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FRIDAY JUN 19, 2026

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Eye on 1,600 firms over dubious Socso incentive claims

MACC probe focuses on alleged discrepancies under Daya Kerjaya 2.0 programme involving RM45 million.

Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY

Report on — page 5

SCAN ME No. 9187 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

‘Polygraph test not absolute yardstick for determining integrity’ Report Although used as support option, procedure cannot be absolute identifier of honesty or deception: Criminologists on — page 4

Malaysian Examinations Council announces 99.96% of candidates achieve threshold to qualify for certificate. STPM results show improvement, with CGPA rising to 2.88

Top scorers (from left) Saw Xin En, Yeoh Chwen Yih dan R. Nanthini congratulating one another during the STPM Best Student Award ceremony held yesterday at the Malaysian Examinations Council in Bandar Baru Selayang, Selangor. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Report on — page 3

Thank you, Russia Report on h page 2 Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expresses appreciation to Russian President Vladimir Putin for support in strengthening energy cooperation with Malaysia.

FRIDAY | JUNE 19, 2026

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Malaysia-Russia boost bilateral cooperation

affordable, convenient and inclusive for all consumers,“ he said, adding that the decision demonstrates that consumer interests could be prioritised while supporting greater financial inclusion and enhancing the overall banking experience. Sunway University Economics Professor Dr Yeah Kim Leng also lauded the abolition of the fee. He said the move sends a positive message to the public and encourages greater use of ATM banking services. “It will also help reduce reliance on counter services, leading to improved banking efficiency and greater convenience for customers.” Yeah said the measure demonstrates how small cost savings could collectively benefit millions of banking customers nationwide. – Bernama RMAF plans to replace ageing C-130 aircraft SUBANG: The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) plans to replace its existing C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, in line with growing operational demands and the ageing condition of the fleet. RMAF chief Jen Tan Sri Muhamad Norazlan Aris said the plan is receiving special attention as out of the 10 units of C-130 aircraft that it currently operates, the earliest one received is now 50 years old while the latest is 31 years old. He said rising maintenance costs for ageing aircraft coupled with the technological advantages and greater payload capacity of newer-generation aircraft make the replacement a necessity despite their proven capabilities. “RMAF responsibilities are becoming greater and more challenging. Therefore, we need assets capable of carrying out those tasks,” he said after the 68th RMAF anniversary parade yesterday. He said RMAF is also conducting studies on replacing its multi-role combat aircraft and increasing the number of Light Combat Aircraft by 2035, as existing assets are expected to face obsolescence and maintenance support issues by then. He added that RMAF had yet to decide whether to acquire the 4.5-generation, fifth generation or sixth-generation aircraft, as any new procurement must take into account the National Defence Policy. He said RMAF is progressively strengthening its intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities to enhance the monitoring of the country’s maritime zones, particularly in the South China Sea. Muhamad Norazlan said the second phase of the initiative would involve procuring three additional Anka Medium Altitude Long Endurance-Unmanned Aerial System units. He said the Defence Ministry has agreed in principle to the procurement and is awaiting funding for this phase, which would also include electronic warfare and ISR suites. “(With the) three existing units and an additional three (from phase two), our long-term target is to operate a total of nine Anka-Unmanned Aerial System aircraft.” Muhamad Norazlan said RMAF is scheduled to receive its first P-72M maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) from Italy next April, further strengthening air surveillance operations. “Its (MPA) monitoring effectiveness is superior and it will progressively enhance RMAF’s capability in executing ISR mission sets.” He added that the responsibility for safeguarding the sovereignty of the Exclusive Economic Zone in the South China Sea does not rest solely on the RMAF but is supported by joint operations with other national security agencies. Muhamad Norazlan also said RMAF is in the final review stage of procuring a Medium-Range Air Defence (Merad) system. “The procurement of the Merad system is critical to complete the country’s air defence umbrella.” – Bernama

KAZAN: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed appreciation to Russian President Vladimir Putin for Russia’s support in strengthening energy cooperation with Malaysia, especially with Petronas. He said bilateral mechanisms between Malaysia and Russia had expanded across various fields, including trade, investment, the halal economy and finance. He added that Malaysia is also close to finalising visa liberalisation arrangements with Russia, which would further facilitate exchanges and cooperation between the two countries. Russia is aiming to abolish visa requirements for citizens of Malaysia, Indonesia and Kuwait this year. Anwar, who is also Finance minister, said the Russian Foreign Ministry would step up efforts to finalise and coordinate the relevant agreements. In his opening remarks at the bilateral meeting with Putin here yesterday, Anwar also thanked Putin for Russia’s support. “You have given fantastic support. Thank you very much. Petronas was here with your counterpart (Rosneft). (It also had meetings) with some of the other companies here.” PJSC Rosneft Oil Company is Russia’s largest integrated energy corporation and one of the largest public oil and gas companies globally, specialising in hydrocarbon exploration, production, refining and the sale of petroleum products. Headquartered in Moscow, the company accounts for roughly 40% of Russia’s total oil production. In April, Anwar had said Petronas would negotiate with Russia to secure sufficient oil supplies for domestic needs and that Putrajaya’s good relations with Moscow placed the country in a favourable position to pursue such negotiations. He said Malaysia greatly appreciates Putin’s commitment to enhancing energy cooperation and the support extended during the energy crisis, Bernama reported. He expressed hope that Russia would continue to support efforts in other areas, such as improving air connectivity between Malaysia and Russian cities, including Moscow and Kazan, to boost tourism, trade and people-to-people links. Anwar said both countries are exploring cooperation in the halal economy and finance while discussions on trade and investment continue to progress positively.

o Both nations expand ties across various fields, including energy, trade, investment, halal economy and finance: PM

Anwar and Putin before attending the Asean-Russia Commemorative Summit gala dinner at the Gallery Area of the Tatar State Academic Theatre in Kazan yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

billion (RM8.72 billion). Malaysia’s main exports to Russia comprise electrical and electronic products, machinery, equipment and parts as well as processed food products. Its principal imports from Russia include petroleum products, minerals, chemicals and chemical-based products.

In 2024, total Asean-Russia trade amounted to US$18.1 billion (RM74.21 billion) while Russian foreign direct investment in Asean was recorded at US$92.97 million (RM367.90 million). Russia was Malaysia’s ninth-largest trading partner among European nations in 2025, with total trade valued at US$2.04

Consumers, industry stakeholders laud RM1 ATM fee waiver KUALA LUMPUR: The decision to waive the RM1 fee for interbank cash withdrawals at automated teller machines (ATM) and Smart Recycler Machines from July 1 has been widely welcomed by consumers and industry stakeholders. Sales executive Lim Wei Jian, 38, also welcomed the move, saying it would benefit consumers who often rely on ATM operated by other banks near their workplaces. The Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) welcomed the decision, describing it as a significant win for consumers. Its CEO Dr Saravanan Thambirajah said the waiver removes an unnecessary cost imposed on consumers when accessing their own money.

“My salary account is with one bank but the nearest ATM to my office belongs to another bank. Previously, I would think twice before making a withdrawal because of the extra charge. With the fee removed, it will be more convenient and cost-effective for me.” Technician R. Karthikeyan, 42, said the waiver would particularly benefit residents in suburban areas where ATM options are limited. “The ATM closest to my home is not that of my bank. So, I usually end up paying the RM1 charge whenever I need cash urgently. It may seem like a small amount, but over time, the charges add up. This is a positive move for ordinary consumers.”

Health Ministry administrative officer Nurul Aisyah Mohd Noor, 34, said although the charge may be minimal, the savings would accumulate for consumers who frequently use ATM services outside their bank network. “Not everyone has easy access to their own bank ATM, especially when travelling or during emergencies. Removing the fee gives consumers greater flexibility and convenience.” Nurul Aisyah expressed hope that banks would continue reviewing other service charges to ensure that basic banking services remain affordable and accessible to all Malaysians.

He said it would particularly benefit consumers in rural and semi-rural areas, senior citizens and those with limited access to their bank ATM network. “Consumers will now have greater flexibility to withdraw cash from any participating ATM without worrying about additional charges.” Saravanan said Fomca had consistently advocated the removal of the fee. He expressed hope that the waiver would become a permanent policy. “Access to basic banking services should be

FRIDAY | JUNE 19, 2026

3 STPM 2025 results improve as national CGPA climbs to 2.88

Election director, deputy sec-gen removed from PN

Ű BY ANDREW SAGAYAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

KUALA LUMPUR: Perikatan Nasional (PN) has removed election director Datuk Dr Mohd Radzi Md Jidin and deputy secretary-general Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali from the coalition as part of its plan for the upcoming Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections. PN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, who made the announcement on Wednesday night, said the removal of both senior leaders is an immediate restructuring of PN leadership and administrative structure. “This is as part of our preparations for the state elections in Johor and Negeri Sembilan. “The restructuring, under the powers vested in the chairman by Clauses 8.3(V), (VI), and (VII) of the Perikatan Nasional Constitution, takes effect immediately and includes the following changes. “Former election director Datuk Dr Mohd Radzi Md Jidin has been relieved of his duties and will be replaced by Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, who will now assume the role of Perikatan Nasional election director,” Ahmad Samsuri said in a statement. He said the appointment places one of PN’s most prominent political figures at the helm of the coalition’s election machinery as it gears up for key state level contests. Ahmad Samsuri said following Muhammad Sanusi’s appointment as election director, the latter has stepped down from his role as treasurer. “The position of treasurer will now be assumed by Subramaniam Surunaryan, who has been appointed to oversee the coalition’s financial administration and management,” he said. PN also announced that Mohamed Azmin has been relieved of his position as deputy secretary-general in order to comply with the requirements of the PN constitution. However, no replacement for Mohamed Azmin’s position was announced in the statement. Ahmad Samsuri further confirmed that an emergency meeting of the Perikatan Nasional supreme council will be convened in the near future to further strengthen the coalition’s organisational structure and preparations ahead of upcoming electoral contests. The restructuring comes as PN intensifies preparations for the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections, with the coalition expected to unveil further organisational and strategic measures in the coming weeks.

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o Examinations council honours 18 top students, including achievers with special needs, with each receiving RM1,000 cash, plaque and certificate

Cambridge University Press and Assessment in the United Kingdom since 1982, with its standards continuing to be monitored through the STPM Certification Committee. The council also honoured 18 national top students across several categories, each receiving RM1,000 in cash, a plaque and a certificate. Recipients included seven top students from the Science stream, seven from the Social Science stream, one Orang Asli student and three students with special educational needs covering the spastic, blind and visually impaired categories. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek announced that public universities will offer undergraduate tuition fee waivers to top STPM students beginning this year. The fee waivers also applies to the 18 national top students. “I extend my deepest appreciation to all public universities for this commitment. If possible, we hope to expand this further,” she said, while expressing hope that the initiative could grow from one recipient this year to five in subsequent years. She also highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the Form Six ecosystem. Two new institutions – Form Six College Alor Setar and Form Six College Gombak – were established this year, bringing the nationwide total to 29 Form Six colleges, alongside 99 Mod 2 schools and 502 Mod 3 schools. Student welfare efforts included the distribution of book vouchers worth RM9.23 million to 92,291 Form Six students as of June 15. On the digital front, 18 of 29 Form Six colleges are now equipped with smart boards, with plans to extend this to all colleges progressively. Leadership development also received attention, with a National Form Six Student Representative Council established and allocated RM50,000 for national-level programmes, alongside a National Form Six Congress planned for August and co-curricular activities including the Form Six Carnival and Royal Oratory Competition scheduled for October .

SELAYANG: The 2025 Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) examination results have shown broad improvement, with the national cumulative grade point average (CGPA) climbing to 2.88 from 2.85 the previous year, the Malaysian Examinations Council announced yesterday. Its chairman Prof Datuk Dr Md Amin Md Taff said 1,336 candidates, or 3.50%, achieved a perfect CGPA of 4.00, up from 1,266 candidates, or 3.06%, in 2024. The proportion of candidates scoring a CGPA of 3.75 and above rose to 11.81% from 10.71%, while those attaining a CGPA of 3.00 and above increased to 46.63% from 44.97%. The portion of candidates scoring straight As in four or five subjects climbed to 3.53% from 3.09%, while the percentage obtaining full passes in four and

highest participation with 38,083 candidates. All 23 subjects offered this year recorded full-pass rates above 70%. Arabic Language and Tamil Language improved by more than three percentage points compared with 2024, while Literature in English and Chinese Language saw declines of more than three percentage points. The remaining 19 subjects maintained stable year on-year performance. Md Amin reaffirmed the international standing of the qualification, adding that STPM has been recognised as equivalent to the GCE A-Level administered by

five subjects – grades C and above – rose to 77.64% from 76.55%. The gains were achieved despite a drop in candidate numbers, with registrations falling to 40,199 from 42,861 in 2024 and attendance declining to 38,144 from 41,434. Of those who sat for the examination, 38,128 candidates, or 99.96%, qualified for the STPM certificate by obtaining at least a partial pass in one subject. Candidates from the Social Science stream made up the vast majority at 93.79%, with the remaining 6.21% from the Science stream. General Studies, a compulsory subject, recorded the

Top Orang Asli student Hazaril flanked by his parents Hassan Atin and Zahida Ima. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA THESUN

Discipline, peer and parental support help ‘special’ students shine GOMBAK: Sleeping only about six hours a night and relying heavily on assistive technology, a visually impaired STPM 2025 top achiever from Kuala Lumpur has shown how perseverance, discipline and technology can overcome educational barriers. I would ask my friends for help. Sometimes, they take photos, which I then use AI tools to scan and transcribe into text,” he said. Yeoh aspires to become a lawyer, saying that while he is interested in business, he believes the legal field better suits his strengths in strategic thinking and perseverance. “STPM is not an easy path, but it is worth it for its high-quality certificate,” he added. Hailing from Kampung Paya Mendoi in Kuala Krau, Pahang, the eldest of two siblings said staying in the hostel helped ease accessibility issues due to the distance between his home and school. “For improvements in terms of access, I think there should be more schools established with proper functions. and relatives. “At first, I didn’t really accept it. But when my teachers and friends were very supportive, I started to feel comfortable and I could see my path in STPM.”

Meanwhile, Hazaril Hakimi Hassan, 20, who has been named among the STPM 2025 national top achievers in the Orang Asli category, attributed a structured hostel routine, strong peer support and disciplined mindset management to helping him navigate the challenges of the examination. Reflecting on his academic journey, he highlighted mental resilience as one of the biggest challenges faced during STPM, particularly when dealing with difficult subjects or setbacks.

Looking ahead, he aspires to become a Malay language lecturer. He also encouraged STPM candidates not to give up and to seek support from teachers and friends throughout their studies. “If we study alone, we may feel overwhelmed. But with supportive teachers and friends, we can learn together and feel less burdened,” he added. – BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI

Speaking to theSun , student Yeoh Chwen Yih, 20, said he relies on specialised learning tools, including text-to-Braille materials and laptop based accessibility software that reads digital documents aloud. In the classroom, his main challenge is accessing information written on the whiteboard. “If teachers write on the board,

“Business involves a lot of numbers, and I think it is difficult in the corporate sector. But law evaluates a person’s thinking and strategy, so I feel I have a better chance there,” he said. Yeoh also praised his teachers for being understanding and supportive throughout his academic journey.

“The government could also provide assistance to Orang Asli students who live far away from schools and face difficulties in travelling to and from school,” he said. Hazaril added that his decision to continue his studies in STPM was encouraged by his parents

FRIDAY | JUNE 19, 2026

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Two retirees win total of RM15.3 million Sports Toto jackpots

Ű BY ANDREW SAGAYAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

his daily routine. When he discovered he had won, he initially struggled to believe it despite repeatedly verifying the ticket. “The next thing I did was wake my wife and ask her to verify the ticket because I thought I was seeing things,” he said. With the winning numbers 3, 8, 11, 25, 38 and 42, he took home RM3,499,722.25. Expressing gratitude for the windfall, he said it would provide greater financial comfort during retirement.

jackpot pool was won by a punter from Kuala Lumpur through an i-System ticket. Meanwhile, a 65-year-old retired construction worker from Penang won RM3.5 million after striking the Star Toto 6/50 Jackpot 1 on June 10 with a Lucky Pick ticket. A loyal Sports Toto customer, he had spent RM10 on Lucky Pick tickets for many years. The senior citizen said checking his tickets through the Sports Toto mobile app before bedtime had become part of

The retiree said he was overwhelmed when he discovered he had won. “I checked the results several times to make sure I had not read them wrongly. Once I was certain, I immediately shared the news with my family.” Asked about his plans for the prize money, he said he intended to manage the funds prudently, focusing on providing for his family and securing a better future for his grandchildren. A ticket purchased for RM2 earned him RM11,806,469.85, while the remaining RM195,148.20 from the

many regular players, he never expected his perseverance would one day lead to a life-changing windfall. The winning pair of numbers, 1660 and 5093, was derived from the birth certificate numbers of his two grandchildren. “My grandchildren have brought so much joy and happiness to our family, but I never imagined they would one day change our lives in such an extraordinary way,” he was quoted as saying in a statement issued yesterday by STM Lottery Sdn Bhd.

enforcement agencies adopt it without wider institutional reforms, said Transparency International Malaysia president Dr Raymon Ram. He added that polygraph testing may have value as a supplementary screening or interview option in narrowly defined high-risk settings, but should not be treated as a primary integrity safeguard. “The scientific evidence surrounding polygraph reliability remains contested, and there is no consensus that it can accurately determine honesty, integrity or corruption risk on a standalone basis,” he told theSun . However, Raymon said the greater concern was whether agencies would PETALING JAYA: Polygraph testing may still assist integrity screening and investigations, but experts say it cannot be treated as a standalone measure of honesty or deception. Independent criminologist Datuk Shahul Hamid Abdul Rahim said polygraph testing remains relevant as a support option to identify inconsistencies in responses and guide further scrutiny. However, he stressed that it was not a definitive instrument for determining whether a person was telling the truth or lying. “Evidence based solely on polygraph testing is not sufficiently accurate. It is only 80% to 90% accurate and even then, it cannot be used as evidence in court unless supported by expert testimony,” he told theSun . While accuracy could reach 90% when using specific questions, Shahul added that it could fall to between 70% and 80% during general screening processes. He explained that polygraph testing does not detect lies directly but measures physiological responses such as pulse rate, blood pressure, respiration and skin readings, all of which could be influenced by psychological factors. According to Shahul, the risk of false positives could range from 10% to 25%, with truthful individuals potentially assessed as deceptive due to nervousness, illness, medication, anxiety, trauma, poor questioning techniques or an examiner lacking sufficient expertise. Conversely, deceptive individuals may be assessed as truthful if they are able to control their emotions, employ countermeasures or display KUALA LUMPUR: Two long-time Sports Toto punters recently struck it lucky, collectively taking home more than RM15.3 million in jackpot prizes. The first winner, a 62-year-old retired salesman from Perak, won RM11.8 million from the RM12 million Sports Toto 4D Jackpot 1 prize draw on May 31. Having played Sports Toto 4D games for the past 30 years, he typically spent between RM10 and RM20 per draw. Like Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Lie detector tests not definitive proof of honesty

o Findings must be supported by other evidence and assessments, say criminologists

secure reporting mechanisms, while urging agencies to invest in internal controls, audit functions and corruption risk management programmes. Targeted job rotation could also help prevent corruption in high-risk areas such as procurement, licensing, enforcement, inspections, investigations and border control, he added. On lifestyle audits, Raymon said they could be useful when there were reasonable grounds to examine discrepancies between an individual’s lifestyle and legitimate income, but must be intelligence-led, proportionate and independently supervised. “Without independent oversight, even well-designed integrity tools can be misused.” – by Faiz Ruzman other evidence-based screening measures. Likewise, disciplinary proceedings and criminal investigations should be supported by documentary evidence, witness statements, digital evidence, forensic findings and other investigative methods. He added that safeguards were particularly important when polygraph findings could affect employment, promotion or investigation outcomes. Organisations should also provide an appeal process for individuals wishing to challenge the findings or raise concerns about how the test was conducted. “Participation should be based on informed consent, with individuals fully understanding the purpose and implications of the examination. “Tests should only be conducted by properly trained and certified examiners who adhere to recognised professional and ethical standards. “Strict data governance and privacy protections are equally important. Polygraph records should be securely stored, access restricted to authorised personnel and retention periods clearly defined. “Organisations must clearly communicate that polygraph testing is only one component of a broader integrity management framework and should never be treated as infallible,” he said.

The commission said the seminar aimed to enhance understanding of polygraph technology as a support option for employment screening, organisational integrity management and security-related investigations. The initiative has also prompted questions about how such tests should be used in integrity and security-related decision-making. Providing further insight, Asian Criminological Society board member and criminologist Datuk Dr P. Sundramoorthy said polygraph testing should not be regarded as a definitive truth verification instrument. “Polygraphs may help generate leads, identify inconsistencies or encourage disclosures, but final decisions should rest on a broader evidentiary foundation. “A false positive may unfairly damage a person’s reputation, career and future opportunities, while a false negative may create a false sense of security and allow potentially high risk individuals to avoid detection. “For this reason, polygraph findings should always be interpreted cautiously and alongside other evidence.” In the context of employment screening, Sundramoorthy said recruitment decisions should also rely on background checks, reference verification, psychological assessments, integrity interviews and

Shahul said deceptive individuals may be assessed as truthful if they are able to control their emotions, employ countermeasures or display no significant physiological response. – SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN/THESUN

The comments come after the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission held the Malaysian Polygraph Seminar: The Role of Polygraph in Employment Screening at the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Academy on May 22.

no significant physiological response. “If there is too much reliance on polygraph testing, there is a risk of injustice against individuals who may not have committed any wrongdoing. “That is the danger. We cannot depend solely on polygraph testing.”

‘Polygraphs not substitute for anti-corruption reforms’ PETALING JAYA: Polygraph testing risks becoming a cosmetic anti-corruption measure if use the method as a visible response to integrity concerns while failing to address deeper governance weaknesses. Polygraph results should not be allowed to determine a person’s career or disciplinary outcome on their own, given the risk of false positives and false negatives, he added. records, procurement documentation, digital forensic evidence, witness testimony, unexplained wealth indicators and corroborating documentation.

“Integrity within enforcement agencies is built through strong institutions – effective oversight, verified asset and interest declarations, robust conflict-of-interest controls, protected whistleblowing channels, professional internal audit functions and consistent enforcement of disciplinary measures. “No technology or screening tool can substitute for these fundamentals.” He said any use of polygraph testing should operate within a clearly defined legal and governance framework, supported by independent oversight, transparency, regular reviews and safeguards against misuse.

“Ultimately, institutional credibility depends on decisions being grounded in evidence, due process and transparency rather than reliance on any single screening technology.” Raymon said agencies should prioritise verifiable, system-based integrity controls that address corruption risks at their source, including asset, income and conflict of-interest declaration systems. Such declarations should be verified, reviewed periodically and backed by meaningful penalties for non-compliance, he said. He also called for stronger whistleblower protection through

“Polygraph results should be treated, at most, as one supporting indicator and should never be the sole or decisive basis for recruitment, promotion, disciplinary action or findings of misconduct. “With the ongoing debate over reliability and the risk of both false positives and false negatives, using polygraph outcomes as a determinative employment or disciplinary tool would raise significant concerns relating to fairness, due process, reputational harm and potential abuse. “Decisions should be based on objective evidence such as financial

FRIDAY | JUNE 19, 2026

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MACC eyeing 1,600 firms in Socso programme probe

Gardener faces murder charge

BATU GAJAH: A gardener was charged in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday with the murder of a contract worker in Kampung Gajah last week. Mohammad Farizzal Fazly Mohd Zulkifly, 30, was brought before Magistrate Mohd Harith Mohd Mazlan, who fixed July 20 for mention. No plea was recorded as the offence falls under the jurisdiction of the High Court. He is accused of murdering Muhammad Fahmi Abdullah, 29, by the roadside along Jalan Utama, Jalan Trans Perak, in the Central Perak district between 4.30am and 5.49am on June 10. The charge, under Section 302 of the Penal Code, carries the death penalty or imprisonment of up to 40 years and, if the death sentence is not imposed, no fewer than 12 strokes of the cane. Prosecuting officer Insp Jagdeep Singh Jaswant Singh appeared for the prosecution, while the accused was unrepresented. In a separate case, a salesman pleaded guilty in the Sessions Court in Shah Alam yesterday to attacking a motorcyclist with a meat cleaver on the Federal Highway last Thursday. Azmi Jantan, 42, entered the plea before Judge Datin Fatimah Zahari. He was charged with intentionally causing grievous hurt to Mohd Fairus Jaafar, 45, with a meat cleaver at Km14.6 along the motorcycle lane near Section 13 of the Federal Highway at 8.19am on June 11. The offence is punishable under Section 326 of the Penal Code, which provides for a maximum prison sentence of 20 years, a fine or caning. DPP Ho Zee Xing proposed bail of RM30,000 in one surety and requested that the accused surrender his passport and report to a police station once a month. The unrepresented accused appealed for a lower bail amount of RM5,000, citing his responsibility to support his wife. The court granted bail of RM15,000 in one surety and ordered him to report monthly to a police station until the disposal of the case. It also set July 8 for the presentation of facts and sentencing. A video widely shared online showed a man being attacked with a meat cleaver along the Kuala Lumpur-bound motorcycle lane of the Federal Highway near Section 13, sustaining injuries to his head and arms. – Bernama MACC seeks restraining order on RM5.5b assets KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court has fixed Aug 13 to hear an application by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to restrain Toh Puan Na’imah Abdul Khalid from managing offshore assets in Jersey, a British Crown territory, valued at US$157.5 million (RM667 million) and £85 million (RM4.9 billion). The application seeks to prohibit the widow of the late Tun Daim Zainuddin, as well as any parties linked to her, from dealing with the assets. Judge Noor Ruwena Md Nurdin set the hearing date during case management proceedings yesterday, attended by DPP Mahadi Abdul Jumaat and lawyer Muhammad Nizamuddin Abdul Hamid, who appeared for Na’imah, who was excused from attending the proceedings. According to court documents, the application was filed on June 25 last year after MACC alleged that the assets were acquired by Na’imah or individuals associated with her in Malaysia and had not been declared to the Inland Revenue Board. The application was made under Section 53 of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (AMLATFPUAA) following investigations under Section 113 of the Income Tax Act and Section 4(1) of the AMLATFPUAA. This is the third bid by the prosecution involving overseas assets, following earlier proceedings concerning assets in the United Kingdom and Singapore. – Bernama

o Anti-graft agency estimates losses of

persons with disabilities to channel payments to third parties. Investigations revealed that the alleged misappropriation took place between 2024 and 2025, during which several companies submitted false claims by declaring individuals who did not work for them to secure government hiring incentives. Meanwhile, Socso CEO Datuk Seri Dr Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed said the agency had recovered RM1.26 million as of yesterday from employers who admitted making fraudulent claims under the Daya Kerjaya 2.0 programme. On June 9, MACC detained 73 individuals, comprising 48 men and 25 women aged in their 20s and 70s, who operated as agents and company owners across the country except Perlis, for their alleged involvement in a syndicate that submitted false Daya Kerjaya 2.0 claims involving about RM9 million. Initial investigations indicated the suspects operated by submitting fraudulent claims under a government employment incentive scheme that provided RM1,500 a month for six months for each employee hired by private companies and government-linked entities.

“We aim to complete the probe through close cooperation with Socso, not only at the headquarters but also at the state level. “Once investigations are completed, we will begin charging those involved,” he said at a special press conference yesterday. Op Daya, launched on June 9, is a joint operation between MACC and Socso to investigate the misappropriation of incentive claims under the Daya Kerjaya 2.0 programme, Bernama reported. As of last Tuesday, 63 investigation papers had been opened, resulting in the detention of 97 individuals, comprising 86 company owners and 11 agents assisting in the investigation. Of those detained, 77 have been remanded, while statements have been recorded from 577 individuals. During the operation, 36 corporate bank accounts containing RM463,076 were frozen, while movable assets, including gold, cash and other valuables worth an estimated RM74,198, were seized. According to Abd Halim, the fraudulent tactics involved misusing personal data for incentive claims, providing one-off token payments to employees after full claims had been made and exploiting the details of

PUTRAJAYA: Anti Corruption Commission (MACC) has identified 1,638 companies suspected of submitting false claims to obtain incentives under the Social Security Organisation (Socso) Daya Kerjaya 2.0 programme, involving estimated losses of RM45 million. MACC chief commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman said investigations are currently focused on 143 companies alleged to have submitted false claims involving about RM9 million, before expanding to the remaining firms identified through intelligence gathering and investigations. “There is no time limit for this investigation. We do not need to rush and we are not racing against time. RM45m as investigations widen into alleged false incentive claims The Malaysian

Abd Halim (centre) during the press conference yesterday that was also attended by Mohammed Azman (left). – BERNAMAPIC

PSM CEO claims trial to corruption charges KUALA LUMPUR: Perbadanan Stadium Malaysia (PSM) CEO claimed trial in the Sessions Court yesterday to seven corruption charges involving RM1.45 million linked to an RM8.7 million project to upgrade the National Squash Centre in Bukit Jalil. The charge was framed under Section 16(a)(B) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Act 2009 and is punishable under Section 24(1) of the same Act, which carries a maximum jail term of 20 years and a fine of no less than five times the value of the gratification or RM10,000, whichever is higher.

Mohd Yusoff represented the accused. Earlier, Noralis proposed bail of RM200,000 in one Malaysian surety, citing the seriousness of the offences and the position of the accused. She also requested that Iliyas surrender his travel documents, report to the MACC office once a month and refrain from interacting with prosecution witnesses. Mohd Yusmadi sought a lower bail of between RM50,000 and RM80,000, saying his client had been suspended from duty and had a schoolgoing child to support. Suzana set bail at RM100,000 in one surety and imposed the additional conditions requested by the prosecution, including a prohibition on contacting prosecution witnesses until the case is concluded. The court fixed July 27 for mention and document submission. – Bernama

Iliyas Jamil, 42, pleaded not guilty after the charges were read before Judge Suzana Hussin. Under the first charge, he is accused of soliciting RM1 million from Yap Yeow Kuen, 60, at the PSM office on Level 2 of Stadium Nasional, Kuala Lumpur Sports City, Sri Petaling, on Feb 24. The alleged bribe was purportedly sought in return for selecting Aerolux Power Constructions Sdn Bhd to secure the RM8,733,197 contract to upgrade courts and sports facilities at the National Squash Centre.

For the second to seventh charges, Iliyas is accused of receiving RM450,000 in cash from Yap as inducement for awarding the project to the same company. The offences were allegedly committed at the PSM office and a restaurant in Sri Petaling between Feb 25 and April 13. The charges were also framed under Section 16(a)(B) of the MACC Act 2009, punishable under Section 24(1). DPP Noralis Mat appeared for the prosecution, while lawyer Mohd Yusmadi

FRIDAY | JUNE 19, 2026

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Joint effort to make 1,400 Bak Chang dumplings

Seamstress masters tailoring skills despite lack of fingers PASIR PUTEH: Being born without fingers on her left hand has not prevented a woman from Kampung Tasek in Bukit Jawa, who is a registered person with disability, from building an independent life through tailoring, a trade that has sustained her family for more than two decades. For 46-year-old Liza Mamat, her physical disability has never been a reason to depend on others. Instead, it became the motivation to master a skill that could secure her family’s future. The mother of four said her interest in sewing began as a teenager after watching her elder sister, Yati, 55, complete orders for women’s clothing, including the traditional baju kurung . Inspired, Liza enrolled in a tailoring course at the Industrial Training and Rehabilitation Centre in Bangi, Selangor, in 2003 to hone her skills. “Back then, I realised I needed a skill of my own to help earn a living despite not having a high level of education. So, I chose sewing and worked hard to master it,” she told Bernama recently. Liza said the biggest challenge in the early years was adapting to sewing machines and equipment designed for people with a perfect pair of hands. “One of the difficulties was using tools that required both hands, including handling sewing equipment and cutting fabric. But I never gave up. Through constant practice, I developed my own techniques and methods,” she said. After completing the nine-month course, she began taking small orders from neighbours and friends before steadily building a loyal customer base. Today, Liza produces a variety of garments, including baju kurung and baju Melayu , while also offering alteration and repair services. Each outfit takes about two hours to complete, with charges ranging from RM45 to RM100 depending on the design. She is capable of fulfilling up to 60 orders a month. Liza said she takes great care with every order, as customer satisfaction remains key to maintaining the trust she has built over the years. She said the support of her family, particularly her husband, Mohd Kufri Omar, 47, who is also physically disabled, has been a constant source of strength throughout her journey.

Festival, also known as the Dumpling Festival. The programme, organised by Village Community Management Council Taman Lucky with the support of Sungai Puyu state assemblyman Phee Syn Tze, brought together volunteers from the Lucky Park Tua Pek Kong Temple, council members and interested residents to learn the traditional craft of dumpling-making. Bak Chang , also known as rice dumplings or Zongzi , is a traditional Chinese festive food associated with the festival, which falls on the fifth day of the fifth month of the lunar calendar. This year, it is celebrated today. The festival commemorates Qu Yuan, a poet and minister of the ancient state of Chu who, according to legend, drowned himself in the Miluo River in protest against corruption and the fall of his state. The tradition of eating Bak Chang is said to have originated from

villagers who raced out on boats to search for Qu Yuan, throwing rice dumplings into the river to prevent fish from eating his body. “Traditionally, preparing Bak Chang is a time-consuming process that involves many steps, including preparing the ingredients, wrapping and cooking. Through this community activity, participants can work together, share responsibilities and complete the preparation more efficiently while enjoying social interaction and companionship,” she said. Phee added that the programme helped reduce the financial burden on families by pooling resources collectively. Sponsors contributed cooking gas, glutinous rice, pork and salted eggs, with total costs amounting to approximately RM4,000. Leading the dumpling-making effort was 67-year-old Ooi Chooi Chai, who has been making Bak Chang since she was 21 and has been involved in the community programme with Phee for the past three years. A veteran of a Nyonya chang competition she won about seven or eight years ago, her decades of experience proved invaluable throughout the process. Preparations began on Saturday, when volunteers spent half a day preparing ingredients. Activities resumed on Sunday at about 7.30am, with volunteers cooking rice, marinating pork filling and preparing chestnuts, mushrooms and salted duck egg yolks before wrapping the dumplings by hand. Male volunteers also contributed by carrying out physically demanding tasks such as frying the glutinous rice and assisting with heavy lifting and logistics. At the end of the programme, volunteers took home the dumplings to celebrate the festival with their families. Phee said such initiatives help ensure traditional customs remain relevant by encouraging active community participation rather than passive observation. “By bringing people together through traditional activities such as this, we can ensure these customs continue to be appreciated and passed on to future generations,” she added.

o Initiative aims to preserve art of preparing traditional delicacy while strengthening community ties ahead of Dragon Boat festival

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

GEORGE TOWN: More than 25 volunteers came together last Sunday to prepare 1,400 Bak Chang in a community initiative aimed at preserving cultural heritage and strengthening ties among residents ahead of the Dragon Boat

Syn Tze and former Penang state executive councillor Datuk Seri Phee Boon Poh (4th and 5th from left) with volunteers during the event. – T.C. KHOR/THESUN

FRIDAY | JUNE 19, 2026

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Taiwan president hoping for $14b US arms sale

Call to reduce emissions for safety of children PHNOM PENH: A United Nations agency is calling on countries to urgently reduce emissions, phase out fossil fuels and accelerate the shift to renewable energy to protect children worldwide. The United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) said more children are being exposed to harsh weather conditions, which is threatening their health, education and lives. The agency’s Children’s Climate Risk Report 2026, released this week, disclosed painful realities of nearly half of the world’s children, or 1.1 billion, who are suffering from overlapping climate hazards. The eight most frequent climate threats to children are coastal floods, droughts, extreme heat, fires, heatwaves, riverine floods, sand and dust storms and tropical storms. “The lives of children continue to be upended by the impact of heatwaves, wildfires, droughts and floods. “Half of the world’s children are living with at least three overlapping climate threats shaping their daily lives,” said Unicef executive director Catherine Russell in a press statement. In the Sahel region of Africa, considered the worst hit, over four million children face the triple threat of heatwaves, extreme heat and sand and dust storms. Elsewhere, across Asia, children in countries such as Bangladesh, Myanmar and Pakistan are exposed to more climate hazards at once and at a higher intensity than anywhere else in the world, said the report. Families are displaced by storms and floods, record-smashing heat causes widespread heatstroke and dehydration, and droughts lead to food and nutritional insecurity. As a consequence, climate risks exacerbate deadly infectious diseases, such as dengue and malaria, and lead to air-polluting wildfires. “Children are disproportionately affected by the consequences of climate hazards as their developing bodies make it harder for them to cope with the physical and psychological stresses. “They also increasingly experience displacement and instability in the wake of climate shocks, further worsening their vulnerabilities,” the report said. Unicef urged policymakers and businesses to protect children through inclusive climate adaptation programmes and to empower youth through climate education. – Bernama

o ‘Efforts to safeguard national security, uphold democratic and free way of life should not be seen as provocation against China’

TAIPEI: president yesterday expressed hope that the United States would approve a $14 billion (RM57 billion) arms sale “as soon as possible”, reiterating that the democratic island “rejects unification” with China. Taiwan relies heavily on US support to deter any potential Chinese attack, and Washington has put pressure on Taipei to increase its defence spending. But arms sales also complicate ties between Washington and Beijing, which opposes them. In May, US State Secretary Marco Rubio said the $14 billion deal was “under review”. Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te yesterday added that he still has “high hopes”. “Taiwan’s efforts to safeguard its national security, uphold its democratic and free way of life, and reject unification and the rule of the Chinese Communist Party should not be seen as provocation Taiwan’s

North Korea recalls British ambassador SEOUL: North Korea has recalled its ambassador to Britain just a month after he took up the post, downgrading diplomatic relations in response to British sanctions on a children’s camp, North Korea-focused website NK News reported. Pyongyang’s embassy in London said it has withdrawn Ambassador Mun Myong Sin and reduced ties to the level of charge d’affaires until Britain lifts sanctions on the Songdowon International Children’s Camp. In May, London designated the camp as a part of Kremlin-run youth programmes and entities involved in the deportation and indoctrination of Ukrainian children. The embassy called the move by Britain a “heinous, unethical, politically motivated provocation”, and said London was seeking to tarnish North Korea’s image and undermine its ties with Russia, according to NK News. North Korea’s embassy in Britain did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. Pyongyang’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement in May the sanctions on the Songdowon camp were a malicious act that London would pay a price for. It called them groundless and said they damaged the rights and interests of its children, who it said receives the “most precious” treatment. Britain’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office declined to comment to NK News on Mun’s status or the reason for his departure. Britain appointed a new ambassador to North Korea last year, although its embassy in Pyongyang has remained closed since the pandemic. – Reuters Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung said on Wednesday Kenya had done so under “high-level Chinese pressure”. “We see this is a new normal. China is pressuring other countries more and more to behave towards Taiwan in a way that exceeds (what was done in) the past.” Taiwan had been invited to the forum and had paid to set up a booth, said Lin. But Kenya had “distorted” its interpretation of the One China principle, “expanding it limitlessly to block our people from participating”, he said. In recent years, China has increased military activity around Taiwan while also seeking to peel off its few remaining formal diplomatic allies. Kuan said the two delegates were detained “for an extended period”, their passports and phones were seized, and they “faced a situation close to deportation”. – AFP

disagreed over how much to spend on improving defence capabilities. Opposition parties, which hold a majority in the legislature, passed a $25 billion special defence budget last month, slashing by a third the one proposed by Lai’s ruling party. In a separate development, Taiwan has accused Kenya of bowing to “Chinese pressure” by preventing its officials from taking part in an international oceans forum this week. Taiwanese Ocean Affairs Council Minister Kuan Bi-ling said on Tuesday Kenyan authorities detained two of its delegates to the Our Ocean Conference in the city of Mombasa this week.

against China.” The United States formally recognises only China, but is also required under domestic law to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself. US authorities said last month they were reviewing a massive arms sale package to Taiwan to ensure the American military has sufficient munitions for its Iran operations. Lai’s government has vowed to increase overall defence spending to more than 3% of GDP this year. It has proposed US$40 billion for weapons purchases, including US-developed arms as well as Taiwan-made drones. But Taiwanese lawmakers have

CHAMPIONING CHANGE ... Women carrying kitchen utensils and displaying posters, one of which reads ‘Stop the problematic and non-transparent free meal programme’, during a demonstration in Jakarta yesterday demanding the government review the programme, lower fuel prices and open more job opportunities for women. – AFPPIC

Indonesia advocates Asean AI governance structure JAKARTA: Indonesia has pressed for the development of a common Asean AI governance framework, saying unequal access to the technology could deepen disparities across Southeast Asia. is unequal, AI will deepen the gap between those who have it and those who do not, both within our countries and between our countries,” she said, according to Antara news agency. broader efforts to diversify financing sources and expand its international investor base. support the use of local currencies in bilateral transactions and encourage deeper financial cooperation between the countries.” Purbaya said the Beijing visit formed part of a long-term financing strategy that had

The move was discussed at a meeting between Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa and Chinese Finance Minister Lan Fo’an in Beijing on Wednesday, according to Indonesia’s Finance Ministry. “One of the main agendas of the Finance minister’s working visit to Beijing is to prepare for a sovereign Panda Bond issuance. “The government views the instrument as a strategic step to diversify financing sources and broaden the investor base, while also strengthening economic relations between Indonesia and China. “The issuance of a sovereign Panda Bond is also expected to

Meutya said as AI advances, data is becoming increasingly valuable yet vulnerable to cybercrime, underscoring the importance of maintaining control over data and ensuring AI models understand local languages and values. “Rather than slowing AI development, governments should respond strategically by building governance frameworks together and turning potential risks into collective strengths.” Meanwhile, Indonesia is advancing preparations for a sovereign Panda Bond issuance in China as part of

Communication and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid said AI has the potential to accelerate economic growth, improve productivity and strengthen competitiveness, but it could also pose significant risks if left unchecked. Speaking at the Asia Economic Summit, she said a common AI governance framework would enable Asean member states to manage the opportunities and challenges arising from the technology. “This risk is not only for Indonesia, but also for the entire region. If access

been carefully planned by the government to expand competitive financing sources. “Indonesia is not waiting. We are moving ahead by building a strong and sustainable financing foundation so that development can continue amid various global challenges.” Prior to this, Purbaya said Indonesia was targeting a sovereign Panda Bond issuance by this month as part of efforts to diversify funding sources and reduce reliance on Western capital markets. – Bernama