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Stakeholder says EV adoption strategic step for country’s sustainable transport future. Electric mobility should be part of long-term plan

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Dry weather, fuel costs impact paddy harvest Report on h page 3 Kedah farmers say challenging conditions leave part of crop uncollected, affecting quality and timelines.

HARVEST HURDLES ... Up to 30% of yield remains unharvested as growers navigate petrol, diesel spikes and high temperatures.– MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

Domestic tourism adjusts to rising petrol prices Shorter trips and cautious spending as operators face higher operating expenses: Industry players

Water strain not just caused by data centres Mismanaged resources, pollution and forest loss key factors, say experts.

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Malaysia committed to delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza: PM PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has criticised the global “indifference and hypocrisy” over Gaza, saying Malaysia will continue to uphold a principled stand in defending Palestinians while facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. beginning April, following assurances from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi that access would be facilitated through the Rafah border crossing. The Rafah crossing remains one of the few critical entry points for aid into Gaza where humanitarian conditions have worsened amid ongoing restrictions and conflict.

Employment pass issues for tech talent being addressed PUTRAJAYA: The Digital Ministry has assured that issues related to the processing of Employment Pass (EP) for technology talent are being actively and comprehensively scrutinised to ensure the smooth running of the global business services (GBS) ecosystem. The ministry said it takes a serious view of the concerns raised by industry stakeholders, with various engagement sessions being actively implemented in collaboration with relevant agencies, including the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC). “This approach aims to fully understand the concerns raised, in addition to identifying suitable short-and long-term improvement measures,” it said in a statement yesterday. It added that the GBS sector is one of the key drivers of the nation’s digital economy, contributing significantly to investment inflows, high-value job creation and the strengthening of Malaysia’s position as a competitive regional digital hub. It said the MDEC has intensified efforts to address a significant surge in new applications, including increasing manpower capacity to meet growing demand. “In addition, the MDEC is also engaging closely with key industry associations, such as GBS Malaysia (Digital Global Business Services Council Malaysia, a chapter of Pikom) and Contact Centre Association of Malaysia, to apprise stakeholders of the latest development.” The ministry emphasised its commitment to strengthening inter-agency coordination while implementing ongoing improvement processes to further accelerate smoother approvals. “Further updates will be provided from time to time in line with its review and engagement with all the relevant parties.” – Bernama Anwar also called on Malaysians to pray for the smooth and safe delivery of the aid to the people of Gaza. which continues to hinder humanitarian efforts.” He said Malaysia would remain resolute in defending the rights of the oppressed and ensuring that assistance reaches those in need despite mounting global challenges. KUALA LUMPUR: The government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the people and ensuring the stability of commodity prices despite rising global oil prices following the conflict in West Asia. In a post on its Facebook page yesterday, the Finance Ministry said the government is continuing its efforts through the Subsidised Petrol Control System (SKPS) and the Subsidised Diesel Control System (SKDS) which provide targeted fuel subsidies for the land and water public transport sectors as well as the transportation of selected goods. “These measures help keep transportation costs under control and ensure that commodity prices remain stable.” According to an infographic shared, the retail price of subsidised petrol under SKPS for public transport and goods transportation has been maintained at RM2.05 per litre. Under SKDS the subsidised diesel price for the land transport sector remains at RM1.88 per litre while diesel price for goods transportation continues to be capped at RM2.15 per litre. It said it would continue to monitor global developments and adopt a prudent approach to protect the well-being of the people. – Bernama Efforts to stabilise commodity prices

Anwar stressed that Malaysia would not yield to obstacles, particularly those posed by the Israeli regime, in its efforts to deliver aid. “Malaysia will never bow to any barrier, especially from the Zionist Israeli regime

“President El-Sisi has given a clear guarantee and commitment to ease access, enabling urgent assistance to reach more than 100,000 residents in Gaza who are in dire need,” Anwar said in a statement.

He said Malaysia is set to channel 374 tonnes of humanitarian assistance to Gaza

Rise in fuel prices impacting domestic tourism o Higher living expenses due to increase in petrol, diesel costs forcing consumers to limit discretionary travel: Academic

than abandoning travel altogether. “The community does not see this as a reason to stop travelling. Instead, they are adjusting to be more prudent and efficient. “More people are planning routes carefully, combining multiple locations into single trips, sharing logistics in convoys and reducing unnecessary movement.” Tourism operators and rental services are also reshaping offerings, focusing on short distance trips, weekend packages and cost friendly local camping concepts. Farman highlighted the importance of user education in reducing fuel consumption, including prudent driving, load management and careful trip planning. He urged policymakers to support the sector through practical measures, particularly those aligned with the Visit Malaysia Year initiatives. “The challenge of rising fuel prices highlights the need to strengthen the RV tourism ecosystem, including more RV-friendly stops, overnight parking and an organised campsite network. Toll discounts for caravan users, who currently pay Class 3 rates, could also help. “Improving basic facilities and RV infrastructure will allow travellers to continue supporting domestic tourism despite rising costs.” Farman added that introducing locally produced motor campers could further cut fuel consumption and operating expenses. “Collaboration among operators through shared logistics, combined packages, targeted marketing, seasonal discounts and flexible bookings can also help attract price-sensitive domestic tourists.”

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

expenses in fuel, maintenance and logistics. “Many operators are forced to pass these costs on to customers through higher package prices. But in a climate of shrinking demand this can backfire, risking reduced bookings and competitiveness.” For Mohd Rahimi, keeping Malaysia’s tourism resilient requires operators to adopt innovative strategies. “Operators need to optimise operations with technology, for example, smart booking systems and efficient route management can reduce fuel usage. “Value-based tourism products, including short-haul packages, ecotourism and community-based experiences, provide affordable options.” Road-based tourism, particularly the recreational vehicle (RV) and camper van sector, is feeling the pinch of lower demand sharply. Malaysia Motorhome and Caravan Association president Farman Othman said the industry is highly exposed because its entire ecosystem depends on road travel. “With fuel costs rising, RV owners, rental users and tour package operators are naturally more cautious in planning trips this year,” he said, adding that travellers are already choosing shorter journeys, nearby destinations and reduced travel durations to control expenses. Yet the RV community is adapting rather

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s domestic tourism sector is facing a perfect storm as soaring fuel prices and steep cuts in petrol and diesel subsidy quotas force travellers to rethink their plans, putting tourism operators under mounting financial strain. Higher fuel costs are hitting consumers’ wallets directly, especially for daily transport, prompting many to scale back on non-essential journeys, a shift already having an impact on domestic tourism. “Subsidy cuts result in higher living costs, particularly for transportation. As fuel prices rise, consumers naturally limit discretionary travel,” said Universiti Malaysia Terengganu Tourism Management Programme head Dr Mohd Rahimi Abdul Halim. “This behavioural shift aligns with the theory of demand elasticity, where demand for non essential tourism products drops as prices increase. Consequently, local tourist destinations, homestay operators and recreational service providers may see fewer visitors in 2026.” Tourism service operators are also grappling with rising operational costs. Sectors reliant on diesel – from tour boats to coach buses and tour vans – are facing higher

Mohd Rahimi said as demand for non-essential tourism products drops when prices increase, local tourist destinations, homestay operators and recreational service providers may see fewer visitors this year. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

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Heat, diesel costs leave Kedah paddy unharvested

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Nearly a third of Kedah’s paddy crops remain unharvested as scorching heat and rising diesel prices make farming increasingly difficult, raising concerns over Malaysia’s low rice self sufficiency level of just 56%, warned the Malaysian Paddy Farmers Brotherhood Organisation. Its chairman Abdul Rashid Ayob said prolonged extreme temperatures have disrupted harvesting cycles and damaged yields, particularly in northern districts such as Kota Setar and Pendang, where temperatures have reached 41°C to 42°C in recent weeks. “Right now, harvesting is still ongoing, but about 20% to 30% of the crops have not yet been harvested. “For paddy, it becomes too dry. When it is too dry, the yield drops and the grain becomes lighter. It is not just paddy , other crops are affected too because extreme heat stunts growth.” Rashid said the situation is particularly severe in areas where even 36°C to 37°C is already considered excessively hot for

o Up to 30% of crops not reaped as high temperatures, rising fuel costs hit yields, raising food security concerns

ratio is now only around 56%. Our dependence on imported rice is already high. If farmers start pulling back because they cannot absorb the costs, that is what we fear,” he said. Meanwhile, the Malaysian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association (Presma) declined to comment when asked whether the slowdown in agricultural production had driven up food prices, citing an upcoming meeting with the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry this week. Presma had previously warned that mamak operators were facing cost increases of 10% to 30% for certain goods due to supply chain disruptions, rising logistics expenses and prolonged global uncertainty, including the ongoing conflict in Iran.

“Other sectors have received specific support, but for paddy farmers there is still no focused mechanism. We are also among the biggest contributors to the country’s food supply.” The organisation hopes the government will deliver more targeted aid for farmers rather than relying on broad agricultural measures that fail to reflect the sector’s critical role in national food security. Rashid warned the situation could worsen if major rice-exporting countries also face climate-related disruptions or global uncertainties, tightening supply while Malaysia remains dependent on imports for a significant share of its rice. “Malaysia’s rice self-sufficiency

Production cost for one hectare is about RM700. If the increase is only RM50, the gap is very big.” He said farmers have absorbed rising costs over several planting seasons, but government support remains limited and slow. “We are not rejecting government policies. What we are asking for is a proper solution and a suitable alternative that can be implemented quickly.

crop development. “The prolonged heat has started to affect crop cycles, slowing growth and reducing quality,” he added. Compounding the situation, diesel price increases have raised costs for mechanised farming operations such as ploughing, harvesting and transporting paddy. “Everything uses diesel – tractors, lorries, machinery. That is what is making things very difficult for us.

Weather volatility puts crops at risk PETALING JAYA: A government study has found that up to half of Malaysia’s fruit and vegetable crops could be lost at the farm level under unpredictable weather, highlighting the fragile state of the country’s food supply. The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry told theSun that the findings were based on a Food Loss Index study conducted by the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (Mardi) to measure food loss levels nationwide. “Post-harvest losses at the on-farm production stage for the fruits and vegetables sector are estimated at around 14% under normal weather conditions and can rise to as much as 50% if harvesting occurs during the rainy season or under unpredictable weather conditions,” the ministry said in a statement. On March 24, Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the government was stepping up preparedness measures to safeguard national food security amid geopolitical tensions in West Asia and the hot weather conditions. “The efforts include improving supply management efficiency, strengthening the agro-food value chain and implementing mitigation measures, with close coordination between ministries and industry players to ensure continued availability of essential food supplies.” The ministry said the study focused on selected commodities such as pineapple, watermelon and mustard greens, highlighting the vulnerability of perishable produce to environmental conditions at the farm level. “The initiative forms part of efforts to develop a structured indicator to better quantify food loss across the country’s agri-food system, particularly at the production stage,” the ministry added. Meanwhile, Mardi is conducting a follow-up study at the off-farm level to assess losses across the supply chain. “A follow-up study at the off-farm supply chain level, covering processes such as collection, packaging and distribution, is being carried out by Mardi and is expected to be completed in April. “The study will later expand to include all agri-food commodity groups, including livestock and fisheries, to develop a comprehensive Food Loss Index for the sector.” The findings underscore how food losses can occur early in the supply chain, before produce reaches wholesale, retail or consumers. Weather instability has increasingly affected agricultural output. Last week, the Health Ministry reported that several areas across Kedah, Penang, Perak, Pahang and Perlis were under a Level 1 heat alert, with parts of Kedah escalating to Level 2, where temperatures exceeded 37°C and could reach up to 40°C after several consecutive days of heat. – by Faiz Ruzman

Call to grow vegetables amid price surge

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Malaysians are being urged to grow their own vegetables to cope with rising food costs, as prices are expected to spike in the coming months amid global supply pressures. Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu warned that geopolitical conflicts in West Asia are no longer a distant concern, with disruptions to global food supply chains set to directly affect households in Malaysia. “Conflicts in the region may seem far removed, but their impact can reach our dining tables,” he said, highlighting how supply disruptions are tightening availability and driving up costs. In a statement yesterday, Mohamad called on Malaysians to take practical steps at the household level, including cultivating basic food items at home wherever possible. “Even with limited space, plant what you can, chillies, vegetables, salad. It may seem small, but it helps reduce dependence and benefits the family,” he said. Mohamad added that the government will continue to strengthen the national food system to ensure sufficient supply and safeguard public access, describing it as an ongoing responsibility. “What matters is that we all play our part. Start with what we have. God willing, small efforts today will become a stronger foundation for the future.” The call echoes concerns raised by the Consumers Association of Penang (CAP), whose natural farming coordinator N. V. Subbarow warned that a surge in vegetable prices could be imminent, driven by global conflicts, rising production costs and climate-related challenges. “Vegetable prices are already very high, and further increases could be just around the corner. Malaysians must start growing their own vegetables instead of just complaining,” he said. CAP cited warnings from growers in Cameron Highlands that vegetable prices could rise by up to 50% in the short term due to escalating costs linked to conflicts in the Middle East. Prices are expected to stabilise later but remain about 30% higher than current levels. Subbarow said farmers are under mounting pressure from rising fertiliser and transport costs, as well as increasing labour expenses as foreign workers demand higher wages. “These factors point to a more challenging

Malaysians have been urged to take practical steps at home, including cultivating basic food items wherever possible. – MASRY CHE ANI/THE SUN

agricultural output,” he said, adding that higher natural gas prices directly affect fertiliser costs, which in turn threaten crop yields if usage is reduced. “This could turn a food affordability crisis into a food availability crisis,” he warned, pointing to key staples such as maize, rice, soybean and wheat. In response, CAP is promoting urban gardening as a practical solution. “A wide variety of crops, including okra, brinjal, chillies and leafy greens such as sawi , kangkung , kailan and bayam , can be easily grown at home. Herbs like mint, pegaga , kesum and selom are also suitable for small scale cultivation,” he said. Subbarow added that household items such as milk cartons, plastic bottles and small containers can be repurposed for shallow rooted plants, while larger containers such as biscuit tins, oil cans and water bottles are suitable for deeper-rooted crops. “With adequate sunlight, water and compost, anyone can grow vegetables, even in small spaces such as balconies,” he said. CAP said adopting urban gardening practices can help Malaysians better manage rising living costs while improving food security at the household level.

outlook for consumers in terms of food affordability,” he said. To ease the burden, CAP is encouraging households to grow their own vegetables and herbs, even in limited spaces. “You don’t need a large plot of land. Vegetables can be grown in soil using natural methods, which can help cut costs,” he said, adding that kitchen waste can be composted into nutrient-rich fertiliser. Global trends further underscore the urgency. Food and Agriculture Organization projections indicate world food demand could rise by 70% by 2050, driven largely by increasing incomes in Asia, Eastern Europe and Latin America. At the same time, climate crises continue to disrupt food production worldwide, with extreme weather damaging crops, livelihoods and supply chains, contributing to rising food prices and growing food insecurity. Subbarow said fertiliser prices have surged even faster than food prices, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions including the war in Ukraine and ongoing Middle East conflicts. “These disruptions have reduced global supplies, increased costs and threatened

MONDAY | MAR 30, 2026

4 ‘Water woes caused by mismanagement’

Planning vital to reduce impact on resources: Educator PETALING JAYA: Not all data centres place the same strain on water resources, with planning decisions such as location, design and technology playing a critical role in determining their overall impact, experts say. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia property economics and finance associate professor Dr Muhammad Najib Razali said global studies show that while data centres are often seen as “clean” digital infrastructure, their water use can vary dramatically. Water use can vary greatly, depending on the cooling design, workload intensity and geographic location, he said. “This means two data centres performing similar functions may have different water impacts depending on how and where they are built.” He added that most of the water is used to cool servers, which generate enormous heat as they run non-stop. “Thermal management systems account for a large share of operational resource demand, meaning computing expansion directly increases energy and water requirements.” In many facilities, particularly in warmer climates, cooling relies on evaporative systems, where water absorbs heat and then evaporates to release it. “Hotter climates require more intensive cooling, which directly translates into higher water demand.” He also highlighted that a data centre’s water footprint goes beyond the facility itself. Electricity generation needed to power these centres consumes large amounts of water at power plants. “This means the indirect water embedded in the energy supply could rival or even exceed onsite water use,” he said, adding that this often overlooked “energy–water nexus” is crucial when assessing sustainability. The rise of AI and high-performance computing is widening the gap. More intensive workloads place greater strain on cooling systems and energy supply. “Computing expansion, particularly driven by AI, is transforming data centres into facilities that require large and sustained water inputs.” Najib stressed that early planning is key to reducing water impact. “Planning decisions such as siting facilities in more suitable locations or adopting alternative cooling technologies could significantly reduce water demand.” He said as Malaysia develops data centre clusters in Johor, Selangor and Cyberjaya, these considerations will only grow in importance. “Early planning is far more effective than retrofitting solutions later.” – By Harith Kamal

the core. Forest cover is now lower than it was then.” Piarapakaran argued that Malaysia’s core challenge is governance, not scarcity. “It is a fact that we have sufficient surface water, but we fail miserably in managing it. This will not be an industry-driven problem but a failure of resource management.” The debate over data centres’ water consumption has intensified as Malaysia positions itself as a regional technology hub. A surge in investments over the past year, driven by global technology firms expanding cloud and AI infrastructure in Southeast Asia, has fuelled concern. Industry observers say without careful planning, such growth could strain the national grid and water supply, potentially causing disruptions. In February, amid these concerns, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim told the Dewan Rakyat that Malaysia has restricted new data centre projects not linked to AI. He said projections by the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry indicate that current capacity will remain adequate for the next one to two years. He also said longer-term solutions are being explored, including regional energy connectivity initiatives. He also highlighted the potential for integrating industries through resource recovery initiatives. “While we micromanage to mitigate, we could link up different industry groups via resource recovery efforts, which will be an added advantage to Malaysia as a manufacturing hub.” Beyond efficiency standards, he emphasised that broader water planning must continue in parallel. “Raw water security planning and policy implementation will have to be carried out continuously to support changing water demand between domestic, industry and agriculture sectors.” Ultimately, he said the goal is not to restrict growth, but to ensure it is sustainable.

“The strained water resources situation is very much linked to loss of forest cover and rising pollution. “This results in reduced raw water availability while treatment costs increase.” His comments come as scrutiny intensifies over the water footprint of data centres, which global studies show can be heavy users of water for cooling. However, he urged policymakers and the public to view future industries, including data centres, as part of a broader category of water, energy and resource intensive industries that must be managed responsibly. “The best approach is to guide these industries to operate sustainably and not shy away from them.” On concerns that industrial water use could threaten domestic supply, Piarapakaran emphasised that public access remains protected under law. “Domestic water supply is a secured priority under the Water Services Industry Act 2006. In a crisis, the immediate concern will be social stability,” he noted. He added that extreme weather events could pose a far greater threat than industry-driven demand. “We need to anticipate crises such as the 1998 El Niño that shook our water supply to

o Situation linked to loss of forest cover and rising pollution, says Association of Water and Energy Research

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Mismanaged resources, rising pollution and shrinking forests—not data centres—are fueling Malaysia’s water woes, experts warn, even as the nation races to become a regional tech hub. According to Association of Water and Energy Research president S. Piarapakaran, it is a “misconception” that large-scale digital investments alone could trigger water shortages. “Every investment, especially those that consume utilities such as water, natural gas or electricity, must be vetted and approved. “An approval process ensures the utility can meet the demand.” He stressed that the real drivers of water stress are long-standing structural issues.

Call to prioritise sustainability in tech growth PETALING JAYA: To become Southeast Asia’s tech powerhouse, Malaysia must make data centres compete on water efficiency, putting sustainability at the heart of growth, experts say. Association of Water and Energy Research president S. Piarapakaran called for stricter and evolving standards as the nation positions itself as a regional technology hub. competition between data centres, which would give room for improvement on voluntary WUE achievements.” He also called for regular policy reviews to ensure alignment with global best practices. The call comes amid a surge in data centre investments in Malaysia, driven by rising demand for cloud computing and AI.

Universiti Teknologi Malaysia property economics and finance associate professor Dr Muhammad Najib Razali said global studies show that data centres consume vast amounts of water, especially to cool servers that run 24/7. Considering these pressures, Piarapakaran emphasised the need for a targeted and industry-specific approach. “We have raised the need to micromanage mitigation to be tailor-made for different types of industries. Operational differences make it harder to manage at a macro level.”

“We have suggested to the government a pragmatic approach. Firstly, they must impose mandatory water usage efficiency (WUE) standards with a clause for future improvements,” he said. WUE measures how efficiently a system, such as a data centre or a farm, uses water, comparing consumption with the productive output generated. He argued that competition could drive data centres to improve performance. “Allow competitive or sustainability

“If we aspire to be a hub for data centres in Asean, we must find ways to make this sector more sustainable.” – By Harith Kamal Education Department orders schools to keep students hydrated KUALA NERUS: The Terengganu Education Department has as pipe leaks in schools, are addressed promptly.”

He was speaking after inspecting a school session at Sekolah Kebangsaan Bukit Tumbuh near here yesterday. Kamsah said weather conditions in Terengganu remain manageable, with maximum temperatures recorded at around 33°C. As such, there is currently no need to implement home-based teaching and learning, unlike in some areas in Kedah, he said. However, he noted that guidelines have been issued to allow flexibility in school attire during hot weather. “Students may be exempted from wearing ties or fully buttoned uniforms, and school heads and principals are given the discretion to allow sports attire or appropriate T-shirts if conditions become more extreme.” – Bernama

instructed all schools in the state to ensure sufficient drinking water is provided to students to cope with the hot weather. Its director Kamsah @ Kamal Mohamed said boarding schools must ensure 24-hour access to drinking water, including through the use of filtration systems and other facilities. He said the department’s priority is to ensure all students receive adequate hydration throughout the school day and during co-curricular activities in order to prevent heat-related illnesses. The department has instructed 507 schools to provide clean and sufficient drinking water for 258,588 students across the state. “We have also taken proactive steps by working with strategic partners to ensure any issues, such

Kamsah said weather conditions in Terengganu remain manageable, with maximum temperatures recorded at around 33°C. – BERNAMAPIC

MONDAY | MAR 30, 2026 | 5

Tuan Yang Terutama TUN DATUK SERI PANGLIMA (DR.) MUSA BIN HAJI AMAN S.M.N., P.S.M., S.P.D.K., S.P.M.B., D.G.S.M., D.A., P.G.D.K., J.M.N., J.P. Yang Di-Pertua Negeri Sabah Sempena Ulang Tahun Kelahiran Rasmi Yang Ke-75 Pada 30 Mac 2026 bersamaan 10 Syawal 1447 Hijrah

Daripada Lembaga Pengarah, Pengurusan Dan Kakitangan

MONDAY | MAR 30, 2026

6

Shift to EVs shows long-term strategy: Auto leader

Chicken processing firm fined RM30,000 ALOR SETAR: A chicken slaughtering company in Bukit Pinang was fined RM30,000 by the Sessions Court here yesterday for failing to comply with industrial effluent discharge standards in Alor Setar. Kedah Environment Department director Sharifah Zakiah Syed Sahab said the company was imposed the fine after pleading guilty to two charges under the Environmental Quality Act 1974. On the first count, the company was charged with releasing effluent containing concentrations of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5 at 20°C), suspended solids and ammonia nitrogen exceeding the limits set in Standard B, Fifth Schedule. The second charge was for releasing effluent containing chemical oxygen demand exceeding the limits set in Standard B, Seventh Schedule. The offences were detected during an integrated enforcement operation conducted on July 22 last year, during which department officers collected samples from the Final Discharge Point at the company’s industrial effluent treatment system. The samples were later analysed by the Chemistry Department, confirming breaches of environmental regulations. Sessions Court judge N. Priscilla Hemamalini imposed the fine after the company director, representing the firm, pleaded guilty to both charges. – Bernama Five arrested after thrashing victim’s car KOTA KINABALU: Police have detained five men over a widely spread video showing a group hitting a vehicle at a traffic light junction near Jesselton Quay here. Acting Kota Kinabalu district police chief Supt Syed Lot Syed Ab Rahman said a 30-year-old teacher lodged a police report at 2.35pm yesterday claiming to be the victim in the incident, Bernama reported. He said the incident is believed to have occurred at 1.45pm on the same day after the teacher had attended an event at the Sabah International Convention Centre. “Preliminary investigations found that while the complainant was heading to his vehicle in a parking area near a warehouse belonging to a courier company at Kota Kinabalu Port, he encountered several individuals believed to be employees of the company. “A verbal provocation took place before the situation escalated, causing the complainant to reverse his vehicle and inadvertently collide with another vehicle. “Several individuals chased the complainant’s vehicle and acted aggressively by smashing the driver’s side window and the rear windscreen.” Syed Lot said the case is being probed under Section 427 and Section 506 of the Penal Code.

for cleaner energy. As charging demand rises, it creates greater incentives for renewable energy development.” Nagel highlighted the National Energy Transition Roadmap as a key framework guiding the shift towards cleaner energy. Over time, as the grid incorporates more renewables, EVs automatically become cleaner, a flexibility that conventional vehicles cannot match. Beyond long-term emissions reductions, he said EVs offer immediate environmental benefits in urban areas. “Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, eliminating localised air pollutants, which is crucial in dense cities such as Kuala Lumpur,” he noted. “They also generate less heat waste and are significantly quieter, helping to reduce noise pollution.” He said these advantages improve air quality and urban liveability, reinforcing EVs’ role not only in climate mitigation, but also in enhancing quality of life in Malaysian cities. As Malaysia navigates its energy transition, Nagel emphasised that EV adoption and cleaner energy development must progress hand in hand to deliver meaningful and lasting impact.

o Benefits of switch include fuel savings, superior driving dynamics, reduced maintenance, lower life cycle costs

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

charging manufacturing capabilities and partnerships to develop Malaysian talent in EV technology. “We are building an ecosystem for sustainable premium mobility that will serve Malaysia for decades to come, regardless of short-term market fluctuations.” Addressing concerns that Malaysia may not yet be ready for large-scale EV adoption due to its reliance on fossil fuels, Nagel maintained that EVs still deliver environmental benefits. “Even today, an electric vehicle produces a lower total carbon footprint compared with a comparable combustion engine vehicle, and this advantage grows when powered by renewable energy.” He added that delaying EV adoption until the energy grid is fully renewable risks creating a chicken-and-egg dilemma. He said rising demand for EVs could instead drive investment in renewable energy, energy storage and grid modernisation. “EV adoption strengthens the business case infrastructure,

PETALING JAYA: Surging global fuel prices may spark short-term interest in electric vehicles (EVs), but industry experts say Malaysia’s shift to electric mobility is a long-term strategic move, not a reaction to market swings. BMW Group Malaysia managing director Benjamin Nagel said rising fuel costs might encourage some consumers and businesses to explore EVs, but the decision to go electric should not be seen as a stopgap response. “Electric mobility is fundamentally a long-term story. “The value proposition goes far beyond fuel savings. It includes superior driving dynamics, reduced maintenance, lower life cycle costs, a more refined driving experience and zero tailpipe emissions.” Since introducing plug-in hybrid vehicles in 2015, BMW Group Malaysia has pursued a strategic, long-term approach, investing in local

Nagel said rising demand for EVs could drive investment in renewable energy, energy storage and grid modernisation. – MASRY CHE ANI/THE SUN

Power sector’s fossil fuel dependence blunts environmental benefits PETALING JAYA: Even as Malaysians switch to electric vehicles (EVs), the country’s dependence on fossil fuels for electricity means the move may do little to cut greenhouse gas emissions, environmental experts say. The picture improves in regions with cleaner energy. In Sarawak, where renewables account for roughly 60% of electricity generation, EV emissions drop sharply to just 68gCO ĸ e/km. “Effective solutions require more greenery and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, not just cleaner vehicles.” Adam also urged the government to commit to phasing out coal and fossil gas from the national grid by 2050, adding that without these measures, EV adoption alone would fail to deliver significant emissions reductions.

However, EVs do offer other environmental benefits, particularly in reducing air and noise pollution. Adam cited a joint study by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air and Greenpeace Malaysia, which found that air pollution contributes to an estimated 32,000 premature deaths annually and economic losses of RM303 billion each year. He emphasised that EV adoption should complement, not replace, public transport, calling for a comprehensive national strategy to enhance connectivity, including better first and last-mile solutions in urban, suburban and rural areas. “This should include the rapid expansion of buses, trams and emerging options such as autonomous rapid transit.”

He raised concerns over the growing popularity of large electric SUVs, which consume more resources to manufacture and operate. He proposed a tiered annual tax to discourage oversized models. 0 EVs below 1,500kg: RM500 0 EVs 1,500kg–1,800kg: RM1,500 0 EVs above 1,800kg: RM3,000 He also suggested introducing congestion charges in city centres with strong public transport. “Without the right policies in place, EV adoption risks replicating existing transport challenges rather than solving them.” – BY KIRTINEE RAMESH

“This demonstrates that EVs can only make a meaningful dent in emissions if Malaysia commits to phasing out fossil fuels from the power sector.” Adam said national policies, including the National Energy Transition Roadmap, continue to prioritise fossil gas, potentially undermining decarbonisation efforts across energy and transport sectors. On whether EVs could reduce urban heat in Malaysian cities, he noted that the impact would be minimal. “EVs produce less heat than conventional vehicles due to higher efficiency, but the main culprit for urban heat is poor city planning and the replacement of green spaces with asphalt.

RimbaWatch director Adam Farhan said EVs could only deliver meaningful climate benefits if Malaysia shifts its energy mix away from coal and fossil gas. He cited the group’s January report, “The Contribution of Malaysia’s Automotive Sector to Climate Change”, which found that EVs in Peninsular Malaysia produce more emissions than conventional petrol and diesel cars when full life cycle emissions are considered. “On average, internal combustion engine vehicles emit about 166gCO ĸ e/km while EVs here reach around 181gCO ĸ e/km. “This is largely because nearly 80% of our electricity still comes from fossil fuels.”

MONDAY | MAR 30, 2026

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Singapore will not choose sides, says PM Wong

o City-state to pursue open, inclusive approach

cooperation with both countries. “It is also true for Asean, and that is why it is important for us to engage them actively, not just bilaterally, but also in shaping regional affairs,” he said. On the conflicts in West Asia, Wong said he and his counterparts from Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong share deep concern about the situation, in particular regarding the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. “Everyone in Asia is very concerned, because as you all know, the Strait of Hormuz is a critical source from which oil and gas in Asia is consumed. “Long-term blockage of the strait will have an impact on supplies and we are talking downstream supplies in a whole range of industries, not just in the oil markets.” – Bernama

and New Zealand during the Asean Summit each year. “That is Asean’s way. We want to engage all of the major powers, even if they have challenges among themselves, we engage them in positive, constructive dialogue, engagement, and we continue to find common ground to deepen our cooperation. “This is a consensus among Asean countries that we do not want to choose sides and we want to continue to keep our region open and inclusive,” he told reporters at a press conference on Saturday to wrap up his four-day official visit to China. A video of the press conference is available on the Channel News Asia YouTube page. According to Wong, Singapore sees China and Japan as equally important partners to the republic and acknowledges the importance to continue strengthening its

Nepal arrests former energy minister KATHMANDU: Nepal’s former energy minister Deepak Khadka was arrested yesterday as part of an investigation into money laundering, police said. The announcement came a day after ex prime minister KP Sharma Oli and former home minister Ramesh Lekhak were arrested over alleged roles in a crackdown on anti-corruption protesters in September. Khadka “was arrested this morning in a case relating to money laundering”, said Central Investigation Bureau spokesman Shiva Kumar Shrestha. Nepal’s Department of Money Laundering Investigation will oversee the probe, he said. The youth-led uprising in September began over a brief social media ban but grew to include longstanding frustration over corruption and economic hardship. At least 76 people were killed in a crackdown on Sept 8 and 9, according to a commission. Demonstrators set fire to the parliament building and government offices, and eventually brought down Oli’s administration. Khadka’s residence was set ablaze, and videos went viral showing protesters throwing cash found in his home up into the air. Nepal held elections this month that the Rastriya Swatantra Party won by a landslide. Its leader, Balendra Shah, formally took office as prime minister on Friday. The government unveiled an ambitious 100 point agenda for governance reform on Saturday, including a plan to form an investigation committee to look into the assets of politicians and high-ranking state employees. The same day, Oli and Lekhak were arrested. A government-backed inquiry commission had previously recommended that Oli and other officials be prosecuted for neglect after not acting to stop security forces from firing on protesters. – Reuters Former home minister Lekhak walks out from Kathmandu District Office of the Attorney yesterday. – REUTERSPIC ISTANBUL: Australian states of Victoria and Tasmania announced yesterday free public transport services in response to rising fuel prices. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said the state government would make all public transport services free for a month from tomorrow, local broadcaster SBS News reported. She said that the measure would make it more affordable for people to choose public transport amid a spike in fuel prices. Tasmanians will benefit from even a longer period of free public transport, with free travel on buses and ferries until June 30. Neither the Victorian nor Tasmanian governments has indicated that the measures will become permanent. In contrast, New South Wales, Western Australia, Queensland and South Australia have ruled out following the suit as their governments said they are focusing on other forms of cost-of living relief. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his government will underwrite the purchase of essential products. – Bernama Victoria, Tasmania offer free rides

SINGAPORE: Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said Singapore and Asean will continue to pursue an open and inclusive approach in engaging major global powers, refusing to take sides amid growing geopolitical tensions between the East and the West. He said Asean adopts an omnidirectional approach, emphasising constructive dialogue and cooperation with all major powers. Wong noted that this is reflected in Asean led platforms such as Asean Plus Three, which brings together China, Japan and South Korea, as well as broader engagement with dialogue partners including Australia

ALL IN THE FAMILY ... Korean families run with strollers during the Seoul Stroller Run, a family-focused 8km event hosted by the Seoul Metropolitan Government, in central Seoul on Saturday. – AFPPIC

Manila, Beijing resume talks MANILA: The Philippines and China resumed high-level talks over the disputed South China Sea, exploring preliminary steps toward oil and gas cooperation while addressing energy and fertiliser supply issues, the Philippine Foreign Ministry said.

countries’ foreign ministers are planned for later this year. Beijing’s claims over the South China Sea overlap with the exclusive economic zones of Southeast Asian nations, including the Philippines. Maritime confrontations have heightened tensions, with Manila accusing Beijing of “dangerous manoeuvres”and deploying water cannon to interfere with its resupply missions in contested areas. A 2016 international arbitral ruling invalidated China’s claims but Beijing has refused to acknowledge the decision. The meeting also marked the first broader discussion on bilateral relations since March 2023, aimed at fostering maritime cooperation and confidence-building, the Philippine ministry said. – Reuters

stable energy and fertiliser access. The talks come after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr declared a state of national energy emergency earlier last week, citing oil supply disruptions and announcing efforts to diversify fuel imports, including sourcing from China. The talks also addressed renewable energy, agriculture, trade, and potential people-to people initiatives, such as visa-free travel and direct air routes, the ministry said. The Philippines said both sides “continued to make progress” to shore up confidence at sea, including communication between their coast guards. In a separate statement, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong called for “concrete actions” from the Philippines to improve ties. Further consultations between the

The 11th round of talks last week under a bilateral consultation mechanism established in 2017 was the first such meeting since January 2025. Manila “firmly reiterated its principled positions”, raising concerns about incidents threatening Filipino personnel and fishermen, and underscoring the importance of diplomacy, communication and adherence to international law, the ministry said in a statement. Both sides discussed initial exchanges on oil and gas cooperation and emphasised

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Pope calls for peace

French police foil Paris bomb attack PARIS: French police stopped an apparent bomb attack outside a US bank in Paris on Saturday when they arrested a person about to set off a homemade explosive device, said officials and sources close to the case. The incident occurred in front of a Bank of America building in the chic 8th arrondissement, a couple of streets from the Champs-Elysees. Police grabbed the suspect just after he placed a device, made of five litres of liquid, believed to be fuel, and an ignition system, one of the sources said. After his arrest, the suspect claimed to be a Senegalese citizen, said a police source, who cautioned that the authorities were still verifying his identity. He was accompanied by a second person, who took flight when officers arrived to arrest the pair. The ignition component had 650gm of explosive powder in it, according to an initial assessment. The whole device was taken to the Paris police forensics lab for a full analysis. Prosecutors at France’s counter terrorism office said they had immediately taken over the investigation and confirmed the suspect caught was in police custody. It said the probe it had launched was into “attempted damage by fire or other dangerous means in connection with a terrorist undertaking” and a “terrorist criminal conspiracy”. Both the Paris judicial police and France’s domestic intelligence service, the General Directorate for Internal Security, were involved in the investigation, the office said. According to a police source, the suspect said he had been recruited via the Snapchat app to carry out the bombing in exchange for the sum of €600 (RM2,771). When the patrolling officers arrested him, he was about to ignite the device with a lighter. Another police source said that while he was placing the charge, the accomplice stepped back, apparently to take a photo or video of the crime with his mobile phone.

o End airstrikes, urges pontiff

a higher thrust of 2,500 kilonewtons. The development demonstrates North Korea’s “resolve to acquire missiles capable of hitting targets around the globe”, said Hong Min, an analyst at the Korea Institute for National Unification. “Given the increased maximum thrust, this indicates its intention to possess ICBMs with global strike range, as well as the ability to overwhelm missile defence systems,” he said. – AFP VATICAN CITY: Pope Leo said yesterday that God rejects the prayers of leaders who start wars and have “hands full of blood”, in unusually forceful remarks as the US-Israeli attacks on Iran war entered its second month. Addressing tens of thousands of people in St Peter’s Square on Palm Sunday, the celebration that opens the holiest week of the year in the lead up to Easter for the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics, the pontiff said that Jesus cannot be used to justify any wars. “Jesus rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war,” Leo, the first US pope, told crowds in brilliant sunshine. “(Jesus) does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war, but rejects them, saying: ‘Even though you make many prayers, I will not listen: your hands are full of blood’,” he said, citing a Bible passage. Leo did not specifically name any world leaders, but he has been ramping up criticism of the West Asia war in recent weeks. The pope, who is known for choosing his words carefully, has repeatedly called for an immediate ceasefire in the conflict and said on Monday that military airstrikes are indiscriminate and should be banned. Some US officials have invoked Christian language to justify the joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran on Feb 28 that initiated the expanding war. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, who has started leading Christian prayer services at the Pentagon, prayed at a service on Wednesday for “overwhelming violence of action against those who deserve no mercy”. Leo yesterday referenced a Bible passage in which Jesus, about to be arrested ahead of his crucifixion, rebuked one of his followers for striking the person arresting him with a sword. “(Jesus) did not arm himself, or defend himself, or fight any war,” Leo said. “He revealed the gentle face of God, who always rejects violence.” – Reuters

Pope Leo delivers a homily in St Peter’s Square. – REUTERSPIC

Kim oversees ground test of high-thrust engine SEOUL: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the ground test of an upgraded rocket engine, state media reported yesterday, marking another key step in its weapons programme. The latest test was “part of the national defence development plan in the new five-year plan”, Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported, without elaborating on the date or location of the test.

A spokesperson for Bank of America, whose US headquarters is in Charlotte, North Carolina, told AFP they were aware of the situation and were in communication with the French authorities. – AFP Stranded humpback whale freed from sandbank near Germany Defence experts believe North Korea is planning to use its solid-fuel rocket engines for launching intercontinental ballistic missiles. The engines enable faster missile launches as they require little preparation before ignition. It was the first officially confirmed high thrust solid-fuel engine test since September last year, when state media said an engine generated a maximum thrust of 1,971 kilonewtons. KCNA reported the recent test had achieved

BERLIN: A humpback whale stranded on a sandbank off Germany’s Baltic coast has freed itself and was heading back out to sea yesterday but was still at risk, authorities said. The 13.5m long mammal spent six days struggling on sandbanks in Lubeck bay and vets had feared for its health as the ordeal went on. It freed itself from a first sandbank on Friday, after a mechanical digger set up an escape route but became trapped again on another. Rising waters in the bay helped the whale a second time and it started swimming away late on Saturday, a regional

government spokesman told German media. A German maritime police vessel is tracking the whale as it could become trapped again in the bay’s shallow waters, the spokesman said. Police have kept tourist boats away from the animal to avoid adding to its stress. Experts hope the whale will return to its natural habitat in the Atlantic through the North Sea. Humpbacks are rarely seen in the Baltic and the experts said it may have been following a shoal of fish or been distracted by the noise of a submarine. – AFP

The humpback whale searching for a way out of the Baltic Sea. – AFPPIC/ FLORIAN MANZ/ GREENPEACE GERMANY