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GISBH, subsidiaries have never paid tithe, says zakat board

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Selangor govt takes firm action by ordering seizure of company assets and closure of all its business premises in state.

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‘Reinstate panel against apartheid’

Delivering Malaysian statement at UN General Assembly, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan also urges Security Council to invoke Chapter 7 powers to impose immediate arms embargo on Israel. Delivering Malaysian statement at UN General Assembly

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Kluang drawing visitors with ‘coffee culture’ Town features numerous shops offering variety of brews that rival other establishments in terms of aroma and taste. More Penang-China collaboration to come State looking forward to cooperation in renewable energy, smart city initiatives and innovation: Chief minister Report on h page 4

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TRADITIONAL LOOK ... Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Abang Openg don Iban warrior accessories yesterday as they attend a goodwill gathering with community leaders in Kapit, Sarawak. – BERNAMAPIC

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Anwar heads Kelantan Ruler’s honours list KOTA BHARU: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim headed the list of 763 people who have been conferred awards and titles in conjunction with the 55th birthday of the Sultan of Kelantan Sultan Muhammad V. Pertama (Seri Paduka) bagi Darjah Kebesaran Jiwa Mahkota Kelantan Yang Amat Mulia (SJMK), which carries the title of Datuk . Armed Forces Health Service director

King, Queen send birthday wishes to Sultan Muhammad V

police chief Datuk Muhamad Zaki Harun were conferred the Ahli Yang Pertama (Seri Paduka) bagi Darjah Kebesaran Jasa Mahkota Kelantan Yang Amat Setia , which carries the title Datuk . The sole recipient of the Ahli Yang Kehormat Yang Pertama (Seri Paduka) bagi Darjah Kebesaran Jasa Mahkota Kelantan Yang Amat Setia is Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain. Malaysia’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York Datuk Dr Ahmad Faisal Muhamad, Department of Irrigation and Drainage director-general Datuk Dr Ahmad Anuar Othman and Treasury secretary-general Datuk Johan Mahmood @ Johan Mahmood Merican were awarded the Ahli Yang Kedua (Dato Paduka) bagi Darjah Kebesaran Mahkota Kelantan Yang Amat Mulia , which carries the title of Datuk . – Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim and Her Majesty the Queen of Malaysia Raja Zarith Sofiah yesterday expressed best wishes to the Sultan of Kelantan Sultan Muhammad V on his 55th birthday in a post on the Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar Facebook page “May Allah SWT bless him with happiness and long life.” Kelantan celebrates the Sultan of Kelantan’s birthday every Sept 29 as a public holiday. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim also congratulated the Sultan on his birthday.

In a post on his Facebook page, Anwar wished the Sultan and the royal family good health and the guidance and blessings of Allah . “May Allah protect His Royal Highness in this world and the hereafter,” Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi also extended his congratulations to the Sultan. He sent prayers for Sultan Muhammad V to always be under the grace and protection of Allah , wishing him safety, long life and good health. “ Menjunjung Kasih Tuanku ,” he said in a post on his Facebook page. – Bernama

general Lt-Gen Datuk Zulkeffeli Mat Jusoh received the Ahli Yang Pertama (Seri Paduka) bagi Darjah Kebesaran Kesateria Mahkota Kelantan Yang Amat Perkasa , which also carries the title of Datuk . Kelantan Financial Officer Tengku Kaya Perkasa Datuk Dr Tengku Mohamed Faziharudean Tengku Feissal, Universiti Malaya Al-Quran and Al-hadith Department Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Yakub @ Zulkifli Mohd Yusoff and Kelantan Land and Minerals director Datuk Rosnazli Amin were conferred the Ahli Yang Pertama (Seri Paduka) bagi Darjah Kebesaran Setia Mahkota Kelantan Yang Amat Terbilang (SPSK), which has the honorific Datuk . Prisons Commissioner-General Datuk Seri Nordin Muhamad and former Kelantan

Anwar has been bestowed the Ahli Yang Kehormat Yang Pertama (Seri Paduka) bagi Darjah Kebesaran Mahkota Kelantan Yang Amat Mulia (SPMK), which carries the title of Datuk . A total of 100 individuals received their awards from Sultan Muhammad V at an investiture at Istana Balai Besar here yesterday, with 35 of them conferred the title of Datuk . Heading the group of recipients were Apex Equity Holdings Berhad group executive chairman Datuk Farhash Wafa Salvador and Muhibbah Security Sdn Bhd CEO Datuk Mohd Khidir Yaacob, who were bestowed the Ahli Yang Kehormat Yang

Reinstate UN anti-apartheid panel: Minister o Security Council veto power must be reformed, particularly in human rights abuse cases, says Mohamad Hasan

NEW YORK: Malaysia has urged for the reinstatement of the United Nations Special Committee Against Apartheid and reiterated the need for renewed global efforts to combat injustice. Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, while presenting the national statement at the United Nations General Assembly General Debate on Saturday, said the international community must act swiftly to address ongoing violations. He called on the UN Security Council to invoke its Chapter 7 powers to impose an immediate arms embargo on Israel. “Israel’s actions, with each passing day, raise our doubts as to whether it believes in the UN system or values its membership in this organisation. “Its illegal occupation has entrenched a system of apartheid and discrimination against Palestinians. The Israeli regime has itself declared its intent to wipe out an entire population. This is, without question, a genocide.” Mohamad stressed that the veto power within the Security Council must be reformed, particularly in cases of human rights abuses. “The veto should not be exercised at will. There must be exceptions in cases of crimes against humanity and attacks on civilian infrastructure.

“We must limit, or abolish the veto altogether,” he said, urging the General Assembly to take action where the Security Council has failed. Mohamad said Malaysia, a long-time supporter of Palestine, welcomes the progress made this year with 143 member states extending the UN’s principle of equality to Palestine, Bernama reported. “It fills us with hope to see the State of Palestine seated among us today. We urge the remaining minority to join the majority.” Calling for a diplomatic solution, Mohamad reiterated Malaysia’s support for Palestinian statehood. “Israel has violated every international law there is, including the Genocide Convention, Geneva Conventions and core Human Rights Treaties. “It is time to realise Palestine’s right to statehood and full membership in this Assembly. Dialogue and diplomacy are the only paths to a lasting solution, not collective punishment, man-made famine or impunity.” He also referred to Israel’s recent disrespect toward the UN by saying: “Just months ago, we witnessed Israel’s mockery of this body, shredding the UN Charter in this very hall. “Although the powerful few may behave as though might is right, the voice of the majority will not go ignored.”

‘Mahkota victory reflects people’s confidence in BN, Johor govt’ Syed Hussien waving to supporters after winning the Mahkota state seat on Saturday. – BERNAMAPIC

KLUANG: Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate Syed Hussien Syed Abdullah’s victory in the Mahkota state by-election reflects trust in the party and the people’s confidence in the leadership of the Johor government, said BN secretary-general Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir. He said the large mandate received in the by-election would also further strengthen BN’s determination to continue the politics of moderation together with its partners in the unity government led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. “Indeed, this victory is the people’s trust, which gives BN confidence to continue to be steadfast in raising the agenda of developing the country and enriching the lives of the people,” he said in a statement yesterday. Zambry expressed hope that the victory would

enable the redevelopment of BN’s excellence to boost the confidence and support of the people in the coalition. Representing BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Zambry thanked voters and members of the party machinery who had camped at the Mahkota constituency throughout the campaign period from Sept 14 to ensure victory for Syed Hussien. “There was no lack of cooperation from our Pakatan Harapan party friends, who contributed to this significant victory.” In the by-election on Saturday, BN defended the Mahkota state seat with Syed Hussien winning with a 20,648 vote majority, far ahead of the challenger from Perikatan Nasional Mohamad Haizan Jaafar, who only received 7,347 votes. – Bernama

Call for special envoy to tackle Islamophobia NEW YORK: Malaysia has urged the United Nations to appoint a special envoy to combat Islamophobia, calling for immediate global action against the growing wave of hate speech and violence targeting minorities, particularly Muslims. world, to ensure that peace will prevail. “Malaysia urges for the immediate appointment of a UN Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia,” said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan during the 79th United Nations General Assembly General Debate on Saturday.

“We are appalled by the alarming trend of hatred, intolerance and acts of violence against Muslims. This cannot continue. In the era of globalisation, there is room for everyone to coexist. It is our job, under the banner of a united

He said the broader issue of hatred against any religious group undermines universal values of justice and peace. – Bernama

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D.K., D.K.M., D.M.N., D.K. (SELANGOR), D.K. (NEGERI SEMBILAN), D.K. (JOHOR), D.K. (PERAK), D.K. (PERLIS), D.K. (KEDAH), D.K. (TERENGGANU), D.K. (PAHANG), S.P.M.K., S.J.M.K., S.P.K.K., S.P.S.K., S.P.J.K. SULTAN DAN YANG DIPERTUAN BAGI NEGERI KELANTAN DARULNAIM Sempena ULANG TAHUN HARI KEPUTERAAN KEBAWAH DULI YANG MAHA MULIA SULTAN MUHAMMAD V YANG KE-55, TAHUN 2024 Pada AHAD, 25 RABIULAWAL 1446H BERSAMAAN 29 SEPTEMBER 2024 “ISLAM MEMBIMBING, RAJA MEMIMPIN, NEGERI DIBERKATI” SEMOGA ALLAH MELINDUNGI TUANKU DUNIA DAN AKHIRAT

MONDAY | SEP 30, 2024

4 More Penang-China collaboration to come

Law amendments to protect fishery resources

PUTRAJAYA: The Fisheries Department is set to amend the Fisheries Act comprehensively to better regulate aquaculture activities and enhance biosecurity measures, ensuring the protection of the nation’s fishery resources. Its director-general Datuk Adnan Hussain said the detailed amendments, which cover various aspects of the fisheries sector, are expected to be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat later this year. “These amendments will address issues such as illegal, unregulated and unreported (IUU) fishing, port state measures, monitoring, control and surveillance, marine protected areas, aquaculture, biosecurity, expansion and fisheries impact assessment,” he said. He added that on April 24, the Cabinet approved in principle the proposed amendments. The Bill is expected to be tabled during the Parliament session from Oct 7 to Dec 5. Adnan emphasised the importance of collective cooperation among stakeholders to effectively combat illegal fishing and eliminate IUU activities. He said the department has spearheaded the establishment of the National IUU Main Committee and the IUU Working Committee to combat IUU fishing. These committees involve various enforcement agencies, including the Sabah Fisheries Department, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency and marine police working together to address the issue. “Malaysia is not exempt from the threat of IUU fishing by both local and foreign vessels. This is a complex, multi-dimensional problem that requires a strategic and multi-faceted approach. It begins with strengthening our monitoring efforts,” said Adnan. This year, 510 arrests have been made for violations under the Fisheries Act, resulting in fines totaling RM355,584, comprising RM75,263 from auctions and RM280,321 from compounds. Adnan also highlighted the department’s key role in promoting the aquaculture sector, particularly marine aquaculture, to support Malaysia’s blue economy goals. The National Agro-Food Policy 2021-2030 outlines strategies to enhance food security by developing the fisheries and aquaculture sectors. – Bernama KUANTAN: The Museums Department is targeting two million visitors to its 22 museums nationwide this year, with a range of engaging activities already held and more planned to attract the public. Unity Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad said over 1.3 million visitors had visited museums in the first eight months of 2024. “Each museum management has its own key performance indicators and I hope all museum management teams will develop strategies to position museums as a key tourism product for the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026,”he said at the Semarak @ Muzium Sungai Lembing 2024: Museums and Education programme here on Saturday. He said museums must “open their doors” especially to the younger generation, and not remain exclusive to certain groups or historians. Hasnol also said the Museums’ Collection Donation campaign has been launched, in which the public can donate selected personal collections to museums, adding that donors will be credited if their items are displayed, and are eligible for tax deductions. Those interested in contributing personal collections can fill out a form available on www.jmm.gov.my, and submit a description and photo of their collection via email to koleksi@jmm.gov.my. – Bernama Plan to draw two million museum visitors

o State looking forward to cooperation in renewable energy, smart city initiatives and innovation sector

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

GEORGE TOWN: Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow has highlighted the potential for more collaboration with China that are in line with the Penang2030 vision. At the 75th anniversary celebration of the founding of the republic held here recently, Chow said Penang’s vision of becoming a family-focused, green and smart state by 2030 goes hand in hand with China’s own progress in sustainable development and technological advancement. “We look forward to continuing collaboration with China in fields such as renewable energy, smart city initiatives and innovation,” he said. Chow also commended China as a global economic powerhouse advancing in technologies such as AI, chipmaking and big data. He said over the past 10 years (2014-2023), Penang has garnered a total of RM13.2 billion in approved manufacturing investments from China. He added that Penang houses 53 Chinese companies, 46 of which are in manufacturing, five in global business services, and two in logistics. In his speech, Chow mentioned Chinese food and beverage chains operating in Penang such as Mixue Ice Cream and Tea, Tea Expert and Haidilao Hotpot. He also pointed out the increase in Chinese tourists visiting Penang. Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said the move could also facilitate a cleaner and healthier environment. “The vehicle-free zone implemented in Banda Hilir is a very forward-looking initiative and many places have seen this method as an alternative to development that is too oriented towards motor vehicles. “So, it will not only be able to overcome the problem of traffic congestion in the main tourist focus areas but also reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” he told reporters after attending the Malacca 2024 Green Awards presentation ceremony on Saturday. Nik Nazmi said he also received information that several states were interested in implementing vehicle-free zones and there are cities that have done it, such as Penang,

Chow (left) and Zhou (centre) viewing displays at an exhibition held during the event. – PIC COURTESY OF CHINA CONSULATE GENERAL

“The implementation needs to be looked at deeply since it involves various factors such as the suitability of the area, access to public transport and parking for vehicles coming from outside. All these need to be studied. However, I am sure many cities can do it by starting it for a certain period of time,” he said. On the Malacca Green Awards 2024, which has been held biennially since 2015, Nik Nazmi said it can be an important platform for government agencies, the private sector, industry and the community to implement green initiatives towards environmental preservation and sustainable development. “This is also a joint effort by the federal government, which is currently drafting the National Climate Change Bill to strengthen policies related to climate change and the carbon market in Malaysia, thus ensuring that the country is on the right track in dealing with the issue of climate change more “China and Malaysia are friends whose hearts are connected, and partners for a win win cooperation. Standing at the new historical starting point, the building of the China-Malaysia community with a shared future continues to stride forward,” he said. As notable milestones, Zhou cited a recent visit to China by His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim and China premier Li Qiang’s visit to Malaysia, which culminated in 14 bilateral cooperation documents in areas such as digital economy, green development, urban development and higher education. “In addition to economic ties, we look forward to enhancing cultural, educational and people-to-people exchanges, building on “In the first eight months of this year, the state has received a total of 74,891 and 8,391 Chinese visitors via the Penang International Airport and Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal respectively,” he said. Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Penang Zhou Youbin expressed optimism for further mutual development between China and Malaysia.

comprehensively.” For this year, the four categories of awards are Green Culture, Green Project, Green Innovation and Green Community Programme, with a total of 50 entries from 30 government, private and community agencies in Malacca. On a separate matter, Nik Nazmi welcomed Malacca’s proposal to create the first environmental museum in Malaysia as a focal point for education and comprehensive awareness about the importance of environmental preservation, especially in relation to recycling practices. However, he added that it needs to be seen from various aspects, including the development budget to implement it. “We will examine the proposal from the Malacca government as everything depends on the approval of its feasibility budget. “An environmental museum in Japan was created and brought revenue because the tourism industry is quite lively there,” he said. – Bernama the shared history and vibrant connections between our two peoples.” Zhou said in the first eight months of 2024, bilateral trade between China and Malaysia surged to US$135.23 billion (RM557.86 billion), an increase of 11% compared with the same period last year. He added that during the plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, 300 important reform measures were made. “China abolished all the restrictive measures for the access of foreign investment in the manufacturing sector, and will continue to open up service sectors such as telecommunications, education and healthcare.” He also said the Chinese Consulate General in Penang will continue to work closely with the four northern states in the peninsula to strengthen China-Malaysia ties. More than 400 people attended the celebration on Sept 24, including leaders from DAP, MCA and Gerakan, and consul generals and honorary consuls from embassies.

Vehicle-free zone expansion option MALACCA: The successful implementation of a vehicle-free zone in Malacca can be used as a measure to eliminate congestion in cities nationwide. Petaling Jaya and Shah Alam in Selangor, in addition to Kuala Lumpur.

Water supply disruption possibility in Kedah ALOR SETAR: The Bukit Pinang Water Treatment Plant (WTP) and Pelubang WTP are at risk of operational disruptions due to raw water turbidity. caused by continuous heavy rain. “The raw water turbidity readings have shown an increase and there is a risk of water supply disruption involving several districts. “Currently, the WTPs involved are still operating at 100%, but Sada recommends that Syarikat Air Darul Aman (Sada) said in a statement on social media the turbidity was

users in Kota Setar, Kubang Pasu and parts of Pendang make preparations by storing water and using it sparingly.” Sada added that users may contact its hotline at 1300-88-0017 or email complaints to aduan@sada.com.my. – Bernama

MONDAY | SEP 30, 2024

5 All abuzz with Kluang ‘special’ brew

In Kluang, coffee served at local establishments can rival even the most popular brands in taste. – BERNAMAPIC

o District a must-visit destination for coffee enthusiasts who want to indulge in unique and distinct flavours of favourite beverage at reasonable price

KLUANG: Whether hot or cold, black or with milk, coffee has countless variations that many fans cannot resist. For true coffee lovers, no day will feel complete without their daily cup. For coffee enthusiasts, Kluang district is a must-visit destination, offering a diverse range of coffee shops. Here, you’ll find not only well-known coffee chains but also local establishments that can rival even the most popular brands in taste. One such fan, Ika Shakilah Syawal, 36, from Johor Bahru, was so intrigued by the buzz around Kluang’s coffee that she and her family now make it a regular weekend ritual to visit and explore its many coffee shops, Bernama reported. “My husband and I are serious coffee enthusiasts. After just a few visits, we’ve already found our favourite spots. The coffee here is exactly what we love – bold, aromatic and reasonably priced. “The craftsmanship here is truly

something special. We miss Kluang’s coffee whenever we’re away too long, which is why we don’t mind the two-hour drive just to enjoy it,” she said while relaxing at a coffee shop at Laman Kreatif Kluang here recently. Ika added that her career as an insurance agent also provides the perfect opportunity to indulge in her cravings for hot coffee and kaya -butter toast in the district, whenever she has business with clients in Kluang or nearby areas. “Each coffee spot here has its own charm. While new hipster cafes are popping up, I still prefer the traditional brew, it just hits differently. But everyone has their own taste,” said the mother of four. Wong Min Hang, a 55-year-old financial manager, was equally drawn to Kluang after hearing rave reviews from family, friends and social media. She was eager to experience the district’s famous coffee culture and she chose Kluang as a school holiday getaway for her family. Coming from the capital city, Wong and her family hopped from

her late mother established back in the 1940s. The kopitiam is famed for its charcoal-toasted bread and hand ground coffee beans, offering a taste of tradition that keeps locals and visitors coming back. A steaming cup of coffee here costs less than RM2. In addition to the iconic toast, the shop serves a variety of breakfast favourites, including nasi lemak and kuih prepared by local Malay traders.

the holiday rush,” Wong said. “I am already planning my next visit here,” she added Tan Lee Seng Kopitiam, a popular coffee spot in the town centre has been packed with customers since its doors opened at 6.30am, and owner Linda Tan, 78, expects the hustle to continue throughtout the day. Known as Auntie Linda, the charming 78-year-old proudly maintains the classic, old-school vibe

one coffee shop to another, soaking in the rich flavours. She even toured a well-known coffee factory, picking up coffee to take home as both souvenir and her personal stash. “Every cup we’ve tried has been fantastic – rich, not too sweet and offering unique flavours. We’ll definitely be back, maybe when it’s less crowded. There were a few shops we couldn’t even get into because of

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GISBH faces legal action over failure to pay tithe

Body of drowned woman found

ALOR SETAR: The body of a woman who was reportedly swept away by strong currents along with her son in Kampung Tanjung Kanan, near Kuala Nerang, was found drowned at 7.45am yesterday. Kedah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Zone 1 head senior superintendent Ahmad Aminuddin Abd Rahim said the body of Salmah Mat Zain, 46, was found 50m from where the body of her son, Muhammad Rosman Rohadi, 19, was discovered on Saturday. “The search and rescue operation resumed at 7.28am and during initial monitoring at the location, the victim’s body was found near the palm plantation. The body was then handed over to the police at 7.50am for further action and the operation was called off afterward,” he said in a statement yesterday. The media had previously reported that the mother and son were swept away by strong currents at about 8am during a flood, as they attempted to cross the water to return to their home in Kampung Tanjung Kanan on Saturday. The body of Muhammad Rosman, who was also a person with a disability, was found at 5.25pm, about 150m from the location where the two victims were last seen being swept away. Padang Terap district police chief DSP Mulkiaman Manzar, who was at the scene of the incident yesterday morning, advised residents in the district not to attempt to wade through floodwaters. – Bernama Soldier drowns in Linggiu Dam boating incident KOTA TINGGI: A soldier was found dead, believed to have drowned, following a boating accident at Linggiu Dam in Bandar Tenggara. Kota Tinggi police chief Supt Yusof Othman said they received a distress call regarding the 32-year-old deceased at 2.35am on Saturday. The soldier was on duty aboard an Armed Forces boat with three others when their vessel allegedly struck a floating log, causing all four men to be thrown overboard. “While the other three managed to swim to safety, the victim went missing. Despite their efforts to locate him, they were unsuccessful and alerted their supervisor,”Yusof said. The victim’s body was recovered by divers at about 11.50am, submerged 13m deep and approximately seven meters from where he was last seen. “The body has since been transferred to the forensic unit at Kota Tinggi Hospital for further investigation,” Yusof added, noting that the case has been classified as sudden death. – Bernama Remand extended for cash flow operator SHAH ALAM: The Magistrate’s Court has extended the remand of two individuals, including one believed to be acting as a cash flow operator for GISB Holdings Sdn Bhd (GISBH). The remand, which ended yesterday, has been extended for five more days. The order to extend the remand of the man and woman, both in their 50s, was issued by deputy registrar Nurshahira Abdul Salim. The two individuals were initially remanded for seven days on Sept 23. It is understood that both individuals were taken to the lockup at the Shah Alam police district headquarters. On Friday, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain confirmed that police had arrested an individual believed to be a GISBH cash flow operator through Op Global Phase 4 in Butterworth, Penang, on Sept 23. – Bernama

o Authorities reveal multiple linked companies yet to fulfil zakat obligations or pay business taxes

national – as well as two women and a man, aged between 18 and 55. They are being investigated under Section 31(a) of the Child Act 2001 and the Anti Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants (Amendment) Act 2022. The court also extended the remand of 10 additional individuals for a period of four to seven days to facilitate the ongoing investigation into the GISBH case. The individuals include eight men and two women aged between 22 and 53 who were previously remanded for a week. The investigation is being conducted under Section 31(a) of the Child Act 2001, the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984 and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti Smuggling of Migrants (Amendment) Act 2022. On Sept 11, police launched a raid on 20 welfare homes linked to GISBH in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan, following allegations of child abuse, labour exploitation and religious manipulation. Since the operation began, more than 300 individuals, including the top management of GISBH, have been arrested and 572 victims have been rescued.

KUALA LUMPUR: The shortcomings of GISBH Holdings Sdn Bhd (GISBH) are increasingly coming to light, highlighted by the recent revelation that the company has never made any payments for business zakat or tithe. The Selangor Zakat Board (SZB) announced that over 20 GISBH-linked companies have never paid zakat and the board is unable to determine the amount owed as it has never received any information regarding the company’s assets and liabilities. According to SZB, legal action can be taken against GISBH for failing to pay zakat under the Administration of the Religion of Islam (State of Selangor) Enactment 2003, which provides penalties of imprisonment and fines for those who deliberately avoid paying zakat . Previously, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said based on cooperation between police and the Inland

Revenue Board, it was discovered that the GISBH network has never paid any business taxes. He added that this corroborates investigations conducted by the Royal Malaysia Police under the Income Tax Act 1967. The Selangor government has taken firm action by ordering the closure of all GISBH premises in the state and seizing their assets. Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said he will personally announce the total number of premises, including shelters and religious schools associated with GISBH, on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the Shah Alam Magistrate’s Court on Saturday granted a seven-day remand for seven individuals to assist in investigations, Bernama reported. The individuals under remand are believed to include four wives of a senior GISBH leader – one of whom is a foreign

An individual associated with GISBH being escorted by police. – BERNAMAPIC

Elderly scammed of RM255m in first eight months KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 1,916 elderly individuals aged 61 and above fell victim to online scams during the first eight months of this year, resulting in losses amounting to RM255,367,680.39. He explained that the woman received a phone call from an individual claiming to be from the customer service unit in Putrajaya, informing her that her phone number had been misused in a cybercrime case.

RM552,512,422.66 or 20% of the total. “Similar figures have been recorded for this year, with losses involving elderly victims reaching RM255,367,680.39 by August, which accounts for 27.9% of the total losses recorded, amounting to RM914,051,236.30,” he added. He emphasised the importance of disseminating crime prevention information, particularly regarding online fraud, to elderly individuals and urged family members to advise their parents, relatives or friends to remain vigilant and cautious of any suspicious calls. “Believing and following all instructions received over the phone can put victims at risk of robbery or fraud. For verification, it is advisable to cross-check with the relevant agency by contacting the phone number obtained from the official website,” he said. Ramli also informed that a 72-year-old retired woman lost more than RM600,000 after being deceived by an individual impersonating a police officer over the phone on Sept 20.

Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department director Datuk Seri Ramli Mohamed Yoosuf said while the number of elderly victims is relatively small, the financial losses incurred by this demographic are significant, making them a prime target for scammers. “Over the past three years (2021 to 2023), a total of 86,266 individuals have been victims of online fraud, of which 5,533 victims or 6.4%, are aged 61 and above,” he said in a statement. He noted that a similar trend has been observed this year, with 1,916 elderly victims or 8.9%, among the 21,535 recorded online fraud cases as of August this year. Throughout these three years, total recorded losses from online fraud cases amounted to RM2,768,396,952.40, with losses involving elderly victims accounting to

He noted that the caller then instructed her to apply for personal data protection and fund protection before transferring the call to another person impersonating a police officer. “The victim was subsequently informed that she was also involved in a money laundering case and, for the purpose of the investigation, was directed to consolidate all her savings into a single bank account in her name, providing the banking information to the ‘police’. “The victim was also instructed to hand over all her jewellery and gold bars to an individual who came to collect the items from her home. In total, the victim suffered losses of cash, jewelry, gold dinars and gold bars amounting to RM670,994,” he said, adding that a police report was filed regarding the case on Saturday. – Bernama

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Nuclear sub sank in China port, claims US official

Cloudflare denies hosting sites linked to data leak BENGALURU: US software firm Cloudflare has denied any role in hosting two websites run by a hacker offering for sale stolen personal data and medical records of customers of top Indian insurer Star Health. The statement comes after the company was made party to an Indian lawsuit filed by Star Health last week, in which the insurer alleged that Cloudflare hosted the websites in question. “Cloudflare is not the host for the domains in question,” said the firm, adding that it works as a pass-through service situated between a website host and an end-user, which is why one may see a Cloudflare IP address. Star has also sued Telegram and the self styled hacker xenZen, after Reuters reported that sensitive personal data, from telephone numbers to copies of identity cards and blood reports of its customers, were publicly accessible via Telegram chatbots. The websites and Telegram bots were inaccessible yesterday. Star did not respond to a request for comment outside regular business hours in India. Earlier, Star said initial assessment showed“no widespread compromise”, adding that sensitive customer data remained secure. The company has received an injunction from a court in Tamil Nadu ordering Telegram and the hacker to block any chatbots or websites in India that make the data available online. Last week Telegram told Reuters any newly created bots attempting to share this data were probably removed in a massive sweep of its searchable content. The Star lawsuit comes as global scrutiny of Telegram grows following last month’s arrest of its founder Pavel Durov in France. – Reuters

o No information to provide, says embassy

boat to sink, or whether it carried nuclear fuel. “In addition to the obvious questions about training standards and equipment quality, the incident raises deeper questions about the PLA’s internal accountability and oversight of China’s defence industry, which has long been plagued by corruption,” the official said, using an acronym for the People’s Liberation Army, adding that it was “not surprising that the PLA navy would try to conceal” the sinking. Analysts noted changes in satellite imagery of the dock at the Shuangliu shipyard on the Yangtze River where the nuclear submarine was undergoing final checks. Images from March 10 show the boat docked at the port and being prepared for its first sea trial, but images from June 15 do not show the submarine. Naval experts said they only see floating cranes in the later images, a possible indication that attempts were being made to salvage the vessel. An image from June 15 showed the submarine either fully or partially submerged just under the river’s surface, surrounded by rescue equipment. Containment booms can be seen around the area, likely used to prevent any oil or other substances leaking from the vessel. A subsequent satellite image on Aug 25 showed a submarine back at the same dock. It is not clear if this is the same vessel. It is not known if the reported sinking caused any casualties.

The incident is likely to add to growing pressure on China’s military as the government presses ahead with a crackdown on corruption. President Xi Jinping recently removed the top leadership of the Rocket Force, the military branch responsible for managing conventional and nuclear missile operations. The Chinese Communist Party has framed the crackdown on the Rocket Force as part of an anti-corruption drive, particularly targeting officials involved in military procurement. The state-of-the-art Zhou class nuclear attack submarines have a distinctive X-shaped tail that aids manoeuvrability as well as advanced stealth technology to reduce noise and evade detection by enemy forces. In recent years, Beijing has made the modernisation of its naval fleet a top priority. The PLA navy operates six nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines, six nuclear submarines and 48 diesel-powered attack submarines, according to a 2023 China military power report. In comparison, the US navy has 53 fast attack submarines, 14 ballistic-missile submarines and four guided-missile submarines. This force is expected to grow to 65 by next year and 80 by 2035, the US Defence Department has said. According to the Congressional Research Service, the PLA navy operates 234 warships compared to the US navy’s 219. – The Independent

LONDON: China’s most advanced nuclear submarine sank in port while undergoing final sea tests earlier this year, American officials have claimed, in a blunder Beijing rushed to cover up. The Zhou class vessel sank in May or June at the Wuchang shipyard near Wuhan, an anonymous Pentagon official told Reuters. The Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday that the boat was likely carrying nuclear fuel when it went down. The sinking, if confirmed, would mark a blow to the modernisation plans of the Chinese navy, already the largest in the world with over 370 ships. China is vying to overtake the US as the dominant maritime power in the world and the production of a new generation of nuclear submarines is crucial to its strategy. The US has designated China as its long term “pacing challenge”. A Chinese embassy spokesperson in Washington said they had no information to provide. “We are not familiar with the situation you mentioned and have no information to provide,” they said. The unnamed American official told Reuters that it was not clear what caused the

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INDONESIA LANDSLIDE DEATH TOLL RISES TO 13 JAKARTA: The death toll after a landslide at an illegal mine in Sumatra was raised to 13 yesterday as search efforts ended. Heavy rains caused a landslide at a remote illegal mining site on Thursday in West Sumatra province, where rescue workers had to walk for hours from the nearest village to reach the area. Provincial disaster mitigation agency spokesperson Ilham Wahab said 13 people were found dead, while 12 others were injured, raising the death toll by two. “Since all 25 reported victims have been found we decided to end the search and rescue operation,” Ilham told AFP. IWAYA LIKELY TO BE NAMED JAPAN FOREIGN MINISTER TOKYO: Japan’s incoming prime minister, Shigeru Ishiba, will likely name former defence minister Takeshi Iwaya as foreign minister when he forms his government this week. Iwaya, defence chief from 2018 to 2019, helped Ishiba on strategy in his winning run to lead the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. Ishiba, 67, said after winning the LDP race on Friday he planned to form his government tomorrow after the lower house of parliament votes on a prime minister. He will name former chief Cabinet secretary Katsunobu Kato as finance minister and retain Yoshimasa Hayashi as chief Cabinet secretary. – Reuters ‘U.S. PLAYING WITH FIRE BY BACKING UKRAINE’ SEOUL: North Korea said US military aid worth US$8 billion (RM33 billion) to Ukraine is “an incredible mistake” and playing with fire against nuclear superpower Russia. US President Joe Biden announced the new aid to help Kyiv defend itself, including longer-range weapons. Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, said Washington is escalating the Ukraine conflict and driving all of Europe to the brink of a nuclear war. Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned he could use nuclear weapons if Russia was hit with missiles. – Reuters UK NAVY OFFICER LAID TO REST IN SRI LANKA COLOMBO: A British naval officer’s wish to have his ashes scattered at a strategic base in Sri Lanka has been granted 25 years after his death. Lieutenant Norman Schofield had served as a communications officer at Trincomalee, a key staging post for Allied troops during WWII. His wish was held up because the country prohibits the practice of scattering ashes. An exception was made following requests through diplomatic channels. His wife Marian’s ashes were also scattered on Friday near Ostenburg Point. – AFP SAUDI ARABIA EXECUTES 198THISYEAR DUBAI: Saudi Arabia has carried out its highest number of executions in more than three decades after three executions announced on Saturday took this year’s figure to 198. The Saudi Press Agency announced the executions, citing the Interior Ministry. The kingdom executed the third highest number of prisoners in the world after China and Iran last year. The latest tally surpassed its previous highs of 196 in 2022 and 192 in 1995, according to Amnesty International. Last year, 170 executions were carried out. – AFP

104 dead in Nepal floods

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KATHMANDU: of Nepal’s flood-hit capital returned to their mud-caked homes yesterday to survey the wreckage of devastating floods that have killed at least 104 people across the Himalayan republic. Deadly rain-related floods and landslides are common across South Asia during the monsoon season from June to September. Entire neighbourhoods in Kathmandu were inundated over the weekend with flash floods reported in rivers coursing through the capital and extensive damage to highways connecting the city with the rest of Nepal. Kumar Tamang, who lives in a slum area by a riverbank, said he o Domestic flights to Kathmandu resume Residents

alive when earth from a landslide careened into a highway south of Kathmandu, said Dhading district chief Rajendra Dev Pandey. The valley in which the capital sits recorded 240mm of rain in the 24 hours to Saturday morning, the country’s weather bureau told the Kathmandu Post newspaper. It was the highest rainfall recorded in the capital since at least 1970, the report said. The Bagmati river and its numerous tributaries which cut through Kathmandu broke their banks, inundating nearby homes and vehicles after midnight on Saturday. Residents struggled through chest-deep water to get to higher ground. More than 3,000 security personnel were deployed to assist rescue efforts with helicopters and motorboats. Rescue teams were using rafts to

pull survivors to safety. Domestic flights resumed in and out of Kathmandu by yesterday morning after weather forced a complete stoppage from Friday evening, with more than 150 departures cancelled. The summer monsoon brings South Asia 70-80% of its annual rainfall. Monsoon rains from June to September bring widespread death and destruction every year across South Asia. A landslide that hit a road in Chitwan district in July pushed two buses with 59 passengers aboard into a river. Three people were able to escape alive, but authorities managed to recover only 20 bodies from the accident, with raging flood waters impeding the search. More than 260 people have died in Nepal in rain-related disasters this year. – AFP

and his family had to flee after midnight on Saturday as waters rushed into his shack. “This morning we returned and everything looks different,” the 40 year-old said. “We couldn’t even open the doors to our house, it was jammed with mud. Yesterday we were afraid that the water would kill us, but today we have no water to clean,” he said. Nepal’s Home Ministry said 104 people had been killed across the country with another 64 still missing. Ministry spokesman Rishi Ram Tiwari said bulldozers were being used to clear several highways that had been blocked by debris, cutting Kathmandu off from the rest of the country. “More than 3,000 people have been rescued,” he said. At least 14 of those killed were aboard two buses and were buried

Kathmandu residents climb onto a rooftop as their neighbourhood is submerged after the Bagmati River overflowed on Saturday. – AFPPIC

Five more countries ratify high seas treaty NEW YORK: A year after a historic treaty to protect the high seas was opened to signatures, it has now received 13 ratifications – leaving it still far from coming into force. last year; not ratifications, but indications of willingness to ratify it eventually. That number has now reached 104. Five new countries – East Timor, Singapore, the Maldives, “While this week’s progress is welcome, there is a sense of complacency from some countries, and we would have expected more to have taken the opportunity of ratifying last week,”said Greenpeace. “What an incredible week for the ocean,” the conservation-minded High Seas Alliance said on X.

exclusive economic zones of countries end – at a maximum of 370km from shore – and therefore fall under the jurisdiction of no state. Although the high seas account for almost half the planet’s surface area and over 60% of its oceans, they have long been ignored by environmental efforts. The new treaty’s flagship tool is the creation of marine protected areas. Conservation measures cover just 1% of the high seas. – AFP

The treaty, which took 15 years of tough negotiating to be approved, aims to protect vital marine ecosystems that are threatened by pollution. It requires 60 ratifications before coming into force. UN members finalised it in March last year, then formally adopted it. The treaty received 70 signatures

Bangladesh and Barbados – ratified the treaty last week at the UN General Assembly, bringing total ratifications to 13. Campaign groups still hope the treaty will come into force next year, but say ratifications are lagging.

But it was “time to step up the pace and sprint to the finish line,” said Rebecca Hubbard, director of the NGO coalition. The high seas begin where the

MONDAY | SEP 30, 2024 9 Wang touts role as peacemaker NEW YORK: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi sought to burnish his country’s credentials as a global peacemaker at the UN General Assembly on Saturday, calling for a cessation of fighting in the Middle East and touting Beijing’s diplomatic efforts on Russia’s war in Ukraine. Wang spoke after Israel killed Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah on Friday. “The question of Palestine is the biggest wound to human conscience. As we speak, the conflict in Gaza is still going on, causing more casualties with each passing day. Fighting has started in Lebanon again, but might cannot replace justice,”Wang said. “There must not be any delay in reaching a comprehensive ceasefire, and the fundamental way out lies in the two-state solution.” China has stepped up its involvement in various crises, seeking to rival Washington’s traditional role as a global mediator. In July, it hosted talks between Palestinian rivals including Hamas and Fatah in Beijing. President Xi Jinping helped broker a deal last year to end a diplomatic rift between Saudi Arabia and Iran, leaving the US on the sidelines. “Peace is the most precious thing in our world today,”Wang said at the UN. Beijing’s most significant peace effort is a proposal for talks to end the war in Ukraine. China and Brazil have proposed new talks involving Kyiv and Moscow. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said he wanted to know concretely how China and Brazil’s initiative will work toward peace, and said it is important their proposals are “underpinned by the realities” of the conflict. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Friday that China promoting its peace efforts on Ukraine while also helping Moscow to produce missiles, rockets, armoured vehicles and munitions “doesn’t add up”. – Reuters

Israel pounds Hezbollah sites after killing its leader

o Families camp out in Beirut streets

conflict could spin out of control, potentially drawing in Iran as well as the United States, Israel’s closest ally. Hezbollah and Israel have been fighting in parallel with Israel’s war in Gaza. Lebanon’s Health Ministry said 33 people had been killed in Israeli strikes on Lebanon on Saturday, bringing the total toll since hostilities broke out on Oct 8 last year to more than 1,670, including 104 children. In Beirut, displaced families spent the night on the benches at Zaitunay Bay, a string of restaurants and cafes on Beirut’s waterfront where private security usually shoos away any loiterers. Yesterday, families with nothing more than a duffle bag of clothes had rolled out mats to sleep on and poured tea for themselves. “You won’t be able to destroy us, whatever you do, however much you bomb, however much you displace people – we will stay here. We won’t leave. This is our country and we’re staying,” said Francoise Azori, a Beirut resident jogging through the area. The UN World Food Programme said in a statement it had launched an emergency operation to provide food for up to a million people affected by the conflict in Lebanon. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Saturday Nasrallah’s killing was a necessary step toward “changing the balance of power in the region”. “Nasrallah was not a terrorist, he was the terrorist,” Netanyahu said in a statement, warning of challenging days ahead.

Israel said it killed senior Hezbollah official Ali Karaki and other commanders along with Nasrallah. US President Joe Biden described Nasrallah’s death as a measure of justice for what he called his many victims, including thousands of Americans, Israelis and Lebanese, and said the US fully supported Israel’s right to self-defence. But when asked if an Israeli ground incursion into Lebanon was inevitable, Biden said on Saturday: “It’s time for a ceasefire.” Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was moved to a secure location in Iran after Nasrallah’s killing, sources told Reuters. Khamenei said Nasrallah’s death would be avenged and his path in fighting Israel would be pursued by other groups. Tehran called for a UN Security Council meeting on Israel’s actions in Lebanon and elsewhere in the region, warning against any attacks on its diplomatic facilities and representatives. A senior member of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, deputy commander Abbas Nilforoushan, was also killed in Friday’s attacks. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said Israel’s war was not with the Lebanese people. He held talks late on Saturday about possibly expanding Israel’s military offensive on its northern front, his office said. Hezbollah said it would cease fire only when Israel’s Gaza offensive ends. – Reuters

BEIRUT: Israel struck multiple targets in Lebanon yesterday, pressing Hezbollah with more attacks after it struck a huge blow by killing the group’s leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. The Israeli military said the air force had “struck dozens of Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, including launchers that were aimed toward Israeli territory, structures in which weapons were stored and additional Hezbollah terrorist infrastructure”. The navy had intercepted a projectile approaching from the Red Sea and another eight projectiles coming from Lebanon had fallen in open areas, it said in a statement. Nasrallah was killed in an air attack on Friday on the group’s headquarters in Beirut. Israel announced his killing on Saturday and Hezbollah later confirmed his death. In its announcement, Hezbollah said it would keep fighting Israel and has continued to fire rockets at it. Nasrallah’s death capped a traumatic fortnight for Hezbollah, starting with the detonation of thousands of communications devices used by its members. Israel was widely assumed to have carried out that action but has not confirmed or denied it did. The escalation has increased fears the