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Black market tobacco trade cost Malaysia RM11.5bil in lost revenue: Report

Kids in kitchens kitchens Giving children a head start in cooking – P22

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p 23 Five fun ways to make

p 24 Keeping young ones safe while going online

p 25 Celebrating themes of motherhood via art

Parents’ Day extra special

Third bloc challenge

Can Bersama reshape reform politics or split the opposition vote?

Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli (right) and Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad raise hands in unity during an announcement to mark the rise of Bersama and a new chapter in Malaysian politics. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

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Safer internet drive intensifies MCMC finalising safety code to force faster removal of child sexual abuse content.

Festive journeys expanding beyond reunions into shared experiences, says Airbnb Travel traditions are a-changing

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King presents instruments of appointment to 15 envoys

KUALA LUMPUR: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia presented instruments of appointment to 15 Malaysian envoys designated for missions abroad in a ceremony at Istana Negara yesterday. The envoys include Malaysia’s new Ambassador to Japan Datuk Ahmad Rozian Abd Ghani, High Commissioner to Singapore Datin Paduka Anizan Siti Adnin and High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Datuk Dr Azfar Mohamad Mustafar. Others appointed were the ambassadors to Austria, New Zealand, Laos, Oman, Ireland, Finland, Timor-Leste, Turkiye, Chile, Lebanon, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan. In a separate ceremony, His Majesty also received credentials from seven foreign envoys to Malaysia, namely the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka Dharshana Mahendra Perera and the ambassadors of Morocco (Majid Halim), Panama (Nubiela Yanarith Ayala), Liberia (Dudley McKinley Thomas), Serbia (Ivana Golubovic

Duboka), Angola (Fernando Miguel) and Niger (Zada Seidou). Earlier, the King also presented instruments of appointment to members of the Federal Territory Islamic Religious Council for the 2026-2028 term. Datuk Syed Kamarulzaman Syed Kabeer was appointed the council’s chairman, Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee its deputy chairman and Datuk Mohd Nizam Yahya the secretary. Other council appointees include zakat collection centre chairman Datuk Seri Amrin Awaluddin, Federal Territory Mufti Datuk Dr Ahmad Fauwaz Fadzil, Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Fadil Marsus, Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Seri Fadlun Mak Ujud, Senior Deputy Secretary General of the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Abd Shukor Mahmood, Syariah and Harmonisation of Law Division head at the Attorney General’s Chambers Datuk Anas Ahmad Zakie, corporate figure Tan Sri Azman Mokhtar and veteran administrator Datuk Seri Dr Yusof Ismail.

The King meeting those presented with instruments of appointment at Istana Negara yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

Curbing spread of child sexual abuse material

New initiative to manage refugees, asylum seekers TAPAH: Malaysia’s Refugee

programme’s first phase focuses on the Refugee Status Determination process involving refugees, mainly Rohingya from Myanmar, currently detained at immigration depots nationwide. He said the Home Ministry is leading 20 ministries and government agencies in collecting personal information, biometric data, facial recognition and voice recordings through a system developed by the Malaysia Institute of Microelectronic Systems to establish a comprehensive domestic database. “The refugees come from various countries but for the first phase, we are prioritising Rohingya refugees from Myanmar, who number 4,008.” He said the database could also support future job-matching initiatives involving refugees aged between 20 and 40 to fill vacancies in five key sectors, namely manufacturing, construction, agriculture, plantations and services. He added that the move would help balance employers’ labour needs under the 13th Malaysia Plan which aims to reduce the ceiling for foreign workers to 10% or a maximum of 1.7 million workers out of the country’s estimated 17 million workforce. – Bernama reform is all about. I hope this historic change will set a new precedent for our country in the years to come.” The next Parliamentary meeting is scheduled to run for 16 days beginning June 22. The Parliamentary Special Select Committee is chaired by Azalina and comprises 11 MPs from both the government and opposition blocs. – Bernama

Registration Document programme does not guarantee refugees permanent residence in the country, as the management of refugees and asylum seekers ultimately sees one of three outcomes, namely repatriation, resettlement in a third country or deportation, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. He said the pilot programme which began on Jan 1 this year, is in line with the National Security Council Directive No 23 (Revised 2023) to ensure a more systematic, organised and humanitarian approach to managing refugees and asylum seekers in the country. “Registration under the programme and matching refugees with employers does not mean they can permanently settle here. The end result will still be repatriation, third-country resettlement or deportation,” he said after a working visit to the Refugee and Asylum Seeker Special Detention Centre in Bidor yesterday. Also present were Immigration director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban and Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department director Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri. Saifuddin Nasution said the Abdul as representatives from the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department and the Attorney General’s Chambers. Azalina said opposition lawmakers had also been urged to support the Bill, as the proposed amendment would benefit the public as a whole. “We would like to inform the public that this is exactly what institutional Rahman as well

universal internet usage was achieved under the National Digital Network with 98.4% of men and 97.6% of women online, alongside strong 4G and 5G coverage. On another development, Teo said the Madani Submarine Cable Connection project announced in Budget 2026 is still in its early stages of implementation and is expected to take between two and three years to complete. She said MCMC has appointed a consultant to advise on the implementation of the project. Teo said the project, with an allocation of RM2 billion, is crucial in strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure while supporting the capacity of the 1Malaysia People’s Cable System which has been in use for a long time.

o MCMC finalising safety code requiring online platforms to act swiftly to block access, remove harmful content, says deputy minister

SUBANG JAYA: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is finalising a safety code to curb the spread of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), with implementation targeted for June, said Communications Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching. She said the code would require online platforms to act swiftly to block access and remove harmful content, with CSAM designated as a high priority category under the national Online Safety Act framework. “MCMC is still developing the safety code which will be implemented in June. We hope to get better cooperation from platforms to ensure that harmful content is removed faster and we can create a safer digital world for every user.” KUALA LUMPUR: The Constitutional Amendment Bill related to the separation of the roles of the attorney general (AG) and public prosecutor (PP) is expected to be tabled during next month’s Parliamentary sitting. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said the draft of the Bill had been finalised and had received the

Teo was speaking yesterday after officiating at the World Telecommunication and Information Society Day and the Girls in ICT programme hosted by MCMC, Bernama reported. Citing police statistics, she said CSAM cases rose from 31 in 2020 to 44 in 2021, then dipped to 28 cases the following year before climbing to 67 cases in 2023, 68 in 2024 and 152 last year. She said 100 cases have been recorded this year and the figure could only be the tip of the iceberg as greater connectivity and the proliferation of generative tools make such content easier to produce and disseminate. Earlier, Teo lauded Malaysia’s network progress, saying that near approval of the Parliamentary Special Select Committee on the Constitutional Amendment during its sixth meeting yesterday. “We have prepared a draft constitutional amendment which I believe will receive the support of MPs from both the government and the Opposition. “I hope that when we table this amendment Bill, it will mark a historic

The 3,190km submarine cable will be developed by MCMC, involving an undersea route from Sedili in Johor to Kuching and Sibu in Sarawak, before continuing to Tuaran, Kudat, Pulau Banggi, Sandakan and Tawau in Sabah. AG-PP separation Bill to be tabled next month

change for our country, where for the first time since independence we establish a separation between the roles of the attorney general and the public prosecutor.” Among those present at the meeting were Parit Sulong MP cum Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad, Kota Bharu MP Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan, Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed

TUESDAY | MAY 19, 2026

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Bersama testing if voters ready to embrace third force

Party seeks legal advice on enforcing RM10m bond JOHOR BAHRU: PKR is seeking legal advice on enforcing a RM10 million bond signed by former deputy president Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and former vice-president Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, following their decision to vacate their parliamentary seats and leave the party. PKR secretary-general Datuk Dr Fuziah Salleh said both remain bound by the agreement, adding that the party has evidence suggesting that they have already joined Parti Bersama Malaysia before formally vacating their seats, a sequence she said could carry legal implications. “They are claiming that the Anti-Hopping Act 2022 does not apply. But I have proof that they joined the other party, with a timestamp dated May 17 on the website,” Fuziah told reporters on the sidelines of the National Consumer Policy 2.0 Advocacy Programme in Johor Bahru. “If we follow the party constitution, they defected on Sunday, before they vacated their seats on Monday.” She said the claim is based on information from Bersama’s official website, which indicated the two had become members a day before relinquishing their seats for Pandan and Setiawangsa respectively. If the timeline is upheld, PKR argues that it could mean the pair joined a rival party while still serving as MPs under the PKR banner, a situation Fuziah suggested could trigger the Act, regardless of their subsequent resignations. PKR confirmed that the matter will be raised at the party’s political bureau meeting today. Rafizi rejected claims that he or Nik Nazmi are liable under the bond. He said the agreement applies only when a PKR MP defects to another party without first vacating the seat won under the party’s ticket. He also said since they vacated their seats before formally leaving PKR, the conditions triggering the bond were not met and the Act does not apply to their case. surmised that the outcome will depend on the interaction between constitutional procedure, political strategy and institutional discretion, and could determine whether the episode becomes a landmark test of Article 49A or a carefully managed political transition. On Sunday, Rafizi and Nik Nazmi declared that they have vacated their seats before announcing their move to join Bersama. It was reported yesterday that PKR secretary-general Datuk Fuziah Salleh said both former members are still bound by a RM10 million party bond, despite the announcement that they have vacated their parliamentary seats before officially leaving the party. She also said there is evidence that they have already joined Bersama, adding that the party’s website shows a registration timestamp dated May 17. – By Harith Kamal Ű BY THE SUN TEAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

However, she added that Rafizi and Nik Nazmi may command greater credibility than Muda due to their experience as national-level politicians. Nusantara Academy for Strategic Research senior fellow Dr Azmi Hassan said Bersama’s key challenge is proving it can deliver policy solutions rather than relying on anti-establishment rhetoric. “When he promises that Bersama will provide solutions, I think there is already some negative perception there,” he said, referring to Rafizi’s long-running “Raja Formula” reputation in Malaysian politics. “Rafizi alone, Nik Nazmi alone and a few other disgruntled PKR politicians are just not enough to attract the younger generation.” He argued that if Bersama is to become electorally viable, it may ultimately require cooperation with a larger established coalition. “It seems the long and short of it is that Bersama needs to work with an established political party,” he said, adding that it remains unclear which party would be the most suitable strategic partner at this stage.

o Party unlikely to instantly emerge as major bloc but could have electoral impact: Analyst

PETALING Seri Rafizi Ramli’s bid to lead Parti Bersama Malaysia is emerging as a major early test of whether Malaysian voters are prepared to embrace a credible “third force” or whether the new platform will end up fragmenting the reformist bloc ahead of the next general election. Positioning itself as an alternative to Pakatan Harapan (PH), Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN), Bersama is entering the political arena on a platform of generational change, reformist politics and a rejection of what Rafizi has described as Malaysia’s “rotation game” of coalition survival. But political analysts say its emergence raises a deeper question of whether Malaysia is truly ready for a viable third force or whether Bersama will split the reformist vote and inadvertently strengthen rival coalitions. Universiti Malaya sociopolitical analyst Datuk Prof Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi said Bersama is unlikely to immediately emerge as a major third bloc capable of replacing PH, BN or PN but added that it could still have a decisive electoral impact. “In a first-past-the-post electoral system, a small party does not need to win many seats in order to have a major impact. “It is enough to take between 5% and 10% of votes in certain constituencies to cause PH, BN or PN to lose seats.” Awang Azman said Rafizi’s reformist and technocratic branding, together with Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad’s image as an urban progressive leader, could resonate with disillusioned urban and younger voters, especially in mixed constituencies. However, he cautioned that personality appeal alone would not be sufficient to build a sustainable national political force. He noted that Bersama could become a serious challenge to PKR if it succeeds in drawing reformist youth groups, urban professionals JAYA: Datuk

She added that Muda eventually worked with PH during the 2022 general election to secure seats. “If votes are split, and now BN and PH also want to fight each other, PN would be the beneficiary.” However, she emphasised that Rafizi and Nik Nazmi have the democratic right to challenge PH despite the political cost. She cautioned against viewing youth voters as a single ideological bloc, noting that younger Malaysians remain politically fragmented. Syaza said previous youth-focused movements such as Muda struggled to expand beyond their core base, adding that while it is positive to broaden political choice, it would be misleading to assume a uniform youth political direction. “Maybe urban educated youth would respond positively to Bersama’s messaging, but how many are they in the larger scheme?”

and disillusioned PH supporters. “That challenge may down immediately, but it could weaken PKR’s moral dominance as the party of reform.” On PKR’s position, Awang Azman said the development is not an immediate existential threat but a clear warning that the party must address internal dynamics, reformist space and youth confidence in the post-Anwar leadership era. International Islamic University Malaysia political analyst and Iseas–Yusof Ishak Institute fellow Assoc Prof Dr Syaza Shukri said the most immediate risk from Bersama’s emergence is vote fragmentation in PH-held urban constituencies. “Realistically, it would be like the Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda) as a third force, splitting votes especially in urban PH-held areas.” not necessarily bring PKR

HEALTHY HANDOUTS ... Participants of the We Run Bintong l eisure run receiving free vegetables at one of the checkpoints in conjunction with the Bintong DUN Unity Carnival in Sungai Siran, Abi in Kangar yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

Planned PKR exit raises questions on anti-hopping law PETALING JAYA: The planned political exit of former Economy minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad from PKR, alongside their reported move to vacate their parliamentary seats before joining or taking over Parti Bersama Malaysia, has raised fresh constitutional questions over Malaysia’s anti-hopping provisions under Article 49A of the Federal Constitution. Awang Azman explained that under Article 49A, an MP elected under a political party who later resigns from that party may trigger the vacancy of their seat. However, he said the vacancy is not automatic and must be confirmed by the speaker of the Dewan Rakyat upon receipt of written notification. confirmed by the speaker after receiving written notice.” Awang Azman said the speaker’s role is pivotal as parliamentary procedure, rather than political announcements, determines whether a seat is officially vacated. resignation or a structured political arrangement to manage the effect of Article 49A.” He stressed that the speaker of the Dewan Rakyat holds the decisive institutional authority in confirming whether a casual vacancy exists and whether the Election Commission must be notified.

He said the sequence of resignation from Parliament, leaving the party and joining a new political outfit is crucial in determining whether the move constitutes a clean resignation or a calculated strategy to navigate the anti-hopping law. “On the argument that they are vacating their seats first before leaving PKR to avoid anti-hopping consequences, I see it as a political move to reduce the perception of party hopping, but it does not settle all legal questions. “If these steps happen almost simultaneously, it still raises questions about whether it is a transparent

He emphasised that the case could become an important constitutional precedent in interpreting Malaysia’s anti-hopping law, particularly in situations in which resignation and party switching occur in close succession. However, the legal position is further complicated by provisions that have been interpreted to exempt by-elections for vacancies occurring within three years of the first sitting of Parliament, adding another layer of uncertainty. Ultimately, Awang Azman

He added that the speaker has up to 21 days to decide on the vacancy and notify the Election Commission, which would then trigger a by-election within 60 days of receiving official notice. “Under Article 49A, in principle, if an MP is elected under a party ticket and later leaves the party, the seat may become vacant. “The law states that an MP ceases to be a member of the House and the seat becomes vacant when they resign or are no longer a party member. “However, this must still be

Universiti Malaya sociopolitical analyst Datuk Prof Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi said the matter must be examined on two levels, namely constitutional law and electoral politics, stressing that the legal process is more complex than public perception. He said based on current reports, Rafizi and Nik Nazmi have announced plans to vacate their parliamentary seats and leave PKR before joining a new party they are set to take over.

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‘Accelerating polar ice melt raising risk of coastline flooding’

undertaken the development of standardised extracts targeting respiratory health and diabetes management applications.” Sagah said the initiative aims to ensure consistency in quality, safety and efficacy while supporting future downstream product development and commercialisation. He added that the research, developed under the traditional medicine category, could position Sarawak’s biodiversity resources as valuable assets for the health supplement industry. Initiative aims to benefit 10,000 Indian entrepreneurs KUALA LUMPUR: The Indian Entrepreneur Capital and Economic Stimulus Package, with a RM220 million financing allocation, is expected to benefit about 10,000 Indian entrepreneurs by the end of this year. Malaysian Associated Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MAICCI) president Datuk Seri Gobalakrishnan Narayanasamy said about 2,000 entrepreneurs have benefitted, involving RM70 million in approved financing. He said MAICCI is also conducting a nationwide roadshow to expand access to financing for small and medium entrepreneurs. “Through this programme, we aim to assist about 3,000 entrepreneurs in the near term through a series of nine MAICCI workshops and roadshow. “Entrepreneurs can also directly engage with the participating financing agencies.” The stimulus package programme is a strategic initiative of the Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Ministry. “This programme will serve as an important platform to reach entrepreneurs at the grassroots level, including Indian MSMEs, youth entrepreneurs, women entrepreneurs and cooperatives nationwide.” MAICCI deputy president Datuk Dr A.T. Kumararajah said the roadshow will support Indian MSME entrepreneurs in submitting applications to financing agencies, Bernama reported. He also said participation through chamber-led programmes generally improves approval chances compared with individual applications. Separately, Gobalakrishnan urged the government to address the foreign worker shortage, particularly in the manufacturing and food and beverage sectors, saying it is adding pressure on businesses. He said many firms are struggling to secure foreign worker quotas despite rising labour demand in several sectors. MAICCI said as of May 10, the ministry had approved RM70 million in financing for nearly 2,000 Indian entrepreneurs under the programme. Among the agencies and schemes under the programme are Tekun Nasional, SME Bank, Bank Rakyat, Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia and the Malaysia Co-operative Societies Commission.

PETALING Malaysia’s extensive coastline faces escalating risks of flooding, erosion and saltwater intrusion in the coming decades as accelerating polar ice melt drives global sea levels higher, a marine geoscientist has said. Rising temperatures linked to human activity have led the world’s oceans to absorb more than 90% of excess heat, triggering powerful currents that are accelerating the disintegration of ice sheets in Antarctica and Greenland. Universiti Malaysia Terengganu marine geoscientist Hafeez Jeofry said warm ocean currents transport heat from lower latitudes towards the poles, where they thin ice shelves from below. “These floating ice shelves act as buttresses that slow the flow of land-based ice. “When they weaken or collapse, the grounded ice accelerates into the ocean, contributing to sea-level rise.” He explained that ice sheets are massive bodies of land-based ice while ice shelves are their floating extensions, with icebergs forming when these shelves break apart. “When these floating ice shelves o Sea levels along M’sian shores could rise by between 0.67m and 0.74m by end of century: Marine geoscientist Ű BY THE SUN TEAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com JAYA:

A Civil Defence Force coastal rescue unit member showing the roots of a tree that emerged due to sand erosion caused by rough seas and strong winds at Miami Beach in Batu Ferringhi, Penang. – MASRY CHE ANI/ THESUN

forecasting Antarctic ice discharge. “Without accurate mapping of ice thickness and bed topography, especially near grounding zones where ice detaches from bedrock, it is hard to know how quickly ice sheets will respond to warming oceans.” Hafeez called for more extensive airborne radar surveys over Antarctica to improve mapping of bed topography and ice thickness. He said if current emission trends persist, sea-level rise would remain a dominant driver of coastal risk well beyond this century. Malaysia could also face secondary impacts, including saltwater intrusion into aquifers, reduced agricultural productivity in coastal plains, and increased flooding during high tides and storm surges, he noted.

fishing communities.” Hafeez said Southeast Asia faces heightened vulnerability because sea-level rise is not uniform globally. “As polar ice melts, changes in the Earth’s gravity and rotation mean regions far from the poles, including Southeast Asia, could experience higher-than-average sea-level rise.” He highlighted major scientific uncertainties that complicate projections, particularly limited ice thickness data in Antarctica. While satellites such as Sentinel-1, CryoSat-2 and ICESat-2 track ice movement and elevation, gaps in ground-penetrating radar coverage leave significant margins of error in estimating total ice loss. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has identified this data gap as a key limitation in

thin or collapse, the glaciers behind them flow more rapidly into the ocean, creating a self-reinforcing cycle of ice loss and sea-level rise.” Malaysia, with more than 5,000km of coastline, is highly exposed to these long-term changes. He estimated that sea levels along Malaysian shores could rise between 0.67m and 0.74m by the end of the century under current climate trajectories, with worst-case scenarios reaching up to 0.9m. “This magnitude of rise threatens to wipe out critical mangrove forests, inundate vital agricultural lands and displace tens of thousands of people across the region. “About one-third of Malaysia’s coastline is affected by erosion to varying degrees, placing pressure on settlements, tourism zones and

No disruption to Setiawangsa services, says minister PUTRAJAYA: Setiawangsa residents will continue to receive full attention and support, including through the strengthening of the Kuala Lumpur City Hall Setiawangsa branch office. The assurance comes following former PKR vice president Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad’s decision to vacate the area’s parliamentary seat. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh said services under the Federal Territories Department will continue running as usual. Yeoh added that residents can still visit, call or submit complaints through the Setiawangsa branch office at D’Wangsa, 1, Jalan Wangsa Delima 13, Wangsa Maju, 53300 Kuala Lumpur. The office operates Monday to Friday from 8am to 4.30pm. She said residents can also contact the office by phone at 03-4142 2740 or via email at pcsw.dbkl@gmail.com. The media reported that

Nik Nazmi, along with Pandan MP Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, announced their resignations on Sunday, effective yesterday. It was also reported that both MPs submitted documents regarding vacating their parliamentary seats to Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul yesterday. – Bernama

English medium for computer science, design subjects KUCHING: The Education Ministry has agreed for computer science and design subjects to be fully taught in English for Dual Language Programme (DLP) students in Sarawak beginning in 2029, the state legislative assembly was told. Bernama reported. “My ministry is working closely with the Sarawak Education Department and Education Ministry to ensure full readiness for implementation, including teacher preparedness and supporting delivery mechanisms.” completed under the RM1 billion allocation for the upgrading of dilapidated schools in Sarawak, involving the upgrading and refurbishment of school buildings aimed at improving safety and learning conditions for students across the state. He noted that the Sarawak Biodiversity Centre has continued to intensify its research and development efforts involving the state’s rich biodiversity resources. He said one of the promising initiatives involved Hellenia speciosa, locally known as Sulok Payo, Setawar Hutan or Setawar Putih

Sarawak Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn said the move marks an achievement in ensuring continuity for the DLP pathway, while strengthening science, technology, engineering and mathematics learning in the state,

“Addressing dilapidated schools remains a top priority. While education is under federal jurisdiction, my ministry, in collaboration with relevant agencies, will proactively monitor implementation and identify critical needs for intervention.”

Sagah said the state government remains committed to enhancing education delivery, particularly in equipping students with skills relevant to future industries and technological advancement. He also said 81 projects have been

It is a medicinal plant traditionally used by local communities in Sarawak for respiratory health and blood sugar control. “Building on traditional knowledge and scientific findings, the centre has

TUESDAY | MAY 19, 2026

5

Man claims trial over crash that left rider critical

Three migrants still missing after boat sinks PETALING JAYA: Three undocumented migrants remain missing after a small motorised wooden vessel, commonly known as a pom-pom boat, sank in the waters off Sabak Bernam on Saturday, prompting a large-scale search and rescue operation now entering its third day. In a statement yesterday, Selangor Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) director Maritime Capt Abdul Muhaimin Muhammad Salleh said the boat was carrying 19 migrants when it began leaking about 2.1 nautical miles southwest of Sungai Apong. He said authorities received a distress call at 4.45am from one of the crew members alerting them to the emergency. Following the report, the MMEA deployed patrol assets KM Bagan Datuk and Penggalang 41 to the location. “Penggalang 41 arrived at the scene and found the pom-pom boat had fully sunk at about 9am. Sixteen migrants were rescued while three remain missing. Search efforts are ongoing,” Abdul Muhaimin said. The rescued passengers comprised 10 men – two Bangladeshis and eight Indonesians – as well as six Indonesian women aged between 24 and 50. They were believed to have initially been rescued by a local fishing vessel before MMEA assets arrived at the scene. To coordinate operations, the MMEA established a forward base at Jeti Kelong Paradise as the central hub for all agencies involved. The operation, which began at 7am yesterday, covers a search radius of 236 square nautical miles and involves assets from the MMEA, Marine Police and Fire and Rescue Department. Abdul Muhaimin said the MMEA would continue strengthening enforcement and monitoring in Malaysian waters to curb cross border crimes, including migrant smuggling. “We will intensify operations to prevent human smuggling activities that threaten the security and sovereignty of our waters,” he said, while advising the maritime community to prioritise safety at sea. Members of the public with information on maritime crimes or emergencies can contact the Selangor MMEA operations centre at 013-660 6652 or dial 999. The incident is the latest in a series of pom pom boat cases in Selangor waters. On Jan 31, the MMEA intercepted a vessel carrying 80 undocumented migrants off Bagan Nakhoda Omar, where passengers were allegedly charged between RM1,500 and RM2,500 each depending on their destination. – By Faiz Ruzman S. Koreans charged over alleged kidnapping plot RAUB: Three South Korean men pleaded not guilty at the Sessions Court yesterday to charges of kidnapping a fellow countryman last month. The alleged offence also involved a ransom demand of USDT10 million – a cryptocurrency known as Tether, pegged to the US dollar – valued at about RM39.7 million. Kwon Kyungryul, 28, Kwak Jaeil, 40, and Kim Myeong Joon, 40, entered their pleas after the charges were read in Korean before Judge Noor Zaihan Mohamad Ali through a court interpreter. According to the charge, the three men allegedly acted with common intention in demanding the ransom after unlawfully confining and holding a 40 year-old South Korean man at KM16, Jalan Genting Highlands, Bentong, on April 17. They were charged under Section 3(1) of the Kidnapping Act 1961, which carries a jail sentence of between 30 and 40 years, as well as caning, upon conviction. Deputy public prosecutor Fathin Nadhirah Kasim requested a new mention date to allow for the submission of documents and the appointment of legal counsel for the accused. The court fixed June 29 for mention and ruled that no bail would be granted to the three accused. – Bernama

o Accused allegedly drove 3.5km against traffic with blood alcohol level nearly four times above legal limit

he said. The prosecution proposed bail of RM15,000. After hearing submissions from both parties, the magistrate granted bail at RM10,000 with one surety, ordered the suspension of the accused’s driving licence and directed him to report to the nearest police station twice a month. The court fixed July 30 for mention. Zulfiqar, the eldest of four siblings, was reportedly completing his final delivery of the night when he was allegedly struck. South Klang police chief ACP Lim Jit Huey said the accused was believed to have been speeding while under the influence of alcohol. He allegedly drove against the flow of traffic for about 3.5km from Port Klang towards Shah Alam before colliding with the victim, who was travelling in the correct lane. “The impact threw the victim off his motorcycle, leaving him seriously injured,” he said, adding that Zulfiqar remains in critical condition in the intensive care unit at Tengku Ampuan Rahimah Hospital. Police said the accused had no prior criminal or drug-related record, although screening confirmed he was intoxicated at the time of the incident.

Ű BY THE SUN TEAM newdesk@thesundaily.com

Low was charged under Section 44(1A) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for driving under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs and causing injury. If convicted, he faces between seven and 10 years’ imprisonment, a fine of between RM30,000 and RM50,000, and suspension of his driving licence. Deputy public prosecutor Nur Nadia Syuhada Rosli objected to bail, citing the seriousness of the offence and the victim’s condition. She also applied for the accused’s driving licence to be suspended pending disposal of the case. Defence counsel Ethan W.H. Tan appealed for lower bail, saying his client worked as a freelance assistant event planner earning between RM1,800 and RM2,000 monthly and was the sole breadwinner for his parents, aged 69 and 78. “My client will cooperate fully with the court and attend all future proceedings. He is not a flight risk and this is his first offence,”

KLANG: An alleged drunk driver accused of travelling 3.5km against traffic before crashing into a food delivery rider, leaving the victim fighting for his life, pleaded not guilty in court yesterday. Low Kean Peng, 35, claimed trial after the charge was read before Magistrate A. Karthiyayini at the Magistrate’s Court here. “I do not plead guilty. I want to go on trial, Puan,” he said. Dressed in a maroon T-shirt and black knee-length shorts, Low appeared calm as he was escorted into court in handcuffs. He is accused of driving with a blood alcohol level of 196mg per 100ml, far exceeding the legal limit of 50mg per 100ml, and causing grievous injuries to Zulfiqar Zamir Amirul Nizam, 27. The offence allegedly took place at 12.35am on May 13 along Persiaran Kota.

Shazeli (centre) showing the seized drugs during the press conference. – BERNAMAPIC

Cops smash four drug rings in RM17.8mil seizure SHAH ALAM: Police have crippled four drug trafficking syndicates operating around KL International Airport (KLIA) and Ampang following the seizure of 251.8kg of marijuana buds and syabu worth RM17.8 million in separate raids recently. for a European country. “The six foreign nationals, comprising three men and three women aged between 17 and 31, were arrested around KLIA Terminal 1. They were found to have entered the country using social visit passes. He said an inspection of the vehicle used by the suspect uncovered 79 plastic packages suspected to contain 79kg of syabu worth RM3.95 million.

Shazeli also cautioned the public against becoming drug mules by accepting offers to carry luggage or goods for others without knowing their contents. “Do not be easily deceived by promises of high payment, as such actions can lead to serious legal consequences,” he said in a statement yesterday. All suspects have been remanded for 14 days and investigations are being conducted under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. – Bernama

“One of them tested positive for THC and we believe they were paid between 3,000 euros (RM13,806) and 5,000 euros (RM23,010) for the trip,” he said at a press conference at the Selangor police contingent headquarters yesterday. In a separate case, Shazeli said a 22-year-old local man believed to be a drug courier was arrested in front of a premises in Ampang Jaya on May 11.

Selangor police chief Datuk Shazeli Kahar said six foreign nationals were arrested on May 6, 9 and 10 following the discovery of suspicious luggage during routine baggage screening at KLIA Terminal 1. He said all the suspects, believed to be linked to different syndicates, were found carrying 254 packages of marijuana buds weighing 172.8kg and valued at RM13.85 million inside nine pieces of luggage bound

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‘Notable shift in festive travel habits’

o Malaysians building richer experiences around balik kampung trips: Airbnb

drinks, 54% on groceries and local markets, while nearly half spend on local tours and experiences.” He added that the spending typically flows to micro and small enterprises such as family-run eateries, roadside vendors, local retailers, guides and transport providers. “These are smaller-scale transactions individually, but collectively they help sustain micro-economies across different parts of the country.” – By Kirtinee Ramesh travellers combine family obligations with leisure travel in ways that were far less common a decade ago. He said beyond the festive season, Airbnb is also observing a longer-term decentralisation of tourism in the country, with a rising demand for rural and non-urban destinations. “Nights stayed in non-urban destinations on Airbnb grew 15% in 2025, and nearly 80% of Malaysians visited a non-urban destination in the past year.” He also said the shift points to changing traveller priorities, particularly a growing preference for authentic and community-based experiences. “More than 90% of Malaysians surveyed indicated that authentic, community-based experiences are a priority when they travel.” Amanpreet said travellers are increasingly choosing destinations where they are able to slow down and engage with local culture, whether through nature escapes in Bentong, visits to traditional markets in Kelantan or exploring neighbourhood food spots in Ipoh. He added that Airbnb hosts are also playing a key role in shaping the experiences, with about 83% of guests in Malaysia receiving local recommendations directly from hosts, including food, cultural attractions and activities beyond mainstream tourist areas. “The recommendations influence where guests spend their time and money, helping distribute tourism benefits more evenly across communities.” He said ultimately Malaysians are becoming more intentional about how they travel. “What we’re seeing is not just a change in where travelers go, but in how they want to experience a destination.”

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s festive travel habits are shifting in a notable way, with the traditional balik kampung journey increasingly expanding into longer, experience-led trips that combine family reunions with leisure travel, according to Airbnb Country Head for Southeast Asia and India Amanpreet Bajaj. He said while homecoming remains deeply embedded in Malaysian culture, travellers are now using festive periods such as Chinese New Year, Ramadan and Hari Raya as opportunities to build more intentional experiences with loved ones. “Festive travel in Malaysia hasn’t moved away from tradition but has expanded around it,” he told theSun . “ Balik kampung remains a deeply held cultural practice but Malaysians are now building richer experiences around these journeys rather than simply making a trip home. “The festive period has become an opportunity to do more, together.” He also said the shift is being driven by several factors, including more flexible work arrangements, rising interest in non-urban destinations and changing expectations among younger travellers who are seeking more meaningful and personalised experiences.

Amanpreet said travellers are increasingly choosing destinations where they are able to slow down and engage with local culture. – SUN PIC

Amanpreet said the trend reflects how Malaysians are broadening their travel patterns while still holding on to the essence of festive traditions. “The shared moments such as breaking fast together or cooking for a large group haven’t changed. What has changed is that travellers are now looking for spaces that are able to support the experiences more comfortably.” He added that demand for entire houses, larger kitchens and family-friendly amenities has risen significantly during festive periods, as

This year’s overlap of Chinese New Year, Ramadan and Hari Raya also created an extended festive travel window, enabling Malaysians to travel further, stay longer and bring families together under one roof. Airbnb data showed Ramadan-related travel searches in Malaysia surged by more than 200% year-on-year, with travellers not only heading to major cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Ipoh and Malacca, but also increasingly exploring states such as Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and Perak.

Holiday surge boosting rural economies, small businesses PETALING JAYA: The country’s festive travel surge is delivering broader economic gains for rural communities and small businesses as more travellers move beyond traditional urban destinations, said Airbnb Country Head for Southeast Asia and India Amanpreet Bajaj. where individuals are going, it is what happens when they get there. He also said the trend is driving more balanced economic activity, particularly in communities outside established tourism corridors.

“Travel dispersal has a direct and meaningful impact on local economies, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas that wouldn’t traditionally see significant tourist spending.” Airbnb data showed a rise in nights stayed in non-urban destinations in Malaysia by 15% in 2025, with Bentong, Sepang and Cameron Highlands among locations recording higher search demand and longer stays.

Amanpreet said on average, travellers spend RM117 per person per trip in rural and non-urban destinations, with spending concentrated on food and beverages, groceries, local markets, tours and community-based experiences. “About 90% of travellers spend on food and

He added that the dispersal of travel is not only changing where Malaysians go during festive periods, but also how tourism spending is distributed across the country. “What’s most exciting about the shift isn’t just

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Philippines Senate convenes as impeachment court

Train driver charged after bus collision

BANGKOK: The driver of a train that collided with a bus in Thailand’s capital, killing eight people, has tested positive for drugs and was charged with reckless driving, police said yesterday. The freight train crashed into the public bus on Saturday afternoon at a busy junction in Bangkok, with the vehicle bursting into flames and 30 people left injured, authorities said. Police charged the train driver, who was also injured, and a railway guard on Sunday with negligence causing injury and death, said Urumporn Koondejsumrit, chief of the police station where the crash occurred. Both denied the charge. Urumporn said an initial urine test of the driver found illicit drugs in his system. Further testing would include the other driver and a technician aboard the train. Bangkok police chief Siam Boonsom said on Sunday that there was traffic congestion at the crossing daily, but never an accident. earthquake struck south China’s Guangxi region yesterday, killing two people and causing 13 buildings to collapse. The quake hit Guangxi’s Liuzhou city at 12.21am (same time in Malaysia), Xinhua news agency reported. The US Geological Survey recorded a lower magnitude of 5.0. State broadcaster CCTV identified the deceased as a couple: a 63-year-old man and a 53-year-old woman. A 91-year-old man who was missing earlier was found after search and rescue efforts and sent to the hospital for treatment, CCTV said. A video published by the broadcaster showed a team of

difficult,” said Ederson Tapia, public administration professor at the University of Makati. Dela Rosa’s return from six months in hiding created drama that has gripped the Philippines, with the former police chief taking refuge for days in the heavily guarded Senate before a warning of his imminent arrest led to pandemonium, gunfire and his escape hours later. As chief enforcer of the former president’s drugs crackdown, dela Rosa, 64, is accused of crimes against humanity. The Marcos administration on Friday confirmed it will seek his arrest. Dela Rosa, whose whereabouts are unknown, denies wrongdoing and has sought a Supreme Court injunction to block his arrest, arguing there is no legal basis to serve a warrant from a foreign court. – Reuters

It is unclear when the trial will start. Marcos has distanced himself from her impeachment, saying it is a legislative matter. Marcos and Duterte are both scions of powerful political families who ran together in the 2022 election. But cracks soon appeared in their alliance, leading to an acrimonious fallout and Marcos handing her father over to the ICC. Analysts say the Senate leadership change triggered by dela Rosa’s return may have shifted the balance of power in a chamber that counts Duterte loyalists and aligned politicians among its 24 members, who will serve as jurors. A conviction requires two-thirds support. “Given that we now have a new majority, thanks to the efforts of Senator Bato, it would make prosecuting Vice-President Sara in the impeachment court a little more

o Vice-president Sara Duterte faces trial

MANILA: The Philippine Senate convened as an impeachment court yesterday to decide the future of Vice-President Sara Duterte. The trial will be a high-stakes event that could either kill off Duterte’s 2028 presidential hopes, or strengthen her position as lead contender to succeed her rival, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, who is constitutionally barred from running again. It comes against a turbulent political backdrop, just days after chaos and a shootout in the upper house and a potentially decisive change in its leadership, both stemming from the re-emergence from hiding of a pro-Duterte senator wanted by the International Criminal Court.

Just as lawmakers prepared to vote to impeach Duterte in the lower house on May 11, politician Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa reappeared to cast a crucial Senate vote to install Duterte loyalist Alan Peter Cayetano as Senate president, effectively making Cayetano the presiding officer for the impeachment trial. Duterte is undergoing her biggest political test and faces a ban from holding office if convicted in the trial, which comes as her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, awaits his own trial at the ICC over his “war on drugs”. Sara Duterte, 47, is accused of misusing public funds, amassing unexplained wealth and threatening the lives of Marcos, his wife and an ex-speaker. She denies wrongdoing.

Police were reviewing footage of the scene to determine whether the guard was negligent. – AFP Quake kills two in south China BEIJING: A 5.2-magnitude

rescue workers carrying the injured man onto a stretcher. Authorities had evacuated over 7,000 people from the area, CCTV said. Other videos from CCTV showed people fleeing high-rise buildings and piles of rubble next to destroyed homes. Rescue workers were seen trudging through the debris, while their dogs tried to sniff out signs of life. Emergency workers wearing helmets were also seen using earthmovers to clear the wreckage. Earthquakes in China are relatively common. In January 2025, a devastating quake in the remote Tibet killed at least 126 people and damaged thousands of buildings. – AFP

Prabowo points to a weapon during a handover ceremony at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base in Jakarta. – REUTERSPIC

Fighter jet boost for Indonesia JAKARTA: President Prabowo Subianto said yesterday that Indonesia will continue to build up its defence capabilities as the strengthening its defence capabilities. “We must continue to improve our defence capabilities to serve as a deterrent. We do not have any interests other than protecting our own territory,” he told reporters.

the nation’s sovereignty. “The government views the strengthening of defence equipment not merely as the procurement of combat platforms, but as a strategic investment aimed at safeguarding sovereignty, national honour and national defence readiness,” he said. Prabowo, a former military general who came to power in 2024, has sought to modernise Indonesia’s ageing military assets. He met French President Emmanuel Macron last month in Paris, where the two leaders discussed bolstering strategic cooperation, including through the “procurement of defence equiment and the strengthening of the defence industry”, according to an Indonesian government statement. – AFP

government handed over equipment including six French-made Rafale jets to the military. Prabowo presided over a handover ceremony at a military airbase in Jakarta, where he inspected recently acquired defence equipment including four Dassault Falcon 8x and an Airbus A400M Atlas aircraft, according to a presidential palace statement. Jakarta signed a US$8.1 billion (RM32 billion) deal in 2022 under then defence minister Prabowo to buy 42 French-made Rafale fighters. Prabowo said after the ceremony yesterday that Indonesia will keep

“We observe that the geopolitical landscape is fraught with uncertainty, and we recognise that defence is a primary prerequisite for stability.” Indonesia received the first batch of three Rafale jets in January, and yesterday’s ceremony included an additional three jets for the military, said Defence Ministry spokesman Rico Ricardo Sirait. He underscored the jets’ importance to strengthen Indonesia’s air defence system and claimed that defence equipment modernisation was also an investment to safeguard

Rescuers walking past a collapsed building in Liuzhou, Guangxi yesterday. – AFPPIC