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Young talents Uncovering Malaysia’s potential prodigies – P22 TUESDAY | MAY 12, 2026

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Report on — page 6

Lack of pads a public infrastructure failure that hits dignity, education: Women Of Will ‘Period poverty forcing women out of public spaces’

WEEKLY FOCUS MONDAY Technology and social media

TUESDAY Family and parenting

WEDNESDAY Fashion and beauty

THURSDAY Home and living

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p 23 Reassessing bone health as country moves towards becoming ageing nation

p 24 Teaching kids to fly high with colourful kites in sky

Import virus fears Returning Malaysians could be silent carriers for up to seven weeks, as experts warn medical gaps may let infections slip through. Report on h page 5

TRAFFIC TANGLE ... Experts cite high traffic and credential expirations as primary causes for authentication errors faced by MyJPJ users following MyDigital ID integration. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Report on page 4

I will serve until my last breath, says outgoing MACC chief Report on — page 2 Azam Baki rejects politics and business, pledging to remain vocal advocate for national interests.

New system moves beyond B40, M40 and T20 categories to focus on actual household needs: Minister Data-driven shift for more targeted RON95 subsidy

Report on — page 3

TUESDAY | MAY 12, 2026

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Ű THE SUN TEAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

I’ll work till I die, says outgoing MACC chief

PETALING JAYA:

Outgoing

Malaysian Commission

Anti-Corruption

(MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki (pic) has hinted that his commitment to the people and the country will not end when his contract officially concludes today. Speaking on MACC’s Kolar Hitam Bukan Sekadar Operasi podcast, which was streamed on YouTube yesterday, Azam said he had no intention of entering politics or the business world but would remain an engaged and vocal figure on matters concerning the nation. “I am the kind of man who will keep working until the day I am carried out in a coffin from a mosque. Yes, understand what I mean by that. “I will work and contribute what I can to the country and to the people because that gives me personal fulfilment.” Azam said he would not hesitate to speak up if he felt MACC’s actions warranted public feedback. “I won’t be angry at whatever MACC does but if the time comes and I feel I need to say something I will – constructively and positively. If my former colleagues or juniors at MACC need to tap into my experience or seek advice, I am

PUTRAJAYA: The National Unity Ministry has dismissed claims that link the proposed National Harmony Commission (NHC) to issues involving unregistered places of worship and the Interfaith Commission, calling them untrue, manipulative and misleading. Noting public reactions to ongoing engagement sessions led by the National Unity and Integration Department, the ministry said the NHC proposal is based on a preventive, conciliatory approach focused on early conflict prevention, mediation, reconciliation and strengthening social harmony. The ministry said the NHC would, if established, handle investigations into matters affecting national harmony, make recommendations to the government, facilitate formal mediation processes and publish public reports, subject to national security considerations. It said the proposal would not affect or alter the Federal Constitution, including the position of Islam, the Malay Rulers and the rights of Malays and Bumiputera. “The ministry strongly assures that any proposal related to the NHC will in no way touch, question or alter because they are corrupt. Question the authorities who shield criminals.” Using the e-waste task force (which he chaired) as an example, Azam recalled being bombarded with what he described as odd questions from the public and critics. “People asked where the containers went, why there were no charges in court, why only compounds were issued. This is the problem with society, and I have to correct it. These baseless accusations may stem from jealousy towards MACC. I want to remind them – that is a sin.” On the future direction of MACC, Azam urged it to concentrate its resources on large-scale financial leakages that cost the country hundreds of millions of ringgit,

families. A person who contributes nothing is no different from a walking corpse.” In a candid moment during the same podcast, Azam took aim at those who frequently question MACC’s enforcement decisions, calling them “fools” who need to be corrected in their thinking. He said such critics are quick to attack enforcement agencies but remain silent when it comes to those who actually commit corruption. “From day one we have never said something is not our job. We took responsibility and got it done. But the moment we act, people start asking why we got involved, why we did this and not that. I want to say to these fools – instead of questioning MACC, question the ones who do nothing. “Question those who fail to act

o Commitment to people and country will not end when contract officially expires today, says Azam Baki always ready.” When asked whether he would venture into politics or business, Azam was unequivocal. “Politics is out of the question – it is simply not my field. Business neither, as I am no businessman. What matters most is how we manage our lives – with wisdom, with purpose, and with value to society, to ourselves and to our

rather than being distracted by minor infractions. “Forget the small stuff. Focus on what we have planned – the big leakages, the major cases. Let other departments handle the small roadside matters. That is why you rarely see my officers making arrests over RM10 or RM20 bribes – it wastes time. We need to go after the hundreds of millions that have gone missing, the widespread fraud and the recovery of stolen assets.” He summed up MACC’s asset recovery mission plainly: “Simply put – what has been stolen from the people, we steal it back through the law and through enforcement.”

Ministry clarifies role of proposed harmony panel

the

fundamental

provisions

enshrined

in

the

Federal

Constitution.” It cited Articles 3, 121, 32, 38, 153 and 152 as among the protected provisions. The National Unity and Integration Department has been tasked with conducting engagement sessions involving NGOs, government agencies, experts and stakeholders to gather feedback. The ministry said the sessions are not for decision-making but to collect views before any proposal is submitted to the government, with all input recorded and reviewed professionally. It said consultations would continue in stages with MPs, political parties and state governments. It added that any Bill must undergo ministry evaluation, Attorney-General’s Chambers review, Regulatory Impact Analysis, Cabinet approval and tabling in the Dewan Rakyat. “If findings do not indicate need or suitability, the proposal may be discontinued,” it said, adding that the process remains open and inclusive. – Bernama stimulate sustainable economic growth and drive development centred on high-value innovation and technology, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim while chairing the first 2026 meeting of the National Science Council yesterday. He said the approach is crucial in strengthening strategic collaboration between the government, the private sector and research and development institutions. – Bernama

Awang Bemee (eighth from left) with the newly sworn-in senators. – BERNAMAPIC

Thirteen senators sworn in KUALA LUMPUR: Thirteen members of the Senate, including six new appointees, took their oath of office yesterday before Senate President Datuk Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah.

Services Act 2025 to strengthen the separation of powers. “The Senate also approved amendments to its standing orders on March 9, including the establishment of five new select committees covering public administration and governance; trade, industry and international relations; food security and the economy; social services, minorities, culture and indigenous affairs; and defence and security.” He said in today’s digital communication era, senators’ responsibilities extend beyond the chamber and include fostering public understanding of constitutional supremacy, parliamentary democracy and the rule of law. – Bernama

Md Ramli, Isaiah D. Jacob, Mohd Hasbie Muda and Abun Sui Anyitm. Abdul Nasir Idris was re-elected by the Kedah State Legislative Assembly. All six new appointments by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong are for a three-year term until May 10, 2029, while the reappointments run from March 20, 2026 to March 19, 2029. In his speech, Awang Bemee congratulated the 13 senators and urged them to make the Senate a platform for mature and constructive debate in representing the voices of the states and federal territories. “Malaysia’s Parliament is entering an important phase through the enforcement of the Parliamentary

Move to strengthen STI ecosystem KUALA LUMPUR: The Madani government will continue to prioritise efforts to strengthen the science, technology and innovation (STI) ecosystem to ensure that Malaysia can withstand financial challenges and uncertainties in the global economic supply chain, including the energy crisis triggered by conflicts in West Asia. The implementation of several mission-based initiatives was expected to optimise resources,

The six new appointees are acting Bentong Umno chief Datuk Seri Mohamad Zaini Salleh, Wanita MCA chief Datuk Wong You Fong, Sabah DAP chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, Johor DAP vice-chairman Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali, Sarawak DAP assistant secretary Larry Asap and R. Thiagarajah. Meanwhile, six senators were reappointed, namely Tan Sri Low Kian Chuan, Datuk Seri Prof Dr Awang Sariyan, Datuk Dr Mohd Hatta

TUESDAY | MAY 12, 2026

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New data-driven approach for fuel subsidy: Minister

EPF introduces i-Legasi, i-Emas, retirement goal calculator

KUALA LUMPUR: The Employees Provident Fund (EPF) yesterday introduced the i-Legasi, i Emas and the Retirement Goal Calculator as part of wider efforts to enhance retirement security and financial resilience across generations. The fund’s CEO Ahmad Zulqarnain Onn said retirement planning must go beyond savings accumulation to focus on adequacy and sustainability. “We are evolving to support our members not only in savings but also in making informed decisions to ensure that their savings last a lifetime and to leave a legacy for their loved ones,” he said in a statement yesterday. The i-Legasi facility enables members to transfer a portion of their EPF savings into the EPF accounts of immediate family members upon reaching full withdrawal age. Meanwhile, the current monthly payment method under the Age 55/60 Withdrawal has been rebranded as i-Emas. Rather than withdrawing their savings in full upon reaching age 55/60, members can opt for automated monthly payments via i-Emas, allowing their remaining balance to continue earning annual dividends. “Over 21,000 members have opted for monthly withdrawals upon reaching age 55/60.” He said i-Emas provides the flexibility to manage daily needs while protecting members against financial risks, Bernama reported. The Retirement Goal Calculator, available via the EPF i-Akaun app, is designed to help members plan their retirement more effectively. The calculator helps members estimate future savings needs based on lifestyle expectations and projected expenses.

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o ‘Mechanism to move beyond classifications such as B40, T20 and focus on actual household needs, spending patterns, fuel consumption’

PUTRAJAYA: The government is moving towards a more targeted and data-driven mechanism for RON95 fuel subsidy, with the Central Database Hub set to play a key role in determining who genuinely requires assistance, said Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir. He said the new approach would move beyond broad income classifications such as the B40, M40 and T20 categories, focusing instead on actual household needs, spending patterns and fuel consumption. Akmal said the biggest challenge is identifying a fair dividing line between Malaysians who should continue receiving subsidies and those who could be excluded under a more targeted system. “In our effort to channel subsidies to target groups, we do not want to create a significant shock to groups that may still need support or may not yet be fully prepared to transition away from such assistance,” he said after a letter of offer presentation ceremony between the government and Arm Ltd in Putrajaya yesterday. Akmal said the Central Database Hub would serve as a critical reference point in the rationalisation exercise, with the Economy Ministry prepared to provide relevant data and dimensions to support the evaluation process. PETALING JAYA: Resorts on Pulau Perhentian are burning about 10,000 litres of diesel a month per operator just to keep the lights on, and with no grid connection or fuel subsidy, operators say the rising costs are becoming unsustainable, particularly for smaller family-run businesses. Perhentian Island Tourism Operators Association chairman Rafizah Munir said diesel costs have surged by about 80%, pushing monthly operating expenses up by between RM22,800 and RM30,000 for an average resort operator. “A typical mid-sized resort consumes between 2,000 and 2,500 litres a week, with generators running around the clock as the islands have no connection to the national power grid,” she told theSun . Operators are currently paying commercial rates of RM5.12 per litre for diesel and RM3.87 per litre for petrol, compared with earlier prices of between RM2.84 and RM2.92 for diesel and around RM2.52 for petrol. “Currently, we are caught in a subsidy vacuum where we have no choice but to procure fuel at full unsubsidised commercial rates.” She said the association is seeking inclusion in the government’s targeted fuel subsidy mechanisms, including the Sistem Kawalan Diesel Bersubsidi, a regulated system that controls the distribution of subsidised diesel to eligible sectors. She added that access to the scheme could reduce operating costs by nearly RM30,000 a month for some operators. Rafizah said the request by the association is for operational survival Ű BY T.C. KHOR newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Anwar said several ministries and committees had been discussing the matter over the past few weeks but no final decision had been made. Addressing concerns that higher-income earners who contribute significantly in taxes could be unfairly affected, Akmal said the government recognised their contributions but targeted subsidies were necessary to ensure long-term fiscal sustainability. He said improving the country’s fiscal position would allow the government to better manage inflationary pressures while continuing to drive national development. Akmal also indicated that the government hopes to finalise the mechanism before the beginning of a new month. “Introducing such changes also involves systems, so it depends on the readiness of the system to ensure the screening process can be carried out effectively.” The government had said previously that fuel subsidies surged to an estimated RM7 billion in April alone, amid rising global oil prices and geopolitical tensions, intensifying pressure to reform the country’s long standing blanket subsidy system.

He said a clearer and more transparent threshold would help improve public acceptance of the policy while allowing for a fair appeals mechanism for those who believe they have been unfairly excluded. Akmal said the matter had already been discussed by the National Economic Action Council following the government’s push to improve the subsidy distribution system so that assistance reaches those who truly need it. He said there had been growing calls from academics and policy experts for subsidies to no longer be distributed on a blanket basis but determined according to actual needs and usage. “We have previously considered managing the quantity of supplies provided to each recipient, and the next step is to ensure that the subsidies genuinely benefit the intended target groups.” His remarks come after Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had said the government was still fine-tuning the proposed RON95 subsidy rationalisation mechanism, including whether it would involve the T20, T15 or other income groups.

Pulau Perhentian resorts struggle to keep lights on

rather than profit, warning that many smaller family-run resorts are struggling to absorb the increases. She said logistics costs have further compounded the pressure, with boat operators raising rates by more than 42%. “Our entire supply chain – everything from the fresh fish we serve to the clean linens in our rooms – relies on third-party boat operators. When the cost of moving a single barrel of supplies jumps from RM7 to RM10, it creates a ripple effect that touches every corner of the island’s economy.” She said despite the sharp increase in costs, most resorts have raised room rates by only 10% to 15%, absorbing the bulk of the burden themselves. “A 15% increase in room rates cannot possibly cover an 80% jump in energy costs. At the moment, operators are personally absorbing about three quarters of the blow. We are acting as a shield for our guests, but that shield is getting heavier by the day. We cannot hold it up forever without help.” A permanent national grid connection is only expected by 2030, leaving operators exposed to escalating fuel costs for years without meaningful relief. She said if direct fuel subsidies are not feasible, the government could consider zero-interest financing, grants or renewable energy initiatives to reduce long-term dependence on diesel. “The resorts are not isolated businesses. They are the economic backbone of the islands, supporting boat operators, local traders, workers and hundreds of families. “Protecting the sustainability of island tourism means protecting livelihoods and preserving one of Malaysia’s most iconic tourism destinations for future generations.”

Rafizah said the Perhentian Island Tourism Operators Association is seeking inclusion in the government’s targeted fuel subsidy mechanisms for the operational survival of resorts on the island.

TUESDAY | MAY 12, 2026

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MyJPJ access shift causes login disruptions

Users lament additional complication of MyDigital ID PETALING JAYA: The mandatory switch to MyDigital ID for MyJPJ access has drawn complaints from users who say the added authentication layer is complicating access to basic road transport services, with some urging the Road Transport Department and Transport Ministry to review the requirement. Several users said they faced repeated login failures, system errors and confusing prompts, with some saying they were unable to proceed despite having previously registered. Part-time basketball youth coach Imran Fahmi, 26, said he encountered multiple hiccups when attempting to log in, including messages stating his MyDigital ID was invalid or did not exist. Asked about reports of users being required to revoke and re-register their digital identity to regain access, he said: “Yes. It was ridiculous.” Banker Aaron Syad, 31, said the system is particularly inconvenient for older users who may struggle with repeated authentication steps. “The extra steps required to log in to MyJPJ are very troublesome. I think my parents will reach out to me every time they want to open MyJPJ after this.” Aaron, who had earlier registered for MyDigital ID to access the police MyBayar platform, questioned the reliance on a separate app for verification. “There are many other effective ways to protect against hackers, such as strong and unique passwords managed through a built-in password manager, combined with biometric login such as fingerprint or face ID.” Public relations associate Deena Azuar, 27, said her concern was the difficulty of quickly accessing her digital driving licence when needed. “It is troublesome because if I need to access my licence during roadblocks, I have to log in first. “Maybe it takes time for the app to run at full speed but it should already be running at full speed now. Just give me my licence!” Lawyer Iris Jane, 30, said she registered to access her driving licence but found the login process restrictive and difficult. “There are other ways to improve security, such as stronger password settings, longer passwords and limiting login attempts to between three and five times. “Please revisit the requirement as it may be a hassle for everyone to use.” Government pensioner Nik Ruzman Nik Idris, 65, said he had no issue using MyDigital ID but only registered as it was required for MyJPJ. “The government needs to explain the use and benefits of MyDigital ID. Users should also be allowed to choose the normal login method.” On May 3, MyDigital ID said its Single Sign-On integration with MyJPJ has been operating smoothly since enforcement began on May 1, with no technical disruptions reported. It said about seven million MyJPJ users have logged in via MyDigital ID while total registered users of the platform have reached 12 million. – By Faiz Ruzman dissolved earlier. “The state government is of the view that the current interpretation of the two-term limit is sufficient and does not require any amendment for now.“ Penang is the first state in Malaysia to officially limit the chief minister’s term to two terms, following an amendment to the state Constitution passed in November 2018 to strengthen political governance. – Bernama

o Public frustration with digital security systems often stems from low awareness of cyber risks and protections: Cyber group

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: The mandatory shift to MyDigital ID for MyJPJ access has triggered login disruptions for some users, with cybersecurity experts attributing the glitches to high traffic, expired credentials and incomplete authentication during the early phase of implementation. Malaysia Cyber Consumer Association president Sirajuddin Jalil said while the association has not received specific consumer complaints on MyDigital ID, issues such as failed logins, “Unknown Error 302”, session timeouts and unsuccessful registration attempts should not be dismissed. He said such disruptions are commonly seen when a major digital system change coincides with heavy user demand. “Perhaps it happened because there were too many users. The average registration is more than 100,000 a day. So, if we are talking about registration errors, maybe some people have experienced that. “We cannot deny it. But we have not received any specific consumer reports about problems with MyDigital ID.” The issue surfaced after MyDigital ID became the sole login method for MyJPJ from May 1, requiring users to authenticate their identity via the national digital identity platform before accessing Road Transport Department services. A local English daily recently reported that some users encountered login problems after the switch, including one case in which an account could not be accessed after prolonged inactivity. The user was reportedly advised by customer service to revoke the MyDigital ID and re-register through the app. Sirajuddin, who is also a National Cyber Security Agency committee member, emphasised that such cases could be linked to expired digital credentials as the system requires annual renewal. “MyDigital ID has to be renewed once a year. If customer service told him to cancel or revoke his MyDigital ID and register again, then yes, that is because when it has expired, that is what needs to be done.” On the “Unknown Error 302” message, he said it could point to a failed or incomplete authentication session during login.

Sirajuddin said cases in which users are advised to revoke and re-register their MyDigital ID via the app may be linked to expired digital credentials, as the system requires yearly renewal. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

“Any initiative involving digital security is meant to improve user and national security, whether for government digital services, private platforms or the digital safety of users.” He added that users often resort to weak passwords due to convenience, particularly during urgent transactions. He also said MyDigital ID strengthens protection by linking a digital key stored in the user’s device with biometric verification such as facial recognition or fingerprint authentication. “With digital ID, the key is in your phone. When you want to log in using MyDigital ID, the digital key is combined with your biometrics. “Usually, we have a password and then two-factor authentication. MyDigital ID is an advanced security method for this.”

He explained that the system may have attempted to redirect users during verification but the process could have broken down due to congestion, expired sessions or temporary technical interruptions. “Since that was the first day, I am not surprised if there were teething issues. People who are not used to logging in to MyJPJ may have also tried to test it at the same time, leading to high traffic.” Sirajuddin said public frustration with digital security systems often stems from low awareness of cyber risks and protections. “When the public does not understand the threat, any security effort made by cybersecurity agencies becomes difficult for them to accept.

No plans to amend Penang chief minister term limit to 10 years GEORGE TOWN: The Penang government has no plans to amend the chief minister’s term limit from two terms to 10 years. legislative assembly member as chief minister, provided that the individual commands majority confidence and has never held the position for two terms. must not exceed 10 years,“ he explained at the state legislative assembly sitting yesterday.

Chow was responding to a question from Lee Khai Loon (PH-Machang Bubuk) on whether the state government is prepared to amend the chief minister’s term limit to 10 years. He noted that Article 19, Clause 3 of the Penang Constitution also provides that the state legislative assembly shall run for five years from the date of its first sitting, unless

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the existing provisions in the state Constitution are clear regarding the term limit for the position. He referred to Article 7, Clause 2(a) of the Penang Constitution, which stipulates that the Yang Dipertua Negeri shall appoint a state

“If the state legislative assembly is dissolved before a term reaches its full five years, the term ‘two terms’ should be understood as the cumulative total of years served in the first and second terms. “That total may be less than 10 years but it

TUESDAY | MAY 12, 2026

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Risk of hantavirus still low but vigilance is key: Specialist

Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh said the alert should serve as a reminder not to take rodent exposure lightly, particularly in unhygienic environments. She said although hantavirus infections are rare, contact with rat droppings, urine, saliva, bites or carcasses could expose people to diseases already endemic in Malaysia. “The probability of getting leptospirosis is higher compared with hantavirus infection.” She said prevention efforts should begin at home, workplaces, food storage areas and rubbish disposal sites, where poor sanitation could encourage rodent infestations. “Clean your home, living area and workplace so that there is no opportunity for rats to breed. “Prevent rat breeding areas, such as rubbish piles, food areas and storage places, especially in residential areas or workplaces.” She also warned against dry sweeping rat droppings, saying contaminated particles could become airborne and inhaled. “Wear a mask, goggles and gloves when cleaning rat droppings, urine, carcasses or saliva. “If there is contact, quickly wash your hands or the exposed area with soap and water. Do not rub your eyes or mouth. “Clean rat droppings by applying bleach for between five and 10 minutes before removing them.” On concerns involving pets, Sharifa said cats do not transmit hantavirus to humans, although rodent carcasses brought indoors should be handled cautiously. “Cats do not transmit hantavirus to humans. What people need to be careful about is if rat carcasses are brought into the house.” Global concern over hantavirus intensified after the World Health Organisation was notified on May 2 of a severe respiratory illness cluster aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship. By May 8, eight cases had been reported, including six confirmed infections, two probable cases and three deaths. The vessel carried 147 passengers and crew while 34 passengers had already disembarked, triggering international contact tracing efforts. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said on Sunday Malaysia remains on full alert despite recording no hantavirus cases involving Malaysians.

o Current concerns tied mainly to imported exposure rather than community spread

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Malaysians exposed to hantavirus overseas may unknowingly carry the infection for weeks before symptoms appear, prompting health experts to warn that missed travel history could allow imported cases to slip through despite no local infections being reported so far. Malaysia’s immediate risk remains low but vigilance is critical as the main threat involves travellers arriving from affected regions, said Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre infectious disease specialist Assoc Prof Dr Petrick @ Ramesh K. Periyasamy. “The primary clinical concern is imported cases via travellers arriving from high-risk regions,” he noted. He said doctors could miss suspected cases if assessments focused only on visible symptoms without probing recent travel, contact with rodent-contaminated environments or cruise exposure. “The incubation period is typically between one and seven weeks, with a median of between 14 and 17 days.” He also said while hantaviruses are traditionally spread through exposure to aerosolised rodent urine, droppings or saliva, the strain linked to the recent international cluster warrants greater concern because of its rare ability to spread between humans. Petrick said the virus attacks the lining of blood vessels, potentially triggering fluid leakage that could lead to severe lung or kidney complications in critical cases. Nevertheless, he stressed that the risk of local transmission remains controlled as current concerns are tied mainly to imported exposure rather than community spread. Meanwhile, university public health expert and School of Liberal Studies dean Prof Dr

Teresa Kok’s former special assistant claims trial in corruption case KUALA LUMPUR: A former special assistant to Seputeh MP Teresa Kok was charged in the Sessions Court here yesterday with two counts involving fraud and the acceptance of a RM500,000 bribe linked to the procurement of smart boards in 2024. Edmund Teoh, 40, pleaded not guilty after the charges were read out before Sessions Judge Suzana Hussin. On the first count, Teoh is accused of deceiving Kok, 62, into believing that only two schools in the Seputeh parliamentary constituency had applied for contributions under the Interactive Smart Board initiative, despite allegedly knowing that 16 schools had submitted applications. The alleged deception is said to have induced Kok to approve the application through the MyKhas system under the Seputeh Parliament People-Friendly Project, consent she would not have granted had she not been deceived. Teoh is accused of committing the offence at the Seputeh MP Service Centre office in Sri Desa Entrepreneurs Park, Jalan 1/116B, off Jalan Kuchai Lama here in June 2024. The charge is framed under Section 417 of the Penal Code and carries up to five years’ jail, a fine, or both upon conviction. For the second charge, Teoh is alleged to have received a RM500,000 cash bribe from a 37-year-old man at the parking area of a petrol station in Jalan Kuchai Maju, Kuchai Lama on Aug 12, 2024. The bribe was allegedly inducement to assist the man in securing donations for the supply of interactive smart boards and related equipment to 16 schools within the parliamentary constituency through TMT IT Solutions, a company owned by the man’s wife. The charge is brought under Section 16(a)(A) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Act 2009 and is punishable under Section 24(1) of the same Act, which provides for up to 20 years’ jail and a minimum fine of five times the value of the bribe or RM10,000, whichever is higher, upon conviction. DPP Julaila Jamaludin offered bail at RM150,000 in one surety, with additional conditions requiring Teoh to surrender his passport to the court. She also requested that Teoh report to the MACC office nearest to his residence once a month and refrain from interfering with prosecution witnesses, either directly or through third parties. Defence counsel M.N. Lo appealed for a lower bail amount, saying his client earns between RM3,000 and RM4,000 a month while also supporting a school-going child. “My client has cooperated fully throughout the investigation and has reported to the MACC office eight times without fail.” Suzana set bail at RM60,000 in one surety, with the additional conditions requested by the prosecution, and fixed July 3 for mention. – Bernama

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Female hygiene pads, dignity and public access

Bet on memories bags millions PETALING JAYA: A 52-year-old property manager from Selangor has struck gold, winning nearly RM15 million in the Toto 4D Jackpot 1 after staking on the registration numbers of his old cars. STM Lottery Sdn Bhd said the man clinched the prize in the May 6 draw after placing a RM6 System 3 bet on the numbers “9186” and “4828”, which he said carried deep sentimental value. “I have been betting on these numbers for over 10 years because they remind me of my old cars and the memories attached to them. I never expected both numbers would strike in the same draw,” he said. He walked away with RM14,818,901.35 in prize money, along with a System Play bonus of RM336, which he collected at the STM Lottery head office. The winner admitted he had often come across media reports of Toto Jackpot winners and once questioned their authenticity, particularly during festive periods. “Whenever I read about jackpot winners, I used to ask myself whether these stories were really true. Now that I have personally experienced it, I can say the winning stories are indeed real.” He plans to reward himself with a branded car and invest part of his winnings in property, while managing the windfall prudently for long-term financial security. STM Lottery said the total jackpot for the May 6 draw stood at RM16.8 million, with the remaining RM1,975,853.50 won by a Kuala Lumpur player through the i System method. The winning numbers were “5396”, “9186” or “4828”. Ű BY THE SUN TEAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: The lack of access to basic menstrual hygiene products is quietly forcing women and girls out of classrooms, workplaces and public spaces in Malaysia, exposing what advocates describe as a deeply overlooked public inequality issue. Women Of Will (WOW) chief operating officer Zulikhwan Ayub said sanitary products should be recognised as essential public infrastructure – no differently from toilet paper or soap in public toilets – as menstrual poverty continues to affect the dignity, mobility and participation of women and girls in daily life. Speaking on menstrual poverty and accessibility, Zulikhwan said menstruation is a basic human reality and the absence of access to menstrual products can lead to immediate physical, emotional and social consequences. “If we accept that toilets are public infrastructure because they meet a basic human need, then menstrual products logically sit in the same category,” he said. He explained that inconsistent access to sanitary products affects more than hygiene, pointing out that it also impacts dignity, mobility, o Women’s group calls for menstrual products to be treated as essential infrastructure amid concerns over accessibility and stigma Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Zulikhwan said sanitary products should be treated no differently from toilet paper or soap in public toilets. – AI GENERATED IMAGE BY SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN

single-pad access in public spaces, he described such measures as helpful but insufficient on their own. He said vending machines and public access points can offer immediate relief and reduce stress for those caught unprepared, but warned that deeper structural issues must also be addressed. “If someone cannot afford products regularly, a vending machine in a public toilet doesn’t solve their core problem. “The right approach is layered – quick wins like public access points, combined with longer-term structural solutions such as subsidies, education in schools and normalising the conversation.” He also urged the government to incorporate menstrual health education into school curricula for both girls and boys to combat stigma from an early age.

“That has long-term implications on education and confidence.” He added that low-income urban communities often face financial pressures where menstrual products are deprioritised against essentials such as food and rent, while rural communities struggle with limited product availability, lack of awareness and cultural taboos. WOW, he said, has attempted to address the stigma through free product distribution initiatives and awareness campaigns. He said stigma continues to slow progress at multiple levels, including policy urgency, corporate participation and community discussions. To improve accessibility nationwide, he called for several policy reforms at both local council and federal government levels. On proposals to install sanitary pad vending machines or provide

education

and

participation

in society. “From my experience working with women across different communities, what stands out is that the issue is not just about hygiene, but also dignity and participation. “When access is inconsistent, it quietly excludes women and girls from public life,” he said. Zulikhwan said menstrual poverty in Malaysia remains more serious than many realise, largely because it is underreported and hidden behind stigma. According to him, the issue cuts across students, low-income urban families and rural populations, although the challenges faced by each group differ. He said girls from B40 households are among the most visibly affected, with some skipping school during menstruation because they lack access to sanitary products.

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Philippines VP faces Senate trial MANILA: Philippine lawmakers overwhelmingly voted to impeach Vice-President Sara Duterte yesterday, setting the stage for a trial in the Senate that could kill off her hopes for a presidential run in 2028. Duterte was accused in an impeachment complaint of misusing public funds, accumulating unexplained wealth and threatening the lives of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, his wife and the former House speaker. The complaint by activists, religious groups and lawyers was backed yesterday by 255 lawmakers, easily passing the required threshold of one-third of house seats, with 26 voting against and nine abstentions. With Marcos limited by the constitution to a single term in office, Duterte, 47, has been the clear favourite to succeed him in 2028, but the impeachment could derail her bid. The Senate must now convene a trial with its members as jurors and if convicted, she faces removal from office and a ban from politics. “We are fully prepared to defend the Vice President before the Senate sitting as an impeachment court, where it is incumbent upon the prosecution to discharge the burden of proof,” Duterte’s legal team said in a statement. The impeachment is the latest in a series of setbacks for the influential Duterte family, with the vice-president feeling heat from her bitter feud with Marcos and her father Rodrigo Duterte awaiting trial at the International Criminal Court over a war on drugs that killed thousands of people during his 2016-2022 presidency. The House had also voted to impeach the vice-president last year, but that was later struck down by the Supreme Court. But in what could be a major boost for Duterte, as the lower house prepared to vote yesterday, drama unfolded in the Senate, where a motion was passed to remove its president and replace him with Alan Peter Cayetano, a staunch loyalist of her family. The change in Senate leadership means Cayetano, a former running mate of Duterte’s father, would be the presiding judge in her impeachment trial. – Reuters Myanmar pushes for steady engagement YANGON: Myanmar said yesterday that “discriminatory measures” are shutting it out of Asean after a summit last week saw the organisation continue to blacklist its leadership. Asean has shunned Myanmar from summits since the military in 2021 deposed the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. After five years of martial rule, the government held a restricted election excluding Suu Kyi’s party that last month resulted in military chief Min Aung Hlaing taking over as civilian president. President Ferdinand Marcos said last week there had not been “any progress in Myanmar”. Myanmar’s Foreign Ministry said that on the contrary, “positive developments taking place in Myanmar have been well recognised by the majority of Asean member states”. “However, it is observed that a few member states continue to maintain restrictions, discriminatory measures and the exclusion of the Myanmar Government from equal representation.” Asean is suffering from a fraying consensus over Myanmar, analysts say, with frustration growing over a lack of progress on the bloc’s peace plan to end the nation’s civil war. Myanmar’s Foreign Ministry said “non constructive engagement with the new government of Myanmar” would “disregard the genuine will of the Myanmar people, who exercised their democratic rights”. “Over the past five years Myanmar has exercised patience,” it said. The ministry accused some nations of “interfering in Myanmar’s internal affairs through criticism and pressure”. – AFP

Thaksin supporters gather around his car as he leaves prison. – AFPPIC

Thaksin freed from prison BANGKOK: Thailand’s former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra was released early from prison yesterday, raising the prospect of a return to the spotlight for the political heavyweight. o Rivals watch next move Shinawatra family producing four prime ministers and drawing widespread support from the rural population. But Pheu Thai had its worst election result ever in February, slipping to third place and raising questions about the future of Thaksin’s dynasty.

Yet Pheu Thai’s inclusion in the ruling coalition of conservative Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has left open the possibility of a political comeback. For his die-hard supporters, Thaksin’s release “will strengthen Pheu Thai in the short term because people will feel that the Pheu Thai owner is back”, said political science lecturer Wanwichit Boonprong. But Thaksin’s “old enemies, the conservatives”, will rally around Anutin, who “has what Thaksin does not have – the trust of the elites”, Wanwichit said. The anti-Thaksin conservatives “will unite and focus on Thaksin’s next move – and whether he will stay away from politics”. The Corrections Department announced Thaksin’s parole last month, citing his age and the fact that he had less than a year left to serve as reasons for early release. Thaksin was jailed after the Supreme Court ruled last year that he improperly served a 2023 sentence in a hospital suite rather than a prison cell. He was elected prime minister in 2001 and again in 2005, and took himself into exile after his second term was cut short by a military coup. After returning to Thailand in August 2023, he was sentenced to eight years for corruption and abuse of power. But, rather than prison, he was whisked to a private room in hospital on health grounds, his sentence was reduced to one year by royal pardon, and he was freed as part of an early release scheme for elderly prisoners. The timing of his return and his medical transfer, which coincided with Pheu Thai forming a new government, fuelled public suspicion of a backroom deal and allegations of special treatment. The Supreme Court ruled in September

The 76-year-old telecoms billionaire served eight months of a one-year prison sentence for corruption and will be required to wear an electronic monitor during his four-month probation period. Thaksin hugged family members outside the Bangkok jail where several hundred supporters wearing their signature red shirts had gathered, some shouting “we love Thaksin”. Thaksin “may stay away for a couple months, but he will not leave politics”, said 70 year-old Janthana Chaidej who took a day off work as a restaurant cook to show his support. Thaksin, who will be on probation until September, has other pending criminal cases against him, which could dissuade him from making rousing speeches and risking further prosecution, analysts say. “I went into hibernation for eight months,” Thaksin told reporters from a rear window of his car outside his home in the capital, adding that he felt “relief” after his release. He was fitted with an electronic monitor at a probation office and will not be allowed to travel outside of the capital without permission, the Corrections Department said in a statement. While leaving the office, Thaksin appeared to joke with journalists about his memory, saying, “I do not remember anything. I have Alzheimer’s already.” Thaksin’s political machine has for two decades been a key rival of Thailand’s pro military, pro-royalty elite, who view his populist brand as a threat to the traditional social order. His Pheu Thai party and its earlier iterations have been the country’s most successful political outfit of the 21st century, with the

Thaksin steps out of Klong Prem Central Prison. – REUTERSPIC that Thaksin had not been suffering from a critical health condition and his time spent in hospital could not count as time served, landing him in prison to serve his one-year term. Thaksin was one of more than 850 prisoners who were approved for early release. His daughter, former prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, told reporters on Thursday after meeting with Thaksin in prison that they had “not discussed anything about politics” and only spoken about family. Thaksin’s nephew Yodchanan Wongsawat, who became Pheu Thai’s standard-bearer ahead of the February election, was made minister of higher education in Anutin’s Cabinet. – AFP

TUESDAY | MAY 12, 2026

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Africa-France summit aims to clinch new deals

AUSTRALIA TO QUARANTINE EVACUEES CANBERRA: Australians repatriated from the cruise ship MV Hondius will undergo quarantine at a facility in Perth for at least three weeks, Health Minister Mark Butler said yesterday, confirming that none had shown symptoms. Four Australian citizens and one permanent resident are among six departing Tenerife in Spain’s Canary Islands on a government-chartered flight to Perth, the state capital of Western Australia, with medical staff monitoring en route. A New Zealand citizen is included. The group will be transferred to the Bullsbrook quarantine facility. Butler noted that this covers part of hantavirus’s incubation period of up to 42 days. Further advice from the chief health officers will determine whether the quarantine period will be extended beyond three weeks. – Bernama U.S. PASSENGER TESTS MILDLY POSITIVE WASHINGTON: One of 17 American passengers being repatriated from a cruise ship has tested mildly positive for the Andes virus, the US Health Department said on Sunday. “One passenger has mild symptoms and another passenger tested mildly PCR positive for the Andes virus,” the department said. Both passengers are travelling in the plane’s biocontainment units “out of an abundance of caution”, it said. The US passengers evacuated from the Canary Islands, where the ship made a stop, will be taken to a centre in the rural state of Nebraska. The person with mild symptoms will be taken to a second centre. Upon arrival, “each person will undergo clinical assessment and receive appropriate care and support based on their condition”. – AFP FRENCH WOMAN’S CONDITION WORSENS PARIS: A French passenger from the MV Hondius has tested positive for the hantavirus and her condition is deteriorating, French Health Minister Stephanie Rist said yesterday. She was among five French people who were on the ship. The four other passengers tested negative but will be re-tested, she told France Inter radio, adding that so far French authorities have traced 22 contact cases. “What is key, is to act at the start and break the virus transmission chains. This is what we are doing with the prime minister, notably with a decree that will allow us to strengthen isolation measures for contact cases and to protect the population,” she said. Asked if France had enough masks and tests to cope with a potential crisis, Rist said: “Yes, France is ready.” – Reuters BRITISH MAN ‘CLINICALLY IMPROVING’ JOHANNESBURG: A British man who was admitted to a hospital in Johannesburg after falling ill aboard a luxury cruise ship is “clinically improving”, a South African Health Ministry spokesperson said yesterday. “The British patient is clinically improving but still ill,” the spokesperson Foster Mohale said. “This means his condition is improving, gradually so.” No vaccines or specific treatments exist for hantavirus, which is a known but rare illness that usually spreads among rodents. Health officials have insisted that the risk to global public health is low and dismissed comparisons to the Covid-19 pandemic. – Reuters

BR I E F S

o Kenya wants outcomes discussed at G7

NAIROBI: French President Emmanuel Macron and more than 30 African leaders kicked off a summit in Kenya yesterday aimed at diversifying Paris’ partnerships on the continent and clinching new investment deals. The Africa Forward Summit is the first France has organised in an English-speaking nation since it began holding such events in the 1970s and follows setbacks in former colonies in West Africa that have moved to reduce French influence. The convention opened with a meeting of business executives attended by Macron and Kenyan President William Ruto at the University of Nairobi. In addition to more than 30 African presidents, deputy presidents and prime ministers, attendees included executives from leading French firms such as TotalEnergies and Orange and Africa’s richest man, the Nigerian industrialist Aliko Dangote. During a state visit on Sunday, Macron announced that French shipping group CMA CGM planned to invest €700 million (RM3.2 billion) to modernise a terminal at the Kenyan port of Mombasa. Kenya hopes to use the summit to attract French investors looking to take advantage of the pan-African free trade area, which is being rolled out across the continent. Ruto also wants to advance talks on making the global financial system fairer to heavily indebted African countries, a campaign France has pledged to support. The Kenyan president will attend the G7 summit next month in Evian-les-Bains at the invitation of France, which holds the group’s rotating presidency. “We believe it’s a good thing if critical outcomes of this meeting ... can also be mainstreamed as critical agenda items by the Portrait of a Young Girl , by Dutch artist Toon Kelder, had likely been hanging for decades in the home of descendants of Hendrik Seyffardt, Brand said, describing it as “the most bizarre case of my entire career”. The case has drawn parallels to a find that made headlines last year, when an 18th-century Nazi-looted painting, also from the collection of late Jewish art dealer Jacques Goudstikker, featured in a property ad in Argentina. In the Dutch case, Brand said he was approached by a man who had recently uncovered two horrifying secrets: he was a descendant of Seyffardt, and his family had displayed the looted art for years. This family member, who wished to remain anonymous, told Brand he saw the painting hanging in the hallway of the granddaughter of Seyffardt. According to Brand, Seyffardt’s granddaughter told the family member the painting was “Jewish looted art, stolen from Goudstikker. It is unsellable. Don’t tell anyone”. But the family member wanted the story to go public, so contacted Brand, who has made a

Macron takes the floor at Taifa Hall, University of Nairobi. – REUTERSPIC

Diomaye Faye said French bases were incompatible with the country’s sovereignty. At a news conference with Ruto on Sunday, Macron downplayed the absence of some leaders at the summit. He noted that several West African heads of state, including Faye, would be there and said France was still seeking connections with people from those countries. “We can disagree with some of these governments ... but we never disagree with people,” he said. – Reuters

G7,” said Kenyan Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi. France has traditionally had its closest African ties in its former colonies in the west and centre of the continent but is confronting rising anti French sentiment. Coups since 2020 in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger brought to power military officers who expelled French troops. France also handed over control of its last major military facility in Senegal last July after Senegalese President Bassirou

Nazi-looted portrait found in Dutch home THE HAGUE: An artwork plundered by the Nazis from the world-famous Goudstikker collection has surfaced in the family of an SS collaborator in the Netherlands, Dutch art detective Arthur Brand said yesterday. name for himself cracking high-profile cases of stolen art. This family member told De Telegraaf daily: “I feel ashamed. The painting should be returned to the heirs of Goudstikker.”

The grandmother, quoted by the Dutch daily, said the family was discussing whether the painting should be returned to the Goudstikker heirs, and denied knowing it was looted. “I received it from my mother. Now that you confront me like this, I understand that Goudstikker’s heirs want the painting back. I didn’t know that,” she was quoted as saying. Brand launched his own investigation. The painting has a Goudstikker label on the back and the number 92 carved into the frame. He searched the archives of an auction in 1940 where part of the looted Goudstikker collection went under the hammer and found item number 92: Portrait of a Young Girl by Toon Kelder. Lawyers for the Goudstikker heirs confirmed to Brand that this painting was looted. The family member who contacted Brand also wants the painting returned to the Goudstikker heirs, but the police are powerless as the theft has passed the statute of limitations. The Dutch Restitution Committee, which advises on looted Nazi art, is also hamstrung as it cannot compel private individuals to return artworks. – AFP

This handout photograph of the portrait was released by Brand yesterday. – AFPPIC