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Vox machina AI may be draining life, identity from writing – P22 MONDAY | APR 20, 2026

WEEKLY FOCUS MONDAY Technology and social media

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Errant traders in Penang thumb nose at authorities Violators blocking pedestrian walkways with wares treating penalties as ‘part of operating costs’.

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TUESDAY Family and parenting

WEDNESDAY Fashion and beauty

THURSDAY Home and living

FRIDAY Travel and leisure

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p 23 Vivo V70 FE pairs style with solid battery life

p 24 Artificial intelligence

p 25 M’sian students bring innovation to tech expo

taking over country music

1,000 homes razed Report on h page 5 Massive fire at Sabah water village leaves more than 9,000 homeless in worst incident on record.

The blaze swept swiftly across the densely packed wooden structures due to strong winds, with firefighting operations hampered by narrow access routes. – BERNAMAPIC

Legal framework to bust organised criminal networks proposed Need for law to dismantle syndicates by addressing coordinated crime patterns instead of isolated offences.

Return of Umno stalwarts signals calculated organisational reset Move indicates internal rebuilding and efforts aimed at repositioning party within Unity govt: Analyst

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MONDAY | APR 20, 2026

‘Return of leaders to Umno signals calculated party reset’

Uphold integrity and reformist ideals, PKR members told KUALA LUMPUR: PKR information chief Datuk Fahmi Fadzil stressed the importance of party members remaining responsive to the people and committed to their responsibilities while safeguarding the party’s reformist ideals. Officiating at the PKR Gombak branch 2026 AGM yesterday, he reminded members to continuously uphold integrity and resist any element of corruption that could undermine the party’s principles. “Do not allow attitudes, especially the seeds of corruption, to erode the spirit of reform. This is a reminder to all of us, including myself, to ensure that beyond political stability, our efforts for the people remain consistent and meaningful.” Fahmi said the actions and behaviour of leaders are constantly observed and evaluated by the public. He cautioned party leaders and members at all levels against becoming complacent or too comfortable in their positions, to the point of losing touch with the grassroots and the party’s founding struggle. Despite PKR leading the Selangor administration since 2008, he stressed that unity and stability must continue to be preserved across all levels of leadership. – Bernama

o Analysts say move suggests attempt to improve position within Unity govt, but express qualms over genuine renewal Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com Minister Datuk Seri Anwar

“Reform has never been part of its language,” she said, adding that Umno appears more focused on political survival than transformation. On the broader Unity government, she said credibility concerns extend beyond Umno. “The loss of credibility was there from the start, and Zahid’s court cases being resolved the way they were only reinforced perceptions about political priorities. “And now, Pakatan Harapan is facing its own controversies.” She said voter behaviour has remained largely stable despite growing disillusionment. “For voters, not much has changed. There is disillusionment but it has evolved rather than shifted dramatically.”

International Islamic University Malaysia political analyst and Iseas– Yusof Ishak Institute fellow Assoc Prof Dr Syaza Shukri offered a more sceptical view, saying perceptions of reform have largely remained unchanged since the 2022 general election. “People who voted for change didn’t vote for Umno. I don’t think it significantly alters views on reform. Voters already understood in 2022 that governing within a unity coalition would be difficult.” She said the removal of certain Umno leaders stemmed more from internal disagreements than public pressure. “These leaders were removed due to disagreements with Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, not because of voter sentiment. “So, I don’t think it affects perceptions of reform. If anything, it reinforces the view that Umno is unlikely to change significantly.” She said Umno’s internal reshuffle only deepens existing perceptions about its priorities.

Ibrahim.” He pointed out that the return of high-profile figures could quietly reshape internal dynamics. “A realignment of power within the party leadership is a real possibility. The return of prominent personalities may exert pressure on existing leaders – not through open confrontation but competition over legitimacy, influence and the party’s future direction.” Awang Azman stressed that reintegration must be carefully managed to avoid internal friction. “Without a clear transition period before these figures assume strategic roles or contest seats, tensions between long-standing loyalists and returning members could intensify,” he said, adding that a more assertive Umno could adopt an increasingly transactional approach within the Unity government, with stability hinging on political negotiations rather than formal arrangements, particularly in overlapping electoral contests.

PETALING JAYA: The return of senior Umno figures, including Khairy Jamaluddin, Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein and Tan Sri Dr Syed Hamid Albar under the Rumah Bangsa narrative signals a calculated party reset ahead of the 16th general election (GE16), say analysts. However, they are divided on whether it reflects genuine renewal or a consolidation of old power structures. Universiti Malaya socio-political analyst Prof Datuk Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi said the move points to more than internal rebuilding, suggestive of a broader attempt to reposition Umno within the Unity government. “This reflects a two-layered strategy – internal reconciliation to strengthen party structures, and a recalibration of power to enhance its bargaining position within the unity coalition led by Prime

She added that Umno may now be in a relatively stronger strategic position within the coalition, not due to electoral gains but internal stabilisation and ongoing efforts to rehabilitate its image before GE16. “I don’t think Umno or Barisan Nasional can win on its own or emerge as the largest coalition. But if the focus is on rebuilding its image, that in itself is already a ‘win’ for Umno.” Much work for Madani govt to do before GE16: Media veteran

Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: The Madani government still has much work to do to strengthen public confidence ahead of the 16th general election (GE16), with electoral trends suggesting that support has yet to fully consolidate, said veteran newsman Datuk A. Kadir Jasin. Drawing on voting patterns since 2022, he said the ruling coalition remains on a competitive footing, although challenges persist in translating its position into a clear majority mandate. In an analysis of the current political landscape, Kadir pointed to the outcome of GE15 and the 2023 state polls as indicators of a still-evolving support base. He said Pakatan Harapan (PH) fell short of a simple majority in GE15, leading to the formation of a unity government with Barisan Nasional (BN), particularly Umno. “That result alone should be taken as the baseline. PH did not win outright. It formed the government through post-election alignments,” Kadir told theSun. He said the six-state elections in 2023 – widely viewed as a referendum on the federal administration – also offered mixed signals on voter sentiment. “If those state elections are any indication of national sentiment, then PH together with Umno did not perform convincingly. “In fact, in several areas, they underperformed,” he said, citing the narrow retention of Pahang as a cautionary sign. He also said cooperation with Umno has yet to translate into a broader consolidation of Malay support, which remains a key electoral battleground. “Umno itself is struggling with credibility issues, and that burden does not disappear simply by being part of the government.”

Kadir said economic pressures continue to shape voter sentiment and remain a key test for the administration. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

Parti Bangsa Malaysia (one), Parti Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat (one) as well as two independent candidates. The outcome led to a five-day political impasse, prompting the intervention of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and culminating in the formation of a unity government. Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was sworn in as Malaysia’s 10th prime minister on Nov 24, 2022. While GE16 is constitutionally due by Feb 17, 2028, there is ongoing speculation that Parliament could be dissolved earlier. One scenario under discussion is aligning the general election with upcoming state polls, particularly in Malacca and Johor, whose legislative terms are set to expire in December 2026 and April 2027 respectively.

improving, political goodwill dissipates quickly.” Looking ahead, Kadir said much would depend on how effectively current challenges are addressed before GE16. “Based on present indicators, it would be difficult for PH to improve on its 2022 performance. The risk is that it could do worse if underlying issues are not addressed.” GE15, held on Nov 19, 2022, resulted in Malaysia’s first hung Parliament, with no single coalition securing a simple majority. PH emerged as the largest bloc (81 seats), followed by Perikatan Nasional (74) and BN (30). Other parties that gained representation included Gabungan Parti Sarawak (23 seats), Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (six), Warisan (three),

He highlighted the pace of institutional reform – a core pillar of PH’s political narrative – as an area closely watched by the public. “There is a perception that reformasi has slowed. Efforts at parliamentary reform have not made the kind of impact many hoped for.” Kadir said clearer and more consistent visibility from leaders driving reform could help reinforce public confidence. “Leadership on reform must be visible and consistent. Without that, the narrative weakens.” He added that economic pressures, particularly the cost of living, continue to shape voter sentiment and remain a key test for the administration. “When people feel that their situation is not

MONDAY | APR 20, 2026

Concerns persist over recruitment of migrant workers

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

cannot be measured by technological performance alone. The real measure is whether workers are protected,” he said. Citing field data, Tenaganita said that since 2023, more than 400,000 migrant workers have entered Malaysia only to find themselves without employers, valid work permits or basic protections. Many have been left stranded, forced into irregular employment and exposed to exploitation. “This is not a technical glitch. This is systemic failure – it’s a national disgrace,” said Tenaganita, adding that affected workers remain without wages, justice or meaningful recourse. Tenaganita also rejected any attempt to revive or rebrand past systems, including continued involvement of Bestinet or similar models, which it claims have caused widespread harm. It warned that without proper oversight, basic safeguards such as fair contracts, timely wages and humane working conditions could continue to be overlooked. “Exploitation does not disappear. It simply shifts, adapts and continues,” it said. Das said no new system should be introduced without first acknowledging past failures, stressing that meaningful reform must begin with transparency and accountability. She described the current moment as pivotal for Malaysia’s migration policy direction. “We can continue down the path of fragmented, profit-driven systems, or rebuild a framework that is just, transparent and centred on human dignity.” She urged the government to act with “honesty, courage and accountability”, warning that anything less would only reproduce the same cycles of exploitation but under a different name. Campaign to promote active living among civil servants launched KANGAR: The Health Ministry is ramping up efforts to promote active living among civil servants with the launch of a 90-day Healthy Steps Challenge between state health departments, beginning April 27. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the nationwide challenge, which runs until July 27, will be conducted via digital platforms under the Healthy and Prosperous Civil Servants Initiative (i-PASS). “The Healthy Steps Challenge is part of a broader push to strengthen teamwork while fostering a culture of healthy living through digital engagement,” he said. His speech was delivered by Health Deputy Director-General (Public Health) Dr Ismuni Bohar at the launch of the national World Physical Activity Day and Northern Zone Fitness Carnival 2026 yesterday. The event was officiated by the Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail. Dzulkefly cited the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023, which found that 29.9% of Malaysians are physically inactive, up from 25.1% in 2019. He added that 84% of adults do not participate in sports, fitness or leisure activities, while one in two spends more than two hours daily in sedentary behaviour. “This is a worrying trend and a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. It calls for a more strategic and integrated approach to drive behavioural change,” he said. He also urged the public to take precautions during the current hot weather, including staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activity between 11am and 4pm, and seeking medical attention if experiencing dizziness, nausea or extreme fatigue. - Bernama

PETALING JAYA: Calls for Malaysia to consider a Rico-style legal framework are intensifying as observed by a criminologist who said organised crime in the country may have evolved into sophisticated, corporate-like networks that existing laws may struggle to dismantle effectively. The debate gained renewed attention following remarks by former Economy minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli who said Malaysia lacks a comprehensive legal mechanism similar to the United States’ Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organisations (Rico) Act – a federal law designed to dismantle entire criminal enterprises by prosecuting patterns of coordinated criminal activity rather than isolated offences. Organised crime in Malaysia, it is believed, to have moved far beyond traditional street gangs, evolving into complex, networked structures that increasingly operate through legitimate businesses, nominee arrangements and layered financial systems. Criminologist Dr Haezreena Begum Abdul Hamid said the country’s organised crime landscape is now best understood as “hybrid” in nature rather than purely gang-based. “Traditional gangs and territorially rooted syndicates still matter, especially in drugs, extortion, illegal gambling and smuggling. “But increasingly, we are seeing a more layered model – networks using legitimate companies, nominee structures and professionals to shield illicit activity and move proceeds,” said the Universiti Malaya Faculty of Law senior lecturer. She said enforcement observations, including those highlighted by the Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission, point to the rise of so called “corporate mafia” networks operating PETALING JAYA: Malaysia risks repeating past failures in its migrant worker recruitment system unless it urgently restores transparency and accountability, Tenaganita has warned. Executive director Glorene A. Das said public confidence in labour migration policies has been severely eroded by years of shifting decisions, policy reversals and unfulfilled promises. She stressed that a simple denial over the reported involvement of private entities in recruitment processes is no longer sufficient to reassure the public. “It raises more concerns than reassurance,” she said, describing it as part of a troubling pattern in which decisions appear to proceed without transparency, only to be clarified after public scrutiny. Das said the issue extends beyond any single company, pointing instead to deep-rooted structural weaknesses in Malaysia’s migration governance. She noted the country’s long-standing problems with opaque recruitment systems, monopolistic arrangements and private intermediaries profiting at the expense of migrant workers. Against this backdrop, she said the government must clearly state whether firms such as Bestinet Sdn Bhd will play any role in future systems. “Ambiguity is no longer acceptable.” Tenaganita also cautioned against portraying direct hiring as a blanket solution. While reducing reliance on intermediaries may appear progressive, the group warned that without robust safeguards, such a move could merely shift Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Das said public confidence in labour migration policies has been severely eroded by years of shifting decisions, policy reversals and unfulfilled promises. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

reforms. He called for measures such as zero recruitment fees, standardised contracts, independent grievance mechanisms and stricter enforcement against abusive practices. He also stressed that reforms must involve civil society organisations and migrant workers themselves, not just industry players or consultants. Meanwhile, Tenaganita’s Migrant Rights Programme officer Abdul Aziz Ismail challenged the effectiveness of the foreign workers centralised management system. “Effectiveness

exploitation from agents to employers. “Without a regulated and transparent framework, what we risk is not reform, but a quiet reshaping of exploitation.” Das highlighted concerns that employers could assume recruitment roles without adequate oversight, while workers remain exposed to hidden fees and informal arrangements that leave them indebted even before starting work. Tenaganita’s Business and Accountability Programme officer Joseph Maliamauv said Malaysia requires a comprehensive national labour migration framework rather than piecemeal

‘Malaysia needs specific laws to address organised crime’

o Operations have evolved into complex enterprise networks, exposing gaps in fragmented legal framework: Criminologist

persistent enforcement challenge – particularly in prosecuting those at the top of criminal networks. “Higher-level organisers are often far removed from the underlying criminal acts. They do not handle the drugs, make the calls or sign the documents directly. “Instead, they operate through intermediaries, shell companies and layered financial arrangements, making it harder to establish clear evidential links in court.” Recent findings by the Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering further highlight these challenges, noting difficulties in converting complex financial investigations into successful prosecutions. The report also observed that enforcement efforts tend to focus more on lower-level offenders, raising concerns over whether major organised crime networks are being effectively dismantled. However, Haezreena cautioned against viewing the issue solely through the lens of missing legislation. “The problem is not just about whether a specific law exists. It is also about intelligence gathering, financial investigation capacity, inter agency coordination and prosecution strategy.” She added that effectively tackling organised crime requires linking individual offences to wider networks, tracing financial flows and building cases that connect operational actors to those directing activities behind the scenes. “Malaysia already has useful legal tools. The key issue is whether they are being deployed in a coordinated manner to target organised crime as a structure, rather than as isolated offences.”

through legitimate business structures. “This is closer to an enterprise model than an old-style street gang,” she added. However, Haezreena cautioned that while the Rico model is often cited in policy discussions, Malaysia is not without legal tools to address organised crime. She said the Penal Code already contains provisions targeting organised criminal groups, including offences involving recruitment, participation and facilitation, along with enhanced penalties for crimes committed within such structures. “The stronger issue is that Malaysia’s framework is fragmented, not unified.” Different laws serve different functions, she explained. The Penal Code provides substantive offences, the Prevention of Crime Act (POCA) functions as a preventive control mechanism, while the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act (AMLA) focuses on financial tracking and asset recovery. “This differs from the Rico Act in the United States, which is designed to target and dismantle an entire criminal enterprise through a pattern of coordinated criminal conduct,” she said. Singapore, she added, offers a closer regional comparison through its Organised Crime Act, which allows authorities to pursue those who finance or direct criminal groups at the highest level. “In Malaysia, the laws contain elements of this approach, but not within a single, coherent architecture.” This fragmentation, she said, contributes to a

MONDAY | APR 20, 2026

Next-gen army radios shown to govt

“Additionally, the radio system is resilient against jamming and supports the transmission of large data files, including images and video, serving as a reliable backup to satellite communications. This makes it well-positioned to support not only military operations but also disaster response and remote-area emergency communications.” ADS business development director Lt Col Shane Chin said the demonstration underscored the system’s potential as a dependable backup to satellite communications, ensuring resilient connectivity during critical operations. The demonstration was conducted simultaneously across three locations – Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu using 400W systems and Lumut using a 125W system – with live streaming between sites.

10 times higher than conventional HF systems, ensuring resilient long range communications of up to 10,000km. “Fully interoperable with existing radios in the army’s inventory, the solution provides secure transmissions, low operating costs and long-range coverage in constrained environments, making it ideal for Malaysia’s tropical terrain. “Integration into existing inventory will be seamless, with plug and-play interoperability and no requirement for additional infrastructure,” he said. Riou said the April 9 demonstration highlighted stable connectivity, ease of deployment and adaptability across varied operating scenarios. He added that the system could also play a wider role beyond military use.

written statement, said Thales would provide training and knowledge transfer covering areas such as maintenance, repair and overhaul, integration and testing, to support the system’s operational readiness. Riou said ADS, meanwhile, would supply the accessories, with about 30% of the work and components to be sourced locally. . On the system’s capabilities, he said the HF XL radio was engineered to transmit significantly more data than legacy high-frequency systems while remaining compatible with the army’s existing radio inventory. “The HF XL radio system, manufactured by Thales, introduces a new generation of high-data-rate HF communications, building on Thales’ long-standing expertise in tactical radio solutions. The system is capable of delivering data rates up to

o Demonstration by defence entities connects KL, Kota Kinabalu and Lumut in real time, shows system suitable for long distance use

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

than 1,500km, involving 113 tactical radio stations, highlighting the system’s long range capabilities and potential applications in military and emergency operations. The system, if deployed by the government, is said to be the first of its kind in the region. Designed for operations over long distances and in remote terrain, the HF XL system is intended for use in areas where conventional networks are weak or unavailable. Thales Malaysia and Brunei managing director Florian Riou, in a

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s defence sector was given a glimpse of next generation battlefield communications with a live demonstration of the high frequency extended link (HF XL) radio system by Advanced Defence Systems Sdn Bhd (ADS) and French defence firm Thales recently. The demonstration, held at the Defence Ministry football field on April 9, connected Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu and Lumut over more

‘EV transition in Malaysia gaining momentum’

Probe into baggage system failure ordered PUTRAJAYA: The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), as the country’s sole aviation regulator, has been directed to investigate the breakdown of the baggage handling system (BHS) at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 on Saturday. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the ministry views the incident seriously, noting that the disruption caused baggage delays of between two and four hours for a significant number of arriving passengers. He said the inconvenience caused is deeply regretted. “While the BHS system was restored the same evening, a technical restoration does not close the matter. Passengers who travel through our national gateway deserve a standard of service reliability that this incident has clearly failed to meet. “CAAM has been directed to investigate the matter and examine whether punitive action is warranted against Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) for this failure in service delivery,” he said in a statement yesterday. Loke said that he has instructed ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Jana Santhiran Muniayan to convene an emergency meeting with the relevant agencies first thing Monday morning. “The meeting will undertake a thorough review of the existing standard operating procedures governing breakdown management at our airports, with specific focus on response time, passenger communication and contingency protocols.” He said a national gateway cannot afford repeated lapses of this nature and MAHB, as the operator of KLIA, will be held accountable for this breakdown. Loke said beyond the immediate remedial steps, the incident points to something that must be addressed at a deeper level. “We cannot realise our aspiration of being among the world’s best airports without first inculcating a genuine culture of accountability and responsibility across the organisation. “The standard we (the aviation sector) set for ourselves must be reflected in how we respond, how we own our failures, and how we lead along the line of command. “If we are serious about our ambition to be a world-class airport, we must be equally serious about nurturing a culture of responsibility to match such an aspiration.” CAAM, in a separate statement, confirmed that operations at KLIA Terminal 1 have stabilised following a temporary disruption to the BHS over the weekend. “The system has since been restored and airport operations, including check-in and departures, have all returned to normal.”– Bernama

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s electric vehicle (EV) transition is gaining momentum, supported by expanding charging infrastructure, government incentives and growing consumer acceptance, according to industry players. The country’s EV ecosystem has improved significantly in recent years, particularly with the rapid rollout of nationwide charging networks involving multiple providers. BMW Group Malaysia said the charging landscape has developed strongly, reflecting broader industry progress rather than the efforts of any single player. Managing director Benjamin Nagel noted the growing presence of charge point operators such as Gentari, ChargEV, Yinson Greentech and JomCharge has helped improve accessibility for EV users. Through various partnerships across the industry, EV drivers now have access to more than 2,000 charging points nationwide, alongside over 100 charging facilities located at authorised dealerships and partner sites. Despite these developments, Nagel said challenges remain, particularly in raising consumer awareness and encouraging behavioural adaptation as EV adoption increases. He stressed the importance of educating users on responsible sharing of charging infrastructure to ensure efficiency and avoid congestion at popular locations. The expansion of charging networks is expected to continue beyond 2026, with reliability seen as a key factor in supporting wider adoption. For fleet operators, he said private charging remains essential for daily operations, while public infrastructure helps reduce range anxiety and improve operational flexibility. Corporate users are typically supported through a combination of on-site charging and access to public networks, making electrification more feasible for business use. Nagel also highlighted the role of government incentives and long-term policy clarity in supporting EV adoption, including tax exemptions and road tax benefits currently in place. “In many countries, government incentives have been the accelerant for rapid EV adoption and Malaysia is no exception,” he said. He added that consistent policy direction and leadership by example such as electrifying government fleets would help strengthen confidence among both businesses and

Nagel said although Malaysia’s EV ecosystem is expanding, challenges remain, especially in raising consumer awareness and educating users on responsible sharing of charging facilities to avoid congestion at popular locations. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

and gradual expansion of manufacturing capabilities locally. Efforts are also underway across the industry to extend charging infrastructure beyond urban centres to improve nationwide access. A key upcoming development is the introduction of the Neue Klasse platform, a next-generation EV architecture expected to debut in Malaysia later this year, featuring improvements in efficiency, range and digital capability, alongside faster charging technology and advanced onboard systems. Nagel said the overall success of Malaysia’s EV transition will depend on coordinated efforts between government, industry and consumers. “With the collective efforts of all stakeholders, we are confident these developments will support Malaysia’s shift towards a more electrified mobility future.”

consumers. Nagel said public-private collaboration remains essential in shaping a sustainable EV ecosystem, with industry players continuing to engage policymakers on long-term planning. He noted that in more mature EV markets, infrastructure development typically comes ahead of mass adoption and Malaysia is broadly following that trajectory, though momentum must be sustained. He also pointed to the importance of “technology openness”, allowing consumers to choose between fully electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids and efficient conventional cars depending on their needs. This flexibility, he said, supports a more gradual transition and helps broaden acceptance among different user groups. Looking ahead, Nagel said the focus should be on strengthening the wider ecosystem, including supplier development, skills training

MONDAY | APR 20, 2026

Inferno razes 1,000 stilt houses, leaves 9,000 homeless

Police probe brawl at nasi kandar eatery PETALING JAYA: Police are investigating a physical altercation that broke out at a nasi kandar restaurant in Bandar Rimbayu, Telok Panglima Garang, on April 15. Kuala Langat district police chief Supt Mohd Akmalrizal Radzi said a report regarding the incident was received at 2.07am. Initial investigations showed the conflict was triggered by a misunderstanding between two groups after an individual was reprimanded for smoking within the premises. “The altercation escalated into a quarrel, and members of both groups subsequently assaulted one another,” Akmalrizal said in a statement. He added that the case is being investigated under Section 160 of the Penal Code. A 52-second video of the brawl was also shared on social media. The video showed a commotion at the outdoor dining area, with several customers seen leaving their tables, while bystanders attempted to de-escalate the situation. Those with information are urged to contact the nearest police station or the Kuala Langat district police headquarters operations room. – BY FAIZ RUZMAN Penang cops seeking foreigner over murder case BUKIT MERTAJAM: Penang police are actively tracking down a Myanmar national who is the main suspect in the murder of a fellow countryman at Lorong IKS Juru 5, Simpang Ampat here on April 5. State police chief Datuk Azizee Ismail said the identity of the man, believed to be in his 30s, has been established, and he is believed to be still in the country as there is no record of him leaving. “The manhunt for the main suspect is ongoing while his three friends, who were detained a day after the incident, will be released on police bail. “The two men and one woman were remanded for seven days until April 13 before their remand was extended for another seven days to assist in the investigation,” he said when contacted by Bernama yesterday. He also urged the public with information on the main suspect to contact any police station. In the incident, a Myanmar factory worker was killed after he is believed to have been stabbed by an acquaintance of the same nationality at the roadside of Lorong IKS Juru 5. The suspect is said to have informed a friend about the incident, and the friend relayed the information to police. The 53-year-old victim was found lying face down by the roadside with stab wounds.

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

part of it to collapse along with the hoarding,” he said. He urged all parties involved in the project to extend full cooperation to the authorities and comply with all technical instructions issued. Alexander also said the ministry will continue to monitor developments from time to time and ensure that follow-up actions are taken in a transparent and responsible manner, with a focus on public safety. “I extend my sympathies to the affected residents and assure them that the ministry is committed to ensuring that recovery, stabilisation and preventive measures are implemented as quickly as possible so that such incidents do not recur,” he said. – Bernama Department chief Jimmy Lagung said firefighters arrived at the scene at 1.48am after travelling about 15km, but access constraints posed major challenges. “Firefighters faced difficulties reaching the scene due to narrow access roads, which hindered the movement of fire engines,” he said. “Strong winds and the close proximity of houses caused the fire to spread rapidly, while low tide conditions also made it difficult to obtain an open water source.” He said the fire razed about 1,000 non-permanent stilt houses across an estimated 10-acre area, leaving the settlement almost entirely destroyed. The blaze was brought under control at 8.43am, with operations concluding at noon. A total of 37 firefighters from the Sandakan and Kinabatangan fire stations were deployed, assisted by the Sandakan zone drone unit and Karamunting volunteer firefighters. Kampung Bahagia village chief Sharif Hashim Sharif Titing said nearly 90% of the settlement had been destroyed, marking the third major fire after similar incidents in 1994 and 2001. “Thankfully, there were no casualties. We hope there will be assistance for the affected residents from the relevant authorities, including the Social Welfare Department,” he said. George said the cause of the fire was under investigation. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the federal government was working closely with the Sabah administration to ensure immediate assistance and temporary shelter for those affected. “The priority now is the safety of the residents and immediate assistance on the ground,” he said, while expressing shock at the scale of the disaster. Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said state agencies had been mobilised to expedite relief efforts. “The priority is to safeguard their welfare and comfort, including through the provision of temporary shelters, basic necessities and food,” he said.

o Firefighting operations hindered by narrow access roads, densely packed structures and flames spreading fast due to strong winds

PETALING JAYA: An inferno tore through the Kampung Bahagia water village in Sandakan yesterday, destroying about 1,000 stilt houses and leaving more than 9,000 people homeless in what is said to be the worst fire recorded on Sabah’s eastern coastline. The blaze, which broke out at about 1.30am, spread quickly across densely packed wooden houses, fanned by strong winds. Narrow access routes further hampered firefighting efforts, delaying crew from reaching the core sections of the fire.

affected, involving 9,007 residents,” he said in a press conference yesterday. George said three temporary relief centres had been set up at Sandakan, Batu Sapi and SK Kampung Gas, while registration of victims was ongoing to facilitate aid distribution. No fatalities were reported at press time. Sandakan Fire and Rescue

Sandakan police chief ACP George Abd Rakman described the incident as the largest fire ever recorded in the district, with the area declared a disaster zone at 4am. “Police received a call at about 1.30am and we immediately moved to coordinate the emergency response at the district level. “This area has about 1,200 houses, and some 1,000 of them were

Kampung Bahagia residents affected by the fire moving their furniture and other household items to a safer place. – BERNAMAPIC

Conduct investigation into wall collapse: Minister KUALA LUMPUR: The Public Works Department (PWD) has been

completion of works under the Bukit Kiara Federal Park Administrative Zone Development Phase 1B at Jalan Abang Haji Openg collapsed following heavy rain. He said preliminary reports showed that heavy rain between 3.30pm and 5.30pm caused water overflow from the project site. Initial observations indicate that water capacity from the hillside caused an earth bund to rupture and flow into a silt trap. “The public drainage system downstream was found to be unable to effectively accommodate the flow, partly due to the presence of utility obstructions at certain sections, which led to water ponding, overflow onto the public road and exerted pressure on the existing retaining wall, causing

“The Works Ministry will not compromise on matters involving public safety,” he said in a Facebook post yesterday. He added that immediate action has been taken at the location, including clearing works at the incident site, removal of a hoarding along Jalan Abang Haji Openg, installation of concrete barriers with geotextile over a stretch of about 200m, as well as desilting works and repairs to the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan system at the construction site. Alexander said the measures were important to stabilise the situation and reduce subsequent risks. On Saturday, the retaining wall near the project site for the

instructed to carry out a detailed technical investigation to determine the cause of the flooding incident that led to the collapse of a retaining wall near Phase 1B at Jalan Abang Haji Openg in Taman Tun Dr Ismail (TTDI) on Saturday. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said PWD has also been directed to assess the structural integrity of the affected area and recommend additional mitigation measures without compromise. “Any weaknesses in terms of implementation, supervision, technical compliance or site management must be identified and addressed immediately.

MONDAY | APR 20, 2026

Misuse of Penang walkways rampant

Keng said walkways are meant for pedestrians and

o Despite enforcement, encroachment on pedestrian paths remains widespread, raising serious safety concerns, particularly for disabled

should not be used as extensions of business premises. – T .C. KHOR /THE SUN

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

He said shopfront walkways are meant for pedestrians and should not be used as extensions of business premises. He added that commercial convenience must not come at the expense of public safety. “In many cases, once the walkways are obstructed, they become too narrow and unusable. Wheelchairs can’t pass through, and it’s also unsafe for the visually impaired. “When walkways are blocked people are forced onto roads, which is very dangerous.” He said obstructions on walkways pose immediate risks not only to persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups but also to the general public, especially during bad weather. Keng said the problem persists partly due to continued patronage. “To some extent, customers are also contributing to this. If they continue to support these businesses, it indirectly encourages the behaviour.” Society of Disabled Persons Penang president Datuk Teh Lay Kuan said many walkways were

GEORGE TOWN: Fines meant to curb the obstruction of five-foot walkways in Penang are failing to deter offenders, with some businesses brazenly treating penalties as just another operating cost. Despite ongoing enforcement, encroachment on pedestrian walkways remains widespread, raising serious safety concerns for the public, particularly persons with disabilities. Penang Handicapped Welfare Association chairman Keng Kian Chai said fines have had limited impact as some operators continue to occupy five-foot walkways with little regard for regulations. He said in certain cases, business owners have normalised penalties as part of their expenses. “Some businesses continue using walkways and simply pay the fine when they get caught.” Keng stressed that enforcement must be more consistent, with stiffer penalties imposed on repeat offenders.

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already inadequate for wheelchair users even before obstructions were added. “The minimum width required for a wheelchair is three feet,” she said, adding that walkways must also have level surfaces and be free of holes. She proposed regular maintenance and inspections by local councils, with enforcement teams rotated every six months to improve oversight. Aliran president Anil Netto

engagement with business owners. “Public education should be carried out, showing how businesses can benefit from increased pedestrian traffic along their frontage.” He added that enforcement alone would not resolve the problem without proper planning and awareness. “The media could highlight examples from developed nations where safer walkways have led to more vibrant urban areas.”

a pedestrian masterplan are needed to address the issue. “There should be guidelines for all local governments on what they should do to promote walking and cycling, especially in urban areas. They could also propose by-laws to improve walkability.” Anil, a former Penang Transport Council member, said it is essential to have a holistic plan linking pedestrian routes to public transport, alongside comprehensive

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