29/05/2025

Reaffirmation on commitment to good governance Public trust rests not only on effective institutions, but also on core values

THURSDAY MAY 29, 2025

RM1

such as integrity, transparency and accountability: PM

Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY

Report on — page 2

SCAN ME No. 8805 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

Report on — page 3 Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli, Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad resign from ministerial positions in post-PKR elections fallout. Cabinet loses two members

In addition to disruption to their lives, the affected residents have not received complete information on the cause of the blast or the identity of the contractor involved in works at the site. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN cted the ved

Putra Heights residents still

trying to move on

Some two months after inferno, families remain plagued by temporary housing, reconstruction and schooling for children issues.

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AI-generated child porn just as bad as real deal Such material constitutes offence under law and should be treated with same severity as physical abuse, says MCA leader.

Report on h page 5

THURSDAY | MAY 29, 2025

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Brunei Sultan in stable condition

PM: No interference in Auditor-General’s report o ‘Public trust in govt depends on effectiveness of institutions, core values of integrity, transparency and accountability’

Tangible outcomes expected at Asean Summit in October KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is confident that Asean will deliver tangible outcomes in the next Asean Summit slated for October. He said his confidence was based on the unprecedented progress in discussions and renewed sense of commitment shown by member states during the 46th Asean Summit and related summits, which concluded on Tuesday. Anwar said most of the work, usually reserved for the next summit, have already been undertaken, allowing the region to move forward with greater clarity and purpose. “This is quite unprecedented. Things that normally would be deliberated or discussed in October have been done now, and we are moving forward.” He was speaking at a media conference at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. Present were Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz and Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. Anwar said consensus among Asean leaders has significantly supported ongoing efforts to resolve the Myanmar crisis, which he described as a major progress, with both sides now engaged in lower-level consultations aimed at prolonging a ceasefire and facilitating humanitarian assistance. “The development marks a shift from previous deadlocks, with Asean seeing greater willingness from stakeholders in Myanmar to engage in constructive dialogue within the framework of the Five-Point Consensus.” Anwar added that Timor-Leste is expected to be accepted as a full Asean member by October. He said negotiations on the matter had been protracted but this time around, a consensus was reached. – Bernama Earlier, questions were raised about the Sultan’s absence from the Asean-GCC-China Summit on Tuesday. – Bernama KUALA LUMPUR: The Sultan of Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, who is receiving treatment at the National Heart Institute for fatigue, is reported to be in a stable and satisfactory condition. The Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement yesterday that His Majesty, who is accompanied by Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha, is still under medical observation. “The medical team has advised that His Majesty not receive any visitors for the time being, except members of the Brunei royal family.” The statement added that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail visited the Sultan. Anwar also called on all Malaysians to pray for the Sultan’s health and well-being.

of transparency and accountability and to strengthen anti-corruption frameworks, especially by ensuring the independence of auditors and regulators.” He also urged Asean countries to go beyond economic progress and embrace principled governance as a defining feature of the region’s global standing. “We want Asean to stand as a region of cohesion, trust and peace, not just because we’re home to around 650 million people or one of the fastest-growing economies, but because we live by our values.” Anwar warned against prioritising technological and financial development at the expense of social equity, calling for a more inclusive approach to growth. “Why focus on audit, governance and AI if we don’t also resolve abject poverty or address inequality? Our ultimate goal must be to protect human dignity. “Governance rooted in values and dignity is the only foundation for sustainable development. History is full of nations that rose to greatness and then declined due to greed and corruption.” Present were Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar and Auditor-General Datuk Seri Wan Suraya Wan Mohd Radzi. Held under the theme “Inclusive and Sustainable Auditing for a Progressive Asean,” the two-day conference drew more than 2,000 participants.

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

strengthen independent oversight bodies and audit institutions in both Malaysia and across Asean. Anwar also acknowledged the political risks involved in acting on audit findings, particularly when entrenched interests are challenged. “In government, I’ve learnt that taking corrective action, even when backed by audit reports, can be very unpopular. “You face backlash from vested interests. For example, enforcing a transparent tender process may upset those used to the old ways. But if we don’t act, we risk letting corruption flourish.” Citing the 1Malaysia Development Berhad scandal as an example, Anwar warned of the consequences when oversight mechanisms are weak and audit processes compromised. “We’ve seen in the past, even in our own country, how oversight failures and complicity among auditors can contribute to scandals that rob the nation. “Let’s be honest. In the past, even large audit firms have not been immune to complicity.” Anwar said to address this, there is a need to empower auditors and regulators to operate independently and without external pressure. “Our goal is to uphold the highest standards

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stressed that he does not interfere in the preparation of the Auditor-General’s report, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to transparency and good governance. “When I receive audit briefings, it’s not to interfere or alter the findings, but to understand them before they are presented to the Cabinet and Parliament for open, public debate. That is good governance. That is transparency.” Speaking at the closing ceremony of the inaugural Asean Auditors Conference 2025 yesterday, Anwar said public trust in the government depends not only on the effectiveness of institutions but also on the core values they uphold, particularly integrity, transparency and accountability. “A crucial part of our cohesiveness lies in remaining true to our ideals – a community rooted in responsible and good governance. And at the heart of good governance is accountability.” He reiterated his administration’s ongoing institutional reforms, notably efforts to

CEREMONIAL SEND-OFF ... Chinese Premier Li Qiang inspecting a guard-of-honour mounted by the First Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment at the Bunga Raya Complex, KL International Airport before his departure after attending the Asean-GCC-China Summit. – BERNAMAPIC

New legislation needed for artificial intelligence, says Anwar KUALA LUMPUR: New legislation has to be introduced to enable artificial intelligence (AI) to operate independently without having to subject itself to the laws of the country, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Fortune yesterday. Anwar said although some Asean and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries have only recently begun substantive engagement with Malaysia, there is already a strong foundation of mutual understanding on critical issues. one another.” He said such trust is instrumental in encouraging broader cooperation, with Asean and GCC getting onboard, and persuading China to align on certain positions.

cannot persuade the team to come up with very substantive agreements.” He said amid shifting global dynamics, legitimate concerns cannot be dismissed lightly as they deal with human beings that bring values, faith, personality, historical understanding and national identity. Anwar said the current global political order suffers from a “deficit in values”, and urged caution against blindly adopting new technologies without an ethical foundation. He highlighted the importance of education and critical thinking, which are keys to empowering diverse perspectives. – Bernama

Although national laws protect a country’s sovereignty, new legislation has to be enacted to transform new technologies. “If you want to accept AI, then you cannot be thinking of sovereignty in the old school form.” He was speaking during a panel session at the Asean-GCC Economic Forum 2025, titled “The Intelligent Grid: Building Bridges Through Sovereign AI Collaboration”, organised by

He reiterated that these fundamentals are supported by the fact that Asean is relatively one of the most peaceful regions in the world, coupled with its status as the fastest-growing economy, while GCC countries continue to achieve remarkable progress in renewable energy, digital transformation and AI adoption. “There is no point in having all this facade in hosting big international conferences if we

“These include governance, international relations and the adoption of new technologies such as digital transformation and alternative energy. “When you have leaders having that sort of mindset promoting new technological advancement and change, it could not have happened if we do not have this basic trust with

THURSDAY | MAY 29, 2025

3 Rafizi, Nik Nazmi step down after PKR poll losses

500 students to receive RM100 monthly cash aid NIBONG TEBAL: A total of 500 Form Six students from B40 families will receive RM100 cash in monthly aid starting this month until December 2025 under the Farm Fresh Berhad STPM Student Bursary programme. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the students from 10 states in Peninsular Malaysia had been identified as the initial recipients for the programme. “It is hoped that the initiative will help elevate the quality of education for the students, apart from inspiring and motivating them to succeed in life and pursue their studies to the highest level,” she told reporters after launching the programme at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah on Tuesday. Fadhlina also expressed appreciation to Farm Fresh for the initiative, describing it as a form of corporate social responsibility (CSR) that addresses the current needs of Form Six students. She said the Education Ministry hopes to see more corporate companies step forward to support the education ecosystem and elevate national education through similar programmes. She said the ministry remains committed to making Form Six one of the top choices for students pursuing studies after SPM and the rebranding is part of a strategic move in line with the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-2025 to empower inclusive and competitive post-secondary pathways. To ensure continuity and equitable access to education, she said the government has also extended the early schooling aid to Form Six students starting this year, benefitting more than 100,000 students with a total allocation of RM15 million. Farm Fresh has been appointed as the school milk supplier for 10 states (Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, Perlis, Kedah, Penang, Perak, Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya) in five zones. In addition to the STPM bursary programme which will continue until 2029 with new recipients selected annually, Farm Fresh has also planned several CSR programmes as part of the spillover benefits from the school milk supply contract. They include the Bijak Mengira tuition programme, national subsidised milk competition Multidimensi Plus , World School Milk Day celebration and the School-to-Farm programme. – Bernama

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI AND HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o Cabinet exits follow internal defeats, with both leaders citing accountability and party mandate as key reasons

IHH has presented a strong financial performance in the 2024 financial year (FY2024) with double digit growth in key metrics, backed by strong operational performance across key markets. It said in a statement that the group continued to deliver resilient growth and healthy returns for shareholders as it executes its five strategic growth priorities. Correspondingly, IHH had declared a final cash dividend of 5.5 sen per share, bringing the total ordinary dividend for FY2024 to 10 sen a share, up from nine sen per share for FY2023. mandate. He also reassured that the internal party contest would not impact the functioning of the unity government. “I have spoken with my colleagues in the government, including those from Gabungan Parti Sarawak and Barisan Nasional, and assured them that the internal party contest will not disrupt the administration,” he had said. He also affirmed that he would continue serving as Pandan MP. Previously, Rafizi also said once he is no longer bound by his responsibilities as a minister, he will have more freedom to speak out on various issues without being constrained by Cabinet ethics. “Firstly, I will no longer be burdened with the heavy responsibilities of a minister. Secondly, I’ll be happier because my hands and mouth will no longer be tied.” Rafizi served as the Economy minister, having been appointed to the role by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim following the 2022 general election. Meanwhile, Nik Nazmi, who announced his resignation on Instagram, said he would be on leave from today until the day before his resignation takes effect. He lost the Setiawangsa PKR division chief post to director-actor Datuk Afdlin Shauki and failed to retain his PKR vice-presidency. Nik Nazmi explained that his Cabinet appointment was closely tied to his previous role as a PKR vice-president. “I look forward to continuing my service as an MP and refocusing my efforts on Setiawangsa.” His tenure as minister began in Dec 2022 and included a portfolio reshuffle in Dec 2023. His achievements made in collaboration with the civil service include significant amendments to the Environmental Quality Act 1974 and enhanced transparency in the Environmental Impact Assessment process.

PETALING Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli announced yesterday that he will resign from the Cabinet, effective June 17. Following in his footsteps, Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad has also tendered his resignation, effective July 4. Both PKR leaders made the announcements via press statements posted on their respective social media platforms. Rafizi said he had submitted his resignation letter to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and would begin using his remaining annual leave starting yesterday until his last official day in office. “I joined politics to cultivate a new political culture grounded in accountability and the people’s mandate. My recent defeat in the party polls means I no longer have the mandate from my party to JAYA:

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places significant emphasis on comprehensive education reforms, including structural changes involving the Education Ministry. “I hope the Cabinet will uphold the bold reforms, even after my departure,” he added. Rafizi’s resignation follows his defeat in the recent PKR deputy presidency race, where Nurul Izzah Anwar secured over 70% of the vote. She was officially elected as the new deputy president with 9,803 votes, while Rafizi received 3,866, marking a significant shift in party leadership. Before the election, Rafizi had indicated that he was prepared to step down from his ministerial post if he failed to retain his position, framing the move as a gesture of respect for the grassroots

government policy,” said Rafizi. He added that in keeping with democratic practices in other countries, party leaders who lose internal elections should step aside for those with a renewed mandate to serve in the government. Rafizi also expressed gratitude to the leadership and civil servants at the Economy Ministry, praising their professionalism and ability to craft effective economic policies and programmes. “My final responsibility as minister has been the completion of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), which is now ready to be tabled in Parliament in the upcoming session,” he said. According to Rafizi, the 13MP

The Cabinet lineup will see changes following the resignations of Rafizi and Nik Nazmi from their ministerial positions after losing at the party polls. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Malaysia primed to be top medical tourism destination KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has bright prospects in medical tourism, driven by its highly trained doctors, excellent facilities and competitive currency, said IHH Healthcare Bhd. Its CEO Dr Prem Kumar Nair said Malaysian hospitals have received patients from various countries such as the United Kingdom, Turkiye and Australia to perform surgeries due to cheaper prices and unavailability of medical experts in their home countries. growth in medical tourism. “For now, our medical tourism percentage has risen from five to seven per cent. “Once we fully integrate Island Hospital, the overall percentage of our revenue in Malaysia will be at 14%, coming from medical tourism,“ he told a press conference after IHH’s 15th annual general meeting yesterday, reported Bernama. On the other hand, Prem said the company will study the Originally developed to support public healthcare funding, the DRG model is a standard mechanism within national health systems such as the national healthcare services in the UK and Europe, as well as the national health insurance schemes in Japan, South Korea and Taiwan. “According to the system, a public or private hospital is paid by a single payer, with each medical procedure assigned a specific code – such as for an appendectomy, cholecystectomy, or open-heart surgery – and reimbursed at a fixed rate.” Prem said there had been much discussion on the DRG model, and the Health Ministry has engaged with IHH, insurance companies and consumer groups. He added the meetings concluded that it was difficult to implement the system in private hospitals. “There is a pilot system going on in some public hospitals now, and I think it does make sense to do it (implement DRG) in the public sector. “There is a certain standardisation of rooms, facilities, amenities and all that ... the Health Ministry has explicitly said we will not have it ... it (DRG implementation) has clearly been deferred for the time being.“ Taking advantage of that, he said the newly acquired Island Hospital in Penang will become IHH’s learning ground to improve the implementation of the diagnosis related group (DRG) system as it is difficult to enforce at private hospitals for now.

THURSDAY | MAY 29, 2025

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Residents grappling to move on after gas pipeline blast

would involve three vans to provide access to existing bus services, including routes 301 (Weld Quay – Relau), 302 (Weld Quay – Batu Maung), 303 (Weld Quay – Bukit Gedung), 304 (Gurney Promenade – Bukit Gedung), 306 (Hospital – Penang International Airport), 308 (Sungai Nibong – Gertak Sanggul), 401 (Weld Quay – Teluk Kumbar), 401E (Weld Quay – Balik Pulau) and CT13 (Bayan Baru – Seberang Jaya). He said two vans for the Bertam zone would connect commuters with routes 601 (Penang Sentral – Kepala Batas), 606 (Bukit Mertajam – Kepala Batas) and 610 (Kepala Batas – Tasek Gelugor) to reduce waiting time for these routes. “The Balik Pulau zone will also have two vans for the first and last mile access with existing bus routes, namely routes 401E (Balik Pulau – Weld Quay), 403 (Balik Pulau – Pulau Betong), 404 (Balik Pulau – Pantai Acheh) and 502 (Genting Town, Balik Pulau – Weld Quay). “The Transkrian or Nibong Tebal zone also involves two vans that will operate specifically in the Transkrian area to connect communities with the Rapid Penang bus service network, while three vans will be for the Batu Kawan zone, which is an industrial, commercial and residential hub that has yet to have a public transport network around it,“ he said. – Bernama Ensure livestock health before sacrifice: Exco PORT DICKSON: Individuals or organisations planning to perform qurban (sacrifice) in conjunction with Aidiladha must comply with the conditions and regulations set by the Negeri Sembilan Veterinary Services Department, including ensuring that the livestock has a valid Veterinary Health Certificate. Negeri Sembilan Rural Development, Plantation and Commodities, Agriculture and Food Security and Cost of Living Committee senior chairman Datuk Seri Jalaludin Alias said this is to ensure the animals are free from diseases, Bernama reported He said all parties involved must also ensure any livestock movement is accompanied by a Livestock Transfer Permit and an External Slaughter Permit if the slaughter is to be conducted outside a licensed abattoir. “If all rules and regulations are adhered to, individuals or organisations involved are encouraged to register with the e-qurban system monitored by the Negeri Sembilan Islamic Religious Affairs Department. “The state government wants to ensure that the sacrificial rites are carried out in a more orderly manner,” he said after officiating at the closing ceremony of the Women Empowerment and Rural Education Tour programme at the Port Dickson District and Land Office auditorium on Tuesday.

GEORGE TOWN: Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd (Rapid Bus) will expand its Rapid Penang On-Demand service through a three-month Proof of Concept (POC) phase starting May 31, involving seven zones. Prasarana Malaysia Berhad group chief operating officer (operations) Amir Hamdan said the seven zones were identified based on local demand, population density and the need to improve connectivity. He said the first zone – the Alma zone – will be serviced by four vans to connect passengers with existing bus routes such as (No.) 708 (Bukit Mertajam – Junjung), 801 (Penang Sentral – Nibong Tebal) and 802 (Bukit Mertajam – Nibong Tebal). “Next, the BM (Bukit Mertajam) City zone will operate with three vans in the Central Seberang Perai town centre, which provides a solution for first and last mile access as well as through better interconnection with the existing bus network. “This involves routes 606 (Bukit Mertajam – Kepala Batas), 701 (Bukit Mertajam – Penang Sentral), 702 (Bukit Mertajam – Penang Sentral), 707 (Bukit Mertajam – Taman Pelangi), 708 (Bukit Mertajam – Junjung), 709 (Penang Sentral – Machang Bubuk), 802 (Bukit Mertajam – Nibong Tebal) and CT14 (Bukit Mertajam – Komtar),” he said in a statement on Tuesday. Amir said the Bayan Baru zone was used in the project sank into the ground during the blast. It has since been located but has yet to be retrieved. In response to the tragedy, the Selangor state government allocated RM6,000 in rental assistance for three months to 445 eligible families. Further aid for rental extensions is expected in July or August, according to Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming also announced that RM40 million has been allocated to support repairs and reconstruction for affected homes. The amount of aid provided will depend on the extent of damage sustained. Homes that suffered over 40% damage and require complete rebuilding are eligible for up to RM300,000. For houses with more than 40% damage but not in need of full reconstruction, the maximum assistance is RM150,000. Properties with less than 40% damage can receive up to RM30,000. Sime Darby, the master developer of Putra Heights, has been tasked with supporting restoration work, while SPNB is overseeing the reconstruction of homes in Kampung Kuala Sungai Baru.

Kamisah said her family hopes to return to the area – even with its proximity to the pipeline. “Rent is cheaper there, and it’s a much more peaceful environment. After the incident, we and our neighbours became even closer,” she said. Another affected resident, civil servant Aziah Puteh Azib, 55, shared a similar experience. Her late father’s house in Kampung Kuala Sungai Baru was completely destroyed in the blast, forcing her and her husband to relocate to Bandar Sri Damansara. “The residents have met Syarikat Perumahan Negara Berhad (SPNB), which has been appointed to rebuild homes in our village,” she said. Although grateful, Aziah admitted that the new house won’t match the sentimental value of the original, which was built using rare timber that is no longer available in Malaysia. “We asked around and were told that the kind of wood used back then can only be sourced from Singapore,” she added. Aziah also chose not to speculate on the contractor’s identity. According to previous reports, the contractor had been conducting earthworks just 30m from the explosion site. An excavator which

o In addition to being displaced, affected individuals have not received conclusive information about cause of explosion

Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

“We might find some closure if someone would just take responsibility for the devastation that has impacted so many of us,” she said. Since the incident, Kamisah and her family have been displaced. They are currently living in a flat near Shah Alam, after a brief stay in a rented Airbnb unit arranged by her father-in-law. “My father-in-law introduced us to the owner. The unit was actually up for sale, but the owner agreed to rent it to us temporarily because of our circumstances. “Thankfully, our children’s schools are nearby. My husband drops them off on his way to work, and I pick them up later. They’re in their final year of school, so we’re really reluctant to move them,” she added. Her eldest child is 17, the second is 12, and the youngest is four. Their previous home in Kampung Kuala Sungai Baru was severely damaged and rendered uninhabitable. Despite the trauma,

PETALING JAYA: Nearly three months after a devastating explosion in Putra Heights that shattered lives on the second day of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, residents are still grappling with unanswered questions and an uncertain future. Kamisah Khamis, 48, told t heSun although she and her family have resumed their daily routines, they have yet to recover from the trauma of watching their home go up in flames. When asked whether any authorities had reached out to the affected residents, she said no one had come forward to explain what caused the explosion or who was responsible. “There have been some discussions in our WhatsApp group – we’ve talked about compensation and other matters. But one thing is still unclear – my family and I have no idea who the contractor was.

Rapid Penang on-demand service expands to 7 zones

HISTORICAL DRAW ... Australian tourist Patrick Anderson viewing the tomb of Captain Francis Light, founder of the British settlement in Penang, at the Old Protestant Cemetery in George Town.

Asean heritage nominations for two Sarawak national parks

KUCHING: Bako National Park in Kuching and Bukit Lambir National Park in Miri have been nominated as Asean Heritage Park sites, said Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan. Awang Tengah, who is also state second minister of Natural Resources and Urban Development, said the nomination had been assessed by the Asean Centre for Biodiversity. “The results are expected to be announced in September,” he said

during the winding-up session at the state legislative assembly sitting yesterday. He added that the nomination followed the recognition of the Niah National Park cave complex in Miri as a World Archaeological Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation last year. Awang Tengah said the Sarawak government has gazetted 2.1 million hectares as total protection areas,

comprising 874,000 hectares of land and 1.2 million hectares of marine waters. “The Sarawak Forestry Corporation has also signed memoranda of understanding with the Sarawak Infectious Disease Centre for zoonotic disease studies, the Sarawak Biodiversity Centre for technical cooperation on biodiversity and the Universiti Malaya for genetic research.“ – Bernama

THURSDAY | MAY 29, 2025 5 Mass arrests in anti-trafficking, gambling raids KUALA LUMPUR: The Criminal Investigation Department at Bukit Aman continues to intensify efforts to tackle various forms of crime through several large-scale operations carried out in the early part of the year. Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said one of the major successes was the execution of Operasi Pintas Mega, led by the Anti Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Division in collaboration with police contingents nationwide in February. The operation also involved strategic cooperation with other agencies, including the Immigration Department, Labour Department and local authorities. “During the operation, a total of 45 raids were conducted, resulting in the arrest of 249 individuals and the rescue of 144 victims from human trafficking networks under Section 44 of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 (Act 670). “This achievement demonstrates the Royal Malaysia Police’s dedication and capability in combating human trafficking and migrant smuggling professionally and comprehensively,” he said during the Bukit Aman monthly assembly yesterday. Razarudin also highlighted international cooperation through “Operation Cyber Guardian”, organised by the Singapore Police Force, which included participation from Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea, Thailand and Malaysia. The operation, conducted from Feb 28 to March 28 this year, focused on eradicating online sexual abuse of children. A total of 46 police officers were deployed with support from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission and the K9 Detection Unit to detect electronic devices used to store and distribute prohibited materials via peer-to-peer platforms and the Telegram app. Four individuals – an accountant, a web designer, a telecommunications industry worker and a civil servant – were arrested, with more than 50,000 pieces of child sexual abuse material seized. All suspects are being investigated under the Child Act 2001, the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017 and the Penal Code. The arrests highlight the serious threat posed by cyber sexual crimes targeting vulnerable groups and reaffirm the department’s commitment to combatting such offences. In other developments, Razarudin said the department has intensified its crackdown on illegal gambling through Operasi Dadu Khas, which saw 6,719 raids conducted. A total of 8,603 individuals were arrested and 3,464 electronic devices, including computers, tablets and mobile phones, were seized along with over RM1.6 million in cash. He said the effort reflects the police’s firm stance and zero tolerance towards illegal gambling activities that threaten public safety. – Bernama Police seek public help to find missing girl KUALA LUMPUR: Police are appealing for public assistance in locating a 14-year-old girl reported missing in Petaling Jaya since May 15. Petaling Jaya district police chief ACP Shahrulnizam Ja’afar said a report on the disappearance of Angel Ho Kha Suen was received at 8.36pm on May 19. The fair-skinned teenager, who is 160 centimetres tall with straight brown hair down to her waist, was last seen at Jalan 21/33, Seapark, Petaling Jaya, at 2pm on May 15. “Members of the public with information regarding the individual are requested to come forward to the nearest police station.” Information can also be shared by contacting the Petaling Jaya district police headquarters district control centre at 03-79662222. – Bernama

‘Treat AI-generated child abuse material as real crime’

o Experts warn of rising digital exploitation, urge stronger laws, parent education and cohesive national response

systematically integrated into school curricula, leaving many parents without adequate guidance. “A structured public awareness campaign would go a long way in helping families take preventative measures.” Universiti Malaya cybersecurity specialist Dr Nor Badrul Anuar Jumaat said the rise of generative AI has significantly altered the landscape of online exploitation. “With advanced tools such as OpenAI’s Sora, Google’s Veo and image generators such as Midjourney and Stable Diffusion, criminals can now produce realistic fake images or videos using nothing more than simple text prompts.” He added that photographs of children shared on social media can be misused and manipulated with AI voice cloning tools, such as www.elevenlabs.io and www.vo3ai.com. Dr Badrul said one of the most immediate solutions lies in educating parents. “Parents must understand that even ordinary photos, such as a child in school uniform or at home, can reveal too much. Once online, this content can be copied, altered and repurposed.” He advised parents to exercise caution by adjusting privacy settings, avoiding posts with location or identifying details, and involving their children in decisions about what content is shared. He also recommended educational resources such as the MCMC’s Klik Dengan Bijak campaign and UMCybersafe as valuable tools to raise awareness on the issue.

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

including digital forms. Chan warned normalising AI-generated CSAM through entertainment or social media risks eroding public understanding of what constitutes a criminal offence. “There’s a perception that if it’s not real, then it’s not a big deal. However, if it involves a child and is sexual in nature, it is a crime. The creation or distribution of deepfake child pornography must be met with the full force of the law.” Following Chan’s statement, theSun spoke with two cybersecurity experts, both of whom highlighted the growing dangers of AI in public spaces. Global Centre for Cyber Safety director Assoc Prof Datuk Dr Husin Jazri described AI-generated CSAM as a “real and formidable” threat, driven by the increasing accessibility of generative AI tools. While Malaysia has multiple cybersecurity agencies, he said there is a need for a more cohesive and proactive approach. “Such cases often go unnoticed because we lack a centralised body focused specifically on digital safety for individuals. A dedicated centre based at a university could lead research, education and policy development, provided it receives the necessary support.” He added that cyber safety has yet to be that

PETALING JAYA: The use of artificial intelligence (AI) to create child sexual abuse material (CSAM) must be treated with the same severity as physical abuse, said MCA information chief Chan Quin Er. She said there is no such thing as “fake” child abuse when AI-generated images depict minors in sexually explicit situations. Such content still constitutes a criminal offence under existing Malaysian laws. “Whether the image is real, digitally altered or entirely computer-generated, once it portrays a child in a sexual context, it amounts to a clear act of violation,” she said in a statement. Chan cited several legal frameworks that address such offences, including the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017, which criminalises the creation, possession or distribution of CSAM regardless of whether it is AI-generated. She also referred to Section 292 of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act, both of which cover the circulation of obscene content. In addition, she highlighted the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2022, which encompasses a broader definition of sexual harassment,

Zakaria said the syndicate’s modus operandi involved promoting grooming and facial treatment services for men while discreetly offering sexual services. – PIC COURTESY OF IMMIGRATION DEPT

Grooming centre used as prostitution den busted

Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

The department found that the foreign women, who had been operating in the area for the past two years, earned up to RM1,500 per day by providing sexual services to both local and foreign male clients. “Three foreign men and 45 foreign women from Vietnam, Indonesia, Bangladesh and Laos, aged between 23 and 35, were detained for various offences. Also detained were three local men suspected of acting as ‘guardians’,” he said in a statement issued Tuesday night. The detainees are being investigated for offences under the Immigration Act 1959/63, the Passport Act 1966 and the Immigration Regulations 1963. They are currently being held at the Bukit Jalil Immigration Depot pending further action. Zakaria revealed that the syndicate’s modus

operandi involved promoting grooming and facial treatment services for men while discreetly offering sexual services as part of the packages. Customers would book appointments via the WeChat messaging app, through which they were also provided with a catalogue of available foreign women. Each session reportedly cost between RM150 and RM250, depending on the type of service selected. “The premises operated daily from 3pm to 2am. All the foreign women involved in the illegal activities were housed on-site, where dormitory-style rooms had been set up to accommodate them.” During the raids, investigators caught several of the women serving customers.

PETALING JAYA: A prostitution syndicate operating under the guise of men’s grooming services was dismantled following two coordinated raids by the Immigration Department in Kuchai Lama and Bandar Sri Petaling on May 26. Immigration director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban said a total of 59 individuals were inspected during the operation, including three men, 45 foreign women and 11 local citizens. The raids, which began at 6pm, were conducted by 38 enforcement officers from the Putrajaya Immigration Enforcement Division after two weeks of surveillance.

THURSDAY | MAY 29, 2025

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6

Filial duty driven by love

‘Comply with rules to avoid consequences’ KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians planning to perform haj are reminded to comply with procedures set by the Saudi government, as failure to do so could result not only in individual penalties but also impact the nation. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said Saudi Arabia had previously suspended pilgrims from 14 countries due to visa violations. “I have issued this warning many times before. Don’t let our stubbornness and breaking of rules set by the Saudi government cause problems for other pilgrims now and in the future. “If this happens again, it’s not just the individual who will face consequences, but the entire country may be affected. This includes a possible reduction or suspension of our haj quota,” he said after launching the Al-Falah Pavilion at the 46th Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair on Tuesday. He was commenting on media reports that 63 Malaysians have been deported from Mecca since May 24 for not possessing valid haj visas. Mohd Na’im said such violations could also lead to severe consequences for the individuals involved, including fines of up to 100,000 Saudi riyal (RM113,094) and being blacklisted from entering the kingdom for at least five years. However, he said Lembaga Tabung Haji has not received any official complaints regarding the deportations. On reports of alcohol parties held at two five-star hotels in Malacca, Mohd Na’im said such events were inappropriate under Islamic law, especially at hotels with halal certifications. “The organisation of events that go against Islamic teachings should be subjected to action by relevant authorities.” Earlier, Malacca Education, Higher Education and Religious Affairs Committee chairman Datuk Rahmad Mariman said the state Islamic Religious Department had revoked the Malaysian Halal Certification for two hotels in Banda Hilir, after they were found to have hosted alcohol parties. – Bernama

MECCA: Driven by love and a deep sense of duty, Mohd Rodzi Che Noh did not think twice about setting aside his personal commitments to accompany his mother on her long-awaited pilgrimage to perform the haj . The 38-year-old administrative assistant at Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital is the youngest of seven siblings and is determined to ensure his mother, Sofiah Talib, 76, completes her pilgrimage in comfort and peace of mind. “As a son, I feel it is my duty to help my mother realise this dream she has held on to for so long. This is my way of repaying her for all the sacrifices she made raising us with love and without a single complaint. “No words can describe this feeling, but I promised myself I would be there to make sure everything goes smoothly for her. That is my dream too,” said Mohd Rodzi, who is from Alor Setar in Kedah. He shared that his mother had been saving whatever she could from her husband’s small padi field earnings since she was 45, all in preparation for this spiritual journey. Despite her limited mobility due to age, Mohd Rodzi said his mother’s unwavering spirit continues to inspire him. He added that his father, who was supposed to accompany his mother, passed away in 2023, leaving him as the only hope to accompany her, a stage two breast cancer survivor, on the pilgrimage. Sofiah, who appeared composed during the interview, expressed gratitude for finally being able to realise her dream and for being declared cancer-free in 2021. “ Alhamdulillah , I’m happy to have someone with me. If I had to go alone, I don’t think I could do it because I am not used to being on my own,” she said. As the mother and son embark on their sacred journey, they are joined by thousands of others who carry their own stories of devotion and transformation. o Man accompanies 76-year-old mother to ensure long-awaited haj pilgrimage performed in comfort

Mohd Rodzi and Sofiah visiting a shop in Mecca. – BERNAMAPIC

Among them is Mohd Saufi Lim Abdullah, 71,who has finally set foot on the Holy Land to fulfil the fifth pillar of Islam 36 years after embracing Islam. Born Kris Lim and of Baba and Nyonya heritage, Mohd Saufi described his conversion as the most profound spiritual turning point in his life. From the moment he accepted Islam, the dream of performing the haj became a goal he carried in his heart. “I was overwhelmed with emotion and thought, why wasn’t I told earlier that Islam is the truth, that it helps us to better ourselves. Islam is not just a set of teachings but a way of life. It taught me how to be a better human being,” he told Bernama when met at Abraj Al Tayseer here recently. Mohd Saufi, who lives in Bintulu, Sarawak, said he experienced a watershed moment when he was 35 and active as a preacher of another faith involved in overseas missions, including the Philippines. “When the economy took a downturn, I was sent to a house of worship in Johor Bahru.

“I became friends with Malay youths who showed me the beauty of Islam. They set a good example, which drew me in.” He said before he accepted the Islamic faith, he had a strange dream that marked his spiritual journey, in which he saw himself caught in a struggle between his former beliefs and the Islamic faith. “I dreamt that I had one foot on a boat while the other was on a jetty. The boat represented my former religion and the sturdy jetty symbolised Islam,” he added. Mohd Saufi recited the syahadah (declaration of faith) at the Johor Islamic Religious Council office in 1989, a month after his dream. “I am the eldest of 10 siblings. Seven of us have (embraced) Islam. Among my main prayers in front of the Kaabah is for all my family members who have yet to accept Islam to receive guidance toward the right path. “I pray Allah makes me a beacon to guide them to Islam. “That was my vow when I first laid eyes on the Kaabah because my family is my greatest love,” he said.

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THURSDAY | MAY 29, 2025

7

Asean, GCC, China commit to strengthening cooperation

BLOC MUST STEP UP: SINGAPORE PM SINGAPORE: Asean has to step up, work together and fashion a place for itself in this changed world or risk losing its relevance, said Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong after concluding his visit to Malaysia for the 46th Asean Summit and Related Summits. He said there was a clear sense of renewed urgency among Asean leaders to advance the bloc’s integration efforts, and the adoption of the Asean Community Vision 2045 is an important, positive step in that direction. – Bernama CABINET MEETING BEFORE ELECTION SEOUL: Acting President Lee Ju-ho led the final Cabinet meeting before the June 3 presidential election yesterday, saying he is sorry that the administration’s work had to be cut short three years into its term, Yonhap News Agency reported. “I hope that (the next government) will develop our achievements while taking lessons from our faults.”Lee also highlighted the work of the previous administration in pursuing reforms in the national pension system, healthcare, education and labour. “Still, the people will assess that they fell short. We must humbly accept criticism for the areas that were lacking.” – Bernama-Yonhap THAIS, CAMBODIANS EXCHANGE GUNFIRE BANGKOK: Thai and Cambodian armed forces yesterday exchanged gunfire at their shared border, military officials said. The Thai army said the clash happened after Cambodian soldiers started firing near Ubon Ratchathani province in Thailand’s east. This led to an exchange lasting around 10 minutes before the Cambodians requested a ceasefire. A Cambodian army spokesperson said Thai soldiers attacked Cambodian troops on border patrol duty. Neither side had casualties. – AFP

BR I E F S

KUALA LUMPUR: Asean, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and China have reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepen cooperation across broad areas, charting a united and collective path towards a peaceful, prosperous and equitable future. Their leaders, in a joint statement issued after the inaugural tripartite summit on Tuesday, reiterated their collective resolve to work hand-in-hand to unlock the full potential of the partnership, and to ensure this cooperation translates into tangible benefits for the peoples and communities. On economic integration, the leaders committed to enhancing industrial and supply chain resilience, and fostering sustainable trade practices for new economic o Leaders to ensure partnership translates into tangible benefits for communities

disaster management, biodiversity conservation, marine protection and pollution control, as well as to pursue opportunities in digital innovation and technology by exploring a cross-regional framework and partnerships to promote the digital economy, including digital trade, e-commerce, fintech and artificial intelligence. The joint statement said the parties agreed to explore cooperation in the halal food sector and support efforts to strengthen food security, advancing food trade and agricultural technologies cooperation. They also aimed to forge greater people-to-people understanding through culture, education and tourism, the statement added. The leaders agreed to implement the outcomes of their engagement through mutually agreed-upon initiatives and existing mechanisms. On a separate topic, the leaders condemned attacks against civilians in Gaza and called for all parties to the conflict to refrain from targeting them. They jointly called for a lasting ceasefire, according to the statement.

saving in all Asean countries, especially with the help of existing information sharing platforms such as Price Information Exchange for Medicines. “Mutual understanding needs to be strengthened among Asean member states and between the private and government sectors in every member state,” the declaration said, Bernama reported. It added that Asean health ministers have been tasked to cooperate with other ministers, relevant sectoral bodies and stakeholders to implement the declaration, mobilise resources, and monitor and report on progress. They urged for unhindered access for humanitarian aid, basic necessities and restoration of essential services in Gaza, and to enable the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees to carry out its humanitarian works in the area. The leaders expressed grave concerns over the developments and agreed to support ongoing efforts to release all hostages and those under arbitrary detention, it said. They urged all parties concerned to work towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict, with a view of realising the two-state solution based on the pre-1967 borders. They also agreed to support the efforts of the global alliance for the implementation of the two-state solution, noting Saudi Arabia’s initiatives to cooperate with Norway and the European Union towards realising an independent Palestinian state. They also recognised Qatar’s mediation efforts for a ceasefire and facilitating aid delivery, as well as China’s efforts towards Palestinian internal reconciliation. – Bernama

opportunities in potential areas in emerging and future-oriented industries, such as the digital and green economy and technologies. They also agreed to explore the establishment of a regional business council to facilitate dialogue between businesses from Asean, GCC and China in supporting enhanced trade and investment flows and the development of regional value chains. The agreement also looks to enhance connectivity through promoting high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative and sustainable infrastructure development that is meant to support interconnected economic diversification, growth and long-term sustainability. According to the statement, the leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation on energy security and sustainability through knowledge sharing and collaboration in areas such as renewable and clean energy and green technology. They also pledged to promote environmental sustainability through joint efforts in climate action,

Member states pledge to improve drug security KUALA LUMPUR: Asean member states have declared commitment to strengthening regional cooperation to improve drug security through the Asean Drug Security and Self-Reliance (ADSSR) initiative and the Framework on Regional Collaboration for ADSSR. In a declaration adopted at the 46th Asean Summit on Monday, member states committed to strengthening the continuum of life cycle of medicines from production, registration, procurement and distribution. “This may be achieved through an enhanced platform of communication and data sharing related to this priority to ensure successful collaboration across all domains,” the declaration said. It emphasised the alignment of regulatory pathways among Asean member states and collaboration in the procurement and supply of pharmaceutical products, especially during public health emergencies. unregistered products during public health emergencies in some countries. Asean countries also pledged to cooperate on research and development for new medicines targeting diseases unique to the region, and to collaborate on the manufacturing of needed medicines that meet quality standards within member states.

They reaffirmed the potential collaboration on the development of a regional medicine pooled procurement system, considering possible regional limitations. “This is essential to increase negotiation power and maximise cost

It said this would ensure an uninterrupted and timely supply of pharmaceutical products among member states, adding that regulations and legislations should be in place to allow the use of

This is to ensure an uninterrupted supply chain and availability of safe, efficacious and quality-assured medicines at all times.

Fallout fears after deadly China chemical blast GAOMI: Residents near a blown out chemical plant in China’s eastern Shandong province yesterday

Indonesia, France to boost defence ties JAKARTA: Indonesia and France sought to deepen their strategic defence ties with the signing of a Letter of Intent during French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Jakarta yesterday, officials said. The agreement aims to expand cooperation in defence, particularly in the area of strategic weapons systems, said Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin after welcoming Macron and First Lady Brigitte. “We will be enhancing defence cooperation, especially in relation to strategic defence equipment.” Macron is scheduled to travel to the Military Academy in Magelang, Central Java, where he will inspect French language training facilities for Indonesian military personnel. “He will visit the French language laboratory used by soldiers, officers and non-commissioned officers of the Indonesian Armed Forces,” said Sjafrie. – Bernama

assessed the damage to their village and monitored the wind, fearful of toxic fallout from an explosion that killed at least five people a day earlier. Smoke was still rising from the smouldering facility as emergency services continued to tend to the site. Local officials have not yet released the results of air quality tests. The blast happened just before noon on Tuesday at a plant operated by Shandong Youdao Chemical in the city of Gaomi, sending plumes of smoke into the sky and littering the roadside with debris for more than a kilometre. Nineteen people were injured and six remain missing, according to the state-run Xinhua news agency. Yu Qianming, a 69-year-old farmer, showed Reuters roofing that

The badly damaged plant after

the explosion. – REUTERSPIC

had fallen in and windows that had shattered, but said nobody in his home had suffered any injuries. He said he and his wife felt safe in their home as long as

the wind continued to blow north, but added that they had moved their grandchild elsewhere as a precaution. The plant develops and produces

chemical

components

for and pharmaceuticals, employing more than 300 people on a site of more than 47ha. – Reuters use in pesticides