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Malaysia this September

‘Rethink subsidy model’ Economist urges flexible voucher system, says income bands fail to reflect real household pressures.

Calls are growing for targeted aid mechanisms that protect vulnerable households without distorting fuel prices or creating excessive bureaucracy. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

Report on page 2

Breaking barriers for orang asli women Report on — page 4 They need stronger support systems such as childcare, housing and grants to access opportunities: NGO

Analysts observe comeback may strengthen urban appeal of the party ahead of elections. Start of Khairy Jamaluddin’s second Umno chapter

Report on — page 5

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Ditch income-based aid for vouchers, govt urged

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia should abandon rigid income-based subsidy models and move towards a flexible purpose-voucher system that channels aid directly to households based on actual needs, an economist said, warning that the current approach risks creating distortions, inefficiencies and unfair outcomes. Centre for Market Education (CME) chief executive officer Dr Carmelo Ferlito said blanket classifications based largely on income bands fail to capture the real financial pressures faced by many households, particularly as the government prepares to roll out more targeted RON95 fuel subsidies. He said subsidy reforms must focus on protecting vulnerable groups without distorting market prices or creating excessive bureaucracy. “Malaysia needs a subsidy system that protects those who genuinely need help without undermining price signals. “The problem is not the desire to support people. The problem is designing a support mechanism that is too rigid, too bureaucratic and too detached from the real circumstances of households,” he said. Under CME’s proposal, subsidised goods such as fuel would continue to be sold at a single market price, while aid would instead be distributed directly to eligible recipients through vouchers earmarked for essential

ultimately be guided by three principles: maintaining a single market price, delivering targeted aid through purpose-vouchers and ensuring support is based on actual household needs rather than rigid classifications. “The goal should not be to suppress prices. “The goal should be to protect vulnerable households while allowing prices to continue performing their essential role: coordinating decisions, revealing scarcity and guiding responsible consumption,” he said. The proposal comes as the government refines its income classification framework, including categories such as T5, T10, T15 and T20, ahead of the planned implementation of more targeted petrol subsidies amid mounting fiscal pressures. Officials are currently reviewing appropriate income cut-off points as part of broader efforts to align subsidy rationalisation measures with household realities and long term fiscal sustainability. targeted vouchers to eligible groups, for example RM200 or RM400 worth of fuel assistance per month, instead of subsidising the pump price,” she said. Consumers, she added, would need to adapt to market-based fuel prices, with assistance provided separately through vouchers. Public acceptance will be critical, as many Malaysians remain accustomed to blanket subsidies. The proposal comes as the government refines its income classification framework, including detailed breakdowns of high income groups such as T5, T10, T15 and T20. Officials are reviewing where appropriate income cut-off lines should be set, as part of broader efforts to align subsidy rationalisation with household needs and fiscal sustainability. Ida emphasised that while vouchers could make subsidies more equitable, implementation must ensure inclusivity. “The system must capture vulnerable groups such as the elderly, persons with disabilities, and those in remote areas to avoid exclusion,” she said. She concluded that the reform’s success will depend on both robust data management and public trust. “Targeted vouchers can work, but Malaysians must be convinced that the system is fair, transparent and truly meets household needs,” she added.

may face vastly different living costs and financial obligations. “For example, one person earning RM8,000 may work from home and have limited transport costs, while another person earning the same income may travel long distances every day or support several dependents. “Treating these two individuals in the same way because their income is similar misses the point. Need is not captured by income alone,” he said. Ferlito also described blanket subsidies as fiscally costly and economically distortive, saying a purpose-voucher model would offer greater transparency and more precise targeting. “General subsidies are fiscally expensive, socially imprecise and economically distortive. “A purpose-voucher system is not perfect, but it is a better institutional compromise. “It allows the government to help people without pretending that prices can be politically engineered without consequences.” He said subsidy reforms should PETALING JAYA: A voucher-based subsidy model could help Malaysia deliver more effective and targeted assistance, but its success depends heavily on the accuracy of government data, according to Putra Business School economist Assoc Prof Ida Md Yasin. She said the idea is positive as it allows support to be directed based on actual needs – such as transport or essential consumption – rather than suppressing market prices. However, she cautioned that the system’s effectiveness hinges on the quality of household data collected. “Both approaches, whether vouchers or income categories like B40, M40 and T20, ultimately rely on databases capturing income, expenditure, dependents and other household information. The effectiveness depends on how accurate and comprehensive the data is,” she explained. Ida noted that income alone is no longer sufficient to determine eligibility, as households with similar earnings may face very different financial obligations depending on family size, dependents and living conditions. She argued that a purpose voucher system could reduce leakage and strengthen fiscal sustainability by improving efficiency in subsidy distribution. Still, she highlighted gaps in ensuring vulnerable groups are properly captured in government databases.

o Subsidy reforms must protect vulnerable without distorting market prices, says expert

flow more efficiently to those who value it most. “If someone is eligible for assistance but does not need the full amount, the ability to sell or transfer the voucher allows the support to move towards those who value it more. “This is not a weakness of the system; it is precisely how flexibility can improve targeting. The market can do a better job than a centralised approach,” he said. Ferlito said the vouchers should be digitally traceable and purpose specific, with safeguards against fraud, hoarding and abuse, while retaining enough flexibility to avoid becoming another form of rigid price control. He argued that income alone is an unreliable benchmark for determining eligibility for assistance, as households with similar earnings

needs including fuel, food and transport. Ferlito said maintaining one market-based price would improve transparency, reduce confusion at the point of sale and minimise opportunities for abuse and manipulation. “The market price should remain one, while support should be individualised. “Once we start creating different prices for different people, we create administrative complexity, distortions and incentives for manipulation,” he said. He also proposed allowing purpose-vouchers to be traded within a regulated framework, enabling recipients who do not fully require the aid to transfer or sell vouchers to others with greater need. According to Ferlito, such flexibility would allow assistance to

Subsidy coupons could sharpen targeting efforts, says economist Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com “Under such a system, the government would provide

LAND LOSS ... Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh points at a flood reservoir area in Jinjang where land lots have been alienated to developers, during a flood mitigation press conference at Kuala Lumpur City Hall yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC Anwar congratulates Vijay on Tamil Nadu win

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has extended his warmest congratulations to his friend and South Indian cinema icon Chandrasekaran Joseph Vijay on his election as Tamil Nadu chief minister. Anwar, in his Facebook post yesterday, said that for many years, fans had watched Vijay defeat corrupt politicians and various villains within the span of a three hour film, often punctuated by a short interval. “The people of Tamil Nadu have now entrusted Vijay with a responsibility far greater than any role performed on screen.

Vijay, who was sworn in as chief minister on Sunday, has expressed appreciation to Anwar for extending his congratulations, while reaffirming his commitment to strengthening ties between Tamil Nadu and Malaysia. In a statement shared on social media, Vijay said he was “deeply honoured” by the warm wishes conveyed by Anwar and thanked the Malaysian premier for his “gracious gesture”. He also pledged to foster greater cooperation and further strengthen the longstanding friendship and cultural bonds between Tamil Nadu and Malaysia.

“ Oru Viral Puratchi – the ‘one finger revolution’ – is now on the cusp of creating history,” he said. Anwar also said that Malaysia and Tamil Nadu share deep historical, cultural and people-to-people ties across generations. “I look forward to working closely with Chief Minister Vijay in the years ahead,” he said. Vijay, 52, who recently transitioned from a prolific acting career to full-time politics, led his party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam to a significant victory in the state elections, following in the footsteps of several legendary film figures in Tamil Nadu’s political history.

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Economists: Fuel subsidy bill unsustainable o ‘Govt caught between maintaining public support and managing debt, as costs to subsidise have surged fourfold due to external price shocks’

Govt to continue rolling out measures to ease cost pressures PETALING JAYA: The government will continue rolling out economic interventions in a cautious, targeted and temporary manner as Malaysia faces mounting global cost pressures while striving to preserve domestic stability. Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said although overall food prices remain largely stable, early signs of increases are beginning to emerge across several key items, raising concerns over the growing burden on households. “For the period from May 4-6, selected food prices recorded movements ranging from a 2% decline to a 6.7% increase compared with the previous week,” he said during the weekly Global Crisis Briefing. He said beef prices fell 1.4% to RM35.88 per kg from RM36.40 previously, while chicken prices remained stable at between RM9.50 and RM9.51 per kg. However, several essential items registered increases: mackerel rose 3.9% to RM17.42 per kg, white prawns went up 1.2% to RM32.11 per kg, mustard greens climbed 4% to RM7.23 per kg and fresh coconut milk surged 6.7% to RM16.88 per kg. “The prime minister and members of the National Geo-Economic Command Centre have expressed concern that some groups, especially in rural communities, may already be feeling the pressure of rising daily costs.” He said the chief secretary to the government has been tasked with coordinating inter ministerial efforts to ensure that assistance reaches vulnerable groups swiftly and effectively. Akmal also pointed out to changing consumption patterns among Malaysians as households increasingly adopt cost-saving measures. “Rail ridership increased to 1,085,580 passengers daily in April 2026, up 7.6% from March, while daily bus ridership rose 10.3% to 227,448 passengers. Electricity demand edged up 1.4% to 20,097 megawatts. “These shifts reflect more cost-efficient behaviour among households, helping to ease financial pressures.” Akmal said Mara had implemented a 20% rental reduction involving more than 7,135 premises nationwide while Kuala Lumpur City Hall introduced a 50% rental cut for selected traders until 2027, benefiting over 10,000 operators. He also announced the launch of a new global supply crisis dashboard developed in collaboration with the Statistics Department, covering indicators related to energy, commodities and cost of living. The platform will be made publicly accessible on May 15. Citing the World Bank’s warning on intensifying global economic pressures, Akmal stressed that Malaysia’s policy response would remain measured and disciplined. – BY THE SUN TEAM must be factored into any income classification. Umno secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki similarly cautioned against rigid income benchmarks, adding that households earning about RM13,000 a month could still face lower-income realities depending on family size and urban living costs. On Monday, Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the government was still refining the income thresholds and implementation mechanism for targeted subsidies to avoid sudden economic shocks while ensuring that assistance reaches the intended groups. Officials are currently reviewing eligibility cut offs involving categories such as T5, T10, T15 and T20 as part of preparations for the phased rollout of targeted RON95 subsidies amid efforts to balance fiscal consolidation with mounting cost of-living pressures. On the use of Padu, Akmal said the assessment framework would extend beyond income levels alone, with eligibility determined using additional socioeconomic considerations.

litres may not save much, as most consumers already use less than 100 litres. “The RM7 billion monthly cost is unsustainable.” Williams proposed a tiered model similar to electricity tariffs, where subsidies decrease as consumption rises. He said, for example the first 100 litres should be fully subsidised, the next 50 litres at 50% subsidy, the following 50 litres at 25%, and no subsidy beyond 200 litres. “This encourages economising, and affects the rich the most.” He cautioned that quotas below 100 litres could spark backlash, stressing that the most effective system must balance fiscal savings with minimal disruption. Finance Deputy Minister Liew Chin Tong had earlier said the government’s top priority is to ensure that the country continues to have sufficient fuel supply for as long as possible. “As a society, we must ensure that we have petrol supply for the longest of time, and at some point we should build consensus to support the effort to reduce fuel consumption,” he said.

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

“When income stays the same but spending rises, it leads to debt. The question is who pays later? Most likely the current or future generation.” She added that Malaysia has been working to reduce its debt-to-GDP ratio after the Covid 19 pandemic, and warned that cutting fuel quotas is only a short-term fix. She said Malaysia should gradually reduce subsidies and invest more in renewable energy in the long term while ensuring that vulnerable groups are supported through broader energy diversification. Economist Prof Geoffrey Williams agreed that reducing the RON95 quota could lower costs, but argued that a tiered pricing system would be more effective. He said lowering the monthly quota to 150

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s fuel subsidy bill has reached unsustainable levels amid rising global oil prices, with economists cautioning that the current system places a heavy strain on national finances and must be reformed. Putra Business School economist Assoc Prof Ida Md Yasin said the government is caught between sustaining public support and managing debt, as subsidy costs have surged fourfold due to external price shocks. “The issue is not about reducing subsidies but the rising cost of maintaining them.” Ida said while government revenue remains largely unchanged, expenditure has risen sharply leading to deficits and borrowing.

‘Cut T20 Budi95 subsidies at risk of fresh inflation, recession’ Liew said the government’s top priority is to ensure that the country continues to have sufficient fuel supply for as long as possible. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

Ű BY THE SUN TEAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

expenses. “The government cannot throw around labels like T20, T15, T10 or T5 and expect people not to panic.” Lim also questioned whether the government’s Central Database Hub (Padu) would play a meaningful role in determining eligibility, given that it was introduced as a key data platform for targeted policymaking. “If the final decision is still based on broad labels without proper assessment, then what is the point of Padu?” He warned that households just above the cut-off threshold risk being unfairly penalised. “Do not turn the middle class into the government’s ATM.” From the opposition bench, Perikatan Nasional deputy chairman Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man said the government must first clearly define who qualifies as “rich” before proceeding with subsidy cuts. “The T20 should not automatically be labelled as rich,” said the PAS deputy president, arguing that rising living costs and unstable incomes

operating costs. “Is the time right, at the risk of inflation, shrinking consumption and slowing the economy?” said the Wanita DAP deputy chief. She said many within the T15 and T20 categories comprise small business owners and professionals whose higher fuel and transport costs would likely be passed down the supply chain, fuelling broader inflationary spillovers. “If not handled properly we are at risk of a full blown recession,” she said, adding that domestic consumption, a key driver of economic growth, could weaken sharply if disposable incomes continue to be squeezed. Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng urged the government to clearly explain the mechanism behind the proposed subsidy reform, warning that labels such as T20 and T15 oversimplify the financial realities faced by many urban households. “High income does not mean rich,” he said, adding that families above the T20 threshold in major cities could still struggle after accounting for housing, education, loans and daily living

PETALING JAYA: The government’s proposed rationalisation of RON95 petrol subsidies is drawing growing political resistance, with lawmakers warning that the move could trigger fresh inflationary pressures, widen inequality and further burden Malaysia’s already strained middle class. The backlash follows Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement that Putrajaya had agreed in principle to remove fuel subsidies for higher-income groups as part of wider fiscal reforms aimed at improving subsidy efficiency and strengthening national finances. Critics, however, cautioned that the timing of the move could backfire amid rising living costs, fragile global economic conditions and lingering geopolitical uncertainty. Puchong MP Yeo Bee Yin warned that higher fuel prices would not only affect wealthy households but also ripple across the broader economy through increased logistics and

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Practical support for growth of orang asli women vital: NGO

Call for inclusive refugee registration

Ű THE SUN TEAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

“You can adjust how you teach to suit them, not the other way around.” They said some external educators may overlook students perceived as weaker academically, focusing attention instead on those considered high-performing. “The ones not given attention are often the ones who needed the most support to begin with.” They also pointed to inconsistent teacher presence in certain rural schools as a factor contributing to poor literacy outcomes. “In some rural schools, students are playing outside while teachers remain in the office. It is not because the children cannot learn but because no one has consistently shown up to give them the attention they need,” they said. – By Kirtinee Ramesh PETALING JAYA: A refugee-led organisation in Malaysia has urged authorities to ensure the country’s new refugee registration mechanism is implemented transparently, inclusively and with safeguards for vulnerable communities. The Refugee Action for Change (ReAct), representing 200 refugee community leaders, welcomed the government’s development of the Dokumen Pendaftaran Pelarian but stressed that refugee voices must be meaningfully consulted. Through internal consultations, ReAct found recurring concerns among community members. Many reported limited awareness of the document process, citing barriers such as language difficulties, lack of digital access, restricted mobility and socioeconomic hardship. Data privacy was another major concern, with refugees questioning how personal information would be stored and protected. Some feared registration near detention operations could deter families, particularly those with children, from coming forward. Uncertainty also remained over the legal weight of the documentation, such as whether it would provide genuine protection and serve as a sustainable long-term solution. ReAct said groups such as unregistered refugees, the elderly, persons with disabilities and those in remote areas risk exclusion due to systemic barriers. While affirming the value of structured documentation, it urged policymakers to place human dignity at the centre of implementation. It suggested providing the document information in multiple languages, boosting transparency and accountability mechanisms, involving refugee-led organisations in meaningful consultation, ensuring no vulnerable individual is excluded and fostering trust rather than fear in the registration process. ReAct concluded with a reminder to decision-makers as it said: “Nothing about refugees should be decided without refugees.”

PETALING Indigenous women cannot be expected to pursue skills training and economic mobility without basic support systems such as housing, financial aid and childcare, said SOLS Foundation managing director Danutcha Catriona Singh. She said practical support measures are critical to ensuring orang asli women are able to participate in development programmes, especially those forced to leave rural villages for urban centres such as Kuala Lumpur. “When we ask a woman to leave her village and come to Kuala Lumpur to study, we are asking her to take on significant participation costs, the bulk of which are accommodation, food and daily expenses, while also stepping away from her contribution to her family back home. “If we do not address those realities directly, we limit her ability to attend skills and work development courses such as this.” In an interview, Danutcha said the NGO provides accommodation and living allowances to prevent participants from bearing out-of pocket expenses while enabling them to continue supporting their families financially during training. However, she said childcare remains one of the biggest barriers preventing more mothers from joining the programme. o Participation costs of development programmes include accommodation, food, daily expenses, childcare, says SOLS Foundation Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com JAYA: participants of the SOLS Asli Women Academy programme say are often overlooked in more conventional leadership systems shaped by hierarchy and formal authority. Participants Nora, Nuraini and Natasha said leadership within many orang asli villages has traditionally been grounded in lived experience, familiarity and accountability. In written comments to theSun , they said leadership structures have become more formalised over time but many orang asli communities still prioritise consultative decision making in which collective voices remain central. “For orang asli communities,

Through the Asli Centre model, graduates are expected to return as educators and community leaders capable of bringing opportunities directly back to their villages. – SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN/THESUN

off future opportunities before they have had a chance to explore them.” The participants said such attitudes can surface within schools, where orang asli girls are sometimes questioned about marriage plans instead of being encouraged to pursue higher education or careers. “That sends a message on the limits a girl can imagine her future to be.” They also stressed the importance of training and placing educators from within orang asli communities, saying local teachers are often better positioned to understand students’ learning needs and lived realities. “When you are an educator from the community, you understand the people you are teaching. You know how they think and what kind of encouragement they need. women from fully participating in leadership and economic sectors. They added that indigenous women must be recognised not only as caregivers, but also as leaders, educators and contributors to the economy. Among the recommendations raised were greater recognition of orang asli women as community and economic leaders, stronger pathways into institutions serving indigenous communities, and increased placement of orang asli t eachers in primary as well as secondary schools. “Representation matters. When children see teachers and leaders from their own communities, it helps them imagine different possibilities for their own futures.” They noted that stronger representation would help ensure policies and programmes are shaped by those who understand the lived realities faced by orang asli communities.

The participants also described situations in which women were sidelined from important discussions and expected to remain confined to domestic responsibilities. “We have sat in discussions in which women were asked to manage the food but not join the meeting.” They said limited awareness of legal protections remains another major concern, with many women unaware of their rights in cases involving abuse, divorce or personal decision-making. Early marriage was also identified as a continuing issue affecting girls’ education, health and long-term opportunities. “When girls marry young, it closes beginning employment opportunities as community centre managers before expanding into entrepreneurship and leadership roles within orang asli c ommunities. “For many of our participants, this is the first time anyone has invested in them in this way.” Danutcha said empowering indigenous women could create ripple effects across communities and future generations. “When a woman returns to her village more confident and more capable, the people around her take notice. “Children, especially daughters, begin to see different possibilities for their own lives.” Through the Asli Centre model, graduates are expected to return as educators and community leaders capable of bringing opportunities directly back to their villages. Sawa participants Nora, Nuraini and Natasha said policy gaps continue to hinder orang asli with

They said many rural and orang asli women continue to face deeply entrenched barriers that limit access to education, employment and leadership opportunities. They noted that among the most pressing challenges is the lack of stable and meaningful employment opportunities near villages, even for women who have completed their studies. They added that social expectations surrounding marriage and motherhood often further restrict women’s choices. “Whether a woman can pursue further training or work outside the home often depends greatly on her “For mothers who want to join, being separated from children is one of the hardest things to ask. “If we could offer housing that accommodates children as well, we would open the programme to even more women who deserve to be here,” she said, adding that the organisation hopes to address the issue in the future. The support is part of the SOLS Asli Women Academy (Sawa), launched in January this year to train orang asli women as professional educators and community leaders. Danutcha emphasised that the programme goes beyond technical training by focusing on confidence-building and long-term economic independence. “For participants, we expect them to leave with a strong set of skills, a sense of their own worth and the confidence to make decisions for themselves and their families.” She said the initiative aims to create sustainable income pathways,

‘Indigenous leadership based on trust, consensus, strong community ties’ PETALING JAYA: Orang asli leadership is built on trust, consensus and deep community ties, values that leadership is not only about position. It is also about trust, consensus and collective wellbeing.” husband. Many feel that motherhood is their only recognised role.”

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Khairy’s return to Umno sparks debate

o Comeback has strategic value but impact depends on whether party embraces reformist narrative: Academic

without giving him a major role in shaping the party’s direction, then the impact may be limited to political cosmetics,” he noted. On Sungai Buloh, Tawfik said the seat would remain competitive if Khairy is fielded again, although Ramanan has the advantage of incumbency and ministerial status. Khairy was initially sacked from Umno on Jan 27, 2023 for breaching party discipline during the 15th general election. He submitted his appeal to rejoin Umno on March 15, with the Supreme Council approving his return on April 17 under the Gagasan Rumah Bangsa initiative. Umno secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki confirmed that Khairy was among 6,252 former members accepted back, alongside Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein and Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar.

Sungai Buloh could favour Khairy if dissatisfaction with Ramanan persists among PKR supporters. “If it is Ramanan against Khairy, I think Khairy’s chances are bright. To punish Ramanan, Khairy may become the choice.” Universiti Malaya professor Dr Mohammad Tawfik Yaakub said Khairy’s comeback carries symbolic and strategic value but added that Umno must decide whether to use him as a public-facing asset or part of a deeper internal reset. “His influence is strong among young voters, urban professionals and the middle class. However, Umno’s weakness remains in rural Malay-majority seats where PAS and PN have made inroads.” He said Khairy’s impact depends on whether Umno embraces his reformist narrative. “If Umno only brings Khairy back

Some Umno insiders have expressed their reservations over the return of the former Rembau MP but declined to elaborate, while others such as Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Mansor and Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan did not respond at press time. Political analysts said Khairy still carries value for Umno but may not guarantee a wider BN revival. International Islamic University Malaysia associate professor Dr Syaza Shukri said Khairy’s influence is strongest among urban voters, especially after his 2023 expulsion kept him outside party structures. “He is seen as having the calibre of a national leader. He could help Umno win over young voters, provided he balances his intellectualism with the language of the average Malay.” She added that a rematch in

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Khairy’s also renewed speculation over whether he could contest Sungai Buloh again, where he narrowly lost to PKR’s Datuk Seri R. Ramanan Ramakrishnan during the 15th general election. Lokman noted that the matter would be complicated if Barisan Nasional (BN) remains aligned with Pakatan Harapan (PH) as the seat is currently held by PH. “If the party remains with PH, then the seat belongs to PH. To vacate the seat, there must be an agreement for a swap.” re-entry has

PETALING JAYA: The return to Umno of Khairy Jamaluddin may give the party a recognisable figure to attract urban Malays and younger voters, although questions remain over how smoothly his comeback will be received within party ranks. Umno Supreme Council member Datuk Lokman Noor Adam said he respects party president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s decision to allow Khairy back but declined further comment.

Long payment terms impairing ad agencies PETALING JAYA: The growing practice of extended payment terms imposed by some advertisers is placing unsustainable financial pressure on advertising agencies and threatening the long-term health of the industry, according to the Association of Accredited Advertising Agents Malaysia. Its president Tan Kien Eng said payment cycles that were once typically settled within 30 days have increasingly stretched to 120 days or longer, effectively forcing agencies to finance clients’ marketing campaigns upfront. “Advertising agencies are not banks. Yet, we are increasingly being placed in a position in which we are expected to fund campaigns upfront, absorb operational costs and at the same time wait months to be paid.” Tan said the issue is particularly severe in campaign production, in which agencies must pay third-party vendors, such as production houses and talent providers, well in advance while client payments are delayed. He noted that the delay creates serious cash flow mismatches, especially as agencies are people-driven businesses, with talent costs accounting for up to 80% of operational expenses. “When payments are delayed, it directly affects our ability to pay our people on time, invest in new capabilities and retain the best talent. Ultimately, this weakens the quality of work delivered to clients.” Tan said the issue is beginning to affect the wider industry ecosystem, as agencies accepting such terms risk setting unhealthy precedents that could erode professional standards across the sector. He explained that many advertisers promote strong governance and ethical business practices, but extended payment terms contradict those principles by shifting the financial burden onto agencies. He urged advertisers to return to more reasonable payment cycles, encouraging agencies to closely monitor payment timelines and hold clearer discussions with clients regarding payment expectations. “Agencies should be prepared to push back on unfair terms. Industry-wide alignment is critical to ensure a sustainable ecosystem.” Tan also said Malaysia should explore policy measures to encourage fair payment practices, including greater transparency in payment terms among large organisations. Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

MMEA saves 23 illegal immigrants after boat capsizes IPOH: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) rescued 23 illegal Indonesian immigrants after the boat they were travelling in capsized in the waters off Pulau Pangkor near Lumut on Monday. the Manjung district police headquarters.” He said preliminary investigations revealed that 37 illegal immigrants are believed to have been on board the boat.

The vessel was intercepted 5.2 nautical miles southeast of Pulau Samak at 6.39pm. Inspections found that the vessel was operated by three Myanmar crew members, including a skipper, aged between 42 and 45. “All crew members are suspected of committing offences under the Fisheries Act 1985 for fishing within less than 15 nautical miles from the nearest shoreline, as well as not possessing valid identification documents under the Immigration Act 1959/63.” He added that the crew members, vessel, fishing equipment and marine produce, estimated at more than RM3 million, were seized and taken to the Kampung Acheh Marine Police Jetty for further investigation. – Bernama

The remaining passengers are missing and search-and-rescue operations are ongoing. He added that authorities recovered three bags containing clothing believed to belong to the victims, and identification procedures are being carried out on the survivors. “Initial investigations found that all of them are believed to have departed from Kisaran, Indonesia on Saturday en route to Malaysia.” In a separate case, Mohamad Shukri said the MMEA detained a Class C fishing vessel during an enforcement operation conducted on Sunday.

Perak MMEA director Maritime Captain Mohamad Shukri Khotob said the agency received a report at 5.30am from a local fisherman who discovered several victims floating at sea and sought assistance. A search-and-rescue operation was launched, with two MMEA vessels deployed, assisted by the Marine Police Force, the navy and members of the local fishing community. “A local fishing vessel rescued 16 men and seven women, all of whom have been handed over to authorities for further investigation at

The charge is framed under Section 302 of the Penal Code, which carries the death penalty or up to 40 years’ jail and not fewer than 12 strokes of the cane upon conviction. – BERNAMAPIC

Teen charged with murder of female college student KOTA BHARU: A teenager was charged in the Magistrate’s Court here yesterday with the murder of a female college student whose body was found with 61 stab wounds about two weeks ago. Ketereh between 11.40pm on April 30 and 12.20am on May 1.

The court fixed July 2 for mention for the submission of documents, including the forensic report. On May 1, the body was discovered on a roadside near the Kampung Simah padi fields. Police believe she was killed elsewhere before her body was dumped in the area. Following the incident, police detained four individuals aged between 19 and 66 to assist in investigations. Two senior citizens, including a woman, were later released on police bail after being remanded for three days. – Bernama

The charge is framed under Section 302 of the Penal Code, which carries the death penalty or up to 40 years’ jail and not fewer than 12 strokes of the cane upon conviction. The prosecution was conducted by Kelantan Prosecution director Wan Azimah Yaacob, with DPPs Muhamad Nadzir Abdullah and Ahmad Naabil Mohamed Asri, while the accused was represented by lawyer Mohd Alias Ibrahim.

Muhammad Hazim Muhammad, 19, nodded after the charge was read out before Magistrate Rais Imran Hamid. However, no plea was recorded as the case falls under the jurisdiction of the High Court. He is charged with murdering Nurfisya Zulkifly, 19, in Jalan Pengkalan Piah,

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Financial survival or parenthood, dilemma of young Malaysians

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s plunging birth rate is increasingly being driven not by a rejection of parenthood but by the harsh economic realities confronting young adults, said MCA Youth Information chief Neow Choo Seong. He said stagnant wages, insecure employment, soaring living costs and rising childcare expenses are making it difficult for many young Malaysians to even consider starting a family. “At this juncture, we can see that young people cannot find decent or proper jobs with reasonable incomes. I do not think they even dare to step into marriage. “Even if they get married, to have a baby in these challenging times, with the high cost of living, inflation and so on, is not conducive for young couples,” he told theSun . Neow said the growing reluctance to have children should not be mistaken for a lack of desire, particularly among urban couples who are increasingly forced to weigh financial survival against parenthood. He said many young adults are questioning whether they could afford to provide their children with a decent quality of life, especially in terms of education and long-term security. “If I cannot afford a good life for my children, particularly education, why should I bring them into this world?” he said describing the dilemma faced by many couples. He said social priorities had also shifted, with many young Malaysians delaying marriage and parenthood to

o Stagnant wages, insecure employment, living costs, childcare expenses making many Malaysians avoid starting a family, says MCA info chief focus on higher education, careers, travel and personal aspirations. “Young adults would rather travel, chase their hobbies or dreams and enjoy their life before they think of settling down. This does not help create a sense of urgency to have a family. At the age of 30, we still think we are young.” Neow said childcare had become one of the heaviest financial burdens for working couples, with daycare fees consuming a substantial share of household income. He pointed out that many young adults are facing this dilemma. “At the end of the month, we find out we are working to pay for daycare. That is very tough for young couples with a household income of less

Neow said the growing reluctance to have children should not be mistaken for a lack of desire, particularly among urban couples who are increasingly forced to weigh financial survival against parenthood. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

105,613 births during the same period last year. Women aged between 30 and 39 accounted for the largest share of births at 53.3%, followed by those aged 20 to 29 at 39.3%, reflecting the trend of delayed parenthood.

young parents and wider access to affordable childcare services. According to the Statistics Department, Malaysia recorded 93,500 live births in the first quarter of 2025 – the lowest quarterly figure ever recorded, and an 11.5% decline from

than RM10,000. “To have a second child, it is not that they do not want to. I think it is that they cannot afford to.” He urged the government to strengthen family-friendly policies, including workplace support for

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7

Duterte ally in standoff

Thai police crack down on foreign crime rings BANGKOK: Thailand has launched a crackdown on foreign criminal networks, with Thai police ordered to “X-ray” high-risk areas populated by foreigners and dismantle syndicates involved in cybercrime, drug trafficking, illegal businesses and human smuggling. Police spokesperson Lt-Gen Trairong Phiwphan said police chief Gen Kitrat Phanphet had instructed all units to intensify enforcement against foreigners violating Thai laws amid growing concerns over transnational crime and illegal operations affecting public safety and the economy. Trairong said the operation targets foreigners linked to drug trafficking, economic and customs offences, cybercrime, prostitution, human trafficking, illegal immigration and nominee business schemes. “The police chief has instructed all units to strictly enforce the law and take legal action against all offenders,”Trairong said yesterday. He said under the first phase, dubbed “X-ray, mobilise, sweep”, authorities will carry out a three month campaign focusing on locations where large numbers of foreigners gather or reside. He said police are also considering establishing a joint task force with agencies including the Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Finance, Anti-Money Laundering Office, Bank of Thailand, Customs Department, Excise Department and Land Department to strengthen enforcement and intelligence sharing. “As part of medium-term measures, the Immigration Bureau and related agencies will review immigration records, scrutinise foreign-owned businesses and verify visa extensions to close loopholes,” he said. Trairong said authorities will also study amendments to relevant laws to improve enforcement, while investigators have been ordered to expand probes to dismantle syndicates. He said state officials found colluding with offenders would face immediate legal, disciplinary and administrative action.

MANILA: The top enforcer of former president Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr yesterday to not hand him over to the International Criminal Court, but said he was ready to face justice at home. Fearing arrest and hunkered down in his legislative office for a second day, Senator Ronald dela Rosa said he had faithfully served his country. The ICC unsealed an arrest warrant on Monday for former police chief dela Rosa, dated November, on suspicion of crimes against humanity, the same crimes 81-year-old Duterte is accused of as he awaits trial in The Hague following his arrest last year. Dela Rosa, better known as “Bato”, or “rock”, has been under the protective custody of the Senate since law enforcement agents entered the building on Monday, when he reappeared in public for the first time since November. He has denied involvement in illegal killings. “I hope that, as the father of the nation, you will take care of all Filipinos. That is the role of government, to care for its people,” o Senator named in ICC arrest warrant

Rosa fielding questions from journalists at the Senate yesterday. – REUTERSPIC

person, but lived her life with no limits and chased her passions around the world,” he said. Her body was flown to a Kathmandu hospital on Monday. Makalu, a steep pyramid-shaped mountain southeast of Everest, is considered technically challenging because of extreme weather and its remote location. – AFP The war on drugs was the key platform that swept Duterte to power in 2016 as a tough-talking mayor who during televised public speeches promised to kill thousands of drug dealers while repeatedly daring the ICC to come after him. Duterte’s defence team at the ICC has said he maintains his innocence and his tough rhetoric was designed to instil fear among criminals. – Reuters yesterday said no order had been received to make an arrest, but police remain “prepared to act in accordance with lawful directives and established procedures”. The office of the president reiterated that the Philippines is no longer a signatory to the ICC’s founding treaty but can execute an ICC warrant if requested by Interpol, the same procedure as Duterte’s arrest. Asked by Reuters in a text message how soon an Interpol request could be made, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said: “Only Interpol knows.”

“She was hit by an avalanche below Camp 3,” said Nabin Trital, managing director of Expedition Himalaya. She was climbing with a three member team that included her partner David Ashley and two guides. Ashley said he was “heartbroken” by her death. “Shelley was not just an incredible “Mr President, (you) may one day face a situation like this. You may also encounter problems, and then you will understand, you will feel what I am feeling right now.” Dela Rosa was Duterte’s top lieutenant and oversaw a fierce crackdown during which police say more than 6,000 suspected drug dealers were killed in official operations. Thousands of users were also gunned down in slumland murders blamed on vigilantes or turf wars. Police say those killed during operations had resisted arrest and reject allegations of systematic murders and cover-ups. Police stood in line behind riot shields yesterday outside the Senate, where all committee meetings were cancelled following dramatic scenes a day earlier, when dela Rosa was seen scrambling for the safety of his office as agents from the National Bureau of Investigation arrived. National police chief Jose Melencio Nartatez in a statement

dela Rosa told reporters when asked what his message was to President Marcos. “I did everything for the country. I did not enrich myself. I worked faithfully,” he said, his eyes welling with tears.

NBI personnel waiting outside the Senate gate on Monday. – REUTERSPIC

American climber dies in Nepal avalanche KATHMANDU: An American climber has died in an avalanche on Mount Makalu, officials said yesterday, as fatalities mount early in Nepal’s busy spring climbing season. David Roubinek, a 38-year-old Czech climber, and three Nepali guides have died in the Himalayas so far this season. Johannesen, co-founder of US

In the longer term, police plan to establish an integrated database system linked to the “One Police” platform to improve monitoring of foreign nationals and strengthen coordination with international law enforcement agencies. – Bernama Nine killed in northwest Pakistan market blast Shelley Johannesen, 53, was killed on Monday while descending from the summit of the world’s fifth-highest peak, expedition organisers said, marking the season’s latest death.

based outfitter Dash Adventures, had successfully reached the 8,485m summit before she was struck by an avalanche at around 7,200m while coming down.

DERA ISMAIL KHAN: A massive blast at a crowded market in northwestern Pakistan killed nine people and wounded dozens more yesterday, the emergency services agency said, as the latest attack in the region threatens to reignite fighting with neighbouring Afghanistan. The bomb blast at the crowded

killed and around 30 others wounded in yesterday’s explosion at the market, which is part of the town square. Those with serious injuries had been rushed to hospitals in Bannu. Mohammad Ishaq, the medical superintendent of THQ Hospital, said they had received 37 patients. – Reuters

after Islamabad launched airstrikes on Kabul, saying it was targeting militant strongholds used to orchestrate attacks on Pakistan. Afghanistanan denied harbouring militants and said militancy in Pakistan is an internal problem. The emergency response agency Rescue 1122 said nine people were

nearby Bannu that killed 15 police officers Pakistan blamed Afghanistan based militants for the attack and delivered a strong protest to Kabul. The Afghan government said on Monday it had no comment. The two countries engaged in their worst fighting in years in February

Naurang Bazar caused panic on the streets, as people rushed to help the wounded and emergency vehicles raced to the site. Visuals from the scene showed damaged shopfronts and a mangled vehicle. The attack follows a Saturday car bombing and subsequent ambush in