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Decades after Mr Opposition’s passing, his family reflects on a time when political debate strengthened democracy across racial lines Honouring fearless legacy of Tan Chee Khoon

Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY Electricity bill spikes jolt govt into action PM calls special meeting to seek immediate relief measures for affected households.

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SCAN ME No. 9277 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) 5)

Malaysia braces for record heat as El Nino intensifies MetMalaysia warns phenomenon almost certain to hit ‘super’ status by year-end, driving temperatures past 40°C.

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SARONG SPECTACLE ... Commuters dressed in colourful batik, songket , and traditional attire fill the Tun Razak Exchange with dance and vibrant energy to celebrate Malaysia Day during the annual Keretapi Sarong 2026 event. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Repatriation talks Report on h page 2 Anwar to engage Myanmar president on taking back Rohingya and other Myanmar nationals from Malaysia.

THURSDAY | SEPT 17, 2026

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Anwar to invite Myanmar premier for talks on Rohingya

New M’sia agreement unnecessary: Minister

Ű BY THESUN TEAM

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia does not need a new agreement or “new deal” to address the rights and assurances under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). In a Malaysia Day message on Facebook yesterday, Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said the terms of MA63 remained relevant and binding, emphasising that the agreement did not cease to have effect following the formation of the Federal Constitution. He added that was expressly reflected in Article VIII of MA63, which requires the governments of the Federation of Malaya, North Borneo and Sarawak to take legislative, executive or other measures necessary to implement the assurances, undertakings and recommendations contained in the Inter-Governmental Committee Report and its annexes. “Moving forward, the country does not need a new agreement or what some parties refer to as a ‘new deal’. “This is because the terms of the agreement expressly show that MA63 did not end once the Federal Constitution was enacted, and that the commitments and responsibilities outlined remain relevant and binding, past, present and forever.” He also said this year’s Malaysia Day, marking the 63rd anniversary of the formation of Malaysia, should be an opportunity for Malaysians to develop a deeper understanding of the country’s history and the circumstances surrounding the formation of the federation. Armizan said understanding the country’s history should go beyond the Federation of Malaya Agreement 1948, the social contract among the three main communities and the independence of Malaya in 1957. He added that should also include full acceptance of MA63 as the “birth certificate” of the Federation of Malaysia. He also highlighted the historical significance of Sept 16, saying the date had not been formally recognised as a national occasion for more than 40 years after Malaysia was formed in 1963. He said the focus had previously been on Aug 31 as Independence Day. ‘Views on Najib pardon given honestly’ PUTRAJAYA: Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh said she had expressed her views on former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s pardon application during the Pardons Board meeting on Sept 11. Yeoh, who is a member of the Pardons Board, said she had expressed her views honestly, guided by her conscience and in the national interest, in addition to reviewing the written opinion of the attorney general. “As a member of the Pardons Board and having considered the written opinion of the attorney general, I have provided my views in my capacity as the minister responsible for the Federal Territories. “I have stated my views honestly, guided by my conscience and with the best interests of the nation in mind.” The statement was issued in response to remarks by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said regarding the deferment of Najib’s pardon application. At the same time, she said that under Article 42 of the Federal Constitution, the authority and final decision on the matter rest with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. On Tuesday, Azalina was reported as saying that any questions or clarifications regarding the deferment of Najib’s pardon application should be directed to Yeoh. – Bernama

He also emphasised that any return must be accompanied by safety guarantees. “If they bring them back and they are all killed, like before, that cannot happen either. “So our negotiation is not just negotiating to send them back. We ask, can you guarantee their safety? Can you make the area a safe area?” Anwar said Malaysia would continue to maintain a humanitarian approach while enforcing its laws against those who violate them. “Malaysia must maintain the image of our country as one that has humanity. “Arrest them, yes (if they do wrong). Detain them, yes. But don’t beat them, don’t abuse them and don’t insult them.” Malaysia has previously announced that the first phase of its voluntary repatriation programme will involve 1,476 Myanmar nationals, out of a total 5,000 agreed for repatriation in stages. The first batch is scheduled to return on Sept 29.

that direct engagement was necessary to resolve the Rohingya issue. He added that he had met Min, then head of Myanmar’s military junta, in Bangkok about two years ago and held another meeting with him in Beijing, where he pushed for Myanmar to create conditions for the safe return of its nationals. He also said Malaysia’s negotiations included seeking guarantees that returnees would not be killed or persecuted and that areas to which they returned would be made safe. He said Malaysia was also supporting efforts involving Thailand and Bangladesh to facilitate the return of Rohingya from Bangladesh, where about 1.5 million Rohingya are currently hosted. Anwar said Malaysia’s own effort was only part of a wider repatriation process, adding that Myanmar had agreed to take 50,000 from Bangladesh and 5,000 from Malaysia initially.

o Govt prepared to assist in repatriation process as part of negotiation efforts: PM

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL

PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will invite Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing to Malaysia for official talks aimed at finding a longer-term solution to the repatriation of Rohingya and other Myanmar nationals from the country. Anwar said the invitation was part of Malaysia’s efforts to negotiate directly with Myanmar over the return of those currently in Malaysia, emphasising that the issue could not be resolved simply by condemning the Myanmar government. “I will invite the president of Myanmar to visit Malaysia officially,” he said in a podcast interview on Sembang OhhYeahh. “Why am I inviting him? I want to tell him, we can be friends, we can trade, we can accept Myanmar, but Myanmar must accept (them). If they cannot take 200,000 at once, take them in stages.” Anwar said Malaysia was prepared to assist in the repatriation process, including covering logistical costs, as part of efforts to persuade Myanmar to accept its nationals. He added that Myanmar had already agreed to take back 5,000 individuals from Malaysia, with 1,500 expected to be returned within the next one to two weeks. “ Alhamdulillah , now they have agreed to 5,000. 1,500 will be brought back in the next one or two weeks.” He also said Malaysia’s approach was based on negotiation rather than confrontation, adding that Myanmar’s acceptance was necessary for any repatriation to take place. “People shout, get angry at Myanmar. Who is going to take them? Where do you want to send them? They are not recognised as Myanmar citizens. “When we want to send them back, they say, ‘No, it’s not my citizen.’ So that is why we have to negotiate.” Anwar said Malaysia had previously been reluctant to engage with Myanmar because of its position within Asean, but maintained

OUTSTANDING OUTFITS ... Commuters dance and pose while dressed in batik , songket and other traditional attire during the Keretapi Sarong event at the Tun Razak Exchange.. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Govt to address concerns over high electricity bills PETALING JAYA: Public concerns over unexpectedly high electricity bills has prompted the government to act, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim calling a special meeting today to consider immediate measures to ease the burden on affected households. consuming no more than 600 kilowatt-hours (kWh) a month remained protected and were not affected by higher tariff rates arising from increased fuel costs this year. However, he said haze conditions and warmer weather in recent weeks had contributed to increased electricity implemented fairly and reasonably, with the interests and wellbeing of the people remaining the priority.” TNB had previously clarified that AFA was a two-way mechanism that adjusts for changes in fuel costs and foreign exchange rates, rather than a sudden increase in electricity tariffs.

It added that consumers received AFA rebates for nine consecutive months, from August 2025 to April 2026, when global fuel costs were lower. However, it also said a surcharge had been imposed from May following higher global fuel costs amid the crisis in the Middle East. TNB said the AFA surcharge for September stood at 3.67 sen per kWh. It added that the mechanism worked in both directions, with savings passed on to consumers when fuel costs fell, while higher costs were reflected through a surcharge when fuel costs increased. – By Harith Kamal

consumption among some households, pushing their monthly usage beyond the 600kWh threshold. Such households would consequently be subject to the Automatic Fuel Cost Adjustment (AFA). The issue has also drawn complaints on social media from consumers who said their electricity bills had risen unusually sharply. Anwar said the meeting would examine immediate mitigation measures to reduce the impact of higher bills on affected households. “The Madani government will continue to ensure that every targeted subsidy measure is

The meeting will bring together the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry, Energy Commission, Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) and Finance Ministry. Anwar said his attention was immediately focused on concerns raised by the public after his return from India and the Maldives. “I have heard the concerns raised, and this matter must be given due attention and addressed immediately.” He said the government would maintain its targeted subsidy approach to protect the majority of domestic consumers. He added that about 80% of domestic users

THURSDAY | SEPT 17, 2026 3 ‘Nation’s challenge making graduates research-ready’ PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s challenge in meeting its target of having 200 researchers, scientists, engineers and technologists (RSET) for every 10,000 members of the workforce by 2030 would not be due to a shortage of STEM graduates but a failure to convert them into research-active talent, says an academic. University of Nottingham Malaysia Research and Knowledge Exchange Vice Provost of Prof Dr Shahir Liew said Malaysia has produced a sizeable pool of STEM graduates, with more than 326,000 students pursuing STEM fields in public universities since 2023. He said the country, however, needs to distinguish between having STEM-qualified professionals and having personnel actively engaged in research and development (R&D). Shahir said Malaysia’s real constraint is converting graduates and professionals into research-ready RSET talent rather than simply increasing the number of STEM degree holders. He said this requires closer cooperation among the government, industry and academia to create pathways that could turn STEM qualifications into actual R&D capability. He added that one area that needs attention is the relationship between universities and industry, which traditionally focuses on sponsorships, guest lectures and internships. Shahir said these partnerships should instead involve industry in curriculum design and provide students with real-world research problems that could be incorporated into coursework and thesis projects. He said employers could also co-sponsor part-time postgraduate research for their employees, particularly when the research addresses actual business or R&D needs. “This gives professionals a tangible incentive to pursue research qualifications alongside their day jobs while giving employers a direct return in the form of applied research relevant to their own operations.” He pointed to AI-related applied research at the University of Nottingham Malaysia as an example of how closer collaboration could accelerate the transition from academic research to commercial application. Shahir said the university has developed an AI-driven model that learns bio-algae growth patterns from ambient conditions and is now coupled with industrial production to help scale commercial bio-algae-derived food. He said the development of RSET talent would only deliver results if the industry created enough R&D-intensive roles to absorb the talent being developed. “Research must lead to development, commercialisation and impact to create lasting change.” He said with Budget 2027 set to be tabled on Oct 9, the government has an opportunity to fund and formalise pathways that could strengthen Malaysia’s RSET pipeline. – By Kirtinee Ramesh

Umno-PAS electoral pact not likely to include PN: Expert

PETALING growing willingness to work with PAS does not necessarily mean it is ready to join forces with Perikatan Nasional (PN), according to analysts who say that Umno is drawing a clear line between electoral cooperation and surrendering its political identity. Universiti Malaya socio-political analyst Datuk Prof Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi said PAS is now part of Umno’s strategic calculations but its broader political direction remains firmly centred on Barisan Nasional (BN). “The centre of gravity remains BN and the Blue Malaysia Agenda. “PAS could become a partner in an understanding aimed at avoiding damaging clashes, particularly in Malay-majority seats, but Umno does not appear to be handing over the right to determine its direction to PAS or PN.” He said this was reflected in statements by Kedah delegates during the recent Umno general assembly that they were prepared to negotiate with PAS but not PN, suggesting that Umno sees a difference between dealing directly with PAS and entering a wider coalition structure. Awang Azman said this gives Umno room to cooperate with PAS without having to accept the interests and power structure of the entire PN bloc. He added that such an approach would allow Umno to preserve its autonomy ahead of GE16 while keeping open the possibility of cooperation where it benefits the party electorally. He also said Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s insistence that the “grand collaboration” is not a merger is significant as it allows Umno and PAS to cooperate without either party formally giving up its identity. “I see this as Umno drawing a new boundary. Cooperation, yes but JAYA: Umno’s o ‘Islamic party could become partner in an understanding aimed at avoiding damaging clashes during polls, particularly in Malay-majority seats’ Ű BY HARITH KAMAL

Awang Azman said Ahmad Zahid’s insistence that the “grand collaboration” is not a merger is significant as it allows Umno and PAS to cooperate without either party formally giving up its identity. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

“That is ultimately Umno’s strongest negotiating position – the door to cooperation is open but Umno itself still holds the key to its own house.” International Islamic University Malaysia political analyst and Iseas-Yusof Ishak Institute fellow Assoc Prof Dr Syaza Shukri said a potential Umno-PAS alignment could represent a significant change in Malay political competition. She said previous cooperation between Malay-based parties had also shown how quickly political interests could diverge. “We have seen PAS and Bersatu working together before but breaking apart, especially in Perlis.” She said it is still too early to determine whether Umno and PAS could work effectively together, with the next challenge being to expand their cooperation beyond individual states.

surrendering its identity, no.” Awang Azman said the strategy also separates Umno’s relationship with PAS from its past experience with PN and Bersatu, which complicated the party’s position during the Muafakat Nasional period. He added that Umno had little reason to repeat an arrangement in which it found itself caught between competing centres of political loyalty. “Umno wants to be capable of working with others because it is strong, rather than being forced to cooperate because it is weak.” He also said Umno did not have to choose between going it alone and entering a full political alliance, as cooperation could take different forms, including non-aggression pacts, seat coordination, tactical support and even post-election government cooperation.

Boost post-graduate research capabilities, says academic PETALING JAYA: Malaysia should make postgraduate research a more accessible mid-career pathway for engineers, scientists and technologists already in the enrolment remains comparatively low, accounting for around 9% of total higher education enrolment or approximately 114,600 students of which 33.74% were international students. “Malaysia’s postgraduate research pipeline currently depends industry-embedded postgraduate research programmes for working professionals. “Converting experienced engineers, scientists, and technologists already in the could allow a workplace problem to become a thesis question while ensuring that the research has practical value for industry. Shahir said creating the programmes alone would not be enough as working professionals currently have limited incentives to pursue postgraduate research. Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH

and help professionals stand out among peers but few are designed to lead towards a research qualification.” He said a more integrated system would allow professionals to build research capability at their own pace while creating a clearer pathway into research-intensive roles. “Industry involvement will also be crucial, with employers potentially co-sponsoring employees’ part-time postgraduate research tied to real business R&D needs.” Shahir said such a model could benefit both sides by giving professionals a pathway to advance their expertise while allowing companies to obtain research relevant to their operations.

workforce into research-ready talent builds capacity from within, tapping into talents who are already qualified, employed and familiar with local industry needs.” He said the admissions criteria should recognise substantial industry experience as preparation for research, while universities could allow professionals to develop research projects around real problems encountered in their workplaces. He added that such an approach

workforce, said University of Nottingham Malaysia Research and Knowledge Exchange Vice Provost Prof Dr Shahir Liew. He said the approach could help strengthen Malaysia’s pool of researchers, scientists, engineers and technologists without having to rely solely on producing more fresh STEM graduates. Shahir said according to the Higher Education Ministry’s December 2025 data, postgraduate

significantly on imported talent rather than Malaysians moving into research careers at scale.” Shahir said postgraduate study should be viewed not only as a way to gain higher qualifications but also as a pathway for experienced professionals to develop research capabilities and contribute to innovation. He said Malaysia should therefore invest more in flexible, part-time and

“Employer-sponsored research degrees and government-industry co-funding schemes can help reduce financial and professional barriers.” He also proposed linking Malaysia’s lifelong-learning and micro-credential initiatives more directly to postgraduate research. “Most micro-credentials today are designed to build employability

THURSDAY | SEPT 17, 2026

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Penang proposed as platform to develop tech with China

Ganesh noted that Penang’s Freedom of Information Appeals Board had ordered disclosure on June 30, following an appeal by the group’s former chairman. The main agreement has been released but schedules and appendices are still outstanding. He urged the state to decide under Clause 18.1 before Oct 18, either serving termination notice or explaining why it intends to keep the agreement. “The state should enforce that requirement, explain its decision on termination and publish the complete agreement.“ This follows Chow’s Aug 13 remarks that the state must follow legal procedure and timelines to avoid legal complications, where he questioned who would bear damages if proper process was not followed. – By T.C. Khor KLIA standardises e-hailing entry fee SEPANG: KL International Airport (KLIA) has standardised the entry fee for e-hailing vehicles at RM2, inclusive of tax, across Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, effective yesterday. The revised fee represents a reduction from the previous charges of RM3 at Terminal 1 and RM2.16 at Terminal 2, providing passengers with a single rate for e-hailing pickups at both terminals. Malaysia Airports said the standardisation is aimed at providing greater consistency and clarity for passengers and e-hailing operators, while supporting a more streamlined pickup experience across both terminals. Meanwhile, the enhanced e-hailing facilities introduced at Terminal 1 in August as part of its improvement initiatives have recorded encouraging improvements in operational performance. “Within one month of implementation, 99.3% of e-hailing drivers now complete passenger pickups and exit within the allocated 10-minute grace period, up from 49.4% previously, while daily vehicle volume entering the pickup lanes has decreased by 13.5%, from 8,124 to 7,024 vehicles. “This reflects improved control of e-hailing operations, with reduced unauthorised activity, unnecessary vehicle circulation and prolonged idling, while maintaining smooth access for genuine passenger pickups.” The enhanced system has increased peak-hour processing capacity from 302 to up to 660 vehicles per hour, enabling faster vehicle turnaround and smoother passenger pickup operations. According to KLIA Passenger Experience senior general manager Abd Hasman Abd Muhimin, the continued enhancements to KLIA’s e-hailing facilities reflect the airport operator’s commitment to improving the overall passenger journey while ensuring airport operations remain orderly, efficient and responsive to evolving needs. “At KLIA, every part of the passenger journey matters, including the experience of getting to and from the airport. By providing passengers with a comfortable indoor space to wait and giving drivers clearer timeframes, we are seeing better compliance, faster vehicle turnover and improved traffic flow.” The upgraded facilities at Terminal 1 include a Licence Plate Recognition system integrated with Passenger Information Display Screens, self-service kiosks, dedicated passenger waiting areas, structured pickup bays and on-ground marshals to assist passengers and facilitate traffic flow. The e-hailing system enables stricter monitoring and access control, helping to ensure only authorised e-hailing vehicles utilise the designated pickup facilities. E-hailing vehicles will continue to be allocated a maximum of 10 minutes at the kerbside pickup area to support better traffic circulation. – Bernama

GEORGE TOWN: Penang wants to position itself as a platform for Chinese and Malaysian companies to jointly develop and scale technologies for the wider Asean market, said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. He said the proposed approach would leverage China’s scale, technology and industrial experience with Penang’s established semiconductor and manufacturing ecosystem, experienced talent and strategic position for Asean. “This is how we turn economic ties into shared competitive advantage,” he said at a reception marking the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China at a hotel in Gurney Drive on Tuesday. He also said the next phase of China-Penang economic relations should create lasting value through technology, skills, stronger companies, new markets and opportunities for the people. Chow said Penang should aim to develop more companies that create AI products, intellectual property and businesses. “As AI reshapes industry, this becomes even more important.” He stressed that this would require closer links between Chinese companies, Malaysian o Plan would leverage Beijing’s scale, industrial experience with local manufacturing ecosystem, talent, strategic position for Asean: CM Ű BY T.C. KHOR

Chow (left) and Zhou attending the reception marking the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China at a hotel in Gurney Drive on Tuesday. – T.C. KHOR/THESUN

and parts. About 90 Chinese companies now operate in the state, including Guangdong Fastrain Technology Malaysia and BYD Electronics. He said the partnership should ultimately be measured not only by the amount of capital moving between China and Malaysia but also the value created for companies, young people and communities in China, Malaysia and across Asean. Meanwhile, in his speech at the same reception, Chinese consul-general in Penang Zhou Youbin said China-Malaysia economic and trade cooperation and people-to-people exchanges continue to produce results, citing more than US$104 billion (RM420 billion) in bilateral trade in the first half of the year and more than 2.65 million visits by Chinese citizens to Malaysia. following day, another 27 students developed symptoms. He stressed that parents and guardians have been advised not to send symptomatic children to schools. He also said the school’s management has been directed to isolate symptomatic students from others. “Parents are encouraged to seek health examinations for their children if symptoms persist or worsen and to consider influenza vaccination through health facilities that provide the service.”

SMEs creating opportunities for joint development and participation in global value chains. He called for stronger links between industry, universities and talent, particularly in AI, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, so that knowledge could be translated into skills and commercial opportunities. He said Penang’s role could be to provide a platform on which Chinese and Malaysian companies develop and scale technologies together for the wider Asean market. Chow said Penang’s existing economic links with China provide a strong foundation for the next phase of cooperation. From January to July, Penang exported RM64 billion to China, accounting for half of Malaysia’s exports to China, with 81% comprising electrical and electronics products and local suppliers, Another 14 students suffered from upper respiratory tract infections and one was identified with conjunctivitis. “As of Tuesday, all students who had been assessed were reported to be in stable condition. The Perak Health Department will continue to monitor the situation, including new cases and laboratory test results, and strengthen control and prevention measures if necessary.” Earlier, Sivanesan said the school sent 57 students to a clinic on Monday, and the

Ipoh students diagnosed with influenza-like illness

Ű BY P. CHANDRA SAGARAN

IPOH: A total of 46 students from a boarding secondary school here were diagnosed with influenza-like illness influenza A cluster on Monday. Perak Human, Resources, Health, Indian Community and National Integration Committee chairman Datuk A. Sivanesan said the cases were detected after Health Department personnel screened 61 students who suffered from the symptoms.

Group disputes state’s legal reasoning on Jelutong reclamation GEORGE TOWN: A residents’ group has pushed back against the Penang government’s claim that legal complications are delaying a decision on the Jelutong landfill rehabilitation project, arguing that the Joint Development Agreement (JDA) itself gives the state a clear way out. grounds of state interest, security or policy. He added that under Clause 18.2, the state itself decides what falls under those grounds. Ganesh said if the state believes ending the deal would trigger compensation or other legal fallout, it should identify which clauses lead to that conclusion and explain its reasoning. Citing Clause 1.1.1, which limits the “Additional Area” to land needed to secure the perimeter for rehabilitation works, Ganesh said the group’s reading of the EIA suggests that nearly all 28ha would go towards processing and recycling excavated waste.

He argued that a waste-processing need does not justify reclamation for security purposes, and urged authorities to approve only what is demonstrably necessary. He also raised concerns over using material recovered from the landfill as reclamation fill – arguing that calling it “recycled” does not establish environmental safety – and called for independent evidence that it is suitable for marine reclamation. The group is pressing for the JDA, including schedules and appendices, to be released.

The Protect Karpal Singh Drive Action Committee, under the Bandar Sri Pinang Pulau Pinang Residents’ Association, wants the state to reject the developer’s proposed 28ha reclamation and hold the project to what it says are the JDA’s actual limits. Committee chairman Dr K. Ganesh said Clause 18.1 of the agreement signed between the state government, the Penang Development Corporation and PLB Engineering, which allows termination on no less than 30 days’ notice whenever the state judges this necessary on the

He also questioned how the reclamation component grew so significantly, stressing that PLB Engineering’s revised 2016 tender included no sea reclamation at all. When the JDA was signed in February 2020, Chow had indicated that up to four additional hectares would be reclaimed for embankment and perimeter wall works. By the time the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was released for public review in February 2025, that figure had risen to 28ha, he said.

THURSDAY | SEPT 17, 2026

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Drop in rainfall predicted as El Nino strengthens

Indonesian man first in M’sia to be jailed for littering JOHOR BAHRU: An Indonesian man has become the first person in Malaysia to receive a jail sentence for discarding a cigarette butt in a public place. Johor Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation director Zainal Fitri Ahmad said the 36-year-old general worker was found to have committed a minor littering offence in the Stulang area last February. He said the man began serving his one-month jail sentence on Aug 28 after failing to pay the RM1,000 fine imposed by the court. “The man will undergo a six-hour Community Service Order (CSO) upon completing his jail sentence,” he said at a press conference after inspecting the implementation of the 50th Series of CSO here on Tuesday. Meanwhile, he said 107 cases resulting in CSOs have been disposed of in court, involving 59 locals and 48 foreign nationals. Zainal Fitri said the cases resulted in total fines of RM71,550, with CSOs ranging between two and 10 hours. He said 3,358 enforcement operations have been carried out in Johor, during which 3,095 Notices of Offence were issued. – Bernama “We also provide the agency’s Mobile Treatment and Rehabilitation Without Borders services to rural areas, helping to overcome logistical barriers often faced by women.” – Bernama Number of female drug abusers rises KOTA BHARU: The number of women detected to be involved in drug abuse in the country has increased from 8,638 in 2024 to 8,926 last year. National Anti-Drug Agency director-general Datuk Ruslin Jusoh said youths aged between 19 and 39 recorded the highest number of cases, involving 6,193 individuals, followed by 2,567 adults aged between 40 and 59, and 166 teenagers. “Amphetamine-type stimulants were the most widely abused substances among women, involving 7,588 individuals, followed by opiates at 762, ganja at 138, psychotropic pills at 119 and other substances, including ketum and cocaine at 319.” He said a report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) found that women face more complex challenges than men in accessing treatment. “Although statistics show that women accounted for a lower percentage of cases at 4.7% compared with men at 95.3% last year, they often face greater social, financial and emotional challenges in seeking treatment. “Society tends to view addiction among women as a greater moral failure compared with men. “The cost of treatment, such as transportation to the agency’s facilities, can be a heavy burden. UNODC reported that women may struggle to seek treatment if their partners are also drug users who control their movements or prevent them from seeking change.” He added that following amendments to the Drug Dependants and Substance Abusers (Treatment and Rehabilitation) Act 1983, which came into force on Aug 22, 2025, women can now voluntarily seek community-based treatment under the supervision of rehabilitation officers or at Narcotics Addiction Rehabilitation Centres free of charge.

he made on Bernama Radio’s Fokus 30 podcast on Sept 10, when he said parts of Malaysia could see temperatures above 40°C next year if the phenomenon strengthens as forecast. He emphasised that temperatures could potentially surpass the national record of 40.1°C in Chuping, Perlis during the 1997-1998 Super El Nino, and reach 40.5°C or even 41°C in some places. On the possibility of encountering 40°C heat, Mohd Hisham said such readings could not be ruled out if the current El Nino reaches very strong levels. However, he said they would more likely be localised, not nationwide. “However, under a strong El Nino, higher temperatures and hotter-than-usual conditions could happen more widely in Malaysia,” he noted. Mohd Hisham said Malaysia’s highest temprature of 40.1°C in Chuping on April 9, 1998 and its second highest reading of 39.3°C at Batu Embun in Jerantut, Pahang on April 10, 2016 were both recorded during Super El Nino episodes. He said apart from heat, prolonged rainfall reduction could strain water resources if catchment areas receive less rain and dam inflows decline. “Increasingly dry soil and vegetation could increase the risk of forest and peat fires. The risk of haze could also rise if hot and dry conditions are accompanied by an increase in fires in the country or the region. “For transboundary haze, the level of impact would depend on the location and scale of the fires, as well as wind conditions that carry smoke towards Malaysia.”

o Hotter conditions could be more noticeable in northern and inland parts of the peninsula, Sabah and Sarawak

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN

warm, changing air movement and rain formation across the region. For Malaysia, this could reduce cloud formation and rainfall in some areas, increase the number of days without rain, and lead to hotter weather, longer dry spells and higher drought risk. He stressed that Super El Nino refers to a very strong event, when the Relative Oceanic Nino Index reaches 2°C or more. “Based on the latest projections from international climate monitoring and research centres, the intensity of El Nino is almost certain to reach the very strong, or super, level by the end of this year, with the probability approaching 100%. “Current projections also show that the intensity of this El Nino episode would exceed the strength of El Nino episodes recorded since 1950, with a probability of 75%.” He said the current episode could match or exceed the 1997-1998 and 2015-2016 Super El Nino events, both of which brought significant impacts to Malaysia. “During those episodes, Malaysia experienced hotter and drier conditions than usual, with significant rainfall reduction in several areas. “The country also faced serious local and transboundary haze, as well as pressure on water resources and supply.” The latest clarification expands on remarks

PETALING JAYA: Southern Peninsular Malaysia and parts of Sarawak are likely to see rainfall drop as El Nino strengthens, with Sabah following from October and the northern peninsula facing sharper dry conditions early next year, the Meteorological Department said. Its director-general Dr Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip said the heat risk would come later, near the end of the 2026-2027 northeast monsoon from January to March next year and possibly lasting until May. He said hotter conditions could be more noticeable in northern and inland parts of the peninsula, as well as inland areas in Sabah and Sarawak. “If El Nino this time develops to a very strong level as projected, several areas are expected to receive rainfall that is lower than average during certain months.” He elaborated that the southern peninsula could see lower-than-average rainfall in September and October, while eastern and southern Sarawak could be affected in September and Sabah from October onwards. He added that in the northern peninsula, a more significant rainfall reduction is projected to start in early 2027. On the El Nino phenomenon, Mohd Hisham explained that it happens when the tropical Pacific Ocean becomes unusually Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia occupational health professor Prof Dr Rosnah ismail said persistent high temperatures, humidity and prolonged heatwaves could compound workers’ internal body heat, especially among those doing strenuous tasks outdoors or in poorly ventilated workplaces. She explained that those at risk include construction workers, agricultural labourers, utility workers, street sweepers, waste collectors, e-hailing riders and indoor industrial workers in hot or enclosed facilities. “Exertional heat stroke is a medical emergency as it can affect healthy individuals who engage in strenuous work in hot or humid weather. “It happens when the body’s thermoregulatory centre fails, causing body temperature to rise rapidly and the body to be unable to cool down,” said Rosnah, who is also a public health medicine specialist at the university’s Public Health Medicine Department. She said core body temprature could rise rapidly to 41.1°C or higher within 15 minutes, leading to confusion, slurred speech, seizures or loss of consciousness. “Without immediate aggressive cooling, it could lead to permanent disability or death.” She added that workers should not wait until they feel thirsty before drinking water, as thirst is a delayed sign of dehydration. “By the time the brain triggers the sensation, the body has already lost between 1% and 2% of its normal fluid volume. “A body water loss of just 2% impairs essential physiological functions while a 3% loss significantly increases the risk of severe muscle cramps and exertional heatstroke.”

Dangers of heat stress highlighted to workers PETALING JAYA: Heat stress could turn dangerous within minutes for outdoor and manual workers during a strong El Nino, with employers urged to treat extreme heat as an occupational hazard.

Rosnah said employers

should conduct heat-stress risk assessments, provide shade, improve ventilation and schedule strenuous work during cooler hours. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/ THESUN

barriers, lack of heat acclimatisation upon arrival, hesitation to report symptoms due to job security concerns, or poor living conditions. “Workers performing heavy physical labour while fasting also face higher risk because of fluid and electrolyte restriction during daylight hours,” she noted. Rosnah added that employers should conduct heat-stress risk assessments, provide shade, improve ventilation and schedule strenuous work during cooler hours. “Heat safety policies must move beyond merely providing water breaks. Employers should encourage scheduled consumption of plain water and ensure heat acclimatisation for new or returning workers. “Workers should be trained to identify the earliest symptoms of heat-related illness and signs of dehydration. Briefings should also be mandatory before any outdoor or hot work.” – By Faiz Ruzman

Rosnah said warning signs must be detected early as heat strain can escalate quickly, stressing that affected workers may not realise their condition is worsening. Early signs include dry lips and tongue, dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, extreme fatigue, headache, heavy sweating and pale or clammy skin. Emergency signs include hot and dry skin, confusion, slurred speech, erratic behaviour, seizures, loss of consciousness as well as a racing pulse. “High-risk groups include outdoor and heavy-labour workers, migrant workers, ageing workers above 50 years old, pregnant women and workers with pre-existing chronic conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes or chronic kidney disease,” she said. “Migrant workers are often disproportionately vulnerable due to language

THURSDAY | SEPT 17, 2026

6

‘Democracy needs dissent’

o Thirty years after death of physician and politician Tan Chee Khoon, family and former colleagues say his

defence of debate and accountability remains relevant

Ű BY T.C. KHOR

PETALING JAYA: Thirty years after the death of physician-turned-politician Tan Sri Dr Tan Chee Khoon, his family is observing the Malaysia Day period by urging the country to remember a principle he spent his life defending. They say Tan, once dubbed Mr Opposition, believed that dissent is not a threat to democracy but is one of its foundations. For his youngest daughter, Tan Poh Lai, the anniversary is a chance to look beyond her father’s own story. “Today, we feature one son but there are many sons and many daughters of Merdeka. There are still many more who contributed to the formation and birth of this country,” she said. Chee Khoon was among them. He believed that holding the goverment to account was not opposition for its own sake but the check and balance that parliamentary democracy required. Three decades after his death, that conviction still offers a reminder that patriotism does not always mean agreeing with those in power. As Malaysians marked Malaysia Day yesterday, it was also a timely reminder of the role debate and disagreement play in nation-building. Merdeka, after all, was founded on ideals of freedom, justice, democracy and harmony. The seven cries of “Merdeka!” by Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj remain one of the defining images of the nation’s birth. The National Archives describes the new Federation of Malaya as a democratic, independent and sovereign country based on freedom and justice, committed to the welfare of its people and harmony among its races. Chee Khoon lived those principles in his own way. In the early years after Merdeka, political differences were not always drawn along racial lines. The Socialist Front brought together the Labour Party of Malaya, whose membership was largely non-Malay, and Parti Rakyat, which was predominantly Malay. In Penang, the Labour Party grew into a major political force, taking control of the George Town City Council in the December 1957 local elections. By the 1961 local elections, the Socialist Front held 13 of the council’s 14 seats. Local government elections were suspended in 1965 during the Indonesia-Malaysia Confrontation, ending that avenue of electoral contest. Chee Khoon entered Parliament in 1964 as a Labour Party candidate, winning the Batu seat and becoming Leader of the Opposition. He and Lim Kean Siew were the only two Labour MPs returned that year, after government arrests and ISA detentions had severely weakened the Socialist Front. In 1969, he was elected under Gerakan before later forming Pekemas. A stroke in 1976 ended his active political career and he did not contest the 1978 general election. Pekemas was dissolved in 1982. Leaving Parliament, however, did not mean leaving public life. In 1977, Nanyang, and later

Poh Lai with former Penang chief minister Tan Sri Koh Tsu Koon. Poh Lai said Malaysians needed to come together to discuss the ideals that shaped Merdeka and how relevant they are today. – T.C. KHOR/THESUN

Favour”, was organised by Penang Institute and Aliran, with Poh Lai and Loh as speakers. Poh Lai said Malaysians needed to come together to discuss the ideals that shaped Merdeka, “to see how we can practise it, or how it is relevant to today”. Many Malaysians, she said, did not know who her father was. But those who did know Chee Khoon remember the force of his convictions. “He believed that the opposition was a very worthy part of democracy, and dissent was a very honourable thing. And he lived his life that way.” Thirty years after his death, as Malaysians once again gather to celebrate the country they share, his story is a reminder that freedom, justice, democracy and harmony – the ideals of Merdeka – are built not only in agreement, but in the willingness to disagree well. Because Merdeka was never just about seven cries of “Merdeka!” It was also about what Malaysians would do with the freedom that followed.

who stood for multiracialism, democracy, the rule of law and justice for all. It also remembered him as a man of faith, committed to working with people of other religions to build peace and justice. 0 A very different type of politics Economist Prof Jomo Kwame Sundaram, who knew Chee Khoon through the political and intellectual circles around Aliran in the 1980s, said his withdrawal from active politics may have contributed to his ideals being discussed less in public life. “Perhaps this did affect, did make a difference, but there were other factors as well,“ he told theSun on the sidelines of the Penang Peace Dialogue. The bigger shift, he said, was that Malaysian politics itself had changed after 1969. Jomo noted that both the Socialist Front and the ruling Alliance were multi-ethnic. What set them apart was ideology, not race. Chinese activists within the Socialist Front had even consciously promoted Malay as the common national language, he said. “The disputes were ideological, over questions of policy, what kinds of policies to have in this country.” The politics of Chee Khoon’s era was “a very different type of politics” — the Socialist Front’s opposition to the Alliance government was rooted largely in ideology and policy, Jomo said, “rather than the kinds of issues right now, which tend to be ethnic issues”. 0 What does Merdeka mean now? For Poh Lai, that legacy should not remain confined to history books. It was the idea behind a three-city Merdeka roadshow that began in Kuala Lumpur on Aug 23, followed by Ipoh on Sept 3 and Penang on Sept 5. The Penang forum, “Merdeka, Multiracialism and Dissent, Without Fear or

The Star, invited him to write a regular column, “Without Fear or Favour”, through which he continued to comment on political developments long after his own seat was gone. In 1980, the then Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ahmad Shah conferred on him the PSM, which carries the title Tan Sri. 0 Opening a window to Sabah Political scientist Dr Francis Loh Kok Wah, who first met Chee Khoon in the late 1970s and came to know him through Aliran, recalled the breadth of his public life after politics. Alternative sources of news were limited at the time, he said. “There was very limited access to alternative news. Aliran was one of the few alternative voices then, making Chee Khoon’s ‘Without Fear or Favour’ columns an important source of political commentary.” One issue Loh found particularly significant was Chee Khoon’s exposure of the authoritarian rule of then Sabah chief minister Harris Salleh, including his treatment of Pairin Kitingan and the Kadazan-Dusun community. “Dr Tan’s columns about this entire episode awakened a whole generation of us in Semenanjung about goings-on in Sabah.” The columns, later collected in A Triumph for Democracy, also shaped Loh’s own path. After reading them and consulting Chee Khoon, he decided to visit Sabah – the start of two decades of research and writing on Sabah politics, much of which he shared with Chee Khoon. Chee Khoon remained involved with Aliran, becoming the first chairman of its Trust Board in 1986, a post he held until 1994. In 1996, Aliran devoted an entire issue of Aliran Monthly to commemorating his life, describing him as a Malaysian patriot and servant of the people – a champion of the poor

THURSDAY | SEPT 17, 2026

7

Prabowo loyalist linked to ouster

Suahasil, in a WhatsApp message to senior ministry officials on Friday seen by Reuters, said he had advised Purbaya to postpone the ceremony until concerns of the tax and customs chiefs were addressed. Suahasil did not respond to Reuters’ request for comment. The customs office said on Tuesday it was awaiting direction from the new finance minister on the appointments. While the falling out with Djaka proved to be the decisive one, it was not the only fractious relationship Purbaya had with top officials. He clashed with Bank Indonesia’s previous governor Perry Warjiyo over his policy of placing government cash in state-owned lenders to support credit. Purbaya was also at odds with Danantara chief Rosan Roeslani after saying the sovereign wealth fund would transfer 120 trillion rupiah (RM27.5 billion) of its profits to help meet this year’s fiscal deficit target. Rosan later said no such plan had been discussed. Prabowo has appointed close allies and several fellow former and active soldiers to top spots in running the government, including Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and his Cabinet secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, who handles all of the president’s agenda. – Reuters

Two sources who heard about it later said Djaka objected to the plan and reported it directly to Prabowo on Friday before the president left for India to attend the BRICS summit. Prabowo returned to Jakarta on Monday. The same day, Purbaya was informed he had been sacked in a call from the president’s spokesperson as he was in the middle of a hearing discussing Prabowo’s 2027 budget plan. Purbaya said on Tuesday, after he handed over to his successor Suahasil Nazara in a terse ceremony, that an internal reshuffle played a part in his sacking, but did not explain further. He also said he was following Prabowo’s policies. The first source also said Bimo and Purbaya had differences over tax refunds. Bimo supported timely repayments, while Purbaya tended to delay refunds, frequently arguing companies’ claims should be closely scrutinised to prevent leakages in state revenue. A third source close to Purbaya said the minister had justified the rotation decision to Prabowo as being necessary to improve revenue collection by both agencies. But when asked about the matter just after his appointment on Monday, Suahasil, a veteran technocrat who was promoted from a deputy finance minister, told reporters he would review all the appointments.

Djaka and the head of the tax department, Bimo Wijayanto, objected to the job rotation, the sources said, and Djaka took his complaints directly to Prabowo. Both officials report to the finance minister but were handpicked by Prabowo, the first source said. Customs chief Djaka was a member of the president’s special forces team during military service. One source said Djaka, who according to media reports was found guilty in a military court of kidnapping and forcibly disappearing rights activists in the 1990s, enjoys direct access to Prabowo. Purbaya, according to the same source, needed approval from the president’s inner circle to secure meetings. Djaka denied on Tuesday there was any conflict preceding the sacking. Bimo and the presidential office did not respond to requests for comment. Prabowo has previously said a successful leader must choose “the best” people for the team, not because of family, friendship or crony ties. The dispute peaked at an inauguration ceremony last Thursday for hundreds of officials across senior and middle-management ranks. Purbaya spoke on the occasion and said the rotation was based on professional assessments as well as consultation with relevant officials.

129 STILL MISSING IN JAVA SEA BANJARMASIN: Desperation and frustration are growing among families of the 129 people still missing following the weekend capsizing of a ship in Java Sea, as persistent heavy seas and bad weather continue to restrict search-and-rescue operations. The Virgo Transport 8 was carrying 243 people on a 20-hour voyage from Surabaya to Banjarmasin when it capsized in bad weather on Sunday. The official death toll stood at six people with 108 rescued and 129 unaccounted for. The Coast Guard and Navy have been unable to launch underwater search operations because of waves of up to 2.5m and strong winds near the capsized vessel, I Putu Sudayana, the head of Banjarmasin’s rescue agency, told Reuters. EIGHT HELD IN BRIBERY CASE JAKARTA: Indonesia’s anti-graft agency said it has detained eight people, including the president director of property developer Summarecon Agung and government officials, in an alleged bribery case involving land-use rights. Electronic evidence and cash in rupiah and foreign currencies worth a combined 106.3 billion rupiah (RM24.3 million) were seized by the agency, which is known as KPK, acting director of investigations Achmad Taufik Husein said late on Tuesday. The agency had detained the eight suspects for an initial 20 days at KPK detention facilities in Jakarta, he said. Summarecon Agung did not respond to a request for comment. Achmad said the casewas related to an application to extend a right-to-build title for land managed by Summarecon in Bogor, West Java. – Reuters NORWAY RAIDS TELENOR HQ OSLO: Norwegian authorities said they had carried out a search at the headquarters of Norwegian telecoms operator Telenor, which is suspected of complicity in crimes against humanity in Myanmar. Customers of the group’s former Myanmar subsidiary, Telenor Myanmar (TML), sued the operator earlier this year for sharing their sensitive personal data with the government. They argued that the information was used to identify, arrest and prosecute activists. Norway’s National Criminal Investigation Service (Kripos) and the interior security service, PST, had launched separate investigations into Telenor. Kripos was investigating Telenor over suspicions of complicity in crimes against humanity. PST was investigating a possible sanctions violation. – AFP The three sources said a clash between Purbaya and customs and excise chief Djaka Budhi Utama erupted over the reshuffling of hundreds of officials at the Finance Ministry, most of them in the tax and customs directorates. JAKARTA: President Prabowo Subianto sacked finance minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa after he clashed with a top ministry official who served on Prabowo’s former special forces team, three government sources said. Analysts and investors welcomed the replacing of Purbaya as a move that would help restore confidence in the US$1.5 trillion (RM6.1 trillion) G20 economy after months of uncertain policy-making. But it was bureaucratic infighting that led Prabowo to finally oust the minister, said people familiar with the matter. The episode is another example of Prabowo’s personal style of governance, with the former special forces commander making decisions based on feedback more from his trusted inner circle and loyalists than professionals and experts, analysts say. o Proposed staff reshuffle sparked clash, say sources

Duterte at the ICC yesterday. – REUTERSPIC

BR I E F S

Duterte makes first in-person ICC appearance THE HAGUE: Former Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte appeared in person at the International Criminal Court for the first time yesterday, as he faces charges over his “war on drugs” that killed thousands. Duterte faces three counts of crimes against humanity, with prosecutors alleging his involvement in at least 76 murders between 2013 and 2018 during his offensive against drug users and sellers. Korner has set Nov 30 as the start date of the trial.

Korner chided the prosecution for “wholesale dumping”of documents and urged the parties to work together to reduce the size of the case file. Relatives of some of those killed in the anti drugs campaign welcomed Duterte’s appearance in court. Randy Delos Santos, 48, an uncle of Kian Delos Santos, a teenager killed by police in August 2017, when Duterte was president, said: “Of course, we are very happy that he is now able to attend in person. “We hope that his being physically fit will help speed up the hearings,” Santos told AFP in Manila. In a submission published on Tuesday, Duterte’s lawyers said he suffered from “significant memory impairment that prevents him from retaining recent information and reliably accessing memories”. Judges are weighing whether he is mentally fit to be tried and have ordered a medical assessment by three experts. That assessment has not been made public but Duterte’s defence cited the results of examinations contained in the report. – AFP

The 81-year-old had appeared by video link when he was first brought to the court in The Hague, but had since skipped hearings, with his defence team saying he was too ill. Dressed in a dark suit and white shirt with no tie, the former president sat with his chin resting on his hands as proceedings opened. Judge Joanna Korner noted his appearance and said he could leave the court at any time without seeking permission from the bench. But he stayed throughout the hearing, which lasted one hour and 15 minutes, showing no emotion and seeming to follow proceedings through headphones. Duterte did not speak during the hearing but waved at the public gallery when the judge had left the courtroom at the end. He is the first Asian former head of state to face trial at the ICC, which prosecutes individuals for the world’s worst crimes such as war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The only time Duterte had been seen since his arrest in March 2025 was an initial appearance via video, where he seemed confused and tired, his speech barely audible. Yestersday’s hearing was a “status hearing” for the parties and the judge to fix logistical details. Lawyers clashed over evidence filed by the prosecution, which they said was around 15,000 pieces but the defence put at more than 62,000 documents. “It’s quite enormous. It’s impossible,” said defence lawyer Peter Haynes. “We haven’t got a prayer of reading” such a mountain of documents before the trial starts, said Haynes. “The current state of the case is a mess. If I had a younger, healthier client, I would invite you to put back the trial by six months ... but I don’t,” said Duterte’s lawyer.