedures would be completed at the Dandong border crossing and at Sinuiju in North Korea, it added. Tickets are available for offline purchase at several Chinese cities, it said. – AFP cases of measles in NSW this year as of yesterday, compared with 37 cases reported for 2025 and 18 in 2024. The neighbouring state of Victoria has reported 21 measles cases this year, compared with 36 in 2025 and 17 in 2024. Health Protection NSW executive director Vicky Sheppeard said the report should serve as a reminder of why vaccination is vital. – Bernama-Xinhua

stops, including at the port city of Tianjin, and then head northeast to Dandong, a Chinese city bordering North Korea. Wagons holding passengers bound for Pyongyang will then be attached to another train there, taking them across the border to the nearby North Korean city of Sinuiju, said Rowan Beard from Young Pioneer Tours, a company specialising in North Korea travel. He said those wagons, as well as North Korean domestic carriages, would be attached to a new train that would head to Pyongyang. China Railway also said there measles overseas, including 32 who travelled to Southeast Asian countries. Eighteen cases were linked to a person who acquired measles overseas, with the other eight cases having no known source of infection. According to the latest data from the National Notifiable Disease Surveillance System maintained by the Australian Centre for Disease Control, there has been 25 confirmed

Singapore sets up fuel stockpile SINGAPORE: A fuel stockpile has been established here, comprising gas and diesel that power generation companies can use should gas supplies be severely disrupted due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Energy and Science and Technology Minister-in-Charge Tan See Leng said the measure is one of the government’s multiple lines of defence to safeguard Singapore’s energy security. Nevertheless, he noted that while some measures are in place to ensure Singapore has sufficient energy, global gas prices continue to rise due to the conflict. “We must expect electricity prices to increase in the coming months,” he noted. “Households and businesses have a part to play because they can offset some of this impact by conserving electricity and adopting more energy-efficient

Australia measles surge linked to Southeast Asia SYDNEY: A recent surge in measles cases in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) has mainly been driven by infections acquired in Southeast Asia, Xinhua reported, quoting health authorities yesterday. The NSW Health Department said authorities were notified of 60 measles cases in the state between Jan 1, 2025 and March 7 this year. Of those cases, 34 contracted