Albert's wife lodges report, claims gun pointed at her

Albert's wife lodges report, claims gun pointed at her


Published: Nov 28, 2025 9:41 PM
Updated: 12:48 AM



Summary

• Businessperson Albert Tei’s wife has lodged a police report alleging MACC officers pointed a pistol at her and deleted videos during a home raid.

• Lee Pei Rie expressed concern for Tei’s safety and demanded a probe into MACC’s conduct.

• Sepang police confirm receiving the report, while MACC chief Azam Baki earlier dismissed claims that weapons were pointed at Tei’s head.

The wife of businessperson Albert Tei has lodged a police report over the MACC’s raid on the couple’s home in Puchong, Selangor, earlier today.

In the report, Lee Pei Rie expressed concern over Tei’s safety and urged for an investigation into the conduct of certain MACC officers during the raid.

“I am making this police report because I am worried about my husband’s safety and want to ensure he is safe while in detention, and I demand a full investigation into the MACC officers who did the aforementioned actions,” she said in the report sighted by Malaysiakini.

The report, which provides a detailed account of the raid, was lodged at the Petaling Jaya police district headquarters tonight.

When contacted, Sepang OCPD Norhizam Bahaman - who has jurisdiction over Puchong - confirmed to Malaysiakini that the police have received the report and are studying the case.


‘One of them pointed a pistol at me’

According to the report, Lee rushed downstairs to the living room at 10am upon realising a group of people had broken into the house, and found her husband lying on the floor, accompanied by armed MACC officers.

MACC officers raided Albert Tei’s home and arrested the businessperson this morning

“One of those individuals realised my presence and pointed a pistol at me. At the time, I was holding my phone to record the incident because I was concerned for the safety of myself and my family, who were in the house during the incident.

“The armed individual pointing a pistol at me then forced me to hand over my phone,” she said.

She claimed her phone was handed to another officer, who forced her to unlock the phone, and then deleted the video.

Lee claimed the officer then ordered her to bring all other people in her household, except for a sick child, to gather in the living room. They were then forced to unlock all the phones the MACC officers had found.

The MACC officers then supposedly confiscated their home’s CCTV decoder and left with Tei at 10.50am, only to return about 10 minutes later.

This time, Tei’s family members, including Tei himself, were gathered into a room and were ordered to set their phones to “flight” mode, while the home’s WiFi router was switched off.

Several officers were purportedly seen scanning the living room with an electronic device.

“Then, at about 1pm, they brought Tei out of the house without saying anything to me or informing me where he would be taken,” she said.

‘Heavy-handed action’

The MACC had separately arrested three people over corruption allegations involving Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s former aide Shamsul Iskandar Akin.

Shamsul and Tei were arrested separately today, while Sofia Rini Buyong, allegedly Shamsul’s proxy, was arrested yesterday.

The raid on Tei’s home has been criticised as “heavy-handed”, with former deputy law minister Hanipa Maidin comparing it to the arrest of a hardcore terrorist.

Tei’s lawyer, Zaid Malek, said the MACC officers refused to show him their authority cards or disclose where Tei was being taken.

Lee also told the media that Tei had a pistol pointed at him, while Tei shouted that he had six pistols pointed at his head as he was being taken away. However, Lee’s police report made no mention of any firearm being pointed at Tei.

MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki had dismissed claims that his officers pointed a weapon at Tei’s head during his arrest, and said the arrest was conducted in accordance with established procedures.

A police report has been lodged over the allegation against MACC officers.

Azam also said Tei was initially expected to present himself to the MACC on Dec 1. He was later informed to appear earlier, but “refused to do so and did not cooperate with MACC’s investigations”.

The MACC is expected to seek a remand order against Tei and Shamsul at the Putrajaya Magistrate’s Court tomorrow morning.

Sofia is already under a four-day remand order until Dec 1.

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Sabah election tomorrow

Murray Hunter


Sabah election tomorrow


Nov 28, 2025







Sabah’s 1.78 million voters will choose the next state government at the ballot box tomorrow. This election is a choice between Sabah heading along the road to more autonomy, like Sarawak, or remaining governed by parties complicit with Putra Jaya. This choice won’t be clear as there are 596 candidates in multi-candidate competitions in 73 seats across the state. This dynamic could lead to long delays in vote tallying tomorrow night and even a hung-parliament between the incumbent Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) and Warisan.

In one context the election is a straight fight between caretaker chief minister Hajiji Noor of GRS and Warisan’s Shafie Apdal. However, there many local iconic politicians and candidates standing with strong local followings. Warisan is expected to do well in the urban areas and east coast, while a large number of splintered Kadazan parties should do well within the interior of Sabah. They dynamics of large number of candidates competing for single seats under the First-Past-The-Post system is not easy to predict.

Ten percent of voters are new and Warisan has been campaigning hard towards this cohort. The minor parties have been disadvantaged with very limited media coverage. The election will be a test for UMNO fielding an array of new faces to the electorate. The DAP and PKR may find tomorrow difficult with the 40 percent revenue issue an important issue to many Sabahans. Warisan will be highly competitive in the seats DAP and PKR have chosen to contest. Over the last few days prime minister Anwar Ibrahim has been tirelessly canvassing the hustings.

The Albert Tei corruption issue hasn’t gained much traction in Sabah. The major issues are lack of development in Sabah, the cost of living and lack of economic opportunities. This may favour some of the Kadazan parties internally. For Perikatan Nasional (PN) this election is a test of the viability of the coalition nationally. PN could become a spoiler for some UMNO candidates. A poor performance by PKR in Sabah may require a party rethink. DAP may be able to hold onto the 4 seats it has.

Warisan would be expected to push more for Sabah autonomy, but would have to win a clear simple majority to govern. The current personality dynamics between Shapie Apdal and the governor Musa Aman may be a factor.

If a hung parliament emerges from voting tomorrow, who governs could go anyway. This would favour GRS. Its very likely independents, STAR, UPKO, UMNO, and DAP could play a role after the election as king makers in a new coalition.

Second autopsy confirms fatal neck injuries in military trainee case

theVibes.com:

Second autopsy confirms fatal neck injuries in military trainee case

Second report reveals multiple injuries to 22-year-old Syamsul Haris Shamsudin’s neck as the cause of death

Updated 1 hour ago · Published on 28 Nov 2025 5:50PM

New findings validated mother’s worst suspicion - November 28, 2025


THE long-held fears of a mother over the death of her son during military training have been confirmed following the release of a second autopsy report, which reveals multiple injuries to his neck as the cause of death.

Ummu Haiman Bee Daulatgun, 45, had expressed concern after being denied the opportunity to closely examine her son’s neck during the first post-mortem at Kota Tinggi Hospital, Johor, on 28 July.

Speaking to reporters at the Forensic Department of Kuala Lumpur Hospital today, she said the new findings validated her worst suspicions.

“This finally proves what I saw and felt at the time. The second autopsy report shows multiple injuries on his neck, exactly what I suspected during the first post-mortem. Alhamdulillah, it is now confirmed. It is deeply saddening,” she said.

The mother of three stressed that she hopes authorities will pursue a thorough investigation based on the latest report.

“We want justice for my son, and appropriate action must be taken under the law. Please handle my son’s case transparently,” she added.

The deceased, 22-year-old Syamsul Haris Shamsudin, a trainee with the University of Technology Malaysia’s Reserve Officer Training Unit (Palapes), was found unresponsive in July during training at the PULADA Combat Training Centre in Ulu Tiram, Johor.

He was declared dead at Kota Tinggi Hospital on 28 July and buried the following day at the Kampung Rinching Ulu Islamic Cemetery in Semenyih, Selangor.

Earlier reports suggested his death was due to a seizure, but the second autopsy, conducted after exhumation on the orders of the Shah Alam High Court, confirms that fatal neck injuries were involved.

Datuk Naran Singh, the family’s lawyer, said additional injuries, including abrasions, were also documented.

“Examination alongside images and pathology from the first post-mortem shows the deceased sustained severe neck injuries while still alive.

“There were multiple injuries that, while generally consistent with tracheostomy procedures, were far more extensive than expected. Importantly, these were not post-mortem,” he explained.

Naran urged both the Ministry of Defence and the Royal Malaysia Police to establish a special investigative team to determine the responsible parties.

“I believe the police have conducted some investigation. From information provided by the investigating officer, the case papers were referred twice to the Attorney General’s Chambers and they were awaiting the second autopsy report. Now that we have a comprehensive 25-page report, immediate action is warranted,” he said.

The family had previously applied to obtain the first post-mortem report, but the High Court in Shah Alam confirmed that access would only be considered following the release of the second autopsy findings.

A hearing to address this request has been scheduled for 5 December.

The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding trainee safety and accountability during military training exercises in Malaysia, as the family continues to demand justice for Syamsul Haris. - November 28, 2025

Sabah predictions: Divided local wave

Sabah predictions: Divided local wave

Bridget Welsh
Published: Nov 28, 2025 12:30 PM
Updated: 3:30 PM



COMMENT | Sabah heads to the polls tomorrow in what has been the most competitive election in her history.

The main campaign sentiment has been one of “local parties” – tied into the narratives of Warisan and the Sabah First movement of Ewon Benedick.

Underscoring this are deep-seated concerns that Sabah is being left behind in Malaysia and in comparison to neighbouring Sarawak.

Tomorrow, Sabah parties/coalitions will receive the overwhelming support of voters, as Sabahans are expected to turn away from peninsula-based parties/coalitions, especially Pakatan Harapan (in particular PKR) and Perikatan Nasional.

Yet on the ground, livelihood pressures for survival and uncertainty amidst political deal-making and a swarming of candidates have contributed to support for the familiar, notably the campaign resource-rich locally branded Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS).

The “being-the-government” advantage in a context of deep-seated societal vulnerabilities has mattered, even if, as detailed below, it will not yield the outcome of a categorical reindorsement.

High levels of uncertainty, pockets of certainty

In this piece, I draw from my ground research across all 73 seats in Sabah to lay out six broad predictions about the coming polls.

I begin with a caveat. Given the high level of competitiveness in at least a quarter of the races – what I label “too uncertain to call” – the final push in the last day of polls could swing the electoral outcome, not least of which is the potential negative impact of the weather/heavy rains on turnout.

Advantage lies with those who can bring their supporters to the polls, with the support of resources.

1. No one crosses majority line

At this juncture, it remains clear that no one coalition and party will win an outright majority of 37 seats. The Sabah government appears highly likely to be formed through post-coalition deal-making.

This will empower elites in power and likely create new alliances that will divide the Madani coalition. Sabah polls have already strained relations within the governing coalition, and this is likely to continue.

2. No big Warisan wave: Below the wind

Despite the hype of winning the government and a surge of support in urban areas for Warisan, this party is not likely to have enough seats to form a government on its own.

In fact, it may be the second contender, depending on whether it receives a last-minute boost in support outside of urban areas.

Warisan has significant gaps in winning some seats in the east coast, the north and the west coast of Sabah. It does not have the same momentum that it had in 2018 across the state as a whole, although its core supporters are more enthusiastic and hopeful of victory than ever.

The test for Warisan will be whether (and if so, how many) it wins over its 2020 result, when it won 23 seats.

3. GRS remains strong: Staying with safety

Hajiji Noor’s incumbent coalition remains strong with a combination of stalwarts and resources. With the support of Parti Bersatu Sabah, GRS has always been an underrated contender in these polls. After PKR, GRS has the most money in the 17th Sabah election, and it has made Umno’s machinery of the past its own.

GRS should win over 20 seats, if its money continues to go to the ground. If this happens, GRS may reach over the 30 mark.

Yet, the driver of the support from below is one of safety, rather than adoration. Voters who support GRS support it because they see it as what they know, and modest improvements.

They also often have greater trust in the local candidates, who are also well known. The adage “the devil you know is better than you don’t” rings true, although many see the popular GRS local candidates, such as Ghulamhaidar @ Yusof bin Khan Bahadar in Kawang and Masidi Manjun in Karaanan, as more of a potential rescuer for times of need.

Realities of survival and vulnerability reinforce support for a status quo, especially when that status quo is cloaked in the “local party” branding.

4. Damaged Harapan: Red anger

The campaign has been the most heated against Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, whose trust deficit among voters has been on display. Harapan will be hurt in this election, not least from the fact that it has already split, and the exit door has opened.

The circumstances that pushed Ewon out should have been avoided of the 40 percent revenue payment, and the “colonial” rebukes by peninsula leaders abstained from.

The subsequent political scandal, reportedly tying PKR to the mining scandal, has only eroded trust in Harapan further.

DAP should win some seats, based on performance delivery and likeability of the candidate - but the last-minute anger over corruption/silence over reforms and overeager defences of alienating comments about Sabah rights have seriously hurt the party.

PKR has adopted the honed practices of Malaysian incumbent power and is using resources from multimedia to other state departments, repeatedly pushing its control of federal power in the campaign.

In fact, in many of the constituencies PKR is contesting, there is a “red flood” that is bigger than BN and PN's resource campaigns of the past, tied to the levers of being in power.

This may give PKR a chance in seats like Merotai (where Anwar visited three times), Kamarunting and Inanam, but trust in Anwar has dropped considerably, replaced in many cases by an outright “tolak” (reject) push.

5. Reduced BN: Steady but eroded support

Umno-BN is fighting for its political life in Sabah. The state has long been an integral part of Umno’s national strength and, in turn, Umno has been an integral part of the state since its entry in 1994.

BN lacks the resources of the past and has been more focused in its outreach due to less resources. It has opted for a steady, ground candidate-centred (but uneven) campaign, hoping that a renewal of its candidates and efforts to strengthen its engagement around “buat kerja” (do work) and representing its traditional core supporters will yield results.

The last few days of this campaign will be instrumental for BN, which looks to reduce its seats from the 14 it won in 2020. If things go BN’s way it could win 20, but it looks more likely to win less than 10 seats.

If the money tide turns against them, BN could win less than even five seats. Here too, BN’s machinery will be critical if it can bring out their traditional voters in what is expected to be challenging weather tomorrow.

6. Expect the unexpected underdog

The uncertainty around the poll points to the emergence of smaller political forces. Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (Star), Upko, Parti Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat (KDM), Black Wave and PN are all underdogs in this campaign, although in particular seats some of these parties are favoured.

Upko’s Ewon Benedick is contesting in Kadamaian


Good examples are Ewon in Kadamaian and Wetrom Bahanda in Matunggong.

All of these parties should win at least one seat, with the exception of PN. PAS has a chance in both Karambunai and Balung, largely due to their social media and stealth (look like Sabahans, not traditional PAS members) campaigns.

Bersatu’s Ronald Kiandee in Sugut and Labuk cannot be ruled out, but these areas have been GRS bombed with resources multiple times.

PN faces a test to see if they are a national opposition/coalition and have tapped into youth support with targeted resources, despite challenges. Sabah has been difficult terrain for these parties since the end of the Muhyiddin Yassin Bersatu-led government.

Upko, Star, KDM and the Black Wave have all been working to win support, especially among Kadazan-Dusun-Murut-Rungus voters. Upko and Star have had the best narratives, both relying on sentiment with limited resources, while KDM and Black Wave have been primarily candidate-based with flush resources from unknown sources.

Three Independents to watch are Fairuz Redden in Pintasan, Verdon Bahanda in Tanjong Kapor and Jordan Ellron in Tulid.

Sabah always brings surprises. No question some of these underdog smaller parties/individuals will win seats, and they will be pivotal in whichever coalition/party is able to form government.

The campaign is coming down to the wire. My overview – based on ground fieldwork and an appreciation of uncertainties (money/machinery flow) as of this morning shows more than a third of the seats too close/uncertain to call.

Among the 27 uncertain seats are Bandau, Tamparuli, Tanjong Kapor, Paginatan, Bingkor, Karambunai, Petagas, Pantai Manis, Sindumin, Kukusan, Melalap, Sungai Sibuga, Sekong, to name just a few of these.

This uncertain group is where the balance of power will swing, to which party/coalition will have the most seats to negotiate from.

Discussions about alliances have been underway and likely will intensify after tomorrow. For now, however, the balance of power will be in the hands of Sabahans.

Until the end of polling tomorrow, after which the men will sing, Sabahans have more power to determine the outcome than ever. Every vote will count in these contests, especially in the swing, uncertain seats.

Whatever happens, however, one message will be clear. Sabahans want more power, local voices and representation. Whoever will be the ones entrusted to deliver on this message remains uncertain.

BRIDGET WELSH is an honorary research associate of the University of Nottingham’s Asia Research Institute, a senior research associate at Hu Fu Centre for East Asia Democratic Studies, and a senior associate fellow at The Habibie Centre. Her writings can be found at bridgetwelsh.com.

She is on the ground in Sabah researching the polls, and her written analysis can be found exclusively in Malaysiakini and through her self-funded podcast Kerusi Panas Sabah.

Sabah’s multi-corner races are so crowded that even ballot papers need extra boxes

Sabah’s multi-corner races are so crowded that even ballot papers need extra boxes



Election Commission (SPR) Chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun is seen with the checked ballot boxes for the 17th Sabah State Election (PRN), in Tuaran on November 28, 2025. — Bernama pic

Friday, 28 Nov 2025 8:35 PM MYT


KOTA KINABALU, Nov 28 — The Election Commission (EC) said the use of additional ballot boxes in several constituencies during tomorrow’s 17th Sabah State Election is due to the larger ballot paper size.

EC secretary Datuk Khairul Shahril said these ballot boxes will be used in streams with larger candidate and voter numbers.

“For constituencies facing seven- to 12-cornered contests, one ballot box will be used if the number of voters is fewer than 450 people, while two ballot boxes will be required if there are more than 450 voters.

“For constituencies facing 13- and 14-cornered fights, two ballot boxes are required if the number of voters is fewer than 450 people, and three boxes if there are more than 450 voters,” it said in a statement today.


He also said the EC had conducted the process of checking voting equipment, such as ballot boxes, indelible ink, ballot papers and electoral rolls, for use on polling day tomorrow to ensure everything is complete and in good condition.

A total of 1,742,934 voters are set to cast their ballots at the Sabah polls this time, with 882 polling stations and 3,559 voting streams opening simultaneously at 7.30 am tomorrow and closing in stages between noon and 5.30 pm.

He added that 28,533 personnel will be on duty tomorrow. — Bernama

Indians Power Trump’s “America First” Campaign! X Location Tags Spill The Secret On MAGA Warriors

Friday, November 28, 2025


Indians Power Trump’s “America First” Campaign! X Location Tags Spill The Secret On MAGA Warriors

By Sumit Ahlawat


“America First!”, “Build the Wall!”, “They’re Rapists!” “No more Amnesty!”, and “Deport them All!”, are just some of the popular MAGA slogans.

At the heart of all these slogans is a sentiment that America is for the Americans. They helped shape a narrative that ‘outsiders’ are ‘invading’ the US, termed ‘A Silent Invasion’ by the MAGA supporters.

They contended that outsiders are coming to the US, stealing our jobs, and replacing the American/Christian cultural ethos.

They demanded mass deportations, stronger border control, and stricter H-1B visa norms.

These slogans propelled Donald Trump to the White House a second time in January this year.

A lot of these culture and narrative wars are fought on X (formerly Twitter) every day.

Now, thanks to a new location feature on X, it turns out that even these narratives and culture wars were fueled by foreign lands, most prominently by Indians.


For instance, a popular X account called “TRUMP_ARMY” (over half a million followers, including a senior Republican senator) is based in India, and its username has changed four times since March 2022, the last in July 2022.

Another account called “IvankaNews_”, which describes itself as a fan account for Trump’s daughter, has gathered more than one million followers and has previously posted about voting for the president last year.

Credits Platform X.


However, the account is based in Nigeria, and its username has changed 11 times since 2010, according to X.

Another account, ‘MAGA NATION’, with over 392,000 followers, is based in Eastern Europe. Similarly, ‘Dark Maga’ (15,000 followers) is based out of Thailand. ‘MAGA Scope’, which boasts over 51,000 followers, is actually based in Nigeria, and ‘America First’, with over 67,000 followers, is based in Bangladesh.

Though MAGA supporters are not the only ones who are enraged, it turns out that a lot of popular anti-government X accounts in India are based outside of India.

Similarly, many X accounts claiming to be activists based in Gaza were operating from Europe.

This, in essence, sums up the ironies of the modern US polity, or of political discourse in any country.

Two decades ago, as we entered the new millennium, we were told that the World Wide Web would turn the whole world into a ‘global village’.


That might not have happened. If anything, we are living in a world with increasingly stringent visa restrictions. Freedom of movement is limited to those born into ideologically similar political systems and those with large bank balances.

However, regardless of strengthened national boundaries or the erection of new border walls (for instance, the US-Mexico border wall or the fencing of the Pakistan-Afghanistan border), there is one space where national boundaries have literally disappeared. The virtual space.

Ukraine and Europe are planning to build a drone wall on their frontiers with Russia. That drone wall might be effective against Russian soldiers.

Still, it will be of no use against Russian online propaganda that, many Western governments complain, has permeated online political discourse in those countries, creating instability, questioning the credibility of institutions, fueling culture wars, and influencing elections.

While the problem is not limited to a single platform, Twitter is in many ways the prime site where these ideological, cultural, and narrative wars are fought.
Twitter (X): Not Social Media But Political Tool Par Excellence

According to a recent Pew Research Center paper, ‘Americans’ Social Media Use 2025,’ YouTube is the most popular social media platform in the US, followed by Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp, Reddit, Snapchat, and Twitter.

Even among young people (ages 18-30), Twitter is not very popular.

In this age group, YouTube is once again the most popular, followed by Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat, Reddit, WhatsApp, and Twitter.

In terms of Daily active users (DAUs), while over 125 million Americans use YouTube and Facebook, Twitter’s DAUs are around 26 million. Meaning for every one active Twitter user in the US, there are five Facebook and YouTube users.

However, despite this minuscule number, Twitter wields disproportionate influence in shaping the US political agenda.

Similarly, in India, only 24 million people actively use Twitter, which is less than 2 % of the country’s population of 1.4 billion. However, despite this minuscule number, Twitter often sets the agenda of mainstream media and political discourse in India.

One important reason is the demographic profile of Twitter users.

According to the Pew Research Center paper, in the US, Twitter use is more common among Asians, young people, those with an average household income of over USD 70000, highly educated people, urban residents, and Republican supporters.

Credits Pew Research Centre.


In other words, Twitter use is more common among elites.

Another reason is how people use Twitter. Every social media platform carves out a niche audience. For instance, YouTube is used for watching videos and talk shows, Instagram for sharing images, TikTok for reels, WhatsApp for messaging, and Twitter for staying updated on political developments and news, and for expressing opinions.

Furthermore, Twitter is more influential because of its widespread use by political elites and journalists, leading to an intermedia agenda-setting effect that shapes mainstream media coverage.

Twitter is used extensively by politicians, pundits, journalists, and other public figures. These actors use the platform for direct communication, bypassing institutional restrictions and the mainstream media.

Additionally, mainstream news outlets (TV, radio, newspapers) frequently monitor Twitter for breaking news, story ideas, direct quotes, and public reaction to events. What goes viral on Twitter often becomes a headline in traditional media, effectively driving public debate on a much broader scale than the platform’s user numbers would suggest.

Additionally, Twitter users are generally more politically interested and engaged than the general population. A smaller, highly active segment of users produces a large volume of political content, amplifying certain topics and creating a perception of widespread public opinion, even if it doesn’t reflect the general public.

A man in a Make America Great Again (MAGA) hat cheers amid members of the US army as the US president speaks at Fort Bragg, a US Army military installation, near Fayetteville, North Carolina, on June 10, 2025. (Photo by Brendan SMIALOWSKI / AFP)


In effect, Twitter is less of a social media platform than a political tool to shape (and manipulate) public opinion and to set the political agenda, the modern equivalent of the “public sphere”.

The German sociologist and philosopher Jürgen Habermas coined the term “public sphere” in his 1962 book, ‘The Structural Transformation of the Public Sphere‘. He defined it as a social space where individuals can come together to discuss matters of common interest and form public opinion, acting as an intermediary between the state and the citizens.

In the digital age, Twitter has taken the role of the ‘public sphere’.

However, unlike the US primary elections or the US Presidential elections, in which only citizens can participate, on Twitter, literally anyone (even foreigners) can join the debate, shape or manipulate public opinion, and set the agenda.

These foreign actors can have diverse interests and motivations. It can range from more benign reasons, such as earning money (accounts that generate more engagement earn more from the US market than anywhere else), to more dangerous motivations, such as destabilizing a society, creating conflict and social unrest, or influencing elections.

They can act as lone warriors or as large, coordinated groups on behalf of foreign states.

This manipulation of public opinion by foreign actors is akin to “digital infiltration,” in which accounts based abroad can influence the US political agenda without ever crossing the physical border.

Genuine citizens and MAGA supporters are correct in feeling cheated and enraged on finding that many of the accounts they followed are actually based in India, Pakistan, and Nigeria.

Even if the narrative is “America First,” if it’s driven from New Delhi or Islamabad, the impact is similar: loss of agency or disenfranchisement.

In this sense, Twitter’s new policy of showing account locations is a welcome step that will ensure greater transparency; however, the rules are still evolving, and there is considerable confusion.

For instance, what about those who deliberately use VPNs not to spread disinformation, but to escape the wrath of repressive governments?

What if genuine US citizens are based in a foreign country?

While the new Twitter policy is welcome, more robust identity checks must be put in place to ensure that citizens know who they’re following.

Foreign accounts can participate in public discourse, but it should not happen under the cloak of secrecy or deliberate disinformation.

Sumit Ahlawat has over a decade of experience in news media. He has worked with Press Trust of India, Times Now, Zee News, Economic Times, and Microsoft News. He holds a Master’s Degree in International Media and Modern History from the University of Sheffield, UK.

From Riduan to Haresh: Two Shocking Police Claims in One Week Raise More Questions Than Answers

OPINION | From Riduan to Haresh: Two Shocking Police Claims in One Week Raise More Questions Than Answers


28 Nov 2025 • 5:00 PM MYT


TheRealNehruism
An award-winning Newswav creator, Bebas News columnist & ex-FMT columnist

Image credit: Focus Malaysia / Malaysian Gazette


In the span of a few days, Malaysians were confronted with two troubling developments—each involving the police, each involving violence or disappearance, and each culminating in explanations that leave the public uneasy rather than reassured.
Indira Gandhi’s Endless Search Meets a New Twist

Sixteen years after M. Indira Gandhi’s ex-husband, Riduan Abdullah, abducted their youngest child, the case has once again resurfaced—not because of a breakthrough, but because of a new and unsettling theory.


Inspector-General of Police Khalid Ismail suggested that “someone else” may have used Riduan’s identity to receive government aid such as Budi 95 and SARA. It is a claim that raises more questions than answers. If such aid was claimed, why haven’t authorities traced the transactions? Where are the CCTV recordings, the bank verifications, the identity checks that should accompany such financial assistance?


Indira’s lawyer, Rajesh Nagarajan, did not hide his disappointment. He described the IGP’s comments as “deeply troubling,” highlighting that these speculative explanations appear to be filling the gaps left by basic investigative steps that should have been completed long ago.


The Ipoh High Court’s recent decision to order police to broaden their search underscores this deficiency. Despite police citing “18 case managements,” the court found it necessary to remind them that a national fugitive requires a national-level search—not one confined to a single state.



“It confirmed what we have long said – the investigation has been narrow, ineffective and directionless,” Rajesh said .


For context, Riduan had converted their three children to Islam in 2009 without Indira’s consent and sought custody through the shariah court.


Riduan failed to return Prasana, their youngest child, after losing a legal battle over custody and the religious conversion of their children.


On Jan 29, 2018, the Federal Court ruled that the conversions were null and void, and ordered the IGP to arrest Riduan for defying the High Court’s directive to return Prasana.


The Ipoh High Court on Nov 21 ordered the police to widen the search for Riduan, with Justice Norsharidah Awang saying that it should be extended across the entire country.


Despite being a wanted man, it is concerning that a “special travel restriction” on Riduan do not appear in immigration records. After 16 years, this case should be marked by clarity, not confusion. The public is rightfully asking: how is it that Malaysia’s institutions can monitor millions of citizens daily yet remain unable to trace one individual?

The Assault on Haresh Deol and the Puzzle of “Personal Motive”

In a separate incident, veteran journalist Haresh Deol was violently assaulted in Bangsar by three men, one of whom reportedly filmed the assault. The attack drew swift condemnation from organisations such as FAM and PEN Malaysia, who described it as an intimidation attempt against a journalist known for reporting on governance and accountability.


The police, however, have suggested that the assault was motivated by “personal issues.” Haresh himself has firmly rejected this, stating that he has “no personal issues with anyone.” If the victim denies having such conflicts, and the suspect is a stranger to him, the claim of “personal motive” feels incomplete at best.


“I would like to ask: whose personal issue is at play here? I want to reiterate that I do not have personal issues with anyone,” Haresh said during a podcast.


“What are the suspect’s personal issues with me?


“As a journalist, I am supposed to be writing news, not become the news. But what happened was the exact opposite.”


Given Haresh’s long record of investigative reporting—especially on governance issues within Malaysian sports— His recent work includes investigative reporting on the national football team’s naturalisation scandal- the explanation that this attack was purely personal may not sit comfortably with observers. Without transparency, it risks appearing like an effort to steer attention away from potential systemic or institutional implications.

A Shared Thread: Explanations That Obscure Rather Than Clarify

Both cases—though unrelated—share an unfortunate similarity: official explanations that seem to do little to illuminate what truly happened.


In Indira Gandhi’s case, the police appear to be relying on speculative theories rather than concrete investigative findings. In Haresh Deol’s case, the label of “personal motive” feels insufficient, especially when the victim himself refutes it.


In both situations, the public is left with the impression that crucial information is either missing or not being shared. When explanations are vague or contradictory, confidence in institutions inevitably erodes.

The Public Deserves Answers, Not Ambiguity

Indira’s lawyer captured the sentiment succinctly: Malaysians deserve facts, not conjecture.


The disappearance of a child for over a decade, and a violent attack on a journalist, are not matters that should be handled with theories that raise additional questions. They require thorough, transparent, and credible investigations.


Until such clarity is provided, both cases will remain symbols of a deeper concern: when institutions are unable—or unwilling—to offer clear answers, the public is left navigating uncertainty on its own.

Indonesian town buries seven dead in mass grave as Sumatra floods kill 94

Indonesian town buries seven dead in mass grave as Sumatra floods kill 94



People stay on the riverbanks during flooding in Padang, West Sumatra province on November 27, 2025. — AFP pic

Friday, 28 Nov 2025 4:18 PM MYT


BATANG TORU (Indonesia), Nov 28 — Families gathered at a health centre in the Indonesian town of Batang Toru on Friday, desperate for news about missing loved ones, as locals dug a mass grave to bury seven unclaimed victims of the cyclonic rains that have battered the country’s western-most island of Sumatra.

The rains caused floods and landslides in three provinces across Sumatra island, killing at least 94 people, according to Indonesia’s disaster agencies.Nearly 80,000 people have been evacuated and about 80 people are still missing.

In Batang Toru, where at least 21 have died, residents lifted seven decomposing bodies, wrapped in black plastic, from the back of a truck onto a wide plot of land belonging to a state plantation firm, while an excavator dumped clumps of dirt to bury them in a mass grave.

“We found 21 bodies that were placed in a health centre... the seven will be buried,” said Mara Tinggi, chief of Batang Toru town, which is located in the worst-hit province of North Sumatra.


There is no morgue to store the bodies to wait for loved ones to arrive, residents told Reuters. Many at the health centre, surrounded by felled trees, had to hold their noses because of the stench of the decomposing bodies.


Indonesian authorities are rushing to respond to the worst rains and floods to hit the region in years. The death toll has risen sharply over the last 24 hours, and officials fear it may increase further.

Road access remains minimal and critical infrastructure, including power and communications, has been severely affected, the disaster mitigation agency said.


The agency said the search for the missing continued on Friday. Authorities were working to restore power and clear roads that have been blocked by landslide debris.

In West Sumatra, over 100 people still remain stranded in their homes, awaiting help and aid, said Ilham Wahab, spokesperson for the local search and rescue agency.

Floods across South-east Asia, which also hit Thailand and Malaysia, have per Friday killed 183 people. — Reuters

Tengku Zafrul likely to ‘support’ govt in new role after Senate term ends, says Fahmi

Tengku Zafrul likely to ‘support’ govt in new role after Senate term ends, says Fahmi



Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz speaks during the launch of the new Proton Saga model at Mitec in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. — Picture by Firdaus Latif

Friday, 28 Nov 2025 5:23 PM MYT


PUTRAJAYA, Nov 28 — Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz is likely to continue assisting the government in another capacity despite his term as senator ending next week.

Fahmi added that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed his gratitude to Tengku Zafrul for his service and contributions throughout his tenure.

“He (Tengku Zafrul) is very likely to continue supporting the government in the future in a different capacity, position or role,” Fahmi told reporters during the ministry’s weekly press conference.

“However, no specific role or position has been announced, and it will be revealed in due course,” he added.


Fahmi said the prime minister conveyed appreciation for Tengku Zafrul’s service, noting his contributions to investment and trade discussions.

Tengku Zafrul, who has served two terms as a senator since 2020, will conclude his six-year tenure in the Dewan Negara on December 2.

He held his current ministerial role throughout his time in the Senate, which is the maximum period allowed.

Albert Tei - a 'Pamela Ling' Redux??

'They pointed a gun at him, deleted videos on phones': Albert's wife

B Nantha Kumar
Published: Nov 28, 2025 2:24 PM
Updated: 5:42 PM



Businessperson Albert Tei’s wife alleged that MACC officers were heavy-handed when raiding her home today, with the officers pointing a gun at the former before handcuffing him.

Recounting her ordeal, Tei’s wife, who wished to be known only as Lee, said the officers barged into their home through the main door.

“At the time, Tei was already heading downstairs before he was instructed to move to a corner.

“Soon, he was instructed to lie on the floor, and a few officers handcuffed him, with one pointing a gun at Tei from a distance,” Lee told Malaysiakini.

Once the officers were settled with Tei, Lee alleged that her other family members were instructed to move to another corner.

Subsequently, she claimed that the officers confiscated their mobile phones, including the children’s, purportedly to delete videos and images from the devices.

“They took away all our phones… deleted all the videos… but I’m unsure what got deleted,” Lee said, adding that the devices were later returned.

Later, Lee claimed that the officers also used a red-coloured device to check her home, seemingly in an attempt to find something.

“They checked everywhere… the curtains, our bags… everywhere.

“Perhaps, they were looking for other cameras,” she added.

Raid in full tactical gear

Earlier, MACC officers in full tactical gear - including bulletproof vests and balaclavas - raided Tei’s home and escorted him into an unmarked black sedan.

His legal counsel, Zaid Malek, who recorded the video, was heard asking the officers repeatedly where they were taking Tei and to speak to the officer in charge, but to no avail.

Zaid Malek


Tei, who is the central figure in a slew of corruption allegations against prominent politicians, was seen raising his hands to the camera several times while chanting “lawan tetap lawan” (we fight on) before he was placed inside the car.

In a twist, the officers returned to Tei’s home within minutes, only to take him away again later.

Akin to kidnapping

Later, when met by Malaysiakini at Tei’s home, Zaid said the MACC officers had left for a second time at approximately 12.50pm, with the businessperson in their custody, without disclosing where they were taking him.

Likening the authorities’ actions to an act of kidnapping, Zaid slammed the officers for acting unjustly and behaving in a way that “makes it seem like the law doesn’t exist in Malaysia.”

“Not a single MACC or police officer showed me their authority card.

“I asked them repeatedly where (Tei) was being taken to, and not a single officer informed me (of the details),” he stated.

He confirmed that while Tei had been issued a search warrant for his home, the document was sent from “an unknown number claiming to be a MACC officer” who allegedly failed to state his identity.


Mining licence scandal

Tei has been on a warpath to take down politicians whom he allegedly gave money to for mineral exploration licences, which he did not end up getting.

His latest accusation was levelled against Malacca PKR chief Shamsul Iskandar Akin, whom Tei claimed he had spent RM629,000 on.

Shamsul, who is a former political secretary to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, had purportedly assured Tei that he could recoup the money channelled to politicians in Sabah.

Shamsul Iskandar Akin


Tei had also furnished Malaysiakini with WhatsApp screenshots from December 2023 in which Shamsul purportedly requested money while travelling abroad.

In another snippet of Tei’s conversation with Shamsul’s alleged proxy, it was alleged that Anwar had given the green light for Tei to record his conversations about kickbacks with Sabah politicians.

Shamsul has since resigned as Anwar’s political secretary in anticipation of the accusations levelled against him. He has vowed to defend himself.

He has lodged a police report against Tei over a claim linking Anwar to video recordings of several Sabah politicians in the mining licence scandal.

MACC is expected to record Shamsul’s statement today.

Malaysian volunteers suspend flood rescue operations in Hatyai

FMT:

Malaysian volunteers suspend flood rescue operations in Hatyai

They have managed to help at least 1,500 Malaysians return to the country

Sungai Petani volunteer fire and rescue team chairman Leong Beng Tat said all new requests for aid will be channelled directly to the Thai military and police for further action. (X pic)

PETALING JAYA: Malaysian volunteer rescuers in Hatyai, Thailand, suspended operations after the nation’s military declared several areas dangerous and unsafe to enter.

Sungai Petani volunteer fire and rescue team chairman Leong Beng Tat said rescue operations, ongoing for the past five days with volunteers from Johor, Perak, Selangor and several other northern states, were halted at 7pm yesterday.

Leong said Thai authorities had identified several flooded zones as high-risk, with strong currents, collapsed structures and unstable pathways.


“We are aware that there are still Malaysians in the affected areas, but the volunteers have been barred from continuing operations.

“All new requests for aid will be channelled directly to the Thai military and police for further action,” Harian Metro reported him as saying.

Leong said he hoped Malaysians would continue to provide moral support for volunteer fire and rescue teams who frequently go to the front lines during disasters.

“The volunteers have borne their own costs to rescue Malaysians stranded in Thailand. Some of us were injured, but we remain grateful that we have managed to rescue many Malaysian tourists,” he said.

Leong said the volunteers had helped at least 1,500 Malaysians return to the country over the past five days.

In a statement, the foreign ministry said that fewer than 300 Malaysians remained stranded, with two hotels where Malaysians are staying still inaccessible due to high water levels.


Wisma Putra said a large-scale rescue operation was carried out between 8am and 1pm yesterday to evacuate stranded Malaysians, with the assistance of the Thai army.

It said efforts would continue until all affected Malaysians had been assisted.

Students allegedly beat Form Four boy unconscious in hostel toilet, police detain four

Students allegedly beat Form Four boy unconscious in hostel toilet, police detain four



Kuala Muda police chief ACP Hanyan Ramlan said the victim’s mother was informed of the incident at 9.05am by a teacher, who told her that her son had been discovered unconscious in the toilet. — Unsplash pic/M.T ElGassier

Friday, 28 Nov 2025 9:59 AM MYT


SUNGAI PETANI, Nov 28 — A Form Four male student at a school near here was left unconscious in a toilet, after he was allegedly beaten by a group of students on Monday.

Kuala Muda police chief ACP Hanyan Ramlan said the victim’s mother learned about the incident when she was contacted by a school teacher at 9.05am yesterday, informing her that her son was found unconscious in the school hostel toilet.

“The victim’s mother said her son was sent to the hospital for treatment. She also claimed that the incident happened in the middle of the night involving several students,” he said in a statement today.

Hanyan said that initial investigations show the victim allegedly bad-mouthed a friend of one of the students, who later rounded up three other students to confront the victim.

“Following the alleged assault, four male students aged between 16 and 17 were detained for investigation, and one of the 16-year-old students was remanded for three days from today,” he said, adding that the case is being investigated under Section 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) and Section 507B of the Penal Code (harassment, fear through abusive words, act). — Bernama

Anwar says 40pc Sabah revenue return ‘no longer an issue’, current govt succeeded where others failed

Anwar says 40pc Sabah revenue return ‘no longer an issue’, current govt succeeded where others failed



Prime Minister and PH chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim campaigns at the Harapan Urang Sabah Carnival in Petagas, Putatan yesterday. — Bernama pic

Friday, 28 Nov 2025 10:27 AM MYT


KOTA KINABALU, Nov 28 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stressed that the return of 40 per cent of revenue from Sabah to the state was no longer an issue as it would be implemented by the Madani Government.

In fact, he said that the matter had also been explained by him in Parliament as a prime minister who wanted to defend the welfare of the people of Sabah.

“Why complain about 40 per cent? Now this government, during the Cabinet meeting has already discussed it. I checked with the Cabinet, all agree with 40 per cent? Agreed. Want to appeal (in court)? No. Forty per cent done? Yes, done.

“Is that possible? I said in Parliament as prime minister in Parliament. Done. Forty per cent is no longer an issue. It will be implemented. Which government? The current government. Before? None. This is what we have to do,” he said.


He said this when speaking at the Harapan Urang Sabah Grand Finale Programme at the Likas Stadium parking area here today.

Regarding Pakatan Harapan’s (PH) decision to contest in Sabah, Anwar stressed that the party had no intention of vying for the Sabah Chief Minister’s post, but instead wanted to work together to strengthen the state government.

The PH chairman also emphasised the importance of a strong state government and a good relationship with the Federal Government as both sides needed to listen to and learn from one another.


“If the state government is weak, they must get along with us, and we also get along with them. We listen to them, they listen to us. We do not know everything, we must learn. But we work together as a team,” he said.

He said the cooperation between the Federal and state governments was also crucial to bringing more development especially in this era of information technology and artificial intelligence (AI).

“This (Malaysia) is among the countries moving forward. But I do not want digital (technology) only for the rich at the top. I want everyone (to benefit). Digital for the people. AI for the people. That is why cooperation between the Federal and state governments has to be very good,” he said.

The prime minister said among the initiatives implemented by the Federal Government to enhance Sabah’s digital capability was the construction of a RM2 billion undersea cable linking the peninsula, Sarawak and Sabah.

He said the project would narrow the digital gap between the peninsula, Sabah and Sarawak.

However, he said that the advancement of digital technology must benefit the people and not only certain groups.

For the latest news on the 17th Sabah State Election, visit https://prn.bernama.com/sabah/index.php. — Bernama

***

Sabah polls sound bad for Pakatan, which may be probably why Anwar is so frantic with his message of appeasement.

Grief and grim photos: Hong Kong families search for loved ones after deadly blaze

Grief and grim photos: Hong Kong families search for loved ones after deadly blaze



A relative reacts before identifying a family member from photos at Kwong Fuk Community Hall following the Wang Fuk Court housing estate fire, in Tai Po, Hong Kong, China, November 27, 2025. — Reuters pic

Friday, 28 Nov 2025 9:27 AM MYT


HONG KONG, Nov 28 — A middle-aged woman emerged, weeping and clinging to her companion, from a community hall now used as a victim identification station in the shadow of smouldering apartment towers that mark Hong Kong’s worst fire in decades.

Dozens passed through the station on Thursday desperately seeking news of loved ones after the blaze tore through a residential estate in the north-eastern district of Tai Po, killing at least 75 people and injuring and displacing hundreds more.


The small hall was set up so people could look through dozens of pictures of the dead. A makeshift sign on a nearby wall read simply: “Photo-viewing.”

Paramedics and social workers stood ready inside.


“I cannot find my family members in the photos... If they have more photos, I may come again to take a look,” said a woman surnamed Cheung, whose sister and brother-in-law are missing.


“I cannot describe my feelings. There were children... “ an emotional Cheung said after leafing through the pages of photos.

Karen Lam, a social worker running a support centre next door, told AFP that her team had seen “a few cases” of distraught residents who required help.


The mood was sombre as people waited in groups to be led in, with onlookers being kept away by police and media access limited.

A 77-year-old man surnamed Lai said he wanted to help his sister identify a missing friend.

“(The friend) didn’t reply to messages. We can’t say for sure the worst has happened, maybe fortune smiles on them,” Lai said

‘My superhero’

Hong Kong leader John Lee said in the early hours of Thursday that 297 people were unaccounted for, although firefighters said later they had made contact with some of them.

Yayuk, a 40-year-old Indonesian woman, told AFP she could not find her elder sister Sri-Wahyuni, who worked and lived in a household in the estate.

“I couldn’t sleep the whole night. This morning I went to the consulate to ask if she was checked into the hospital,” she said.

The Indonesian consulate in Hong Kong said on Thursday two Indonesian nationals had been killed in the fire and two others injured.

Some family members of the deceased travelled to a mortuary in the city’s Shatin district to identify bodies, Hong Kong media reported.

Among the dead was a 37-year-old firefighter, who was found with burns to his face half an hour after losing contact with colleagues.

A woman reported to be his girlfriend wrote on social media that she had lost her “superhero”, posting a black-and-white picture.

“My superhero has completed his mission and returned to Krypton. I’m proud of you,” she wrote.

“I really can’t accept this. I really, really want to hold your hand again.” — AFP

Zara Qairina inquest: Findings of five school investigations kept as ‘internal records’ and not shared with police, court told

Zara Qairina inquest: Findings of five school investigations kept as ‘internal records’ and not shared with police, court told



This file picture shows a view of the Sabah girls boarding school for girls, SMKA Tun Datu Muspha Limauan, in Papar, where 13-year-old Zara Qairina Mahathir was found unconscious and bleeding on the ground floor in the early morning hours of July 16, 2025. — Bernama pic

Friday, 28 Nov 2025 9:27 AM MYT


KOTA KINABALU, Nov 28 — A teacher from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Agama (SMKA) Tun Datu Mustapha acknowledged that the school conducted five internal investigations into Zara Qairina Mahathir’s death; however, the findings were not submitted to the police.

The school's assistant head of discipline, 38-year-old Nurul Syahadah Ibrahim, stated that the reports were not submitted to the authorities as they were deemed internal records, notwithstanding the school's confidence in the police's investigative capabilities.

The 54th witness testified yesterday that these inquiries were conducted on July 16 and 17 and again on August 4, 5 and 13, involving several students, including the five pupils identified as the last to have seen Zara Qairina.

She was being examined by deputy public prosecutor and conducting officer, Mohd Fairuz Johari, during the inquest into Zara Qairina's death before Coroner Amir Shah Amir Hassan.


Nurul Syahadah further admitted that the findings of all five internal investigations were never formally reported to the school principal, but were instead referred to the assistant principal of Student Affairs.

“At that time, the principal was occupied with liaising with various parties, including the District Education Office and State Education Department,” she said.

When questioned by Rizwandean M Borhan, counsel representing Zara Qairina's mother, the witness testified that the findings were not disclosed to the deceased's mother to prevent speculation.


“We wished to avoid giving rise to any speculation. I had no ill intent in this matter; I am also a mother myself... I disagree with the suggestion that we deliberately concealed this information from Zara Qairina's mother,” she emphasised.

Recalling her memories of the deceased, Nurul Syahadah said that while she never taught the student any subjects, she had received a pencil case as a gift from her during Teacher’s Day celebrations on May 20.

“I rarely interacted with her, so I was surprised to receive the gift. The school's discipline unit had never taken any disciplinary action against her. She had also expressed interest in joining the Dakwah and Rohani (Badar) Society.

“I was informed of this matter by a student on July 17, after her passing. To the best of my recollection, approximately one week before the incident, she had expressed an intention to meet with me regarding becoming a Badar member.

“This remains a positive memory, as it was unprecedented for a student to express such an interest,” she testified.

Zara Qairina, 13, died on July 17 at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, where she had been admitted a day earlier after being found unconscious near a drain at her school hostel in Papar at 4am.

The Attorney General's Chambers ordered her remains exhumed for a post-mortem on August 8, before announcing a formal inquest into her death on August 13.

The inquest proceedings will resume today. — Bernama

Dragon boats, dumplings and the evil double fifth: Legends of the Duan Wu Festival

Dragon boats, dumplings and the evil double fifth: Legends of the Duan Wu Festival



The Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta 2024 held at Straits Quay. — Picture courtesy of Petace

Friday, 28 Nov 2025 7:00 AM MYT


GEORGE TOWN, Nov 28 — Each year, on the fifth day of the fifth Chinese lunar month, the Duan Wu Festival is celebrated as either the Dragon Boat Festival or the Zongzi (Bak Chang/Joong) Festival.

This date often falls around May or June and it is the time when bak chang (as it’s called in Penang) are often sold and shared among families in celebration of the festival.

Dragon boat racing is another important component of the festival that has grown and become a popular sport, especially in the last four decades since the first Hong Kong International Races was held in 1976.


The story of Qu Yuan

There were many stories behind the origins of the Duan Wu Festival, but the most popular story has to be about the famous poet, Qu Yuan.

According to Chinese historical records, Qu Yuan was an official of Chu State in southern China in the second century.

It was believed that Qu Yuan was wrongfully banished by the king when he warned of possible invasion by the northern state, Qin.


This was when he penned the poems he was known for, Lisao, Suffering Throes and J’iu Ge.

In 278 BCE, the Qin armies, led by General Bai Qi, occupied the capital of Chu and destroyed the imperial palace.

Heartbroken by the invasion, on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month in 279 BCE, Qu Yuan drowned himself in the Miluo River.

It was believed that fishermen tried to save him but when they failed to do so, they threw cooked rice balls in the river so that the fish would not feed on Qu Yuan’s body.

According to another version of the tale, the rice balls were eaten by the river dragon — so the villagers began wrapping them in bamboo or reed leaves to keep the creature from eating them.

In yet another version, the fishermen paddled their dragon boats up and down the river in a frantic search for Qu Yuan — a gesture that later inspired today’s dragon boat races held in his honour.

The story of Wu Zixu

Another popular story linked to the dragon boat festival is the story of Wu Zixu, also in Chu State.

Wu’s father was a royal tutor but the king, misled by false reports of rebellion plots, ordered for Wu’s father and older brother to be executed.



The Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta 2024 held at Straits Quay. Penang hosted its very first international dragon boat festival in 1979, just two years after Hong Kong, and it was participated by 66 teams from Indonesia, Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia. — Picture courtesy of Petace



Wu Zixu then fled to another state and plotted revenge against the Chu rulers by helping the state of Wu conquer Chu.

However, he was later betrayed and forced to kill himself on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month.

His body was then thrown in the river where it was believed that his fury created raging tides.

He was also worshipped as a river god and the dragon boat festival was believed to be held in memory of him.

The story of Cao E

This is yet another story linked to the dragon boat festival.

Cao E, who lived in Shangyu during the East Han dynasty, was only 14 years old when her father drowned in the south of Yangtze River.

She went searching for him along the river every day and 17 days later, on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, she threw herself into the river in despair.

Five days later, her body was discovered clutching her father’s, and people believed the deities, moved by her devotion, had guided their remains back to the surface together.

Following this, a temple was built in honour of Cao E and the dragon boat festival was believed to be held in honour of her.

Beyond these tales of devotion and heroism, ancient beliefs about the fifth day of the fifth lunar month also shaped the festival’s traditions.

Bad luck and river dragons

Long before Qu Yuan’s era, the fifth day of the fifth lunar month — known as the double fifth — was regarded as an ominous date.

Ancient communities believed it was an “evil day” in an “evil month”, a time when people were more susceptible to illness and misfortune.

In ancient China, the dragon was viewed as a benevolent spirit that brings rain.

So, it is believed that the river dragons are divine immortals that could bring about balanced rainfall for good harvest.

Somehow, these beliefs evolved into dragon boat racing which was held to encourage rains and to ward off bad luck as it is believed that water that passed through the oars of dragon boats is auspicious.

The dragon boat

Traditionally, the dragon boat, which originated from Southern China, used to be made out of teak wood and was commonly called the Chinese Dragon Boat.

Now, the boats are usually made of fibreglass as it is lighter, more cost effective and environmentally friendly.

The boat’s main feature is the mythical Chinese dragon head attached to the prow (front) and a dragon tail attached to the stern (rear) while the dragon scales are usually painted on the sides of the boat.

The length of the boat is usually between eight metres and over 18 metres, depending on the number of people in its crew, which could be between 10 and 20 members.

The boat is powered fully by the crew’s coordinated rowing using small single bladed paddles.

There will also be a Chinese style drum with a drummer situated at the bow of the boat where the beat of the drum helps to guide the stroke cadence of the crew.

In modern dragon boat racing, the races are often in seas, lakes or rivers for a length of between 200 metres and 500 metres.

Penang hosted its very first international dragon boat festival in 1979, just two years after Hong Kong, and it was participated by 66 teams from Indonesia, Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia.