03/09/2026

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THURSDAY SEP 3, 2026

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THURSDAY | SEPT 3, 2026

Flexing together Social fitness takes over – P22

WEEKLY FOCUS MONDAY Technology and social media

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Windfall from Sports Toto 6/58 game attributed to sixth grandchild, from whom final lucky number was derived. Sixty-six-year-old chauffeur wins RM23 million jackpot

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TUESDAY Family and parenting

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THURSDAY Home and living

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SCAN ME No. 9263 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

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p 23 Keeping Kelantan’s

p 25 Jason Statham fails to

p 26 Laughably ‘bad’ animated film turns viral hit in China

Salor zapin tradition alive

Mutiny against stereotype

Repatriation to proceed Report on h page 2 First batch comprising 1,476 individuals from 5,000 on list to be sent back on Sept 29 as agreed with Myanmar authorities, with assurance given that all returnees will be safe.

Some 10,000 Myanmar refugees are currently being held at Immigration detention depots nationwide. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

Ensure RM1.2b for traders easily accessible, govt urged Make process simple, particularly for rural operators and those with limited digital literacy: Fomca

MACC records statements from 12 in ongoing Felda probe Investigation involves alleged wrongdoing linked to purchase of several assets at above assessed market value.

Report on — page 3

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THURSDAY | SEPT 3, 2026

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Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Myanmar detainees repatriation to proceed

‘No compromise on offensive content’ PUTRAJAYA: The government will not compromise on religious or racial sensitivities in drama and film content, including material streamed on over-the-top (OTT) platforms, said Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil. He added that although OTT content was not currently subject to the same regulatory framework as conventional broadcasting, action could be taken if investigations found breaches of existing guidelines, regulations or provisions. “The government will also not hesitate to take appropriate action if assessment and investigations find that there has been a violation of any guidelines, regulations or provisions currently in force,” he said at a press conference yesterday. Fahmi had contacted the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) CEO over the controversy surrounding Madu atau Racun , which is streamed on iQIYI. He said the Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia and Finas had been instructed to meet the production team and iQIYI representatives to seek an explanation about the content of the drama. Representatives from the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) would also be attending the meeting. Fahmi said Finas had regulatory jurisdiction over filmmaking and film exhibition, including cinemas, while the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission regulated television broadcasting and communications. “At present, OTT streaming platforms are not yet fully subject to the licensing framework imposed on conventional broadcasting,” he said. The controversy intensified after several groups called for Madu atau Racun to be withdrawn over content they deemed offensive, including alleged depictions of same-sex relationships. Jakim director-general Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee said the department had also lodged a report with MCMC, claiming the drama contained elements that contradicted religious and cultural values as well as human nature. “Jakim fully supports the firmness of Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Zulkifli Hasan, who rejected the screening of Madu atau Racun as it has caused public concern. “This firmness is warranted as the drama broadcast on the iQIYI platform contains elements that contradict religious and cultural values as well as human nature,” he said in a statement. – by Harith Kamal

Malaysians caught in floods in Nepal and Tibet have been located and taken to Kathmandu for repatriation, while 55 others remain unaccounted for. Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan has provided the latest figures following the disaster that struck the region last week. “The Foreign Minister has informed us that there are 55 Malaysian citizens who are still unaccounted for, while 77 Malaysians have been located in Tibet and Nepal. “They have been taken to Kathmandu for the repatriation process... to be returned and brought back to Malaysia.” Fahmi added that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had approved a US$1 million (RM4 million) contribution to support humanitarian relief efforts in Nepal. The floods, triggered by a glacial collapse in the Himalayas on Aug 26, devastated parts of Nepal and neighbouring Tibet, destroying roads, bridges and other infrastructure and leaving thousands of people missing. More than 1,100 people have been killed in Nepal, while nearly 4,000 remain missing as rescue teams continue searching for survivors and recovering bodies from areas buried under mud PUTRAJAYA: The government has received an assurance that 1,476 Myanmar nationals due to be repatriated this month will be safe upon their return, despite a warning from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) that the situation remains unsafe for refugees. Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said the Foreign Ministry had informed the government that the first batch of repatriations would proceed as agreed with Myanmar authorities. “So far, Wisma Putra, particularly the Foreign Minister, has informed us that what has been agreed and understood with Myanmar is that 1,476 of the 5,000 agreed for return will be safe in Myanmar,” he said at a press conference yesterday. Fahmi was responding to concerns raised by UNHCR, which said on Tuesday it was not involved in Malaysia’s planned repatriation programme and warned that ongoing armed conflict and violence meant Myanmar remains unsafe for refugees to return. UNHCR said any return must be voluntary, based on an informed decision and carried out in conditions of safety and dignity.

o 1,476 individuals from list of 5,000 to be returned on Sept 29

The clarification follows remarks by Bangladesh’s junior minister for local government, rural development and cooperatives Mir Shahe Alam, who was reported as saying Malaysia would recruit about 200,000 workers over six months, with recruitment expected to begin in phases. Malaysia has restricted the recruitment of Bangladeshi workers since 2024, while Dhaka has continued to seek greater access to the Malaysian labour market. Bangladesh remains one of Malaysia’s major sources of foreign labour, with its workers employed in sectors that include construction, manufacturing, plantation and services.

authorities, with returnees to be received by their home country. On a separate matter, Fahmi said Malaysia had not committed to recruiting 200,000 Bangladeshi workers over the next six months, dismissing a report that recruitment would begin in phases from the end of this month. He said he had contacted the Human Resources Ministry and was informed that the figure came from a junior Bangladeshi minister and did not represent an official decision by Dhaka. “It was made by someone, I understand, a junior minister. So, it does not represent an official decision of the Bangladesh government,” he said.

Fahmi 10,000 Myanmar refugees were being held at immigration detention depots. Of these, 5,000 had been screened by the Home Ministry, with their names subsequently forwarded to the Myanmar embassy. “Of that list, 1,476 have been agreed to be received by the Myanmar side,” he said. The first batch of 1,476 Myanmar nationals is scheduled to be repatriated on Sept 29 as part of the government’s planned programme involving 5,000 individuals. The government has previously maintained that the repatriation process involves screening and coordination with Myanmar said about

77 Malaysians arrive at Kathmandu, 55 others missing PUTRAJAYA: Seventy-seven

A man looking at a wall displaying photographs of missing people outside Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital. – REUTERSPIC

Fahmi said the US$1 million contribution would support humanitarian efforts in Nepal as authorities continue rescue, recovery and relief operations. – by Harith Kamal

the floods struck. Malaysia was among more than 30 countries whose nationals were reported missing following the disaster, with up to 55 Malaysians initially listed as unaccounted for.

and debris. The disaster has also affected hundreds of foreign nationals, including tourists, pilgrims and workers who were in the mountainous border region when

Anwar urges US, Iran to return to diplomacy PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged the US and Iran to halt further escalation and return immediately to diplomacy following the latest exchange of strikes between the two countries. In a statement yesterday, Anwar cautioned against economic measures that could worsen hardship for civilians and hinder diplomatic engagement, saying such actions risked exacerbating rather than resolving the crisis. “I urge the United States and Iran to halt further escalation and return immediately to diplomacy and the understandings reached in June. “This conflict can ultimately be

objective justifies exposing civilians to an expanding conflict,” he said. The latest escalation follows renewed US strikes on Iranian military targets, with Iran subsequently launching attacks on US-linked facilities in several countries in the region, including Jordan, Bahrain and Iraq. – by Qirana Nabilla Mohd Rashidi

Middle East into an even more destructive conflict. He said the party with the greatest capacity to influence the situation had a particular responsibility to exercise restraint and prevent further escalation. “The sovereignty of other states cannot be cast aside. No military

resolved only through political and diplomatic means. The world must not be made to pay the price for a wider regional war,” he said. Anwar expressed grave concern over the renewed escalation, adding that the latest exchange of attacks, which had spread to other states in the region, could draw the wider

THURSDAY | SEPT 3, 2026

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RM1.2b aid must reach small traders o Fomca urges transparent access to financing as it provides crucial support to operators Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: The government’s RM1.2 billion boost for microbusinesses risks missing the very traders it is meant to help if access to the funds is weighed down by bureaucracy, the Federation of Malaysian Consumer Associations (Fomca) observed. Its CEO Dr Saravanan Thambirajah said the additional RM1 billion in microfinancing and RM200 million Geran Sejahtera Madani could provide crucial support for hawkers, small grocers, night-market traders and home-based businesses grappling with rising operating costs. However, he said the government must ensure application procedures were simple, transparent and accessible, particularly for smaller operators outside major cities and those with limited digital literacy. “The key issue will be implementation. Assistance must be easy to apply for, transparent and accessible. “We should avoid complicated procedures and documentation that may discourage the very small traders the programme is intended to assist.” Saravanan said information on the schemes must also reach traders beyond major urban centres to prevent assistance from disproportionately benefiting businesses with better access to digital services or professional help. He said clear monitoring mechanisms should also be put in place to establish who received the assistance and whether the funds Parliament Open Day to give public first-hand experience KUALA LUMPUR: The Parliament Open Day, scheduled for Sept 12-13, aims to bring Parliament closer to the public and allow visitors to experience the “House of Democracy” first-hand, said Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul. He said the two day event would also mark Parliament’s 67th anniversary and National Month. “Parliament is where democracy begins, as it brings together representatives of the people. We want people to experience Parliament first hand rather than simply viewing it from a distance. Come inside and see for yourselves. This is Parliament, this is your House,” he said during an appearance on Bernama TV’s Ruang Bicara programme on Tuesday night. He said the Dewan Rakyat would not sit on the day, allowing for various exhibitions and public engagement activities. More than 40 ministries and agencies, including Perbadanan Pr1ma Malaysia, Residensi Wilayah, MyFutureJobs and Bank Rakyat, will participate in the open day, offering visitors information and services related to careers and financing. Johari said Parliament had introduced various institutional reforms in stages, including the 10 Parliamentary Special Select Committees to allow MPs to examine bills in detail before they are passed. Youth development is also a priority for Parliament, he said, with initiatives including exposure to house proceedings, participation through the National Service Training Programme and stronger governance of the Malaysian Youth Parliament. “We have a dedicated building for the Youth Parliament, where young people aged 18 to 30 are given the opportunity to learn and prepare for a future as an MP.” On Parliament’s institutional autonomy, Johari said the government’s agreement and recent approval of the Parliamentary Services Act marked a significant step towards restoring autonomy after 33 years under executive oversight. – Bernama

running businesses from home. Saravanan said microfinancing presented a separate concern, as assistance in the form of loans could create further financial pressure if repayment terms were not appropriate. “For microfinancing, affordability is equally important. We should not solve a cash-flow problem by creating another debt problem.” He said financing should therefore come with reasonable repayment terms and proper financial guidance to help small businesses manage the funds sustainably. Saravanan said the measures could help businesses manage immediate cost pressures, but should form part of a wider effort to strengthen the financial resilience of households and micro-enterprises. He said Budget 2027 should look beyond direct assistance by addressing the structural costs faced by families and small businesses, including food, housing, transport, utilities and healthcare. “Targeted assistance should continue for vulnerable households, but it should complement structural reforms rather than replace them.” He added that the government should ultimately measure the success of its assistance not simply by how much money was distributed but by whether recipients became more financially secure and better able to withstand rising costs. Looking ahead to Budget 2027, Ferlito said the government should establish a clearer and gradual path away from broad price subsidies while strengthening targeted assistance for those who genuinely need it. “The priority should be to establish a credible and gradual exit from broad price subsidies, beginning with fuel, while allowing prices to become increasingly market-determined.” He said this would allow Malaysia to preserve market signals while continuing to protect vulnerable households through targeted cash transfers or vouchers. Ferlito also cautioned that government-led initiatives in areas such as artificial intelligence and microfinancing should be assessed according to whether they ultimately improve productivity and capital allocation, rather than simply increase public spending. The prime minister announced the six measures on Sunday, including the restoration of the Budi95 quota to 300 litres, a 50% increase in school maintenance allocation for 2027, free AI application subscriptions for 100,000 youths, RM1 billion for public healthcare digitalisation, a higher e-Invoice exemption threshold and an additional RM1 billion in microfinancing. – by Harith Kamal is a resilience capability,“ he said, urging researchers and defence planners to focus on translation velocity, the speed at which basic discovery is converted into field-ready countermeasures. He outlined four main structural friction currently hindering national health response – speed asymmetry, operational physiology gaps, data-to-decision delays and institutional seams. A solution, he said would be a mission-driven network that brings together academia, healthcare providers and defence logistics to shorten the “five clocks of resilience”, which are time to detect, understand, counter, deploy and recover. – Bernama

Fomca said simpler procedures are needed for grants under the government’s aid for microbusinesses so that smaller operators are not left out, especially in rural areas and those with limited digital literacy. – SYED AZHAR SYED OSMAN/THESUN

reached genuine micro and small businesses. The government recently announced an additional RM1 billion in microfinancing, raising total microfinancing facilities for 2026

from RM5 billion to RM6 billion. It also announced the RM200 million Geran Sejahtera Madani to assist hawkers, small traders, night-market traders and mothers

Relief measures not substitute for reform: Economist PETALING JAYA: The government must ensure its latest six economic measures do not become another cycle of short-term relief that postpones the harder task of cutting expenditure and undertaking structural reforms, an economist observed. conditions. He said the government should therefore distinguish between measures that removed obstacles to productive activity and those that simply subsidised their consequences. subsidies, where a return to market-based pricing could become more politically difficult after consumers had become accustomed to government-supported prices.

Ferlito was also cautious about interpreting the six measures as evidence of a definitive shift in economic strategy, saying Budget 2027 would provide a clearer indication of the government’s fiscal direction. “At this stage, I would be cautious about interpreting the package as a definitive change in strategy.” He questioned whether Malaysia could credibly claim to be pursuing fiscal consolidation while government expenditure continued to grow. “So far we have not really seen a clear strategy of fiscal consolidation, which should be based mostly on lower expenditure. “Every year, the biggest budget ever gets announced. So, how can we seriously speak of consolidation?” Ferlito also warned that measures introduced as temporary relief could become increasingly difficult to withdraw once households and businesses adjusted their financial decisions around them. “Temporary measures have a tendency to become politically difficult to reverse, particularly subsidies.” He said this was particularly relevant to fuel

Centre for Market Education CEO Dr Carmelo Ferlito said while some of the measures could strengthen Malaysia’s economic capacity, others risked merely cushioning households and businesses from deeper economic problems. He said the true test of the package would come with Budget 2027 which should set out a clearer and credible path towards fiscal consolidation, reduced reliance on broad subsidies and stronger productivity-driven growth. “Reducing the e-invoicing burden on smaller firms is positive because it lowers compliance costs. Investments in school infrastructure and healthcare digitalisation can also improve capacity if they genuinely raise efficiency rather than simply expanding expenditure.” However, Ferlito cautioned against relying heavily on additional government spending to address cost-of-living pressures. “The economy cannot become fundamentally cheaper through government expenditure,” he said, arguing that sustainable improvements in living standards depended primarily on productivity growth, investment, competition and institutions that allowed prices to reflect economic

Health security essential as ‘strategic national capability’ BANGI: Health security must no longer be treated purely as a medical or public-health issue, but as a strategic national capability essential to defending the country’s sovereignty under prolonged pressure, said Armed Forces Health Services director-general Lt Gen Datuk Dr Zulkeffeli Mat Jusoh. Malaysian Society of Pharmacology and Physiology and the 1st Advances in Research & Clinical Medicine of Today symposium yesterday. He pointed out that recent global crises have demonstrated how biological threats move faster than administrative institutions and policy frameworks, underscoring the urgency of bridging the gap between scientific laboratories and operational environments.

Zulkeffeli stressed that a nation’s defence relies directly on the biological resilience of its citizens. “A nation that cannot protect the biological functioning of its people cannot protect its economy, sustain its military readiness, preserve public confidence or defend its sovereignty under prolonged pressure.” He said this at the 39th Scientific Meeting of the

He cautioned that scientific achievements lose their strategic value if they fail to function under severe operational stress, such as during extreme heat, high altitude, resource limitations or disrupted supply chains. “A therapy that works under operational stress

THURSDAY | SEPT 3, 2026

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Chauffeur wins RM23 million jackpot

Ű BY ANDREW SAGAYAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

excitement. My wife and I were overwhelmed with happiness and gratitude,” he said when he came to collect his Sports Toto jackpot winnings at STM Lottery’s head office in Berjaya Times Square yesterday. Accompanied by his daughter to collect his winnings, she said her father had always promised that if he ever won a lottery jackpot, he would use the money to help settle outstanding loans and debts of every family member. “My father said he definitely would settle the debts of all our family members. He also intend to save the balance for his retirement.”

grandchild this year. To me, I believe that my latest grandchild is the one who gave me luck and delivered this unexpected wealth to me. “When I saw the numbers while I was having dinner, I immediately stopped eating and asked my daughter to check the result for me. She quickly referred the Sports Toto app to verify the ticket,” he recalled. He said moments later, after scanning the ticket through the app, she confirmed that the ticket was indeed the jackpot-winning ticket worth RM23,945,954.40. “Of course, our reaction was of immediate joy. The entire family erupted with laughter and

Sembilan when he was spending the weekend at his daughter’s house. “My winning set of numbers, 3, 5, 6, 10, 20 and 42, carry a very special meaning to me,” he shared. The number three represents his three children, the number five represents the five members of his immediate family, the number six represents his six grandchildren, the number 10 and 20 correspond to his wedding date, Oct 20, and the last number 42 represents the years he has been married. “I had to change one of the numbers in my betting ticket to six when I got my sixth

KUALA LUMPUR: A 66-year-old chauffeur from Kuala Lumpur has won the RM23.95 million Supreme Sports Toto 6/58 Jackpot by betting on a series of family-inspired numbers. The veteran driver, who has been a regular Sports Toto punter for the past 10 years, revealed that he has been playing with the same set of numbers for many years with slight “yearly updates”. He said on Aug 29, he had purchased his Sports Toto 6/58 Jackpot ticket in Negeri

‘Funds for rural roads not withheld’

o Payment delays caused by repeated commitments and expenditures beyond approved budgets: Treasury

Development Ministry. He called on Prime Minister and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to explain claims that almost RM1 billion in funds allocated and approved for the ministry had yet to be channelled. “Are you saying the government no longer has enough money, or is there another agenda behind this budget not being given to the ministry?” he said in a Facebook video on Tuesday. He also said contractors had approached him almost daily over unpaid work, adding that prolonged delays could push some to the brink of bankruptcy or expose them to legal action. The Finance Ministry’s response, however, placed the immediate funding pressure on the Rural and Regional Development Ministry’s spending commitments rather than any restriction by the Treasury, while the additional RM300 million is intended to help clear the payment backlog.

current priorities. The Treasury was also identifying savings from other ministries to help offset the Rural and Regional Development Ministry’s commitments beyond its approved allocation, he said. The clarification came after Deputy Prime Minister and Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi raised concerns over delayed payments to contractors who had completed work and met the required contractual progress. Zahid said such delays could affect not only contractors, but also suppliers, subcontractors, workers and service providers, with wider implications for the local economy. Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh meanwhile questioned whether the government was facing financial constraints or whether there was another reason behind the alleged delay in channelling funds to the Rural and Regional

conservation process and the long-standing cultural ties between Malaysia and the United States, he said. Meanwhile, US Educational and Cultural Affairs Assistant Secretary of State Cate Dillon said the conservation initiative of the national monument would strengthen the 69-year-old diplomatic ties between the United States and Malaysia, particularly in the areas of education and culture. She said the US$250,000 grant from the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, in conjunction with the US Freedom 250th anniversary celebrations, aims to preserve the monument ahead of Malaysia’s 70th anniversary of independence. “Tugu Negara was sculpted by an American artist, Tan Sri Felix de Weldon, who also sculpted the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Virginia. “The United States is proud to launch this partnership with Malaysia to preserve our shared heritage and help make sure Tugu Negara would continue to stand for generations to come,” she said at the launch, which was attended by US Embassy in Malaysia Chargé d’Affaires David H. Gamble Jr. According to Dillon, through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, the partnership would facilitate the exchange of vital expertise between the countries’ historical conservation leaders. The conservation project addresses critical needs resulting from six decades of tropical weathering, among other factors. Conservation specialists from the US National Park Service would work closely with university conservators and the National Heritage Department to stabilise the sculpture, repair Development Ministry had nearly exhausted its allocation for the current year after repeatedly making commitments and spending beyond its approved budgets. As of June, it had spent RM1.9 billion of its RM2.1 billion allocation for rural road projects this year. Its spending had also exceeded approved allocations in other years, with RM1.8 billion spent against RM1.1 billion allocated in 2023, RM2 billion against RM1.3 billion in 2024 and RM2.3 billion against RM1.6 billion in 2025. “For several years, the ministry has made commitments and spent more than the annual allocations approved for rural road projects,” said Johan in a statement yesterday. He highlighted that the Finance Ministry had approved an additional RM300 million this year to help settle outstanding payments to contractors, while working with the Rural and Regional Development Ministry to reprioritise and rearrange its allocation according to

Ű BY THESUN TEAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: The Finance Ministry has denied withholding or restricting funds allocated to the Rural and Regional Development Ministry for rural road projects, saying all approved allocations have been fully channelled. Treasury secretary-general Tan Sri Johan Mahmood Merican said payment delays arose because the Rural and Regional

Tugu Negara conservation to begin next week PUTRAJAYA: Conservation work on Tugu Negara, the world’s tallest freestanding grouping of bronze sculptures, is expected to start next week and is scheduled to be completed before Aug 31, 2027, according to Universiti Malaysia Kelantan. Its vice-chancellor Datuk Prof Dr

Arham Abdullah said the university would serve primarily as a research and knowledge partner in the project. “Our role focuses on documentation, research and knowledge transfer, particularly in relation to conservation and restoration techniques,” he noted. “We want to ensure the expertise shared by US conservation specialists will not remain within the project alone, but would also be transferred to our academics and students. “The project would provide opportunities for workshops, public knowledge-sharing sessions, academic visits and scholarly publications,” he said during the launch of the US-supported US$250,000 (about RM1.1 million) Tugu Negara conservation initiative here on Tuesday. The university is providing hands-on technical training to more than 50 Malaysian conservation students as well as heritage professionals to build long-term local capacity for monument stewardship. Arham said the initiative provides Malaysian scholars and students with invaluable technical experience, ensuring Malaysia possesses the internal expertise required to preserve its national heritage treasures for generations to come. The project would incorporate a series of public engagement initiatives, including exhibitions, educational materials, public workshops and a documentary showcasing the

Dillon said the conservation initiative of the national monument would strengthen the 69-year-old diplomatic ties between the United States and Malaysia, particularly in the areas of education and culture. – SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN/THESUN

similar monument in Kuala Lumpur to honour the servicemen who gave their lives during World War II and the Malayan Emergency. He commissioned renowned American sculptor Felix de Weldon, the master behind the Marine Corps War Memorial, to design the monument, which was completed and dedicated 60 years ago, in 1966. – Bernama

structural seams and apply specialised protective patination. Tugu Negara’s origins can be traced back to 1960, during an official state visit to Washington, DC, by Malaysia’s first prime minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman. Deeply moved by the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Virginia, he envisioned a

THURSDAY | SEPT 3, 2026

5 Suspects in Tabung Haji case to be charged

MACC questions 12 in Felda corruption probe

PUTRAJAYA: Several individuals previously detained in connection with investigations into the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) report on Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) are expected to be charged in court today and tomorrow, said Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman. He said the charges would involve alleged abuse of power under Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009 and cheating under Section 420 of the Penal Code. The charges are expected to be filed at courts in Shah Alam, Kuala Lumpur and Kelantan. Abd Halim said another investigation paper would be referred to the attorney-general, with charges expected to follow next week in connection with MACC’s latest probe into a property leasing issue involving the Al Rawda investment. “There is also another investigation paper that will be referred to the attorney-general, and charges are expected to be filed next week following MACC’s latest investigation into a property lease issue involving the Al Rawda investment, namely hotel leases in Mecca and Madinah involving 2.49 billion Saudi Riyal.” He added that MACC had opened 14 investigation papers in connection with the RCI, four of which had been classified as “no further action”. “So far, 18 individuals have been detained, with 11 remanded, while 245 witnesses have been called and 60 premises searched and inspected to obtain relevant documents.” The 11 remanded individuals included a former CEO and former CFO of TH Plantation, a former director of Putra Perdana Construction, a former director of Putrajaya Perdana Berhad and a former TH chairman. Abd Halim also has not ruled out the possibility of a VVIP being charged in connection with The remand order was issued by Magistrate Ezrene Zakaria after MACC made an application. The man, who is in his 60s, was arrested at about 4.30pm yesterday after he arrived at the MACC headquarters to provide his statement in an investigation into the leasing of hotels in Saudi Arabia. The investigation is being conducted under Section 16(a)(A) of the MACC Act 2009, which relates to soliciting or receiving gratification as inducement or reward in connection with a transaction. The offence carries a maximum jail term of 20 years and a fine of at least five times the value of the gratification involved, or RM10,000, whichever is higher, under Section 24 of the same Act.

investigations into issues raised in the RCI report. He added that the individual could face charges after MACC completes its investigation into the leasing of properties under the Al Rawda investment in Saudi Arabia. He said MACC’s detention and investigation of several high-profile individuals following revelations in the RCI report on TH were not carried out arbitrarily or based solely on old cases. He also said a committee had been established to review the RCI report and previous TH investigations, while officers were instructed to act only on complaints and information received in accordance with established standard operating procedures. “At MACC, I established a committee to review new investigation papers as well as old cases that have yet to reach a conclusion. “There are investigation papers that were opened previously but remain pending to this day, with no decision made. “So, this committee will screen and review the status of these old investigation papers, including those without a decision. A decision will then be made on whether they should be reopened.” Abd Halim said the committee would determine within the week whether further action, including court charges, should be taken, adding that no charges would be filed if there were insufficient grounds. He added that two other investigation papers involving TH Marine, TH Alam and TH Alam Management, involving investments totalling RM334.2 million, would be referred to the Attorney-General’s Chambers soon. “The second case that has been completed involves allegations of corruption concerning TH’s 30% shareholding in Putrajaya Perdana Construction Sdn Bhd.” – By Qirana Nabilla Mohd Rashidi TH former chairman and a former Treasury secretary-general were released from MACC remand after being detained for seven days to assist investigations into issues involving TH. Investigations into issues raised in the RCI report are ongoing to ensure the country would not continue to suffer losses. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was reported as saying appropriate action should be taken if the investigation found any wrongdoing, but emphasised that the process must be based on evidence and the law. On July 29, the Islamic Development Department Malaysia published the 211-page RCI report on the management and operations of TH between 2014 and 2020. The report highlighted various weaknesses in the institution’s management during the period and made 25 recommendations for improvement. – By Qirana Nabilla Mohd Rashidi

o Investigations centred around alleged asset purchases that led to financial losses

or highlighted in forensic reports had been reopened by MACC following new information that provided sufficient grounds to revisit them. “Six of the cases I announced involve new investigations, while the case involving Grand Park City is a continuation of an earlier probe,” he said. The seven cases are: 0 Dataran Aras Sdn Bhd – Felda acquired the company in 2011 for RM148.2 million for an oil palm plantation project in Limbang, Sarawak. However, the project encountered major problems as the land could not be utilised. 0 Grand Borneo Hotel Sdn Bhd – The acquisition of the Kota Kinabalu hotel for RM86.4 million was previously investigated by MACC in 2017 over possible irregularities in the purchase process and alleged overpayment, similar to investigations involving hotel acquisitions in London and Kuching. 0 Merdeka Palace Hotel and Suites – The Kuching hotel was among several property transactions by FIC investigated by MACC. The probe eventually resulted in former Felda chairman Tan Sri Mohd Isa Abdul Samad being charged with nine corruption offences involving RM3.09 million in connection with the RM160 million hotel acquisition. 0 Park City Grand Plaza Kensington – The London hotel property was reopened for investigation by MACC in 2017 after new information emerged. An earlier investigation in 2015 had found no offences under the MACC Act. 0 Felda Wellness Corporation Sdn Bhd – The company’s establishment and management were flagged in Felda’s forensic review over alleged governance weaknesses and questionable transactions. 0 Felda House and Grand Felda House – The acquisition of the two student accommodation properties in Wembley, London, was among the FIC investments highlighted in

the Felda White Paper. 0 Kuala Lumpur Vertical City – The development on Felda-owned land along Jalan Semarak in Kuala Lumpur raised concerns over the transfer of land ownership and project governance. However, an MACC investigation in 2018 found no evidence of corruption or abuse of power in the land transfer agreement. Abd Halim said a separate, older investigation into the Park City Grand Plaza property remained ongoing and was currently subject to the Mutual Legal Assistance process. He also hinted that arrests could begin as early as next week and would be carried out in stages, depending on the scope and findings of the investigation. “However, the amount of alleged corruption involved had yet to be established as the investigation was still in its early stages.” Separately, Abd Halim said MACC had received information on Aug 24 concerning concerns over the quality of oil palm seedlings and the implementation of development and replanting programmes at Felda Palong 7. The information was submitted by the chairman of Pertubuhan Badan Bertindak Generasi Palong and involved a development programme said to benefit about 450 Felda settlers, including concerns over the supply and delivery of the seedlings. “MACC has given an assurance that its investigation into Felda’s management will be conducted thoroughly, fairly and professionally, in accordance with the rule of law,” Abd Halim said. He also urged all parties to allow the commission to carry out its duties without interference and refrain from speculation that could affect the investigation. He said the move was necessary to safeguard the interests of the country and those involved, while preserving Malaysia’s reputation and credibility.

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission (MACC) has recorded statements from 12 individuals as part of its investigation into alleged corruption, abuse of power and misappropriation involving the Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) and its investment arm, Felda Investment Corporation Sdn Bhd (FIC). MACC Chief Commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman said the individuals were called up following the opening of six new investigation papers. The individuals comprise three FIC directors, an FIC secretary, two members of its legal division, a valuer, three representatives from a law firm, as well as officers from the Kuala Lumpur Land and Mines Office and the Kuala Lumpur Valuation and Property Services Department. He added that the investigations centred on allegations that several assets were purchased or acquired at prices above their assessed market value, resulting in financial losses to Felda. “The Special Operations Division began investigating the matter after receiving information on Aug 24. So far, 12 individuals have been called up and their statements recorded to assist the investigation,” he said at a press conference at the MACC headquarters yesterday. Abd Halim said seven Felda related cases previously investigated

Former minister remanded PETALING JAYA: A former minister has been remanded for five days as the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) investigates issues raised in the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) report on Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH). Previously, a

MONEY MACHINES ... Perak police chief Datuk Mohd Alwi Zainal Abidin (second from right) showing devices seized during an operation to bust Bitcoin mining and electricity theft activities in Sungai Siput and Central Perak. – BERNAMAPIC

THURSDAY | SEPT 3, 2026

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‘Scrutinise tour packages before buying’

o Travellersshouldcheck fine print, verify details toensureauthenticity of deals: Expert

smaller towns and rural areas. “They should also ensure their passports have a sufficient validity period, apply for visas or e-visas early and keep copies of important travel documents on their phones as backups.” Mohd Hafiz said for Malaysian families, food availability, particularly halal options, should be checked before booking, especially when travelling beyond major tourist areas. “They should also arrange a travel SIM or roaming package in advance to avoid unexpected charges.” Meanwhile, he emphasised that destination research should come before purchasing a travel package, even for all-inclusive deals. He said travellers should check the weather, local transport, safety, cultural practices and laws, as poor weather or unfamiliar transport systems could quickly turn a good deal into a stressful holiday. “Travellers should also research rules on dress, tipping, customs, prohibited items and areas to avoid, as local laws can differ significantly from Malaysia.” He also urged travellers to check whether commonly used medicines were restricted at their destination. On travel insurance, Mohd Hafiz said overseas medical coverage, including hospitalisation, emergency evacuation and repatriation should be a priority. “Not everyone treats insurance as part of the trip cost. But the risk is

there. One overseas hospital admission or losing your baggage could cost more than the entire holiday.” He said travellers should also check coverage for cancellations, delays, missed connections and baggage loss, while those planning activities such as diving, skiing or high-altitude trekking should ensure these are covered. For Malaysians travelling overseas several times a year, Mohd Hafiz said an annual travel insurance policy could also be more economical than purchasing individual policies for every trip. As for the fair, his biggest advice is for travellers to walk in with a plan and a spending limit. He recommended deciding on a shortlist of destinations, travel dates and maximum budget before arriving at the fair. “My strategy is to use the first round to look, not to buy.” He said travellers should walk through the halls, collect brochures, photograph offers and compare packages before making a decision. He also advised against being pressured by “today only” promotions, saying travellers should take time to assess the tangible and intangible costs of the package before committing. “At the booth, travellers should ask specific questions about the airline, hotel, inclusions, exclusions and cancellation policy, while ensuring deposits and payment terms are clearly stated in writing.”

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING Malaysians heading to the Matta Fair from tomorrow should look beyond advertised package prices, as hidden costs could turn an apparently cheap holiday into a more expensive one, a tourism academic said. Universiti Teknologi Mara Faculty of Hotel and Tourism Management professor Dr Mohd Hafiz Hanafiah said travellers should check what a package includes, excludes and its change and cancellation terms. “Don’t look at the headline price, but look at what is in it.” He said packages to the same destination could vary widely, with cheaper options often involving low-cost flights, hotels far from city centres and extra charges for transfers, meals and tipping. “Once you add the extras, the cheaper one could end up costing more.” He also urged travellers to consider actual holiday time, as a seven-day package could effectively become five days after accounting for flights and transit. JAYA:

Mohd Hafiz said travellers should walk through the halls, collect brochures, photograph offers and compare packages before making a decision. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

then discover it is an hour from everything and they are spending RM100 a day on taxis or drivers.” He added that travellers should consider their age and physical ability when planning itineraries, particularly those over 40, advising against overly packed schedules. “Trust me, you will be exhausted.” He also said travellers should carry sufficient local currency, as cards may not be accepted in

He called for travellers to verify that agencies hold a valid Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry licence, and to pay only to official company accounts and obtain receipts. Mohd Hafiz said another common mistake was overlooking the practicalities and costs of getting around at the destination. “People plan the flights and hotel carefully but forget the distances. They book a hotel that looks cheap,

Batu Laut Beach emerges as new Selangor attraction SEPANG: The Batu Laut Beach is emerging as a new attraction for local tourists, particularly those seeking recreational activities by the sea during weekends and holiday seasons. Selangor Housing and Sustainable Urban Development Standing Committee chairman Datuk Borhan Aman Shah said the beach has become popular among sailing and camping enthusiasts. “Pantai Batu Laut is becoming increasingly famous. “This year, we will organise the Selangor@Batu Laut Festival for the third time and it has received very encouraging response since it was introduced. “We have also developed numerous facilities for the convenience of visitors, such as spacious parking areas, eateries, toilet facilities and a seafront suitable for recreational activities.” Meanwhile, Borhan also expressed appreciation to the Bernama Motorcycle Club for choosing Kampung Batu Laut as its adopted village and organising the 69th Merdeka Tour Programme at Dataran Batu Laut on Aug 31. The event was held in collaboration with the Selangor Agricultural Development Corporation. He said external agencies were

welcome to organise programmes in Batu Laut for the benefit of the surrounding community. The event also featured the Batu Laut Merdeka Fun Run, Rahmah Ehsan Sale and decorated motorcycle competition in conjunction with the 69th National Day celebrations. – Bernama

THURSDAY | SEPT 3, 2026

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HK activist pleads guilty to collusion with foreign bodies

Sri Lanka-US agents bust Pakistan drug network COLOMBO: Anti-narcotics agents from the United States and Sri Lanka seized almost half a tonne of crystal methamphetamine following a joint operation targeting a Pakistani drug network, police said yesterday. Some 463kg of the synthetic drug were seized from a shipping container that arrived in Colombo over the weekend and two Pakistani men were arrested, police deputy inspector-general Ashoka Dharmasena told reporters. The US embassy in Colombo said the narcotics, valued at US$21 million (RM84.9 million) and concealed in bath towels, were meant to be smuggled to international markets via Sri Lanka. The US Drug Enforcement Administration’s office and Sri Lanka Police Narcotics Bureau conducted the joint operation, the embassy said in a statement, after tracking shipping containers from Pakistan between Aug 14 and Aug 29. “This operation underscores the strength of the US-Sri Lanka partnership in dismantling criminal organisations that fund terrorism and threaten communities in both our countries,” it said. Dharmasena said they had also arrested a Sri Lankan and confirmed the operation followed a “tip-off”. Sri Lanka’s anti-narcotics drive since October has resulted in the seizure of nearly 14 tonnes of illegal drugs, he said. The haul includes methamphetamine, also known as ice, heroin and cocaine. Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala told parliament that most of the illegal drugs came from Afghanistan and Pakistan, and were smuggled into the island by sea. He said there were an estimated 400,000 drug users in the island nation of 22 million people. In October 2024, a court here sentenced 10 Iranian men to life imprisonment after they pleaded guilty to heroin smuggling. Sri Lanka’s largest single seizure of narcotics was in December 2016, when customs officials found 800kg of cocaine in a shipping container of timber. – AFP Mount Sinabung erupts again JAKARTA: Mount Sinabung in North Sumatra province erupted again yesterday, as more than 600 residents have been evacuated amid increased volcanic activity. According to the Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation the eruption began at 7.20am (8.20am in Malaysia), with an ash column rising 1,000m above the summit or 3,460m above sea level. “The ash column was observed to be grey to brown and thick, moving towards the east and southeast,” it said in a report. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency said 615 residents from 211 families in Kuta Tengah had been moved to an emergency response post, with the village among areas identified as being at risk. Agency acting head of Data, Information and Disaster Communication Centre, Berton Panjaitan said the danger zone had been expanded based on recommendations from the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry. “Residents and visitors are not permitted to carry out activities within a 3km radius of the summit, as well as within a sectoral radius of up to 6km towards the southeast,” he said. The situation also prompted the Consulate General of Malaysia in Medan on Tuesday to urge Malaysians in or heading to the Karo Regency to remain vigilant, avoid areas surrounding Mount Sinabung and follow instructions from Indonesian authorities. – Bernama

Wong has had a lengthy “opportunity to reflect on the path that he has taken ... and the consequences of his actions,” Chan said. Wong has read a diverse selection of hundreds of books in detention and was in a positive frame of mind, he added. He eventually wanted to be released to look after his ageing parents. Judge Tam said he would decide on the sentence “as soon as possible” and ended the hearing

Wong is already in jail serving an existing sentence on an earlier national security charge of conspiracy to commit subversion after he was among a group of activists who took part in an unofficial primary election in 2020. His current sentence is scheduled to end in January.

The Lincoln , with roughly 5,000 sailors and Marines, was deployed in November last year and was involved in the naval blockade and combat operations in the war with Iran. It set a modern-day record for consecutive days at sea, according to Democratic lawmakers. Typically naval deployments are for between six and nine months but during times of conflict that can be extended. Accompanied by other US naval vessels, the aircraft carrier will stop in Thailand – the United States’ only treaty partner in mainland Southeast Asia – for five days of rest and recuperation, according to Thai officials. “Our arrival in Laem Chabang provides a well-deserved opportunity for our sailors and Marines to rest and recharge. It also underscores the strong and enduring partnership and alliance between the United States and Thailand,” said the commander of Carrier Strike Group 3, Rear Admiral Robert E. Loughran. “What this strike group has accomplished is truly historic. I could not be prouder of the exceptional professionalism and expertise demonstrated by every member of this team during our operations.” Thailand became a US treaty ally in 1954, before being designated a major non-Nato ally in 2003. Thailand’s armed forces have long been reliant on US defence hardware and both countries’ militaries maintain strong relations and hold annual exercises. Bangkok has made clear the visit is for logistics and rest and recuperation in line with its treaty commitments and is not connected to the conflict in the Middle East. The arrival of thousands of military personnel has raised hopes of an economic boost for the nearby resort city of Pattaya. A fleet of around 40 buses will ferry the HONG KONG: Prominent democracy activist Joshua Wong (pic) pleaded guilty yesterday to a charge of collusion with foreign entities, a national security crime that carries a maximum sentence of life in prison. Wong, 29, rose to international prominence as a teenage activist in Hong Kong, one of a group of youngsters whose protest efforts have now effectively been outlawed by a National Security Law that Beijing imposed on the Asian financial hub in 2020. Wearing a dark blue shirt, black-rimmed glasses and with a short-back-and-sides haircut, Wong waved and nodded to people from the court’s dock, inhaling deeply at times, before pleading guilty to William Tam, a government approved national security judge, at the High Court in Admiralty district. Several Western diplomats attended the hearing. The prosecution highlighted what it said was an international media and political campaign by Demosisto, a now-disbanded political party that once backed a referendum on Hong Kong’s sovereignty and counted Wong as one of its leaders, that sought to bring sanctions and other hostile actions on Hong Kong and China in 2019 and 2020. o Detainee has served six years in jail for subversion

A charge sheet seen earlier by Reuters accused Wong of having conspired with exiled activist Nathan Law and others to ask foreign countries, institutions, organisations, or individuals outside China to impose sanctions or blockades. Such actions against Hong Kong or China, along with other hostile activities targeting them, took place in 2020, between July 1 and Nov 23, it said. Wong’s case and others are being closely watched by human rights groups and some Western countries tracking the implementation of the National Security Law. In mitigation, Wong’s lawyer Derek Chan urged the judge to consider that his client’s actions were not at the grave end of the offence. While the crime carries a maximum sentence of life in prison, Chan requested a term at the “upper end of the lower band” of three to 10 years be considered, as Wong was still a young man who had already served nearly six years in prison.

without setting a date. His case comes after two other activists were found guilty of inciting subversion last month after they used the phrase “end one-party dictatorship” in their political activities. Lee Cheuk-yan, 69, and Chow Hang-tung, 41, were part of a group known for organising annual vigils marking Beijing’s 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown. Hong Kong’s National Security Law was passed on June 30, 2020, in part as a response to months of protests that roiled the city in 2019. While human rights groups and Western countries criticised the law as excessive, given the high degree of autonomy Hong Kong was promised following its handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997, Hong Kong and Chinese officials said it was vital to restore stability. – Reuters

US aircraft carrier arrives in Thailand LAEM CHABANG: US Navy aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln steamed into Thailand’s Laem Chabang port yesterday after 286 days at sea, including a long deployment in the Middle East, amid reports of mental health concerns and deteriorating conditions on board.

USS Abraham Lincoln approaching Laem Chabang yesterday. – AFPPIC

including parts of Bangkok and Pattaya, despite occasional crackdowns. On the eve of the Lincoln’s arrival, Pattaya street vendors near the city’s infamous “Walking Street” nightlife zone were excited by the prospect of a boost in sales. “It’s been so quiet these days,” said clothes seller Kadsalin Ketpa, 43, who stocked up on US basketball vests and elephant-patterned trousers ahead of the port visit. “I hope with their arrival they would drive my sales up. I’ve prepared some products for them, I don’t know if they will like them.” Food seller Saroch, 45, said port visits by the US military were good for business and always something to look forward to. “They’re here for drinks, having fun and letting loose,” Saroch said. – Reuters

military personnel between Pattaya and the port at Laem Chabang where the vessels will dock, Pattaya Mayor Poramase Ngampiches said. Pattaya sits on the Gulf of Thailand, about 150km southeast of Bangkok. “There are certain places and activities that the personnel are prohibited from participating in, such as all kinds of water sports, jet skiing, bungee jumping, wrestling, and boxing,” he said. Police will deploy additional patrols around Pattaya’s main beachfront and nightlife district, following raids over the weekend that led to 40 to 50 people being detained for suspected prostitution, officials said. Although illegal in Thailand, the sex industry operates openly in major tourism hubs,