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p 23 More Samsung options for foldables, watches

p 25 Blast offers solid, though predictable action

p 26 Things to know

about testicular cancer

Firms urged to have pre-emptive monitoring systems to detect suspicious activity, instead of merely relying on audit trails to identify perpetrator after breach: Expert Data leak shield needed

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A cybersecurity specialist said employees should only be given access to information necessary to perform a specific task, instead of being granted blanket clearance to the entire database. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

‘Racial approach by Kedah MB should not be practised’ Politicians should instead promote unity and understand diversity of the people, says Fahmi.

PSM compensates low electoral victories with influence Party’s relevance backed by persistent lobbying to boost wages, social justice and equality.

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PM: Implement initiatives for Felda settlers without delay

No one above law, says Ahmad Zahid TAMPIN: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has stressed that no one is above the law if his name is implicated in the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) report on Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH). Ahmad Zahid, who is also Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman, said the RCI fndings must be made known transparently, and if there are elements of wrongdoing, appropriate action can be taken according to due legal process. “The findings from the RCI investigation and study must be made known transparently. If there is any abuse of power, irregularity, criminal breach of trust or other malpractices, there are processes to lodge police reports and conduct investigations in terms of commercial crimes and other legal aspects, which can be carried out subsequently,“ he said yesterday at the Armed Forces Southern Zone Family Day Carnival at Kem Syed Sirajuddin in Gemas, Johor. On whether the release of the report would affect BN’s campaign in the Negeri Sembilan state election, Ahmad Zahid, who is also Umno president, said he did not think so. “The people are very wise in making their assessments. In their minds and hearts, they know which candidate and which coalition they will vote for,” he said. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had earlier expressed confidence that the Cabinet would agree to a proposal to make the RCI report public after it was tabled for Cabinet consideration, Bernama reported. Anwar, who is also Finance minister, explained that the previous delay in releasing the report was because the government did not want confidence in TH to be affected. He said the situation is now different as the institution has been strengthened and received international recognition. ‘Sarawakians want leaders who promote inclusiveness’ SIBU: Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) president Tan Sri Abang Johari Abang Openg said the people of Sarawak are increasingly rejecting racial politics, wanting a government that is capable of bringing development and improving their standard of living. He said politics based on race and religion are no longer appropriate in the new era driven by digital technology, adding that leadership based on knowledge, ability and justice for all people regardless of background is necessary. He was speaking at the PBB Central Zone Special Convention yesterday. Abang Johari said the success of that Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government in driving the state’s development proved that the inclusive policies practised by PBB benefitted all people regardless of race or political affiliation. He said the appointment of Sarawakians from various races to lead Petroleum Sarawak Berhad and various government agencies proves that the state administration prioritises qualifications and merit in appointments. “If a Malay becomes a leader, he must be fair to all. If an Iban becomes a leader, he must also be fair to all. “That is our principle,“ said Abang Johari who is also Sarawak premier and GPS chairman. He said throughout the six years of GPS administration, various infrastructure projects including the construction of bridges, roads, electricity and water supply have been implemented in Sarawak, especially in rural areas. – Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: The seven initiatives announced earlier to help Felda settlers must be implemented without further delay, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said he has requested progress reports on all initiatives, including Felda and new generation housing, to be provided every month so that their implementation is not delayed. “Sometimes I don’t blame the people,” he said, adding that people get tired waiting a long time after an implementation is announced. o Progress reports on all seven plans announced earlier, including Felda and new generation housing, to be provided every month He added that politicians should instead promote unity and understand the diversity of the people in this country. “His statement reflects a fairly widespread attitude within PAS. Previously, we have seen statements on the immigrant issue from the PAS president himself. “This is not good politics which promotes unity, understands differences and strives to unite the people,” he said at the Wayang Pacak programme at Taman Saujana Rompin on Saturday. Fahmi, who is also Communications minister, said the country has been independent for a long time and National Month has also been launched. “Therefore, all parties should focus on efforts to unite the people instead of issuing statements that discriminate or divide the community. “I hope Datuk Seri Sanusi takes a lesson and changes his attitude.” Sanusi was reported to have said that Malaysia is the only Tanah Melayu for the Malays while other races have their own countries of origin such as India and China. Sanusi, who is also the central PAS election director, was reported to have said this during the Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional Premier Talk programme held in conjunction with the Negeri Sembilan state election in Jempol on July 24. Fahmi also touched on the statement made by Mara chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki yesterday, which linked DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke as a candidate for menteri besar if caretaker Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun loses in the state polls. He said according to the Negeri Sembilan Constitution, the position of menteri besar has been exclusively for Malays since it was enacted, and urged Asyraf Wajdi to apologise for the statement. “I hope he apologises to all the people of Negeri Sembilan for the mistake he has made.” Regarding Rembau MP Khairy Jamaluddin’s prediction that PH in Johor would only receive around 10% support from Malay voters, Fahmi

financial assistance to state governments for projects to build more than one house unit on a residential lot owned by Felda settlers, including for the electricity and water installation process. “If there is a problem I will contact the state government, and if there are one or two state governments with financial problems, I will consider it. The Finance Ministry will study where we can help.” Anwar said he had asked the Felda chairman to inform menteris besar, chief ministers and premier regarding the policy paper which would become a policy decision within a month so that all Felda housing areas are allowed to build second homes. On the amendment to the Land (Group Settlement Areas) Act 1960 (Act 530) which is expected to be tabled in Parliament before the end of this year, Anwar said the approval of the Act could resolve pending legal issues. “The initial draft is available and will be presented to the Board of Directors, and once approved I will expedite it for approval by the Cabinet and tabling in Parliament.”

“In the issue of second homes, at least some of them have been completed,” he said, while opening the Santai Perantau Programme in conjunction with Felda’s 70th Anniversary on Saturday, which was also attended by Felda chairman Tan Sri Ahmad Badri Mohd Zahir. On July 7, Anwar had announced seven initiatives in conjunction with Felda Settlers’ Day and the 70th Anniversary celebration, including strengthening digital literacy for settlers involving an allocation of RM15.85 million to 317 eligible Felda schemes, Bernama reported. In addition, RM10 million has been allocated to renovate 370 primary and secondary schools in Felda areas while an additional RM3 million has been set aside for the Felda Maya Squad health team. The government also plans to amend the Land (Group Settlement Areas) Act 1960 (Act 530) to allow the construction of more than one house unit on a residential lot owned by Felda settlers. Anwar, who is also the Finance minister, said the federal government is ready to consider

Racial politics divisive, not good for nation: Fahmi JEMPOL: Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor’s statement that raises racial issues is an approach that should not be practised, said Pakatan Harapan (PH) communications director Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil.

Fahmi said all parties should focus on efforts to unite the people instead of issuing statements that discriminate or divide the community. – BERNAMAPIC

end of the year, Fahmi said the matter was never discussed in the Cabinet, and described it as just a personal opinion. Fahmi said the main focus of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the current Cabinet is to stabilise the country’s economy and recover from the effects of geopolitical conflicts in West Asia rather than engaging in prolonged politics or holding early elections. – Bernama

said the political situation and voter dynamics in Negeri Sembilan are far different from that in Johor. He expressed confidence in Aminuddin’s administration which has proven to be excellent in looking after the welfare of all sections of the people regardless of race. On Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan’s statement suggesting that the 16th General Election may be held by the

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‘PSM remains relevant as voice of grassroots’

N15 - JUASSEH Juasseh is a constituency in Kuala Pilah that embodies Negeri Sembilan’s rural heartland, with rolling rubber and oil palm estates, traditional Malay villages and pockets of padi fields shaping its landscape. The constituency takes its name from Pekan Juasseh, a small town that once served as an important stop along the historic Seremban Kuala Pilah railway, which ceased operations in 1930. Remnants of the old railway station can still be found today, offering a glimpse into the area’s colonial-era transport history. Sungai Muar, one of Peninsular Malaysia’s longest rivers, flows through parts of the constituency and has long supported farming and village life. At a glance Incumbent: Bibi Sharliza Mohd Khalid (BN-Umno) Registered voters: 13,671 Demographic: Malay: 80.4%, Chinese: 11.4%, Indian: 5.1%, Orang Asli: 2.1%, Others: 0.8%, Sabah Bumiputera: 0.2%, Sarawak Bumiputera: 0.1% N16 - SERI MENANTI Seri Menanti is the royal capital of Negeri Sembilan and the ceremonial heart of the state’s centuries-old monarchy. It is home to the Istana Besar Seri Menanti, a magnificent timber palace built between 1902 and 1908 without the use of a single nail, making it one of Malaysia’s most remarkable examples of traditional Malay architecture. The constituency is also regarded as the cradle of Adat Perpatih, the matrilineal customary system unique to Negeri Sembilan, where lineage and inheritance are traditionally passed through the female line. Surrounded by lush hills and traditional villages, Seri Menanti remains a strong symbol of the state’s royal heritage and cultural identity. At a glance Incumbent: Muhammad Sufian Maradzi (BN-Umno) Registered voters: 10,105 Demographic: Malay 91.9%, Orang Asli 4.8%, Chinese 2.1%, Others 0.6%, Indian 0.3%, Sabah Bumiputera 0.1%, Sarawak Bumiputera 0.1% N17 - SENALING Senaling is a rural constituency just outside Kuala Pilah town, but it is best known for Bukit Senaling, one of Negeri Sembilan’s favourite hiking spots. The hill attracts outdoor enthusiasts with its panoramic sunrise views and the spectacular lautan awan (sea of clouds) that occasionally blankets the surrounding valleys in the early morning. Despite its growing reputation as a recreational destination, Senaling remains rooted in agriculture and traditional village life, with rubber and oil palm plantations forming much of its landscape. The constituency has been represented by BN’s Datuk Ismail Lasim since 2023. At a glance Incumbent: Datuk Ismail Lasim (BN-Umno) Registered voters: 9,903 Demographic: Malay 81.3%, Chinese 14.5%, Indian 3.5%, Others 0.6%, Orang Asli 0.1%, Sarawak Bumiputera 0.1% – by Kirtinee Ramesh

o Party stays influential by keeping rights of workers, wages and inequality firmly on national agenda, say experts

“PSM’s role nationally is different from winning seats. It raises attention and pushes for policies on labour, health and cost-of-living concerns. Its influence should not be equated with seat victories.” She added that PSM’s continued participation reflects its understanding of the realities of

national discourse,“ she added. University of Nottingham honorary research associate Bridget Welsh said PSM’s electoral struggles are driven by a combination of ideological perceptions, ethnic-based politics and structural limitations within Malaysia’s electoral system. She said many voters continue to conflate

DID YOU KNOW

Malaysia’s political landscape, in which smaller parties face formidable barriers when contesting independently. Founded in 1998, PSM received official registration only in 2008 after a decade-long legal battle with the government, becoming the first political party in Malaysia to take the Home minister to court over its registration. Before securing official recognition,

socialism with communism, creating a perception hurdle despite PSM’s emphasis on equality, labour rights and social justice. “The struggle is a product of multiple factors – ideology, where the distinction between socialism and communism is not clear among the electorate, with strong opposition to the latter.”

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: As the Negeri Sembilan state election enters full campaign mode, grassroots oriented candidates are hoping to prove that grassroots issues and local representation can resonate with voters despite the dominance of larger political parties. PSM Rahang candidate Tinagaran Subramaniam, better known as“Cikgu Tina”, is banking on a people first campaign centred on workers’ rights, social welfare and everyday concerns to persuade voters to look beyond mainstream political coalitions. Tinagaran said his manifesto is shaped by feedback from residents and prioritises tackling flash floods, improving welfare for senior citizens and persons with disabilities, strengthening workers’ rights, enhancing local government accountability and improving public transport. “I want to be the voice of workers, the elderly, youths and ordinary residents who often feel neglected. “Rahang’s development should benefit everyone, not just a select few,“ he told theSun . The 48-year-old tuition teacher holds an MBA PETALING JAYA: Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) may have struggled to convert support into electoral victories but its influence on national policy debates remains far greater than its representation in Parliament, with analysts saying the party continues to shape discussions on workers’ rights, social justice and inequality. International Islamic University Malaysia political analyst Dr Syaza Shukri said PSM’s relevance has never depended solely on winning elections, noting that the party would have faded long ago if electoral success had been its only measure of influence. She described PSM as both a political party and a social movement that remains deeply rooted at the grassroots, particularly in championing the concerns of workers and vulnerable communities. Syaza said the party’s greatest contribution lies in keeping issues such as higher wages, workers’ rights and stronger social safety nets firmly on the national agenda. “Although the government may not adopt PSM’s proposals entirely, by consistently campaigning for issues like higher wages and better safety nets, it indirectly influences government policies,“ she said. She added that sustained advocacy by PSM and like-minded groups ensures these issues remain part of policy discussions while increasing pressure on governments to respond. However, Syaza said Malaysia’s first-past-the post electoral system remains a major obstacle for smaller parties such as PSM, making it difficult to translate public support into parliamentary seats. “I don’t think it is about winning seats. PSM knows its chances of winning seats in Malaysia’s first-past-the-post system are very slim.” Instead, she said elections serve as an avenue for the party to promote its ideas, strengthen its grassroots presence and attract new supporters. “Eventually, they may still hope to win seats, but the bigger agenda is to remain relevant and part of Ű BY T.C. KHOR newsdesk@thesundaily.com

the party contested elections under the banners of other political parties before fielding candidates under its own logo for the first time in the 2018 General Election. Rooted in socialist principles, PSM has built its reputation through grassroots campaigns advocating workers’ rights, affordable housing, public healthcare, migrant worker protection and social welfare. Its former Sungai Siput MP Dr Michael Jeyakumar Devaraj became one of the party’s most recognisable figures for consistently raising healthcare, labour and social policy issues in Parliament.

Welsh also said Malaysia’s identity-based political landscape presents another challenge, with political narratives often centred on ethnicity rather than class-based issues. “The prominence of ethnic politics often identifies PSM with the ethnicity of its leaders and constrains both mobilisation and narratives that follow different paths.” Although issues such as equality, fairness and the rising cost of living continue to resonate with many Malaysians, Welsh said entrenched ethnic politics and elite-driven narratives have limited PSM’s ability to broaden its appeal.

PILAH PITCH ... Senior Political Adviser to the Prime Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz with Pakatan Harapan candidate for the Pilah seat Datuk Noorzunita Begum Mohd Ibrahim during a campaign walkabout in Kuala Pilah yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

Candidates pledge to champion everyday concerns

given the mandate by the voters to win the Jeram Padang state seat, I will do my very best to serve everyone, not only the Orang Asli community,“ she said. Dayana, who was previously a member of PKR and Umno before joining Parti Asli, said the constituency’s diverse electorate comprises Malays, Chinese, Indians and Orang Asli, many of whom earn their living as salaried employees, business owners, farmers, rubber tappers and traders of fruits and other agricultural produce. She said one of the most pressing concerns raised by the Orang Asli community was the lack of access to clean water, forcing some residents to depend on polluted river water and rainwater for their daily needs. “Complaints have been made by community leaders, but little action has been been taken.“ A housewife, Dayana said she keeps herself informed on issues affecting the constituency and regularly takes part in community programmes and activities. “In any election, winning or losing is part and parcel of the democratic process. I am committed to working hard to earn the support of all communities in the constituency.”

and serves as Negeri Sembilan PSM secretary and an industrial relations officer. A long-time labour activist, he has represented workers in disputes involving government contract employees and plantation workers. Tinagaran also pledged to steer clear of racial politics throughout the campaign. “I will not play up racial issues to gain votes or support. Our struggle is based on the needs of ordinary people, regardless of race or skin colour.” If elected, he said he would also push for an Equality Act to combat discrimination and ensure equal treatment for all Malaysians. Tinagaran is PSM’s sole candidate contesting in Negeri Sembilan. Meanwhile, Negeri Sembilan’s only Orang Asli candidate, Dayana Dal, who is contesting the Jeram Padang seat under Parti Orang Asli Malaysia (Parti Asli), said she hopes to be a representative for all communities, not just the Orang Asli. The 40-year-old Semelai, who was born and raised in Kampung Orang Asli Jeram Padang, said she accepted the party’s decision to field her after receiving encouragement from her family and relatives. “As a local Orang Asli from Jeram Padang, if I am

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‘Address data leak risks before information is breached’ o Companies should not rely on methods that are only able to identify culprits after incidents occur: Expert

Youth must be patriotic, digitally literate: Minister

JEMPOL: Youth, particularly secondary school students, must be continuously nurtured with a strong sense of patriotism and equipped with a sound understanding of digital literacy and ethical social media use to face the challenges of the modern era, said Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil. He added that emphasis on nationhood and history is crucial to ensure every citizen understands their responsibility in helping to advance the country. “As a son or daughter of this nation, as a citizen, we also have responsibilities and must understand our history, as well as our roles and duties in becoming Malaysians who can help move the country forward. “I also took the opportunity to listen to questions and views from the Form Six students, and I found that most of them are highly motivated and understand current challenges, including fake news, mental health issues, social media, and many also asked about the future amid the rapid growth of technology, including artificial intelligence (AI).“ He was speaking to reporters after meeting 60 Form Six students following a dialogue session held in conjunction with the Pentarama X Kelab Malaysiaku programme and the Safe Internet Campaign at the Jempol District Information Office yesterday. The programme, organised by the Information Department, brought together students from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Batu Kikir, SMK Seri Perpatih and SMK Datuk Mansor in the Jempol parliamentary constituency. Also present were the department’s director-general Erwin Khairul Ahmad and Negeri Sembilan Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission director Faisal Hamdi Mohammed Ghouth. Fahmi said the programme, which adopts an “edutainment” approach, not only enhances the National Month celebrations but also serves as an interactive two-way platform for the ministry’s leadership to hear the views and aspirations of the younger generation. Meanwhile, Erwin Khairul said the programme has now been expanded to promote the messages of independence, unity and preparations for the National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations at the school level. He added that to date, there are 850 Kelab Malaysiaku nationwide. Pentarama is a performance unit under the Information Department that communicates government policies, official information and patriotic values through singing, dancing and drama. – Bernama She also said endpoint forensic examinations should also be carried out on the employee’s work computer or device to determine whether personal data had been stored locally, shared through messaging applications or transferred to external storage devices. However, Syifak said the company’s liability would depend partly on whether adequate technical and administrative safeguards had been implemented and consistently enforced. “If all the appropriate controls were in place and the incident still occurred, then it may ultimately involve an employee who was dishonest and failed to understand the duty of confidentiality.“ Syifak said Section 9 of the Personal Data Protection Act 2010 requires data controllers to implement sufficient technical and organisational measures to protect personal information from unauthorised access, disclosure and misuse. – By Faiz Ruzman

He added that the attention generated by Khairul’s case should not overshadow similar incidents involving ordinary customers. On July 20, a Threads user publicly shared information allegedly linked to Khairul’s Maxis account. The influencer, known for his cooking content, has amassed a large following across Instagram, TikTok and other social media platforms. The information shared allegedly included details of his outstanding telephone bill and other customer information. The same user also published information relating to Khairul Aming’s MySara status, although it has yet to be established whether both sets of information originated from the same source. Maxis later confirmed that an unauthorised action had taken place, saying the individual linked to the incident had been identified and describing it as an “isolated” case. However, the company has not disclosed whether the individual was an employee, contractor, dealer, agent or affiliated with a third-party service provider. Khairul subsequently announced on July 22 that his lawyers had issued a Letter of Demand to Maxis and that reports had been lodged with the police, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission and the Personal Data Protection Department.

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Malaysia Centre for Cybersecurity and Data Intelligence senior researcher Assoc Prof Dr Zubaile Abdullah said it was still too early to conclude that all the information shared had originated directly from the telecommunications company’s systems. He said investigators must establish the provenance, or original source, of each piece of data and determine whether it was obtained directly, supplied by someone with legitimate access or compiled from other exposed sources. “A match with customer records alone does not prove the source of the entire dataset.“ Zubaile also cautioned against assuming that the individual who published the information was the one who originally obtained it. “The exposure of a celebrity’s data should not be the reason we suddenly recognise the seriousness of the problem. “If similar incidents have affected ordinary individuals, they deserve the same level of attention and protection. “The real issue is not who the victim is, but whether personal data is being adequately protected.”

PETALING JAYA: The alleged unauthorised disclosure of the personal account details belonging to social media influencer Khairul Amin Kamarulzaman (Khairul Aming) has raised fresh concerns over whether companies are equipped to detect and stop suspicious access to customer records before sensitive information is exposed to the public. Universiti Malaya Centre of Research for Cybersecurity and Network professor Dr Ainuddin Wahid Abdul Wahab said organisations should not rely solely on audit trails that identify who accessed customer records after an incident but also have monitoring systems capable of detecting and responding to suspicious activity before confidential information is disclosed. He added that the issue was not simply whether someone possessed valid system credentials, but also whether there was a legitimate operational reason to access a customer’s records. “It is like a bank employee who only needs to verify a customer’s name but is nevertheless given access to the person’s account balance and entire transaction history,” he told theSun . “Automatic alerts should be triggered whenever certain accounts are accessed, especially those belonging to prominent individuals or celebrities. “Regular audits should also be carried out to detect unusual access before it escalates into a public issue.” He also said companies should adopt the principles of least privilege and segregation of duties, ensuring employees could only access information necessary to perform their roles, while automated alerts should flag access to sensitive or high-profile customer accounts for immediate review. “Security teams should be able to verify immediately whether an account had been accessed for a genuine customer service matter or an authorised work assignment. “This is particularly important for accounts belonging to VIPs or celebrities, while regular audits should be conducted to identify unusual access before it becomes a public issue.” Meanwhile, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn PETALING JAYA: The alleged misuse of customer data in the telco leak highlights a growing cybersecurity risk, in which employees with legitimate system access may exploit confidential information for social media attention, a cybersecurity expert warned. Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Computer Network and Cyber Security Department head Dr Syifak Izhar Hisham said the rise of “clout culture” had led some individuals to prioritise online popularity over legal and ethical responsibilities, turning protected customer information into sensationalised content. “Sometimes, the incidents happen because of the trend of clout culture. Influencers or social media users seek likes and followers by revealing information that attracts public attention. “It becomes content over everything. They forget that disclosing this type of information can constitute a crime,“ she told theSun .

SCENIC SPOT ... Tourists take photographs at the River of Life lookout point near Dataran Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

‘Clout culture causing prioritisation of online fame over ethics’

such as MyKad numbers were not displayed in plain text to employees who did not require full access. Syifak said access to customer records should only be granted in response to legitimate customer requests, while role-based access controls should restrict sensitive information to a limited number of authorised personnel. “If an employee could easily access and capture private MyKad information without adequate logging, role-based restrictions or data masking, it would indicate that the necessary safeguards were not properly in place.” She added that to determine whether other customers had been affected, the telco should conduct a comprehensive audit trail of every search made using the employee’s user ID from the date access was first granted. “This would show whose accounts were previously searched or viewed by the individual throughout the period of employment.“

Syifak said the pattern observed in the Khairul Aming case appeared more consistent with an insider threat involving the misuse of authorised system access than a cyber attack by an external actor. She added that the information disclosed was highly specific to a single individual, rather than a large collection of records typically targeted by cybercriminals for resale or broader exploitation. The fact that the telco was able to identify the person involved also suggests that the activity came through a traceable internal account or system, she said. “An outsider would normally target an entire database because a larger volume of information has greater value for sale.“ She also said organisations handling sensitive customer records should implement data masking to conceal confidential information from unauthorised personnel, ensuring details

MONDAY | JULY 27, 2026 5 Top cop Ayob Khan retires from service KUALA LUMPUR: Outgoing Deputy IGP Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay yesterday urged members of the force to safeguard its integrity and never sacrifice its honour for personal gain. In his farewell address, he reminded personnel not to tarnish the reputation of an institution built on the blood, sweat and sacrifice of fallen comrades. “Do not ruin this force for personal interest, do not sell your dignity for money, do not use power to oppress the weak and never forget that behind every police badge we wear, there are people expecting justice.” He was speaking during the handing-over of duties ceremony with Bukit Aman Special Branch director Datuk Seri Ibrahim Darus, who assumed the role of acting deputy IGP effective yesterday, at the Police Training Centre. IGP Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail witnessed the ceremony. Ayob Khan, who officially retired yesterday after nearly 35 years of service, also urged members of the force to uphold integrity at all times, especially when no one is watching. “It is not about who we are when praised, but who we are when no one is looking. Remember, humans may not see, superiors may not know, but Allah always sees.“ Born in Kota Setar, Kedah, Ayob Khan described his years in the force as more than just a career, saying it had taught him the meaning of courage, loyalty and sacrifice. “I know what it feels like to leave family behind for the call of duty, to work under pressure, and I know what it feels like when sincere service goes unappreciated. However, never stop doing what is right because Allah never lets sincere deeds go to waste.“ Throughout his career, Ayob Khan held several key positions, including in the Special Branch Counter-Terrorism Division, as Johor police chief, Narcotics Crime Investigation Department director and as Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director. – Bernama Immigration Dept denies detainee deaths KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Immigration Department has denied a claim alleging that many Filipino detainees had died due to overcrowding at the state’s immigration detention depots. State Immigration director Datuk Sh Sitti Saleha Habib Yussof said the allegation was false, baseless and misleading. She also said a photograph circulating on social media was not taken at any Immigration detention depot in Sabah. “All Filipino detainees housed at the Immigration detention depots in Sabah are in good condition while awaiting repatriation to their home country.” She added that throughout their detention, all detainees are provided with appropriate care and protection in accordance with the law and the prevailing standard operating procedures. She also said detainees are provided with basic necessities, including meals served according to a fixed schedule and in line with menus and nutritional standards approved by the Health Ministry to meet the needs of both adults and children. She said detainees are also given access to medical treatment whenever necessary, as well as other essential needs. Sitti Saleha said the repatriation of Filipino detainees via sea from Sandakan to Zamboanga, which had previously been the main repatriation route, has been suspended by the Philippine authorities since February, affecting the smooth implementation of the repatriation process. “To ensure that repatriation continues, Sabah Immigration Department is using alternative routes, namely flights from Kota Kinabalu to Manila and sea transport from Lahad Datu to Bongao. “However, repatriation through alternative routes is subject to the detainees’ families agreeing to bear the travel costs.” – Bernama

Govt to focus on welfare for Armed Forces members

TAMPIN: The government is prioritising housing, education and welfare for Armed Forces personnel to enable them to focus fully on defending the nation, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said yesterday. He added that ensuring the wellbeing of service personnel and their families remained a key government responsibility, with initiatives that include the construction of 1,300 military family housing units at Kem Syed Sirajuddin in o Move to ensure military personnel able to serve with peace of mind: DPM

peace of mind.” He said the sacrifices of military personnel deserve continued recognition as they have not only defended the nation’s sovereignty during times of conflict but also safeguarded Malaysia’s peace and security. Last Friday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the welfare of serving and retired military personnel remains a government priority, in recognition of their invaluable contribution to the country’s stability and security. Anwar said RM844 million has been allocated under this year’s housing services budget to upgrade and develop military family housing nationwide. He added that the allocation covered new housing projects and infrastructure upgrades at military camps.

Gemas and improved educational support for their children, Bernama reported. “Concern for housing, education and the welfare of all Armed Forces personnel must be prioritised by the government,” he said when officiating at the Southern Zone Armed Forces Family Day Carnival, which was also attended by Army Chief Jen Tan Sri Azhan Md Othman at Kem Syed Sirajuddin. Ahmad Zahid said the government was equally committed to improving educational facilities for military families, including providing safer and more suitable transport for children travelling to school. “When their children receive a good education and their families’ welfare is protected, members of the Armed Forces will be able to carry out their responsibility of defending the nation with

Ahmad Zahid watching a coconut-bowling game session at the carnival. – BERNAMAPIC

Disaster aid available up to four times yearly: Nadma JERTIH: Malaysians affected by disasters are eligible to receive the Bantuan Wang Ihsan aid up to four times a year, subject to the claim conditions set by the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma).

access the aid more easily through Nadma’s digital registration and community verification system, which has helped expedite the verification process and the disbursement. “Victims are now registered through the myIBJKM system, in which they only need to register or update their information by scanning the QR code provided at every temporary relief centre.” Jefny said Nadma is encouraging more strategic collaborations with NGOs as partners to strengthen community disaster preparedness through the implementation of programme courses. He also said the programme emphasises active community participation in identifying disaster risks, planning mitigation measures, enhancing preparedness and carrying out early actions before, during and after disasters. – Bernama

“If they are affected by another disaster after the three-month period, they are eligible to submit a new application,“ he told reporters after closing the Community-Based Disaster Risk Management programme organised by Yayasan Ikhlas in Kampung Raja on Saturday. Jefny said 108,000 heads of household nationwide received aid amounting to RM108 million during the 2025/2026 Northeast Monsoon season. He added that the figure was lower than the previous monsoon season, when 287,000 heads of household received aid involving an allocation of RM287 million. “The reduction in the number of recipients and the amount disbursed is because our country did not experience as many major disasters this season compared with the previous one.” He also said disaster victims could now

Its Community and Social Development Section director Jefny Muhammad said the assistance is provided to ease the burden of households affected by disasters such as floods, landslides, fires, tidal waves and other calamities. He added that each eligible head of household is entitled to RM1,000 for each claim, allowing recipients to receive up to RM4,000 a year if they are affected by disasters on four separate occasions. “However, claims are only allowed once every three months. If they are affected by disasters twice within a three-month period, only one claim can be made.

MONDAY | JULY 27, 2026

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JOHOR BAHRU: The first thing that disappeared after the crash was the light. Masitah Mohd Afandy could still hear the commotion around her. She could feel the pain in her injured leg. But when she opened her eyes, there was only darkness. That moment on March 21, 2023, changed her life forever. The road crash not only claimed the life of one of her employees but also robbed the Johor entrepreneur of her sight. Yet, instead of allowing the tragedy to define her, Masitah rebuilt her life with remarkable resilience, transforming herself from a successful businesswoman into an inspiration for many navigating life’s toughest trials. Today, the 35-year-old CEO of NM Aircond Sdn Bhd continues to lead the company she co-founded with her husband Nik Nazri Abidin while also becoming a sought-after motivational speaker whose story resonates with audiences across the country. “Before the accident, I was obsessed with work. Out of 365 days in a year, I probably spent 360

Blindness no stumbling block for gritty entrepreneur

o Car crash survivor rebuilds life with remarkable resilience, transforming herself from successful businesswoman into inspiration for many navigating trials of life

Tahai is made from small fish sourced from coastal areas, which are dried by smoking under sunlight and charcoal before being processed into sambal using traditional methods. Although machines can speed up the preparation process, Mayziana continues to use a stone mortar to pound the sambal ingredients to preserve its authentic texture and smoky aroma. She said pandan kelupis is best enjoyed with sambal tahai , a combination that has long been favoured by communities in Limbang and Lawas. “The softness and richness of injuries. I was sitting in the front passenger seat and suffered severe injuries, particularly to the right side of my body, including my face.” The employee seated behind her became trapped in the wreckage and died in hospital the following day from severe injuries. “I was conscious the whole time and didn’t feel any pain except in my leg although my skull was fractured. My right eye had collapsed into its socket,” she recounted. Masitah underwent multiple surgeries on her head and leg. Surgeons inserted nine metal plates into her face and a metal implant into her right thigh. Even before doctors confirmed the extent of her injuries, she sensed something was terribly wrong. “I could hear everything but I couldn’t see anything. Later, my husband told me the doctors had informed him that my eyesight was deteriorating and that I might become blind. “My response was: ‘Oh, okay’”, she said, adding that her calm reaction surprised her family members and friends, some of whom thought it was abnormal. Rather than dwelling on the loss, Masitah accepted it as God’s will. During the 24 days she spent in hospital, she found herself comforting the very people who had come to console her. She said the real challenge only began after she returned home. Confined to a wheelchair because of her fractured thigh bone, she had to learn how to live in a world without sight. “I had to adapt to my new world. At first, I constantly felt dizzy, almost like seasickness. It felt as though I was floating and I couldn’t tell where the floor was. When someone pushed my wheelchair, I couldn’t even tell whether they were pushing or pulling it.” She relied on a wheelchair for eight months, Bernama reported. Gradually, about four months

after the incident, she began understanding her surroundings and rebuilding her independence. Everyday tasks that most people take for granted, such as bathing, dressing and even applying makeup, had to be learned all over again. “It wasn’t easy but it wasn’t impossible. Everything takes time and patience.” Determined to encourage others while motivating herself, Masitah began documenting her recovery journey on social media. The posts soon attracted widespread attention and established her as an inspirational figure. Yet, she describes another moment as the true turning point in her recovery. About eight months after the crash, in November 2023, she performed the umrah. “I told my husband that I wanted to touch the Kaabah because I could no longer see it. He was doubtful because I was still using a wheelchair and could barely walk. “But by Allah ’s grace, I was able to walk there and embrace the Kaabah ,“ she said. For Masitah, that experience marked the beginning of a new chapter. Today, she has resumed leading a fulfilling life while continuing to helm NM Aircond Sdn Bhd. Together with her husband, she is now planning to expand the business nationwide through a franchise model. Looking back, she believes the incident fundamentally changed her understanding of success and happiness. “When we see life’s trials as gifts from Allah, we become calmer and are able to appreciate, one by one, the wisdom behind every test Allah gives us. “We need to keep an open heart, accept it with sincerity and always have faith in Him. “If we see every trial as a burden, then it will always weigh heavily on our hearts,” she added.

The car, driven by one of her employees, veered off course before crashing into the rear of a lorry in the left lane of the North South Expressway near Ayer Keroh, Malacca. “The driver and the passenger seated behind escaped without

days in the office,” said the Johor born entrepreneur. That relentless routine came to an abrupt end when she and three employees were travelling home from Sabak Bernam in Selangor after attending an event at a community college.

Masitah and her husband Nik Nazri (centre) with some of their workers. – BERNAMAPIC

Northern Sarawak delicacy becomes better with addition of pandan KUCHING: For Mayziana Matzin, 40, kelupis is more than just a traditional glutinous rice delicacy. It is a heritage she hopes to preserve and introduce to a wider audience with a modern addition while retaining its original identity. been a staple during festive seasons, gatherings and when welcoming guests. Mayziana, a Kedayan from the heritage value behind every dish.” She said her pandan kelupis is prepared using Siamese glutinous rice and freshly squeezed coconut milk, resulting in a softer texture, richer flavour and brighter colour compared with regular kelupis . traditional delicacy associated with northern Sarawak. kelupis , combined with the aroma of pandan leaves, complements the smoky, salty and slightly spicy taste of sambal tahai , creating a unique blend of flavours.

Kampung Sibukang in Limbang, said the use of pandan leaves as a wrapper gives the delicacy a more fragrant aroma, while preserving its authentic taste. “Many people are only familiar with regular kelupis whereas pandan kelupis has its own uniqueness. The pandan leaves give it a more fragrant aroma, but the original taste of kelupis remains the same. “I want more people to know about the traditional food of northern Sarawak not only by enjoying it but also by understanding

“For the people of Limbang and Lawas, these two foods are not merely dishes but a perfect pairing often served at family events as a symbol of heritage that must be preserved.” Mayziana believes that traditional recipes, including pandan kelupis and tahai, have the potential to become gastronomic icons of northern Sarawak and attract the interest of visitors from within and outside the country. – Bernama

“Despite the variety of modern food available today, traditional dishes like kelupis still have a special place among members of the community. “The response towards pandan kelupis has been very encouraging, especially from customers outside Limbang, including Kuching.” Apart from kelupis , Buffet.Lab Food Services, which she started in 2018, also offers tahai , another

The owner of Buffet.Lab Food Services has introduced pandan kelupis as one of the signature items in her business, adding a new dimension to the traditional food synonymous with the Brunei Malay and Kedayan communities in northern Sarawak, particularly in Limbang and Lawas. Traditionally made from glutinous rice and coconut milk before being wrapped in leaves, kelupis has long

MONDAY | JULY 27, 2026

/thesuntelegram FOLLOW / Malaysian Paper

ON TELEGRAM m RAM

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Strong winds and rain lash China

India names new education minister

BEIJING: Typhoon Noul made landfall in China early yesterday lashing a stretch of the southern coast with strong winds and rain in the fiercest storm to hit the country this year. Severe weather forecasts for Noul had spurred authorities to evacuate more than 340,000 people and suspend work and rail services, with major flight disruptions continuing. The centre of the typhoon crossed over land at around 3.50am (3.50am in Malaysia) near the town of Pinghai, Guangdong Province, about 80km northeast of Hong Kong, state broadcaster CCTV reported. Maximum sustained winds near the eye of the storm at the time of landfall were 162 kph, the report said. That made Noul the strongest typhoon to strike the country so far this year. Battering winds and heavy rains were seen in footage published by CCTV yesterday, with roads strewn with debris and some small structures including a basketball net toppled by the gusts. At least 350 passenger flights departing and arriving from Hong Kong had been cancelled yesterday, the airport’s website showed. “ Noul is moving into Guangdong and weakening but gales are still affecting many places over Hong Kong,” the Hong Kong Observatory said. – AFP 23 lost at sea after Vietnamese ship sinks BEIJING: Rescuers are searching for 23 missing people after a Vietnamese ship carrying 62 crew members sank in the South China Sea, Chinese state media reported yesterday. The cargo vessel Khoi Nguyen 18 encountered trouble near Yongshu Reef, also known as Fiery Cross Reef, state broadcaster CCTV reported, adding that 39 people had been rescued. A Chinese rescue vessel first spotted what was believed to be a distress signal from the endangered ship shortly before 6.30pm on Saturday (6.30pm in Malaysia), Xinhua news agency reported. Six Chinese vessels and a rescue helicopter as well as one Vietnamese vessel were conducting search and rescue operations in the area. Hainan authorities said the Khoi Nguyen 18 is a Vietnamese-registered ship measuring just under 70m in length. Vietnam’s Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to AFP’s request for comment. – AFP JAKARTA: Eleven foreign tourists and an Indonesian crew member who were reported missing after their speedboat lost contact while travelling to Gorontalo Province in eastern Indonesia have been found safe, while authorities continue searching for the vessel’s captain. Palu Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) Head of Operations Rusmadi said the survivors were evacuated to a resort in Tojo Una-Una Regency, Central Sulawesi, while efforts to locate the captain, identified as Ferdiansyah, were ongoing. “The victims are in Tojo Una-Una, but whether they will be evacuated to Ampana or Wakai is being coordinated with the resort management,” he said. The speedboat departed from Sanctum Una Una Dive Resort in Tojo Una-Una on Friday for Marisa Port in neighbouring Gorontalo Province with 11 foreign tourists and two Indonesian crew members on board before losing contact. Rusmadi said Basarnas Palu had deployed a rescue vessel, KN SAR Bhisma , to assist the search for the missing captain. – Bernama Missing tourists, sailor found safe

o Praise for reforms under predecessor

Piyush Goyal, also praised Pradhan’s performance and record as education minister in social media posts. Pradhan, who served as petroleum minister before becoming education minister in July 2021, resigned after 36 days of protests over examination leaks by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), a youth-centric movement in central Delhi. There have been several exam leaks in India in recent years, but the latest protests were triggered by the fiasco surrounding the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test, a graduate medical entrance examination, held in May that affected more than two million students. Pradhan’s resignation was one of the main demands of the protesters, who also called for reforms to India’s education system. The CJP described Pradhan’s exit as a victory and called off its protest on Saturday, saying the government had accepted all its demands. – Bernama

He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from K.S. Arts College in the southern state of Karnataka. According to his website, Joshi began his “political journey through grassroots activism and organisational work with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)”. The RSS is the BJP’s ideological organisation headquartered in Nagpur city in the western state of Maharashtra. In a post on X, Joshi praised Pradhan for implementing the BJP government’s revamp of India’s education structure through the new “National Education Policy (NEP) 2020”. “His tenure witnessed the successful implementation of NEP 2020 along with over 100 big and small reforms in the field of education,” the new education minister said. Many BJP leaders, including Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Commerce Minister

HYDERABAD: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has brought in trusted senior party leader Pralhad Joshi as his new education minister, succeeding Dharmendra Pradhan, who resigned on Saturday after weeks of youth protests over examination paper leaks. President Droupadi Murmu has accepted Pradhan’s resignation from the Council of Ministers with immediate effect and directed that Joshi be assigned charge of the Education Ministry, in addition to his existing portfolio, as advised by the prime minister, the President’s Secretariat said in a statement on Saturday. Joshi, 64, born in Karnataka, has been serving as consumer affairs, food and public distribution minister.

University probes death of girl in gene-editing trial BEIJING: A university in Shanghai is looking into reports that a gene-editing trial caused the death of a six-year-old girl, which was not disclosed in the published research, the school said yesterday. would be taken in accordance with the investigation’s findings. SACRIFICES REMEMBERED ... Koreans visiting the Fatherland Liberation War Martyrs Cemetery to mark the 73rd anniversary of the end of the Korean War in Pyongyang yesterday. – AFPPIC

researcher, went on to publish a paper on related animal studies in the prestigious journal Nature that made no mention of Mei. In response, the Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine said in a statement that it “attaches great importance to the matter and has set up a special working group to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incident”. “The School of Medicine has always attached great importance to scientific research integrity and research norms, and firmly opposes conducting medical scientific research in violation of scientific research ethics,” it said. The statement said that “serious action”

Mei’s parents, who paid more than US$800,000 (RM3.3 million) to fund the experiment, were not adequately informed about the risks, the report by Science and Retraction Watch said. Qiu was aiming to offer the world’s first gene-editing therapy directed at the brain, rewriting the mutated gene in her neurons so she could make a vital protein, it said. The previously undisclosed death is a fresh blow to China’s ambitions to rival the United States as a biotech power following the 2018 scandal around He Jiankui, a biophysicist who secretly produced gene-edited babies. – AFP

The girl, given the pseudonym “Mei”, died last year around a week after receiving a spinal infusion of trillions of viruses designed to penetrate the brain for treatment, according to a joint investigation by Science and Retraction Watch. The experimental gene therapy was meant to fix a rare genetic condition that caused a delay in cognitive development, the report said on Thursday. Neuroscientist Zilong Qiu, the lead