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Missions of the Shenzhou-20 crewed spaceship, scheduled to be launched at 5:17 pm, April 24, from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in Northwest China, include: - Completing an in-orbit rotation with the Shenzhou-19 crew, staying at the China Space Station for ...
The air support team has carried out multiple search and rescue drills and is now ready for the return of the Shenzhou-19 crew members who are preparing to conclude their six-month mission aboard China's space station Tiangong in orbit.
China's Tiandu satellite pulls off laser ranging in Earth-moon space under daylight, marking a world first
From Saturday to Sunday, China's Tiandu-1 communication and navigation technology experiment satellite successfully conducted a laser ranging technology test in the Earth-moon space under strong daylight interference conditions, marking a world first in overcoming the time restriction of satellite laser ranging in Earth-Moon space only being performed at night, signifying a new technological advancement in the field of precision measurement in deep space orbits, Global Times learned from the satellite developer China's Deep Space Exploration Lab (DSEL) on Monday.
Due to the vast scale of Earth-moon space and the extremely high speed of satellite motion, conducting laser ranging on satellites in such an environment is akin to aiming at a single hair (sub-millimeter target) from 10,000 meters away while performing precise tracking and signal acquisition, said DSEL in a statement it provided to the Global Times on Sunday.
Satellite laser ranging in Earth-moon space was limited to nighttime conditions without light interference, restricting observation periods and resulting in insufficient frequency of orbital dynamic data collection. The successful execution of this laser ranging test under daylight interference conditions significantly expands the observation window for this technology, providing a practical engineering foundation for its widespread application, DSEL said.
This achievement will strongly support the validation and implementation of major deep space exploration missions, such as the International Lunar Research Station, it added.
As the first satellites ever developed by DSEL, the Tiandu-1 and -2 satellites were sent into space together with the Queqiao-2 relay satellite on March 20, 2024. They entered their target circumlunar orbits on March 29 and separated on April 3, according to the Xinhua News Agency. They have conducted a series of technological experiments for lunar communication and navigation.
Taxpayers also advised to do e-filing before deadline
Digital format: Tax filing is only available online starting this year.
PETALING JAYA: The tax filing season has started and taxpayers are reminded to claim eligible tax reliefs and file before the deadline.
For the first time, tax filing is only available online and the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) will no longer accept manual submissions or in hard copy.
KPMG Malaysia senior adviser on tax policy, Dr Veerinderjeet Singh, said e-filing has been used for many years and is an efficient and effective way of reporting tax liabilities.
He said all individuals earning income from employment and receiving passive income, such as interest and rental income, have to file personal income tax returns ( Form BE).
The tax period for filing is from Jan 1 until Dec 31, 2024, he said.
“Income from overseas will also need to be reported even though the actual income received enjoys a tax exemption,” said Veerinderjeet.
He also said internet and newspaper subscriptions, as well as purchase of gadgets are claimable under the lifestyle relief of up to RM2,500.
“Common mistakes are trying to claim all reliefs without having the necessary evidence to justify such claims,” added Veerinderjeet.
Tax expert Desmond Anil said some commonly missed tax reliefs are payment for parents’ health expenses, as taxpayers can claim tax relief up to RM8,000.
Another tax relief is for EPF and life insurance, which are claimable up to RM7,000, he said.
Desmond, who is Hernancres Tax Services Sdn Bhd managing director, also highlighted the new tax relief for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment, which is up to RM2,500.
However, he cautions not to mistakenly claim reliefs that the taxpayer is not eligible for.
He cited the example of incorrect dependent reliefs.
Taxpayers must retain receipts and supporting documents for seven years in case of an audit, he said.
Desmond also said all sources of income, including rental income, freelance earnings or commissions, should be declared.
Tax filing needs to be completed by April 30 for salaried individuals and June 30 for business owners/self-employed, as late submissions would face penalties.
“Filing taxes early can help individuals identify errors, avoid last-minute rushes, and plan payments efficiently.
“Seeking professional tax advice is recommended for those with complex tax structures and if they are unsure about how to complete their tax filing,” he said.
TraTax Sdn Bhd executive director Thenesh Kannaa said those who receive income from gig work or passive income via properties need to file their taxes.
He reminded those with income from foreign countries to report their income even though it is exempted.
He said that LHDN can be made aware of bank balances of foreign bank accounts following a global initiative known as Common Reporting Standards.
Expatriates working in Malaysia are also taxed, he added.
He said they need to pay significantly higher tax due to ineligibility for personal relief and progressive tax rate.
Starting March 1, individual and non-individual taxpayers can submit their tax return form for the Year of Assessment 2024 through e-filing.
Taxpayers are advised to use the e-filing service through the MyTax portal at https://mytax.hasil.gov.my or the HASiL official portal at https://www.hasil.gov.my.
For first-time users of e-filing, taxpayers must first register at the MyTax portal via e-Daftar.
Afterwards, they must register for a digital certificate and one-time PIN for e-filing.
Once the preliminary registration is done, taxpayers can proceed to login to MyTax, click on EzHasil Services, and then e-filing and subsequently e-BE Year of Assessment 2024.
The taxpayer can then provide the necessary details such as personal particulars, income and tax reliefs
In accord: Xi and Anwar after witnessing a fruitful Exchange of Agreement session between the two countries at Seri Perdana on April 16. — AP
WHEN Chinese President Xi Jinping returned to Malaysia recently for a state visit after more than a decade, it must have been a nostalgic moment for the leader, as much has changed for him, Malaysia, and China in the past 12 years.
Nostalgia often invokes positive emotions, offering a sense of continuity, meaning, and connection. I believe Xi felt this with Malaysia during his recent visit, and it was evident in his opening remarks at a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“This marks my return to Malaysia after 12 years, during which the nation has achieved remarkable progress in its development. Your Madani Government is steadily becoming a promising reality, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations,” Xi said.
Reflecting on the rich tapestry of historical ties between the two nations, Xi recalled the legendary voyages of Admiral Zheng He to Melaka in the 15th century, and the establishment of modern diplomatic relations over five decades ago in defiance of Cold War tensions at the time.
“Today, our two countries are working in unity to jointly build a community with a shared future. China-Malaysia relations are entering a new golden era,” he said, highlighting the deepening friendship between the two countries.
Building networks
Xi’s visit was relatively subdued this time, reflecting the current complexities China is facing, particularly in light of US tariffs and sanctions.
However, the underlying theme of resilience and strategic diplomacy was apparent.
Invited by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, Xi’s presence from April 15 to 17 highlighted China’s determination to maintain and strengthen international relationships despite mounting external pressures.
The US measures aim to limit China’s technological advancements and limit its influence in key economic sectors. In response, China has chosen to demonstrate its resilience by strengthening ties with strategic partners like Malaysia. The timing of the visit, just days after the US announced new tariffs, seems very much a calculated move to showcase China’s ability to navigate these economic challenges.
By reinforcing partnerships in South-East Asia, China is diversifying its economic alliances and sending a message of defiance in the face of American attempts to isolate it on the global stage.
Xi’s visit highlighted China’s strategy of building robust trade networks outside Western influence, reducing vulnerability to unilateral economic pressures.
China’s resilience is also evident in its pursuit of long-term goals. Despite immediate economic challenges, China continues to invest heavily in initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative, aiming to create a vast network of trade routes and partnerships across Asia, Africa, and Europe.
For China, these efforts are not just about economic survival but also about asserting sovereignty and strategic autonomy, resisting external attempts to dictate its policies.
‘Fierce independence’
Back home, Malaysia is also demonstrating resilience and strategic foresight by embracing this opportunity to solidify ties with China.
Anwar, long an advocate of Malaysia’s non-aligned policy, reiterated the country’s commitment to maintaining a balanced approach in international relations.
In his official visit to Australia to meet Prime Minister Anthony Albanese last year, Anwar emphasised Malaysia’s “fierce independence” and the country’s intention to choose its own friends, countering any China-phobic sentiment.
This stance reiterates Malaysia’s policy of not taking sides in global power struggles – a wise move for a nation that relies heavily on trade with both China and the United States.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who celebrated the day of the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations in Beijing with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and other leaders last year, also noted in recent commentary that “Malaysia believes the world cannot be built on harmful competition”.
“Instead, we must forge cooperation based on mutual trust, mutual respect, and mutual unity.
“That is Malaysia’s principle – negotiating, not retaliating; opening doors, not building walls that isolate and diminish global cooperation,” he said, highlighting Malaysia’s firm stance in rejecting retaliation and emphasising mutual trust and respect in international relations.
Initiatives adopted
Xi’s visit resulted in significant outcomes, including the signing of 31 memoranda of understanding covering a wide range of sectors, from infrastructure to digital transformation. One of the highlights included expanding the “Two Countries, Twin Parks” initiative, set to drive high- impact investments and bolster Malaysia’s position in the Industrial Revolution 4.0 era.
Part of the initiatives include developing the Malaysia-China Halal Food Industrial Park on 60ha of land in Perak, leveraging Malaysia’s prestigious international halal certification system and China’s food processing experience and supply chain management. With this, Malaysia’s halal industry will certainly shine further globally.
Also, the establishment of educational institutions like Xiamen University Malaysia and the planned expansion of Universiti Malaya in Shandong, China, are testaments to the deepening educational and cultural ties between the two nations.
These initiatives, along with cooperation in artificial intelligence and the digital economy, mark a step forward in human capital development, crucial for Malaysia’s future economic competitiveness.
Students from the National Academy of Arts, Culture and Heritage welcoming the Chinese President. — Bernama
Balancing ties
As Malaysia continues in the role of Asean Chair this year, it’s crucial to strengthen the Asean Plus Three (APT) framework to make the region more resilient against external threats, like recent global tariffs and sanctions.
APT refers to the cooperative framework between the 10 Asean member countries and China, Japan and South Korea. It started in December 1997 and has evolved into a key mechanism for promoting East Asian cooperation, with Asean serving as the driving force.
Improving APT cooperation can boost economic ties, strengthen financial markets, and drive technological progress across the region. By building on initiatives like the Chiang Mai Initiative Multilateralisation – a key financial cooperation initiative within the APT – and working together on digital and climate issues, the APT can provide a strong safety net and support sustainable growth.
For Malaysia, leading this effort brings great advantages. Increased trade and investment within the APT can boost Malaysia’s economy and technological growth, creating jobs and supporting development.
As the Asean Chair, Malaysia has a unique chance to influence the regional agenda, increasing its influence while promoting cultural and personal connections. By leading this initiative, Malaysia can strengthen its economic and political position, helping the region thrive despite global challenges.
As Malaysia continues to balance its ties with both China and the US, it proves the strength of diplomacy and the pursuit of shared prosperity in a world often divided by competition and conflict. Xi’s visit not only strengthened the existing partnership but also paved the way for future collaborations that will benefit Malaysia and China, and the wider region.- Sunday Star By ALLISON LAI
Malaysia sees surge in Chinese students
Photo: ART CHEN/The Star
PETALING JAYA: The number of students from China applying to study in Malaysian universities grew by 25% last year, driven by a shift in global student mobility. Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) said international students, including from China, are shifting away from the world’s ‘Big Four’ study destinations: the UK, US, Australia and Canada.
“More students are exploring dynamic and diverse destinations across Asia. Malaysia is one of the top destinations,” it told The Star.
EMGS, which is under the purview of the Higher Education Ministry, said its data shows that students from China continued to top the list of study applications to Malaysia, at 33,216 in 2024, compared to 26,627 applications in 2023.
Other top applications came from Bangladesh (6,917), Indonesia (5,556), India (2,591) and Pakistan (2,417).
From January to March this, application by students from China continued to grow by 2%, rising to 5,876 from 5,780 in the same period last year.
EMGS said Malaysia’s multilingual environment, political stability, safety, as well as rich cultural experiences, are motivating factors for China students to pursue their studies in the country.
“Malaysia's geographical proximity to China also makes it easier and more affordable for students to travel back home during holidays and maintain close ties with their families.”
China Daily recently reported that more Chinese families are reconsidering higher education plans in the US due to worsening bilateral relations and growing concerns over safety abroad.
Parents, the report said, are considering countries that have a good relationship with China as political stability ensures the safety of their children abroad.
The report also indicated that data from the 2024 Open Doors Report on Inter¬national Educational Exchange showed that China was surpassed by India as the largest source of international students in the United States for the 2023-2024 academic year.
There were 277,398 students from the Chinese mainland enrolled in US higher education institutions during that period, a figure that has been dropping annually since peaking at 372,532 in the 2019-2020 academic year.
EMGS said Malaysia, under the Education Blueprint 2015-2025, is targeting 250,000 international students by 2025 with 39% contributed by China.
“The consistent rise in international student applications, along with a student-friendly visa system, reflects Malaysia’s commitment to transforming into a global classroom and strengthening its global influence and soft power,” said EMGS.
It added that Malaysia offers internationally recognized degrees, often in partnership with prestigious universities from the UK, Australia, and the US, allowing students to earn a reputable degree at a fraction of the cost.
“The qualification from Malaysia is also widely-recognised and highly regarded in China so students are able to find jobs easily after graduation.”
Scam clampdown: A file photo showing a general view of Shwe Kokko city, a casino, entertainment and tourism complex, from Thailand’s side of the border. — Reuters
Cyber crime syndicates that run multi-billion-dollar scam operations across South-East Asia are still expanding despite recent law enforcement crackdowns, building links from Ireland to Mexico and reaching a potentially irreversible global spillover, the United Nations warned.
The transnational criminal networks are infiltrating and scaling up in other parts of the world, particularly in the Pacific region, Africa, South America and South Asia, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime said in a report published on Monday.
They use trafficked workers from dozens of countries and are largely based in Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos.
The growth has been enabled by the rise of new, illicit online marketplaces, with such cryptocurrency-integrated platforms being used to launder money and connect illegal actors around the world, the agency said.
It noted that there are now “hundreds of large-scale scam operations conservatively generating tens of billions of dollars” in annual profits.
“The dispersal of these sophisticated criminal networks within areas of weakest governance has attracted new players, fuelled corruption, and enabled the industry to continue to scale,” the report said.
The spillover effect has seen criminal groups now “free to pick, choose, and move jurisdictions, operations, and value as needed, with the resulting situation rapidly outpacing the capacity of governments to contain it”.
Even as South-East Asian governments have stepped up crackdowns in recent months on scam compounds along shared land borders, the industrial-scale operations have simply adapted by moving to more remote locations within or beyond the region, or pivoting to online platforms.
“Another adaptation that has been noted across the region is the shift from land-based Internet connection to Starlink,” the report stated, referring to Elon Musk’s satellite internet provider.
That’s sometimes the result of operators moving to locations without online access or due to governments shutting down illegal cross-border connections, it added.
The UN agency estimated that countries in East and South-East Asia lost up to US$37bil to cyber fraud in 2023.
It said US authorities reported billions of dollars of losses the same year from crypto-related scams and “pig butchering” schemes, in which fraudsters gain the confidence of victims.
Crime syndicates in South-East Asia are also actively enhancing collaboration with other major criminal networks around the world, including South American drug cartels, the Italian mafia, and the Irish mob, according to the UN.
It cited the example of a network with Chinese links that helped Mexican drug cartels launder money and then resell those foreign currencies to overseas buyers within underground banking markets.
To scale the operations, the criminals also need hundreds of thousands of trafficked victims and complicit individuals to work in the scam compounds.
People from as many as 56 origin countries have been identified as victims in the UN report, with the majority constituting Asian and African nations. — Bloomberg
... REPORTS. Femicides in 2023 · Submit to the 'My Voice matters in the Fight against Organized Crime' Zine · UNODC World Drug Report 2024. publications. Multimedia.
