08/04/2026

e

IS S N

3 1 41- 0 8 63

WEDNESDAY APR 8, 2026

RM1

9 773141 086004

New Ipsos data shows Malaysians getting happier

Govt’s focus on urban liveability and people- centred Madani policies key feel-good factors: Nga

Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY

Report on — page 4

SCAN ME No. 9115 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

‘Halt Sosma now’ Report on h page 5 Watchdog flags concerns over reform delivery and use of security laws.

A road safety expert says flexible work arrangements could reshape – rather than reduce – traffic patterns. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

No instant relief from opening of Hormuz passage

WFH no cure for deep-rooted traffic gridlock

Report on — page 2

Report on — page 3

Experts warn deeper structural pressures — from geopolitical risks to tight inventories — will keep crude and diesel costs elevated.

Remote work could slash monthly fuel costs by RM169m, but experts caution the situation requires structural reforms.

WEDNESDAY | APR 8, 2026

2

‘Hormuz stability unlikely to instantly relieve fuel costs’ o Multiple factors

Call for urgent shift in energy strategy PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the escalating conflict in West Asia is exposing Malaysia to energy supply disruptions and price volatility, and called for an urgent shift in the country’s energy strategy. He said intensifying geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are reverberating across economies far beyond the region, laying bare deep vulnerabilities in global energy systems and challenging assumptions of economic resilience. Speaking at the Kuala Lumpur-Ankara Dialogue 2026, he said Malaysia must confront the reality that it is not insulated from external shocks. “For Malaysia, this means acknowledging that we are not immune to disruptions in global energy supply,” he said, adding that Putrajaya has taken steps to manage exposure to volatility while safeguarding supply and cushioning cost-of-living pressures. However, he emphasised that short-term interventions would not suffice without long-term structural reform. “This is not merely an environmental necessity. It is a strategic imperative,” he said, calling for a transition towards cleaner and more resilient energy systems. His remarks come as concerns grow over supply disruptions linked to tensions in the Gulf. Last week, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said Malaysia’s petroleum supply remains stable, with sufficient reserves in place, and assured that contingency measures are ready to ensure continuity under any scenario. Also the Energy Transition and Water Transformation minister, Fadillah added that the government stands ready to source fuel from alternative markets should disruptions tied to the West Asia conflict persist. Anwar described the worsening crisis in the Gulf as a “harsh and dismal reality”, marked by civilian casualties, widespread destruction of infrastructure and escalating humanitarian costs. He said the erosion of international norms, coupled with the unchecked use of military force, is undermining global stability. “A rules-based international order cannot be invoked selectively. Its credibility rests on consistent and even-handed application, particularly in moments of crisis.” While condemning violence in Gaza, Lebanon and beyond, Anwar urged restraint, emphasising that diplomacy must remain central despite heightened tensions. “It is incumbent on us to remain cool-headed and steadfast in the pursuit of diplomacy for peace and stability.” He also highlighted the role of middle powers such as Turkiye in de-escalation efforts, pointing to Ankara’s engagement with regional stakeholders, including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Egypt, as a model of constructive diplomacy. He added that Malaysia stands in solidarity with such efforts, alongside partners advocating dialogue and consultation. However, he also said diplomacy without sincerity risks becoming meaningless. “The world has seen too many ceasefires that serve merely as interludes between escalations. What is required now is not the management of conflict, but its resolution.” Anwar underscored the need to strengthen international cooperation, adding that sovereignty, resource security, defence self-reliance and interdependence remain critical pillars of national resilience. He called for broader collaboration beyond governments, involving institutions, industries and civil society, to ensure diplomacy delivers tangible outcomes. Framing the crisis as a defining moment for the global order, Anwar urged collective action to avert long-term instability. “Do we act, collectively and with purpose, to avert a crisis whose consequences would be felt across generations? “Or do we allow short-term calculations for quick gains that lead to long-term instability? “Giving peace a chance is not a mere mantra. It must be built patiently.” – By Harith Kamal

transport route for Malaysia – pricing remains dictated by global markets.” Taylor’s University research cluster lead for innovative management practices Prof Dr Poon Wai Ching said the safe passage of Malaysian vessels through the strait is a positive diplomatic development, but has limited impact on global energy prices. She said structural constraints, particularly on the supply side, continue to underpin high crude and refined fuel prices. “While this eases a specific logistical constraint for Malaysia, it does not materially resolve the broader supply disruptions affecting global markets. Attributing price volatility solely to Strait of Hormuz disruptions would be an oversimplification.” She added that refining capacity constraints and uneven distribution of processing facilities continue to amplify shocks in downstream markets, particularly for diesel. She also pointed to damage to production infrastructure in key Gulf states, which has further delayed supply recovery. “Full restoration of output could take months, even if geopolitical tensions ease. Any stabilisation in prices should be seen as relative rather than a return to pre-crisis levels, as multiple risks continue to support a persistent premium in global energy markets. “In this environment, a rapid reversion to earlier price levels is highly unlikely,” she said, adding that future price movements would depend on geopolitical developments, the pace of infrastructure repair and broader supply demand rebalancing. On the domestic front, Poon said prolonged energy price volatility would continue to feed into inflation, particularly through transport, food and logistics costs.

ease its subsidy burden after a period of elevated spending. “Such an approach is common, in which short-term savings are used to rebuild fiscal buffers rather than translating directly into lower pump prices, particularly for controlled fuels.” He also said several factors could continue to keep prices elevated, including tight global inventories, ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and sustained regional demand, particularly from Asia. “Diesel prices are also more sensitive to supply disruptions and have risen faster than crude due to refining and logistics constraints,” he said, adding that even limited disruptions or renewed tensions could contribute to a risk premium in energy markets. Mohamad Idham said retaining part of any savings would support broader fiscal consolidation efforts, adding that subsidy expenditures had surged during periods of high oil prices. Universiti Kuala Lumpur Business School economist Assoc Prof Dr Aimi Zulhazmi Abdul Rashid said securing crude oil supply from Gulf Cooperation Council countries offers short-term assurance, but does little to shield Malaysia from elevated global prices. He said crude prices remain closely tied to developments surrounding the Iran crisis, with any de-escalation unlikely to trigger a sharp correction. “Even if tensions subside, prices are not expected to fall significantly due to the damage already caused by the attacks.” He added that Malaysia would continue to procure crude at prevailing global market rates, despite smoother passage for its vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. “This only secures the oil tanker

contributing to continued elevated prices: Economist

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Stabilising traffic through the Strait of Hormuz is unlikely to bring immediate relief to fuel prices, with economists saying deeper structural pressures, from geopolitical risks to tight inventories, would keep crude and diesel costs elevated. Despite improving shipping flows through one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, experts say global markets continue to price in risk, limiting any near-term decline in prices. Universiti Teknologi Mara economist Dr Mohamad Idham Md Razak said crude and diesel prices are unlikely to ease significantly even as shipping activity through the strait gradually normalises. “Markets continue to factor in risk premiums, tight inventories and the possibility of further disruptions. “While some easing may occur in the coming weeks if flows continue to stabilise, prices are expected to remain elevated over the next one to three months before gradually moderating later in the year as supply rebuilds and inventories recover.” He added that in Malaysia’s case, any cost savings from improved shipping conditions are unlikely to be fully passed on to consumers, as the government may retain part of the gains to PETALING JAYA: Malaysia has sufficient petroleum supply to withstand global energy volatility in the short term, with no immediate risk of disruption expected at least until June, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said. The assurance reinforces his earlier position, when last month he said the country’s petroleum product supplies are secure at least until May 2026. However, he said the country’s energy position remains structurally exposed, as Malaysia continues to rely on imports of certain premium-grade petroleum products despite being a major producer. “People think we are purely a producing nation – yes, but we are also a net importer,”he said at the Kuala Lumpur–Ankara Dialogue 2026 event. Anwar said supply stability for the coming months is underpinned by Petroliam Nasional Bhd’s (Petronas) strong ties with oil-producing countries. “There may be some price disruptions, but in terms of supply, for the next few months, we are quite assured.” On liquefied natural gas (LNG), he said Malaysia remains well-positioned due to its robust domestic output and established import arrangements, particularly with Australia, as well as procurement efforts in Canada through Petronas’ overseas operations. He added that Malaysia is seeking to deepen cooperation with Turkiye across key sectors, including LNG and semiconductors, as part of a broader push to strengthen bilateral economic ties. He also said his long-standing relationship with Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

See also page 13 Petroleum supply sufficient to withstand volatility: PM

Anwar and Institute of Strategic and International Studies Malaysia executive chairman Datuk Prof Dr Mohd Faiz Abdullah seated next to each other at the event at the Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur. – BERNAMAPIC

pragmatic and stable regional approach. On broader geopolitical tensions, particularly in the South China Sea, Anwar said concerns are often overstated by external parties. “Yes, we have overlapping claims, but neither we nor China have shown any intention to escalate tensions,” he said, adding that Malaysia maintains strong ties with China across trade, investment and defence. He added that Asean would continue efforts to advance a code of conduct with China to manage disputes in the South China Sea, underscoring the importance of resolving regional issues independently. “Whether in the Indian Ocean or the South China Sea, we must maintain our right and independence to resolve our own problems.”

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has helped anchor the growing partnership, with both leaders sharing a sense of urgency in advancing cooperation. Anwar said beyond energy, Malaysia and Turkiye are working towards a comprehensive strategic partnership encompassing government, academic, institutional and people-to-people collaboration. He added that at the regional level, Malaysia continues to prioritise stability and cooperation within Asean, emphasising that existing border issues with neighbouring countries are being managed through dialogue without escalation. He cited ongoing cooperation with Thailand, Brunei and Indonesia, including joint infrastructure and economic initiatives, as evidence of a

WEDNESDAY | APR 8, 2026

3

Palm-oil based biodiesel could provide alternative energy source KUALA LUMPUR: B100, a 100% palm oil-based biodiesel, has the potential to emerge as a more competitive and sustainable alternative energy source amid uncertainties arising from the West Asia crisis, said Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek. He said the B100 implementation, which is still at the policy stage, will kick off within the Felda ecosystem first. Ahmad Shabery said he has brought up the matter with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. “At this stage, a government policy needs to be in place, as we may not have sufficient crude palm oil (CPO) supply to roll out B100 immediately,” he told a press conference here yesterday. B100’s factory price is estimated at about RM4.50 per litre, depending on CPO prices, said Ahmad Shabery. At an estimated price below RM5 per litre, B100 could not only reduce the reliance on diesel, but also support domestic fuel price stabilisation and strengthen national energy security, he said. Ahmad Shabery added that Felda and FGV Holdings Bhd need to expand the B100 biodiesel processing plant development in order to increase production capacity. “We are having discussions to determine the form of partnership, whether to involve full private sector participation, government support or other parties, to meet the requirement of raising B100 capacity.” Since 2025, the B100 biodiesel usage pilot project has been implemented using passenger vehicles for 15 months involving a distance of more than 50,000km. Ahmad Shabery said a four-month trial test using tanker trucks has also been done in 2024. – Bernama Stranded M’sian vessels cleared to pass Hormuz KUALA LUMPUR: The remaining six Malaysian vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz will be cleared to pass through in stages, said Iran’s Ambassador to Malaysia Valiollah Mohammadi Nasrabadi. “We (Iran) will let the ships pass through one by one,” he said on the sidelines of the Kuala Lumpur-Ankara Dialogue yesterday. The Malaysian Foreign Ministry said one of the seven Malaysian-owned vessels previously held in the Strait due to regional tensions has been allowed to proceed to its destination. High-level talks between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on March 26 secured clearance for all seven vessels to resume their journey. The Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint through which about 20% of the world’s crude oil and gas transits, has faced major disruptions following continuous US and Israeli attacks on Iranian territory since Feb 28. These disruptions have caused fuel shortages and rising oil prices. Iran has said it would allow passage for vessels from “non-hostile” nations, ensuring their safe transit. – Bernama

‘Remote work may reshape, not reduce, traffic flow’

o WFH could reduce congestion by relieving pressure during peak hours: Educator

“stopgap measure” rather than a long-term solution. He added that flexible work arrangements could reshape, rather than reduce, traffic patterns. “Instead of two peak-hour commutes, individuals may make multiple off-peak trips throughout the day. “This may ease congestion during rush hours, but overall traffic volume and vehicle travel could remain high.” In suburban areas where daily amenities are not within walking distance, such patterns could result in more dispersed yet persistent traffic throughout the day. Law called for a multi-pronged approach that goes beyond temporary fixes. This includes better integration of public transport systems, expansion of transit-oriented development to bring jobs and housing closer to rail networks, and stronger demand management measures, such as congestion pricing and improved parking controls. He stressed the need to enhance walkability, cycling infrastructure and mixed-use development to cut reliance on cars for short trips.

when they do travel.” He pointed to Malaysia’s deeply entrenched car-centric culture as a key constraint. “In the Klang Valley, private vehicles are often preferred due to their reliability, convenience and comfort, especially given weather conditions and limitations in public transport. “Even with fewer office commutes, people may still rely on cars for midday errands, school runs or leisure activities, offsetting some of the gains from WFH.” Beyond behavioural factors, Law stressed that WFH does little to address structural weaknesses in the region’s transport system. He said the Klang Valley’s urban form remains highly dispersed, with housing, jobs and amenities spread across low-density suburbs, making cars a necessity for many. Gaps in public transport integration also persist, particularly in first and last-mile connectivity, while poor bus reliability and limited priority measures reduce the appeal of alternatives to driving. “Road pricing and parking policies are insufficient to discourage car use,” he said, describing WFH as a

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

workers travelling during these periods could improve traffic flow, especially if demand drops below a critical threshold. “But it does not address all-day congestion as non-work-related trips remain significant.” Law added that projected fuel savings, including an estimated RM169 million monthly reduction if half the region’s workforce worked remotely, are plausible in the short term. However, long-term sustainability depends on whether travel behaviour fundamentally changes, rather than simply shifts, he said. “Some commuting trips may be replaced with other journeys, such as errands, social activities or flexible meetings. “There is also the possibility of residential decentralisation, in which people choose to live further from the city centre if they do not need to commute daily, which could increase travel distances

PETALING JAYA: Work-from-home (WFH) may ease rush-hour gridlock and trim fuel usage, but it is no cure for the Klang Valley’s deep-rooted dependence on cars, experts say. While recent estimates by RimbaWatch suggest that wider adoption of WFH could yield substantial fuel subsidy savings, Universiti Putra Malaysia Road Safety Research Centre head Assoc Prof Dr Law Teik Hua said such gains are likely to be short-lived without structural reforms. He said WFH could reduce congestion, but largely by relieving pressure during peak commuting hours rather than cutting overall traffic volumes. “In the Klang Valley, congestion is largely driven by a concentration of commuting activities within a narrow time window. “Reducing the number of office geopolitical uncertainties, which have impacted the world’s halal supply chains, should not be seen as a threat but as an opening for Malaysia to strengthen its position as a stable and resilient halal hub. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the conflict in West Asia, particularly involving strategic routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, has had a major impact on global supply chains and sparked a domino effect on the halal industry, from rising logistics costs and shipment delays to uncertainty over market access. He said halal products, particularly fresh food and temperature-controlled goods, are highly dependent on an efficient and stable global supply chain, while rising energy and raw material costs put pressure on production costs. “Despite these challenges, there is a reality that we need to look at more strategically because this global uncertainty paves the way for Malaysia to strengthen its position as a stable, trusted and resilient halal hub. “Our ability to diversify export markets, strengthen domestic supply chains and improve logistics efficiency will be the determining factors in ensuring the country’s halal industry continues to grow,” he said at the groundbreaking ceremony for phase two of the Perda Halal Park Industrial Development Project at the Perda Food Park here yesterday. Also present were Rural and Regional Development Deputy Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang, Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Dr

Nation has chance to boost halal hub status: DPM TASEK GELUGOR: Global

Ahmad Zahid visiting the exhibition pavilion in conjunction with the groundbreaking ceremony of the Perda Halal Park Industrial Development Project yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

reached RM61.79 billion, with domestic products penetrating key markets such as China, Singapore, Japan, the United States and Indonesia, Bernama reported. He said based on the Halal Industry Master Plan 2030, the country has set clear targets, namely to increase the halal industry’s contribution to GDP to 11%, achieve an export value of RM70 billion and create about 700,000 highly skilled job opportunities.

country to expand its market share. “This is because halal products are not just for Muslims, but also for all religions and countries, with Malaysia becoming the trusted nation in the world in the production of halal products,” he said, urging halal product producers in Malaysia to capitalise on this great potential. The chairman of the National Halal Council also said in 2024, Malaysia’s halal export value

Mohamad Abdul Hamid, Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican and Penang Regional Development Authority chairman Datuk Dr Shaik Hussein Mydin. Ahmad Zahid, who is also Rural and Regional Development minister, said demand for global halal products, projected to reach around US$5 trillion (RM20 trillion) by 2030, presents a huge opportunity for the

WEDNESDAY | APR 8, 2026

4

‘Happiness level of Malaysians on the rise’

Move to revive plans for Harmony Commission

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: The government is taking steps to tackle rising tensions between communities by reviving plans for a National Harmony and Reconciliation Commission – an independent body aimed at preventing ethnic and religious conflict before it escalates. The National Unity Ministry said the commission would investigate incidents affecting harmony, summon relevant parties, recommend preventive measures and oversee official mediation processes, with public reporting subject to security considerations. The move follows a suggestion by Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye to establish a statutory commission to protect and strengthen national cohesion, reflecting growing concern over recent societal disputes. “The government recognises that maintaining social harmony is crucial for Malaysia’s stability and prosperity,” said National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang. “The renewed initiative reflects our commitment to proactive mediation, prevention and constructive dialogue rather than solely punitive measures.” The ministry added that previous legislative attempts in 2015 and 2019, including the Racial and Religious Hate Crimes Bill and the National Harmony and Reconciliation Bill, were rejected or delayed due to overlapping powers with existing agencies such as the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia and the police. Under the new proposal, the commission would emphasise early intervention, mediation and community education, drawing inspiration from international models, This includes Singapore’s Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act, Australia’s Human Rights Commission and Zimbabwe’s National Peace and Reconciliation Commission. In conjunction with the revival, the National Unity and Integration Department has begun engagement sessions with government agencies, law enforcement, NGO, political parties and local communities to shape the commission’s framework. The ministry added that consultations would continue inclusively over the coming months, paving the way for the drafting of a parliamentary Bill. ‘Varsity-industry ties to be enhanced’ KUALA LUMPUR: The Higher Education Ministry will continue to enhance ties between universities and industry, while reducing bureaucratic hurdles to facilitate the commercialisation of research outcomes. Higher Education Minister Datuk Dr Zambry Abd Kadir emphasised that higher education is no longer confined to campuses and must increasingly engage with industry. He said the collaborations are showing results through research, innovation and commercialisation initiatives. “This is not just the beginning; we have already taken significant steps forward. Continuous efforts are essential, including closer cooperation between the ministry and the private sector,” he told reporters after officiating at the Public-Private Research Network 2026 Conference yesterday. Also present was Higher Education Deputy Minister Adam Adli Abdul Halim. Zambry emphasied that universities must produce research that could be commercialised to generate their own revenue. He added that a major conference involving both industry and universities would be held in September to link research outputs with commercialisation opportunities, which were previously limited. – Bernama

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s happiness level is on the rise, driven by the government’s focus on urban liveability and people-centred policies, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said. Speaking at the national-level World Happiness Day Celebration 2026 event yesterday, Nga pointed to Malaysia’s improved performance in the World Happiness Report 2026 as evidence that the Madani government’s policies are on the right track. “Based on a scale of zero to 10, Malaysia recorded a score of 6.005 for 2023 to 2025, up 0.045 points from around 5.96 previously,” he said. “The score reflects the government’s continuous efforts to ensure the public’s level of happiness not only remains stable but also continues to improve in an increasingly challenging global environment.” He also cited the latest Ipsos Happiness Report 2026, which showed that 81% of Malaysians feel happier this year, up five percentage points from 2025. He added that the national happiness level remains above the global average of 74%, demonstrating the effectiveness of the Madani framework. “Today, we no longer measure development success solely through economic figures or physical progress. Instead, we measure success through the quality of life of the public; their wellbeing, peace of mind and happiness experienced by every layer of society.” He highlighted the Malaysia Happiness Index (MHI), now integrated with Statistics Department data, for a more comprehensive and objective evaluation. Nga explained that the MHI is now complemented by Murninets (Malaysian Urban-Rural National Indicators Network for Sustainable Development), which measures residents’ actual experiences of their local environment and urban services. “For the first time, we applied an 80:20 framework in this assessment,” Nga said. Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com o Score on global report reflects government efforts ensure public joy: Minister

Nga on stage at the event with his deputy Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu (left) and the ministry’s secretary-general Datuk Dr M. Noor Azman Taib. – BERNAMAPIC

infrastructure through 400 projects in Kampung Baru and 100 Madani Recreational Parks, and intensifying waste management via 25 smart solid waste recycling centres. He said urban safety and resilience would also be bolstered. “Malaysia currently has 1,450 flood hotspots, with 145 eliminated last year – a 10% mitigation success. “The government aims to further reduce urban flood risks over the next five to six years through improved data systems and coordinated disaster management.” Nga also urged responsible digital engagement. “Digital platforms significantly shape public perception. Misuse could cause emotional stress, social comparison and mental health challenges. “This year’s theme, ‘Wise Digital, Create Happiness Together’, emphasises that happiness is a collective responsibility, not an individual matter. “Being digitally wise is about ethics, responsibility and communication in the digital space.”

“This ensures that our evaluation of happiness is not based solely on people’s perceptions of their surroundings but also incorporates structured data on their wellbeing. “It gives a more accurate picture of how Malaysians truly experience life in their cities and towns.” He urged local authorities to evolve beyond traditional roles, becoming drivers of smart governance, digital communication and public trust. “Ultimately, a happy city is a city that is safe, comfortable, trusted and believed in by its (residents).” The top 10 recipients of the Happiest City Award 2026 are Dabong (Kelantan), Kluang (Johor), Kuala Terengganu City (Terengganu), Lipis (Pahang), Marang (Terengganu), Mersing (Johor), Permaisuri (Terengganu), Ranau (Sabah), Raub (Pahang) and Simpang Renggam (Johor). Nga also outlined key ministry priorities to strengthen sustainable urban development, including advancing smart city and digital governance agendas, upgrading public

Outdoor activities SOP under review after drowning PUTRAJAYA: The Education Ministry is reviewing the SOP for outdoor activities across all its institutions to strengthen safety measures. from accountability.” She added that several officers directly involved in organising the programme would be temporarily reassigned to the Perlis Education Department while the investigation continues. “We hope the report will be thorough and transparent, especially regarding the standard operating procedures for kayaking activities.

“We also want to know whether the location was suitable for such activities, and we urge the ministry to review the syllabus involving outdoor programmes,” she said when met by reporters at the Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah Forensic Department on Monday. Last Saturday, two Bachelor of Teaching Physical Education trainees were found drowned at about 7.30pm while kayaking at Pantai Merdeka near Sungai Petani. Originally from Sarawak, both their remains were flown back from the Penang International Airport yesterday. – Bernama

The review comes after a drowning incident at Pantai Merdeka last Saturday, which claimed the lives of two trainee teachers from the Institute of Teacher Education Perlis campus during an off campus programme. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the ministry takes full responsibility for the tragedy. “Justice must be served for the families. A transparent, thorough and comprehensive investigation is underway. Any breaches of regulations will be addressed, and no one will be shielded

On Monday, she visited the Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital in Alor Setar, Kedah, to pay her last respects to Christopher Ling and Joey Ling, and met with their families to offer her condolences. Meanwhile, the aunt of one of the trainees Kee Ching Ching, 46, expressed hope that such a tragedy would never happen again. Kee said the family is also calling for a full and transparent report into the incident by the relevant authorities.

WEDNESDAY | APR 8, 2026

5 Call for moratorium on detention law

o Authorities know right thing to do but lack will to do it, says NGO adviser on Sosma

Daughter of Daim Zainuddin charged KUALA LUMPUR: The daughter of the late former Finance minister Tun Daim Zainuddin was charged in the Sessions Court here yesterday with failing to declare her shareholdings in five companies in 2023. Asnida Abdul Daim, 65, pleaded not guilty after the charge was read out to her before judge Rosli Ahmad. She is alleged to have intentionally provided a written sworn statement that did not comply with the terms of a notice issued under Section 36(1)(b) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Act 2009 dated Nov 8, 2023. The notice was served to Asnida on Nov 14, 2023 for failing to declare her shareholdings as required. The shares involved Amiraz Sdn Bhd, Arida Farms Sdn Bhd, Kangkung Catering Sdn Bhd, Transgrade Sdn Bhd and Gajah3 Foods Sdn Bhd. The charge, under Section 36(2) of the Act, carries up to five years’ jail and a maximum fine of RM100,000, if convicted. DPP Mahadi Abdul Jumaat proposed bail at RM100,000 in one surety and asked for Asnida’s passport to be handed over to the court. Her lawyer Datuk Dr Gurdial Singh Nijar applied for a lower bail of around RM15,000 and opposed the additional condition. Rosli set bail at RM50,000 in one surety, ordered Asnida to surrender her passport and fixed May 21 for case mention. In a related development, the Magistrate’s Court yesterday issued arrest warrants against three individuals, including Daim’s two sons, for failing to comply with MACC notices to appear in court. Magistrate Illi Marisqa Khalizan allowed an application by Mahadi for warrants to be issued against Muhammed Amir Zainuddin, 31, Muhammed Amin Zainuddin, 28, and businesswoman Josephine Premla. “I am satisfied that the named individuals had knowledge of the notices issued by the MACC but still failed to present themselves.” The MACC said it would take firm action, including seeking a Red Notice, against the men for failing to appear despite three notices being issued. Josephine also failed to appear without reasonable excuse despite being directed to do so by the MACC. – Bernama without top-level intervention, reforms risk remaining largely symbolic rather than substantive. task force,” stressed Tan, highlighting a persistent lack of independent accountability. Panellists identified political will as the main barrier to reform, with Sevan surmising that authorities know the right thing to do but lack the will to do it. The panel also pointed out internal disagreements, entrenched bureaucracy as well as a lack of a coordinated government strategy as contributing factors that continue to stall meaningful change, despite consultations and legislative promises. The activists issued a direct appeal to the nation’s leadership. “Sosma is a broken vehicle, yet authorities continue to use it. “We urge Anwar to impose an immediate moratorium on its use until the promised amendments are enacted,” the panel concluded, underscoring frustration that

Assembly Act 2012 are often used against organisers who complied fully with notification requirements. “These investigations function as tools of intimidation. “We cannot see the government taking serious efforts to improve foreign worker recruitment,” she said, adding that authorities often remain unresponsive to cases of abuse and trafficking. Despite the government’s shortcomings, a panellist also pointed out positive developments, such as steps towards abolishing the mandatory death penalty. However, the report also highlighted that oversight of police misconduct remains limited with investigative bodies such as the Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission (IPCC), while the police integrity unit operates without transparency and serious cases often remain under police-led task forces. “The primary investigative body should have been IPCC, not a police

speech,” she stressed, noting that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had promised in 2023 that criticism would not trigger sedition investigations. Panellists at the forum painted a picture of a government that engages civil society but fails to follow through with substantive reforms. “Now you get some attention, but no progress at all,” said the NGO’s adviser Sevan Doraisamy, describing a concerning disconnect between promises and practical implementation. Although legislative amendments to Sosma and other laws have been proposed, authorities continue to exercise broad powers, such as detentions under problematic procedures. Human rights defenders reported arrests even in front of their offices, illustrating the law’s ongoing misuse while freedom of assembly remains limited in application. Tan noted that Section 9(5) investigations under the Peaceful

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

monitoring coordinator Jernell Tan explained that criticism of political leaders is a leading trigger for sedition investigations. “Of 97 sedition-related inquiries in 2025, only three led to charges,” she said, pointing to an arbitrary application of the law. Public demonstrations, symbolic acts such as effigy-wrapping, and poster-burning have increasingly been treated as criminal offences under the Sedition Act 1948. While authorities have occasionally consolidated multiple cases for media statements, the precise nature of the criticisms often remains undisclosed. “Investigations against public officials should respect international standards, criticism without incitement should be protected

KUALA LUMPUR: Civil society watchdog Suara Rakyat Malaysia (Suaram) has urged Putrajaya to impose an immediate moratorium on the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (Sosma), claiming that the law continues to be misused despite ongoing reform pledges. The call comes as scrutiny intensifies over Malaysia’s human rights record, particularly on freedom of expression, public assembly and police accountability. The launch of its Malaysia Human Rights Report 2025 yesterday highlighted troubling trends in the application of sedition laws. Its documentation and

Human rights report shows cracks in justice system KUALA LUMPUR: Thousands have been arrested under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (Sosma) since 2012, yet up to nearly a third were later released without charge, exposing deep and persistent cracks in the country’s justice system.

According to the Malaysia Human Rights Report 2025 by Suara Rakyat Malaysia, 6,892 arrests have been made under the law, with between 20% and 28% of detainees eventually freed without prosecution. Its coordinator Jernell Tan (pic) said Malaysia’s human rights landscape continues to be defined by a disconnect between reform rhetoric and entrenched state structures that prioritise securitised control and institutional preservation over constitutional safeguards and accountability. While the government moved swiftly in response to hunger strikes and memoranda submitted by families of Sosma detainees,

pledging amendments to the law, progress has remained slow and largely confined to the review stage, mirroring similar promises made in 2018 and 2023. “The report points out that the 28-day detention period without judicial oversight contributes to investigative weaknesses and procedural lapses,” she said.

Suara Rakyat Malaysia executive director Azura Nasron (second, left) during the launch of the report at the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

remain pronounced, the report added. State Islamic authorities are expanding control over alternative spiritual and wellness practices, while LGBTQ+ individuals continue to face arrests, censorship and public shaming. The 2025 Otot2 raid in Kuala Lumpur exemplified alleged violations of due process and basic human dignity, including sexual harassment, denial of medical care and deprivation of basic necessities. Malaysia’s management of migrants and refugees also remains heavily securitised, with more than 21,000 individuals detained in overcrowded facilities, it said. Exploitative recruitment practices, exclusion from labour protections as well as forced labour persist as systemic issues, leaving many trapped in debt bondage and precarious legal conditions. “Other areas of concern include the lack of transparency in the resentencing process following the 2023 abolition of the mandatory death penalty, limited legal protections for juvenile offenders and individuals with mental health conditions, and environmental and climate policies advancing without coherent rights-based frameworks. “Indigenous communities and environmental defenders continue to face inadequate protection, intimidation and Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation threats,” said Tan. – BY KIRTINEE RAMESH

She added that civic freedoms remain constrained. Although the Federal Court struck down Section 9(5) of the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012, affirming the state’s duty to facilitate peaceful protests, police interventions and arrests over symbolic acts of civil disobedience persist. The Court of Appeal’s ruling in the Heidy Quah case, which invalidated the terms “annoy” and “offensive” in Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, was also promptly challenged by the government. Meanwhile, efforts towards media self-regulation through the Malaysian Media Council stand in contrast to continued criminal probes and fines against investigative journalists and newspapers, including over minor errors. On governance, the report notes uneven implementation of reforms. Amendments to the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010 and the reintroduction of the Parliamentary Services Act 2025 signal some responsiveness, but centralised discretionary powers in procurement laws and entrenched patronage politics continue to dilute anti-corruption efforts. “Judicial independence faces pressure from tenure controversies and delayed appointments, raising concerns about interference from within and outside the judiciary,” she said. Religious oversight and restrictions on sexual orientation, gender identity and expression also

“At the same time, the Home Ministry has provided no updates on amendments to the Prevention of Crime Act 1959, despite calls to extend it to address organised and environmental crimes.” Tan said transparency and accountability remain lacking, particularly in cases involving alleged state-perpetrated violations and the treatment of individuals deprived of liberty. The NGO highlighted the alleged mass assault of 107 detainees at Taiping Prison, suspected to have led to the death of Gan Chin Eng. Families seeking justice complained of encountering institutional barriers, while the state pursued what was described as disproportionate legal responses. Similarly, the Durian Tunggal police shooting, which raised concerns about extrajudicial killing, has seen slow progress, despite instructions from the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) to reclassify the case as murder. “Although the High Court in November 2025 affirmed state liability for the enforced disappearances of pastor Raymond Koh and Amri Che Mat, the AGC’s swift appeal signals reluctance to uphold victims’ constitutional right to effective remedies,” said Tan.

WEDNESDAY | APR 8, 2026

6

Paradise lost in Semporna

designated outlets and dive with imported instructors. Local operators are often cut out entirely. “In the past, we were the service providers. Now we are being pushed to the edges, watching the money flow past,” he said. The Malaysia Scuba Diving Association has also raised concerns over a surge of illegal and unregistered foreign dive instructors operating in Sabah waters. Its president, Aminor Azmi Abdul Latip described “Ali Baba” arrangements where locals hold licences on paper while foreign operators run the business – undercutting certified Malaysian instructors trained through state-backed programmes. Beyond livelihoods, he warned of a growing safety risk, with compromised training standards potentially endangering lives. Sabah Tourism Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin has acknowledged the risk of Semporna becoming an enclave economy – where profits flow out while local communities see little return. A task force has since been established to regulate the industry more systematically. The scale of the challenge is significant. Of the 190 tourism premises identified in Semporna, only 45 hold valid licences. Eighty-six are operating without proper compliance, including having certified sewage systems. In blunt terms, some luxury villas are discharging untreated waste directly into the sea.

o Beyond postcard-perfect reefs lies pollution, stateless communities and foreign-controlled tourism that could jeopardise island’s future, say dive professionals

SEMPORNA: The glossy brochures sell it as paradise – crystalline waters, kaleidoscopic coral reefs and world class dive sites just a speedboat ride from shore. For scuba divers and snorkellers worldwide, Semporna on Sabah’s southeastern coast remains a dream destination. But the reality begins at the mainland jetties. The air smells of diesel. Plastic waste drifts across the water’s surface. Veteran dive instructor Aquila Chu, 41, has a standing piece of advice for his international clients: close your eyes, board the boat and do not look until you reach the islands. For those working in Semporna’s tourism trade, the pollution is impossible to ignore. Divemaster Yong Lip Khiong points to a grim irony – discarded plastic bottles have become makeshift habitats for marine life, the very ecosystem tourists travel thousands of miles to see and which sustains the local economy. Blame, however, has long been directed at the Bajau Laut community, who live in water villages

off Semporna’s coast. A 2024 survey by the Eastern Sabah Security Command estimated that of the roughly 28,000 Bajau Laut residents, fewer than 6,200 hold Malaysian citizenship, leaving the majority stateless and largely excluded from public services. Chu rejects the scapegoating. “You cannot expect a community without access to clean drinking water to champion marine conservation,” he said, arguing that the issue is not awareness but the absence of basic infrastructure. Fisherman Otoh Lasa, 68, who has spent his entire life in Kampung Air, frames the shift over decades. In the past, waste – fish bones, banana leaves, tapioca peels – was biodegradable and naturally absorbed by the sea. Plastic arrived with modernisation but the systems to manage it never followed. What the Bajau Laut are asking for is basic: scheduled waste collection for water villages, public bins at jetties and access to piped water to reduce reliance on single-use plastic bottles. Without clean water, those bottles will continue to accumulate in the

Jafry said while Semporna’s beauty endures, there is a risk of the island becoming an enclave economy where profits flow out while local communities see little return. – BERNAMAPIC

February that 81 accommodation premises in the district are largely operated by foreign companies, some entirely so, with locals acting only as nominal licence holders. For local charter boat operator Azman, 45, the impact is immediate. His business now depends largely on independent travellers and backpackers – the margins left behind by a market increasingly dominated by vertically integrated foreign operators. He describes a familiar chain: tourists arrive in Tawau, board foreign-owned transport, stay in foreign-managed resorts, dine at

sea, reported Bernama. In the absence of consistent government intervention, civil society has stepped in. Last October, youths from Skuad Anak Sabah made history by collecting a staggering 8,833.80kg of trash in Semporna. It was recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records as the heaviest waste collection by an NGO in Malaysia. Yet the environmental strain is only one side of the crisis. Semporna generates significant tourism revenue, but much of it does not stay in Sabah. Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali revealed in

SUBSCRIBE TO theSun TODAY!

ONLY RM 1 PER COPY!

Enjoy daily access to:

The latest local & global news Top entertainment & sports stories All in 32 Full Colour pages

Stay informed 7 days a week! Just real news, straight to you.

SUBSCRIBE NOW!

WEDNESDAY | APR 8, 2026

7

Vietnam’s top leader wins state presidency

Filipino farmers abandoning harvests BENGUET: Filipino farmers like Romeo Wagayan have been left with little choice but to let their vegetables rot in the field rather than sell them at a loss, as rising oil prices drive up the cost of harvesting, labour and transport. “There’s nothing we can do,” said Wagayan, a 57-year old vegetable farmer in the northern Philippine province of Benguet. “If we harvest, our losses only increase because of labour, transport and packing costs. We don’t earn anything. That’s why we decided not to harvest at all.” Soaring costs are piling pressure on farmers, with the Southeast Asian archipelago particularly vulnerable to oil shocks because of its heavy reliance on imported fuel. Wagayan’s experience mirrors the challenges faced by many highland farmers, according to Agot Balanoy, an adviser at La Trinidad’s vegetable trading hub, who said that a number of growers are halting harvests as buyers pull out as a result of weak demand and surging costs. Balanoy said some buyers are cancelling or limiting purchases, reflecting a shift in consumer behaviour as households grappling with soaring inflation cut back on vegetables and opt instead for cheaper, filling alternatives such as instant noodles. It costs farmers 18 to 20 pesos (RM1.20 to RM1.30) to produce a kilo of cabbage, Balanoy said, covering basic farm inputs such as seeds and fertilisers, but farmgate prices have collapsed to as low as three pesos, and in recent days have hovered at just five to eight pesos per kilo. The downturn has been exacerbated by the sharp increases in fuel prices, which have pushed up the costs of transporting produce from mountainous farms to trading posts and urban markets, while also driving up the price of farm inputs such as fertiliser. “The increase in diesel prices has a really big impact on us, both during planting and harvesting,” said 27-year-old vegetable farmer Arnold Capin. He said long delivery trips often mean farmers are left with little or nothing once the produce is sold. – Reuters

o To Lam has double mandate to rule country

HANOI: Vietnam’s lawmakers yesterday unanimously elected Communist Party General Secretary To Lam as the country’s president for the next five years, making him the most powerful Vietnamese leader in decades. The widely anticipated move marks a break from Vietnam’s traditional collective leadership system, consolidating authority in one figure in ways analysts say could tilt the one-party state toward greater authoritarianism, while also enabling faster decision making, similar to its neighbour China. The parliament said on its website that all 495 deputies present at yesterday’s National Assembly session endorsed the Communist Party’s nomination, while five lawmakers were absent. Officials have said the nominations for top state leadership posts were finalised at a meeting late last month. The former head of public security now has a double mandate to rule the country for the next five years, after he secured a second term as general secretary in January. Parliament will later elect a new prime minister who will replace the outgoing Pham Minh Chinh. After the vote, Lam told deputies in a televised address that it was an honour to hold both posts and pledged “a new growth model with science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation as the primary driving forces”. He also said he would prioritise self reliance in defence. He said his top priorities were to maintain stability, promote rapid and sustainable national development and improve “all aspects of people’s lives”. Analysts said Lam’s dual role could make it easier for him to achieve his goals, while cautioning against the risks of excessive power concentration. “Concentrating greater power in To Lam’s

To Lam (left) receives a bouquet from National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man. – NATIONAL ASSEMBLY HANDOUT/REUTERSPIC

At least two million Filipinos live in the Middle East. Mostly guest workers, they send billions of dollars in remittances home each year. Thousands of Filipino sailors have found themselves trapped in the Strait of Hormuz, awaiting safe passage. The Philippines said last week that Iran had pledged to allow “the safe, unhindered, and expeditious passage of Philippine-flagged vessels, energy sources and Filipino seafarers”. – AFP general secretary Nguyen Phu Trong. Even after relinquishing the state presidency in favour of army general Luong Cuong, Lam often acted as if he had retained the role, travelling extensively and representing the country in meetings with foreign leaders. In his first stint as party chief, 68-year-old Lam launched sweeping economic reforms designed to make Vietnam more competitive, which drew both praise and criticism. Lam has vowed to pursue double-digit growth through a new development model that is less reliant on low-cost manufacturing, long the backbone of Vietnam’s export-driven boom and led by foreign multinationals. – Reuters

victim’s given name as Lucille-Jean, saying that she and her family had been pulled from the rubble of their collapsed residence. “The Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv has informed the family and is providing all necessary assistance, including arrangements for the earliest possible repatriation of her remains,” the Foreign Affairs Department said. Mary Ann Velasquez De Vera, a 32-year-old caregiver, became the war’s first Philippine fatality on March 1 as she attempted to escort her elderly ward to a bomb shelter. hands could pose risks to Vietnam’s political system, such as increased authoritarianism,” said Le Hong Hiep, senior fellow at the ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore. However, such consolidation “could enable Vietnam to formulate and implement policies more quickly and effectively,” supporting growth, he said. The combination of the two roles “will shift Vietnam’s domestic politics to a new normal where most of the old assumptions about Vietnam’s politics, including those about collective leadership, are no longer valid,” said Alexander Vuving of the Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies in the United States. Lam held both posts for a few months following the death in 2024 of the late party

Second Philippine victim killed in Haifa MANILA: The Middle East war has claimed its second Philippine victim, Manila said yesterday, when a missile struck the home of a Filipina living in Israel.

The woman was killed in the port city of Haifa on Sunday “alongside her Israeli husband and elderly parents-in-law”, the Foreign Affairs Department said, without naming the victims. Israeli rescue services said on Monday that the bodies of four people had been recovered from the rubble of a residential building. Israeli news outlets identified the Filipina

A field of cabbages left to rot in Atok, Benguet. – REUTERSPIC

Nepal vows action against trekkers rescue scam KATHMANDU: Nepal’s government has developed tough measures to stamp out insurance scams involving unnecessary helicopter rescues of trekkers, an official said yesterday, a long-running racket threatening the country’s tourism industry. evacuations for insurance payouts, and 32 people have been charged after an investigation in an alleged US$19.69 million (RM79.4 million) scam. Police say the scam worked by filing multiple insurance claims for a single rescue, meaning charter flight companies were paid several times for the same unnecessary flight.

Nepal’s lucrative climbing and trekking season, when mountaineers can pay tens of thousands of dollars, trusting their guides to lead them into highly dangerous peaks, where acute mountain sickness can be deadly. Police said that there was “no evidence” to suggest Everest guides were involved in the scam. The Nepal Mountaineering Association has also said there were “no verified cases of food poisoning or the alleged overdosing of Diamox (a drug used for altitude sickness) involving climbers in Nepal”. – AFP

investigations, and publicising those guilty of fraud. It said a task force involving the police, tourist board and aviation officials would “strengthen oversight and conduct regular audits”, as well as to ensure guides and trekking agencies were licensed. A 2018 government investigation identified 15 companies involved in similar scams, but no action was taken, allowing them to persist despite new guidelines introduced after warnings from insurers. The investigation comes ahead of

Investigators said some trekkers were even intentionally made sick – by serving contaminated meals or even adding baking soda – to justify a helicopter ride out. Trekkers were also pressured into airlifts even for minor illnesses. The ministry has said a “zero tolerance policy” will be implemented to stamp out fraud, including

“The government is taking several steps to ensure that there is an investigation and immediate action against any fraudulent practices,” said Jaya Narayan Acharya, spokesman at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation. “Tourism is an important industry. We must take corrective action against any malpractice.”

The Himalayan nation, home to eight of the world’s 10 highest peaks including Everest, attracts thousands of trekkers each year, many walking remote high-altitude trails where emergency airlifts are costly. But police say some operators have for years orchestrated fraudulent