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No. 9140 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

INDOMITABLE METTLE ... Global Sumud Flotilla activists holding an impromptu rally as they march towards Heraklion Airport on the island of Crete in Greece after their release. – REUTERSPIC

See report on — page 8

INSIDE Flotilla humanitarians leave Greece for Istanbul on Turkish flight amid allegations of physical attacks, ‘uncomfortable conditions’ and injuries sustained during detention. page 2 Malaysians freed

Reform system in addition to new maternity allowance, says NGO.

Underfunded govt hospitals under immense pressure: MMA

Classic timepieces holding steady against smartwatch onslaught.

page 3

page 4

page 6

NATIONAL 2 theSun on Sunday MAY 3, 2026

10 detained Malaysian flotilla activists released

Give support to older workers, says academic KUALA LUMPUR: The rising number of older Malaysians remaining in the workforce is highlighting gaps in retirement readiness, prompting renewed focus on the need to strengthen support systems in an ageing society. Across the country, more individuals aged 60 and above are staying economically active, with some choosing to remain engaged while many continue working due to financial consideration. This trend reflects a changing landscape where retirement is no longer a fixed endpoint but an increasingly uncertain phase shaped by both opportunity and constraint. Universiti Malaysia Kelantan deputy vice-chancellor (Academic and International) Prof Datuk Dr Nik Maheran Nik Muhammad said insufficient savings remain a key factor, particularly among those who spent their careers in informal sectors. “Most older Malaysians continue working because they need the income, not just because they want to stay active,” she said when contacted by Bernama. Malaysia is already transitioning into an ageing society, with those aged 60 and above expected to make up about 15% of the population by 2030, according to the Statistics Department. nurture and rebuild Umno’s strength based on its experience in managing crises and the loyalty of its members. Meanwhile, he also stressed the importance of strengthening party unity as the main basis of strength, and reminded that division would only weaken Umno’s role in the country’s political arena. “A divided party will be easily manipulated and used by external political interests. It will lead the party into an arena that will eventually, bit by bit, marginalise and diminish Umno’s role. “Therefore, in a moment as important as now, there should be no elements who want to pit us against each other,” he said. Commenting on current challenges, Mohamad said Umno needed to address global and digital changes, including producing a professional generation and ensuring the party remained relevant among the younger generation. He also said Umno also needed to manage the reality of a diverse society well and provide future leadership that is credible and of high calibre, besides addressing challenges strategically and openly to prevent the party from being marginalised in the long term. – Bernama

He said changes in voter behaviour, current issues and the political environment demand a more flexible approach that is based on current reality. “Today’s general election is no longer static, the landscape is changing, voters are changing, issues are changing. So our strategy must also change. “Umno’s election strategy is not determined today. Our strategy is determined based on the reality of the moment, when the time comes,” he said in his opening speech at Umno’s 80th Anniversary Convention at Kuala Lumpur World Trade Centre here yesterday. Also present were Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, Wanita chief Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad, Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh and Puteri chief Datuk Nurul Amal Mohd Fauzi. Mohamad said in modern politics, flexibility is an important KUALA Ten Malaysian delegates from the Sumud Nusantara Command Centre (SNCC), who were detained in international waters near the Greek island of Crete on Thursday, have been released at the port of Lerapetra in Crete. SNCC director-general Datuk Dr Sani Araby Abdul Alim Araby said the 10 were among 175 humanitarian activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) transported to Heraklion Airport in buses provided by the Greek authorities. He also noted that SNCC has been informed that the Turkish government has provided a 160-seat aircraft to repatriate 20 of its own citizens, while also offering seats to any GSF activists who wish to join the flight. LUMPUR: Group among 175 expected to take flight from Greece to Istanbul amid claims of abuse, says SNCC

Israel mission participants in international waters. He said the government viewed the incident with serious concern, describing Israel’s action as a breach of humanitarian principles and international law. Anwar said efforts had been stepped up on the diplomatic front, with the Foreign Ministry and friendly nations being contacted to find an immediate solution. “We are doing our best. I have already contacted the Foreign Ministry and we are contacting friendly countries. Whichever ones I can contact, I will contact, InsyaAllah ,” he said. The 10 Malaysians detained on Thursday are Zainal Rashid Ahmad onboard Arkham III ; Osman Zolkifli and Dr Jihan Alya Mohd Nordin ( Eros 1 ); Hazwan Hazim Dermawan, Mohd Hanafi Mohd Salim, Ahmad Musa Al Nuwayri Kamaruzaman and Norhelmi Ab Ghani ( Bianca BCN ), Mohd Redzal Amzah ( Freia ); detained

He further noted that the decision on whether the 10 Malaysian activists will continue their mission or return home depends on their health status and the current consensus between SNCC and GSF. Meanwhile, he said SNCC urges Malaysians and the international community to keep up the pressure and demand the release of Thiago and Saif. He also called on Malaysians to continue raising their voices in support of a free Gaza and Palestine, while urging the Muslims to perform special prayers ( solat hajat and Qunut Nazilah ), and to step up the dissemination of verified information and advocacy efforts both at home and abroad. The GSF 2.0 mission is an international maritime coalition and global mobilisation movement committed to breaking the blockade on Gaza, in response to the worsening humanitarian crisis in the region. On Friday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the safety of Malaysians taking part in the GSF 2.0 is the government’s top priority, after

“The flight is expected to depart from Heraklion Airport at 10.15pm and arrive at Istanbul International Airport at 11.45pm, both in Malaysian time,” he told a press conference here on Friday night. He confirmed that the 10 released Malaysian activists have accepted the offer and will fly to Istanbul. Sani Araby said that SNCC received reports that activists faced provocation and physical attacks during their detention. They were also forced into uncomfortable conditions, leading to violent incidents that resulted in injuries to several participants. He added that two members of GSF’s main steering committee, Saif Abukeshek and Thiago Avila, remain in Israeli custody, believed to be an attempt to threaten and cripple the mission. Sani Araby said SNCC has been in contact with the Foreign Ministry to coordinate travel arrangements for the Malaysian activists from Greece to Istanbul, Bernama reported. “Three SNCC representatives are already in Istanbul for management and assessment,” he said.

See also page 8

Muhamad Muhsin Zaidi ( Marea ) and Mohd Shamsir Mohd Isa ( Esplai ).

Umno needs to adopt new strategy for GE16 KUALA LUMPUR: Umno needs to adopt a new strategy to face the increasingly dynamic political landscape ahead of the Malacca and Johor state elections and the 16th general election (GE16), said Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.

Umno members showing their support at the convention. – BERNAMAPIC

challenging political landscape. According to him, Umno could not continue to rely on historical nostalgia, but instead needed to offer confidence in the future through clear and relevant ideas to the people. Mohamad said the party’s main focus at the moment is to restore,

poster war. It is a data war. Candidates must have integrity, be able to win, and are close to the people,” he said. He also stressed that Umno needed to chart a new direction that was bolder and focused on the future to ensure the party’s survival in an increasingly

weapon to restore Umno’s strength as the dominant party, including by assessing the people’s sentiments, the strength of the opponent and adjusting the approach to face the election. “Today’s election is not just a talk. It is an analysis. “Today’s election is not just a

NATIONAL 3 theSun on Sunday MAY 3, 2026

‘Allowance move not enough to meet needs’

KUALA LUMPUR: The introduction of the post-maternity leave allowance is expected to increase women’s participation in the active labour market, thereby aligning Malaysia with the global standards outlined by the International Labour Organisation (ILO). The Social Security Organisation (Socso) in a statement yesterday said the benefit will use a liability-sharing approach by absorbing part of the cost of living burden for employees during the additional leave without directly impacting the employer’s operations. According to Socso, the approach has been implemented in developed countries such as Spain, Portugal, France and China, which utilise social security funds to ensure the continuity of industry without neglecting the welfare of women after childbirth. “The implementation of this is not only critical in preserving the health of pregnant women but also serves as a buffer against the tendency of women to leave their careers after childbirth due to the rising cost of living for families. “Socso is determined to make the initiative a cornerstone for a more inclusive, fair, and progressive Malaysian labour market,” it said. The latest benefit will be implemented through amendments to the Employment Insurance System Act 2017 (Act 800). Meanwhile, Socso said the implementation of the Socso Traveller Scheme through the Self-Employment Social Security Protection Act 2017 (Act 789) plays a role in filling the gaps in social protection involving cross-border workers. “This measure is expected to protect around 1.6 million individuals, including nearly 480,000 workers who commute daily through the Johor Causeway, to ensure they receive appropriate protection from previously unmanageable risks. “This is not just an extension of the scheme, but rather a manifestation of support for the sacrifices of hundreds of thousands of workers who face high risks for their survival,” the statement said. – Bernama participation in labour market’ ‘Initiative boosts women leave allowance to further empower women in the economy. Mohammad Rizan emphasised that the nation’s economic strength lies in the quality of the relationship between employers and employees. “Employers need to hold employees in high regard. Employees are not merely labour, but strategic assets that contribute to the growth of both the organisation and the nation.” – Bernama

Working mums leave employment due to lack of support systems such as childcare availability and workplace flexibility: NGO

reforms rather than a standalone solution. He also said childcare remains the biggest challenge, citing issues of cost, availability and trust in care facilities as key factors driving women’s exit from the labour market. “Many mothers simply don’t have a reliable childcare option, or it consumes too much of their income to make working worthwhile,” he said. Zulikhwan also pointed to rigid workplace structures and the “second shift” burden, where women continue to shoulder the bulk of unpaid domestic responsibilities even when employed. “Our finding also shows that women spend five times more doing unpaid domestic work than men. “This policy addresses financial pressure in a very narrow window, but it does not directly tackle these structural factors. “While it helps at the margin, it doesn’t go to the root of why women disengage from the workforce.” On the proposed allowance, secure workers’ futures. “There have been many accident cases involving cross-border workers, and some of them do not have insurance coverage, either personally or through their employers,” he told Bernama. For Luqman Khafa, 27, the government initiative would help ease workers’ burden in the event of misfortune. “For someone who commutes by motorcycle, protection initiatives like this are a necessity. In addition, the welfare and fatigue of commuting workers should be given due attention,” he said, and aligned policies. He stressed that Workers’ Day should not be merely symbolic, but a moment for stakeholders to assess progress and recalibrate approaches to secure the country’s economic future. Amid rising business costs and rapid digital transformation, Syed Hussain said sustainable businesses and quality jobs must go hand in hand, adding that human capital remains key to resilience. To tackle issues such as

SINGAPORE: Malaysia–Singapore cross-border workers have welcomed the government’s initiative to amend the Self Employment Social Security Act 2017 to extend protection under Social Security Organisation (Socso) to those working abroad. A logistics assistant at a service company in Singapore, Muhammad Amyrul Syahwan Abdullah, 23, described the move as timely, particularly amid current labour market uncertainties. Amyrul, who commutes 49km daily by public transport to his workplace in Singapore, said Socso protection would help PETALING The government’s introduction of a 30-day post-maternity leave allowance has been welcomed as a supportive measure for working mothers, but must be supported by wider reforms to address barriers to women’s workforce participation, said Women of Will chief operating officer Zulikhwan Ayub. He said the initiative helps ease immediate financial pressure faced by working mothers after maternity leave, but Zulikhwan emphasised that women do not leave employment due to a one-month income gap alone. “Women don’t leave the workforce because of a single month’s financial gap. “They leave because the system around them, such as childcare, workplace flexibility, and support structures, doesn’t hold,” he added. Zulikhwan said while the allowance may serve as a “bridge”, it should be seen only as an entry point to broader Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com JAYA:

Zulikhwan said while the allowance may serve as a ‘bridge’, it should be seen only as an entry point to broader reforms rather than a standalone solution. – AI GENERATED IMAGE BY SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN/THESUN

employment. “It’s about whether returning to work is sustainable. If childcare is unreliable, working hours are inflexible, or the workplace is not supportive, financial incentives alone will not keep women in the workforce,” he said. Zulikhwan suggested expanding eligibility coverage, linking the allowance with return-to-work support, and integrating childcare assistance such as subsidies or access to registered providers. He also called for simpler application processes to ensure accessibility for lower-income groups. National Labour Day celebration in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur on Friday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government would amend the Self Employment Social Security Act 2017 to cover Malaysians working abroad, beginning with Malaysia– Singapore cross-border workers. The initiative is expected to benefit more than 480,000 workers who earn a living commuting across the Johor Causeway. Anwar said, on average, one Malaysian life is lost every week, or 54 deaths annually, among this group of cross-border workers. Meanwhile, the National Skilled Workers Organisation (Belia Mahir), in a separate statement, fully supports the government’s initiatives to empower the welfare and protection of workers in conjunction with the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration. Its president Mohammad Rizan Hassan said Belia Mahir welcomes the proposal to extend Social Security Organisation (Socso) protection to Malaysian citizens abroad, as well as the introduction of a post-maternity

Zulikhwan said its impact may be limited as it does not directly address these structural barriers. He raised concerns over implementation gaps, particularly for women in informal, gig-based and contract employment. “If eligibility is tied strictly to formal contributions, we may end up supporting those who are already relatively more secure, while missing those who are most vulnerable,” he said, adding that this could widen existing inequalities. He stressed that financial support alone is not the deciding factor for most women when choosing whether to remain in adding that he travels 35km daily by motorcycle from his home in Larkin, Johor, to his workplace in Singapore. Meanwhile, Muhd Syafiq, 38, a Malaysian working in the pharmaceutical sector in Singapore, expressed hope that awareness among cross-border workers regarding risks and available protection would be improved. “Awareness levels differ from person to person; some only become aware after experiencing an accident in Singapore, where treatment costs are high,” he said. In conjunction with the 2026

M’sia–S’pore cross-border workers welcome Socso cover

Call for strategic recalibration of tripartism to boost progress KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) has urged a shift in tripartism to a more strategic, high-trust skills mismatches, graduate employability and the impact of artificial intelligence, MEF

proposed a next-phase tripartite framework centred on an evidence-based approach with stronger industry engagement at the sector level. The federation also called for faster policy implementation and balanced regulations that protect workers, while emphasising that social justice and economic competitiveness must progress together.

partnership that can help Malaysia navigate economic changes, demographic shifts and growing global competition. Its president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman said cooperation between employers, employees, trade unions and the government must go beyond consultation, with stronger shared accountability

NATIONAL 4 theSun on Sunday MAY 3, 2026

MMA stands with hospital amid congestion complaints

Ű BY ANDREW SAGAYAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

KUALA The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has backed Kuala Lumpur Hospital’s (KLH) response to complaints over congestion at its Ophthalmology Specialist Clinic. MMA president Datuk Dr Thirunavukarasu Rajoo (pic) said the situation reflects a healthcare system operating beyond safe capacity, with workforce shortages and underinvestment requiring urgent attention. “MMA supports KLH for its transparent and timely response to public concerns on the congestion at its Ophthalmology Specialist Clinic. “We stand firmly with KLH and all public healthcare workers who continue to serve under immense and sustained pressure. “We must confront an uncomfortable national truth, we have normalised what should never be acceptable. “Our public hospitals are underfunded. Our wards and clinics are understaffed. Our healthcare workers are overextended, yet expectations for world-class outcomes remain unchanged. This is not resilience, this is systemic strain, and it is no LUMPUR:

decisions on funding and workforce planning are made. “If underinvestment and

through staff rotation during lunch hours, optimising appointment scheduling and improving patient flow. However, while

similar conditions at specialist clinics nationwide. KLH director Datuk Dr Harikrishna K.R. Nair said the Ophthalmology Specialist Clinic is a major referral centre handling complex eye cases. “There are 480 patient appointments and an average of 70 new referrals daily. To manage patient flow, we have implemented a staggered appointment system. “If patients arrive according to their designated slots, the average waiting time after registration is 30 to 45 minutes before undergoing further procedures such as examinations and pupil dilation,” he said. Harikrishna added that total treatment time may take between four and six hours, depending on clinical needs. He added that measures to ease congestion include continuous clinic operations

Staff working under pressure as demand outpaces capacity, says association longer sustainable. “The viral image is not an anomaly. Without decisive intervention, such situations will become the norm, not the exception,” he said in a statement yesterday. On Thursday, KLH responded to a social media post that was widely shared a day earlier, showing about 200 people, many of them senior citizens, crowding the clinic hallway. The post received more than 2,000 likes and over 100 comments, with many expressing concern over overcrowding at public healthcare facilities and claiming

workforce shortage persist, we must be prepared to face the consequences. Healthcare workers are already experiencing burnout, moral injury and psychological distress. When the system fails, it is the rakyat who will bear the greatest cost. “We must move

KLH noted delays may occur when patients do not follow appointment times, it did not directly address concerns raised online over staffing levels or long-term strain on healthcare workers. Meanwhile,

beyond acknowledgement to action. What is required now is structural commitment — increased funding, expanded workforce capacity and fair remuneration. Delay will only deepen the crisis. “The time for incremental adjustments has passed. What we need now is decisive reform,” he said.

Thirunavukarasu urged the public, particularly those reliant on government healthcare, to speak up. “This is no longer just a healthcare issue. It is a national priority that demands attention from the federal government, particularly the Finance Ministry and the Public Service Department, where key

‘Harmless play’ by children in lifts poses real risks

He said all lifts used by the public must comply with safety regulations, undergo monthly maintenance, quarterly inspections and periodic certification renewals. “Whether in apartments, offices or shopping centres, if it is for public use, it must comply with safety requirements and be inspected regularly,” he said. Despite strict regulations, Wong stressed that user behaviour remains a critical factor in safety, as overcrowding, forcing doors and playful movement inside the cabin could interfere with built-in safety systems. He added that high-rise buildings are equipped with additional safety features, including designated fire lifts for use by firefighters under strict protocols. Wong said modern lifts are fitted with multiple safety mechanisms designed to prevent serious incidents. As high-rise developments continue to grow in Malaysia, he said lift safety remains a shared responsibility among engineers, authorities, building owners and users, including children who may not fully understand the risks. On career opportunities, Wong said those interested in lift maintenance engineering could begin with Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia or vocational qualifications before progressing through competency certification levels, including SKM and the Lift Competent Person course, depending on experience and examinations.

KUALA LUMPUR: What may seem like harmless fun when children jump or play inside a lift can quickly turn into an emergency, a lift industry expert has warned. Malaysian Lift and Escalator Association secretary Wong Weng Sum said such behaviour could disrupt normal lift operations, potentially causing it to stop abruptly, lock or break down. “If children are moving around or jumping while the lift is in operation, it could cause abnormal movement and disrupt its normal function. “It may trigger entrapment, and if that happens, authorised technical personnel will have to carry out a rescue,” he told Bernama when met at the Hari Pekerja 2026 Carnival at Unifi Arena. He also advised that children under 12 should not be left alone in a lift as they may not be tall enough to reach the control buttons, particularly the alarm bell, during emergencies. “If they cannot reach the alarm button, how will they call for help? Nowadays, some lifts are equipped with CCTV and audio systems, so operators can communicate with them. But what if a lift does not have CCTV? The children will be at risk.” Meanwhile, Wong said lifts and escalators are now essential in urban living, with an estimated 106,000 to 110,000 units in operation nationwide, all regulated by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health.

INDUSTRY SHOWCASE ... Visitors gathering at the Cendana Auto Sdn Bhd exhibition booth during the Bumiputera Education Congress, held in conjunction with Umno’s 80th anniversary celebration at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur yesterday. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN Nightclub ordered to shut over licence breaches

the explanation is deemed unsatisfactory, the business and advertisement licences will be revoked based on the offences committed,” he said. Earlier, the issue was widely shared online following public complaints over the nightclub operations, including allegations that it remained open until the early hours and was located next to a tahfiz learning centre, a female tahfiz hostel and an elderly care centre. – Bernama

liquor without a licence, displaying advertisements without a permit and placing additional tables and chairs without approval. “A further inspection on April 29 also found unauthorised structures at the premises,” he said when contacted yesterday. He added that the council has instructed the owner to submit a show-cause letter within seven days. “If the owner fails to respond within the stipulated period or

KEPALA BATAS: The Seberang Perai City Council has ordered a business operating as a nightclub in Bandar Setia Utara Fontaines, Bertam, to close for failing to comply with licensing regulations. Mayor Datuk Baderul Amin Abdul Hamid said the action followed monitoring and inspections conducted on April 23 and 28. “Inspections found the business failed to comply with several requirements, including selling

NATIONAL 5 theSun on Sunday MAY 3, 2026

Four remanded over teen found with 61 stab wounds

PUTRAJAYA: have confirmed another fatal incident involving a foreigner who fell at the KL International Airport Terminal 2 on Friday night. District police chief ACP M. Ravi said the incident occurred at about 9.10pm, when a 30-year-old Algerian man is believed to have fallen from the outer section of a balcony at the terminal. He said a medical team provided emergency treatment at the scene before the victim was taken to the Cyberjaya Hospital. “However, at about 2.55am, the hospital confirmed that the man had died,” he said in a statement. The case has been classified as a sudden death report (SDR), with the cause still under investigation. Earlier, Ravi confirmed that a Chinese woman died after falling from Level 3 of KLIA T2 in an incident that was widely shared online. He said the incident occurred at about 2.20pm, and a medical team at the scene provided emergency care before the 27-year-old was pronounced dead at 5.09pm at the Putrajaya Hospital. Investigations found that the woman was scheduled to board a flight back to China. The case has also been classified as an SDR and remains under investigation. Those with information are urged to contact the district police headquarters at 03-8776 8222. – Bernama Girl swept away in drain while chasing ball KAJANG: A nine-year-old girl feared drowned after falling into a drain and being swept away by strong currents in Bandar Mahkota Cheras was known to frequently play in the area where the incident occurred. Her mother Nordina Zulkarnain, 34, said the open space near their apartment block was a popular play area for children, including her daughter Nur Qaseh Deandra Mohd Qayyum. “She was playing there yesterday because it was a public holiday, spending time with her friends from the apartment block. “After it happened, her brother rushed home and informed my husband and me.” Nordina said her husband immediately contacted emergency services for assistance from the Fire and Rescue Department. According to media reports, the girl slipped and fell into the drain while chasing a ball before being swept away by strong currents. Firefighters received the emergency call at 7.08pm regarding an incident at the Sri Hijau Condominium complex. – Bernama Second fatal fall reported at KLIA Terminal 2 Police

down to the legs. “Most of the injuries were concentrated on the right side of the body. Preliminary investigations indicate the victim may have been killed at another location before the body was dumped in the area.” He added that the crime scene was located in a dark padi field with no street lighting, about 47m from the nearest residence. The victim was found wearing a necklace bearing the inscription “SYAA”, along with a bracelet on the left wrist and a ring on the middle finger of the right hand. She was clad in a black long sleeved top and black trousers. Several other items were also found at the scene, including a pair of glasses and a light purple shawl. Anyone with information on the incident is urged to contact investigating officer ASP Ganesan at 012-569 1204.

in a statement. During the operation, police also seized a knife believed to have been used in the incident, along with two cars, two mobile phones, a set of clothing and a pair of slippers, Bernama reported. “The case is being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder. If convicted, offenders face the death penalty or 30 to 40 years’ imprisonment and at least 12 strokes of the cane.” On the discovery of the victim’s body, Mohd Yusoff said police received information at 12.35am on Friday. The victim was confirmed dead at the scene and the body was later sent to the Forensic Department at the Raja Perempuan Zainab II Hospital for further examination. “Initial examination by the police forensic team found a total of 61 stab wounds on the victim’s body, from the face

Police seize knife, vehicles as probe intensifies, with victim believed killed elsewhere before body was dumped

LUMUT: Displayed to the public for the first time, the Royal Malaysian Navy littoral combat ship (LCS) emerged as the star attraction of the 2026 Fleet Open Day, held in conjunction with the Navy’s 92nd anniversary. For years, the vessels were only seen on television and social media. However, a Bernama survey found that viewing them up close turned curiosity into visible excitement and a sense of quiet pride among visitors. One visitor, Mohamad Asraf Ishak, 38, from Kulim in Kedah, described the open day as a meaningful experience, particularly for young people and families to better understand the role of the Navy in safeguarding national waters. “For the longest time, we only saw warships, helicopters and Navy assets on TV or social media. Today, I finally got to see for myself the actual size of the ships, the defence equipment and how Navy personnel carry out their duties. “What captured my attention most was the chance to see the LCS, something we can all be proud of. I believe the public should be given more opportunities like this, so we can truly appreciate the sacrifices of our Armed Forces and understand why national defence matters so much,” he said. Earlier, the Raja Muda of Perak Raja Jaafar Raja Muda Musa graced the launch of the Lumut Navy City Parade at Dataran Lumut, setting the tone for a KOTA BHARU: Two men have been remanded for seven days, while two senior citizens, including a woman, have been remanded for three days to assist in the investigation into the murder of a 19-year-old college student found with 61 stab wounds near a padi field in Kampung Simah, Ketereh. The remand orders for the two 19-year-old men, a 66-year old man and a 60-year-old woman were issued by Magistrate Amirul Asyraf Abdul Rasid at the Magistrate’s Court yesterday to enable investigations under Section 302 of the Penal Code. Earlier, all suspects arrived at the court at 8.40am wearing lockup attire, handcuffed and

escorted by police personnel. Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat said a team from the contingent police headquarters Criminal Investigation Department, with assistance from Kota Bharu district police, carried out raids from 4.40pm on Friday until 2.30am yesterday. He said the operation targeted two separate locations, Taman Murni on Jalan Abdul Kadir Adabi and Kampung Belukar Luas in Ketereh. “The raid resulted in the arrest of three men aged between 19 and 66 and a 60-year-old woman. “All those arrested had no criminal records and tested negative for drugs,” he said

Littoral combat ship steals show at Navy Open Day

Visitors taking a wefie of a Navy vessel during the event. – BERNAMAPIC

in the military. When I heard about the Fleet Open Day, I started planning the trip with my friends. I was thrilled to board and see the ships for myself. “What stood out most was the chance to see the LCS. It has its own appeal, along with the other maritime assets on display. We were impressed by the professionalism of Navy personnel and the progress in modernising our defence assets.” Nurdini said such events not only provide public engagement and education but also help bring the people closer to the security forces. – Bernama

these assets in the news. But today, I saw their sophistication for myself. “Although I could only take photos with KD Maharaja Lela in the background, I still felt proud seeing the other ships on display,” she said. She added that the event helps spark interest among youths in national defence and security, while providing exposure to career opportunities in the military. Another visitor, Nurdini Munirah Ahmad Munif, 30, from Sabak Bernam, said the trip was well worth the journey. “I’ve always had a deep interest

weekend of celebrations. The event, which runs until today, is centred at the Lumut Navy Base jetty, offering visitors a rare opportunity to view up close a range of naval assets and gain deeper insight into its capabilities and operations. For 23-year-old civil servant Norsuhaila Mohd Yunus, the experience was both exciting and eye-opening. “As a young person, I feel events such as this are important. They open our eyes to what the Navy actually does and why it matters. “Before this, I only heard about

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NATIONAL 6 theSun on Sunday MAY 3, 2026

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Classic timepieces deeply rooted in market

Artist creates unique work with fertiliser KUALA LUMPUR: At first glance, the artwork displayed at the Alir Exhibition at Galeri Sareng in Menara Chan appears simple, resembling thick strokes of acrylic paint. However, beneath its textured black tones lies a bold experiment – the use of organic fertiliser as the primary medium. Its creator Muhamat Ammar Idris, 27, said fertiliser carries symbolic value, representing growth, much like his own evolving journey in the art world, shaped by continuous learning and diverse experiences. “My artwork titled ‘Atas Dasar’ was produced using a combination of approximately 20kg of fertiliser, polyvinyl acetate (PVA) glue and acrylic,” he said when met at the culmination of the third cycle of the Iltizam Arts Residency programme recently. The Kedah-born artist said his choice of organic fertiliser was influenced by his four-month residency in Karak, Pahang, where he had the opportunity to interact with farmers and better understand the material. “I would mould the fertiliser together with PVA glue, then pour it onto the canvas surface to dry under the sun. Using a fan slows the process and makes the structure more fragile, so it really depends on sunlight. If it rains, the process is disrupted.” Once dried, Ammar applies collage techniques – pulling, tearing and rearranging the formed layers to achieve the desired surface texture. On his choice of colours, he said blue tones were selected to evoke emotional duality, such as calmness or melancholy, while black was retained to reflect the natural properties of the material and create compositional balance. The meticulously crafted artwork is priced at RM12,000. The Alir Exhibition also features 21 other works by three emerging Bumiputera artists, Aliff Danial, Khairanee Iro and Mairul Malek. It is open to the public free of charge, and runs until May 16. – Bernama

PETALING JAYA: While smartphones and smartwatches may be the go-to devices to tell time, traditional timepieces are not ready to clock out just yet, said Ice-Watch founder Jean-Pierre Lutgen. He observed that consumers are increasingly switching between digital and analogue watches, depending on lifestyle and occasion. In an exclusive interview with theSun , Lutgen said the watch market is ultimately about balance, emphasising that while consumers today own smartwatches, there are still moments when they return to traditional timepieces. “When smartwatches were first introduced, people adopted them and kept using them. But over time, some found them repetitive or less exciting, and they return to something more elegant,” he said. He added that a recent survey in France on watch-wearing behaviour showed clear shifts depending on lifestyle, with smartwatches preferred for sports and data tracking, while traditional watches are chosen for formal occasions, underscoring the need for both segments to coexist. However, Lutgen acknowledged that traditional watches, particularly affordable ones, have faced challenges, but stressed that this is not solely due to the rise of smartwatches. “It’s also because there hasn’t been enough innovation. The industry must Seemingly stiff competition from digital devices not likely to result in total shift Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

focus on revitalising the segment through fresh ideas. “We need to introduce new collections, new colours, new designs to give people a reason to buy again. The challenge is to bring fresh ideas into the traditional watch segment at an affordable price.” Lutgen also said many young people today no longer wear watches at all, adding that maintaining a connection with this group is important for the long term health of the industry. “There was a natural progression, a young person might start with an affordable watch and later move on to a luxury one. If that first step disappears, it affects the entire industry.” He described watches as a “magic product” that carries identity and emotional value beyond telling time, highlighting that traditional watches in particular create a stronger emotional attachment than smartwatches, which may excite users but do not leave the same lasting sentiment. “People remember their first watch. I remember mine, choosing it with my grandmother. It wasn’t expensive, but the moment stays with me forever.” Lutgen said the future of the watch industry is challenging, and only strong brands, particularly dedicated watch brands, are likely to survive. He outlined three categories in the affordable watch segment – dedicated watch brands, licensed fashion brands and social media-driven brands. “The third faces the most pressure, while dedicated watch brands remain the most stable as they are built solely around watchmaking. That distinction is critical.” Lutgen revealed that one of the biggest challenges for the brand is the gradual disappearance of colour in Europe, where consumer choices are increasingly dominated by neutral tones such as black, white and grey.

Lutgen said the future of the watch industry is challenging, and only strong brands are likely to survive. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN However, he said Malaysia stands in contrast with a stronger presence of colour in everyday fashion, which aligns well with the Ice-Watch brand identity and market performance. “The challenge lies not only in presenting colour through advertising, but also in encouraging consumers to wear it in real life. Colour represents life and remains central to the brand’s philosophy.” However, Lutgen said while Ice-Watch remains confident in its traditional watches, the brand is also moving into the smartwatch segment with designs that retain a classic look. “With certain models, we decided to maintain the look of a traditional watch, although it is a smartwatch, allowing users to wear them even for formal occasions, while still offering features like body tracking and messaging.” He added that the company has also developed smartwatches for children with location tracking, stressing that the focus is on standing out in design and function while keeping prices accessible.

Education retains its importance in the Malaysian landscape for parents, students and stakeholders. The changes are fast paced with new developments in new fields of study such as cybersecurity, data protection, augmented and virtual reality, machine learning in education, digital education and artificial Intelligence. Leading the way are universities, who are invited to showcase their latest programmes, curriculum and content in our Education Focus for 2026.

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theSun on Sunday MAY 3, 2026

WORLD 7

Japan pledges more efforts to keep Asia free

that they have nothing to do with Huione’s alleged crimes and cannot access their assets deposited with the firm, calling on the NBC to intervene. The NBC has said the Huione platforms’ business licences have been revoked and Huione Pay creditors should go to the courts, while H-Pay creditors can make claims with a liquidator. – AFP YANGON: Aung San Suu Kyi’s lawyers plan to meet the former leader today after she was transferred to house arrest in the capital. Suu Kyi has been detained since the military ousted her civilian government in a coup in February 2021. “Aung San Suu Kyi is still in Naypyidaw,” a member of her legal team said. On Thursday, state media reported she would be moved to house arrest. Suu Kyi’s legal team planned to meet the 80-year-old to discuss her position and bring her supplies, such as food and medicine. Sending supplies every Sunday was the regular practice of her legal team, the representative said, and after they were prevented from seeing Suu Kyi, the supplies were dropped off at a police station to be passed on. “Since Suu Kyi had already been transferred to house arrest, it means that while going to deliver her provisions as usual, we would be able to meet her as a team to discuss the next steps,” the legal team member said. The US State Department called for Suu Kyi’s immediate and unconditional release. “Ensure Suu Kyi has proper access to medical care given continued reports of her poor health,” its spokesperson said. A UN spokesperson said Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had “taken note” of Suu Kyi’s transfer and “appeals for the swift and unconditional release of all those arbitrarily detained as a fundamental step towards conditions conducive to a credible political process.” After a marathon run of secret trials following the coup, Suu Kyi was sentenced to 33 years after she was convicted of charges ranging from corruption and inciting election fraud to violating state secrecy rules. The sentence was later reduced to 27 years, and then by a sixth in a Myanmar New Year amnesty on April 17 that freed her ally and co-defendant Win Myint, the former president. On Thursday, her sentence was reduced by a further one-sixth as part of a wider amnesty of prisoners in Myanmar’s jails, before the move to house arrest was announced. – Reuters Suu Kyi to meet her lawyers today

PM calls for ‘resilience’ among Asian nations

PHNOM PENH: A Cambodian court charged two men on Friday for leading protests demanding the unfreezing of accounts with a financial services firm linked to cyberscams. Protesters said earlier this week that their accounts with US-sanctioned Huione Group’s digital payments platform H-Pay, previously Huione Pay, had been The appeals court decision on Thursday was another blow to an opposition decimated by the ruling party’s crackdown. Kem Sokha, 72, co-founder of the defunct Cambodia National Rescue Party, has been held under house arrest since he was found guilty of treason in March 2023. He was accused of conspiring with a foreign power to topple then-premier Hun Sen. The United States has previously said his conviction was based on “fabricated conspiracy theories”. HANOI: Japan’s prime minister vowed yesterday to do more to ensure a “free and open Indo Pacific”, using a speech in communist Vietnam to tout a regional strategy that has long rankled neighbouring China. “I am renewing my determination to fulfil Japan’s responsibilities and to play an even more proactive role than ever before in building an international order based on freedom, openness, diversity, inclusiveness and the rule of law,” Sanae Takaichi said in an address at Hanoi university. She called for Asian countries to cultivate “resilience” and the ability to “determine their own future”. Japan and Vietnam share common concerns about China’s territorial claims in the East and South China seas, and both have sought to hedge against US-driven trade disruptions by broadening economic and security ties. But Hanoi aims to stay on good terms with all global powers through its traditional “bamboo diplomacy” approach,

inaccessible since December. The US government last year accused Huione, which owned several companies offering e-commerce, payment and cryptocurrency exchange services, of laundering funds for criminal groups. Huione’s former chairman, Li Xiong, was extradited to China on April 1. “The United States is troubled by the decision to uphold activist and opposition leader Kem Sokha’s conviction of treason,” the State Department said in a statement. “Claims of US involvement are patently false and irresponsible.” Activists and Western countries have condemned mass trials in Cambodia involving more than 100 opposition figures, with many jailed in absentia on treason and incitement charges. “Limiting the exercise of freedom of expression and association hinders Cambodia’s international standing,” the State Department said. – Reuters while Tokyo has seen its already frosty relations with Beijing deteriorate markedly. That makes Vietnam a striking choice of venue for a Japanese foreign policy speech touting a strategy backed by Washington. First articulated a decade ago by Takaichi’s mentor Shinzo Abe, the idea of a “free and open” Indo-Pacific has since been embraced by US partners and allies seeking to curb China’s influence in the region. Beijing has slammed the initiative as a veiled attempt to promote bloc confrontation, with Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian accusing Tokyo of “stirring up confrontation between camps”. In her address yesterday, Takaichi said she was updating the diplomatic vision for a “challenging” new era. Without naming Beijing, she warned against “excessive dependence on a single country for critical goods”, saying this often results from “unduly low prices” and calling for a “level playing field”.

Takaichi aims to deepen ties. – AFPPIC

energy security and supply chain resilience amid major disruptions stemming from the Middle East crisis. Japan is Vietnam’s largest provider of official development assistance and a key investor and trading partner. – AFP

She also underscored the importance of open shipping lanes, saying “regional supply chains are underpinned by safe and open navigation”. Takaichi, on her first visit to Vietnam since becoming prime minister in October, aims to deepen bilateral cooperation on

US State Dept ‘troubled’ by conviction of Cambodian opposition leader WASHINGTON: The US State Department said on Friday that Washington was “troubled” by a Cambodian appeals court’s decision that upheld a 27-year sentence for former opposition leader Kem Sokha for his treason conviction. Kem Sokha’s case was among the most prominent in a sweeping crackdown on opponents of the Cambodian People’s Party, which has ruled Cambodia for decades.

Sokha’s lawyer Pheng Heng speaking to media at the Phnom Penh Appeals Court on Thursday. – REUTERSPIC

Two charged with leading Phnom Penh protests over frozen bank accounts

The detained men were charged on Friday with incitement to cause serious unrest and obstruction of public traffic outside of the central bank, the Phnom Penh court said. Monday’s protest followed other demonstrations last month outside the NBC and the Chinese embassy in Phnom Penh. Protesters told AFP on Monday

Chinese authorities said he was central to a major gambling and fraud syndicate. The two accused – Suon Sovanthai, 37, and Vath Makara, 36 – were arrested on Monday during a demonstration outside the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) in Phnom Penh that left at least two protesters bloodied after clashes with authorities.

theSun on Sunday MAY 3, 2026

WORLD 8

We are like pirates, says Trump WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump said on Friday the US Navy was acting like pirates as he described an operation seizing a ship amid the American blockade of Iranian ports. ‘Renewed war likely’ Trump’s comparison of US naval activity to piracy comes as legal experts raise alarms about Iran’s blockade of the vital Strait of Hormuz and its plans to charge a fee for ships passing through it. Middle East, said it has redirected 45 vessels to “ensure compliance” with its blockade as of Friday. Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth told reporters last month that the blockade will last “as long as it takes”, while top US military officer General Dan Caine said it “applies to all ships, regardless of nationality, heading into or from Iranian ports”. US and Iran was “likely”, hours after Trump said he was “not satisfied” with a new Iranian negotiating proposal. Iran delivered the draft to mediator Pakistan on Thursday evening, state media reported without detailing its contents. The war has been on hold since April 8, with one failed round of peace talks having taken place in Pakistan since then.

life in this environment where you can browse, you can connect with people”. According to the Audio Publishers Association (APA), audiobook sales reached US$2.22 billion (RM8.8 billion) in the United States in 2024, nearly doubling over the past five years. In the store, audiobook tablets called “story tiles” line the shelves, ready to be inserted into a player for listening through headphones. Each tile plays a short excerpt and the full title can be accessed on the Audible app. The platform, which dominates the audiobook market, offers paid subscriptions, individual purchases and free access to some titles for Amazon account holders.. – AFP “Do we want to go and just blast the hell out of them and finish them forever or do we want to try and make a deal?” he said, saying he would “prefer not” to take the first option “on a human basis”. Mohammad Jafar Asadi, a senior figure in the Iranian military’s central command, said yesterday “a renewed conflict between Iran and the United States is likely”, in quotes published by Fars news agency. “Evidence has shown that the United States is not committed to any promises or agreements,” he said. – AFP

Tehran effectively closed the waterway – a key route for oil and gas shipments – after the start of the US-Israeli bombardment on Feb 28. The United States announced a blockade of Iranian ports last month after peace talks in Pakistan failed to achieve a breakthrough. The US Central Command, responsible for US forces in the

“We ... land on top of it and we took over the ship. We took over the cargo, took over the oil. It’s a very profitable business,” Trump said at a rally in Florida. “We’re like pirates,” he said to cheers from the crowd. “We’re sort of like pirates. But we’re not playing games.”

Iran has vowed to maintain its chokehold on the strait as long as Washington continues to blockade its ports. In Tehran, a senior military officer said yesterday that renewed fighting between the

“At this moment I’m not satisfied with what they’re offering,” Trump told reporters, blaming stalled talks on “tremendous discord” within Iran’s leadership.

‘Bookless bookstore’ opens NEW YORK: Audiobook giant Audible opened what it billed as the first “bookless bookstore” in New York on Friday as industry statistics show more American consumers embracing the format.

There is no rustle of pages or stacks of best-selling novels at the pop-up store opened by the Amazon subsidiary on the Lower East Side in Manhattan. “This is a physical place dedicated to bringing audio storytelling to life,” Audible CEO Bob Carrigan said during a press tour of the “Audible Story House” on Thursday. It was a slightly “wild idea” which “took quite a bit of imagination”, Carrigan said, adding that the month-long pop up aims to “bring audiobooks to

Flotilla members protesting in Ierapetra, Crete on Friday. – AFPPIC Gaza flotilla activists disperse ATHENS: Dozens of activists on a Gaza-bound aid flotilla bringing humanitarian aid to the Palestinian territory.

shortages since the start of Israel’s war against Gaza. The Gaza Strip, governed by Hamas, has been under an Israeli blockade since 2007. Israel’s Foreign Ministry earlier said around 175 activists had been taken off more than 20 vessels on Thursday by its military. Flotilla organisers put the number of “kidnapped” activists at 211. Foreign Ministry spokesman Oren Marmorstein on Friday said: “All the flotilla activists are now in Greece except Saif Abu Keshek and Thiago Avila.” – AFP

Israeli forces halted the boats on Wednesday night, with organisers the Global Sumud Flotilla saying their equipment had been smashed and that the intervention had left them facing a “calculated death trap at sea”. As they approached the port on Friday, the activists chanted “Free Palestine”. Israel controls all entry points to Gaza. It has been accused by the United Nations and foreign NGOs of strangling the flow of goods into the territory, causing

intercepted by Israeli forces off Crete left their boats on Friday, many taken to hospital on the Greek island while others were flown out. Greek officials said 31 of the roughly 175 activists had been taken to hospital on Crete. Turkish officials said about 60 had arrived by plane in Istanbul on Friday evening. More than 50 vessels had set sail from ports in France, Spain and Italy with the aim of breaking the blockade of Gaza and

A customer shops at Audible Story House in New York. – AFPPIC

Stranded whale ‘Timmy’ released into North Sea after dramatic rescue FRANKFURT: A humpback whale that had been struggling to survive after beaching near the German coast was released yesterday into the North Sea off Denmark, after being transported in a barge in a last-ditch rescue operation. The whale, dubbed “Timmy” in Germany – where its ordeal captured hearts and sparked a media frenzy – exited the barge, blew air through its blowhole and swam off, said Karin Walter Mommert, an entrepreneur who financed the rescue initiative. The whale “has some small injuries, probably from being transported in rough seas, but they are superficial”, said Walter Mommert. It “should now swim up the Norwegian coast towards the Arctic”, said the entrepreneur, who made her fortune in horse racing. The whale was first spotted stuck on a sandbank on March 23 near the city of Luebeck, on Germany’s Baltic Sea coast, before freeing itself and then becoming stuck again several times. Various attempts to save it had failed, and authorities had

announced they were giving up, prompting Walter-Mommert and another entrepreneur to step in. They came up with what many saw as a long-shot plan: coax the whale into the water-filled hold of a special barge and tow it back to its natural habitat. – AFP