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Report on — page 2 Israelis found in M’sia to be deported immediately: PM Comment comes in wake of claims Zionists with dual citizenship present in country.

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

SCAN ME No. 9214 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

Plan to cut rural-urban gap Report on h page 3 Govt aiming to reduce SPM achievement disparity between localities in move to improve education equality.

Through the initiative, temples can continue serving as community centres by holding religious classes, personal development camps and empowerment programmes. – HIMANSHU BHATT/THESUN p p g

Through Mitra, govt also boosting support for Indian community via early educational subsidy aid programme. RM12m Dharma Madani funds allocated to 627 Hindu temples

Aminuddin ready to contest BN stronghold Linggi PH caretaker MB in N. Sembilan seeks mandate to bring economic prosperity to constituency.

Report on — page 2

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THURSDAY | JULY 16, 2026

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N. Sembilan caretaker MB to contest in BN stronghold o State PH chief confident of winning Linggi seat, pledges development push for constituency

National Day celebrations to be modest yet patriotic IPOH: The launch of National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang, in conjunction with National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations, will be modest yet deeply patriotic. The event, scheduled at the Health Ministry’s Training Institute Sultan Azlan Shah in Tanjung Rambutan this Sunday, will follow a different concept from previous years, said Information Department Communications and Community Development Division director Muhammad Najmi Mustapha. “While we held large-scale open events for the public in Muar, Johor last year and in Cyberjaya in 2024, we have chosen a more modest approach this time. “This decision takes into account global challenges, including the energy supply crisis and ongoing conflicts in West Asia. “Although it will be an indoor event, we want the festive spirit of the celebration to still be felt by the public,” he said on Tuesday. He said the event is expected to be launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, beginning at 10am, Bernama reported. It will be broadcast live on Radio Televisyen Malaysia and Bernama, and will also be streamed on the Facebook Live pages of Merdeka360, the Communications Ministry and Information Department. “We want to ensure the spirit of patriotism among the public continues to be nurtured. “This launch ceremony opens the way for programmes and activities across the country to enliven the National Month celebrations,” he said, adding that updates would be provided periodically via the Merdeka 360 portal and the department’s social media platforms. Muhammad Najmi said the “1 Rumah 1 Jalur Gemilang” campaign would continue this year as a key initiative to boost National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations and encourage the public to express patriotism by flying the national flag. He elaborated that the campaign, introduced a few years ago, has expanded to include two new clusters involving houses of worship and sports, alongside the existing seven clusters comprising education, higher education, health, security, community, industry and government agencies. He encouraged Malaysians to show patriotism on social media by using the Jalur Gemilang as profile pictures and sharing content related to National Month celebrations using the hashtags #HKHM2026, #MalaysiaMadani, #Merdeka360 as well as #KesejahteraanDinikmati. Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil had previously announced that the theme “Malaysia Madani: Kesejahteraan Dinikmati” has been chosen for this year’s celebrations, while the Malaysia Madani logo remains the official logo of the celebration until next year. The celebration will be held at Dataran Putrajaya on Aug 31 on a modest yet vibrant scale.

SEREMBAN: Negeri Sembilan Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun is ready to shoulder the challenge of contesting the Linggi state seat, the Barisan Nasional (BN) stronghold, in the 16th state election. He said his confidence in securing victory in Linggi is driven by his determination to ensure the constituency is not left behind in development, given its proximity to Port Dickson, which is growing as the state’s tourism and economic hub. “I am confident we can develop Linggi into a more prosperous area in the future. The planned port and industrial developments would bring prosperity and ensure the people of Linggi are not left behind. “The Linggi constituency is a BN stronghold and I will be contesting there to ensure victory. Nothing is impossible,” he told reporters after the PH candidate announcement ceremony at Dataran Melang in Kuala Pilah on Tuesday. The Negeri Sembilan caretaker menteri besar, who is also Port Dickson MP, said victory in the Linggi state constituency would enable him to draw closer to local residents and have a better PETALING JAYA: The Senior Citizens Bill should include robust safety provisions to protect older Malaysians from abuse, neglect, scams and unsafe living conditions as the country moves towards becoming an ageing nation, said Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye. The Senior Citizen Advisory Council member said senior citizens are increasingly vulnerable to physical, social, financial and digital threats, making comprehensive legal protection essential. He said the proposed legislation should recognise every senior citizen’s right to live in a safe, secure and dignified environment, free from abuse, neglect, exploitation and discrimination. He called for the Bill to establish clear mechanisms for the prevention, reporting, investigation and prosecution of elder abuse, including physical, emotional, financial and sexual abuse, as well as neglect. “The Bill should also protect senior citizens from financial scams, fraud and cybercrime through stronger safeguards, awareness programmes and accessible reporting channels. “As Malaysia moves towards becoming an ageing nation, ensuring the safety and security of senior citizens must be a key pillar of the Senior Citizens Bill.” Lee also urged the government to promote age-friendly public infrastructure, including safer pedestrian facilities, barrier-free access, adequate lighting, as well as public transport and housing designed to reduce the risk of falls and injuries. He said minimum safety standards should be made mandatory for residential care homes and long-term care facilities, backed by regular inspections and licensing requirements. Lee proposed strengthening community-based support systems such as neighbourhood watch programmes, emergency response services and Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

to contest the Sikamat seat, is determined to continue the legacy of service built by Aminuddin throughout his four terms, while ensuring the people’s welfare agenda continues to be strengthened. “I will do my best to continue the work carried out previously and defend this PKR stronghold for the formation of the Negeri Sembilan government,” he pledged. In the 15th state election, Aminuddin secured 12,730 votes to retain the Sikamat seat with a majority of 2,662 votes, defeating a Perikatan Nasional candidate and two independent candidates. The Election Commission has set Saturday as nomination day for the Negeri Sembilan election, followed by early voting on July 28 and polling day on Aug 1.

understanding of their needs. Aminuddin appealed for the support and blessings of Linggi voters to continue the development agenda and ensure the area enjoys the abundance of development projects planned by the state government. He also expressed appreciation to the voters of the Sikamat state constituency for placing their trust in him for four consecutive terms since 2008, Bernama reported. “To the voters of the Sikamat state constituency, I would like to say thank you. I am deeply indebted to them. I care about them, and to this day they have continued to support me. I am confident they will also support our new candidate.” Meanwhile, Aminuddin’s political secretary Nor Azman Mohamad, who has been nominated

Senior Citizens Bill must include safety provisions: Advisory council member

Lee said minimum safety standards should be made mandatory for residential care homes and long-term care facilities, backed by regular inspections and licensing requirements. – MASRY CHE ANI/THE SUN

Malaysians, enabling them to age with dignity, confidence and security.” In May, Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the ministry is working towards tabling the Senior Citizens Bill at the next Parliament sitting, stressing that the legislation is urgently needed despite delays caused by ongoing stakeholder consultations.

welfare outreach initiatives, particularly for seniors living alone. He also stressed the importance of public education campaigns to encourage respect and care for senior citizens while fostering intergenerational responsibility. “By incorporating these safety provisions, the Senior Citizens Bill would better safeguard the rights, wellbeing and quality of life of older

Malaysia to deport any Israelis found in country: Anwar KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will not compromise and will deport any Israeli nationals found entering the country as it has a clear policy of not recognising Israel, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said all relevant security agencies are conducting a thorough probe into allegations that Israeli nationals have been detected in Malaysia. “We are investigating. We will not allow it. If there are any, action must be taken. If there are Israeli nationals, since we do not recognise Israel, they will be deported immediately.” He was commenting on media reports alleging

that Israeli nationals using dual citizenship documents have been found in Johor. Anwar said the matter is being handled by authorities and expressed confidence that the relevant ministry would provide further details. – Bernama

THURSDAY | JULY 16, 2026

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No cut to subsidies

BRIDGING SKILLS GAP THE Serian

Advanced Technology Training Centre is partnering with industry players including Daikin to train youths in refrigeration and air-conditioning technology and improve their chances of securing jobs after graduation. Human Resources Deputy Minister Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan said the government was expanding access to skilled, competitively paid jobs in rural areas so youths could secure quality employment without having to migrate to major cities. 53 ‘SICK’ PROJECTS IN 1ST QUARTER A TOTAL of 53 Public Works Department projects were classified as sick as of the first quarter of 2026, representing 6.18% of all ongoing construction projects nationwide. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said in a written parliamentary reply on July 14 that 17 contracts had been terminated, with replacement contractors appointed, while no projects were classified as abandoned. BOOSTING CONNECTIVITY TO reduce internet disruptions, telecommunication providers have stepped up measures by introducing backup links, alternative routing and round the-clock network monitoring. Communications Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching said the measures are aimed at mitigating outages caused by network congestion, fibre cuts, cable theft, wildlife and transmission failures. She added that steel trunking is also being installed at high-risk telecommunications towers, while infrastructure upgrades continue under the National Digital Network Plan or Jendela. EXPLORING NUCLEAR OPTIONS MALAYSIA has begun a phased assessment of nuclear energy as a long-term electricity source, marking an early step in evaluating its future energy mix. Energy Transition and Water Transformation Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad said any decision to build a nuclear power plant would only be made after all prerequisites had been met and the technology was proven to be safe, viable and beneficial.

BR I E F S

PETALING JAYA: The government has no intention of cutting current subsidies, even as petroleum subsidy expenditure is expected to reach almost RM40 billion this year, said Deputy Finance Minister Liew Chin Tong. Liew said the government saw no immediate need to revisit its 2026 fiscal projections based on its Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI AND FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o Govt stands firm despite petroleum expenditure bill expected to hit nearly RM40b, says Finance deputy minister

highlighted operations had 10 syndicates in the Klang Valley and Johor, leading to the arrest of 29 local agents and the rescue of 40 victims. “The ministry will not compromise on enforcement and will continue taking firm action under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 and the Penal Code against masterminds or local agents found collaborating with international syndicates.” dismantled socioeconomic status had narrowed by 57.75%. Wong was responding to Kamal Ashaari (PN-Kuala Krau), who said socioeconomic background remained a major predictor of students’ academic performance despite improvements in reducing disparities. Kamal cited findings from the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) which showed that pupils from higher socioeconomic backgrounds recorded an average Mathematics score of 458, compared with 375 among those from lower income groups. Wong said the new plan would place greater emphasis on ensuring equitable access to quality education, infrastructure and digital resources for schools in both urban and rural areas. “We will ensure that the available resources are distributed fairly and equitably to all schools, whether they are in urban or rural areas.” He added that schools with dilapidated infrastructure would continue to be prioritised based on their needs. Wong said the new education plan is “not merely a continuation” of the previous blueprint but a strategic intervention designed to ensure the national education system remains relevant in a rapidly changing environment. The plan introduces flexibility and sustainability as two new policy thrusts, supported by seven strategic pillars and 49 high-impact initiatives. He said any revision to the government’s 2026 fiscal projections, if required, would be announced during the tabling of Budget 2027 after taking into account the latest economic indicators and revenue and expenditure performance for the first half of this year. “Nevertheless, the government remains confident that the medium term fiscal consolidation trajectory can be maintained through targeted subsidies, the reprioritisation of expenditure, continued efforts to improve spending efficiency, stronger revenue collection and tax compliance.” Liew was responding to Mohd Sany Hamzan (PH-Hulu Langat), who asked whether food subsidies and government aid would be reduced. He said Budi95 kept petrol at RM1.99 per litre even when market prices reached RM5, while ensuring supplies remained stable. “The government will not reduce any of the existing subsidies. That is the government’s position for now.” that enforcement

nearly RM40 billion for 2026, subject to developments in the West Asia crisis,” he said. Liew said this in response to Mohd Syahir Che Sulaiman (PN-Bachok), who asked how the conflict had affected fuel subsidy spending and whether the higher costs could derail the government’s 2026 fiscal deficit target. He further clarified that higher oil prices also increased petroleum related revenue, partially offsetting the additional subsidy burden. He said that every US$1 change in global crude oil prices is estimated to affect federal petroleum-related revenue by about RM300 million, excluding Petronas dividends.

Asia,” he told the Dewan Rakyat during the Ministers’ Question Time, yesterday. Liew said the government incurred almost RM800 million a month in subsidies for RON95 petrol and diesel in January and February before the

financial performance in the first half of the year, although the situation would be reviewed again by October. “For now, based on what we have seen in the first half of 2026, we do not see a need to change the projections.

expenditure surged to about RM5 billion monthly in March and April. The monthly subsidy bill than eased to about RM4 billion in May and June, while oil prices continued

AT THE DEWAN RAKYAT

to moderate in July. “If current market prices remain, the government is expected to bear petroleum product subsidies of

“But when we reach October, we will review the situation, particularly the impact of developments in West

Narrowing urban-rural education divide THE Education Ministry is aiming to slash the academic achievement gap between urban and rural pupils by a further 50% by 2035, building on gains made under the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-2025, which saw the disparity narrow by 26.23% in the 2024 SPM examination. using the average SPM grade based on locality, reflected the ministry’s continued efforts to improve education equality nationwide. Under the Malaysia Education Plan 2026-2035, the ministry is also targeting a 70% reduction in achievement gaps linked to gender and socioeconomic status. “From the equity aspect, we achieved a 26.23% reduction in the achievement gap based on the 2024 SPM average grade according to locality, namely between urban and rural areas.” He said the ministry had also recorded a 52.78% reduction in the gender gap among pupils qualifying for the SPM certificate while the achievement gap based on Education Deputy Minister Wong Kah Woh said the reduction, measured

Wong said the Malaysia Education Plan for 2026-2035 would place greater emphasis on ensuring equitable access to quality education, infrastructure and digital resources for schools in urban and rural areas. – BERNAMAPIC

621 Malaysians rescued from overseas job scams since 2021 THE Home Ministry has revealed that 621 Malaysians were rescued after being duped by overseas employment scam syndicates from 2021 until June 30 this year. intelligence cooperation involving the police, international law enforcement networks and Malaysian diplomatic missions. Emergency Response Network under the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC),” it said in a written parliamentary reply.

had strengthened digital forensic capabilities to identify syndicates, while working with the Digital Ministry and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to remove fake job advertisements and scam platforms. “The National Scam Response Centre together with Bank Negara Malaysia, MCMC and financial institutions, had also been strengthened to enable faster tracing of funds and freezing of mule bank accounts.” At the domestic level, the ministry

The ministry also clarified that the 1,537 cases recorded in the first three months of 2026 referred to domestic part-time job scam cases, rather than overseas job scam cases. For overseas job scams, 21 police reports involving 24 Malaysian victims were received between January and June 30, 2026. “To tackle domestic scams, police

“Cooperation with the Foreign Ministry and Malaysian embassies in Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos and Thailand had helped speed up intelligence sharing, operations and rescue efforts. “Police utilise police-to-police cooperation through Interpol, Aseanapol, the Asean Heads of Specialist Anti-Trafficking Units and the

It said a total of 581 police reports involving 743 Malaysian victims stranded abroad had been recorded during the period, with 122 victims still trapped in Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos, with ongoing efforts being undertaken to bring them home. The ministry said the cases were addressed through cross-border

THURSDAY | JULY 16, 2026

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Over RM12 million allocated to 627 Hindu temples

Bukit Bangkong hiking trail may be reopened IPOH: The Bukit Bangkong recreational area in Chemor may reopen to the public for hiking via its main trail, provided all alternative routes remain closed and safety measures are strictly observed. Perak Science, Environment and Green Technology Committee chairman Teh Kok Lim said the proposal followed a meeting on June 10 involving the Perak Wildlife and National Parks Department, Kampung Tanah Hitam Village Development and Security Committee and police. He added that at the meeting, it was also agreed that wildlife warning signs be installed at the entrance to Bukit Bangkong and advised hikers to begin their climb only after 9am and leave the area before 5pm. “(The department) has no objection to reopening Bukit Bangkong for hiking, provided only the main trail to the summit is accessible and all alternative routes are fully closed. “However, the committee opposed the proposal to reopen the entire hiking area to the public.” Teh said monitoring by the Wildlife Department showed Bukit Bangkong remains an active tiger roaming area, after camera traps captured different tigers on March 13 and April 20. “The animals were identified by comparing the unique stripe patterns on both sides of their bodies. They are estimated to be about three years old, with paw prints measuring approximately 12cm. The images were captured by two camera traps installed at separate locations, one along an alternative trail to the summit and the other near the peak.” He said the department also found tiger paw prints, the carcass of a cow believed to have been killed by a tiger, tracks of barking deer and wild boar, and bear claw marks on trees in the area. Teh said six camera traps remain in operation at three locations identified as active wildlife corridors, while tiger traps continue to be monitored regularly. – Bernama Action on monkey menace at R&R area KUALA KANGSAR: Wild monkey harassment affecting commuters at the Sungai Perak R&R area along the North-South Expressway is being addressed through an operation to reduce human-wildlife conflict. State Science, Environment and Green Technology Committee chairman Teh Kok Lim said the Perak Wildlife and National Parks Department has periodically received complaints about wild monkeys at the R&R area over the past few years. However, he added that a recent surge in reports indicates the animals have grown bolder, approaching visitors for food and disturbing commuters. “Although most incidents involve disruptions such as snatching food and approaching visitors, this situation could pose a safety risk if the public feeds or tries to interact with the wild monkeys. “Therefore, integrated management actions are crucial to mitigating human-wildlife conflict.” He also said abundant, accessible food from human activities, especially visitors feeding the animals, remains a primary factor attracting wild monkeys to the site, and alters their natural behaviour. “This has caused the monkeys to become habituated to the R&R area and dependent on human food sources, increasing the risk of harassment. “We advise the public to refrain from feeding wild monkeys, store food and beverages out of their reach, dispose of food waste in lidded bins and avoid approaching or provoking the monkeys for photographs or feeding.” He urged commuters to notify R&R management if any disruptions occur. – Bernama

“A total of 3,612 children from B40 Indian families will benefit directly, with each child receiving a subsidy of up to RM230. It may not seem like a large amount to some people, but it makes a meaningful difference to B40 families with two or three children.” Since 2023, Mitra has introduced several initiatives for the community, including the Kalvi Madani programme and a dialysis subsidy assistance scheme, in addition to the Dharma Madani programme. “There are those who claim the Madani government has done nothing for the Indian community, that no funding has been channelled and that Mitra is inactive. “Today, I am sharing these facts not to boast, but to ensure that facts prevail over misinformation.” At the event, 120 temple representatives and 117 kindergarten operators from states outside the Southern Zone received approval letters and signed funding agreements involving a combined allocation of RM12.23 million.

temples have been approved to receive a total allocation of RM3.36 million. “Through this initiative, temples can continue serving as community centres by organising religious classes, personal development camps and various community empowerment programmes.” Ramanan’s speech was delivered by Human Resources Ministry deputy secretary general (Operations) Sutekno Ahmad Belon at the Celik Madani 2026 Programme (Series 2) and Dharma Madani Programme (Series 3) yesterday. He added that the Madani government, through the Malaysian Indian Community Transformation Unit (Mitra), is also strengthening educational support for the Indian community through the Early Education Subsidy Assistance Programme (Celik Madani 2026), with an allocation of RM10 million. For 2026, 162 kindergartens have been approved to participate in the programme, receiving a total allocation of RM8.87 million.

PUTRAJAYA: The government has allocated RM12.54 million to 627 Hindu temples approved under the Dharma Madani programme between January and July, said Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan. He said in the first phase of the programme, 162 Hindu temples received RM3.24 million in funding on Jan 27, and a further 297 temples benefited under the second phase, with RM5.94 million disbursed on April 28, Bernama reported. “Today, we are taking another step forward with the third phase, under which 168 Hindu o Govt also aiding Indian community via RM10 million allocation for education subsidy programme: Minister

Zairil said if the mitigation work is delayed for a long period, the erosion risks becoming more serious and spreading inland, affecting permanent structures, public facilities and infrastructure near the coast. – PIC COURTESY OF PENANG STATE EXCO OFFICE FOR INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORT AND DIGITAL

Beach containers installed to control coastal erosion GEORGE TOWN: The installation of beach containers as a mitigation measure against coastal erosion in Batu Ferringhi, particularly in the Lone Pine area, is expected to control the problem for two to three years while awaiting the implementation of a long-term coastal protection project. hotel on July 8 and is expected to be completed by Aug 10.” He also said the implementation of mitigation work previously faced several major challenges that affected the progress of work on site, including tidal and wave conditions and unpredictable weather, as well as access constraints for machinery, which caused most of the work to require double handling methods. structures and beach nourishment methods to reduce erosion rates, stabilise the coastline and sustainably protect infrastructure, public assets and tourist areas in Batu Feringghi. Zairil said the mitigation work involved a total cost of RM500,000, which included site clearing, cutting down fallen trees and the installation of 62 beach containers in five layers, approximately five metres high, to protect an area 44m long at the most critical erosion site.

Penang Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said the medium-term mitigation measures implemented by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) aim to reduce the impact of waves on the coastline, control the erosion rate and protect areas identified as experiencing the most critical erosion. He added that based on a DID technical assessment, the effectiveness of the method depends on weather conditions, waves and natural factors such as tidal movements and extreme weather events, but it is expected to be sufficient as a temporary solution until a comprehensive coastal protection project is implemented. “The installation work of the beach container has begun on the beach in front of a

Zairil said if the mitigation work is delayed for a long period, the erosion risks becoming more serious and spreading inland, affecting permanent structures, public facilities and infrastructure near the coast. He added that the state government, through DID, is also planning a more comprehensive long-term coastal protection project under the 12th Malaysia Plan, which is currently in the consultant appointment phase, to provide detailed designs before construction work begins. He also said the project includes the construction of coastal protection structures, including outfall and erosion protection

“The state government and DID assure that the implementation of mitigation work is planned and carried out with consideration of visitor safety, the continuity of tourism activities and environmental sustainability to ensure Batu Ferringhi remains one of the main tourist destinations in Penang. He added that DID would continue to monitor the implementation of the work to ensure its impact on tourism activities and the environment remains at a minimum level, while also ensuring the beach areas remain safe for public enjoyment pending the long-term beach protection project. – Bernama

THURSDAY | JULY 16, 2026

5 Cops seek Interpol Red Notice for fugitive

o Authorities stepping up efforts to find activist Tamim Dahri over religious provocation case

onwards to Saudi Arabia via Bangkok. However, prosecutors said they had yet to confirm whether he entered Saudi Arabia on a tourist visa or an umrah visa. Tamim is facing a charge under Section 295 of the Penal Code over the alleged desecration of a soolam – a sacred symbol of the Hindu faith – at the site of a former temple in Langkawi. The activist claimed he mistook the object for a piece of rusted metal and was unaware of its significance. The incident sparked outrage among Malaysia’s Hindu community.

current status of efforts to locate and detain the activist. The case dates back to March 17, when the Langkawi magistrate’s court postponed proceedings against Tamim after being informed he had been traced to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The matter was adjourned to May 17, and when he again failed to show up, the court issued a warrant of arrest against him on that date. During the earlier proceedings, the prosecution said Tamim was believed to have crossed into Thailand via the Bukit Kayu Hitam border on March 9, before travelling

He added that checks with the Immigration Department confirmed the activist remains outside the country. “To trace and bring back the suspect to Malaysia, police applied for the cancellation of his passport before submitting a Red Notice application to Interpol on June 8, 2026,” Saifuddin said in a written parliamentary reply, adding that police have also blacklisted Tamim following the arrest warrant issued against him. He was responding to a question from Jelutong MP RSN Rayer on the

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to locate him and bring him back to Malaysia to face a religious provocation case. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the Red Notice application was lodged on June 8, following an earlier move by police to have Tamim’s passport cancelled as part of the wider effort to track him down.

PETALING JAYA: have submitted an application to the International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) for a Red Notice against activist Tamim Dahri Abdul Razak, who is believed to be overseas, as authorities step up efforts Police

Court adjourns hearing over custodial death appeal PUTRAJAYA: The Federal Court adjourned the hearing for a bid by the government and police to appeal a ruling that holds them liable for the custodial death of a gravedigger in 2019. In their application, the government and the police proposed two questions of law for the Federal Court to consider. Mohd Fadzrin was arrested by police during a drug raid on Nov 20, 2019 and remanded for seven days. of RM147,600 and RM50,000 in legal costs. The Court of Appeal dismissed the government and police’s appeal to set aside the High Court’s decision which held them liable for Mohd Fadzrin’s death but reduced the damages to RM97,600.

Probe on student for faking own abduction ALOR SETAR: A 14-year-old student who claimed he had been abducted by two strangers in Kuala Nerang actually fabricated the story to cover up the embarrassment of mistakenly entering the girls’ toilet at his school, police said. Kedah police chief Datuk Adzli Abu Shah said investigations found the boy had lodged a false police report after panicking over the incident, which happened on Sunday. News of his alleged abduction was circulated on social media the following day. “The boy initially claimed that two men had confronted him at a bus stop at about 5.50pm on Sunday, blindfolded and bound him before taking him away in a vehicle. He alleged that his abductors later abandoned him by the roadside,” Adzli Abu told a press conference at the Kedah police headquarters on Tuesday. He said police found the boy in Kota Putra and took him to the police station to lodge a report. However, investigations revealed that after school, the boy had accidentally entered the girls’ toilet near the surau . When he came out, he encountered a female student and fled in panic after being chased by several girls. Feeling embarrassed and distressed, he hitched rides on two motorcycles to different locations before he was found by police. The case is being investigated under Section 182 of the Penal Code for lodging a false police report. – Bernama 100 boxes of illicit liquor seized, two arrested KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 100 boxes of suspected untaxed liquor were seized and two men, including an Indian national, were detained during the Ops Taring Alpha 2 Intra/Inter raid on Jalan Berai, Klang in Selangor. Police General Operations Force (GOF) Battalion 4 commanding officer Supt Amanjit Singh said in the 1pm raid on Tuesday both suspects were arrested while transferring boxes from a lorry into a car under suspicious circumstances. “Upon checking the two vehicles, we found 100 boxes of liquor on which customs duty had not been paid. The total seizure, which includes the lorry, the car and a mobile phone, is estimated at RM409,800.” He added that the raid was carried out by personnel from the Intelligence Branch of GOF Battalion 4 in Semenyih, with cooperation from the Criminal Investigation Division and the Crime Prevention Patrol Unit of the South Klang District Police Headquarters. The suspects and all seized items were taken to the South Klang Selatan District Police Headquarters for further investigations under Customs Act 1967, Immigration Act 1959/63 and the Road Transport Act 1987. – Bernama

The application was scheduled to be heard on Tuesday by a three-member bench comprising Justices Datuk Rhodzariah Bujang, Datuk Che Mohd Ruzima Ghazali and Datuk Azmi Ariffin. However, the proceedings were adjourned after the panel proposed that the case be heard together with another matter involving a death by suicide in detention, as both cases involve similar questions of law. The court fixed July 21 for further case management. In the notice of motion, the government and the police sought leave to appeal against the Court of Appeal’s decision on Jan 26, which upheld the High Court’s ruling that held them liable for the death of Mohd Fadzrin Zaidi.

The court upheld the award of the damages of RM57,600 for loss of dependency, RM30,000 for pain and suffering and RM10,000 in special damages but set aside the RM50,000 in aggravated damages previously awarded by the High Court. The Court of Appeal also dismissed a cross appeal by Fadhelah seeking an increase in aggravated and dependency damages. At the Tuesday proceedings, Senior Federal Counsel Zureen Elina Mohd Dom and Nur Ezdiani Roleb acted for the government and police while lawyers M. Visvanathan, V. Sanjay Nathan and Pushan Qin Nathan represented Fadhelah. – Bernama

He was placed in a lockup at the North Seberang Perai district police headquarters, where he was found hanging in his cell in the early hours of the following day. In 2022, Mohd Fadzrin’s mother Fadhelah Othman filed a suit at the George Town High Court against the police and the government over her son’s death. In May 2024, the High Court allowed her lawsuit, ruling that the police were negligent in failing to prevent Mohd Fadzrin, 29, from committing suicide while in custody, and the government was vicariously liable for negligence. The High Court awarded Fadhelah damages

Syed Ahmad (third from left) listens to a briefing from Pahang National Anti-Drug Agency director Tuan Aman Mustapha (fourth from left) at the Temerloh R&R. – BERNAMAPIC

RTD acts on commercial drivers over drug abuse TEMERLOH: Ten of the 351 commercial vehicle drivers screened by the Pahang Road Transport Department (RTD) during its Integrated Anti-Drug Operation at 10 strategic locations across the state since July 1 have tested positive for drugs. highway concessionaires and the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry. “So far, the 10 drug positive cases detected involved heavy vehicle drivers aged between 29 and 55.

well as one at the Maran enforcement station. Syed Ahmad said most of the drug abuse cases involved methamphetamine and the main factor in taking it was suspected to be to boost energy levels and maintain focus while driving. “The findings prove the need for continuous enforcement operations to ensure that only drivers who are qualified, possess integrity and are free from drug abuse are allowed to operate commercial vehicles on public roads.” He said checks also revealed that one of the drivers who tested positive for drugs had a record of 42 RTD summonses. – Bernama

“Action against them was taken according to the jurisdiction of National Anti-Drugs Agency, while RTD has suspended their Goods Driving Licences pending investigations before further action is taken under the relevant laws,” he told reporters on Tuesday. He also said of the 10 operation locations, five cases were detected at the Temerloh R&R, with two each at the Benta enforcement station and Paloh Hinai enforcement station as

Pahang RTD director Syed Ahmad Khirulanwar Alyahya Syed Abdul Rahman said the operation, now into its 14th day, focused on drivers of commercial, public service and tourism vehicles. He added that it was carried out in collaboration with the National Anti-Drugs Agency, police, Land Public Transport Agency, Computerised Vehicle Inspection Centres,

THURSDAY | JULY 16, 2026

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Passion for traditional blades forged over decades

Upgraded jetty set to spur tourism PASIR PUTEH: The Tok Bali Tourism Jetty, previously used mainly for recreational activities and fishing, has been given a new lease of life after being upgraded into a tourism passenger terminal, a move expected to revitalise the tourism sector and stimulate the local economy. Nasrom Holdings (Travel & Tours) director Datin Syazwani Halim said the company initiated the project after submitting a proposal to the Kelantan government about two years ago to transform the jetty into a passenger terminal serving Pulau Perhentian in neighbouring Terengganu. “The collaboration between Kelantan and Terengganu enabled this project to be realised within about two years after all the required approvals were obtained. “Previously, the jetty was mainly a recreational and fishing spot, but it has now been developed into a tourism terminal linking Tok Bali with Pulau Perhentian, as well as Pulau Redang and Pulau Tengah.” Syazwani said the company invested approximately RM5 million to upgrade the jetty infrastructure and passenger facilities, with part of the service charges collected to be channelled to the local authority. She said the first phase of operations will begin with a 35-minute ferry service from Tok Bali to Pulau Perhentian with three cabin boats, each capable of carrying 28 passengers and fully compliant with Malaysian Marine Department safety specifications for interstate travel. The upgraded jetty is expected to improve tourist access to East Coast island resorts while providing an alternative route that complements existing transport services and generates economic spillover benefits for the local community, she added. Kelantan Tourism, Culture, Arts and Heritage Committee chairman Datuk Kamaruddin Md Noor said the project is in line with the state government policy of strengthening collaboration with the private sector to stimulate economic growth and create more employment opportunities. He said the partnership between the Pasir Puteh district council and Nasrom Holdings serves as an example of effective public private collaboration in developing the state tourism industry. – Bernama

Crafted more than a decade ago, the golok , which is similar to a machete, was forged by a renowned local blacksmith celebrated for producing traditional weapons entirely by hand before his death several years ago. Ahmad, 71, said such handcrafted pieces have become increasingly valuable because each carving reflects the maker’s unique identity, making every blade a distinct work of heritage with its own story. “This golok is the one I cherish most because its carving is exceptionally rare. It also reminds me of the person who introduced me to the art of blacksmithing. “To me, whenever a blacksmith passes away, part of that craft and knowledge disappears too, unless it is passed on to the next generation,”

he told Bernama recently. Ahmad said the golok is far more than a traditional weapon. For centuries, it has served as a versatile tool across the Malay Archipelago, particularly for agricultural work, with each region developing its own distinctive design and identity. He said the bird-shaped hilt not only provides a comfortable grip but also carries historical and artistic significance. “The bird motif reminds me of the Petalawali bird figure found on ancient boats of the Kelantan Sultanate that were once used to deliver the Bunga Emas tribute to Siam,” he said, adding that preserving antique weapons requires meticulous care to prevent deterioration and rust. “I keep them in a dedicated cabinet and inspect each piece every three months, applying oil to the blade to protect it.” Despite receiving interest from collectors, Ahmad said he has never considered selling his collection, as many of the pieces were crafted by blacksmiths who have since died and whose workmanship can no longer be replicated. Ahmad’s fascination with traditional blacksmithing began about 20 years ago when he helped a friend, who was a blacksmith, make weapon hilts and scabbards. “What started with a single golok grew into a deep appreciation for the craft, leading me to collect weapons from Malaysia and abroad,” he said. Today, Ahmad owns more than 100 traditional and modern weapons worth an estimated RM20,000. His collection includes machetes, knives, swords and keris acquired from Germany, Sweden, Denmark, England, the United States, Japan, China, Spain and Portugal. Among his prized possessions are a knife with a deer-antler hilt from Sarawak and a keris crafted from black kemuning wood with a golden kemuning wood hilt. Ahmad expressed hope Malaysia’s traditional weapon-making heritage would continue to thrive through innovation while preserving the identity, artistry and cultural values that define the craft, ensuring the legacy of master blacksmiths is not lost to time.

GUA MUSANG: A golok with a bird-shaped hilt is among the most treasured possessions of retired civil servant Ahmad Abdullah. It symbolises the fading legacy of Kelantan’s traditional blacksmithing, as many master craftsmen have passed away with few successors to carry on their skills. o Collector hopeful legacy of master blacksmiths in weapon-making would not be lost to time

Ahmad has amassed a collection of more than 100 bladed weapons, including some from Germany, Sweden, Denmark, England, the United States, Japan, China, Spain and Portugal. – BERNAMAPIC

THURSDAY | JULY 16, 2026 7 Jakarta cracks down on online gambling JAKARTA: Indonesia has blocked access to about 3.7 million websites and online content linked to online gambling and shut down thousands of bank accounts since late 2024, as authorities intensified a crackdown on the illicit industry. Communication and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid said the government crackdown now extends beyond blocking gambling websites to dismantling the broader ecosystem that supports the illicit activity. “The eradication of online gambling must be carried out comprehensively. It is not enough, nor should it stop, at merely blocking access to websites. It must target the entire ecosystem,” she said at a forum here on Tuesday. Meutya said the broader approach involves closer cooperation between the ministry, Financial Services Authority (OJK), Bank Indonesia, the banking industry and law enforcement agencies to disrupt the financial networks underpinning online gambling. Since late 2024, the ministry and OJK have identified about 38,000 bank accounts suspected of being linked to online gambling, with about 32,500 subsequently closed following a cleansing process. Meutya said blocking gambling websites must be accompanied by cutting off the financial lifelines of online gambling syndicates through the closure of intermediary bank accounts, adding that such collaboration was key to breaking the chain of digital crime. – Bernama Vietnam probes gem smuggling ring HANOI: Vietnamese police are investigating an international diamond syndicate accused of smuggling 28,000 gems worth nearly US$11 million (RM44.7 million), with the country’s largest jeweller caught up in the probe. The former head of Phu Nhuan Jewelry’s (PNJ) gem certification subsidiary was arrested earlier this month along with more than 30 others accused of involvement in a syndicate operating over several years. Police have raided more than 20 establishments, including jewellery stores and homes of the accused, mostly in Ho Chi Minh City, the Public Security Ministry said in a statement on Tuesday. State media reported yesterday that a number of establishments linked to the investigation have suddenly closed. Dang Ngoc Thao, the former director of PNJ Laboratory, is accused of falsely certifying gems sourced in India for resale in Vietnam, removing laser inscriptions and replacing them with the company’s own identification markings. Police have seized 1,239 diamonds in the investigation along with jewellery “for which no invoices or documents proving their origin could be produced”, the ministry said. The suspects used sophisticated methods to source diamonds from India and ship them via Hong Kong into Vietnam, it added. PNJ said it “acknowledged” the investigation into its former employee but claimed the “matter involves individual legal liability”. It said diamond products certified by its subsidiary are “fully traceable and of guaranteed quality”. – AFP

Bloomberg ordered to pay two ministers S$460,000

o News agency says its stands by reporter

He said in court that when Bloomberg received a correction direction issued under Singapore’s Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act, the company responded by lifting the paywall on the article and publicly stood by it. A Bloomberg editor said in an affidavit that the company had lifted the paywall so that readers could see the correction notice. The hearing was told that the notice was placed at the top of the story on its website, along with a statement that Bloomberg “respectfully disagrees” with the direction and stood by its reporting. In her ruling, the judge said Low had been reckless and false in describing the opacity of local government records for non-caveated bungalow transactions. She said such records were in fact maintained in public records and made searchable through the Singapore Land Authority Integrated Land Information Service, a fact Low knew from making searches as a reporter himself. “I find that Bloomberg’s conduct in removing the paywall pertaining to the article also demonstrates malice,” said the judge. – Reuters

The law firm that represented the ministers did not immediately respond to a request for comment. In her judgment, Justice Audrey Lim wrote: “The dominant purpose behind the article was to publish a story about the claimants, in particular about their (good class bungalow) transactions. The broader narrative of how wealthy individuals in Singapore use non caveated transactions and trust structures to keep their dealings secret or ‘off-radar’ was the cover devised to carry that story.” Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam and Manpower Minister Tan See Leng had sued Bloomberg and one of its reporters for defamation over the December 2024 article on secrecy around expensive property transactions that mentioned deals involving the two ministers. Bloomberg had defended the story as reporting on trends related to transactions of luxury properties, saying both ministers were newsworthy examples of such deals. The news organisation told the court the article did not allege wrongdoing by the ministers. The lawyer for the ministers had called for aggravated damages to be awarded and said the defendants had showed malice.

SINGAPORE: Bloomberg News and one of its reporters were ordered to pay S$460,000 (RM1.5 million) in damages after an article it published was found to have defamed two ministers, the city-state’s High Court said. Bloomberg and the reporter Low De Wei are liable to pay S$230,000 to each minister, comprising S$170,000 in general damages and S$60,000 in aggravated damages, said the judgment released on Tuesday. Bloomberg editor-in-chief John Micklethwait said he was disappointed by the ruling, adding that the company stands by its reporter and the newsroom. “We argued at trial that our reporting was accurate and served an important public interest, and we continue to believe that the ministers have imposed an extremely strained meaning on what was a solid story,” he told Reuters in an email. He did not say whether Bloomberg was planning to file an appeal.

MILESTONE OF STRENGTH ... The world’s longest reigning living monarch, Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah inspecting the royal guard of honour during celebrations at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in Bandar Seri Begawan yesterday. – REUTERSPIC his 80th birthday

Thai pub fire death toll rises to 32 BANGKOK: The death toll from an explosive fire at a Bangkok live music pub has risen to 32 after two people died of their injuries, police said yesterday, as investigations focused on the possibility of negligence as a factor in the blaze. city’s northern Chatuchak area close to midnight on Sunday, with witnesses describing an explosion, a horizontal burst of fire and smoke engulfing the single-storey venue.

Experts say they think combustible material that decorated the stage to improve acoustics ignited to produce extreme heat, smoke and toxins, choking the trapped patrons. The use of flammable materials and decorative items, crowded conditions and unusable emergency exits in Thai establishments have been previously flagged. – Reuters

to ensure fire exits are unobstructed and that venues are safe. The pub had undergone an inspection in April. The pub, located at a busy intersection next to train stations and two shopping malls, is one of a cluster of similar bars often crowded on weekend nights, serving food, drinks as well as offering live music and televised sports.

Authorities believe the fire was probably sparked by an electrical short circuit in a ceiling air conditioner. Police are investigating the possibility of negligence and if emergency exits were obstructed, as the government vows to tighten regulations over entertainment venues, including random inspections

The Erawan Emergency Medical Centre said 30 people were still being treated in hospitals in the city, with 15 of those in intensive care units. A total of 44 people have been discharged.

The fire, one of the deadliest in recent years in Thailand, tore through the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub in the