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‘Show proof 60,000 entered varsities through backdoor’

Baseless claims damage public trust in higher education system, says minister.

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Safety burden must be shared Report on h page 4 If in-car cameras made mandatory for e-hailing drivers, commensurate safety obligations should also be imposed on platform operators to strengthen in-app protections: Group

Gabungan eHailing Malaysia said it is unfair to place disproportionate responsibility on drivers while overlooking the broader role of platform operators. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Avoid further delay of Senior Citizens Bill, experts advocate ‘Legislation vital as population ageing fast, with only 14.7% of elderly persons considered to be ageing well.’

Govt agency director, ex-director among 13 arrested by MACC Group allegedly received RM2.5m from contractors to create direct negotiations monopoly for projects.

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THURSDAY | JUNE 18, 2026

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Leaders should not act impulsively, says Sultan Nazrin PUTRAJAYA: It would be unfortunate for a country if its leaders choose to act impulsively, react emotionally and proceed recklessly based on personal feelings and emotional influences, said Deputy Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Nazrin Shah. Sultan Nazrin added that a great nation is not one that only takes pride in past achievements but also draws lessons from them to build a brighter future.

He said sacrifice has been the fundamental factor behind every great success, the readiness to leave behind comfort, endure hardship and face difficulties in pursuit of a nobler objective. “Struggle becomes meaningless without sacrifice. Sacrifice is not merely accepting the loss of something we cherish but the willingness to place a greater interest above personal interest. Sacrifice demands courage, perseverance and sincerity.” Sultan Nazrin expressed concern over the diminishing spirit of sacrifice within the ummah . “The Muslim community must be made to understand the value of sacrifice, be instilled with the spirit of willingness to sacrifice and make sacrifice a way of life for the continuity of the nation in facing the increasingly challenging storms and waves of the world.” He highlighted the importance of unity, drawing inspiration from the Medina Charter, which successfully united people of diverse races and religions through tolerance and just, wise leadership. “Clearly, the success of a nation depends greatly on the willingness of its people to cooperate, respect one another and live harmoniously despite differences in ethnicity, culture and religion, while being under the stewardship of a just and wise government. “The celebration of Maal Hijrah should serve as a moment for self-reflection, reviewing past mistakes with the intention

PETALING JAYA: Malaysians may be living longer but not necessarily ageing better, and experts are warning that the country’s window to prepare for an ageing society is closing fast. Universiti Teknologi Mara gerontologist and senior lecturer Dr Nur Amalina Aziz said more than a decade after the National Policy for Older Persons was introduced in 2011, Malaysia still lacks a dedicated law to protect seniors, making long-delayed reforms such as the Senior Citizens Bill increasingly urgent. She said Malaysia could no longer afford to delay the proposed legislation as the population is ageing fast, with only 14.7% of old persons considered to be ageing well. “This is critical as Malaysia faces numerous challenges, including poor health outcomes, limited economic opportunities, vulnerability to climate change and the absence of specific legislation to protect old persons from neglect and abuse.” Amalina said the 14.7% figure for those ageing well paints a worrying picture of the health trajectory of senior Malaysians, especially as more people are living beyond their 60s, with many expected to live at least another 10 years. “Drawing on our previous work with the Asem Ageing Global Centre, a human rights-based approach should form the Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com His Royal Highness said leaders who make hasty decisions without careful thought and prioritise short-term interests would ultimately cause harm, the consequences of which must later be borne at great cost by innocent citizens. “The calmness, openness and cautiousness of leaders in making decisions based on well-informed judgements are crucial,” said Sultan Nazrin at the National Level Maal Hijrah 1448 celebration held yesterday at the Putra Mosque. Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan. Themed Madani Dihayati, Ummah Diberkati , the celebration drew about 5,000 attendees. Sultan Nazrin said every leader should learn from the Hijrah event, which demonstrated the importance of strategic planning. He pointed out the example of Prophet Muhammad appointing Abdullah Uraiqit, who was not a Muslim at the time, as a guide due to his trustworthiness, knowledge of desert routes and reliability. “This story serves as an example that Islam recognises a person’s expertise, integrity and trustworthiness without prejudice towards his religious background, provided he does not harm Muslims.”

Sultan Nazrin with (from left) Fadillah, the recipients of the Tokoh Ma’al Hijrah award Prof Datuk Dr Osman Bakar and Dr Ahmad Al-Raysuni as well as Zulkifli at the event in Putrajaya yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

of awakening awareness and reminding humanity of its heedlessness at a time when people risk becoming increasingly overwhelmed by the tides of worldly life.” – Bernama

PM highlights new areas of cooperation with Tatarstan

Senior Citizens Bill urgently needed: Academic

Ű THESUN TEAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

KAZAN: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has outlined new avenues of cooperation between Malaysia and Tatarstan following high-level discussions in Kazan, with a focus on energy, trade, the halal industry and the digital economy. In a post on his Facebook page after his arrival in the Russian city yesterday, Anwar said he met Tatarstan Rais (head) Rustam Minnikhanov to exchange views on bilateral relations and explore areas of mutual benefit. Anwar said discussions with Minnikhanov covered a wide range of sectors, including trade, investment, education, tourism, the halal industry, technology and talent development. “The energy sector was also a key focus, given Tatarstan’s position as one of the Russian Federation’s major oil-producing regions. We see significant potential for cooperation in the oil and gas industry, including downstream activities, refining and petrochemicals.” Anwar also congratulated Kazan on being named the Islamic World Cultural Capital 2026 by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, describing it as recognition of the city’s role as a centre of Islamic scholarship, culture and innovation. “We also discussed the role of the Kazan Forum in strengthening business ties, while creating new opportunities in innovation, the digital economy and strategic investments.” Anwar expressed hope that the engagement would further strengthen Malaysia–Tatarstan relations and deliver tangible benefits to both economies and their peoples. He further expressed appreciation for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s initiative in establishing the Strategic Vision Group, which he said serves as a bridge between Russia and the Islamic world. Anwar is in Kazan for a two-day working visit to the capital of Russia’s Republic of Tatarstan to attend the Asean–Russia Commemorative Summit, which ends today. He was accompanied by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani and Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir.

o Malaysia can no longer afford to delay proposed legislation as population ageing fast, with only 14.7% of elderly individuals considered to be in good stead

(2026–2030) reflects the government’s commitment to improving the wellbeing of the elderly through healthcare, social protection reforms, retirement planning and expanded community participation via senior citizens activity centres. She said the plan also strengthens housing support, including improved social protection, affordable and sustainable housing schemes as well as greener living environments. “When the voices of old persons are not heard and their rights are overlooked, they risk losing the opportunity to live a dignified, secure and meaningful life.” In May, the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry said it was aiming to table the Senior Citizens Bill at the next Parliament sitting, with Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri saying its progress is subject to final procedural approval and further review by the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC). She had said the draft legislation was in place but required inter-ministerial coordination and additional input from the AGC, with tabling expected within the next six months if all processes are completed.

foundation of the proposed Senior Citizens Bill. “The approach, based on a framework developed by elder law expert Bridget Lewis and the UN Principles for Older Persons, provides clear standards for protecting the rights and wellbeing of old persons while improving coordination across ageing-related policies.” She said while implementation is important, it must be accompanied by comprehensive measures to address existing gaps that have resulted in the inadequate protection of human rights of elderly persons. “Without such measures, the law may not fully meet the basic needs of old persons, including their health, economic and social needs. “Lessons can be learned from Japan, which became a super-ageing society in 2006, where various initiatives have been introduced to ensure that the basic needs of old persons are met.” She said the Senior Citizens Bill is now more urgent than ever, with aged persons expected to make up over 14% of the population by 2043. Amalina said the 13th Malaysia Plan

THURSDAY | JUNE 18, 2026

3 PAS sees signs of early GE16

Claims of backdoor entry into universities could erode public trust: Minister KUALA LUMPUR: The allegation that between 30,000 and 60,000 students gained admission to public universities (UA) through a “backdoor” is a serious accusation that could undermine public confidence in the integrity of the country’s higher education system. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir said the baseless claim not only tarnishes the reputation of public universities but also creates the perception that opportunities meant for qualified students had been taken away for financial gain. He said such a narrative could erode public trust, particularly among parents and students currently undergoing the admission process to higher education institutions. “The admission system for public universities in this country is implemented through a clear, transparent mechanism based on merit and the stipulated eligibility requirements,” he said in a statement yesterday. Zambry said if it were true that tens of thousands of students had entered universities through unauthorised channels, those making the allegation should provide evidence to support the claims. He said such allegations must be substantiated with facts, data and a clear methodology. “Taking this into consideration, several public universities have lodged police reports to enable investigations to be carried out. “This action is not intended to suppress criticism or restrict freedom of speech, but rather to ensure that every allegation can be proven and addressed through the proper legal process.” He also reminded the public that freedom of speech is not a licence to spread unfounded accusations, stressing that academic arguments must be supported by facts, data and credible evidence. Zambry said those making the allegations must take responsibility if they failed to produce solid evidence to support their statements. He added that the Higher Education Ministry remained open to constructive criticism aimed at improving the national education system, but

Ű BY THESUN TEAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o Party vice-president cites mounting political speculation and points to October November window after state polls

The 2022 election ultimately resulted in a hung Parliament, leading to the formation of a Unity government comprising Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional. On another matter, Mohd Amar, who is also the Kelantan State Legislative Assembly speaker, stressed that the party machinery must remain fully prepared at all levels, warning against last-minute mobilisation amid continued political uncertainty. He also expressed concern over the rise of new political parties targeting young voters ahead of the next general election, saying the trend adds to PAS’ challenges in an increasingly fluid political landscape. He said these parties appear to have identified specific voter segments, particularly younger Malaysians who are not formally aligned with any political bloc. “What they say can easily influence the minds of young voters. This is one of the challenges for PAS. “They seem to have identified areas where they believe they have support. They have assessed the political landscape and chosen their platforms accordingly,” he said. Mohd Amar said political conditions have become harder to predict, particularly with younger voters now making up around 40% of the electorate. He said political parties are no longer able to accurately read their thinking, adding that younger voters are increasingly less influenced by traditional ideological loyalties, with candidate appeal becoming a more decisive factor. He said candidates also play an important role in shaping youth choices, stressing the need for engagement that resonates with younger voters. growing vote share a more meaningful measure of progress. “Increase in vote share shows there’s a growing appetite for a more progressive agenda.” Syaza said current indications suggest such cooperation remains unlikely, with Bersama more focused on establishing its presence regardless of electoral outcomes. “If they can get Bersama to work together, they can be a strong progressive bloc. “But without Bersama, it would be at least five-cornered fights,“ she said. Nomination for Johor polls is set for June 27, with polling on July 11. In Negeri Sembilan, nomination falls on July 18 and polling on August 1.

KOTA BHARU: PAS vice-president Datuk Mohd Amar Nik Abdullah has suggested that Malaysia could be moving towards an earlier-than expected 16th General Election (GE16), possibly within the October November window this year, although no formal indication has been given by the Federal government. He said the view was based on political “signals” and ongoing election speculation, as well as the sequencing of upcoming state polls that could shape national timing. “There are indications that GE16 may happen this year. We may first

He made the remarks when speaking at the Pengkalan Chepa PAS annual general meeting, which was opened by Kelantan Menteri Besar Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud. The last general election was also held around a similar period, when then-prime minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob dissolved Parliament days after tabling Budget 2023.

see state elections in Johor and Negeri Sembilan, and possibly Malacca after that. “After Malacca, Parliament could be dissolved. There are many signals and rumours, but the timing remains uncertain. “Some suggest July after the prime minister returns from overseas visits, but the stronger speculation points to October or November,” he said, citing an English daily.

Mohd Amar said party machinery must remain fully prepared at all levels, advising against last-minute mobilisation amid continued political uncertainty. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

‘Muda-PSM tie-up pragmatic but tough road ahead’

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

third force, focusing on political reform, systemic change and generational renewal. “Would the Muda-PSM cooperation bear fruit? I think yes. It’s a good strategy to avoid clashing with each other.” Syaza said the cooperation is likely to resonate most with younger, urban and educated voters rather than the more broadly defined youth demographic, noting that progressive ideals do not necessarily translate across all age groups. “It would probably be, if anything, younger, urban and educated voters.” On what would constitute success, she said winning seats may not be the most realistic benchmark at this stage, with

taken to the Sentul Hindu Crematorium at noon. Mahadevan, regarded as the“Father of Modern Psychiatry” in Malaysia, leaves behind a great legacy in the development of the country’s mental health system throughout his more than six decades of involvement in the field. He was the founder and president of the Malaysian Psychiatric Association and had served as the agenda and the fact that they are relatively small parties,“ she told theSun. On Monday, Muda and PSM announced the formation of a progressive bloc and pledged to coordinate efforts in both state elections, focusing on common policy goals and electoral coordination, including avoiding multi-cornered contests against each other. However, Syaza cautioned that while avoiding clashes between themselves is a sound strategy, the two parties would still face steeper challenges from larger parties, including the newly formed Bersama by ex-PKR leaders Rafizi Ramli and Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad. The Bersama multiracial party has been described as the

PETALING JAYA: The cooperation between Muda and Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) ahead of the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections is a pragmatic move for two smaller parties seeking to stay relevant in a political landscape dominated by larger coalitions, according to a political analyst. International Islamic University of Malaysia political analyst Dr Syaza Shukri said the alliance reflects the reality faced by smaller parties that share similar aspirations and voter bases but lack the resources and machinery of major political blocs. “I think the cooperation makes a lot of sense given their shared

excessive allegations without basis could not be left unchallenged. He said the ministry would continue to safeguard the integrity of the nation’s higher education institutions and maintain public confidence in Malaysia’s higher education system. – Bernama Renowned psychiatrist Dr Mahadevan dies at 96

KUALA LUMPUR: National psychiatry icon Tan Sri Dr M. Mahadevan ( pic ) has died of heart and lung complications. He was 96. His caregiver, Thenagaran said Mahadevan died on Monday at his residence in Ukay Heights, Ampang, surrounded by family members. He said Mahadevan had been receiving treatment at a private medical centre in Ampang for the past month

received international recognition when Harvard University named a travel scholarship programme in his honour. He is most notably recognised for transforming the central mental hospital in Tanjung

government’s

chief

following heart failure and lung infection. “He had been unwell for a long time and was admitted to the intensive care unit. After his condition deteriorated, he requested to be brought home.” Thenagaran said members of the public who wished to pay their respects may do so at the family residence at No. 32, Lorong Lee Hin Neo 1, Ukay Heights. He said the funeral service is today, starting at 9.30am before the body is

psychiatrist in the 1980s. Born on Sept 9, 1929, he received his early education at St John’s Institution, Kuala Lumpur, before completing his medical studies in India, in 1961. He subsequently served

Rambutan which was later renamed Hospital Bahagia Ulu Kinta, in Perak. – Bernama

at University College Dublin, Ireland. His contributions to psychiatry, especially in the field of hypnosis,

THURSDAY | JUNE 18, 2026

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E-hailing platforms must share safety burden too: NGO

‘Rise in building material costs under control’ KUCHING: The increase in the cost of construction materials following the global energy crisis and disruptions to the world’s supply chain is still at a manageable level. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said contractors are still able to absorb the cost increase and continue with projects without any delays. “The situation is still within a manageable level and does not require additional allocations. “However, we will continue to monitor the situation. If there is a sudden price increase, we have a strategy to deal with it,” he told reporters yesterday. Nanta said the Works Ministry, together with the Construction Industry Development Board, has conducted a study on the impact of the crisis on the construction industry and presented the results of the study to the National Economic Action Council. He said the study included short-term and long-term strategies to deal with any economic impact, especially those involving the supply chain and the cost of construction materials. “We need to understand that the construction sector is one of the engines of the country’s economic growth. If projects are postponed, the economy could be affected because the allocations provided are not spent in the construction sector. “For this reason, the government has decided to continue with existing projects despite the price increase because it is still at a manageable level.” – Bernama

processes for drivers and passengers, enhanced identity verification, efficient complaint management systems, rapid emergency response procedures and consistent enforcement against all parties when necessary.” Rizal urged policymakers and industry stakeholders to move away from what he described as a “culture of crisis management”, in which reforms are introduced only after high-profile incidents. “In principle, the group supports any initiative that can enhance the safety of passengers and drivers. “However, this discussion must be approached in a holistic, balanced and forward-looking manner that addresses root causes rather than merely responding to symptoms.” He added that under the spirit of Malaysia’s Gig Workers Act 2025, digital platforms must be held more accountable for the safety and welfare of the workers who generate value for their businesses. “Safety is not a cost. Safety is an investment. And that investment must be shared fairly among all parties that benefit from this industry,” he noted. He said GEM will continue pushing for a more balanced framework for gig workers. “Our objective is not merely to assign blame when incidents occur, but to also ensure a safer, fairer and more sustainable system for the future of gig work in Malaysia.”

Its deputy director Dr Tun Maizura Mohd Fathullah said the country’s blood donation rate stands at 2.3%, equivalent to 23 donors for every 1,000 people. “We need to raise public awareness so that this rate can reach at least 3%, or 30 donors for every 1,000 people. “This increase is important to meet the needs of thalassaemia patients, surgical cases, women in childbirth and crash victims who require an immediate blood supply.” She was speaking after receiving a contribution of 2,250 blood bags through the UiTM Cares Grand Blood Donation Campaign at Dewan Agung Tuanku Canselor, Universiti Teknologi Mara here on Tuesday. Maizura said blood stocks at the National Blood Centre remain sufficient at present, but collections must be carried out continuously due to consistent demand and the limited shelf life of blood components. “Platelets can only be stored for five days while red blood cells have a storage period of between 35 and said, adding that installation and maintenance costs for any mandatory camera system should be borne by platform operators or supported through subsidies. Rizal said drivers face significant safety risks, including verbal and physical abuse, robbery, fraud, intoxicated passengers, account misuse and vandalism. “Many incidents go unreported because drivers perceive reporting procedures as cumbersome or believe that little action will be taken. “For this reason, Gabungan eHailing Malaysia believes safety must be viewed as a shared responsibility rather than an issue of individual driver conduct.” He said safety issues in the e-hailing sector are long-standing, stressing that drivers have repeatedly raised concerns through formal engagements with ministries and relevant agencies, often without sustained follow-through. “Unfortunately, many of these concerns only receive serious attention after incidents occur and public pressure mounts.” He highlighted that any in-car camera system must be governed by strict privacy safeguards, including clear rules on data storage, access and usage, as well as oversight mechanisms to prevent misuse. However, he said cameras alone are insufficient to address deeper structural problems in the industry. “So, meaningful improvements require stronger screening

o ‘If in-car cameras are made mandatory, similar security obligations should be imposed on operators to boost in-app protections’

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

are needed on how footage is stored and accessed. “We do not want privacy issues or misuse of recordings. There must be strict controls.” In contrast, full-time driver Muhd Rahman Muhd Ismail, 45, opposed the proposal, saying it risks adding pressure without addressing root causes of safety problems. “This is just another cost being pushed onto drivers. “Today cameras, tomorrow something else. But what about passenger verification or stronger enforcement from the platform?” He argued that existing in-app safety tools are sufficient if properly enforced. “The problem is not a lack of cameras, it is weak action when complaints are made,” he said. Muhd Rahman highlighted that mandatory recording could discourage passengers and create discomfort during trips. “I do not think it is suitable for us either. Maybe for buses, but for private e-hailing cars it feels a bit off. “Not everyone wants to be recorded every time they step into a car. It changes the whole experience and makes it uncomfortable for drivers and passengers.” – By Harith Kamal “We cannot continue relying on drivers to serve as both the first and last line of defence in matters of safety,” he said, adding that platform companies possess far greater financial, technological and data resources than individual drivers. He advised against shifting compliance costs solely to drivers, many of whom are already under financial strain due to rising insurance premiums, declining fares and increasing operating expenses. “If safety is indeed regarded as a national priority, a fair cost-sharing framework must be established,” he incidents occur. However, cautioned against placing disproportionate responsibility on drivers while overlooking the broader role of platform operators. Rizal said if in-car cameras are made mandatory, equivalent safety obligations should also be imposed on platform operators to strengthen in-app protections. He said these should include real-time emergency response features, enhanced passenger verification, risk detection tools, live location sharing and clearly defined response protocols. he

PETALING JAYA: E-hailing drivers have given mixed reactions to a proposal to introduce mandatory in-car cameras for ride-hailing vehicles, with some welcoming the move as a safety boost and others saying it could raise costs and deepen mistrust in the sector. For a 32-year-old part-time driver based in Penang, Amirul Hakim, the idea is a “necessary step” but one that must be implemented carefully. “I actually agree because it could protect drivers too, not just passengers,” he stressed. “Sometimes, we (drivers) face difficult situations in the car and there is no proof. Some passengers can be rude and intimidating when they raise their voice, so we worry about what they could do. “A camera could help settle disputes faster and give a sense of security,” he said. However, he said the responsibility should not fall solely on drivers to bear the cost or manage the system. “If it becomes mandatory, the platform should help pay for it or provide the device. “Many drivers are already struggling with fuel, maintenance and other additional costs,” he added. He also noted that clearer rules PETALING JAYA: Why does the spotlight so often land on what e-hailing drivers should have done after an incident, while the obligations of platform companies, which extract substantial profits from the industry receive far less scrutiny? That question lies at the heart of a pointed intervention by Gabungan eHailing Malaysia (GEM) as the government considers proposals to install in-vehicle cameras in e hailing vehicles following a string of recent safety-related incidents. The proposal, now being weighed by the Transport Ministry following recent assault cases involving e-hailing drivers, is being positioned as a way to strengthen accountability and improve safety for passengers and drivers. On the matter of the camera proposal, GEM chief activist Jose Rizal said the group supports the use of in-car recording systems as an added layer of protection, noting that such technology could improve accountability and assist investigations when disputes or

Drivers split over mandatory in-car cameras

Centre aims to boost blood donation rate SHAH ALAM: The National Blood Centre is aiming to increase Malaysia’s blood donation rate to at least 3% of the current population to ensure a stable blood supply capable of meeting growing demand.

Maizura said blood stocks at the National Blood Centre remain sufficient, but collections must be carried out continuously due to consistent demand and the limited shelf life of blood components. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

She encouraged the public to become regular donors by donating blood every three months rather than only coming forward during emergencies or periods of blood shortages. “To balance the high demand, the National Blood Centre continuously monitors stock levels of all blood groups, particularly Group O, as nearly 50% of Malaysians belong to this blood group.”

42 days.” She said efforts to recruit new donors must be intensified to replace existing donors who will eventually reach the maximum blood donation age limit of 70. According to her, the need is driven by the increasing number of government hospitals, which has led to higher demand for blood supplies and greater medical workloads, Bernama reported.

THURSDAY | JUNE 18, 2026

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MACC nabs 13 over alleged graft

o Case involves payment of RM2.5m linked to monopoly of direct negotiations for govt projects

locations, including residences, office premises and government agency buildings. Authorities seized about RM1.5 million in cash, jewellery worth about RM1 million, a luxury watch, two vehicles and a high-powered motorcycle. The case is being investigated under Section 17(a) of the MACC Act 2009 for solicitation and acceptance of gratification. MACC said investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the alleged corruption network and identify any other individuals involved.

place between 2024 and 2026. Investigators said contractors involved in the case claimed they were required to pay between 10% and 15% of project values to intermediaries, who then allegedly channelled the payments to the agency’s current and former directors. The arrests followed a large-scale operation dubbed Op Drain, conducted by MACC’s Investigation Division across Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Pahang and Perak on Monday. During the operation, enforcement officers raided 25

statements at the Perak MACC office. Of the 13, eight are civil servants while the remaining are company owners and civilians. “Three suspects, two civil servants and a company director, were remanded for two days while the remaining 10 were remanded for five days,” MACC said in a statement yesterday. It added that the remand orders were issued by Magistrate Anis Hanini Abdullah at the Ipoh Magistrate’s Court following an application by the commission. Preliminary investigations showed the alleged offences took

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

The bribes were allegedly paid by contractors as inducement to secure the appointment of companies controlled by cartel-linked agents, allowing them to monopolise direct negotiation and quotation-based projects awarded by the agency. The individuals, comprising 10 men and three women in their 30s to 60s, were arrested between 8pm and 11pm on Monday while providing

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has arrested 13 individuals, including a current director and a former director of a government agency, over allegations of soliciting and receiving about RM2.5 million in bribes.

Tragic end to family legacy

KLUANG: A retired soldier’s dream of seeing his youngest daughter continuing the family’s military legacy ended in tragedy when Pbt Siti Khadijah Sungip, 24, was killed during a grenade exercise at Hobart Camp in Gurun, Kedah, on Tuesday. Her father, Sungip Jais, 65, said the deceased, the youngest of seven siblings, joined the Army out of a deep passion for the military and a desire to carry on the family tradition. “She had been interested in the military since childhood. She once told me she wanted to continue the family legacy because I was in the Army as well. “After completing her Diploma in Civil Engineering (Highways and Transportation) at the Mara Higher Skills College in Sri Gading, she applied to join the Army,“ he told Bernama at his residence in Taman Sri Lambak here. Sungip, who served with the Royal Artillery Regiment, added that his daughter was close to the family and had expressed her intention to postpone marriage to care for her parents. “She didn’t want to think about marriage yet because she wanted to look after Mum and Dad first,“ he said. The victim’s elder sister, Siti Zaiha, 39, said Siti Khadijah sent a photograph via WhatsApp at midnight on June 15, which is now the family’s last keepsake. She said the photo showed her sister during a shooting practice session, the most enjoyable part of her training since joining the Army last year. “Siti Khadijah said she had more training the next day and that the grenade exercise would start at about 8am. “However, at about 1pm, I received a call informing me my sister had been involved in an accident. At first, I thought it was a minor mishap or a road accident. “Not long after, I received another call informing me the incident occurred during training and that my sister had passed away,” she said. Siti Zaiha said the loss is tough for the family to accept, as her sister was always cheerful and was her usual self when she returned home for the recent Aidiladha holidays. “The last time we met was a week before Hari Raya Aidiladha. She looked happy as usual and gave no sign of anything amiss,” she said. In the 10.57am incident on Tuesday, Siti Khadijah and another soldier, Kpl Norazmi Abu Bakar, died on the way to the Sultan Abdul Halim Hospital in Sungai Petani from injuries sustained in the explosion. Siti Khadijah received the Best Female Recruit (Academic) Award in January for her performance during basic military training at the Army Basic Training Centre in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan. Born on Sept 19, 2002, in Kluang, she underwent training as a female recruit with Juliet Company before being posted to the Royal Army Engineers Regiment.

Baderulhisham showing some of the seized packages of ganja during the press conference. – BERNAMAPIC

RM1.17m ganja seized at northern ICQS ALOR SETAR: Police have seized 14.6kg of ganja buds worth an estimated RM1.17 million from a car at the Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex. Kedah deputy police chief DCP

distribution chain and other individuals involved. “The suspect, who also tested positive for ganja , has been remanded for six days to assist investigations. The case is being investigated under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, which carries the death penalty or life imprisonment and whipping upon conviction. “Kedah police will continue to intensify enforcement operations, particularly at the country’s entry points, to curb drug smuggling activities. Public cooperation is greatly appreciated in providing any information related to drug trafficking and smuggling activities to the police,” he said. He added that the public could channel information to any police station or through the Bukit Aman Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department hotline at 012-208 7222. – Bernama

headquarters on Tuesday. He said preliminary investigations found the suspect is believed to have acted as a courier for a drug smuggling syndicate that brought supplies in from a neighbouring country before distributing them to markets in Kuala Lumpur and Johor. “The modus operandi involved obtaining drug supplies from the Danok area in Thailand and bringing them into Malaysia through the ICQS Complex. “The suspect claimed he became involved in the activity on May 25 and admitted to having smuggled drugs into the country on four previous occasions, delivering them to locations instructed by the syndicate in return for RM4,000 per delivery,” he said. Baderulhisham said further investigations were underway to identify the syndicate’s full network, including the source of supply,

Baderulhisham Baharudin said a 24-year-old Malaysian driver of the car, who is also a student at a private higher education institution in Kuala Lumpur, was arrested during the operation on Monday. “An inspection of the suspect’s family owned four-wheel-drive vehicle led to the discovery of 13 black plastic packages containing substances believed to be ganja buds, hidden beneath the rear passenger seat. “The drugs have the potential to ruin the lives of hundreds of thousands of people had they reached the market,” he told a press conference at the Kedah police contingent

Bid to smuggle batik from Thailand foiled KOTA BHARU: The General Operations Force Southeast Brigade has seized more than 8,000 pieces of smuggled batik cloth from Thailand and a lorry in an operation in Kampung Simpangan, Tumpat. Nibong, and saw a lorry arriving at the site, along with a boat from Thailand carrying several gunny sacks. “Several men were seen transferring the sacks onto the lorry. The team then stopped the vehicle in Kampung Simpangan and checked it,” he said in a statement. Its commander SAC Ahmad Radzi Hussain said the operation began at 7.30am on Tuesday when the raiding team used a drone to conduct observation of an illicit jetty in The inspection found that the sacks contained 8,800 pieces of batik cloth believed

to have been smuggled in from Thailand, he said, adding that a man, aged 32, was arrested and the merchandise (worth RM1.76 million) and the lorry (worth RM80,000) were seized. The case is being investigated under the Customs Act 1967, he said, adding that the suspect and the seized items have been handed to the Pengkalan Kubor Customs Department for further action. – Bernama

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Scam centre leader extradited BEIJING: An alleged leading member of a prominent crime syndicate that operated scam centres in Cambodia has been extradited to China. Cambodia has emerged as a hub for crime syndicates running fake romantic relationship and cryptocurrency investment schemes in which scammers – some willing, others trafficked – defraud internet users. But under pressure from several countries including China, which has called for the eradication of the scam centres, Cambodian authorities say they are cracking down on the industry. China’s Ministry of Public Security (MPS) published a video yesterday showing a man it identified as Liu Ren in handcuffs as security forces lifted a black bag off his head, after he had been escorted off a China Southern plane. “Recently, with the strong support of Cambodian authorities, a task force dispatched by the Ministry of Public Security extradited Liu Ren – a key member of the Chen Zhi criminal syndicate – back to China from Phnom Penh,” the ministry said in a statement. Phnom Penh extradited Prince Group’s China-born founder Chen Zhi in January after his conglomerate was sanctioned by the US and UK governments months earlier over its alleged involvement in cyberscams. The MPS hailed the extradition of Liu as a “success” in law enforcement cooperation with Cambodia. Chen, the MPS said, had directed Liu and others to establish the Jin Bei Group in Cambodia in 2016, with the company operating “telecom fraud parks” in the country and committing “large-scale telecom and online fraud involving massive sums of money”. – AFP Ice cream companies raided over price hike TOKYO: Summer is coming, a boom time for ice cream makers, but Japanese authorities have raided six major firms on suspicion of colluding to raise prices. Among the country’s biggest ice cream firms, the six “are suspected of colluding” to hike prices, a source familiar with the matter told AFP yesterday. Company officials are thought to have sent emails or met up for years to coordinate the timing and size of hikes, the unnamed source said. Officials from the the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) searched the head offices on Tuesday of Meiji Co, Morinaga Milk Industry Co, Lotte Co, Ezaki Glico Co, Morinaga & Co and Akagi Nyugyo Co, according to company officials and the source. Since around 2022, the ice cream companies have raised retail prices every year at around the same time, media reported. The JFTC is also investigating whether the companies took advantage of inflation to raise prices beyond what was justified by a spike in raw ingredient costs, according to Kyodo News. Five of the companies issued statements on Tuesday or yestersday saying their offices had been raided by the JFTC and that they “would cooperate with the investigation”. Natsuyo Suzuki of Akagi Nyugo also confirmed to AFP that the firm would work with investigators following an “on site inspection”. If the JFTC concludes that there was a cartel, the antitrust watchdog will order the firms to improve their business practices and pay a fine. – AFP

Putin hosts Asean leaders

Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump also said Washington will soon be able to reimpose sanctions against Russian oil. “Soon we will be able to do that as the oil is now flowing” through the Strait of Hormuz after the deal with Iran to end the Middle East war, Trump said. Washington had imposed and then extended a sanctions waiver for Russian oil cargoes already at sea, troubling European allies. Putin has repeatedly refused offers for face-to-face talks with Zelensky, insisting that Moscow intends to capture Ukraine’s eastern Donbas region by force. The Russian leader, 73, ordered a full-scale military attack on Ukraine in February 2022, which has since turned into Europe’s worst conflict since WWII. – AFP

humanitarian cooperation”. Facing Western sanctions over its Ukraine offensive, Moscow has reoriented its economy, especially oil exports, towards Asia. Asian countries have been particularly hard hit by the energy crisis triggered by the US-Israel war with Iran. Russia’s economy, on a war footing for four years, is struggling due to high inflation, a labour shortage and high borrowing costs. On the Ukrainian battlefield, the advance of forces has slowed this year. Kyiv has multiplied attacks on Russian soil, including Tatarstan, where the summit will be held. At the G7 in France, US President Donald Trump said Moscow should “make a deal” to end the Ukraine war, as he met Ukrainian leader

Middle East wars its main focus. Representatives of 11 Asean countries arrived in Kazan yesterday, with the main day of the summit set for today. It commemorates 35 years of collaboration between Russia and the Asean countries, the Kremlin said. Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia and Singapore are sending their prime ministers, while the Philippines will be represented by President Ferdinand Marcos. Myanmar, which has close ties to Moscow, will also send a delegation. Moscow said the leaders will “exchange views on global and regional problems” and new aims in Russia-Asean ties in “security, trade, investment and

KAZAN: President Vladimir Putin hosts a summit of Southeast Asian leaders in the central Russian city of Kazan, as the West pressures Moscow to end its Ukraine offensive. Putin has sought to deepen political and economic ties with Asia during Moscow’s more than four-year full-scale offensive against Ukraine. The summit in the capital of Tatarstan, around 700km east of Moscow, comes as the G7 meets in France with ending the Ukraine and o Summit commemorates 35 years of collaboration

SHOWING GRATITUDE ... Balinese Hindus place offerings on tables to celebrate Galungan at a temple in Denpasar, Bali, during which they give thanks for the creation of the Earth and its bounty. – AFPPIC

China calls for more South voices in UN BEIJING: Emerging markets suffer from inadequate representation at the United Nations, its authority increasingly challenged by small, strong or weak, developed or developing, are equal members of the international community,” Wang said, calling for more voices to be heard from the Global South. New challenges in quick rhino events” emerge continually, he said, referring to unexpected events or threats that are ignored despite their visibility.

East and Ukraine conflicts, urging dialogue as it presents itself as a pillar of global stability and an indispensable diplomatic player. It is the biggest buyer of Iranian and Russian oil, including pipeline supplies and seaborne shipments. The white paper aims to build international consensus on effective responses to global challenges, Wang said, and upholding the UN’s authority is fundamental to the success of the initiative. – Reuters

Wang urged efforts to commit firmly to a ceasefire in the Middle East, calling on all parties to work towards laying the foundation of a “sustainable security architecture in the region”, Xinhua news agency said. China routinely tries to cast itself as a peacemaker in both the Middle

escalating political and economic disputes, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said yesterday. The comments came in a rare press briefing in Beijing before the issuing of a white paper outlining ways to make global governance more just and equitable. “Countries, whether large or

succession bring intertwining crises, Wang said, adding, “The ship of civilisation has entered dangerous waters with hidden reefs and violent storms.” The disputes reveal deep-seated conflicts, while “black swan and grey

THURSDAY | JUNE 18, 2026

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Australian leader slams media

Seoul turns to Trump for Korea peace deal SEOUL: South Korea’s president has urged US President Donald Trump to help him make peace with North Korea, “just as he has resolved the conflict in the Middle East”, Lee Jae Myung’s office said yesterday. Trump fuelled that interest shortly after announcing the Iran deal, posting on social media an uncaptioned photograph of himself with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at their 2018 Singapore summit. Trump asked Lee about developments in inter-Korean relations during an exchange at the G7 summit in France, Seoul’s presidential office said in a statement yesterday. During the conversation, “President Lee requested that he (Trump) take the lead in achieving a peaceful resolution to the North Korean issue, just as he has resolved the conflict in the Middle East”, it said. “President Trump expressed his commitment to working toward a resolution of the North Korean issue.” Lee has taken a dovish approach towards North Korea, in contrast to his more hardline predecessor Yoon Suk Yeol. But Pyongyang has rejected his overtures, formally labelling Seoul its “most hostile” enemy and repeatedly declaring itself an“irreversible”nuclear state. North Korea experts say the chances of a meeting between Kim and Trump is low. “From North Korea’s perspective, there is virtually no reason to meet the United States,” said Yang Moo-jin, former president of the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul. – AFP “I don’t answer to the media. I answer to the Australian people.” She also pledged sweeping cuts to government spending, akin to Elon Musk’s DOGE in the United States, but misstated the name of the indigenous affairs department she would scrap. In another nod to the Trump administration, Hanson said Australia would need to re-evaluate its ties with international organisations. “We need to look at where we are with the United Nations,” she said. “We’ve been dictated to on too SYDNEY: The leader of Australia’s ascendant far-right party assailed the media yesterday and vowed to pull the country out of international organisations in an address briefly interrupted by the unfurling of a protest banner. For years a political outsider, Pauline Hanson’s One Nation has surged this year to become the country’s most popular party, according to opinion polls. The senator – long compared to US President Donald Trump or France’s Marine Le Pen – is also Australians’ favourite choice in recent polls to be prime minister at the next election, due to be held in 2028. Addressing the country’s top political journalists at Canberra’s National Press Club, Hanson condemned them for dismissing her rise as a blip. “Australians aren’t buying this crap from the political establishment and its media supporters anymore,” she said.

o Hanson pledges cuts to govt spending many occasions, and people want their sovereignty back.” Hanson also pledged she would scrap aid to Australia’s Pacific Island neighbours – nearly US$1.6 billion (RM6.5 billion) in 2023, according to the Lowy Institute – if they continued to accept development help from China. “China is a real big concern to me,” Hanson said. The senator dismissed the Australian government’s efforts to reach net zero carbon emissions. And she vowed to draw down the Australian state’s support for public broadcasting; telling a journalist from the taxpayer funded SBS that “you’re going to be without a job”. Hanson called for Australia to “dig baby dig” for energy rather than relying on its Asian partners. Her speech was briefly interrupted by protesters unfurling a banner accusing her of opposing a pay rise for workers Opinion polling does not suggest that One Nation would win a parliamentary majority in the next election but instead could serve a kingmaker role in a coalition of right-wing parties.

A banner put up by prostesters during Hanson’s address in Canberra yesterday. – REUTERSPIC

Albanese earlier yesterday said he would skip Hanson’s address but would instead be tuning in to the National Rugby League’s State of Origin game later in the day. – AFP

But it has dismissed One Nation’s policies – including seizing property owned by foreign residents – as divisive. Prime Minister Anthony

Australia’s government has acknowledged there are “legitimate concerns” about the economy and housing driving the rise in support for the far-right.

Spanish ex-PM Zapatero faces graft probe

MADRID: Former Spanish prime minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero yesterday began two days of unprecedented court hearings on suspected influence peddling, the latest corruption affair threatening the leftist government. The investigation into the Socialist titan comes as a string of graft probes into Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s family and former top political allies have threatened to topple his minority coalition. Clashes with US President Donald Trump and virulent criticism of Israel have made Sanchez a global progressive star, but the scandals have eroded the domestic standing of one of Europe’s few remaining Socialist leaders. Zapatero, who governed Spain from 2004 to 2011, was placed under formal investigation last month for alleged influence peddling in connection with the bailout of small airline Plus Ultra in 2021. Plus Ultra received €53 million

(RM250 million) of public money after 2020 lockdowns paralysed global travel. Investigating judge Jose Luis Calama has said Zapatero allegedly headed a “stable and hierarchical” structure that used “opaque financial channels”to conceal the movement of money and obtain bribes for his illicit manoeuvring. Zapatero has denied the allegations, while Sanchez has expressed “full support” for his mentor. A police search of Zapatero’s office found jewellery and luxury watches valued at €1.3 million, leading Calama to probe additional alleged offences of tax fraud and smuggling. Zapatero’s entourage attributes the hoard to a family inheritance. Zapatero began his hearing at the Audiencia Nacional court in Madrid – becoming the first former or serving Spanish prime minister to be declared as a suspect in a corruption probe. – AFP causing water to seep in. The report also cited poor maintenance and oversight of the worn-out hatch, adding that the operator’s lack of personnel with “sufficient expertise and experience in safe cruising” contributed to the disaster. Authorities said the absence of any survivors made for an “extremely difficult, painstaking” investigation that took more than two years to complete. – AFP

Zapatero arrives to be questioned by a judge. – AFPPIC

Japanese boat operator jailed five years over fatal disaster TOKYO: The head of a Japanese sightseeing boat company was sentenced to five years in jail yesterday over the 2022 sinking of a vessel that killed at least 20 people. verdict, Jiji Press reported. Katsurada was arrested in 2024 on charges including professional negligence resulting in death, a coastguard official said.

and six people are still listed listed as missing after the April 23, 2022 incident off the Shiretoko Peninsula famous for its wildlife and scenery. The Kushiro District Court yesterday “handed down five years in jail” to Seiichi Katsurada, president of the Kazu I ’s operating company, a court spokesman said. During the trial, Katsurada reportedly denied criminal responsibility. His lawyer has appealed the

He was released on bail in October 2024 and will remain out of custody pending the outcome of his appeal. A report by a government transport committee concluded in 2023 that the Kazu I set sail without a deck hatch properly fastened,

An investigation faulted a deck hatch and improper maintenance aboard the Kazu I , which was carrying 24 tourists and two crew when it sank off the northern island of Hokkaido. Twenty bodies were recovered