Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Money

issue

China

South Korea

Donald Trump

integrity

tariffs

labels

transhipment

smuggling

As the United States reinstates heavy tariffs on Chinese imports under former President Donald Trump, a new trade controversy is emerging &mdash; and Malaysia finds itself unwillingly at the centre of it. Reports have surfaced that unscrupulous freight brokers based in China are rerouting goods through Malaysia and mislabelling them as "Made in Malaysia" to evade the steep US duties, raising serious concerns over the potential damage to Malaysia's trade reputation.
From Trade Partner to Transit Point: Malaysia&rsquo;s Role in a Rising Smuggling Tactic
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4d8cc18d4a0ca3a7db37c9bc2a167dafe4a6f5789aa5c653a38e7fb11337eb08" />
According to reports by Malay Mail and Bloomberg, China-based logistics brokers have been offering US online retailers highly suspicious services to cut down on shipping costs. These include falsifying the country of origin and undervaluing shipments &mdash; with Malaysia being one of the key countries misused in this deception. Some brokers even go as far as posing as importers themselves, offering to handle the documentation and falsely declare the goods as Malaysian-made.
&ldquo;Many clients are now choosing to route Chinese products through Malaysia and claim they are made here,&rdquo; said one freight broker to Bloomberg. The motivation is clear: while Chinese goods are currently facing tariffs as high as 145% in the United States, products genuinely originating from Malaysia are only subject to a 24% import duty.
The scheme is not only unethical but also illegal under US customs law. False declarations of origin constitute a serious offence and may result in civil or criminal penalties for all parties involved &mdash; including sellers, brokers, and importers. As of now, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has not officially confirmed whether enforcement has been ramped up, though they have reiterated that public reports and complaints through their online portal remain a key part of enforcement efforts.
Trump&rsquo;s Tariff Surge Sparks a Wave of Workarounds
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6bcb751a7431f4b2e92f42c60b618422d15d5c3547bafa7eed5f254cc236183f" />
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4265/us-slaps-up-to-3521percent-tariffs-on-asean-solar-panels-threatening-malaysias-export-industry">US Slaps Up To 3,521% Tariffs On ASEAN Solar Panels, Threatening Malaysia&rsquo;s Export Industry</a> Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4218/the-impact-of-new-us-tariffs-on-malaysia-jobs-prices-and-the-iphone">The Impact Of New US Tariffs On Malaysia: Jobs, Prices, And The iPhone</a>
This illicit practice appears to have surged after Trump&rsquo;s announcement earlier this month of a new round of trade tariffs, starting at 10% for all imports into the US. Specifically, China has been targeted with the steepest hikes &mdash; first 54%, then 104%, and most recently a staggering 145%. China retaliated by imposing 125% tariffs on US goods, prompting fears of a full-blown trade war echoing previous years.
Even Malaysia &mdash; previously unaffected by the bulk of US trade restrictions &mdash; was not spared. Under Trump&rsquo;s revised policy, Malaysian exports to the US now face a 24% import tariff. Although significantly lower than the Chinese rate, it still marks a steep increase from previous levels and could pose challenges for legitimate Malaysian exporters.
The escalating tariff war has caused an upheaval in the global supply chain. Some Chinese companies are now resorting to third-country transhipment strategies to sidestep duties &mdash; with Malaysia and even South Korea among the countries being exploited as part of this growing black market workaround.
South Korea Faces Similar Challenges with Mislabelled Chinese Goods
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e4e9aa3a91010b9cc4c8d83659a4fbf4a16525928c0522d2834663ff1275d047" />
Malaysia is not alone in this predicament. South Korea, too, has discovered large-scale violations involving Chinese goods being falsely labelled as South Korean exports. According to the Korea Customs Service, a staggering 29.5 billion won (~RM91,000,000) worth of goods with incorrect origin labels were uncovered in just the first quarter of 2025 &mdash; with 97% of them destined for the US market.
The violations include Chinese-made cathode materials and surveillance equipment that were either reassembled in South Korea or relabelled outright before being shipped to the United States. Some of these goods had already been exported, while others were intercepted at the port.
In response, the Korea Customs Service has launched a special task force and is working closely with US authorities to crack down on these illegal transhipment practices. All violations are expected to be forwarded to prosecutors for legal action.
Malaysia Urged to Act Swiftly to Protect Its Trade Integrity
Malaysian trade analysts are now sounding the alarm. If this misuse continues unchecked, Malaysia&rsquo;s international credibility as a law-abiding trade partner could be at risk. The country's legitimate exporters may find themselves subject to heightened scrutiny by US authorities, leading to delays, increased compliance checks, and potential blacklisting.
There are growing calls for the Malaysian government to act decisively. Trade groups and analysts alike have urged authorities to investigate any abuse of Malaysia&rsquo;s national label and clamp down on foreign attempts to exploit its relatively favourable tariff position. They argue that failing to act could result in long-term reputational damage, making it harder for Malaysian exporters to maintain market access abroad.
&ldquo;Malaysia needs to take swift action to prevent being used as a cover for tariff evasion. This is not just about trade, but about safeguarding our nation's integrity,&rdquo; one analyst said
Understanding Tariffs and Why They Matter
&nbsp;<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/ebdd724d306175630884f79b28dbb2541fa11e0b59529929bfd382852e84cb8c" />
For those unfamiliar with trade policy, tariffs are essentially taxes imposed by one country on goods imported from another. The idea is to make foreign products more expensive, thereby protecting domestic industries and discouraging reliance on overseas suppliers.
But while tariffs serve a political and economic purpose, they also create ripple effects. For instance, Malaysian Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz previously explained that a shirt originally priced at USD 100 (~RM656.25) could cost as much as USD 154 (~RM673.75) after a 54% tariff &mdash; a cost that is typically borne by end consumers rather than corporations.
According to the Tax Foundation, tariffs are a regressive form of taxation. They disproportionately affect low-income households, who end up spending a larger share of their income on essential goods that have suddenly become more expensive due to import taxes.
A Trade War With Global Consequences
As Trump hints at a possible reduction in the 145% tariff on Chinese goods &mdash; stating it will "drop significantly, but not to zero" &mdash; the uncertainty continues to roil global markets. What is clear, however, is that countries like Malaysia must tread carefully. Being caught in the crossfire of a geopolitical trade war not only endangers economic interests but also risks entanglement in a global web of fraud and deception.
Malaysia must now navigate these turbulent waters with a firm stance, ensuring its name is not co-opted by foreign actors for unlawful gain, and upholding its hard-earned reputation as a responsible global trading partner. The time to act is now.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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South Korea also uncovered falsely labelled goods, highlighting the scale of the transhipment schemes.

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Malaysia Caught In US-China Trade War As Chinese Firms Mislabel Exports To Avoid Tariffs

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Scentify

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Oatside

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Rohto

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The newly upgraded Aerotrain at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is already under scrutiny following technical issues that occurred just one day after its relaunch. The Aerotrain, which links the Main Terminal with the Satellite Building, resumed operations on 1 July after a RM456 million upgrade. However, on 2 July, social media users reported that the service had already malfunctioned, raising alarm among travellers and netizens alike.
One Facebook user, Ahmad Ramadzan Soid, shared a photo of officials attending to the stalled Aerotrain at KLIA Terminal 1. In another post, Ashish Kale uploaded a photo of travellers boarding shuttle buses, suggesting the train was out of service.
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At the time of reporting, no formal explanation was provided by Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) as to whether the disruption was caused by a technical fault or part of post-launch operational fine-tuning. Regardless, the public response reflected disappointment that such an incident could occur so soon after a costly revamp.
Second Disruption Caused by Flooded Tunnel
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a5261c1e5f3285a2fac225244a6e89953289c811edbb80d697244f485175baed" />
Barely two days later, on 4 July, Aerotrain services were again suspended, this time due to water accumulation in the tunnel following heavy rainfall. According to MAHB, a drainage pump failed to activate automatically, preventing the removal of floodwater.
As a precaution, train operations were halted until the water was manually cleared and the safety of the tracks confirmed. The service resumed at 12.15pm that day. MAHB assured that technical teams were working to resolve the issue and are monitoring the system closely during this early phase of operations. Shuttle buses were deployed to maintain connectivity between terminals.
MAHB has also committed to improving the tunnel&rsquo;s drainage systems to prevent similar incidents in future weather events.
Netizens React: Sarcasm and Frustration
News of the malfunctions quickly made waves online. Many Malaysians responded with sarcasm, frustration and concern, particularly over the amount of public funds involved.
&ldquo;RM456 million and it&rsquo;s flooding already? Might as well have built a waterpark,&rdquo; one user commented.
&ldquo;No point in having shiny new trains if we&rsquo;re going to be wading through water,&rdquo; said another.
&ldquo;Even the shuttle buses felt more reliable. If this is the start, what&rsquo;s next?&rdquo;
Others expressed concern about the long-term durability of the project and called for greater transparency and accountability from authorities.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f37c3439d339da9bd9c03f8187ccb3705a591464368e558fe86c212f49ec8f16" />
Anwar Ibrahim: Praise and Optimism at Relaunch
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1719b2e2233c29f4645870f4d9258953594eb8661176f925a0dd1c60628c86d9" />
During the official relaunch on 1 July, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim praised the revamped Aerotrain for its speed and efficiency. Accompanied by Transport Minister Anthony Loke and MAHB managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani, Anwar rode the new driverless train between the Contact Pier and Satellite Building before departing for a diplomatic tour to Europe and South America.
Anwar described the Aerotrain experience as &ldquo;good&rdquo; and &ldquo;faster than before&rdquo;, highlighting the importance of the upgrade in enhancing KLIA&rsquo;s capacity as a regional travel hub. He also emphasised that such improvements are essential as the country prepares to welcome an influx of tourists under the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.
The Alstom Innovia APM 300R train system, now in operation, can carry up to 270 passengers at speeds of 56 km/h, reducing terminal transfer time to under three minutes. MAHB confirmed that the new trains had undergone six months of testing under the supervision of the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) before the relaunch.
Moving Forward: Reliability Is Key
The Aerotrain is a vital component of KLIA&rsquo;s infrastructure, especially for the airport&rsquo;s 100,000 daily passengers, many of whom rely on it for timely terminal transfers. The back-to-back disruptions have raised public concerns about the long-term reliability of the system, particularly in the face of Malaysia&rsquo;s frequent heavy rainfall.
Given the RM456 million spent on the Aerotrain and the broader RM742 million refurbishment plan, there is now heightened public expectation for consistent performance. As the country gears up for Visit Malaysia 2026, stakeholders must ensure the system not only operates smoothly but is also resilient to weather and operational challenges.
MAHB's ability to respond to these early hiccups with transparency, quick fixes and long-term planning will be crucial in regaining public trust and maintaining Malaysia&rsquo;s standing as a leading regional aviation hub.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Service was briefly paused after rainwater flooded the tunnel; operations have resumed.

17293146e3e242182a7fa51e378d593da117ad1ff887277d712003c6b7800d45

KLIA Aerotrain Faces Technical Setbacks Just Days After RM456 Million Relaunch

For many national athletes, the road to greatness is paved with not only sweat and sacrifice but also immense pressure and emotional strain. Public expectation, rigorous training, injuries, and the burden of constantly performing at an elite level can take a significant toll on one&rsquo;s mental health. While victories are celebrated and failures dissected, the human behind the jersey often suffers in silence.
Mental health is increasingly recognised as a critical aspect of sports performance and well-being, yet remains a taboo topic for many. This reality has once again come to the forefront in Malaysia following a cryptic and deeply concerning social media post by one of the country&rsquo;s most prominent sports figures &mdash; badminton ace Lee Zii Jia.
A Disturbing Cry for Help?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/26c2486579c2547f371b9ef470e0cf283eabc77226291c8178fffb712c641343" />
On 3 July 2025, Lee Zii Jia sent shockwaves through the badminton community and beyond when he uploaded a series of unsettling images to his Instagram account. The faceless, eerie illustrations appeared to convey themes of psychological anguish and emotional breakdown, including a stitched-up figure, a melting face pierced by needles, and a dark silhouette placing a gun to its head.
The 27-year-old shuttler provided no caption or explanation, but the images alone were enough to set off alarm bells. Fans noted that he had changed his profile picture to a pitch-black screen and closed his comment section entirely &mdash; signs that he might be withdrawing from public engagement.
Many interpreted the post as an unspoken cry for help or a symbolic representation of an internal struggle, possibly linked to his challenging year both on and off the court.
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An Olympic Fighter: The Bronze That Didn&rsquo;t Come Easy
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ecd995dcf78d2f5127ad5f4309e9729989c12f6a2d2750e950300eff2c030bc6" />
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/3690/lee-zii-jia-bags-2nd-olympic-bronze-medal-for-malaysia">Lee Zii Jia Bags 2nd Olympic Bronze Medal For Malaysia!</a>
Just a year ago, Zii Jia was at the peak of his career, proudly claiming the bronze medal for Malaysia at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. His path to the podium was anything but smooth.
After falling short in a dramatic semi-final clash, Zii Jia found himself in a high-stakes bronze medal match against India&rsquo;s Lakshya Sen. With the weight of the nation on his shoulders and his previous Olympic campaign still haunting him, the Malaysian played with a fierce blend of tactical maturity and raw determination. He dug deep, weathering long rallies and overcoming momentum shifts to eventually triumph in three tight games, securing Malaysia&rsquo;s first Olympic badminton medal since 2016.
The victory was a significant career milestone for the Kedah-born player, reaffirming his place among the sport&rsquo;s top-tier talents. But as his recent social media activity suggests, even career highs can&rsquo;t shield an athlete from inner battles.
Fans and Fellow Players Offer Words of Support
Following his post, Malaysians flooded social media with messages of concern and encouragement. Although he had limited interactions on his own account, fan pages and fellow players reached out to offer empathy and support.
&ldquo;You&rsquo;re doing great, Zii Jia. Don&rsquo;t let the noise bring you down,&rdquo; one fan wrote on X. Others emphasised the importance of rest and self-care, with messages like, &ldquo;Take your time to heal &mdash; physically and mentally. We&rsquo;ll be here when you&rsquo;re ready.&rdquo;
There was a palpable shift in tone among Malaysians, with many rallying around their national hero not as a player but as a person navigating the emotional weight of fame and expectation.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/51bd436905e2c3aebb180e4f7952ba448be7ac4f141d8081f98c1eff01abcbde" />
Injury, Setbacks and the Fight to Return
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6ac80288649a878b5475bc4b7f3149f8a54dec153a3c9244a88b11ba682963e1" />
Zii Jia&rsquo;s recent silence on court is partly due to injury. After suffering a right ankle injury at the 2023 World Tour Finals in December, he only participated in two tournaments in 2024 &mdash; the Orl&eacute;ans Masters and the All England Championship. At the latter, he was knocked out in the first round, prompting further concern about his form and readiness.
He later pulled out of the Badminton Asia Championships in April, choosing instead to focus on recovery. His world ranking dropped to No. 27, but he has since applied for a protected ranking through the Badminton World Federation (BWF) to preserve his tournament eligibility during his rehabilitation period.
Despite his physical recovery reportedly progressing, the recent Instagram post suggests the psychological toll may still linger.
Eyes on a Return &ndash; and Hope for Renewal
Lee Zii Jia is expected to make his comeback at the Japan Open from 15&ndash;20 July, followed by the China Open later in the month. These tournaments serve as his final major tests ahead of the 2025 BWF World Championships in Paris, set to take place from 25&ndash;31 August.
With the badminton calendar heating up, the pressure is once again mounting. Yet fans are now calling not just for victories, but for compassion, space, and a more holistic support system for athletes like Zii Jia.
Ending on a Note of Hope
While Lee Zii Jia&rsquo;s post has sparked concern, it also opens an important conversation about mental health in Malaysian sports. This dialogue needs to be louder, kinder, and more informed. Behind the racket is a young man who has given the nation moments of pride and glory, and who now seems to need understanding more than applause.
As Zii Jia prepares to re-enter the court, Malaysians stand united in hope: not just for wins, but for his well-being. May this period of hardship serve as a chapter of growth, healing, and strength. And when he returns, may he do so not just as a player, but as a whole, healthier person.
We&rsquo;re with you, Zii Jia. Bounce back soon.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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The pressure is real, but Malaysians are with him every step of the way.

c62d4fe9dd83c57529711ec4b372f324b1682c9e03320cba73aa224131efeea5

Lee Zii Jia’s Troubling Instagram Post Sparks Widespread Concern Over Athlete Mental Health

A well-meaning attempt to help his sister secure off-campus housing turned into a costly ordeal for a local man, after he was allegedly scammed out of RM1,400 by a fake property agent. The incident, which took place in Cheras, has gone viral on X (formerly Twitter), sparking concern over growing online rental fraud in Malaysia.
Helping Family Turns into Financial Trap
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
found a nice unit for rent on <a href="https://t.co/60XW4hHczc">https://t.co/60XW4hHczc</a>. looked clean, price okay, good area. contacted the guy on 16th June 2025. we arranged a viewing on 18th June, 8PM at Parc 3, Cheras, i went with my sister &amp; her friends. <a href="https://t.co/c11mrmSdqj">pic.twitter.com/c11mrmSdqj</a>
&mdash; fazeem (@fazeeeeeem) <a href="https://twitter.com/fazeeeeeem/status/1939649993071264205?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote>

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In a X (formally known as Twitter) thread that has since been widely shared, user Fazeem recounted how he was trying to assist his sister and her friends in finding a new home, as their university dormitory contracts were expiring in early July. After searching online, he came across what seemed like the perfect unit listed on Mudah.my &ndash; a popular local marketplace &ndash; and contacted the supposed owner on 16 June.
A viewing was arranged for 18 June at Parc 3, Cheras, where Fazeem met a man who presented himself confidently as the unit&rsquo;s rightful owner. &ldquo;He gave me his IC, showed me a past tenancy agreement, and really played the part,&rdquo; Fazeem explained, adding that the man was so convincing that he didn&rsquo;t feel the need to question anything at the time.
Booking Fee Paid, Agreement Signed
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
he said he&rsquo;d pass the key by 26 or 27 June. but on 24 June, he suddenly asked me to pay another RM2,200, and said the last RM1,400 can be paid anytime in July. i told him i&rsquo;ll only pay after i get the key. he said okay. <a href="https://t.co/g6RVUmkrNY">pic.twitter.com/g6RVUmkrNY</a>
&mdash; fazeem (@fazeeeeeem) <a href="https://twitter.com/fazeeeeeem/status/1939650039112208568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Trusting that everything was in order, Fazeem proceeded to transfer a RM1,400 booking fee to secure the unit. He received a tenancy agreement on 21 June, which he signed and returned two days later. According to their arrangement, he was due to receive the keys on 26 or 27 June.
However, things began to unravel when the man suddenly demanded an additional RM2,200, stating that the remaining RM1,400 could be paid in July. This raised red flags for Fazeem, who replied that he would only pay after receiving the keys. The man agreed &mdash; but that was the last Fazeem ever heard from him.
Sudden Disappearance
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
on 28th June i tried texting him, ONE TICK. tried calling, straight to voicemail. whatsapp shows &ldquo;number not registered&rdquo;. he deleted his account and vanished just like that. <a href="https://t.co/koyTnwBVfh">pic.twitter.com/koyTnwBVfh</a>
&mdash; fazeem (@fazeeeeeem) <a href="https://twitter.com/fazeeeeeem/status/1939650051472822549?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote>

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By 28 June, the scammer had completely disappeared. Phone calls went straight to voicemail, WhatsApp showed the number as &ldquo;not registered&rdquo;, and the individual had deleted his account. &ldquo;He vanished just like that,&rdquo; Fazeem wrote, frustrated. &ldquo;I only wanted to help my sister and her friends find a place before their lease ends on 5 July. These scammers are too slick nowadays &mdash; always verify everything before handing over money.&rdquo;
Fazeem has since lodged a police report and is now awaiting further investigation by the authorities.
Repeat Offender?
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
His real name is Muhammad Muzhaffar Akmal bin Rahim. And that is his car as well. <a href="https://t.co/ikn6Z6S36P">pic.twitter.com/ikn6Z6S36P</a>
&mdash; ChristyMacr (@ChristyMacr) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChristyMacr/status/1939724798114111837?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote>

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After sharing his experience, Fazeem was contacted by other social media users who claimed they too had been duped by the same man. One reposted tweet by user @ChristyMacr showed alleged photos of the scammer and his car, with another commenter claiming they had been scammed by him back in 2019, and the case was still unresolved.
&ldquo;He&rsquo;s using someone else&rsquo;s IC. That&rsquo;s not even his real name,&rdquo; another user claimed, suggesting a pattern of identity fraud.
Here&rsquo;s some comments from netizens on the issue:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Damn this guy still scamming around. Igtkan masih dkt dalam lepas dah kena pijak ramai ramai. My case on 2019 got scammed by him pun tak settle. Ramai dah kena dgn dia. Mmg cara dia mmg smooth like butter. Gain trust his victim.
&mdash; Stay Alive (@NasrulZahudin) <a href="https://twitter.com/NasrulZahudin/status/1939783028873801902?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Hey! I think i got scammed by this very same guy but he used a different name and bank account in my case.
&mdash; Hayn (@haynwhoagain) <a href="https://twitter.com/haynwhoagain/status/1939915521941807256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2025</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
omg I got scammed by this person around RM5K jugak la this year, ever until now still tak ada progress. Kes sama, nak sewa rumah rupanya airbnb.
&mdash; AJ (@ssupajayy) <a href="https://twitter.com/ssupajayy/status/1939999617283981628?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2025</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Rule 101 kalau deal dengan ejen property 1. Minta business card 2. Check availability praktis dia cth no REN di <a href="https://t.co/4veG4sDmtl">https://t.co/4veG4sDmtl</a> 3. Sebarang urusan transaksi MESTI melalui agensi bukan no akaun peribadi 3 cara ni je simple. Oh ya saya bukan REN saya PEA4054
&mdash; Shafiq Iqram (@shafiqram_) <a href="https://twitter.com/shafiqram_/status/1939672679302476248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Airbnb Properties Used as Props
According to other reports, the scammer allegedly rents Airbnb units for short stays and uses them as bait during property viewings. This allows him to appear credible and professional to unsuspecting victims. A few users offered tips on how to avoid similar scams, such as using Google reverse image search to check whether the property photos are taken from public listings or Airbnb.
Authorities Urge Caution
Rental scams remain a persistent problem in Malaysia, especially in urban areas like Kuala Lumpur where demand for housing is high. Victims are often students or young adults, unfamiliar with rental procedures and under pressure to secure accommodation quickly.
The police have reminded the public to remain vigilant and verify all documentation, including ownership papers, tenancy agreements, and landlord identification. Transactions should never be completed without viewing the property and confirming ownership with building management or online property databases.
Although netizens have pointed out that the scammer has been operating for some time, we hope the authorities will act swiftly and decisively to bring him to justice, especially given the growing number of victims who have fallen prey to his deceit.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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The alleged scammer reportedly used Airbnb listings to deceive victims into thinking he owned the property.

87afd955d16d6fb1a6e345e2c5528a2246c07857cef1bd20263ff1af5fbabede

Apartment Rental Scam in Cheras: Man Duped While Helping Sister Find A Home

A minor traffic accident in Taman Desa quickly escalated into a serious confrontation after one of the parties involved allegedly brandished a fake pistol, leading to the arrest of two men. The alarming incident, which unfolded late on Monday night, has reignited concerns over public safety and the growing trend of imitation weapons being purchased online.
Late-Night Collision Escalates into Threat
&nbsp;<video style="width: 706px; height: 353px;" controls="controls" width="706" height="353">
<source src="https://r2.myc.my/605f5e9cbb3eec91961b74eafbe4d17f7805a1325e9ba7d8ec572c7ea33cde8d" /></video>
According to the Brickfields District Police, the incident began around 11pm on 1 July when a black Honda City, driven by a 28-year-old man, was struck on its right-side mirror by a red Toyota Yaris near Jalan Desa. What began as a routine fender-bender turned heated as the drivers exited their vehicles and confronted one another.
The situation took a dangerous turn when the driver of the Toyota Yaris suddenly pulled out what appeared to be a black pistol and pointed it directly at the complainant. The weapon was allegedly used to threaten the victim during the argument, creating a highly distressing scene.
Fearing for his safety, the Honda driver lodged a police report at 12.55am the following morning. Police officers responded swiftly to the report and managed to apprehend two suspects, aged 19 and 27, later that day.
Weapon Found to Be Replica Purchased on TikTok
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/111dc51aa541343e6fa7c2d51a9f2235e28a80e03cde4a06cd3bca79feb0cc27" />
Initial investigations revealed that the weapon used in the confrontation was not a real firearm but a replica pistol. According to police, the fake gun had been purchased through the popular social media platform TikTok by one of the suspects.
Brickfields police chief Assistant Commissioner Ku Mashariman Ku Mahmood confirmed the detail in a statement, noting that the weapon was &ldquo;an imitation, not capable of discharging live ammunition, but still capable of causing fear and alarm among the public.&rdquo;
He further revealed that one of the suspects may have been under the influence of alcohol during the incident, although this aspect of the investigation is ongoing.
Four-Day Remand Granted
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a08fe41f8557ca1dd3f5abc80c8110cdb884dd9e81065ec0650b9c0811f191cb" />
Both men were brought before a magistrate and have been remanded for four days, until 5 July, to assist police with their enquiries. Authorities are now pursuing charges under two separate legal provisions.
The case is being investigated under Section 506 of the Penal Code for criminal intimidation, which carries a punishment of up to seven years' imprisonment, a fine, or both. Additionally, the suspects are also being investigated under Section 36(1) of the Arms Act 1960 for possession of an imitation firearm, which carries similar penalties upon conviction.
Viral Footage and Public Outrage
The case gained public attention after a video of the incident began circulating on social media, showing one of the suspects pointing the weapon during the verbal altercation. The footage drew strong criticism from netizens, with many expressing concern over the ease of access to imitation firearms online, especially through unregulated platforms such as TikTok.
&ldquo;This kind of behaviour is not just reckless; it&rsquo;s downright dangerous,&rdquo; said one local resident interviewed near the scene. &ldquo;You never know what&rsquo;s real and what&rsquo;s fake &mdash; and in a tense moment, it could cost someone their life.&rdquo;
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments from netizens:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9d8b3cff13ceda1c34999c1bd1024ea166789a43fc14239c13107d16d0243188" />
Police Urge Public Vigilance
In light of the incident, Assistant Commissioner Ku Mashariman urged the public to remain calm during road accidents and avoid letting tempers flare into violence. He also encouraged anyone who witnesses criminal acts or suspicious activity to report them to the authorities without hesitation.
&ldquo;The public must understand that road rage incidents can have serious consequences. Brandishing any form of weapon, even an imitation, is a criminal offence that we take very seriously,&rdquo; he said.
He added that the police remain committed to ensuring public safety and would not hesitate to act against individuals who engage in threatening or unlawful behaviour.
Members of the public with relevant information about this or similar incidents can contact the Kuala Lumpur Police Hotline at 03-2115 9999, the Brickfields District Police Headquarters at 03-2297 9222, or visit the nearest police station.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Time for platforms to regulate the sale of imitation weapons online.

48b2e1d2a49a4002c0b406d974d6166079f55adfb94a7dcab7e87d3604f90e37

Road Rage Turns Hostile In Taman Desa: Two Arrested After Brandishing Fake Gun

A ferry travelling from Ketapang Port in East Java to Gilimanuk Port in Bali sank late on Wednesday night (2 July 2025), just 25 minutes into its journey across the Bali Strait, one of Indonesia&rsquo;s busiest inter-island routes. The ferry, named KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya, was carrying 65 people on board&mdash;53 passengers and 12 crew members&mdash;along with 22 vehicles, including 14 trucks.
The ferry capsized at approximately 11:20pm, and by 12:22am, it was found overturned and drifting. Initial reports point to a combination of engine trouble and rough weather conditions, with waves reaching up to two metres (6.5 feet), contributing to the tragic incident.
Death Toll Rises as Search Efforts Intensify
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2b1c4e271804a2764714682a87d4dea8c21b2759b13f23ef47b05de7b5f1da27" />
As of Thursday evening, the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) confirmed that four people have died, 31 have been rescued, and about 30 remain missing. Many of the rescued passengers were found unconscious after drifting for hours in choppy waters overnight. Authorities have deployed nine rescue vessels, two tugboats, two inflatable boats, and a helicopter, alongside a team of underwater divers and local fishermen, to aid in the rescue operation.
According to Nanang Sigit, head of the Surabaya Search and Rescue Office, search efforts are focused along the waters between the accident site and Gilimanuk Port, where several early survivors were found. He added that the improved weather on Thursday has allowed for a more concentrated water-based search.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/564dbf68fb06b22014c75ce6922910fac5aef8c818e5c93b957061727f7564a9" />
Survivors Recall Harrowing Night
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f812de28032a8804b0714fa31394d3d831b05a48027e1d486f459ffefdf1c890" />
Among the survivors was 64-year-old Supardi, who described the terrifying moment the ferry began to tilt. &ldquo;At first, I wanted to jump, but the water rushed in too fast. The ferry sank with me still on it. I had to climb out as it submerged, maybe about 7 metres deep,&rdquo; he said from Jembrana Regional Hospital in Bali.
He and three others used life jackets to remain afloat through the night. Others were less fortunate&mdash;some passengers were found unconscious, having clung to wreckage or floated alone until help arrived.
Families of the missing gathered at both Ketapang and Gilimanuk ports, anxiously awaiting updates. Some broke down in tears; others called out the names of loved ones still unaccounted for.
Engine Trouble and Weather Cited
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9899499c1a3e6c1b2f17943133877c18541ee9c4d6f9af67d14f713478e21c38" />
Early indications suggest the ferry may have experienced a leak in the engine room, according to survivor accounts, while officials have pointed to poor weather as a contributing factor. The ferry&rsquo;s radio communications reportedly failed shortly after departure, with contact only re-established via another vessel from the same company, at which point the ferry was already visibly listing.
While the manifest listed 65 people, Indonesian authorities acknowledge that actual numbers often differ, a persistent issue in the country&rsquo;s maritime transport system.
Presidential Orders from Abroad
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/48a71ffb6cd254fd4a822db21515465ba9fddf1600b968df014d0af45e656a04" />
President Prabowo Subianto, who is currently on an official visit to Saudi Arabia, issued an emergency directive calling for a full-scale rescue response. The president was briefed by Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, who confirmed that all available national resources would be mobilised to locate survivors and investigate the cause of the disaster.
Photographs from the scene published by Antara News Agency showed ambulances on standby, bodies being recovered, and locals waiting by the roadside for word of family members.
A History of Ferry Disasters in Indonesia
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/191e03d943431fa4ac8069cbd21c159a8b8e3fcce9c652aad41fc21f28bd31a6" />
Indonesia, made up of over 17,000 islands, relies heavily on ferries to transport people and goods between regions. Unfortunately, ferry accidents are common, often attributed to overcrowding, poor vessel maintenance, and lax enforcement of safety standards.
This incident is the latest in a string of maritime tragedies. In March 2025, a boat carrying 16 people capsized off the coast of Bali, claiming the life of an Australian woman. In 2022, a ferry with over 800 passengers ran aground off East Nusa Tenggara, though no casualties occurred. The deadliest in recent years was in 2018, when more than 150 people drowned after a ferry sank in Lake Toba, Sumatra.
In 2023, another ferry capsized near Sulawesi, killing at least 15 people, highlighting a persistent national issue.
Questions Over Safety and Oversight
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/140f41efaf96c409c00e07d856804d913ed550bdc9c0076b85f753f91dbea432" />
The sinking of KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya has reignited criticism over Indonesia&rsquo;s inconsistent maritime oversight. Many have questioned why a ferry in such a busy route, known for strong currents and unpredictable weather, was allowed to operate amid warnings of rough seas. Furthermore, the apparent lack of adequate life-saving equipment and inaccurate passenger manifest has drawn further scrutiny.
Authorities have pledged to investigate the incident fully and to consider stricter safety regulations, including mandatory weather assessments and enhanced crew training.
Hope Amid Heartbreak
Despite the mounting toll, rescuers remain hopeful that more survivors can be found. &ldquo;The real challenge is time and current,&rdquo; said one rescue official. &ldquo;But every hour matters, and we won&rsquo;t stop searching until every possible life is accounted for.&rdquo;
For the survivors, the tragedy leaves both physical and emotional scars. For the families of the missing, the wait continues in agony. And for Indonesia, this latest disaster underscores a hard truth: until its ferry systems undergo serious reform, its waters will remain as treacherous as they are travelled.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Survivors recount terrifying ordeal as Indonesia launches full-scale rescue operation.

Malaysia Caught In US-China Trade War As Chinese Firms Mislabel Exports To Avoid Tariffs

South Korea also uncovered falsely labelled goods, highlighting the scale of the transhipment schemes.

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Apartment Rental Scam in Cheras: Man Duped While Helping Sister Find A Home

Road Rage Turns Hostile In Taman Desa: Two Arrested After Brandishing Fake Gun

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