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MONDAY | APR 6, 2026

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Murder charge intricacy Burden of proof rests with prosecutors dealing with task of establishing intent to kill and mental element beyond reasonable doubt in drink-driving cases: Lawyers

Lawyer and former Kebun Bunga assemblyman Datuk Jason Ong Khan Lee said while the act of dangerous driving resulting in death may be clear, proving the mental element required for a murder charge is far more demanding. – AI GENERATED IMAGE BY SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN/THESUN

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Crowds swarm Matta Fair despite economic uncertainty, global tensions Report

Experts highlight risks of using ‘tumpang lori’ services to move belongings Report

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Visitors flock to travel agency booths, seeking deals on discounted flights and tour packages.

Providers operate outside regulatory oversight, involving use of cargo and private vehicles.

MONDAY | APR 6, 2026

M’sian cities ill-prepared for heat surge: Expert

Credit govt for firm stand on Iran, says PM JOHOR BAHRU: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged that credit be given to the government for strengthening diplomatic ties and taking a firm stand on issues involving Iran and the Gaza conflict. He said Malaysia’s stance, including protests against Israeli and US attacks on Iran, had helped secure the safe passage of Malaysian ships through the Strait of Hormuz. “Do you think it was easy to persuade the Iranian president to let our ship pass through the Strait of Hormuz? I’m not saying the previous government was unfriendly with Iran, but it’s not like what we have now. We can call repeatedly, we can propose in Parliament to oppose the Israeli and US attacks on Iran,” he said at the Johor Keadilan Convention yesterday. “See how many countries in the world have made statements as strong as Malaysia did on the Iran war. So, give the government some credit. The Opposition thought it was easy.” Also present were Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, PKR vice president Datuk Seri R. Ramanan and Johor Keadilan State Leadership Council chairman Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa. Anwar expressed disappointment that the Opposition has often overlooked his efforts, particularly his meeting with US President Donald Trump in the president’s official vehicle, “The Beast”. “It’s true that I negotiated but I did not sacrifice the country’s interests.” He said he had conveyed to Trump the plight of the Palestinian people. “I said all this to President Donald Trump because I come from the spirit of justice reform. Many leaders talk but do they dare to face it?” Anwar said he had delivered a similar message to former US President Joe Biden, criticising Western hypocrisy and the ongoing oppression and occupation in Gaza. He said these actions reflected Malaysia’s reformist principles, establishing the country as a firm voice on global geopolitical issues. Anwar also credited Johor’s strong economic performance to federal support and policies. “For example, the Forest City project was revived, the long-delayed Maharani port received assistance and the Johor Singapore Special Economic Zone was fully supported by the federal government.” – Bernama Attacks on Unifil personnel slammed KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has condemned in no uncertain terms the continued attacks on United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil) peacekeepers in southern Lebanon which have resulted in deaths and injuries among UN personnel. In a statement issued yesterday, the Foreign Ministry said the latest incident on April 3 in El Addaiseh injured three Indonesian peacekeepers. “These attacks are in serious violation of international law, and those responsible must be held accountable.” The statement also called on all parties to ensure the safety of UN personnel and emphasise the inviolability of UN missions. – Bernama

o ‘Urban areas facing year-round high temperatures, humidity and deteriorating air quality that planning frameworks have failed to address’

Fong emphasised the need for greater public awareness and behavioural change, warning that many Malaysians underestimate the risks due to perceived “adaptation” to heat. “Many people in tropical cities develop a form of adaptive thermal comfort, whereby they become accustomed to high temperatures and may underestimate the health risks of prolonged heat exposure or poor air quality.” He urged communities, schools and households to adopt daily protective measures such as adjusting activity schedules, staying hydrated, improving ventilation, increasing shade and reducing pollution sources, including open burning and excessive vehicle use. Fong warned that risks escalate significantly when prolonged heat coincides with haze caused by forest fires or open burning. “In tropical cities, prolonged heat combined with haze creates a compound exposure risk. “High humidity reduces the body’s ability to cool itself, making heat stress more dangerous, while particulate pollution affects the lungs and cardiovascular system.” He said urban ecosystem management offers a pathway to address both threats simultaneously. “In tropical environments, this integrated approach is essential because heat and pollution are not separate challenges but reinforce each other. “Even well-designed environments will not fully protect communities if people underestimate the risks or do not adapt their daily practices accordingly.” Malaysia has been gripped by a heatwave over the past month. The Meteorological Department has warned that the hot and dry conditions are expected to persist until the onset of the Southwest Monsoon in June.

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

largely reactive. He added that tropical cities require continuous thermal and air quality management rather than short-term emergency measures. He called for long-term urban design interventions, including expanding tree canopy coverage and green-blue infrastructure to provide shade, cooling and pollutant filtration as well as preserving ventilation corridors to enable heat and pollutants to disperse. “At the same time, reducing emissions from transport, energy use and urban activities is essential to improve baseline air quality. “These strategies must be embedded into planning regulations and infrastructure design so that cities are cooler and cleaner every day, not just during extreme events.” Fong also highlighted a critical policy gap – the absence of enforceable, tropical-specific standards that integrate heat resilience and air quality into development planning. “While Malaysia has policies on climate change and environmental protection, heat resilience and air quality are not consistently embedded into local planning approvals, building codes or neighbourhood design standards.” He said requirements for shading, greenery and ventilation are often not mandatory, while the use of high-resolution data to identify localised heat and pollution hotspots remains limited.

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s worsening urban heat is not just a weather problem but also a planning failure, with cities ill-equipped to cope with constant thermal stress in a tropical climate, said Universiti Malaya Institute for Advanced Studies senior lecturer Dr Fong Chng Saun. He said urban areas are facing a dangerous convergence of year-round heat, high humidity and deteriorating air quality – a combination that current planning frameworks have yet to adequately address. “Malaysia’s challenge is not just urban heat. It is urban heat in a tropical climate where high temperatures, strong solar radiation and persistent humidity already create year-round thermal stress. “However, our planning systems are treating heat as seasonal rather than constant, and this is why heat management is often treated as episodic instead of structural.” Fong said the burden falls disproportionately on vulnerable groups, including low-income communities, outdoor workers, the elderly and children, particularly those in dense, poorly ventilated neighbourhoods with limited greenery and higher exposure to both heat and pollution. He said existing responses such as cooling centres and public alerts remain

Fong emphasised the need for greater public awareness and behavioural change, adding that many Malaysians underestimate the risks due to perceived ‘adaptation’ to heat. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Move to delay GE16 lauded MANJUNG: Umno has welcomed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s indication that the 16th General Election (GE16) will not be held in the near future to focus on addressing the rising cost of living.

soon to make way for GE16 as the government aims to focus on economic recovery and public well-being. Asyraf Wajdi said rising global oil prices, driven by geopolitical factors and international conflicts, present a major challenge beyond the country’s control and directly impact the people. “The approach suggested by the prime minister reflects a high sense of responsibility and concern for the reality currently faced by the people.” – Bernama

people can cope with the increasingly acute cost of living.” He was speaking after officiating at the 2026 concurrent Umno branch meetings and the Lumut Umno division Aidilfitri Open House at Dewan Merdeka yesterday. Also present was Umno Supreme Council member Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, who is also the Lumut Umno division chief. On Saturday, Anwar had indicated that the Dewan Rakyat would not be dissolved anytime

Umno secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said given current global uncertainties, all parties should set aside power struggles and focus on the welfare of the people. “What is most important is for the nation’s leaders to remain focused on ensuring that

MONDAY | APR 6, 2026

Murder charge in drink-driving cases not straightforward

Ű BY T.C KHOR newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: With drink-driving continuing to claim lives, the e-hailing community is urging intoxicated individuals to stay off the road and book a ride instead – cautioning that a single reckless decision can have fatal consequences. The community says the choice is not merely about convenience, but a critical step in preventing avoidable tragedies. Malaysian e-hailing association Gabungan E-Hailing Malaysia chief activist Masrizal Mahidin said those who had consumed alcohol should avoid driving altogether, stressing Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research chairman Dr Wong Shaw Voon said enforcement must go beyond fines to genuinely change driver behaviour. He emphasised that officers should focus on behaviour modification rather than chasing summonses, stressing that enforcement affects not only drivers but also road users, including passengers and pedestrians. “Enforcement has to be creative and the main objective is to change the behaviour of the people using the road. “Issuing summons may not be the right target that enforcement officers should chase after. Enforcement doesn’t mean summons,” Wong told theSun. “Of course, issuing a summons is one way of enforcing but when enforcement becomes effective and people change behaviour, naturally there will be fewer chances to issue summonses.” Wong added that while Malaysia’s drink-driving punishments are already severe – including fines, imprisonment and licence suspension – severity alone does not guarantee compliance. PETALING JAYA: Fatal drink or drug driving incidents often spark outrage, but legal experts caution that securing murder convictions in such cases is far from straightforward if intent to kill cannot be clearly proven. Former deputy public prosecutor Datuk C. Vignesh Kumar said while murder generally requires proof beyond reasonable doubt, not all charges demand deliberate intent. He cited Section 300(d) of the Penal Code, which classifies an act as murder when it is “so imminently dangerous that it would in all probability cause death,” even if there is no specific intention to kill. “For instance, a person who fires a cannonball into a crowd is presumed to know the lethal consequences of such an act,” Vignesh explained. “But applying this standard to motorists is far more complex. Prosecutors must demonstrate that the driver knew their conduct was likely to cause death, not merely serious injury.” He also clarified that Malaysian Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

“Even if the punishment is very severe, if the other factors are not there, it is not going to change behaviour.” The road safety expert also stressed the role of prevention and public responsibility. “Every day we have people being killed on the road. In many cases, the person who dies may have been obeying the rules and driving carefully but the other party was not, just like the DUI (driving under influence) cases. “Not just the police, but all of us as road users can make a difference by sharing awareness and complying with road safety rules.” The Road Transport Department (RTD) recently signalled support for a behaviour-focused approach. Its director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli said the department would no longer set key performance indicators for the number of summonses issued. Enforcement operations will now prioritise patrols, monitoring and preventive action, with officers assessed on the effectiveness of their operations and real-world safety outcomes rather than the volume of fines issued. “Our focus is not on issuing summonses but on ensuring compliance and reducing the risk of road accidents,” he said during the o Experts say prosecutors must prove intent to kill and establish mental element law does not recognise degrees of murder. “Every murder is culpable homicide, but not all culpable homicide rises to murder. The latter only applies when a higher threshold of intent or knowledge of imminent danger is proven,” he said. that the dangers of drink-driving extended far beyond the individual behind the wheel. “For Malaysians who are involved in consuming alcohol or intoxicating drinks, we do not encourage it. But if they have already done so, then our advice is to use public transportation, whether that is e-hailing or taxis. “Why? Because it is for their own safety and for the safety of other road users as well. For us, this is a shared responsibility. We all have to protect ourselves from accidents,” he told theSun. However, Masrizal, also known as Jose Rizal within the community, said the issue was not as straightforward as simply telling intoxicated individuals to book a ride, as many e

legislation

and

structured

he added. On civil remedies, Ong said compensation for victims’ families – including through the Islamic diyat (financial compensation for loss of life) mechanism – is appropriate and should be pursued separately from criminal proceedings. Calls for tougher treatment of fatal drink-driving cases have gained traction recently. Road safety expert Prof Rozmi Ismail argued that choosing to drive while intoxicated could itself suggest a degree of intent, warranting consideration under murder provisions. He also advocated for stronger deterrence through tougher

Lawyer and former Kebun Bunga assemblyman Datuk Jason Ong Khan Lee echoed these concerns, stressing that a murder charge hinges on proving both the mens rea (guilty mind) and actus reus (guilty act). “While the physical act of dangerous driving causing death may be clear, establishing the mental element required for murder is far more demanding,” Ong said. He also noted that drug-impaired driving may attract closer scrutiny than alcohol when assessing culpability. “Prosecutors retain flexibility to revise charges as proceedings unfold and new evidence emerges, but the legal burden of proof remains high,”

compensation frameworks. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan recently proposed exploring a Syariah-based diyat model after a suspected drink-driving incident. He emphasised that the rights of the victims’ next of kin must be safeguarded and that the diyat framework could serve as a fair mechanism for delivering justice to bereaved families. Under Malaysian law, a murder conviction carries the death penalty or a custodial sentence of 30 to 40 years, along with a minimum of 12 strokes of the cane.

‘Enforcement should target driver behaviour’ PETALING JAYA: Tough penalties alone will not stop drink-driving, a road safety expert said.

Wong said enforcement must go beyond fines to genuinely change driver behaviour as enforcement affects not only drivers but also road users, including passengers and pedestrians.

1987, which provides fines of RM10,000, up to two years’ imprisonment and a two-year licence suspension for drink-driving offences, and advised to use e-hailing services or appoint an alternative driver. – By Faiz Ruzman

year, the police’s Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department carried out 255 operations, resulting in 238 prosecutions and 100% legal action taken. The public was reminded of Section 45A of the Road Transport Act

RTD monthly gathering last Friday. The shift aligns with the Transport Ministry’s policy direction to strengthen enforcement strategies that have a meaningful impact on road safety. Between January and March this

E-hailing ‘safer choice’ after consuming alcohol

hailing drivers themselves were reluctant to pick up drunk passengers due to the potential disruption to their work. He said drivers on the ground had raised concerns over passengers vomiting in vehicles, with some left to bear cleaning costs and the loss of income while their cars remained unusable. “From what our drivers tell us, the majority of them do not like picking up drunk passengers. “From the compensation side and from the work side, it can disrupt their ability to continue working. If someone vomits in the car, it becomes a serious problem. “The smell might not go away even after a week. They end up

consumed and should act when someone was clearly unfit to drive. “They need to have clear signage stating such reminders, not just do the bare minimum. They also need to keep reminding their patrons. Premises that serve alcoholic drinks must have a social responsibility to provide those reminders. “That would be the best approach. Because the premises would know better how much their customers have consumed. They are in a better position to know and be aware.” He said the issue should not be treated as a driver-only problem, but as a broader public safety concern requiring shared responsibility among passengers, platforms and alcohol-serving premises.

having to bear the cost and not all e hailing platforms provide compensation that is fair,” Masrizal said. Despite these concerns, he stressed that choosing not to drive after drinking remained the more responsible course of action, particularly during festive periods, public holidays and peak tourism seasons, when such cases tend to rise. Masrizal added that the responsibility should also extend to premises serving alcohol, which he said must do more to remind patrons not to get behind the wheel while intoxicated. He said nightspots and similar establishments were better placed to gauge how much a customer had

MONDAY | APR 6, 2026

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Homegrown holidays take centre stage at Matta Fair

Profiteering, not fuel, behind fish price hikes

Ű BY T.C. KHOR newsdesk@thesundaily.com

GEORGE TOWN: Rising fish prices should not be pinned on diesel costs which remain subsidised but on profiteering along the supply chain, with traders warned against exploiting the situation. Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia chairman Muhammad Faiz Fadzil said subsidies remain intact at RM1.65 per litre, ensuring continued support for fishermen. “Don’t take advantage,”he told reporters after Amanah’s Hari Raya open house in Teluk Kumbar here on Saturday. He said reports of price increases were concerning but stressed that hikes typically occur during supply shortages – a situation he insisted does not apply now. “There is enough fish, there is plenty – prices usually go up when there is no fish. But there is fish.” Faiz, who is also Amanah secretary-general and Penang chairman, said the issue lies at the market level, pointing to transportation costs and wholesalers rather than fishermen as the source of the problem. He added that Malaysia’s fish self-sufficiency rate stands at about 90%, with only around 10% imported while annual landings total roughly 1.2 million metric tonnes. He added that Putrajaya is reviewing subsidy distribution to better support all fishing zones, including C2 deep-sea operators who currently do not receive subsidies. “We are looking at how to redistribute the quota to better support all zones,” he said. theSun recently reported Faiz as saying fishermen are allocated up to 50 litres of subsidised petrol daily, with additional fuel costs borne by operators, including through Budi95 at RM1.56 per litre. About 70 million litres of subsidised fuel are allocated monthly to fishermen nationwide, covering only part of operating costs. Faiz added that the government also provides cost-of-living allowances and catch incentives to sustain fishermen and ensure a stable national supply. Fire Dept curbs non-essential travel BATU KAWAN: The Fire and Rescue Department has introduced cost-saving measures, including limiting the movement of non-critical vehicles, in response to rising fuel costs and supply constraints. Department director-general Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad said the steps aim to optimise diesel and petrol usage without affecting emergency readiness. “For fire operation vehicles, there is no compromise. Utility vehicles and non-critical activities, however, will have restricted movement. We are also conducting meetings online to reduce travel,” he told reporters on Saturday. State directors have been instructed to reorganise departmental programmes, including public education initiatives, to minimise vehicle use. Nor Hisham added the department is engaging the Volunteer Fire Brigade on fuel cost impacts, with the possibility of submitting subsidy requests to the government. The volunteer brigade has not yet received fuel subsidies, but the matter can be reviewed as they also rely on diesel and petrol.” Meanwhile, the department has recorded a 40% surge in fire incidents over the past two weeks compared with the same period last year. The fires, mainly in secondary forests and oil palm plantations, have affected expanded areas, with several in Pahang and Johor exceeding 100ha. Nor Hisham cited hot, dry conditions and ongoing open burning as contributing factors. – Bernama

o Crowds flock to local destinations as visitors prioritise value and safety while overseas trips take backseat amid global uncertainties

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL AND KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Lengthy and costly approval processes for private hospitals are under renewed scrutiny, with industry players warning that persistent regulatory delays risk driving up healthcare costs and ultimately burdening patients. The Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia (APHM) has welcomed the Health Minister’s acknowledgement of delays in registering new facilities, describing the issue as long-standing and in urgent need of reform. APHM president Datuk Dr Kuljit Singh said the association has consistently raised concerns over inefficiencies in the current system, particularly involving the Certificate of Need and procedures under the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act (Act 586). “We are encouraged to see that attention is now being given to exploring and identifying innovative solutions to address these delays,” he said in a statement. According to APHM, each stage of registration and licence renewal involves KUALA LUMPUR: Despite economic uncertainty and global tensions, Malaysians flocked in droves to the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) Fair 2026, hunting for holiday bargains, exclusive packages and a chance to plan escapes at home and abroad. The Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec) buzzed with activity on Saturday. Domestic travel booths were jam-packed with visitors scouring discounted flights, tour packages and holiday experiences. By contrast, the international travel sections drew a quieter but steady stream of curious travellers – a sign of cautious optimism amid conflicts in the Middle East and fluctuating currency rates. For 28-year-old business development executive Kashful Asrar, the fair was the perfect opportunity to plan a domestic honeymoon. “I checked prices on websites and apps beforehand, so I had an idea of the deals. The Matta fair offers were really exciting.” However, he is keeping international travel on hold. “Considering the current international situation, we decided not to book anything overseas. You really have to be careful with spending now, or it’ll hit your wallet. Inflation, fuel prices, currency changes – it does make me a bit anxious,” he admitted. Yet, for Kashful, travel remains a reward for Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Matta 2026 was a buzz of activity on Saturday with domestic travel booths jam-packed as visitors hunted for discounted flights and tour packages. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

586 to address inefficiencies contributing to rising healthcare costs. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the move follows discussions at the joint ministerial committee meeting on private healthcare costs, involving Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, Bank Negara Malaysia and private hospital chief executives. In a statement on X, Dzulkefly said the ministry has invited private hospitals to participate in the Medical and Health Insurance/Takaful base plan as Tier 1 providers, with a pilot programme to be rolled out in stages across the Greater Klang Valley from July 2026. He added that Diagnosis-Related Groups will be implemented for Tier 1 hospitals beginning January 2027, aimed at improving pricing transparency and predictability, while shifting from a fee-for-service model to one focused on patient outcomes. Additionally, hospitals are encouraged to join the Malaysia Digital Health Certification Network and share radiology data to reduce duplication of tests and help lower costs. Saudi government,” she said. The appeal of the fair extends beyond international travel. Public relations executive Visha Ram, 29, accompanied her mother in search of domestic holiday deals, eyeing destinations such as Semporna, Pulau Tioman and Pulau Redang. “Domestic travel is still manageable, but it requires more careful planning. “Fuel prices are rising, and travelling by car is not as affordable as before. “Booking now might mean the trip costs less than later. If we have the chance, we should take it,” Visha added, noting that Malaysians are adjusting their travel choices in response to uncertainty, rather than retreating altogether. “The economy is on everyone’s mind, but people still want to see the world, especially after the pandemic lull. They’re more selective, but they’re not giving up on travelling.” Held from April 3 until yesterday at Mitec, Matta 2026 remains Malaysia’s premier travel convention, offering travellers a chance to hunt for deals, explore destinations and plan adventures – a reminder that even in uncertain times, the desire to travel endures.

protracted processes with significant financial implications, costs that may ultimately be passed on to patients. To address this, the association has thrown its support behind greater adoption of technology and digital systems to streamline applications and renewals, with the aim of reducing delays and improving efficiency. It has also proposed introducing a self regulatory mechanism for licence renewals, which it said could enhance efficiency without compromising healthcare standards. Kuljit stressed that private hospitals are meant to complement, not replace, the public healthcare system. “Efforts to contain costs must be balanced with the need to ensure the sustainability of private hospitals, so they can continue to remain efficient, innovative and aligned with global technological standards,” he said. He added that private hospitals in Malaysia have the capacity to deliver timely, high quality and value-based care, comparable to leading healthcare systems. Meanwhile, the Health Ministry is reviewing licensing and regulatory processes under Act himself and his family. Not everyone is deterred by financial concerns. IT executive Hasan Mujtaba, 26, attended the fair mainly to browse and compare deals. “I’m aware of the global and local economic challenges but the Malaysian ringgit is relatively strong against certain currencies, so I see this as a good opportunity to travel,” he said, adding that even if the economy worsens, “I’ve already set aside savings for it”. For Hasan, travel is a personal reward – a chance to explore new cultures despite the uncertainty. For others, travel carries a deeper significance. Human resources manager Tina Abdullah, 55, attended Matta to secure an umrah package for herself and her children. “Prices are higher because of global issues, but I’m budgeting carefully. “The value and importance of this trip outweigh the cost concerns,” she said. Tina added that only worsening conditions in the Middle East could deter her plans. “I’ve had assurances from travel agencies that it is still safe and Saudi Arabia is welcoming pilgrims. I trust both them and the

Regulatory delays could drive up healthcare costs

MONDAY | APR 6, 2026

‘ Tumpang lori service riddled with risks’

Security guard killed in assault PETALING JAYA: A security guard died after an assault at a residential estate in Bandar Bukit Raja, Klang, with a suspect taken into custody within hours of the incident. North Klang police chief ACP S. Vijaya Rao said the attack was reported at about 1am at a guardhouse within the housing area. The victim, who sustained injuries from the assault, was rushed to the Shah Alam Hospital but succumbed to his wounds and was pronounced dead at 4.18am yesterday. Preliminary investigations suggest the confrontation arose from a misunderstanding between the suspect and the victim at the scene. The suspect is believed to have struck the victim with a blunt object. Following the attack, police tracked down the individual and recovered a car lock suspected to have been used as the weapon. The suspect, believed to be in his 40s, was found to have police records showing he has been involved in eight criminal offences and two drug-related charges. The case is being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder. “In road safety, regulation is not bureaucracy, it is protection. When responsibility in transport is unclear, the risk becomes a burden for everyone.” use and increased risk. “Using a private vehicle to carry goods results in incorrect road tax payment, and the vehicle may be confiscated if detected.” Meanwhile, Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros) chairman Prof Dr Wong Shaw Voon said rising transport costs are driving the shift toward informal services despite the dangers. He said while sharing cargo space may appear practical, the arrangements bypass regulations and expose users to serious safety and liability risks. “Drivers of private pickup trucks or lorries are often not registered for commercial work. “They may not hold a Goods Driving Licence, and are unlikely to have undergone the necessary training or medical certification to transport goods safely. “If anything goes wrong, the owner of the goods may have no protection, as private vehicle insurance does not cover cargo or paid transport.” Wong emphasised that cheaper options are not worth the potential consequences, urging the public to use authorised transport providers with verified credentials and proper insurance coverage. He added that regulated services offer safeguards and ensure accountability when issues arise. “The real cost of informal transport is not the price paid upfront, but the risks assumed without safeguards.

unidentified man approached her from behind and inappropriately touched her before fleeing. The incident reportedly occurred in a crowded, publicly visible area. Police are investigating the case under Section 509 of the Penal Code, which pertains to acts intended to insult a person’s modesty. – By theSun Team represented by lawyer Ku Nur Farahi Eliana Ku Abd Razak. The judge allowed the accused bail of RM80,000 for all charges in one surety, and ordered her not to contact the victim and prosecution witnesses, as well as to surrender her passport to the court. The court set May 5 for next mention of the case. – Bernama the convenience comes with serious downsides, including theft, damage, financial losses and unsafe transport practices, all compounded by the absence of accountability. “Road safety is a major concern for tumpang services as they lack formal contracts and consignment notes, making it difficult to facilitate compensation in cases of damaged or lost goods. “Overloading without proper cargo security may also lead to crashes. “Informal operators may offer cheaper services but they pose heightened risks to customers due to the absence of legal protection, insurance coverage, proper documentation and dispute resolution mechanisms. “The lack of accountability could result in complications such as damage or loss of goods in transit, delivery delays, denied insurance claims and unresolved disputes if operators refuse responsibility.” Law urged the public not to compromise on safety for the sake of lower costs, adding that many tumpang lori drivers are not recognised commercial operators. He also said consumers should verify whether service providers are registered with the Companies Commission of Malaysia and hold a valid permit. “Not all tumpang lori drivers are commercial vehicle operators as some may be private owners transporting goods for hire. “People should check if the service provider is registered and possesses a valid Goods Vehicle Permit. “Commercial vehicles are subject to a higher road tax due to business

through unofficial networks. Experts say while the arrangement may seem practical and cost-effective, it operates largely outside regulatory oversight, raising concerns over safety, compliance and accountability if things go wrong. Universiti Putra Malaysia Road Safety Research Centre head Assoc Prof Dr Law Teik Hua said consumers may be overlooking significant risks in their attempt to cut costs. He acknowledged that informal services are cheaper, but added that

o Arrangement raises concerns over safety, compliance and accountability: Experts

Ű BY SIVAA TANGAI RAJU newsdesk@thesundaily.com

consequences

even

road

tragedies. With

professional movers increasingly out of reach for many households and small businesses, some are opting to tumpang – paying for spare cargo space on lorries that are already travelling interstate, or engaging private vehicle owners

MALACCA: A growing number of Malaysians are turning to informal tumpang lori services to move their belongings as living costs surge, a risky trend that experts say could lead to financial loss, legal

Law urged the public not to compromise on safety for the sake of lower costs, adding that many tumpang lori drivers are not recognised commercial operators. – AI GENERATED IMAGE BY SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN/THESUN

Kajang MRT sexual harassment suspect nabbed PETALING JAYA: A man suspected of sexually harassing a woman at the Kajang MRT station has been taken into custody, police confirmed, days after a video documenting the alleged incident circulated on social media. Kajang police chief ACP Naazron Abdul Yusof said the 24-year-old suspect was detained on April 4 at his residence in Taman West Country, Bandar Baru Bangi. According to an English daily, he is expected to be taken before the Kajang Magistrate’s Court for a remand application to allow investigators to proceed with the case. The incident came to light after a 23-second video was posted on the Threads social media platform on April 2 at about 6.15pm. The footage, recorded earlier that morning at about 9am at Gate A of the Kajang MRT station in Selangor, prompted swift public response and drew significant attention online. According to the account shared in the post, the victim – a woman who had been waiting alone at the station to be picked up by her parents after an outing with friends – alleged that an Housewife pleads not guilty in jewellery fraud case ALOR SETAR: A housewife pleaded not guilty in the Sessions Court yesterday to eight counts of cheating involving orders for non-existent jewellery worth RM173,500 two years ago. She is accused of defrauding a 55-year-old woman by deceiving the victim into depositing money into her bank account for non-existent jewellery in Kampung Mani Mukim Belimbing Kanan, Padang Terap, from June 2 to Aug 16, 2024. transactions, funds she would not have handed over if she had not been deceived. The charges were framed under Section 420 of the Penal Code, which provides for imprisonment of up to 10 years, whipping and a fine. DPP Muhammad Fahmi

Siti Hajartul Haini Abd Hamid, 39, entered the plea after all eight charges were read before Judge Sharmila Abdul Samad.

The victim was tricked into depositing RM173,500 into the bank account of the accused via several

Kamaluddin appeared for the prosecution, while the accused was

Duo drown while kayaking in Kedah SUNGAI PETANI: Two individuals, a man and a woman in their 20s, were found drowned after they were believed to have fallen into the sea while kayaking at Pantai Merdeka yesterday. both deceased were discovered at about 7.30pm. He said the deceased are believed to be participants in an event organised by a higher learning institution at the location.

some had capsized, but the other participants were rescued. He also said the bodies have been sent to the Sultan Abdul Halim Hospital for post-mortem, adding that investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the incident. – Bernama

were kayaking in a group, moving from one location to another. “The victims are believed to have encountered strong waves, and their kayak is thought to have become entangled in a fisherman’s net.“ Hanyan said several other kayaks were involved in the incident, and

“The incident is believed to have occurred at about 5pm while they

Kuala Muda police chief ACP Hanyan Ramlan said the bodies of

MONDAY | APR 6, 2026

Pre-teen author makes literary mark

o Achievements comprise full-length novels and illustrated books for young readers

passion for learning extends beyond literature. “As a mystery writer, I carefully plan plot twists to keep readers engaged and guessing until the very end,” she added. Herng’s books have reached a diverse audience, from readers as young as eight to adults in their sixties. Her first book sold an estimated 3,000 copies, with positive feedback, particularly on platforms such as Shopee. At book events, Herng often meets eager young fans asking when her next novel will be released, a question she answers with a smile, reminding readers that writing takes time. She said she plans to continue writing mystery-thrillers while exploring other genres, including fantasy, horror and literature. Tan has played a central role in nurturing her daughters’ talents. “I’ve always wanted Avril to be a wonder, not in the world, but within our family. “I wanted her to at least be better than me,” she said. Tan’s own childhood love for reading inspired her approach to homeschooling, encouraging Herng to explore books, online resources and creative projects from an early age. She said by age four, Herng was already asking: “Mummy, how can I become an author?”

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

international audiences in the UK and Australia, supported by local book retailer and e-commerce bookstore BookXcess. Herng’s love for storytelling began around the age of six. “I loved reading as a child and my mother would make small handmade books by stapling papers together. I filled these with my stories and drawings,” she said. Encouraged by her mother, Nicole Tan, 48, a private tutor, Herng began to see writing as a possible future path, although it initially surprised her. By the time she was eight, Herng transitioned to typing on the computer, finding it easier to draft and revise her stories. After experimenting with several projects, she focused on Laura Taylor , which she shared with her mother. Recognising its potential, Tan encouraged her to pursue professional publication. Herng began the book at nine and released it at 11, following extensive editing, illustrating and formatting. Currently homeschooled, Herng balances her studies with writing, dedicating time after lessons to her craft. She also takes piano, violin and French lessons, showing that her

SUBANG JAYA: At the age of 12 years, Malaysian author Avril Herng has made an commendable mark in the literary world. Beginning her writing journey at the age of four, she officially published her first novel at 11, and has since released three additional full-length novels, a rare achievement for writers of any age. Her debut novel, Laura Taylor: The Case of the Phantom’s Emerald , introduces readers to protagonist Laura Taylor in a 260-page story featuring 46 characters, many inspired by individuals Herng has met. The second mystery novel in the series, Laura Taylor and The Shadow of Three , further showcases her talent for crafting suspenseful, engaging plots. Drawing from personal experiences, including a trip to London, her stories offer a rich blend of reality and imagination. She has also published two illustrated books for young readers, designed to bridge the gap between picture books and young adult fiction by combining reading and colouring. Her works have reached

Books by Herng (left) have reached a diverse audience, from readers as young as eight to adults in their sixties. – KIRTI N EE RAME S H/THE SUN

me to check and cross-check. Her style is already well-developed, clear and engaging.” Tan emphasised the importance of supporting children in following their passions. “Don’t underestimate your child’s future. “Be bold and support their curiosity. True fulfillment comes from passion and dedication, not money.” Ng also encourages aspiring writers to take the first step. “Just start writing. Don’t overthink it. If you think you can write, just write.”

Tan encouraged her to write and create her first handmade books, gradually guiding her to type, illustrate and even manage her own projects independently. Herng’s older sister, Vanessa Ng, 18, serves as her editor. “It’s quite easy because we’re sisters. We see each other every day, so we work together naturally,” said Ng. She helps with grammar, vocabulary and plot consistency, ensuring that Herng’s stories flow smoothly. “She creates all the characters and writes the story. Then she gives it to

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Call for Seni Citi SYMBOL OF P Kebangsaan Con badge Ministry’s initiative AMA AM

SYMBOL OF PATRIOTISM ... Students of Sekolah Kebangsaan Convent Jalan Peel show their Jalur Gemilang badge yesterday at the launch of Education Ministry’s initiative to instil patriotic spirit in young Malaysians. – A D AM AMIR HAMZAH/THE SUN