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A global event Celebrating the essence of beauty Bedtimes Importance of stable sleep schedules – P22 THURSDAY | MAY 7, 2026

WEEKLY FOCUS MONDAY Technology and social media

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TUESDAY Family and parenting

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‘Changes affecting accredited agents must be done via fair, transparent and complete process.’ Matta rejects Iata billing changes, cites lack of consultation

WEDNESDAY Fashion and beauty

THURSDAY Home and living

FRIDAY Travel and leisure

SATURDAY Food and beverage

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

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p 23 Kuantan woman offers to be ‘runner,’ helper, friend

p 24 Sharp, Nojima bring smart Japanese living into homes

p 25 Simple Plan set to rock Malaysia in November

Report on — page 2 World Cup cheer Football fans nationwide to have access to all 104 matches as Unifi TV and RTM appointed official rights holders for Malaysia.

MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki showing the four paintings during a press conference yesterday. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

Report on — page 3

RM121 million art haul within reach, says Azam Baki

Industry players say potential of Perlis prized mango remains vastly untapped despite surging demand. Huge growth for Harumanis but fakes sour market

Report on — page 4

Paintings by Picasso, Miro among four 1MDB-linked masterpieces recovered from US as MACC chief vows to secure more by year-end.

THURSDAY | MAY 7, 2026

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Islamic civilisation proves religion, science can advance together: Queen KUALA LUMPUR: Islamic civilisation has shown that religion and science can go hand-in-hand in the advancement of knowledge, said Her Majesty the Queen of Malaysia Raja Zarith Sofiah. Raja Zarith Sofiah said today’s challenge is not only to appreciate the knowledge inherited by modern civilisation but also to renew the environment that enables more meaningful intellectual development in the future. “The Malay world has long benefited from scholars who travelled across regions, and names associated with the (Central Asian) region, such as Maa Waraa’ al-Nahr and Samarkand, are not unfamiliar in its intellectual memory.

Anwar leads delegation to Cebu for 48th Asean Summit CEBU (PHILIPPINES): Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will be leading the Malaysian delegation to the 48th Asean Summit and Related Meetings here today. Malaysian ambassador to the Philippines Datuk Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino Anthony said Asean leaders are expected to discuss the impact of the West Asia conflict on the Southeast Asian region and the bloc’s response towards ensuring regional energy and food security. He said Malaysia’s participation in the event demonstrates its commitment and resolve to strengthening Asean centrality, unity and resilience in an increasingly complex global environment. “The 48th Asean Summit and Related Meetings will be an opportunity for Malaysia to share and exchange views on various issues on Asean community building and the way forward.” Abdul Malik said Anwar would be accompanied by his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani and Economy Deputy Minister Datuk Indera Mohd Shahar Abdullah. He said Anwar, upon arrival, would participate in the Special Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia Malaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Summit. “On Friday, he will participate in the 48th Asean Summit, and is expected to have sideline meetings with some of his Asean counterparts.” He said Mohamad would attend the Asean Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, 31st Asean Political Security Community Council Meeting, 38th Asean Coordinating Council Meeting as well as the Asean Joint Foreign and Economic Ministers’ Meeting on Thursday. “The Asean Joint Foreign and Economic Ministers’ Meeting is a continuation of the process that was initiated under Malaysia’s chairmanship to ensure coordination between the political-security and economic pillars. “It is an approach that is increasingly relevant in light of evolving regional and global developments,” said Abdul Malik. The Philippines took over the Asean chairmanship from Malaysia on Jan 1. Themed “Navigating Our Future, Together,” the republic during its tenure seeks to steer Asean’s priorities through three pillars – Peace and Security Anchors, Prosperity Corridors and People Empowerment. The Philippines will be hosting over 650 Asean meetings. – Bernama Raja Zarith Sofiah, who is also UTM chancellor, also witnessed the exchange of MoUs between UTM and five agencies in Uzbekistan. Her Majesty also witnessed the handover of 20,000 copies of the Quran from Nasyrul Quran to the Uzbekistan Waqf Board. – Bernama al-Bukhari, Imam al-Maturidi and al-Biruni, we are reminded that this region was once a centre of civilisation where knowledge was pursued with rigour and dignity.” Her Majesty was accompanied at the conference by Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir and Malaysian ambassador to Uzbekistan Ilham Tuah Illias. She was received by Uzbekistan’s Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister Kongratbay Avezimbetovich Sharipov. The royal conference, jointly organised by Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and the International Centre of Islamic Civilisation Tashkent, was also attended by Higher Education director-general Datuk Prof Dr Azlinda Azman, UTM Board of Directors chairman Tan Sri Azman Mokhtar and UTM vice-chancellor Prof Dr Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim.

She said certain aspects of modern world history tend to portray religion and science as being in tension, opposition or even competition. “However, the Islamic tradition reminds us that this is not the path to understanding the development of knowledge. “A civilisation can recognise intellect without separating it from revelation, research can be welcomed without abandoning moral values, and new discoveries can be explored without forgetting wisdom,” she said in a royal address shared via the official Facebook page of His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim. The address was delivered at the opening of the royal conference “Tradition of Science in Islamic Civilisation: Sources, Potential and Challenges” held at the Centre of Islamic Civilisation in Tashkent, Uzbekistan on Tuesday, in conjunction with Her Majesty’s special visit to the country.

“We live in an age driven by speed, immense technical potential and constant distraction. Information moves rapidly, yet judgement and discernment do not always keep pace. “Institutions may grow larger but not necessarily deeper. Power may increase while clarity of purpose weakens. “The question we face is whether we can recover a vision of knowledge that is intellectually rigorous while remaining firmly grounded in moral values.” In a separate post, Raja Zarith Sofiah said collaboration in education and research between Malaysia and Uzbekistan is vital in building an environment for deeper and more principled intellectual growth. Her Majesty said although the two countries are geographically distant, their connection through the dissemination of knowledge has long existed.

“This reminds us that Islamic civilisation has never belonged to a single people. It has been sustained across regions through travel, transmission, translation, teaching and mutual respect for knowledge.” The Queen said collaboration between Malaysia and Uzbekistan in the conference carries significance beyond administrative matters, reflecting a shared commitment to knowledge preservation and renewal. “This shows that the best way to honour the past is not merely to speak of it from afar but also to build conditions that allow knowledge to continue to flourish. “Uzbekistan is one of the historic homelands of Islamic scholarship. Names associated with this region remain respected and revered across the Muslim world. “When we reflect on figures such as Imam

Malaysians to enjoy Fifa World Cup matches

be organised at selected locations on a modest scale, aimed at encouraging community participation and strengthening fan engagement nationwide. He said several sponsors have been identified and are currently being finalised, with official announcements expected in due course. At the same time, the government has issued a firm warning on piracy, stressing that strict enforcement action would be taken against any illegal distribution of World Cup content. Fahmi expressed hope that the Fifa World Cup 2026 would bring Malaysians together through the shared passion for football, fostering national unity and collective pride in the spirit of sport. He also encouraged the public to download the RTM Klik app via Google Play or the Apple App Store for easier access to live and on-demand coverage. Previously, news reports had highlighted that Fifa’s pricing, estimated at about RM200 million, had been a major stumbling block, with local broadcasters hesitant to commit and no confirmed buyers emerging throughout 2025.

o Two broadcasters appointed official rights holders, ensuring access to coverage of biggest football tournament for fans nationwide, says minister

PETALING JAYA: After months of uncertainty over broadcasting rights and steep pricing, the government has confirmed that Malaysians will get access to the Fifa World Cup 2026 through a mixed free-to-air and digital arrangement involving RTM and Unifi TV. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the two broadcasters have been appointed as official rights holders for Malaysia, ensuring nationwide access to football’s biggest tournament. Speaking at his weekly media conference yesterday, he said matches would be made available via free-to-air television through MyTV Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

as well as over-the-top (OTT) platforms, including RTM Klik and Unifi TV. He said all 104 matches would be broadcast live on Unifi TV while RTM would carry most matches either live or on a delayed basis, widening access for viewers across the country. “The arrangement ensures inclusive and extensive access for football fans across the country. “The Grandstand programme will be produced from Angkasapuri Kota Media, featuring main broadcasts in Bahasa Malaysia and selected segments in English. “Updates will also be shared through RTM’s Selamat Pagi Malaysia programme.” Fahmi said public viewing events would also

FRIENDLY VISIT ... His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim departing for Moscow yesterday following a special invitation from the Russian Federation to attend the upcoming Victory Day celebrations on Saturday. – PIC COURTESY OF SULTAN IBRAHIM SULTAN ISKANDAR FACEBOOK PAGE

THURSDAY | MAY 7, 2026

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Artworks linked to 1MDB recovered

N. Sembilan still under Unity govt

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission (MACC) yesterday unveiled four artworks linked to 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) worth a combined US$198,125 (RM786,556). It said seven more artworks by Henri Matisse, Alexander Calder, Pablo Picasso, William H. Bailey, Raoul Dufy, Salvador Dali and Gustave Loiseau remained under recovery, worth about US$1.7 million (RM6.9 million) in total. MACC is also pursuing proceeds from the sale of Claude Monet’s Vetheuil au Soleil in Switzerland worth about €25.2 million (RM114 million). MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said the remaining recoveries were expected to be secured by the end of this year. “Rest assured, we will do our best to bring them back by the end of this year,” he said. The four works unveiled were Joan Miró’s Composition (1953), Maurice Utrillo’s Maison de rendez-vous, rue Saint-Rustique, Montmartre (1934), Balthus’ Étude pour femme couchée (1948) and Pablo Picasso’s L’Ecuyère et les clowns (1961). Azam said the paintings were brought back to Malaysia on April 14 after leaving New York on April 8 and arriving at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport on April 10. He said the artworks were not

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily

PETALING JAYA: The Unity government remains firmly in control of Negeri Sembilan under Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun amid recent political uncertainty in the state, said government spokesperson Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. Fahmi, who is also Communications Minister said concerns over the state administration have been resolved following a high-level meeting between senior leaders of Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pakatan Harapan (PH) on Tuesday. “Any future issues will be referred to the top leadership, in line with the agreements reached among Unity government component parties,” he told a weekly press conference yesterday. Also present were Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching, ministry secretary-general Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah, Bernama chief executive officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, Bernama deputy editor-in-chief (news service) Mohd Shukri Ishak and RTM director-general Ashwad Ismail. Earlier, the Unity Government Leadership Consultative Council agreed to continue its political cooperation in Negeri Sembilan to ensure administrative stability and safeguard public welfare. The decision was reached during a meeting co-chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is also PH chairman and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who leads BN. On April 27, 14 BN-Umno assemblymen reportedly withdrew their support and expressed a loss of confidence in Aminuddin. Meanwhile, Fahmi dismissed speculation over possible state elections in Malacca, Johor and Negeri Sembilan, saying no such discussions had taken place. His remarks come after reports that DAP had instructed its party machinery to be prepared for snap polls should state assemblies be dissolved. DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke Siew Fook said the directive was issued following the party’s central executive committee meeting, which also deliberated on political developments in Negeri Sembilan. In a separate development, Fahmi said Majlis Amanah Rakyat has agreed to reduce rental rates by 20% following the prime minister’s announcement on efforts to ease cost pressures on small traders. He said local authorities and state governments have also been instructed to lower rental rates for business premises as part of broader measures to ease the financial burden on hawkers and small businesses amid rising living costs. The reductions will be implemented nationwide and announced progressively by district.

the RM42 billion believed to have been misappropriated. He described it as among the highest asset recovery rates globally for a large-scale financial crime case. The remaining recoveries form part of the wider 1MDB-linked asset trail associated with former 1MDB general counsel Jasmine Loo. The 1MDB scandal triggered asset tracing and recovery efforts in multiple jurisdictions after billions of dollars were alleged to have been siphoned from the state fund. Azam said Malaysia’s 1MDB asset recovery had exceeded earlier expectations, with the amount recovered now surpassing the previously cited 70% benchmark. “This exceeds the earlier estimate of around 70% or RM30 billion, as stated in previous reports. “The international standard is not up to 100%. “Generally, if you can recover about 60% to 70%, that would already be considered sufficient,” he said.

o MACC reveals seized paintings worth in excess of RM780,000 and expects to retrieve more by year-end

Azam said efforts to recover the remaining assets had started about four years ago and would likely have taken much longer without international cooperation. He said the four works are being kept temporarily at MACC headquarters under controlled conditions with the cooperation of the National Art Gallery, pending authentication and preservation procedures before being handed over. On their eventual fate, Azam said the decision on whether the artworks would be kept or auctioned off again would be up to the Finance Ministry. On the broader 1MDB recovery effort, Azam said Malaysia had recovered RM31.3 billion, or 74.53%, of

physically seized, but returned through a lawful process involving a power of attorney executed by the United States Department of Justice to MACC through the Attorney-General’s Chambers. The recovery, he said, also involved mutual legal assistance and close cooperation with US authorities. “This is a breakthrough that enabled us to break through various legal issues and obstacles. This was possible because of cooperation and mutual understanding. “Of course, the law is one thing, but overcoming legal issues can be done when there is cooperation and when we look for easier and more practical ways for asset recovery.”

Rafizi arriving at the MACC headquarters yesterday to continue providing his statement for a third time over a RM1.1 billion investment case. – BERNAMAPIC Probe into semiconductor deal nears completion

PUTRAJAYA: An MACC probe into the government’s deal with Arm Holdings is nearing completion, with only two more witness statements left to be recorded, MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said yesterday. He said the remaining witnesses were one individual in Taiwan and another in Malaysia and the investigation paper was expected to be submitted to the deputy public prosecutor soon after the final statements were obtained. Azam said the case was being investigated for alleged abuse of power, cheating and criminal breach of trust. “We have identified two

MACC is now probing whether there were irregularities in how the investment deal was handled and approved. Meanwhile, Bernama reported that Rafizi said investigations into him have so far centred on procedural matters rather than financial transactions in relation to the Arm Holdings deal. Speaking to reporters outside the MACC headquarters yesterday, he said no questions during his statement recording touched on money flows or payments, contrary to earlier claims. “The questions so far have been about joint venture decisions and procedures.” – By Faiz Ruzman

was rushed and skewed, potentially resulting in financial implications for the government. Former economy minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, who announced the deal on the government’s side last year, was questioned by MACC earlier this week while his former aide, James Chai, had also been called in to assist investigators. The deal was announced in March last year, when Rafizi said the government would pay Arm Holdings US$250 million (RM992 million) over 10 years for access to seven high-end chip design blueprints and training for 10,000 engineers as part of Malaysia’s push to move up the chip value chain.

individuals may recommend to be charged in court. But that is subject to the Attorney General’s Chambers to decide in due course,” he told reporters after a press conference at the MACC headquarters. However, he declined to name the individuals. The investigation is understood to involve the government’s semiconductor agreement with UK-based chip designer Arm Holdings, which has come under scrutiny over its structure, value and approval process. The investigation paper was opened on Feb 16 following complaints from several NGOs which alleged that the deal whom we

THURSDAY | MAY 7, 2026

/thesuntelegram FOLLOW / Malaysian Paper

ON TELEGRAM m RAM

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Harumanis ripe for take-off

lifestyle rather than any specific health regimen. She has long favoured dishes like singgang fish (oil-free fish soup or broth) and ulam , which she has eaten since childhood. “We know singgang is nutritious because it uses healthy ingredients like fish, turmeric, ginger and asam keping (dried tamarind slices). “It’s simply boiled, so that may be one reason I’ve stayed healthy. “But above all, my health is a gift from God, and I’m grateful for it every day.” – Bernama 75,000 families receive aid from Zakat Selangor SHAH ALAM: Lembaga Zakat Selangor (Zakat Selangor) recorded zakat distribution totalling RM1.33 billion last year, with more than 60% channelled to the hardcore poor and poor, involving over 75,000 families across the state. Zakat Selangor said in a statement that the performance was supported by zakat collection amounting to RM1.31 billion, enabling assistance to be delivered continuously through various structured interventions. It also identified more than 14,000 hardcore poor and poor families as the new asnaf (recipients of zakat), following the strengthening of assessment processes and expanded outreach to groups previously unidentified. According to the statement, the determination of asnaf s tatus is based on the had kifayah (adequacy limit) calculation, a minimum sufficiency threshold that takes into account basic household needs such as food, shelter, education, healthcare and current cost of living. In a related development, it said more than 2,800 families exited the cycle of poverty through continuous intervention programmes, reflecting the effectiveness of a distribution approach that not only provided welfare assistance but also emphasised long-term empowerment. “The Petaling district recorded the highest number of hardcore poor and poor families with nearly 13,600 families, followed by Klang with more than 12,600 families and Hulu Langat at around 11,700 families, reflecting the concentration of poverty challenges in densely populated areas. “This situation reflects urban socioeconomic challenges that require more comprehensive and targeted intervention approaches, in line with Zakat Selangor’s ongoing efforts to strengthen support for those in need,” the statement said. Zakat Selangor said it would continue to enhance the distribution of basic aid while expanding development initiatives such as skills training and income enhancement programmes to help the asnaf escape poverty sustainably. The institution also reaffirmed its commitment to carrying out zakat collection and distribution with transparency and integrity, in line with Islamic principles, while supporting the state government’s efforts to empower asnaf development. – Bernama

o Growth potential for premium mango strong despite fake fruits and seasonal limits, says entrepreneur

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s prized Harumanis mango industry is poised for significant growth over the next decade, driven by surging demand and vast untapped export potential even as supply struggles to keep pace and counterfeit products threaten consumer confidence. Industry players say the premium fruit, synonymous with Perlis, remains underexploited in both domestic and international markets, signalling strong headroom for expansion. Harumanis entrepreneur Muhammad Abqari Yusof, 33, said demand is expected to rise sharply over the next five to 10 years, underpinned by the fruit’s distinct flavour and limited availability. “At present, the fruit has not yet been exported on a large scale and even local demand has not been fully met. This indicates that the market opportunity ahead remains wide and promising,” he said. However, he warned that the long-standing issue of counterfeit Harumanis continues to undermine trust in the market. “Customers often ask about the differences and why fake products exist. Some dishonest sellers take advantage of the situation.” Muhammad Abqari said two main forms of deception persist. The first involves mislabelling where imported mangoes from countries such as Thailand and Cambodia which are similar in appearance are falsely marketed as Harumanis from Perlis. The second involves quality manipulation, where unripe fruits are harvested and sold prematurely. “This results in a sour taste, leading to complaints and damaging the reputation of genuine Harumanis, as consumers may believe they have been misled.”

Noor Asyikin said product diversification is key to unlocking the full commercial potential of Harumanis beyond its short harvest season. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

He added that such practices have left some consumers sceptical, underscoring the need for stronger public awareness and industry-wide efforts to educate buyers on identifying authentic Harumanis. Muhammad Abqari also explained that the fruit’s premium pricing reflects its labour-intensive cultivation process. “Unlike more common varieties, Harumanis requires meticulous management – from maintaining soil health and nurturing trees to ensuring quality flowering and producing high-grade fruit. The process is labour-intensive and incurs high costs.” Compounding the challenge is its highly seasonal nature. Harumanis is harvested only once a year, typically between March and May, with a production window lasting about two to two-and-a-half months. “Harumanis does not have overlapping harvest periods in other

are faster and more cost-effective than traditional methods. Despite her demanding routine, Jawiah manages her time well, balancing farm work with household responsibilities and caring for her husband, who has several health issues. “In the mornings, I tap rubber until nearly noon. After asar prayers I head to the padi fields and vegetable garden. After zohor or at night, I give massages if there are customers.” Remarkably, Jawiah remains free of major illnesses and credits her simple year,” she said. Noor Asyikin said she began her business in 2023 with cordial and juice products before expanding into other offerings, driven by encouraging customer response. “The products are made using pure Harumanis mango, which contributes to their strong aroma and distinctive flavour. “However, prices are slightly higher than market alternatives due to the high cost of raw fruit, with some products such as jam priced at nearly double,” she said. Currently, the products are distributed mainly within Perlis through hotels, retail outlets and online platforms. “Sales have been very positive, showing steady and encouraging growth year after year,” she said, adding that Harumanis-based products hold strong potential for expansion both domestically and internationally.

she has no intention of slowing down as long as she remains fit and able. “If I choose to stop, my husband, Noh Ismail, 89, and I can still get by with support from our children. But I don’t want to depend entirely on them. They have their own families and responsibilities.” Jawiah said she handles most of the work herself, including cultivating a two-hectare padi field and tapping rubber on a 1.4ha smallholding. However, over the past two years, she has hired workers to maintain the farms using drones, which she says regions. Once the season ends, consumers must wait until the following year,” he said. Looking ahead, he urged industry players to raise quality standards to safeguard the fruit’s reputation, while calling on consumers to remain vigilant against counterfeit or substandard products. Meanwhile, C’Manis Marketing entrepreneur Noor Asyikin Osman, 52, said product diversification is key to unlocking the fruit’s full commercial potential beyond its short harvest season. She said value-added offerings such as Harumanis chilli sauce, jam and cordial are gaining traction among consumers. “The inspiration came from its seasonal nature. Harumanis is only available once a year, so consumers can enjoy it only for a limited period. “By developing value-added products, customers are now able to enjoy Harumanis throughout the

Great-grandmother works three jobs to keep active JERTIH: The tireless work ethic of 71 year-old Jawiah Abd Rahman, fondly known as Mok Teh Semek, continues to inspire her community, especially the younger generation. keeps herself busy because she believes staying active is the key to remaining healthy and energetic in her later years.

“I started taking on all these jobs after my first husband passed away when I was 45. At the time, I had to work hard to support my 12 children. Over time, I grew used to working and even came to enjoy it. I’m not the type who can sit still – if I don’t work, I feel unwell, like I have a fever or body aches.” Jawiah acknowledged that her children often worry about her and have urged her to stop working, but

A resident of Kampung Tok Has, she says “rest” has never been part of her vocabulary. Since her youth, she has taken on a range of jobs – from cultivating padi and tapping rubber to growing vegetables and working as a masseuse – and remains active to this day. The grandmother of 45 and great grandmother of six adds that she

THURSDAY | MAY 7, 2026

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Matta opposes new remittance policy

“Matta does not have the authority to compel compliance or non-compliance. Accordingly, Matta will not assume responsibility for any consequences or adverse actions taken by Iata against agencies that choose not to comply with the revised requirements. “Matta will escalate this matter to the Passenger Agency Programme Global Joint Council for further deliberation to secure a more balanced and equitable outcome for Malaysian accredited agents. “Matta remains committed to safeguarding the interests of the travel agency community and will continue to engage constructively with all relevant stakeholders.” The BSP facilitates financial transactions between travel agents and airlines, streamlining reporting and remittance. Among the key aspects of the BSP is that it is used by accredited travel agents to manage ticketing, reporting and payment to airlines. Agents access the system via the internet-based BSPlink to download reports, manage tickets and check schedules. Matta is the leading and largest national travel association in Malaysia, with some 3,000 members comprising local tour and travel agents and overseas affiliations.

o Association says decision made without addressing industry concerns, complete discussions or counter proposals

Anwar said haj approvals are based on a transparent system and cannot be manipulated by any party. – BERNAMAPIC No influence in approval of haj pilgrims: TH

Ű BY ANDREW SAGAYAM newsdesk@thesubdaily.com

resolutions and directives from its headquarters, a position Matta formally disputes. “Matta emphasises that travel agencies in Malaysia are not Iata members but operate as Iata accredited agents under the Passenger Agency Programme. As the national association representing these accredited agents, Matta consistently advocates transparent, consultative engagement on all regulatory and procedural matters impacting the industry. “Any change that affects the financial and operational stability of accredited agents must be developed through a fair, transparent and consultative process. The decision announced by Iata Malaysia does not reflect such a process,” Fazil said in a statement. He said as Iata accredited entities, each travel agency and tour operator must independently decide whether to comply with the new remittance frequency.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) has pushed back against a new payment rule by the International Air Transport Association (Iata) Malaysia, set to take effect on June 1. The change, known as “remittance frequency alignment”, will alter how often travel agents must pay airlines through the Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP). At the 26th Agency Programme Joint Council Malaysia meeting held on Monday, Matta rejected the implementation of the new requirement as discussions on the matter remain incomplete and counter proposals along with concrete industry concerns have not been fully addressed. Matta vice-president (Air Transportation) Dr Fazil Khan said despite this, Iata Malaysia proceeded, citing internal

MECCA: The queue system and quota allocation are the main criteria used by Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) to determine eligibility of pilgrims, with no influence involving financial capacity or higher package payments. Licensed haj operators (LHO) operations director Anwar Ahmad said all prospective pilgrims are subject to the same processes and criteria set by TH. He said there is a misconception among the public that paying for more expensive packages would speed up the process or improve the chances of a successful application. “That is not true, as all are processed based on priority and current quota, not the package price. “Package payments only cover additional services after an applicant has been approved to perform the

haj ,” he told reporters on Tuesday. Anwar said the approach is crucial to ensure fairness and equality are upheld in the management of pilgrims, given the high annual demand compared with the limited quota allocated. He said the situation has also been exploited by irresponsible parties spreading misleading information, including claims of guaranteed or expedited approval through certain packages. “Syndicates also use various tactics such as promoting (certain packages) on social media, offering exclusive deals and claiming to have special access to attract prospective pilgrims. “The public is reminded that haj approvals are based on a transparent system and cannot be manipulated by any party,” he said. – Bernama

* Document certification at Singapore Overseas Mission is by appointment only. No walk-ins allowed.

THURSDAY | MAY 7, 2026

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Erratic weather no barrier for watermelon grower

‘Highways vital for economic growth’

KUALA LUMPUR: The construction of highways plays an important role in stimulating the country’s economic growth through job creation, support for supply chains and business opportunities, according to the Malaysian Highway Authority (MHA). “Once a highway is completed, facilities such as rest and relax areas are provided, which in turn open up opportunities for traders to conduct business. This indirectly expands economic activities and contributes to national economic growth,” said MHA director-general Mohd Hadzmir Yusoff. He was speaking on the sidelines of Bernama TV’s Ruang Bicara programme “Needs and Challenges of Urban Highway Construction” on Tuesday. Mohd Hadzmir said the demand for highways remains high due to the increasing number of vehicles and congestion on urban roads. “For your information, we at MHA monitor daily traffic volumes of about six million.” He said increase in the number of new vehicles also puts pressure on existing road capacity. “Last year, we registered about 600,000 new vehicles. Where will these vehicles go if we do not build new highways?” On financing, he said highway development is carried out via a public-private partnership model. “Construction costs are borne by concession companies and recouped through toll collection. It is true that in the long term, even when we build highways, congestion may still occur. Therefore, we hope users will also use public transport.” IJM Corporation Bhd Toll division CEO Chua Lay Hoon said although building more highways does not solve congestion, Malaysians still tend to rely on private vehicles. – Bernama Efforts to boost island state water supply GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Water Supply Corporation will instal two 1.8m diametre main pipelines to channel more treated water from the Sungai Dua water treatment plant to the Southwest district on the island as part of efforts to strengthen water supply by 2030. Its CEO Datuk K. Pathmanathan said the project is a key component of Phase 3 of the Water Contingency Plan 2030, with an estimated total cost of about RM416 million involving pipe procurement, installation works, excavation and road restoration works as well as land acquisition costs. He said the first pipeline would connect the Sungai Dua water treatment plant to the connection point of the Penang Third Undersea Twin Pipeline Project (3rd PTSP) in Butterworth, involving a route of about 13km on the mainland. “The second pipeline will connect the 3rd PTSP landing point in the Macallum area to the Bukit Dumbar Reservoir and pump house complex.” – Bernama

o Leveraging on rainfall patterns in different parts of Peninsular Malaysia and making use of staggered planting, entrepreneur sustains year-round production

hectares nationwide, with a planting schedule of between 320ha and 480ha per month, enabling continuous supply. “Daily production is estimated at between 250 and 350 tonnes, depending on weather conditions, with farm management carried out systematically, involving hundreds of workers and dozens of supervisors across the country.” Koh said selecting seeds suited to the local climate has become a critical factor after various early trials failed to produce the desired quality. He said many of the seeds the company tried did not produce the required quality of fruits. “Now, we choose stable varieties that produce crunchy and sweet flesh, namely the Cinta Manis variety.” He added that each variety requires a different approach, including water and nutrient control as well as harvesting periods, to ensure optimal fruit quality, with some varieties harvested as early as 26 to 28 days after flowering. On the sector’s potential, he said it offers vast opportunities, especially for the young generation, as it could be developed into agro-tourism and open avenues in technology and research.

JASIN: Increasingly unpredictable weather is no longer a problem but an advantage for a local watermelon grower, who has been leveraging seasonal variations across the country to sustain year-round production. Watermelon entrepreneur Koh Eng Koon said differences in rainfall patterns between the northern and southern parts of Peninsular Malaysia allow for staggered planting, thus preventing supply disruptions in the market. “Based on my more than 30 years of experience in this field, I have observed that weather patterns in Malaysia shift from north to south. So, when it starts raining in the northern states, I shift planting to areas in the south. We follow the weather, not fight it. “Everyone knows that the weather is becoming more extreme, but if we understand the patterns and plan planting properly, we can still maintain supply.” Koh said it took him between five and 10

years to fully understand seasonal trends in a given area before being able to plan planting more precisely. He added that the strategy of planting across multiple states ensures that production remains unaffected while the risk of losses due to extreme weather in any single location is reduced. “We have farms in almost all states except Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Sabah and Sarawak. At each location, we limit planting to around 300-500ha. This way, if one area is affected, we still have other locations as a backup,” said Koh, who started with just 1.6ha of land in Tiang Dua, Malacca, in the early 1980s. Koh said in Malacca, Koon Huat Agriculture, the largest farm operated by his company, is located in Tebonglang, covering about 80ha, Bernama reported. He added that through this strategy, his watermelon cultivation, particularly the Cinta Manis variety, now spans thousands of

Koh (left) said selecting seeds suited to the local climate is a critical factor in producing watermelons with crunchy and sweet flesh. – BERNAMAPIC

Sixteen Penang tourism products receive MyTQA recognition GEORGE TOWN: Sixteen tourism products in Penang have received the Malaysia Tourism Quality Assurance (MyTQA) recognition from the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry as of 2025, placing the state among those with the highest number of certified tourism products in Malaysia. The ministry’s Penang director Dr Annuar Mohamed said the namely Platinum, Gold and Silver, based on stipulated criteria and an evaluation process conducted by appointed panels, with final approval by the ministry’s top management. “There are seven MyTQA TOP Penang (Man-Made), Penang Hill (Eco-Tourism), Queensbay Mall (Shopping and Lifestyle), Kampung Agong (Eco-Tourism), Bertam Resort (MICE), Bertam Water Theme Park (Man-Made), The Habitat Penang Hill (Eco-Tourism) and The St Giles Wembley Hotel (MICE).” recipients were Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm (Man-Made), Sunway Carnival Mall (Shopping and Lifestyle) and Picca Convention Centre (MICE) while the Silver recipients were Taman Herba Bertam (Man-Made), Ghost Museum (Man-Made), The Gold Souq (Shopping and Lifestyle), D’8000 Mini Golf Cafe (Man-Made) and

He added that applications for MyTQA recognition in 2026 for several new tourism products have been submitted, including Penang Waterfront Convention Centre, Penang History Gallery, Gurney Plaza, Umi Umi Penang and Penang River Cruise Juru. Meanwhile, Wong said the Discover Penang: MyTQA Stamp Collection Journey Programme is a new initiative by Penang Global Tourism in collaboration with the ministry and Tourism Malaysia, running from May 5 to Nov 30. – Bernama

categories, namely Culture and Heritage Tourism, Nature, Adventure and Eco-Tourism, Man-Made Tourism, Sports and Recreation Tourism, Shopping and Lifestyle Tourism, Aqua and Marine Tourism as well as Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE). “Among those that have achieved the Platinum classification are The

He was speaking at the launch of the Discover Penang: MyTQA Stamp Collection Journey programme at The Top @ Komtar on Tuesday, which was officiated by Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai. He said the Gold classification

Wonderfood Museum (Man-Made). Annuar said MyTQA serves as an accreditation programme to assure tourists of the quality of tourism products while encouraging operators to continuously improve service standards.

recognition reflects the state’s strong commitment to delivering high quality tourism products and services, in line with national standards. He said MyTQA recognition was awarded under three classifications,

THURSDAY | MAY 7, 2026

7

Businessman clarifies stake in sanctioned firm

No Asean consensus on Myanmar polls CEBU: Asean has yet to reach a consensus on recognising the results of Myanmar’s elections. This comes after former military leader Min Aung Hlaing assumed office as president in April and formalised his grip on power, five years after a February 2021 coup. Myanmar held elections in phases last year. The first round of voting was held on Dec 28, followed by balloting on Jan 11 and Jan 25. A pro-military party secured victory. The crisis in Myanmar has remained a key focus of Asean discussions since the military coup. Asean spokesperson Dominic Xavier M. Imperial said the grouping is guided by the Five-Point Consensus in its engagement with Naypyidaw, and the position has not changed. “However, there is continued engagement with Asean,” he said. He said the bloc is monitoring developments, particularly progress in implementing the consensus.

included proceeds from scams, stolen funds and illicit cyber actors. Beijing has called Huione’s Li “a core member” of the criminal gang of Chen Zhi, another Chinese-born accused scam boss who was operating from Cambodia before being extradited to China this year. Cambodia has emerged as a hub for the transnational scam industry in recent years, with organised crime groups initially mostly targeting Chinese speakers before widening their reach and stealing tens of billions of dollars annually from victims around the world. Cambodian authorities said they have cracked down on the syndicates, and detained and deported more than 13,000 foreign nationals involved in scams since early last year. Authorities have in recent months announced charges against several police and immigration officials accused of involvement with cyberscams. – AFP

remaining

money

after

the

was central to a major gambling and fraud syndicate. Li owned 62% of Huione Pay’s shares, while Hun To owned 30%, according to a report by liquidator Reachs & Partners. Huione Pay’s liquidation was completed last October, it said. Hun To, who is a cousin of Prime Minister Hun Manet, said he did not manage the business operations of Huione Pay and “never received any profits, dividends or assets from that company”. He was previously listed as a director of Huione Pay on the Commerce Ministry’s online business registry. Huione Pay had a net cash balance of more than US$1.1 million (RM4.3 million) after all creditors were paid, and the remaining funds were distributed to “actual shareholders responsible for the company’s past operations”, the liquidator said. “I received no share of the

Access for Asean’s special envoy would support engagement with all stakeholders and advance inclusive national dialogue, it said. The Philippines also said that the developments should be used to build momentum for political dialogue and reconciliation in Myanmar under the Asean peace framework known as the Five-Point Consensus. Suu Kyi has been in detention since her elected government was toppled in a 2021 coup. Her sentence was commuted by one-sixth as part of an amnesty last month for thousands of prisoners. – Reuters PHNOM Cambodian businessman Hun To said yesterday he owned a 30% stake in a digital payments platform linked to cyberscams and money laundering and sanctioned by Washington. “I would like to inform the public that I have indeed owned 30% of shares in Huione Pay Plc,” Hun To said in a statement. The US government last year accused Huione Group, which owned several companies offering e-commerce, payment and cryptocurrency exchange services, including Huione Pay, of laundering funds for criminal groups. o Huione Pay liquidated in October PENH: her lawyers and to her family,” he wrote in a letter addressed to French President Emmanuel Macron. Suu Kyi’s lawyer, Francois Zimeray, said Aris handed the letter to Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Tuesday. “We have had no proof of life, no photos for years. We still don’t know where she is,” he said. Lawyer Catalina de la Sota, also representing Suu Kyi, said: “Why is she being kept in total secrecy, in violation of all international conventions?” – AFP

liquidation,” Hun To said. Since last month, protesters have demanded the unfreezing of their accounts with the Huione platform H-Pay, previously Huione Pay, which they said have been inaccessible since December. The National Bank of Cambodia has said the Huione platforms’ business licences have been revoked, and Huione Pay creditors should go to the courts, while creditors of the newer entity, H-Pay, can make claims with the liquidator. The US Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) designated Phnom Penh based Huione Group a “primary money-laundering concern” last year, and prohibited US financial institutions from processing transactions with it. FinCEN said the conglomerate had received at least US$4 billion worth of illegal proceeds between August 2021 and January 2025. That

The consensus calls for the cessation of violence, dialogue among all parties, the appointment of an Asean special envoy on Myanmar to engage all stakeholders. – Bernama Grant access to Suu Kyi, urges Manila Huione’s former chairman, Li Xiong, was extradited to China last month. Chinese authorities say he

MANILA: The Philippines called on Myanmar yesterday to allow Asean’s special envoy to meet detained leader Aung San Suu Kyi, pressing for greater transparency after authorities allowed her to serve the remainder of her sentence under house arrest. “We view these developments as vital steps in confidence-building measures necessary for long-term national stability in Myanmar,” the Philippines, serving as this year’s Asean chair, said in a statement. Its Department of Foreign Affairs said Myanmar should allow Suu Kyi to communicate with her family to “demonstrate genuine commitment to national reconciliation”.

Proof of life verification sought PARIS: The son of Myanmar’s deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi has asked France to help verify his mother is alive.

President Min Aung Hlaing last week ordered Suu Kyi to be moved to house arrest. But her son, Kim Aris, says he has still not heard from his mother. “I implore France to join my call so that we may obtain independently verified proof of life, and so that her fundamental rights are guaranteed: appropriate medical care, access to

TOUCHING BASE ... Japan Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi talking to soldiers taking part in the Balikatan military exercise involving US, Australian, Filipino and Japanese troops in Paoay, the Philippines. – AFPPIC

Vietnam launches fresh crackdown on online piracy HANOI: Vietnam will launch today a new crackdown on online piracy and counterfeit goods, aiming to boost detections by a fifth, the government said, after the United States revived the prospect of fresh tariffs. The US threat last week targets a “persistent failure” to tackle intellectual property violations. 20% this month, in Tuesday’s order published on the government portal. The Finance Ministry was told to “ensure that the number of cases of suspended customs clearance procedures and subsequent processing increases by at least 20% compared with May 2025”. branded Vietnam as the world’s worst offender for intellectual property infringements, warning it could open a tariff investigation.

country” in its annual report. That was the first such listing in 13 years in a category reserved for nations “with the most egregious IP related acts, policies, and practices with the greatest adverse impact on relevant US products”. Vietnam said it had made significant efforts to protect intellectual property and called for an “objective and balanced assessment” by Washington. – Reuters

Trump administration unveiled duties of 46% on imports from Vietnam and later cut to 20% in July 2025. They were reduced to 10% in February this year, after a US Supreme Court ruling struck down some of Trump’s worldwide tariffs, though his administration has pledged to restore tariffs using different legal tools. On April 30, the office of the US Trade Representative classified Vietnam as the only “priority foreign

Hung also set an end of May deadline for a 20% increase in cases tackling copyright violations by computer programs, movies, music, TV shows, online video games and for counterfeit goods sold at home. Hanoi launched a similar crackdown last year, shortly after the

They target imported shipments that yield clear evidence of counterfeit goods, the order said. The Trump administration has

Prime Minister Le Minh Hung told ministries to boost detection of copyright infringement by at least