26/04/2026

NATIONAL 4 theSun on Sunday APR 26, 2026

Theme park operators appeal for govt aid

Ű BY ANDREW SAGAYAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

and revoked the land alienation in 2010. “The developer then took legal action, and the case went to the Federal Court in 2017.” He also said both the Court of Appeal and Federal Court ruled in favour of the council, affirming that the local authority’s decision to reject development was correct due to the slope conditions. – Bernama ‘Energy crisis could help curb single-use plastics’ materials due to the global energy supply crisis are seen as a catalyst to end dependence on single-use plastic packaging, thereby accelerating the targets set under the Roadmap Towards Zero Single-Use Plastics 2018 - 2030. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Institute of Sustainable Environmental Research director Prof Dr Muhammad Zaly Shah Muhammad Hussein said cost pressures, or pocket pressure, have proven more effective in driving immediate behavioural change among consumers and industries compared with awareness campaigns, which take longer to yield results. He added that since plastics are derived from crude oil and natural gas, the surge in prices of key raw materials such as resin has made environment-friendly alternatives more competitive and relevant in the current market. “We have seen this with the 20 sen plastic bag charge. Within a short time, individuals began bringing their own bags, not because they suddenly became environmentally conscious, but because they felt the impact on their wallets. “The cost argument, which has long been the main barrier for industries to shift to bioplastics, is now weakening. This is a rare opportunity that depends on firm government action, not just market pressure.” The Roadmap Towards Zero Single-Use Plastics 2018 - 2030 serves as the country’s strategic guide to gradually reduce plastic pollution through various initiatives targeting items such as plastic bags, straws and polystyrene. Despite its clear policy intent, a gap remains between policy and implementation, posing a challenge for the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry. On industry transition, Muhammad Zaly said the use of recycled materials is no longer merely a “green” option, but also a risk management decision to safeguard business profit margins. – Bernama KUALA LUMPUR: Rising prices of petroleum-based raw

KUALA LUMPUR: As the family recreation sector is at risk of losing its competitive edge over regional peers, theme park operators are pleading for help from the government. Malaysian Association of Theme Parks and Family Attractions (Matfa) president Tan Sri Richard Koh said the association understands the government’s fiscal needs and challenges but the obstacles currently facing the industry players should not be overlooked. “The ongoing tensions in the Middle East have continued to drive up our operational costs. At the same time, consumers are tightening their belts, focusing only on essential items. As a result, our industry is experiencing a softer demand and increasing pressure on the margins. “On top of this, we also face new cost burdens under the Sales and Service Tax (SST) framework including the 6% tax on food and beverages and another 6% on in-park revenue and rentals.” However, he added that the issue was not all about taxation.

“It is also about how the industry can sustain its appeal, remain competitive and be on par with our regional peers. “I humbly request the government to amend the outdated Entertainment Duty Act 1953 as it places a heavy burden on the industry.” He also said the Act was written 70 years ago as a “sin tax” for gambling, bars and nightclubs. “Today, the same Act also applies to themeparks, children’s playlands, water Global tensions driving up costs, softening demand: Matfa president

“The hike from RM500 to RM6,390 represents a 1,178% jump. Such an increase would crush smaller operators and result in slow industry growth.” Koh on Friday said operators in Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia have the advantage during this challenging period with the backing of their respective governments. “They have moved ahead with the support from their governments. In Thailand and Singapore, there is no entertainment tax being imposed on theme parks as they’re considered family recreational places. “Even in Indonesia, the authorities have reviewed its system. They have one tax rate for the whole country, unlike here where there are different rates for each state.”

parks and swimming complexes. “Matfa is here to provide recreational activities and a place for family bonding.” Koh thanked the government for providing the RM1,000 tax relief for local travel, including entrance fees to attractions and domestic tour packages as part of Visit Malaysia 2026. However, he said industry players need stability, not a short-term solution. “If we want Visit Malaysia 2026 to succeed, the government’s policy must support tourism, not penalise it.” He added that Matfa has also formally written to Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming and Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari regarding the sharp increase in licensing fees for playland operators.

Hassle-free experience for Malaysian haj pilgrims MAKKAH: Malaysian haj pilgrims arriving in Makkah from Madinah have described their arrival process as smooth and reassuring, as they were able to head straight to their rooms without having to carry luggage or search for accommodation.

Nuri Syuhada said the arrangement was especially helpful after a long journey, allowing pilgrims to rest immediately without worrying about other matters. – BERNAMAPIC

For many, the long journey ended with a well-organised and hassle-free experience. “Upon arrival, we went straight to our room. “Our luggage was already placed in front of the door, which made things very easy,” said Nuri Syuhada Soleha Suhaimi, 21, when met at Maktab 63, Al-Tayseer Hotel on Friday. She added that the arrangement was especially helpful after a long journey, allowing pilgrims to rest immediately without worrying about other matters. A Bernama check found that the Pilgrims’ Fund Board had made early logistical preparations at the maktab , including organising luggage and assigning rooms based on groupings and pilgrims’ needs.

the alienation of government land to two companies, Citrasama Projek Sdn Bhd and Metroway Sdn Bhd, for low-cost housing. “Planning permission was rejected in 2003 by the Subang Jaya City Council, because 75% of the area was Class III and IV slopes exceeding 25 degrees, which are unsuitable for development. “Following this, the state government cancelled the project their worship. “We review the room allocation list early, especially for those travelling with family. “If it involves parents and children, we ensure they are placed on the same floor regardless of gender so they are able to stay connected and help one another.” – Bernama

the rooms was also orderly, with staff stationed at several points to assist pilgrims. Meanwhile, Maktab 63 assistant manager Muhammad Fauzi Muniran said all preparations were completed in advance to ensure a burden-free arrival process.

“At that time, Puchong was known as Kampung Pulas, and Malaysia was under British colonial rule, then called British Malaya.” The statement was issued following a meeting between Amirudin and representatives of residents from the Puchong area, who had sought clarification regarding the baseless allegations about the land’s status. arrangement, which placed family members close to one another, made it easier to manage daily matters while in the Holy Land. “Alhamdulillah , after the rooming list was released, I was grateful to be assigned a room with my three daughters. It makes things much easier.” Movement from the lobby to

Another pilgrim, Martdiyah Ismail, 57, said the room Selangor clarifies status of 168-acre Puchong plot “Our aim is to allow pilgrims to rest immediately and focus on

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residents’

SHAH ALAM: Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari clarified that a 168-acre plot of land in Permatang Kumbang, Puchong city centre, is not a permanent forest reserve as claimed by irresponsible parties. Amirudin said the land, located near the Ayer Hitam Forest Reserve in Kinrara, was degazetted in 1926, approximately 100 years ago.

associations Kinrara assemblyman Ng Sze Han attended the session to hear residents’ feedback following the spread of false information by irresponsible parties. Amirudin said his administration has never approved any development on the land. However, he added that in 1996, the state government approved and