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Psychologist warns animal sexual abuse signals human risk

Perpetrators often suffer from severe empathy deficits and trauma.

Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY M’sia still saddled with RM8.9b in 1MDB liabilities: Anwar

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SCAN ME No. 9310 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

Boosting women’s political representation uphill task Nancy Shukri says govt eyes women-only seats but faces leadership hurdles. Boosting women’s

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PM dismisses claims that all debts related to the multi-billion dollar scandal fully settled.

ECRL staff member Ani Azureen Zainuddin showing the newly announced economy class fares from Gombak to East Coast destinations, which start as low as RM125 for transit and RM147 for express services to Kota Bharu. – BERNAMAPIC

Hello, East Coast Report on h page 3 ECRL fares from Gombak to Kota Bharu to start at RM125; Cabinet approves airline-style dynamic pricing, allowing ticket costs to vary based on demand, timing and seat availability.

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N. Sembilan DKU files contempt bid against MB, 16 others SEREMBAN: The Dewan Keadilan dan Undang (DKU) Negeri Sembilan has applied to the High Court here for leave to commence contempt proceedings against Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim and 16 others over alleged breaches of an injunction concerning the administration and affairs of the DKU. The applications, filed on Oct 15 by the DKU and its secretary Raja Norazli Raja Nordin, named Ismail, 10 former State Executive Council members and six plaintiffs in a separate originating summons seeking the minutes of a special DKU sitting held on April 17, Bernama reported. The six plaintiffs are Datuk Mubarak Thahak, Datuk Maarof Mat Rashad, Datuk Abd Rahim Yasin, Datuk Muhammed Abdullah, Tunku Besar Tampin Tunku Syed Razman Tunku Syed Idrus Al-Qadri and Datuk Seri Badarudin Abdul Khalid. The applicants alleged that the 17 individuals breached or acted in a manner that undermined the purpose of an ad interim injunction granted by the High Court on June 5. The injunction restrains the six plaintiffs from making or implementing decisions concerning the DKU’s affairs and from taking steps to alter or interfere with the status quo as at May 21. The applicants alleged that the six continued to give effect to a purported proclamation dated April 19 and a purported change in the office of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar through public statements between Sept 5 and Oct 11. They further allege that Ismail and the 10 took steps to implement the purported proclamation.

ROYAL CONSENT ... His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, receiving the diplomatic credentials of Namibia’s High Commissioner to Malaysia Christine Hoebes during a ceremony at Istana Negara in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

‘Nation still strapped with RM8.9b in 1MDB liabilities’ o Although overall debt increased partly because of existing repayment obligations, new borrowings declining despite current economic conditions, says Anwar

“As we can generally see, they are declining despite the current economic conditions and the substantial debt repayments that still have to be made.” Finance Ministry figures released on Sept 13 showed that the government’s total 1MDB related obligations stood at RM51.4 billion, of which RM42.5 billion had been paid, leaving RM8.9 billion outstanding. The remaining liabilities comprise RM5 billion in principal and RM3.9 billion in interest under government-guaranteed Islamic medium term notes, with payments extending to 2039. In a written parliamentary reply on Oct 7, the ministry said RM42.5 billion had been paid as of Aug 31, covering principal repayments, interest, legal fees and operational costs. The government had also recovered RM31.3 billion through asset recovery efforts. Based on the total obligations and funds recovered, the government would still face an estimated net financial burden of RM20.1 billion if no further assets were recovered. The ministry said efforts to recover additional assets would continue through legal action and international cooperation.

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

assembly yesterday. Anwar, who is also Finance minister, acknowledged that Malaysia’s overall debt had increased partly because of existing repayment obligations but stressed that new borrowings are declining. “The overall debt has increased. That’s true because old debts have to be paid. But new borrowings, that is what matters.

scandal had been settled. He said the government continues to shoulder the financial obligations arising from 1MDB while making efforts to strengthen fiscal management and rein in new borrowings. “Some say all the 1MDB debts have been paid. I don’t know where they got that from, or what kitab (book) they read. That is not true,” he said at the Finance Ministry’s monthly

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia still faces RM8.9 billion in outstanding 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) liabilities, with interest payments continuing to weigh on public finances, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, dismissing claims that all debts linked to the

Public service delays, leakages can thwart efforts to cut living costs: PM PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has warned that delays and leakages in the public service could undermine Budget 2027’s efforts to ease the cost of living as its success depends on effective implementation. should not happen. When economic conditions are affected, the deficit should not fall. But we can do it because of (sound) economic management.” Under Budget 2027, the government projects the fiscal deficit to narrow from 3.6% of GDP this year to 3.3% next year, with economic growth forecast at between 4.2% and 5.2% in 2027. living costs. Anwar criticised those questioning Budget 2027 without examining its figures, using the haze affecting the country to make his point. must be matched by stronger accountability. “I want them to work hard. I want them to avoid leakages. I want them to stop corrupt practices. “So I must be fair to them.” He said economic growth, investment and technological advancement must translate into better living standards.

“The haze is in the air but Budget 2027 is not shrouded in haze. The problem is that people do not read. “If they read it, the figures and data are clear. They were prepared very carefully.” Turning to public service delivery, he criticised slow administrative processes. “Work is still sluggish, still slow. A letter that can be answered in one day takes two weeks. That is a disease for the country.” He said the responsibility for improving efficiency rests with the entire public service, from the Treasury secretary-general to directors-general and department heads who must ensure that their duties are carried out with integrity. He added that the government had committed an additional RM18 billion for public sector salary adjustments, stressing that better remuneration

With fuel subsidies estimated to cost RM40 billion annually and allocations for cash and basic needs assistance rising to RM15 billion, Anwar said ministries and government agencies must ensure that public funds reach those who need them. “The test is not in the policies nor in how impressive the framework looks but in our ability to implement them sincerely. That is the test,” he said at the Finance Ministry’s monthly assembly yesterday. He said that due to sound economic management, Malaysia could sustain economic growth in 2027 while narrowing fiscal deficit despite external pressures. “Look, we can still expand the economy from 2026 to 2027 while the fiscal deficit declines. “Normally, according to economic theory, that

He added that efforts to address low wages, high housing rents and rising prices of essential goods should prioritise low-income earners and gig workers. Anwar called for a more balanced distribution of development funds among states, particularly those with lower revenue but greater needs in poverty eradication, flood mitigation and basic infrastructure. He expressed confidence that Malaysia could strengthen its economy and improve public wellbeing beyond current projections over the next two to three years, provided that the government machinery focused on effective implementation. – BY FAIZ RUZMAN

Anwar said fuel subsidies are estimated to cost RM40 billion annually to keep RON95 petrol at RM1.99 per litre. “Is this necessary? In my view, it is necessary to ease the people’s burden.” However, he stressed the need to target subsidies well to reduce leakages and wastage, acknowledging that subsidy rationalisation is politically challenging and requires courage. He also cited the increase in allocations for Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah from RM8 billion to RM15 billion, alongside RM1,000 in assistance for each taxi driver funded through proceeds from new vehicle registration numbers, as part of efforts to ease

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East Coast Rail Link services to begin in December

RM1,000, depending on demand and booking dates. The ECRL offers a different proposition: passengers are allowed to rest during the journey instead of spending hours behind the wheel. Its express service is expected to complete the Gombak-Kota Bharu journey in about four hours, potentially sparing passengers prolonged traffic delays and the fatigue of driving long distances. For families returning to their hometowns, the railway could offer a more comfortable and predictable journey, allowing them to spend time together rather than concentrate on navigating congested highways. However, the cost could be a deciding factor, particularly for larger families. – By Harith Kamal M’sians weigh in on train travel PETALING JAYA: For some East Coast travellers, getting home for Hari Raya means enduring exhausting bus rides, hours behind the wheel and the uncertainty of festive traffic, making the prospect of a more comfortable journey worth paying for. As the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) prepares to begin passenger services, travellers are weighing the cost of train tickets against the comfort, convenience and peace of mind that rail travel could offer. For Kelantanese Faiz Ruzman, 26, the appeal is not just about reaching home, but also avoiding another exhausting journey on congested highways. “I think the RM125 ECRL fare is relatively affordable compared with flight tickets, which could cost RM200 to RM300 one-way during normal periods and reach RM500 during peak seasons. “For me, RM120 to RM150 is still reasonable, especially compared with return flights that could cost almost RM1,000.” Faiz expressed a preference for public transport, saying he was reluctant to drive long distances following recent vehicle problems, including a flat tyre and a suspected engine leak. He recalled a gruelling bus journey to Kelantan on the eve of Hari Raya two years ago, when severe congestion along the Karak Highway left him enduring 12 to 14 hours on the road. “It was very uncomfortable being stuck on a bus for so long. Hopefully, I can try the ECRL during the next festive season, depending on ticket availability.” He added that he would consider paying higher fares during peak seasons, although buses costing RM60 to RM70 one-way would remain an option for travellers on tighter budgets. For Kuala Terengganu native Tina Majid, 55, who now lives in Subang Jaya, the prospect of avoiding a tiring drive is another reason to consider the railway. While she expressed belief that fares below RM100 would be more reasonable for regular journeys, she said she would willingly pay RM110 during festive periods to avoid spending eight or nine hours behind the wheel. “Considering my age, I also feel it would be safer and less tiring than driving myself over long distances,” she said, adding that rail travel would also reduce petrol and toll expenses. For student Nurraina Mohd Yousof, 21, who is studying in Terengganu, the decision comes down to whether travelling home could fit within her limited budget.– By Harith Kamal

readiness and emergency response procedures. “We will simulate all the cases during trial operations. “We do have an emergency response plan for every situation and every case that could happen during actual ECRL operations.” Darwis said about 764 employees had joined ECRL Operation Sdn Bhd, including 208 personnel who underwent training in China. He added that the railway would initially deploy 10 electric multiple unit train sets capable of speeds of up to 160kph, operating 12 daily services from Monday to Thursday and 16 from Friday to Sunday. He also said about 2.2 million passenger seats are planned for 2027. Darwis said the RM52.3 billion investment should not be assessed solely through passenger revenue, as freight operations and economic development along the alignment would also contribute to its long-term sustainability.

senior citizens aged 60 and above, persons with disabilities and government pensioners, adding that students aged 13 to 24 will receive a 40% discount. He also said ticket sales are scheduled to begin in November through the official ECRL website, with fares for journeys between individual stations also to be announced then. Darwis said construction across the ECRL alignment, spanning Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and Selangor, had reached 98.16% as of October. He added that the trains have accumulated more than 50,000km in test runs since Aug 25, including a non-stop journey from Gombak to Kota Bharu completed in under three hours and 30 minutes. He also said fault-free running tests are scheduled to begin on Oct 23, followed by trial operations throughout November to assess operational

o Dynamic pricing allows passengers choice between ticket prices, journey times: CEO

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Bharu journey, while the mid-range fare for the transit service was RM156 in either direction. “Our mid-range fare for the Transit service between Kota Bharu and Gombak, in either direction, is RM156. “So it can go higher than that, depending on the time of purchase and the season.” On concerns over potential fare increases during festive periods, he said the pricing framework included an intervention mechanism to prevent excessive increases and keep fares within a reasonable range. However, he did not specify a maximum fare or confirm whether a formal price ceiling would be imposed. Darwis said the government has approved a 50% fare discount for children aged two to 12, Malaysian

GOMBAK: East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) passengers can travel from Gombak to Kota Bharu for as little as RM125 one-way when commercial services begin in December, with express and transit fares varying according to demand, travel periods and seat availability. Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL) CEO Datuk Seri Darwis Abdul Razak said the Cabinet-approved fare structure offers economy-class transit and express services, giving passengers a choice between ticket prices and journey times. The starting one-way fares from Gombak are: 0 Kota Bharu (523km) : RM125 for transit and RM147 for express, with the latter taking about four hours. 0 Kuala Terengganu (378km) : RM95 for transit and RM110 for express, with journey times of three hours and 51 minutes and two hours and 54 minutes respectively. 0 KotaSAS, near Kuantan (209km) : RM60 for transit and RM68 for express, with journey times of two hours and five minutes and one hour and 27 minutes respectively. The same starting fares apply to journeys in the opposite direction. Darwis said the dynamic pricing mechanism, approved by the Cabinet on Oct 16, would allow fares to fluctuate according to travel periods, passenger demand and seat availability, similar to pricing practices in the aviation industry. “The concept is almost similar to that used in the aviation industry. “Passengers who plan their journeys earlier or choose certain travel periods have the opportunity to obtain lower fares, subject to ticket availability,” he told a press conference at the ECRL Gombak Integrated Transport Terminal yesterday. He clarified that RM125 was the starting fare for the Gombak-Kota PETALING JAYA: The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) offers travellers a chance to trade hours behind the wheel and festive traffic for a more relaxing journey home, with return tickets for a family of four travelling to Kota Bharu costing RM1,000 at the starting fare, compared with an estimated RM156 in petrol and tolls for the return road trip. With commercial passenger services due to begin in December, the rail link offers an alternative for those willing to pay more for the convenience of travelling without the fatigue of driving long distances, particularly during peak festive periods. Based on subsidised Budi95 petrol at RM1.99 per litre and an illustrative fuel consumption rate of seven litres per 100km, the estimated one-way

Darwis said the trains have accumulated more than 50,000km in test runs since Aug 25, including a non-stop journey from Gombak to Kota Bharu completed in under three hours and 30 minutes. – BERNAMAPIC ECRL offers travellers alternative to long-distance driving

stop-start traffic could also increase fuel consumption. For families travelling with young children and elderly relatives, hours in congested traffic could make the journey physically demanding, leaving motorists exhausted before they even reach home. Express buses remain an affordable alternative, with advertised one-way fares starting at about RM25 for Kuantan and Kuala Terengganu and RM45 for Kota Bharu. However, buses are also vulnerable to highway congestion. Selected Kuala Lumpur-Kota Bharu flights start at about RM100 one-way, although airport transfers, baggage and additional charges could raise the overall cost. During festive periods, return airfares could approach

driving costs are: 0 Kuantan : About RM35 for petrol and RM36 for tolls, totalling RM71 one-way or RM142 return. The journey takes about three-and-a-half hours each way. 0 Kuala Terengganu : About RM61 for petrol and RM56 for tolls, totalling RM117 one-way or RM234 return. The journey takes about five hours. 0 Kota Bharu : About RM61 for petrol and RM17 for tolls via the inland route, totalling RM78 one-way or RM156 return. The journey takes nearly seven hours. An alternative route via Terengganu could cost about RM234 return. The estimates assume a conventional passenger car consuming seven litres of petrol per 100km. Actual costs would vary

according to vehicle type, driving conditions and routes. The figures exclude meals, parking, vehicle maintenance and other incidental expenses. Motorists using less fuel-efficient vehicles or travelling longer distances may also face higher costs. However, during festive periods, time spent on the road could become a bigger burden than a fuel bill. Severe congestion around Gombak, Bentong, Karak and Gua Musang could turn routine journeys into exhausting trips lasting 12 to 20 hours, particularly during the Aidilfitri rush. During last year’s festivities, traffic queues reportedly stretched 15km to 20km along the Gua Musang-Kuala Lipis corridor. Prolonged idling and

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PAC to probe Sabah Pan Borneo Highway project

Dispute over munafik remark sparks 10-minute row KUALA LUMPUR: A dispute over the use of the word munafik (hypocrite) triggered a nearly 10-minute clash between government and opposition MPs in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday, disrupting debate on the Supply Bill 2027. The confrontation erupted when RSN Rayer (PH-Jelutong) invoked Standing Order 36(1) to object to remarks by Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan (PN-Kota Bharu), alleging that the latter had used the term against Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Rayer described the language as inappropriate and offensive in parliamentary proceedings, questioning why Deputy Speaker Alice Lau Kiong Yieng had allowed Takiyuddin to continue without intervening. “It is wrong for MPs to use discourteous language. I heard religious quotations being cited, followed by the word munafik. “Is the deputy speaker going to allow him to use the word munafik against the prime minister and just leave it at that?” he asked. Earlier, Takiyuddin, the Perikatan Nasional chief whip and PAS secretary-general, had cited a hadith on the signs of hypocrisy while discussing the term waad , which Anwar used when presenting Budget 2027. He explained that waad was derived from Arabic meaning promise, as he debated the government’s budget proposals. – By Faiz Ruzman Madani adopted village and school projects must submit regular monitoring reports to the Implementation Coordination Unit, Deputy Finance Minister Liew Chin Tong said. He told the Dewan Rakyat that RM104 million had been channelled to adopted village projects this year, while 781 schools had been approved, 519 of them supported by corporate sponsors. GOVT EXPLORES ELECTRICITY BILL RELIEF BEYOND DECEMBER The government is exploring alternative electricity bill relief beyond December amid concerns that the Electricity Industry Fund (KWIE) may lack sufficient reserves, Deputy Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad said. He told the Dewan Rakyat that the ministry and Energy Commission were discussing automatic protection against surcharge increases and a proposed tiered Automatic Fuel Adjustment mechanism from 2027. ECONOMY MINISTRY STUDYING T15 CLASSIFICATION The Economy Ministry is studying the classification of Malaysia’s top 15% income group (T15), Deputy Finance Minister Liew Chin Tong told the Dewan Rakyat. Responding to Datuk Mumtaz Md Nawi (PN-Tumpat), he said the government had data on middle-income households and hoped to expand the middle class. Mumtaz had sought an update on the study and household assistance eligibility. PATUH SCHEME TO COVER 16 FOOD COURTS NEXT YEAR The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry plans to extend its Patuh trader compliance programme to 16 food courts in 2027, Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Fuziah Salleh said. Responding to Hassan Saad (PN-Baling), she said the locations were selected based on visitor concentration. The programme assesses price displays, honest transactions and verified weighing instruments, with regulatory compliance accounting for 70% of the assessment. AGENCIES NEED TO MONITOR MADANI ADOPTED PROJECTS Government agencies implementing

BR I E F S

o RM10.547b from allocated RM11.153b has been spent but only four of 35 work packages completed, says chairman

public money,“ she said. Mas Ermieyati questioned why monitoring committees at federal and state levels had failed to prevent the problems, adding that delays to Phase 1 had also held up the start of Phases 2 and 3. The committee also noted Sabah’s

more funding is expected to be needed. “How could this have

AT THE DEWAN RAKYAT

happened?” she asked at a press conference in Parliament yesterday. Of the remaining 31 packages, worth RM16.319 billion, nine have been classified as troubled projects, 13 are behind schedule and nine are ahead of schedule, Mas Ermieyati said. The 706km project, initially scheduled for completion by the end of 2021, now has a 2030 completion target. Its overall contract cost has also risen from RM17.910 billion to RM18.394 billion. The investigation follows findings in the Auditor-General’s Report 2/2026, debated in the Dewan Rakyat on Oct 7, which highlighted weaknesses in procurement, contract administration and project monitoring. The findings included 57 variation orders worth RM513.99 million approved beyond permitted authority limits, as well as RM163.64 million in interim payments to contractors and consultants made without formal contractual arrangements. Another RM41.37 million in advance payments for utility works had not been recovered within the stipulated period, while construction on 19 packages began before environmental impact assessment approval was obtained. “PAC does not view this as merely an ordinary delay in physical construction. It involves the integrity of governance and the government’s accountability in managing

proposal to open eight work packages covering 179km in stages before the end of this year. PAC will summon witnesses from the Works Ministry, Public Works Department, Sabah Public Works Department and other relevant agencies as part of its inquiry. Mas Ermieyati said any evidence of misconduct, corruption or abuse of power uncovered during the proceedings could be referred to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission and police for investigation. Earlier, during the morning sitting in the Dewan Rakyat, Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said physical progress across 15 Phase 1A packages stood at 89.54%, against the scheduled 96.23%. He acknowledged problems with contractor performance but rejected suggestions that delays in government payments were to blame, noting that financial progress for the packages had reached 88.78%. “There are contractor issues, yes, I do not deny that,“ he said. Ahmad also cited land acquisition, utility relocation, the Covid-19 pandemic and the termination of the project delivery partner arrangement in 2019 as factors contributing to the delays.

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

KUALA LUMPUR: The Sabah Pan Borneo Highway Phase 1 project has burned through RM10.547 billion, yet contractors have completed just four of its 35 work packages, prompting a Public Accounts Committee (PAC) probe into its spending and prolonged delays. PAC chairman Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin said the inquiry would examine the project’s financial management, governance and construction progress, including how payments were approved despite prolonged delays. She said RM10.547 billion, or 94.6% of the RM11.153 billion disbursed between 2016 and March 31 this year, had been spent, yet only four packages, representing 11.4% of the total, had been completed. “Almost the entire allocation disbursed for this project has been spent, yet only four of the 35 work packages have been completed, and KUALA LUMPUR: Women representation in political decision-making will remain difficult to raise to 30% unless party leaders give more women the opportunity to lead, Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said. She said the government was studying approaches adopted by other countries, including women-only seats, but acknowledged that securing political leaders’ support remained a major hurdle. “We are looking at how other countries do it, including women-only seats. “But we also need the agreement and buy in of political leaders. If political leaders do not give us the opportunity, it will remain difficult,“ she told the Dewan Rakyat. Nancy was responding to a supplementary question from Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa (PH-Sekijang), who asked whether the ministry would revive the proposed Gender Parity in Political Representation Bill, also known as the 30% Project, which has been discussed since 2018. Zaliha said women accounted for fewer than 11% of MPs, down from 14% previously, and questioned the slow progress in political representation despite gains in other areas. Nancy said increasing women’s participation remained a priority under the National Women’s Policy 2025–2030, although achieving the 30% target would not be easy. “We want women to reach the 30% level. But we will not give up. We will continue and look at what other countries are doing,“ she said. She urged women politicians across party lines to work together, adding that the ministry also engaged opposition representatives in its programmes. Earlier, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah (PN-Indera Mahkota) raised concerns about a

‘30% women representation difficult to achieve’

Nancy said increasing women participation remained a priority under the National Women’s Policy 2025-2030, although achieving the 30% target would not be easy. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

year, another 3,375 participants had received mentoring from 78 women leaders, Nancy said. In contrast, women have surpassed the 30% representation target in senior public sector management, with Public Service Department figures showing they held 39.4% of such posts as of December 2025. Saifuddin’s original question concerned progress in implementing the National Women’s Policy, which covers the economy, leadership, safety and wellbeing. Nancy said the ministry monitored implementation twice a year and would conduct a midterm review in 2028. – By Faiz Ruzman

“cycle of glass ceilings” that prevented women from advancing within political parties and after winning elections. Nancy questioned whether those holding party leadership positions were willing to create opportunities for women to advance. “We are not asking for sympathy. We are asking political party leaders to recognise the talent among women in this country,“ she said. She cited Perantis, a programme that helps women demonstrate their leadership potential before panels of professionals. The programme benefited 5,369 women through training and leadership activities involving 125 women leaders in 2024 and 2025. As of August this

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Animal sexual abuse may signal wider risks

S’gor Palace seeks probe into alleged

impersonation SHAH ALAM: The Selangor Palace has called for a thorough investigation into allegations that a person posed as the Raja Muda of Selangor’s personal bodyguard to deceive members of the public in land and luxury car deals. In a statement, the Office of the Sultan of Selangor said it took the allegations seriously and had referred the matter to the police. “The Selangor Palace administration takes this matter seriously and has referred it to the Royal Malaysia Police for a thorough, fair and transparent investigation. “The palace will not protect anyone found to be involved in the case,” it said. The palace urged the public to check with its administration before entering into transactions with anyone claiming to represent or have connections to the royal household. Selangor police chief Datuk Shazeli Kahar confirmed that the Sultan of Selangor’s Security Control Office at Istana Mestika lodged a report on Oct 15. “The report concerns the misuse of the Raja Muda of Selangor’s photograph by the owner of a Threads account, ‘dwan_hamid’, who allegedly posed as the Raja Muda’s aide de-camp (ADC) to deceive members of the public in property and vehicle transactions. “An investigation paper has been opened under Section 420 of the Penal Code, and efforts are under way to trace the suspect,”he said in a statement yesterday. Shazeli advised the public to verify such claims through official channels before making any payments or entering into financial transactions. – Bernama Perhilitan verifies tiger footprints in Gerik IPOH: Perak’s Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) has confirmed finding Malayan tiger footprints on a farm near Gerik, about 2km from the Bintang Hijau Forest Reserve, and is monitoring the area for residents’ safety. Its director Dr Pazil Abdul Patah said personnel from the department’s Gerik district office found the prints during an inspection near Jalan Air Betang–Jalan Kampung Air Panas on Oct 14. “Initial field investigations indicate that the report is credible, as Malayan tiger footprints were indeed found. The orchard is estimated to be about 2km from the Bintang Hijau Forest Reserve,” he said in a statement to Bernama yesterday. Images of the footprints, believed to belong to a Malayan tiger, circulated widely on social media on Oct 14 and raised concern among residents, Bernama reported. Pazil said the department had taken steps to reduce the risk of an encounter and would continue monitoring the area. He advised residents to stay alert, avoid going out alone early in the morning, late in the evening or at night, and keep livestock in secure enclosures. “Our team is conducting regular inspections and monitoring in the area where the footprints were found and its surroundings, while also gathering information from residents and farmers. “The public is also advised not to provoke, approach or attempt to track the animal. Any new sightings should be reported immediately to the department through its official complaint channels,”he said.

vulnerable person. “Rather than viewing it purely as an automatic ‘stepping stone’, clinicians treat it as a critical red flag that a person’s behavioural boundaries, moral compass and impulse controls have already broken down significantly.” Chan said psychological intervention could help reduce repeat offending, but it required a structured forensic risk assessment and specialised treatment rather than standard counselling alone. An assessment should establish whether the behaviour was opportunistic, linked to sexual arousal involving animals or part of broader antisocial conduct, so treatment could be tailored to the person’s risks and needs. Cognitive behavioural therapy and relapse prevention programmes could address attempts to minimise the harm or claim that an animal had been willing, while helping the person develop better impulse control and a plan to prevent further abuse. Treatment could also include exercises to develop empathy and consider the animal’s experience, alongside care for underlying trauma, paraphilic disorders or substance abuse where relevant. “Psychological treatment alone is rarely sufficient without structural safeguards, such as legal bans on animal ownership, proximity restrictions, and close monitoring to ensure compliance,”

he said. His comments follow a call by Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar Malaysia (SAFM) for police and the Veterinary Services Department, with the cooperation of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, to investigate the alleged sexual abuse of a cat. Police have since arrested a man in Pasir Puteh, Kelantan, in connection with the footage, which allegedly shows him abusing the animal at his home. Police chief Saari Yaacob said a report was received on Sunday. The case is being investigated under Section 377 of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. Before the arrest, SAFM had urged police and the Veterinary Services Department, with the cooperation of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, to investigate the allegation and secure relevant digital evidence. “Such allegations must be taken seriously. If proven, the act would constitute a grave form of animal abuse that warrants stern action under Malaysian law,” SAFM president Kalaivanan Ravichandran said in a statement. The association had also urged the authorities to consider Section 29 of the Animal Welfare Act 2015, where applicable.

o Serious problems with empathy and impulse control can raise concern over harm to other vulnerable victims: Expert

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

victimisation might target animals because they could not reject or retaliate, giving the perpetrator a sense of control. Severe physical, emotional or sexual abuse in childhood could disrupt healthy psychosexual development and attachment, he said. In some cases, the behaviour might occur alongside intellectual disabilities, neurocognitive impairments, severe substance intoxication or personality-related problems that affect impulse control and judgement. Chan said the abuse of animals could be a warning sign of diminished empathy, as perpetrators disregarded the animals’ fear, distress and pain. It could also be associated with antisocial or psychopathic traits. He said research into what forensic psychologists call the “violence link” has found associations between animal cruelty and offences against people, including domestic violence, child sexual exploitation and elder abuse. Someone who rationalised harming a vulnerable animal might apply similar thinking to a

PETALING JAYA: Sexual abuse of animals may indicate serious problems with empathy and impulse control and could raise concerns about the risk of harm to other vulnerable victims, including people, a psychologist has warned. International Psychology Centre principal consultant psychologist Dr Edward Chan said such behaviour rarely had a single cause. It could stem from a combination of psychological, developmental and behavioural factors. “From a psychological standpoint, this behaviour rarely exists in a vacuum. It often intersects paraphilic fixations, profound interpersonal deficits, or severe developmental trauma, where an animal becomes an accessible outlet for power, control, or sexual gratification,” he told theSun . Chan said some perpetrators might have a sexual fixation on animals. Others with severe social anxiety, difficulties forming relationships or a history of

All 140 had been blacklisted and

barred from re-entering Malaysia for

periods set by the authorities. – PIC COURTESY OF THE JOHOR IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT

Ű BY THESUN TEAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com 140 foreign detainees sent home from Johor entering Malaysia for periods set by the authorities.

their embassies. The department said travel arrangements, including ticket purchases, could be made directly at the Pekan Nenas Immigration Depot’s service counter without a service charge. For information on repatriation procedures, the public can contact the depot’s Records and Transfer Unit at 07-6993540 or use the Immigration Department’s online enquiry system.

Airport, the Sultan Iskandar Building and the Stulang Laut Ferry Terminal. The department said their sentences were for offences under the Penal Code, the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, the Immigration Act 1959/63, the Immigration Regulations 1963 and other laws. Repatriation costs were paid from the detainees’ savings, contributions from their families or, in some cases, flight tickets funded by

In a statement yesterday, it said Indonesians made up the largest group, with 45 repatriated, followed by 26 Myanmar nationals, 21 Pakistanis and 20 Bangladeshis. The others were 10 Thais, eight Indians, eight Vietnamese and two Singaporeans. They were sent home through Terminals 1 and 2 of KL International

PETALING JAYA: Johor’s Immigration Department repatriated 140 foreign nationals from eight countries through the Pekan Nenas Immigration Depot in the second week of October, after they completed prison sentences for various offences. The department said all 140 had been blacklisted and barred from re

TUESDAY | OCT 20, 2026

6

Batam-Penang flight launched

GEORGE TOWN: Penang’s growing appeal to Indonesian visitors is set to receive a boost with Batik Air launching a direct Batam-Penang service, opening a new air link between two destinations with shared tourism, business and healthcare interests. The thrice-weekly service adds Batam as the fifth Indonesian city with direct flights to Penang, offering greater convenience for travellers while creating fresh opportunities for tourism and medical travel, said State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai. “Indonesia has long been an important part of Penang’s tourism story. It is our number-one source market for international arrivals and also ranks first in direct flight frequency to Penang,” he said at the inaugural flight ceremony at Penang International Airport on Sunday (Oct 18). The inaugural flight, OD359, departed from Batam’s Hang Nadim International Airport at 11.30am local time on Sunday and arrived in Penang at 1.40pm. The return flight, OD358, departed Penang at 10.10am and arrived in Batam at 10.50am local time. The service initially operates on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, connecting Penang with Batam, about 632km away. Published o Thrice-weekly service route boosts regional travel, creates fresh opportunities for international tourism and medical travel sectors: State exco Ű BY T.C. KHOR newsdesk@thesundaily.com

people exchanges in both directions. The potential is backed by strong travel figures. Wong cited 340,274 Indonesian travellers arriving at Penang International Airport via direct international flights between January and November 2025, making Indonesia the state’s largest inbound market. China ranked second with 193,215 arrivals over the same period. Immigration Department figures also showed that Indonesian arrivals at Penang International Airport rose 6.74% to 369,088 in 2024, from 345,786 in 2023. Healthcare is another key draw. Penang’s medical tourism sector treated 527,176 foreign patients at 16 private hospitals in 2025, an increase of 25.94% from 418,608 in 2024. The sector generated about RM1.14 billion in revenue, according to figures reported by Wong in May. These figures cover international patients of all nationalities, not Indonesians alone. Beyond healthcare, Penang offers visitors a mix of heritage, nature and food. Attractions include George Town’s Unesco World Heritage Site and Penang Hill, alongside coastal scenery, cultural sites and local communities across the island and mainland. “Our food reflects the coming together of Malay, Chinese, Indian and Peranakan cultures, offering flavours that may feel familiar to Indonesian visitors while revealing something distinctly Penang,” said Wong. He encouraged visitors to explore more of the state beyond their main reason for travelling, whether for holidays, business, family visits or healthcare. The route also supports tourism initiatives linked to Visit Malaysia 2026, Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026 and Visit Malaysia 2027. Wong said Penang would continue working with its partners to strengthen the state’s presence in Indonesia and ensure the service developed into a sustainable route that benefited both destinations.

Wong and representatives from Batam and Penang’s tourism industry welcoming passengers arriving on the inaugural direct flight from Batam to Penang. – PIC COURTESY OF WONG HON WAI

experience them.” The state will work with airline, travel, hospitality and healthcare partners to develop attractive travel packages, turn interest into bookings and encourage repeat visits, he added. The new connection is expected to make travel more convenient for Indonesians seeking medical treatment in Penang, while also encouraging leisure, business and family visits. It could also spur more Penang residents to visit Batam, supporting tourism and people-to

medical treatment and business. The launch follows a tourism roadshow Wong led to Batam the previous week, during which the Penang delegation met travel industry partners, promoted the state’s attractions and explored ways to draw more visitors from Batam and the surrounding region. “Today, we are delighted to follow that engagement by welcoming this inaugural flight. “The roadshow helped introduce the possibilities. This direct service now makes it easier for travellers to

schedules indicate that the operating days will change to Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from Oct 27. Batam joins Jakarta, Surabaya, Banda Aceh and Medan as Penang’s fifth Indonesian city with direct air connections, strengthening links with a market that is central to the state’s tourism and healthcare sectors. Wong said the route would also improve access to the wider Riau Islands, creating opportunities to attract more visitors for leisure,

TUESDAY | OCT 20, 2026

7

Philippines summons China envoy over remark

Jakarta mulls relocating scrap metal smelters JAKARTA: I ndonesia is considering relocating scrap metal smelters from industrial estates that also host food manufacturers, a senior government official said, after authorities completed a year-long cleanup of a facility contaminated by radioactive Caesium-137. Deputy Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Hanif Faisol Nurofiq said the government was evaluating zoning and relocation measures for smelting operations, including at the Modern Cikande industrial estate, where the Caesium-137 contamination was first discovered. He said the estate’s original zoning plan did not include metal smelting operations, but at least two smelters were built on the site at a later stage. No relocation site has yet been identified. The government announced the end of the emergency operation to handle Caesium-137 contamination linked to imported scrap metal. The incident raised concerns about food safety and led the US to impose stricter import requirements on Indonesian seafood and spices. Authorities said inspections by the nuclear regulator found radiation levels below regulatory limits and the industrial estate has been declared “clean and clear”. Nearly 10,000 people were screened during the response, with traces of Cesium-137 detected in 11 people. All received treatment and no new cases have been detected, said Bara Hasibuan, another official. More than 1,000 metric tonnes of contaminated material remain stored at PT Peter Metal Technology, with the government planning to build an interim storage facility nearby costing about US$4.3 million (RM17.6 million) and expected to be completed next year. Caesium-137 can enter the environment as a result of nuclear tests or accidents like Chernobyl and Fukushima, but it is also used in some industrial applications like oil well logging. – Reuters

o Comments unacceptable, ambassador told

MANILA: The Philippine Foreign Ministry summoned China’s ambassador yesterday to convey Manila’s “serious concern and strong objection” over a statement by the envoy that it said conveyed threats of the use of force. Foreign Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro summoned Ambassador Jing Quan and told him comments he made to media last week were “provocative and unacceptable”, the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement. “The department reserves the right to take further diplomatic action as it deems necessary,” it said. Lazaro told Jing the comments aggravated an already sensitive atmosphere between the two countries and undermined mutual efforts to build understanding and cooperation, the Foreign Ministry said. Sensitive issues should be addressed through established diplomatic channels and bilateral mechanisms that reserve space for dialogue and engagement, she said. Jing was reacting to Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto

Teodoro’s labellingof Beijing as a regional “troublemaker”. Jing said last week that Manila should “feel fortunate” it had a neighbour like China. “If we want to use force, we may easily win. But no, we will not choose force, and we love peace,” he said after giving a speech at a school in Manila. The comments sparked calls by politicians, including at least two sitting senators, for Manila to expel the envoy. Beijing said yesterday that it opposed “some individuals in the Philippines maliciously hyping China-related issues and undermining China-Philippines relations”. “The Philippine side should effectively restrain the irresponsible words and deeds of individual politicians,” Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a regular news conference. Hours earlier, the office of Philippine Senator Erwin Tulfo filed a resolution calling for Jing to be declared persona non grata. Diplomatic squabbles between

Theresa and Jing at the Foreign Ministry in Manila yesterday. – AFPPIC / PHILIPPINE DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS HANDOUT

zone, while Beijing insists it is enforcing the law against vessels that are encroaching on its territory. China’s embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the ambassador being summoned. It last week said Jing had been selectively quoted and his remarks over-interpreted. – Reuters/AFP

China and US ally the Philippines have become more frequent in recent years, typically over standoffs and altercations between rival vessels in the South China Sea, much of which Beijing claims sovereignty over. Manila has accused China’s coast guard of aggressive conduct in the Philippines’ exclusive economic

Cambodia, Thailand agree on trust-building steps PHNOM PENH: Cambodia and Thailand have agreed on trust-building measures during UN backed talks to resolve their overlapping maritime claims in the Gulf of Thailand. press statement posted on its Facebook page on Sunday.

memorandum of understanding on settling maritime boundaries and joint development of resources in the disputed area. The commission has noted that some commitments made previously by the parties have yet to be fully honoured and urged both countries to effectively implement the agreed measures, which it said are vital to advancing the conciliation process. “Among the agreed measures, both parties recognise that they have a right to make statements to protect their legitimate rights or to correct factual misinformation and disinformation,” according to the statement. – Bernama

Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign and International Cooperation Minister Prak Sokhonn led the delegation, while the Thai delegation was headed by Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow. The commission will hold its third meeting with both parties from Nov 24 to 27 in Kuala Lumpur. The first meeting took place in Singapore from Sept 14 to 16 as part of efforts to resolve the prolonged maritime dispute. Cambodia initiated the compulsory conciliation process in June after Thailand revoked a 2001

The second meeting of the Conciliation Commission under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea took place from Oct 14 to 18 at the Peace Palace in The Hague. “Both parties reached agreement on confidence-building measures aimed at fostering mutual trust and confidence and facilitating an equitable and amicable solution in accordance with international law,” Cambodia’s Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ministry said in a

Indonesia hotspots cross 1,000 mark JAKARTA: The number of hotspots across Indonesia more than quadrupled to 1,104 on Sunday, with Kalimantan bearing the brunt as forest and land fires continued to generate smoke and haze. Central Kalimantan

and West Kalimantan are among six priority areas for firefighting operations, alongside South Sumatra, South Kalimantan, Jambi and Riau. “Joint teams continue to tackle forest and land fires through ground firefighting, water bombing, aerial patrols, as well as prevention and control measures in priority areas,” the ministry said. South Sumatra recorded 51 hotspots on Sunday, up from nine on Saturday, while South Kalimantan registered 19, compared with two. Jambi recorded nine after recording none the previous day, while Riau remained at zero. The Transport Ministry said haze had affected 2,458 scheduled domestic flights nationwide between Aug 11 and Oct 17. Civil Aviation Director-General Lukman F Laisa said the disruptions included 1,080 delayed flights, 1,324 cancelled or postponed, 22 diverted to other airports, six forced to return to their departure airports and 26 rescheduled to depart earlier. – Bernama

The Forestry Ministry said the number of forest and land hotspots rose from 270 on Saturday, with Central Kalimantan recording the sharpest increase to 495 hotspots, up from 92 the previous day, while West Kalimantan rose to 174 from 22. The ministry said the sharp increases followed several days of relatively low hotspot counts in Central Kalimantan and West Kalimantan despite continuing firefighting operations. A total of 61 aircraft remained deployed in both provinces, including 44 for water bombing and 17 for aerial patrols and weather modification operations, it said. Air quality deteriorated to very unhealthy and hazardous levels across much of Central Kalimantan, while West, South and East Kalimantan recorded unhealthy to very unhealthy conditions.

A police officer and firefighters toiling away at an oil palm plantation in South Arut, West Kotawaringin Regency, Central Kalimantan province on Sunday. – REUTERSPIC