Latest news with #Khairi
The Sun
03-06-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Skipping meals could spell trouble for your health
PETALING JAYA: That skipped breakfast or late-night snack might seem harmless but over time such habits can quietly raise the risk of developing gallstones, medical experts warn. Universiti Malaysia Terengganu food biochemistry and biophysics lecturer Assoc Prof Dr Mohamad Khairi Zainol referred to a study published in Frontiers in Nutrition, which found that individuals who frequently skip breakfast face a 20% to 30% higher risk of gallstone formation. 'One study revealed that 4.5% of participants had cholesterol-saturated bile after fasting for nine hours, a figure that soared to 54.5% after 16 hours,' he said. He also warned against regular late-night snacking on high-fat foods as bile secretion naturally slows in line with the body's circadian rhythm. 'When fat-rich foods are consumed during this period bile doesn't flow effectively, resulting in higher concentration and an increased risk of crystallisation,' he explained. Irregular meal timings disrupt the gallbladder's normal contractions, leading to bile stasis. Such eating patterns are also linked to higher calorie intake, poor dietary quality and greater metabolic stress. A study featured in EatingWell found that eating after 8pm could double the risk of digestive discomfort, while meals between 5pm and 7pm were better aligned with the body's natural rhythm and supported healthier bile flow. Khairi noted that bile plays a vital role in breaking down fats and absorbing fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E and K. 'Disrupted eating patterns impair these functions and can negatively affect overall digestive health,' he said. To support healthy bile flow and gallbladder function, he recommended a diet rich in fibre, healthy fats, bitter herbs and hydrating foods. 'Leafy greens, whole grains, olive oil, avocados and probiotic-rich foods are excellent options,' he added. 'At the same time, refined carbohydrates, fried foods and excessive alcohol should be avoided.' Cengild GI Medical Centre senior consultant gastroenterologist and hepatologist Datuk Dr Tan Huck Joo explained that gallstones form when there is a chemical imbalance in bile, most often due to excessive cholesterol. 'When the liver produces more cholesterol than bile can dissolve, soft cholesterol stones may develop,' he said. 'In other cases, excess bilirubin results in pigment stones, which are harder and black in colour.' Poor gallbladder emptying – often caused by skipping meals – leads to bile stagnation, creating ideal conditions for stone formation. While some people experience symptoms such as upper abdominal pain, bloating or back pain, many remain symptom-free. 'These silent gallstones often go undetected and may not require treatment. 'However, if complications such as inflammation, infection or a blocked bile duct arise, symptoms such as fever or jaundice can occur,' he said. In more serious cases, conditions such as empyema (pus in the gallbladder), acute pancreatitis or severe infection may develop. 'After meals, the gallbladder contracts to release bile into the small intestine. Skipping meals reduces this contraction, leading to bile stasis,' he said. He also highlighted that women are particularly susceptible due to higher oestrogen levels, which increase cholesterol in bile and reduce gallbladder motility. 'Those over 40 are also more at risk as metabolic processes slow with age, affecting bile composition and gallbladder function.' Obesity is another significant risk factor as an overweight individual's liver produces more cholesterol than bile can process. 'Rapid weight loss contributes too, it causes the liver to release more cholesterol, upsetting the bile's delicate balance,' he said. Beyond gallstones, skipping meals can destabilise blood sugar levels, increase insulin resistance and elevate the risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes. Irregular eating habits may also lead to overeating, digestive problems, anxiety, poor memory and hormonal imbalances. 'For young women, these behaviours can even lead to irregular or missed periods.' He added that although gallbladder cancer is rare, long-term inflammation caused by untreated gallstones could increase the risk over time.
New Straits Times
11-05-2025
- New Straits Times
Cosmetics entrepreneurs, influencers on Terengganu police radar
KOTA BARU: Terengganu police believe cosmetics influencers and product founders in the state are involved in drug trafficking and money laundering. State police chief Datuk Mohd Khairi Khairuddin said police were looking into this possibility after the recent arrest of a cosmetics brand founder, who was found in possession of 1kg of syabu. Police also seized about RM1 million worth of assets after the suspect was arrested on April 28. "Although we have not received any public complaints regarding such activities, our intelligence has identified several individuals suspected of using their businesses as fronts for drug trafficking and money laundering. "The Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department is conducting further investigations to determine their level of involvement," he told the New Straits Times. Khairi acknowledged that scrutiny of cosmetics founders and influencers had increased after Kelantan police said it was investigating the link between these entrepreneurs and crime. "The state police have placed several individuals under surveillance. We suspect that some began as small-scale entrepreneurs before turning to the drug trade as a means to boost their capital. "They may have taken the opportunity to supplement their income through drug distribution while maintaining a legitimate front by selling beauty products," he said. He added that initial findings suggest narcotics were sourced from other states or neighbouring countries before they were distributed locally and abroad. "Smuggling methods include overland, maritime and air routes," he said. "We are monitoring them closely and will take firm action if there is concrete evidence of criminal involvement," he said. On May 7, Kelantan police said they had information about influencers and cosmetics founders involved in the drug trade. Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat, however, said he could not divulge details as investigations were ongoing.
New Straits Times
01-05-2025
- New Straits Times
Luxury cars, cash, and jewellery seized as businessman busted for drugs
KUALA TERENGGANU: The police seized three cars, cash, and various pieces of jewellery worth RM981,500, believed to be proceeds from drug trafficking activities, following the arrest of a cosmetic shop owner here recently. Bernama reported that Terengganu police chief Datuk Mohd Khairi Khairuddin said the 35-year-old suspect was arrested during a raid at an unoccupied premises in Kampung Paya Keladi here at 8.40pm last Monday. Khairi said the police also seized 1.02 kilogrammes of syabu worth RM32,000 during the raid. "Assets seized included a Toyota Alphard, a Mini Cooper Countryman, a Range Rover, RM7,700 in cash, and several pieces of jewellery such as gold bracelets, necklaces, and anklets. "A body search on the suspect found a green plastic bag containing 1.02 kilogrammes of syabu, believed to be intended for distribution to around 6,000 addicts in the Kuala Terengganu district," Khairi was quoted as saying. He added that investigations showed the suspect had no prior criminal record. However, a urine test showed the suspect tested positive for Nimetazepam. Khairi said the suspect has been remanded for seven days from Tuesday until this Monday to assist in investigations under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 for drug trafficking. He added that investigations are ongoing to track down other members of the syndicate who are still at large.
Borneo Post
30-04-2025
- Borneo Post
Tugboat detained near Tanjung Marou in Sarawak for breaching Shipping Ordinance
Handout photo shows the tugboat detained in Sarawak waters. – MMEA photo KUCHING (April 30): A tugboat operating in Sarawak waters was detained by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) on Monday night for breaching licensing conditions under the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952. According to Sarawak Maritime director Rear Admiral (M) Mohd Khairi Abd Aziz, the vessel was intercepted approximately 10 nautical miles north of Tanjung Marou during patrols under Ops Tiris 3.0 and Ops Permai 01/2019 around 10.20pm. 'Checks revealed that the vessel, manned by two local male crew members aged between 41 and 51, failed to display a valid Domestic Shipping Licence (DSL),' he said in a statement. Further investigation found that the tugboat had not reported a change in skipper and was operating with an insufficient number of crew members. The vessel and its crew members were escorted to the Tun Abang Salahuddin Maritime Complex (Komtas) jetty and handed over to investigating officers for further action. Khairi urged the maritime community to comply with all regulations and prioritise safety at sea to prevent unwanted incidents. For emergencies or to report any suspicious maritime activities, the public may contact the MMEA Sarawak Operations Centre at 082-432544 or via the 24-hour hotline 999.
Borneo Post
30-04-2025
- Borneo Post
Tugboat detained near Tanjung Marou for breaching Shipping Ordinance
Handout photo shows the tugboat detained off Sarawak waters. – MMEA photo KUCHING (April 30): A tugboat operating in Sarawak waters was detained by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) on Monday night for breaching licensing conditions under the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952. According to Sarawak Maritime director Rear Admiral (M) Mohd Khairi Abd Aziz, the vessel was intercepted approximately 10 nautical miles north of Tanjung Marou during patrols under Ops Tiris 3.0 and Ops Permai 01/2019 around 10.20pm. 'Checks revealed that the vessel, manned by two local male crew members aged between 41 and 51, failed to display a valid Domestic Shipping Licence (DSL),' he said in a statement. Further investigation found that the tugboat had not reported a change in skipper and was operating with an insufficient number of crew members. The vessel and its crew members were escorted to the Tun Abang Salahuddin Maritime Complex (Komtas) jetty and handed over to investigating officers for further action. Khairi urged the maritime community to comply with all regulations and prioritise safety at sea to prevent unwanted incidents. For emergencies or to report any suspicious maritime activities, the public may contact the MMEA Sarawak Operations Centre at 082-432544 or via the 24-hour hotline 999.
