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No. 9161 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the programme would be implemented in selected schools, particularly after major examinations. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

Govt launching school-based skills development programmes to build early financial independence and reduce growing social issues. page 3 Future-proof girls

INSIDE

Jeeps, pickups added to diesel subsidy scheme.

Malaysia navigating hurdles in used lithium battery recycling.

Sarawak native groups demand immediate halt to logging.

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/thesuntelegram FOLLOW / Malaysian Paper

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NATIONAL 2 theSun on Sunday MAY 24, 2026

Speak up against hate narratives, urges PM

Anwar pushes for better

financial outreach to traders

‘It is time for peace-loving majority to voice out and not let minority of individuals spread slander, instil fear in people’

here yesterday. Also present were Transport Minister Anthony Loke, who is also co-chairman of the discourse organisers, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh and Malaysian Buddhist Consultative Council president Lillian Chang. Anwar said since the formation of the nation under the leadership of the first Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, Malaysia has been built on the foundation of “unity enhances strength”, recognising the reality of racial and religious diversity. He said although the Malay and Bumiputera communities

operational requirements and existing monthly fuel usage records in the system since approval was granted,” he said. He encouraged companies in the public land transport, land goods transport and public water transport sectors that have not yet enjoyed petrol and diesel subsidies to register under the Subsidised Petrol Control System and Subsidised Diesel Control System. Armizan said all companies receiving fuel subsidy benefits under the two systems must use their fleet cards responsibly. “Any misuse will result in the immediate suspension of the fleet card and the company concerned being blacklisted.” – Bernama form the majority, and Islam is enshrined as the federal religion in the Constitution, the country continues to be developed based on mutual respect and appreciation for one another. “Within the framework of Malaysia Madani, we are not charting something new, but continuing the agenda set by the founding fathers of the nation,” he said. In this regard, Anwar said national development should not focus solely on technology, digitalisation and innovation, but must also be grounded in values, ethics and conscience rooted in religious teachings. He stressed that the concept of love and compassion found in all religions must be translated into daily life, rather than replaced with hatred and division. At the same time, he said current challenges also stem from a lack of understanding, leading to hasty judgements, including the use of religious sentiments on social media and in the political arena to sow hatred, Bernama reported. Commenting on issues of social and economic justice, Anwar stressed that he fully supports efforts to help the Bumiputera community, who are still poor, but at the same time, assistance must be channelled to all needy Malaysians regardless of race. He said the country must help the needy as one large family while also having the courage to acknowledge weaknesses, including issues of corruption and share misappropriation involving tens of billions of ringgit. The prime minister also stressed that the government will continue to respect and support Wesak Day celebrations in the years ahead.

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged relevant agencies to intensify ground efforts to provide explanations and assistance to small and medium traders who are still unaware of financing facilities and aid provided by the government. Anwar, who is also Finance minister, said the matter was important to ensure the group is not left out from the various initiatives created specifically to help increase their income and expand their businesses. “There are some who are still unaware of the facilities available. So I ask the relevant agencies to go to the ground and provide explanations,” he said after visiting the Taman Melawati Farmers’ Market here yesterday. He said hawkers and small traders should continue to be given attention, as they number hundreds of thousands but still lacking a strong platform to voice their views. Regarding his visit, Anwar said the feedback he received from hawkers and small traders was generally very positive, with most expressing gratitude for the opportunity to obtain micro-financing facilities provided by the government and its agencies. “Most are already very grateful and thankful to the agencies that helped them, even for a RM10,000 loan,” said the prime minister. Anwar added that most of them were more focused on earning a living than complaining about the challenges they faced. Among the issues raised by traders was the relatively high price of certain essential goods. However, agencies like the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority could help by providing supplies at more affordable prices, he added. – Bernama

KUALA Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on the peace loving majority to speak up against narratives of hatred and slander being propagated by a minority group against society in the country. He said the current situation appeared to reflect a “tyranny of the minority”, where a small group of loud, angry individuals who spread slander were attempting to impose their will on the majority of the people. LUMPUR:

“Now, it is the noisy minority stirring up emotions. They gather, sow hatred, spread slander and instil fear in others. This seems like a tyranny of the minority. The oppression and cruelty of a small group forcing the larger group (majority). “The time has come for the majority to speak from their conscience to save our country and advance together,” he said in his keynote address at the Madani Harmony Discourse in conjunction with Wesak Day

Anwar flanked by Loke and Yeoh at the event. – BERNAMAPIC

Diesel subsidy benefits to include jeeps, pickup trucks nationwide KUNDASANG: The government has agreed to enhance the mechanism for implementing diesel subsidy distribution under the Subsidised Diesel Control System by expanding eligibility to include jeeps and pickup trucks for the land goods transport sector nationwide, effective June 1. apply to register under the system,” he said here yesterday. He added that the government had also agreed to extend diesel subsidy benefits under the system to jeeps and pickup trucks previously registered under individual ownership, subject to approval for the transfer of ownership to a company. “The total quota allocation is determined based on an analysis of transport usage patterns throughout the two-year implementation period of the system. The revised fixed quota rates for each fleet card will take effect on June 1,” he said.

fulfil other eligibility requirements, including transferring vehicle ownership from an individual to a company through the Road Transport Department,” he added. Armizan said the government had also agreed to revise the fixed quota limits under the subsidised system for the land goods transport sector as part of efforts to strengthen regulatory and enforcement mechanisms to curb subsidy leakage and misuse of fleet cards. “Each fleet card will be allocated a fixed quota ranging from 900 litres to 5,000 litres per month, depending on the quota limit set for 23 categories of vehicles in the land goods transport sector.

He added that companies requiring fuel usage beyond the stipulated limit may submit appeals for quota increases to the Petroleum Subsidy Approval Committee, which is managed by the ministry. “Appeals can be submitted online via email at mysubsidi@kpdn.gov.my or at the nearest ministry’s office. “Applications will be assessed based on the justification of actual

Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said the decision was made during the Cabinet meeting on May 20. “Previously, eligibility for such vehicles was limited to the Cameron Highlands area. Beginning June 1, 2026, companies in the land goods transport sector nationwide that own jeeps and pickup trucks may

“Individual operators involved in land goods transport are encouraged to register their companies or businesses with the Companies Commission of Malaysia, the Malaysia Cooperative Societies Commission, or relevant authorities in Sabah and Sarawak in accordance with state laws. “In addition, applicants must

NATIONAL 3 theSun on Sunday MAY 24, 2026

Support stricter monitoring, childcare operators urged

‘Bill must effectively improve welfare of elderly’

Regular inspections needed to ensure compliance and protection of children’s wellbeing, says association chief

PETALING Malaysia’s upcoming Senior Citizen Bill must deliver real protection for the elderly by tackling pressing issues such as elder abuse, financial insecurity, healthcare access, mental health support and long-term care services, said The Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye. He said the proposed legislation is timely and crucial as Malaysia moves steadily towards becoming an ageing nation and welcomed the government’s move to table the Bill in the next Parliament meeting next month. “This is a crucial step towards safeguarding the rights and welfare of older persons. Many senior citizens today continue to face neglect, abandonment, loneliness, rising living costs, poor healthcare access and social isolation, with some left without adequate family support or protection systems. “We hope the government will ensure that the final legislation is not merely symbolic but truly effective in improving the quality of life, dignity, independence and wellbeing of senior citizens throughout the country. Lee also stressed the need for stronger mechanisms to protect elderly individuals from physical, emotional and financial abuse. “At the same time, senior citizens should not be viewed as a burden to society. “They are valuable members of the nation who have contributed significantly to the country’s development through their experience, sacrifices and wisdom,” he said. Lee added that the legislation should encourage stronger family and community responsibility in caring for the elderly while promoting active ageing and greater participation of senior citizens in society. “Malaysia must prepare itself comprehensively for the demographic changes ahead to avoid facing a major social and healthcare crisis in the future.” Lee also stressed the importance of comprehensive consultations with senior citizens’ groups, healthcare professionals, social welfare experts, NGOs, caregivers, and community leaders before the Bill is finalised. He said such engagement is necessary to ensure the law is practical, inclusive and capable of addressing the real needs faced by elderly individuals from different backgrounds and communities. The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry announcing on Thursday it is pushing to table the long-awaited Senior Citizens Bill at the upcoming Parliament meeting, although its progress remains subject to final procedural clearance and continued review by the Attorney General’s Chambers. – BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI JAYA:

financially independent women in the country. “They can test their skills, and in the future, they can sell products and generate income.” She said the programme would be implemented in collaboration with district education offices and carried out in selected schools, particularly after major examinations, subject to coordination and approval from relevant authorities. “We have targeted schools for this initiative, but it depends on the ministries involved, as we need to work with the education offices in the respective areas. “If approved, students would take part in the initiative for two to three days after sitting for their are distressing, they have raised awareness on the importance of choosing registered and quality childcare centres, calling it a positive development for the industry where child safety remains the top priority. “What is most important is that all parties sincerely view childcare, child protection as an investment in the nation’s future, in line with the aspirations of the CRC, the Child Protection Policy and the Child Act 2001.” She said stronger enforcement will help improve the image of the industry and raise the professionalism of quality childcare services, while also ensuring fairness to operators who comply with existing laws. Meanwhile, childcare centre operator Haliza Karim, 58, said she is always prepared to receive inspections from the Welfare Department, as it is important to ensure that safety, hygiene and management standards are consistently met. “However, overly frequent surprise inspections may slightly disrupt daily operations as well as children’s routines. “In my view, periodic inspections, such as once every four months, would be sufficient to ensure effective monitoring without affecting the smooth running of childcare centres,” she added. Haliza advised parents to check a childcare centre’s registration status, visit the premises, observe the environment and caregiver-to child ratios, and see how caregivers interact with children. She said recommendations

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING government will introduce school-based skills development programmes for girls nationwide this year as part of efforts to enhance their economic empowerment, said Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. She said the initiative aims to equip girls with practical skills before they complete school, enabling them to earn income and achieve financial independence in the future. Nancy added that the programme is part of broader efforts to reduce social issues through women’s empowerment and increase the number of PETALING JAYA: Childcare centre operators back stricter monitoring, including surprise inspections, to improve child safety and regulatory compliance, saying it should not be seen as purely punitive. Registered Early Childhood Care and Development Association of Malaysia president Adjunct Professor Norsheila Abdullah said registered childcare operators should be prepared for and support such inspections, as transparency is essential given they have already undergone registration and training. She stated that regular monitoring ensures compliance with the Child Care Centre Act 1984, the Child Act 2001, and the “best interests of the child” principle under Unicef’s Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC).” “Inspections are not meant as punishment, but to ensure that safety, hygiene, proper caregiver ratios, documentation and children’s wellbeing are met. “Centres with Child Protection Policies should see enforcement as a way to strengthen parents’ confidence in the childcare industry,” she added. Norsheila said parental awareness has increased following several viral child abuse cases, with parents now more proactive in checking registration status, CCTV, safety SOPs, caregiver qualifications and child protection measures. She said while the incidents JAYA: The

Norsheila said stronger enforcement will help improve the image of the industry and raise the professionalism of quality childcare services. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

childcare headlines, complying

centres despite

make already existing

from friends, neighbours or colleagues are also helpful, with most enrolments at her own centre coming through referrals. “I also agree that the community and neighbours also play an important role in reporting suspicious childcare centres for the safety of children. “However, every report should be investigated transparently and fairly. For example, crying or shouting from children is normal in childcare centres as they are still young and adjusting to their environment and emotions.” Haliza said stricter action should be taken against unregistered childcare centres to protect children’s safety, but licence renewal processes and costs, especially from local authorities, should be simplified and reduced to ease operators’ burden and encourage registration. Another childcare centre operator in Shah Alam, Syamila Aimi Yahaya, 36, said registered operators often feel anxious whenever cases involving examinations. If they are not strong academically, they would be equipped with practical skills for their future,” she said. Nancy said the ministry is also expanding cooperation with NGOs, including Rotary International, to support community welfare initiatives and address social issues. She also highlighted that efforts are being made to increase volunteer participation in assisting vulnerable groups, including homebound welfare recipients who need support such as transport and daily assistance. “We have the Home Help Service, where volunteers receive a small allowance. “They are dedicated individuals

with

guidelines. “As registered operators, we sometimes feel uneasy and confused about what further enforcement will be introduced, even though we are already doing our best according to the guidelines,” she said. She stressed that enforcement should be carried out fairly and not be applied across the board, adding that childcare workers should not be judged based on isolated incidents. “I hope enforcement is done fairly and not generalised. It is unfair to hardworking teachers who care for the children sincerely but are sometimes viewed negatively because of a few isolated cases,” she said. Syamila called for more training for operators and caregivers, simpler registration processes, and regular counselling sessions for childcare staff to help them manage emotional and work-related stress. who help support those who are homebound.” We are aslo strengthening this programme further, she added. “Malaysia has nearly one million single mothers and single women, many of whom carry dual responsibilities as caregivers and sole income earners. “However, only a small number are formally registered within support systems, leaving many without adequate assistance,” she said. She added that the ministry continues to support single mothers through the KasihniTA programme, which provides financial literacy, psychosocial support and legal assistance. – BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI

School-based skills plan to empower female students

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NATIONAL 4 theSun on Sunday MAY 24, 2026

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M’sia faces mounting lithium battery disposal challenge

Over 27,000 cattle imported for Aidiladha PADANG BESAR: More than 27,000 cattle have been imported to meet demand for the upcoming Hari Raya Aidiladha celebration, with all livestock undergoing strict screening and quarantine procedures by the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (Maqis). Its deputy director-general Dr Azhari Sharidan Abu Bakar said the department guarantees that all cattle, most of which were imported from Thailand, are disease-free and safe to be sold and slaughtered for the qurban ritual. He said the livestock were monitored throughout a 14-day quarantine period for signs of foot and mouth disease and lumpy skin disease. “These two are among the main diseases we monitor throughout the quarantine,” he told Bernama at the Maqis Animal Quarantine Station in Padang Besar. Azhari Sharidan also said the department has recorded the import of about 1,000 buffaloes so far in preparation for the upcoming Hari Raya Haji celebrations. Meanwhile, he stressed that all livestock must pass Maqis screening procedures to control animal diseases and protect public health and safety, while urging importers to strictly comply with regulations. He explained that some importers house their cattle at private quarantine premises approved by Maqis instead of government stations, although Maqis officers continue conducting regular monitoring. If government quarantine stations are full, cattle may be quarantined at private premises or the importer’s own location, subject to prior approval from Maqis and compliance with all stipulated conditions and procedures. He admitted that cases of non compliance still occur, particularly when cattle are removed and sold before completing the mandatory 14-day quarantine period. Maqis recorded one such case last year and two the year before, with action able to be taken under the Quarantine and Inspection Services Act 2011.

Penang initiative aims to strengthen recycling network amid rising waste

points, the programme also offers house-to-house e-waste collection services and battery buy-back schemes to reach households unable to access drop-off centres. The initiative also plans to expand collection points to shopping malls, retailers and commercial premises as more rechargeable devices enter the market. Techom director Tan Yeow Chuan said the company handles scheduled waste, including lithium batteries and electronic waste, at its facilities in Bukit Minyak. He said recycling and recovery processes include collection, sorting, dismantling and material recovery before reusable materials are extracted for industrial use. Tan said materials recovered from used batteries include lithium, cobalt, nickel, manganese, copper and aluminium, which can be reused in manufacturing new batteries and electronics. “These recovered materials reduce the need for new mining

operations and help close the loop in battery production,” he said. On electric vehicle (EV) battery lifespan, Tan said EV batteries generally last between five and eight years before requiring replacement or disposal, with larger numbers expected to enter the recycling cycle before 2030. “We need to prepare the infrastructure now to handle the wave of EV batteries that will need recycling within the next few years,” he said. Road Transport Department data previously showed EV registrations in Malaysia more than doubled in 2025, raising expectations of larger volumes of battery waste in the coming years. Meanwhile, Riiicycle founder Chew Chin Huat said the programme connects consumers, collectors, aggregators and recyclers to track where discarded batteries end up after collection. “We are building an ecosystem for collection across the entire supply chain – from consumer to recycler – with full traceability,” he told theSun. He said the system ensures recyclable materials are sent to licensed recyclers instead of “illegal players” who may improperly handle waste. “About 800 tonnes of recyclable items, including batteries, e-waste and used cooking oil, have been collected since early 2024, based on invoices and average weight estimates,” Chew said. The programme also offers rewards allowing users to exchange recyclable items for e wallet credit or vouchers through the Riiicycle mobile app as an incentive for proper disposal. Smart bins equipped with sensors, AI-assisted e-waste bins and used cooking oil collection bins have also been introduced as part of the recycling operations. In terms of limestone hill distribution in Peninsular Malaysia, Kelantan recorded the highest number with 298 hills, followed by Pahang with 183, Kedah with 173, Perak with 138 and Perlis with 103. Selangor and Terengganu each recorded three hills, Negeri Sembilan had two and Johor one. FRIM, which received funding from the National Conservation Trust Fund for Natural Resources for projects in Kelantan and Perlis, as well as Rapid Biodiversity Assessment funding for Batu Caves, presented an update on the status of limestone hill ecosystems at the National Biodiversity Council meeting on July 29, 2024. – Bernama

future,” he said at the launch of the Rechargeable Battery Circularity Programme and Kitar Hub initiative in Penang on Friday. Describing the initiative as “structured and technology driven”, Sundarajoo said both the state government and the Penang Green Council have consistently supported environmental initiatives promoting sustainability, innovation and community participation. The programme is led by Techom Metal Sdn Bhd, which manages battery recycling and recovery processes, while collection operations are handled by Riiicycle Tech Sdn Bhd. The collection network currently comprises about 70 bins and stations across Penang and Kuala Lumpur, including 31 located at high-rise residential buildings for easier public access. Apart from fixed collection

Ű BY T.C. KHOR newsdesk@thesundaily.com

GEORGE TOWN: Used lithium batteries from mobile phones, power banks and electric vehicles are piling up faster than Malaysia can recycle them. Penang Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu said many people still dispose of lithium batteries carelessly, posing serious environmental and safety risks if not properly managed. “Sustainability requires collective participation and cannot be achieved by the government alone. “Strong collaboration between the government, industries, recyclers, technology providers and the public is essential in building a more sustainable

Sundarajoo (third from left), Tan (fifth from left) and Chew (right) during the launch. – PIC COURTESY OF PENANG GREEN COUNCIL

FRIM steps up conservation of rare limestone flora KUALA LUMPUR: Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) is spearheading efforts to conserve and document the country’s limestone flora, which supports rich biodiversity and is home to numerous endemic and endangered species not found elsewhere in nature. balsams and several types of orchids. “To date, around 1,300 limestone plant species have been identified in Peninsular Malaysia, accounting for about 14% of the country’s total flora across an estimated 908 recorded limestone hills,” the statement said. FRIM said threats from identifying and assessing plant diversity and conservation status, while helping prioritise areas for protection. FRIM said under the flora documentation project of Peninsular Malaysia, which began in 2005, several new species have been recorded, including Gymnostachyum kanthanense,

fern Asplenium merapohense in Merapoh, Pahang, and Coleus hairulii in Kedah. The research also highlighted endangered endemic species such as Impatiens vinosa and Begonia jayaensis , which are facing serious habitat disturbance, while documenting new orchid discoveries including Didymoplexis micradenia and Chiloschista exuperei in Perak, Sohmaea teres in Kedah and Exacum tenue in Kelantan. As a proactive measure, FRIM prepared a discussion paper for the 3rd National Biodiversity Council meeting in August 2016 proposing closer collaboration with state governments to conduct limestone biodiversity research.

development, quarrying, mining and land-use changes are being addressed under Target 8 of the National Policy on Biological Diversity 2022–2030, in line with Malaysia’s commitment to protect at least 30% of its land area as protected zones by 2030. To address these challenges, FRIM said flora documentation plays an important role in recording,

In a statement issued in conjunction with the International Day for Biological Diversity, FRIM said the initiative is crucial as limestone ecosystems, formed over millions of years, provide habitats for plants specially adapted to thin, dry, alkaline and nutrient-poor soils. Among the species commonly found in these areas are begonias,

Meiogyne kanthaensis and Vatica kanthanensis at Mount Kanthan, Perak, in 2014. Between 2016 and 2024, discoveries also included Impatiens chikuensis, I. glaricola, I. vinosa, Coleus rafidahiae and Gymnostachyum calcicola in Kelantan, as well as the orchid Thrixspermum merapohense and

NATIONAL 5 theSun on Sunday MAY 24, 2026

Johor Immigration Dept removes counter numbers to curb graft

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) yesterday held the Malaysian Polygraph Seminar: The Role of Polygraph in Employment Screening at the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Academy (Maca). In a statement, MACC said the seminar aimed to enhance understanding of polygraph technology as a support tool for employment screening, organisational integrity management and security-related investigations. Among the speakers were ASP Ahmad Shahrulazmi Mazni from the Special Branch, ASP Mohammad Firdaus Ashaari from the Narcotics Crime Investigation Department, MACC Polygraph team coordinator Norhakimin Brahim and Dr Salwa Zolkaful from Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM). The seminar was attended by 60 participants from enforcement agencies, statutory bodies and government-linked companies, including police, the Armed Forces, Air Force, Customs Department and the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry. Other participants included representatives from the Immigration Department, Health Ministry, UiTM, Tenaga Nasional Berhad and XSpec Technology. In his opening speech, Maca deputy director of academic and basic training Mohd Saud Ayutollah Abdul Manan said the seminar marked an important step in strengthening national knowledge and best practices in the field. He stressed that cross-agency sharing of expertise must continue to strengthen strategic collaboration in combating crime, misconduct and integrity-related issues. He also expressed hope that similar seminars would continue to be organised on a larger scale through research, colloquiums and academic programmes to further develop expertise and maximise the potential of polygraph technology in Malaysia. – Bernama MACC explores wider use of polygraph technology Mohd Rusdi, has yielded positive results, with the state’s main air terminal now recording zero cases and no complaints related to such misconduct. He said last year, 20 officers faced disciplinary action for involvement in counter-setting activities, while five others were penalised over flying passport offences. On the disciplinary measures, Mohd Rusdi said firm action served as a deterrent and warning to other officers against engaging in similar misconduct.

substantial bribes. “As a countermeasure, we took the bold step of removing all counter numbers at our entry points. Now, these counters no longer display any numbers,” he told Bernama recently. Mohd Rusdi said the initiative was implemented through close cooperation between the Johor department and operators of major entry points, including the management of Senai International Airport and sea entry terminals. He said the operators gave full

support to the proposal to ensure there were no loopholes left for syndicates to exploit. “When the counter numbers are removed, travellers will simply proceed to any available counter based on the type of transaction, without knowing which officer is on duty. This automatically curbs counter-setting activities because syndicates can no longer pre-arrange the counters,” he said. The strategy, introduced through a special committee meeting on counter-setting and flying passport issues chaired by

lacking integrity. He said the syndicates were found to have provided undocumented migrants with advance instructions before arriving in the country, directing them to proceed to specific counters without knowing the identity of the officer on duty. “The syndicates would instruct these travellers, for example, ‘once you get off the plane, head straight to counter seven’. At the designated counter, their illegal entry process would be handled by officers who had received

JOHOR An unconventional tactic by the Johor Immigration Department involving the removal of all counter number signs at southern border entry points has proven effective in reducing complaints of counter setting misconduct involving its officers and personnel. Its director Datuk Mohd Rusdi Mohd Darus said the measure was introduced after the department uncovered tactics used by syndicates to facilitate the entry of foreign nationals through a network of internal personnel BAHRU:

Upper Baram communities oppose continued logging

BARAM: Communities in Upper Baram, Sarawak are insisting that logging activities in their area be brought to an end. The logging activities are ongoing despite legal action, voicing of human rights concerns, large scale environmental degradation and protests by affected communities. Seven communities – Long Moh, Long Semiyang, Lio Mato, Long Siut/Long Tungan, Long Sepigen, Long Kerong and Long Sait – have rejected all activities carried out on their Native Customary Rights land without their consent. In a letter submitted at the end of March to the Sarawak premier, the Forest Department of Sarawak and a timber logging company, the communities claimed they had yet to receive any response to their formal objections and concerns. Although forest certification is required for all Sarawak timber concessions under the Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme, the communities alleged that the company continues operating without such certification. In a joint statement, the communities also claimed Residents claim operations persist despite protests and environmental concerns voiced Ű BY ANDREW SAGAYAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

The affected communities have called on relevant parties to respect their decisions, uphold indigenous rights and immediately cease any actions that violate their autonomy and land rights. – PIC COURTESY OF SARAWAK NATIVE NGOS

towards a green economy, indigenous communities in Upper Baram continue facing encroachment, opaque surveys and threats of forest degradation. “Logging activities without Free, Prior and Informed Consent should not be allowed. Forests should remain in the hands of their true custodians. “There should be no more logging, regardless of whether it is labelled sustainable or reduced-impact logging,” he said. Through the joint statement, the seven communities firmly reaffirmed their rejection of any logging activities by the company within their areas. They also called on all relevant parties to respect their decisions, uphold indigenous rights and immediately cease any actions that violate their autonomy and land rights.

highlighting their resistance signed by community representatives also raised concerns over divisive practices. “This includes alleged meetings and negotiations involving only selected or externally appointed community leaders, without consulting the majority of the community for their consent. “The communities’ concerns point to a stark contradiction between ongoing logging pressures on the ground and the Sarawak government’s recently articulated ‘Beyond Timber’ strategy, which presents forests as strategic assets for carbon storage, biodiversity conservation, ecosystem services and sustainable livelihoods,” he said. Meanwhile, indigenous rights lawyer Roland Engan said while Sarawak promotes a transition

surveys appeared to have been conducted without Free, Prior and Informed Consent, further deepening mistrust towards the parties concerned. Keruan director Komeok Joe said the communities unequivocally reject such activities. He said they also refused to hold negotiations with representatives from the company and the Forest Department on their territories, signalling that the parties are not welcome to enter the area. “The Penan and Kenyah people reject this approach. Legitimate representation must come from collectively recognised and elected community leaders, not government-appointed leaders who fail to represent the community,” said Komeok. He added that the letter

Teacher held in probe on sexual assault involving nine-year-old pupil MERSING: Police have arrested a teacher to assist in investigations into a sexual assault case involving a nine-year-old schoolboy. Mersing police chief Supt Abdul Razak Abdullah Sani said the 31-year-old suspect was arrested at 5.50pm on Thursday following a police report lodged over the alleged incident. “A mobile phone was also seized, and investigations are still at an early stage,” he said in a statement. Abdul Razak said the suspect has been remanded for five days under Section 117 of the Criminal Procedure Code to facilitate investigations. The case is being investigated under Sections 14(a) and 14(d) of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017. - Bernama

NATIONAL 6 theSun on Sunday MAY 24, 2026

Immortalising soul of demolished building

LANGKAWI: Piles of timber, aged beams and construction debris left behind at the site of the old Kuah Hospital and Clinic may appear worthless to some, but to young architect Muhammad Ismail Rahim, they carry stories waiting to be told. Through his installation artwork titled “Nafas Tanah” (Breath of the Earth), the 34 year-old artist breathes new life into the physical remnants of the old building, transforming them into a medium that revives memories and reconnects the community with a space slowly disappearing from Langkawi’s landscape. Muhammad Ismail, from Kemaman in Terengganu, said witnessing the demolition of the old hospital firsthand left a deep emotional impact on him and prompted him to salvage pieces of the structure. “I often talk about how we frequently demolish old buildings with historical value, but when it happened right before my eyes, I felt compelled to do something. “The most immediate thing I could do at the moment was to gather as much material as possible, such as wood, stones

Architect-artist turns fragments of old hospital into exhibition display as tribute to Langkawi landscape

experience the uniqueness of Terengganu’s culture and way of life. Among them are kite competitions featuring various states, gamelan performances, rubber seed and betel nut spinning top game, batik -making demonstrations, mengkuang weaving, wood carving and Laksa Terengganu cooking demonstrations. “This programme also supports the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign while promoting Visit Terengganu 2027. “Next year, we will increase the number of activities to attract more visitors, especially from abroad,” he said. – Berrnama assistance from local craftsmen. “For me, this artwork serves as a bridge before something disappears completely and before it transforms into something new. It is like a temporary monument marking that phase of loss.” The father of two added that the installation also functions as a “memory holder” for a place that is no longer part of Langkawi’s physical landscape. Even after the exhibition ends, the structure will be repurposed as a resting platform and handed to the Langkawi Senior Citizens Activity Centre for community use. “If these materials had not been collected, everything would simply have vanished without a trace,” he said.

“In the Terengganu dialect, ‘Musing Ketang’ means walking back and forth within an area. Musing Ketang @ Kampung Budaya Terengganu refers to strolling or moving around the event site. “We are targeting 10,000 visitors for the three-day programme,” he said after officiating at the programme launch on Friday. The opening ceremony was officiated by State Tourism, Culture, Environment and Climate Change Committee deputy chairman Sulaiman Sulong. Tengku Mohd Ariffin said 20 recreational and cultural activities have been lined up for visitors to longer in use. But throughout my time in Langkawi, the demolition continued gradually. “When I returned in February, the entire site had already been flattened. I managed to collect some of the wood and materials that could still be salvaged. The challenge was figuring out how to give them a new meaning.” Muhammad Ismail said he initially planned to build a wakaf (traditional resting platform) for public use, but various site limitations eventually led the idea to evolve into a temporary installation instead. He said the artwork required him to reorganise and reconstruct the uneven pieces of reclaimed timber, and took about five days to complete with

holds a Master’s degree in Architecture from Universiti Teknologi Mara Puncak Alam, said his background as an architect strongly influences the way he interprets spaces and structures. To him, the old Kuah Hospital and Clinic was far more than an abandoned building. It embodied layers of memory, history and long-standing community connections.

and construction materials, before everything disappeared,” he told Bernama recently. Nafas Tanah is being showcased as part of the 29th edition of Bakat Muda Sezaman (BMS29) exhibition, organised by the National Art Gallery, which runs until July 26 at several locations around Langkawi, including Pantai Taman Lagenda, Pulau Tuba Jetty, an abandoned building near the Kuah night market site and the Teluk Kedak Lake Recreational Park. Muhammad Ismail, who

“When I attended the BMS29 workshop in November last year, the building was still standing, although it was no Terengganu cultural event draws international visitors

KUALA TERENGGANU: The uniqueness of the Musing Ketang programme organised by the Terengganu Tourism Department in collaboration with Terengganu Cultural Village has drawn the interest of international tourists. Department director Datuk Tengku Mohd Ariffin Tengku A. Rahman said the programme, now in its third year, was attended by tourists from around the world, including the United States, Singapore, South Korea and several European countries. He said among the highlights of the programme were shadow puppet performances, top-spinning competitions and children’s top-spinning event.

Tengku Mohd Ariffin (with songkok) said the event has attracted tourists from around the world, including the United States, Singapore, South Korea and several European countries. – PIC FROM JABATAN PELANCONGAN NEGERI TERENGGANU FACEBOOK PAGE

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China coal mine blast kills at least 90, more missing

TOKYO: Trade Minister Ryosei Akazawa said yesterday there were no formal talks with China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, although the two had a brief conversation before a dinner on Friday, without disclosing details. Akazawa was speaking to reporters after attending the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) ministerial meetings in the eastern Chinese city of Suzhou. Akazawa is the most senior Japanese official to visit China since a diplomatic dispute between the two countries erupted in November. “Before the dinner began on Friday, I approached Minister Wang and had a brief conversation,” Akazawa said, adding he could not disclose details because it was a diplomatic exchange. He said on Friday he hoped to discuss various issues with Wang if the opportunity arose. A Japanese Trade Ministry official declined to comment on whether Tokyo had formally requested bilateral talks. A meeting between Akazawa and a senior Chinese official would have marked the highest-level engagement since Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi triggered the row by saying a hypothetical attack on Taiwan could trigger a response from Tokyo. Since then, Beijing has adopted a raft of retaliatory measures, urging its citizens not to travel to Japan and choking off shipments of some rare earths, which are vital in making electric cars, weapons and other products. During the Apec ministerial meeting, Akazawa called on exporting nations to rectify arbitrary rare earth export controls, although he did not name any country. – Reuters Japan, China meet amid diplomatic row Japan’s

KOLKATA: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio yesterday opened a visit to India that will include talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Rubio began his four-day, four-city tour by visiting the headquarters of Mother Teresa’s charity in Kolkata. “Rubio spoke about aiding the homeless, terminally ill and those afflicted by leprosy,” Sister Marie Juan of Missionaries of Charity told BEIJING: The death toll from a gas explosion at a coal mine in northern Shanxi province has jumped to 90, CCTV reported yesterday. The gas explosion occurred on Friday at the Liushenyu coal mine in Qinyuan ߑ county, with 247 workers on duty underground, Xinhua news agency reported. Most of them were brought to the surface by yesterday morning. President Xi Jinping called for authorities to “spare no effort” in treating the injured and conducting search and rescue operations, while ordering ߑ a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident and strict accountability. He “emphasised that all regions and departments must draw lessons from this accident, remain constantly vigilant regarding workplace safety ... and resolutely prevent and curb the occurrence of major and catastrophic accidents”. Premier Li Qiang echoed the instructions, calling for timely and accurate release of information and rigorous accountability. Xi orders thorough investigation

Rescuers arriving at the Liushenyu coal mine after a gas explosion yesterday. – CNS/AFPPIC

In 2023, a collapse at an open-pit coal mine in Inner Mongolia killed 53 people. China is the world’s top consumer of coal and the largest greenhouse gas emitter, despite installing renewable energy infrastructure at record speed. – Reuters/AFP

Shanxi, one of China’s poorer provinces, is the centre of the country’s coal-mining activities. Mine safety in China has improved in recent decades but accidents still occur in an industry where safety protocols are often lax and regulations vague.

Rescue operations were ongoing and the cause of ߑ the accident was under investigation, according to the local emergency management authority in Qinyuan. Executives of the company responsible for the mine have been detained, Xinhua reported.

Rubio in India to renew ties reporters after his hour-and-a half-long visit. “He was happy to pray and we were also happy to have him.”

seeing the world’s largest democracy as a natural partner in a global order. President Donald Trump has turned away from long-held assumptions and warmed to Pakistan, which has lavished him with praise over his diplomacy in its short war with India last year, and has welcomed a cryptocurrency firm owned by the US president’s family. – AFP

democracies a counterweight to China’s presence in the Indian Ocean. Ahead of the trip, Rubio called India a “great ally, great partner” and said the United States would be looking to find ways to sell it more oil. The United States was a Cold War partner of Pakistan but increasingly took a distance as it prioritised relations with India, seen as team in successfully completing the flight mission with zero mistakes and zero errors.” The mission’s objectives are to “continue carrying out space science and application work, conduct extravehicular activities and cargo transfer in and out of the cabin”, Zhang said. He added that one astronaut will remain on the station for a year. The one-year residency, Zhang said, will provide data on astronauts taking part in long flights and test health support capabilities. Beijing aims to send a crewed mission to the Moon by 2030. – AFP

Rubio then flew to New Delhi, where he was scheduled to meet Modi. Before leaving on Tuesday, Rubio will also take part in a meeting of foreign ministers of the so-called Quad – Australia, India, Japan and the United States – four

Hong Kong astronaut joins space mission BEIJING: A Hong Kong astronaut yesterday joined a Chinese space mission for the first time as part of a three-person crew. spokesman Zhang Jingbo. The team comprises Lai Ka

ying, hailed by state media as Hong Kong’s first astronaut, Zhu Yangzhu and Zhang Zhiyuan, the spokesman said. Flight engineer Zhu, who participated in the Shenzhou-16 mission in 2023, will be the commander. “This is a test of our physical and psychological endurance, emergency response abilities, coordination and teamwork, as well as our ability to work and live in orbit,” Zhu said. “As mission commander, what I have thought about most is how to make thorough preparations in every aspect and how to lead the

The Tiangong space station, crewed by teams of three astronauts that are rotated every six months, is the crown jewel of China’s space programme, boosted by billions in state investment in a bid to catch up with the United States and Russia. The Shenzhou-23 mission is scheduled to blast off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northwestern China, carrying three astronauts to the space station, said China Manned Space Agency (CMSA)

(From left) Zhu, Zhang and Lai at a press conference yesterday. – REUTERSPIC

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Iran accuses US of ‘excessive demands’ TEHRAN: Tehran accused the United States of “excessive demands” as media reports raised the prospect that Washington was mulling new military strikes. Pakistan’s army chief arrived in Tehran on Friday to bolster mediation and US President Donald Trump abruptly changed his plans to skip his son’s wedding to stay in Washington due to “circumstances pertaining to government”, fuelling speculation that the situation had entered a sensitive stage. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in a call with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres that Tehran was engaged in the diplomatic process despite “repeated betrayals of diplomacy and military aggression, along with contradictory positions and repeated excessive demands” by the United States. Axios and CBS News, citing unnamed sources, reported the White House was considering strikes on Iran, although both added a final decision had not been made yet. Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir landed in Tehran on Friday, where he met Araghchi. – AFP Talks on nuclear disarmament fail NEW YORK: Talks at the UN to reaffirm nuclear nonproliferation and disarmament goals failed on Friday. Vietnam’s Do Hung Viet, the president of the conference, said that “despite our best efforts ... it is my understanding that the conference is not in a position to achieve agreement.” “I do not intend to put the document forward for adoption.” Negotiators were reviewing the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, amid fears of a renewed arms race. Previous reviews in 2015 and 2022 were also unsuccessful. With expectations low, participants negotiated over a repeatedly reviewed and watered-down text, which they ultimately failed to adopt. Experts pointed out that even in the absence of a review agreement for the third time in a row, the treaty continues to exist, but with diminished legitimacy. Exactly why the review failed is not yet known. – AFP

the needs of people, their work and their future”. For years, collection, treatment and disposal of garbage in southern Italy was largely in the hands of a small group of private owners. In January 2025 the European court found that Italian authorities had repeatedly failed to stop illegal dumping in a region also known as the “Triangle of Death”, due to abnormally high rates of cancer among local residents. The court gave the Italian government two years to establish a comprehensive database of toxic waste sites and communicate the risks to the public. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in February 2025 appointed an Italian general to head a task force aimed at helping victims and pursuing environmental clean-up operations. – Reuters The incident unfolded in Garden Grove, Orange County, southeast of Los Angeles. Garden Grove police chief Amir El-Farra said about 40,000 people were affected by the evacuation order, with several thousand refusing to leave. Aerial footage filmed by TV stations showed jets of water being sprayed at the tank, which has a capacity of 34,000 gallons. Covey said later on Friday that efforts to cool the tank had been successful. “It’s down to a temperature around 61ºC, with 50ºC being its happy place, so those efforts are succeeding,” Covey said. “Our group is going to do everything they can to come up with a third, fourth and fifth option,” he said. Orange County health officer Regina Chinsio Kwong said the large exclusion zone was a necessary precaution. “If it does explode and there is vapour, you are all safe as long as you are out of the zone,” she said. She appealed for anyone who might notice “a fruity and heavy smell” to alert authorities. “Smelling it doesn’t mean you’ve reached a level that causes symptoms. But we don’t want you to smell that. So, we need to know if you’re smelling it.” No injuries had been reported by Friday evening, and there was no immediate indication as to what caused the leak. – AFP

Water being sprayed on a failing tank of flammable liquid in Garden Grove, California, on Friday. – REUTERSPIC

Toxic fumes leak triggers evacuation

LOS ANGELES: Tens of thousands of people were ordered to leave their homes in California on Friday after a huge chemical tank began to leak, sending toxic fumes over Thousands ordered to leave amid blast fears

very bad chemicals into the parking lot in that area or, two, the tank goes into a thermal runaway and blows up, affecting the tanks around them that have fuel or chemicals in them as well. “We are setting up these evacuations in preparation for these two options... it fails or it blows up,” he said.

a heavily populated area and posing the risk of an explosion. The tank contained 26,000 litres of methyl methacrylate, a volatile and flammable liquid used to make plastics. “There are literally two options,” Incident Commander Craig Covey said. “The tank fails and spills a total of about 7,000 gallons of

Pope slams polluting companies ACERRA: Pope Leo yesterday called out companies that seek “dizzying profits” at the cost of environmental pollution, on a visit to an area in Italy known as a hotbed for illegal dumping of toxic waste.

While in Acerra, about 220km south of Rome, the pope urged the world to “reject temptations of power and enrichment linked to practices that pollute the land, water, air and social coexistence”. Leo said he wanted to come to the area near Naples known as the “Land of Fires”, where the European Court of Human Rights ruled last year that authorities had failed to protect residents from waste dumping since at least 1988, to “gather the tears” of families who had lost loves ones to related illnesses. Leo was greeted by people waving flags and wearing yellow hats, some holding up

Pope Leo arriving in Acerra yesterday. – REUTERSPIC

organisations have been allowed to act with impunity for too long”. During his four-hour visit to Acerra, he also referred to “the dizzying profits of a few, blind to

posterboards with pictures of family members who had died. Leo, who will issue his first major document tomorrow, said “unscrupulous people and

Abuse of flotilla activists reflects immoral policy RAMALLAH: Palestine on Friday condemned mistreatment of activists seized from a Gaza bound aid flotilla, saying the actions of Israeli forces reflect a policy devoid of “law, human morality and human dignity”. and humiliation suffered by activists of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which headed to the Gaza Strip on a humanitarian mission, at the hands of the occupation forces and their extremist ministers.” Ben-Gvir deliberately filmed and published footage of the mistreatment of the activists while boasting about it,

The Palestinian presidency urged the international community to assume its “legal and humanitarian responsibilities toward the Palestinian people, lift the blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip and work to stop the Israeli attacks against our people, land and holy sites”. – Bernama

It incident demonstrated how Israel has “turned collective humiliation into a declared part of its political and security doctrine”. The ministry also praised flotilla participants, commending their “courage and noble humanitarian positions”. said the

describing the actions as part of a broader Israeli policy rather than “an isolated incident” or “individual political showmanship”.

The ministry said Israeli National Security Minister Itamar

Its Foreign Ministry said it “strongly condemns the abuse