Paramount CEO happy with Q1 sales momentum

PETALING JAYA: Paramount Corporation Bhd posted a profit before tax (PBT) of RM22.6 million (Q1’24: RM17 million) for the first quarter of 2025 (Q1’25) supported by revenue of RM217.8 million (Q1’24: RM172.6 million). Profit attributable to shareholders rose by 87% to RM14.4 million (Q1’24: RM7.7 million). The property segment remains the group’s primary revenue driver,… Continue reading Paramount CEO happy with Q1 sales momentum
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ASEAN

KUALA LUMPUR: ASEAN member states must enhance their response to accidental releases of hazardous chemicals, in line with the ASEAN Political-Security Community Blueprint 2025, which prioritises efforts to curb and prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction. Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni said Malaysia, as a responsible ASEAN member, remains committed to… Continue reading ASEAN
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Surabaya-bound Indonesian caught at KLIA 2 with four wild birds in cargo

PUTRAJAYA: The Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) detained an Indonesian man on suspicion of smuggling out a fully protected wildlife species at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2 (KLIA 2) yesterday. The AKPS said the 49-year-old man was detained in an operation at 9.10 pm by KLIA AKPS in collaboration with Aviation Security… Continue reading Surabaya-bound Indonesian caught at KLIA 2 with four wild birds in cargo
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Malaysia eyes Central Asia expansion via Uzbekistan as gateway

TASHKENT: Malaysia is poised to expand its market presence in Central Asia by leveraging Uzbekistan as a strategic gateway, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. Speaking at the conclusion of his four-day working visit, Fadillah emphasised the potential for deeper bilateral ties in key sectors such as energy, palm oil, and Islamic… Continue reading Malaysia eyes Central Asia expansion via Uzbekistan as gateway
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PAAB spearheads RM2.4 billion water infrastructure upgrade, emphasises zero-accident culture

KUALA LUMPUR: Pengurusan Aset Air Berhad (PAAB) is actively implementing nationwide upgrades to water infrastructure with an allocation of nearly RM2.4 billion to ensure the long-term sustainability and security of the country’s water supply. PAAB chief executive officer Ir. Zulkiflee Omar stressed that contractors and consultants must strictly comply with safety guidelines to prevent accidents… Continue reading PAAB spearheads RM2.4 billion water infrastructure upgrade, emphasises zero-accident culture
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Mehidy gives Bangladesh selection ‘headache’ for Sri Lanka Test

BANGLADESH are boosted by the return of star all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz for the second Test against Sri Lanka, but it also provides a selection dilemma for the team management. The 26-year-old, who missed the first Test due to illness, is ranked number two among Test all-rounders. Off-spinner Nayeem Hasan, who replaced him in the… Continue reading Mehidy gives Bangladesh selection ‘headache’ for Sri Lanka Test
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Electricity tariff restructuring offers greater cost transparency – FMM

KUALA LUMPUR: The Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) has welcomed the electricity tariff restructuring under the Regulatory Period 4 (RP4), describing it as a rebasing exercise that offers greater cost transparency and encourages demand-side management. In a statement today, FMM said the new structure reflects a 19 per cent overall reduction in tariff rates, taking… Continue reading Electricity tariff restructuring offers greater cost transparency – FMM
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Alam Haikal breaks through autism barrier to ace STPM

MACHANG: Born with autism, but blessed with a heart full of fire and determination, Alam Haikal Jansari Anuar is not one to be defined by labels. The 20-year-old student from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Machang has done what many thought impossible. He not only aced his Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) examination but also emerged… Continue reading Alam Haikal breaks through autism barrier to ace STPM
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Petronas urged to consider re-investing in Uzbekistan – Fadillah

TASHKENT: Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) has been urged to consider re-investing in Uzbekistan to boost the republic’s oil and gas sector. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the Uzbekistan government had submitted an official request to Malaysia for Petronas to reconsider investing in the republic. “They (Uzbekistan) expressed their desire for Petronas to… Continue reading Petronas urged to consider re-investing in Uzbekistan – Fadillah
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PMO criticizes misleading infographic on IGP, demands better fact-checking

KUALA LUMPUR: The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has condemned a misleading infographic published by a local media outlet involving the newly appointed Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail. The PMO emphasized the critical need for responsible journalism and stricter fact-checking standards to prevent misinformation. Senior Press Secretary to the Prime Minister, Tunku… Continue reading PMO criticizes misleading infographic on IGP, demands better fact-checking
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Israel says ‘refrained’ from further strikes on Iran after Trump call

JERUSALEM: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said the country “refrained” from further strikes on Iran on Tuesday after he spoke with US President Donald Trump in a call. Israel accused Iran of violating a fragile ceasefire agreement on Tuesday morning by firing two missiles, with Defence Minister Israel Katz immediately promising “to respond forcefully”.… Continue reading Israel says ‘refrained’ from further strikes on Iran after Trump call
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Three houses, nine vehicles damaged during early morning fire in Tasek Gelugor

TASEK GELUGOR: Three terraced houses, five cars, and four motorcycles were destroyed in an early morning fire in Taman Tasek Gelugor Utama here today. Penang Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Assistant Director of Firefighting and Rescue Operations Division, John Sagun Francis, said the fire department received an emergency call reporting about the blaze at 4:52… Continue reading Three houses, nine vehicles damaged during early morning fire in Tasek Gelugor
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Trump again questions NATO defense pledge on way to summit

US President Donald Trump said Tuesday there were “numerous definitions” of NATO’s collective defense clause, in comments likely to cause fresh alarm to allies as he heads to the alliance’s summit in The Hague. The summit will pledge to boost defense spending in a bid to keep Trump happy, after his return to power in… Continue reading Trump again questions NATO defense pledge on way to summit
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PM Anwar in top health after annual check-up – PMO

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim underwent his annual medical check-up on Saturday at Sultan Idris Shah Hospital in Serdang and has been confirmed to be in excellent health, fully capable of continuing his official duties as usual. Senior Press Secretary to the Prime Minister Tunku Nashrul Tunku Abaidah said in the Prime… Continue reading PM Anwar in top health after annual check-up – PMO
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France ordered to compensate family of jogger killed by toxic algae

RENNES: A French court on Tuesday ordered the state to compensate the family of a 50-year-old man who died in 2016 during a run after inhaling poisonous gas emitted by rotting green algae piled along the country’s western coast. The Nantes appeals court found France liable for the death of Jean-Rene Auffray, citing its “negligence”… Continue reading France ordered to compensate family of jogger killed by toxic algae
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Israel opposition, hostage families call for end to Gaza war

JERUSALEM: Israel’s opposition leader and the families of Israeli hostages held in Gaza called Tuesday for an end to the war in the Palestinian territory after a ceasefire was announced with Iran. US President Donald Trump said a truce was in effect between Israel and Iran after 12 days of war that saw Israel and… Continue reading Israel opposition, hostage families call for end to Gaza war
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Messi’s Miami and PSG progress to set up Club World Cup reunion

INTER Miami’s Lionel Messi faces a tantalising reunion with former club Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup last 16 after both sides on Monday progressed to the knockout phase. Miami drew 2-2 with Palmeiras to go through second in Group A, after the Brazilian side fought back from two goals down to seal top… Continue reading Messi’s Miami and PSG progress to set up Club World Cup reunion
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Negeri Sembilan MB inks strategic land agreements with SD Guthrie to kickstart Port Dickson Free Zone

NEGERI SEMBILAN: The Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Incorporated, known as Menteri Besar Negeri Sembilan (Pemerbadanan) (Mbins), today signed two significant agreements with SD Guthrie Bhd, marking a key milestone for the development of the Port Dickson Free Zone (PDFZ), a cornerstone project within the Malaysia Vision Valley 2.0 (MVV 2.0). The first agreement involves the… Continue reading Negeri Sembilan MB inks strategic land agreements with SD Guthrie to kickstart Port Dickson Free Zone
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Online Safety Act 2024 enforcement pending MCMC guidelines

KUALA LUMPUR: The Online Safety Act 2024 will come into effect only after the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) completes all 10 regulatory guidelines, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil announced today. Speaking at the Tun Abdul Razak Broadcasting and Information Institute (IPPTAR) open day, Fahmi explained that five guidelines are ready, while the remaining… Continue reading Online Safety Act 2024 enforcement pending MCMC guidelines
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PM Anwar urges MoHE, UMS not to disrupt students’ studies over caricature

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has directed the Higher Education Ministry (MoHE) and Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) to ensure students involved in a recent anti-corruption protest face no academic repercussions. The rally, which included burning a caricature resembling Anwar, was held as part of the Gempur Rasuah Sabah 2.0 event last Saturday.… Continue reading PM Anwar urges MoHE, UMS not to disrupt students’ studies over caricature
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Elderly woman loses RM690k to credit card phone scam in Penang

GEORGE TOWN: A 65-year-old retiree from Bayan Lepas lost RM696,513.50 after being deceived by a phone scam involving a fake Platinum Master credit card and impersonated police officers. Penang police chief Datuk Hamzah Ahmad confirmed the victim lodged a report at the Timur Laut district police headquarters after realising she had been tricked. The scam… Continue reading Elderly woman loses RM690k to credit card phone scam in Penang
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Supratechnic appointed official dealer for Honda Marine in Johor, Malacca and Pahang

Supratechnic brand was established in 1968 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Singapore-based Supratechnic Pte Ltd, which USP Group indirectly owns. Supratechnic (M) Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of Singapore mainboard-listed USP Group Ltd, has been appointed as the official dealer for Honda Marine in Johor, Malacca and Pahang, following a strategic partnership… Continue reading Supratechnic appointed official dealer for Honda Marine in Johor, Malacca and Pahang
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Pope ‘deeply saddened’ by Damascus church attack

VATICAN CITY: Pope Leo said on Tuesday he was deeply saddened by a suicide attack on a Greek Orthodox church in Syria at the weekend. A little-known Sunni Muslim extremist group has claimed responsibility the attack on Sunday, which killed 25 and wounded more than 60 others. The authorities had initially blamed the Islamic State… Continue reading Pope ‘deeply saddened’ by Damascus church attack
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Merz says NATO spending boost to counter Russia – not please Trump

BERLIN: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz insisted a pledge by NATO allies to boost defence spending at a “historic” summit starting on Tuesday would not just aim to please US President Donald Trump. “We are not doing this, as some claim, to do the United States and its president a favour,“ he told the German parliament… Continue reading Merz says NATO spending boost to counter Russia – not please Trump
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US Fed chair to signal no rush for rate cuts despite Trump pressure

WASHINGTON: US Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell will tell Congress Tuesday that the central bank can afford to wait for the impact of tariffs before deciding on further interest rate cuts — despite President Donald Trump’s calls to do so. The Fed has a duty to prevent a one-time spike in prices from becoming an… Continue reading US Fed chair to signal no rush for rate cuts despite Trump pressure
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Duo to be charged for injuring cop at Penang police HQ

GEORGE TOWN: The two men who injured a policeman during an incident at the Penang Police Headquarters on Sunday (June 22) will be charged in court here tomorrow. Timur Laut District police chief ACP Abdul Rozak Muhammad said they have completed the investigation papers and received instructions to charge the two men, aged 19 and… Continue reading Duo to be charged for injuring cop at Penang police HQ
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EU lawmakers vote to bar carry-on luggage fees on planes

BRUSSELS: European lawmakers pushed on Tuesday to ban airlines from charging passengers for small carry-on luggage in a move strongly opposed by the aviation sector. The European Parliament’s transport committee adopted a proposal that would allow travellers to bring a personal item into the cabin, such as a handbag or backpack, and a hand luggage… Continue reading EU lawmakers vote to bar carry-on luggage fees on planes
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JPJ seizes 101 luxury vehicles in Ops Luxury crackdown

KUALA LUMPUR: The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has impounded 101 high-end vehicles, including a Porsche associated with a local celebrity, during its nationwide Ops Luxury operation from June 1 to today. JPJ director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli revealed that the seized vehicles included luxury brands such as Ferrari, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, BMW 530e, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota Alphards,… Continue reading JPJ seizes 101 luxury vehicles in Ops Luxury crackdown
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Shadowy extremist group claims Damascus church attack

BEIRUT: A little-known Sunni Muslim extremist group on Tuesday claimed responsibility for a suicide attack on a Damascus church over the weekend that authorities have blamed on the Islamic State group. Sunday’s attack killed 25 and wounded dozens of others, striking terror into Syria’s Christian community and other minorities. A statement from Saraya Ansar al-Sunna… Continue reading Shadowy extremist group claims Damascus church attack
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EU approves MotoGP takeover by F1 owner Liberty Media

THE acquisition of MotoGP by Liberty Media, the American group that owns Formula One, received the green light from The European Commission on Monday. Liberty and the Commission both released statements saying the deal had received “unconditional approval”. “The deal is now expected to close no later than July 3, 2025, opening the door to… Continue reading EU approves MotoGP takeover by F1 owner Liberty Media
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Germany’s Merz says ‘moment has come’ for Gaza ceasefire

BERLIN: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Tuesday said that “the moment has come” for a ceasefire in Gaza between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Speaking to parliament, Merz reiterated Germany’s support for Israel, which he said “has a right to defend its existence and the safety of its citizens”. But he added that… Continue reading Germany’s Merz says ‘moment has come’ for Gaza ceasefire
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Kota MADANI name retained for future urban development in Precinct 19

PUTRAJAYA: The name Kota MADANI, chosen for the government quarters development in Precinct 19, will continue to represent modern urban planning, aligning with the Malaysia MADANI vision. Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), clarified that the name is not temporary but a lasting concept tied to the CHASE… Continue reading Kota MADANI name retained for future urban development in Precinct 19
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‘Throwing the book away’ with no preparation for next season: Bayern’s Kompany

BAYERN Munich coach Vincent Kompany said his team will go into the new Bundesliga season with “almost no preparation” because of their participation at the Club World Cup, but also highlighted some positives of being at the tournament. FIFA’ new expanded competition in the United States this summer, finishing on July 13, means participating clubs… Continue reading ‘Throwing the book away’ with no preparation for next season: Bayern’s Kompany
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Kelantan’s top special needs STPM candidate scores perfect 4.00

KOTA BHARU: While her peers studied with full vision, Tengku Norhanis Tengku Othman relied on just one eye, defying all odds to earn the title of Kelantan’s top special needs candidate in the 2024 STPM with a perfect CGPA of 4.00. The gentle smile of the 19-year-old belies an extraordinary story of resilience. At age… Continue reading Kelantan’s top special needs STPM candidate scores perfect 4.00
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Desire to uplift family drives Orang Asli student to STPM excellence

KUALA LUMPUR: The desire to improve her family’s social standing became the driving force for Orang Asli student Roziana Tan Beng Hai to emerge as one of the top scorers in the Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) examination. Roziana, a student of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Tanjung Gemok, Kuala Rompin, Pahang, said it was sheer hard… Continue reading Desire to uplift family drives Orang Asli student to STPM excellence
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Sultan Mizan, Sultanah Zahirah grace seminar on royal correspondence of Baginda Omar

KUALA NERUS: Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin and Sultanah Nur Zahirah of Terengganu today graced the Proclamation Ceremony and Asia-Pacific Heritage Seminar on the Royal Correspondence of Baginda Omar at Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT). Also in attendance were the Yang Dipertuan Muda of Terengganu, Tengku Muhammad Ismail, Tengku Sri Setia Mahkota Raja Tengku Datuk Seri Muhammad… Continue reading Sultan Mizan, Sultanah Zahirah grace seminar on royal correspondence of Baginda Omar
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Oil slides, stocks jump amid Iran-Israel ceasefire uncertainty

LONDON: Oil prices sank and stock markets jumped Tuesday, even as uncertainty reined over a Israel-Iran ceasefire. In volatile trading, crude futures slumped more than 5% after US President Donald Trump’s declaration of a ceasefire. The oil market went on to reduce its losses, however, as Israel and Iran accused each other of breaking the… Continue reading Oil slides, stocks jump amid Iran-Israel ceasefire uncertainty
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Couple accused of abusing disabled daughter remanded for 7 days

MELAKA: A couple accused of abusing their 9-year-old disabled daughter, resulting in her death, has been remanded for seven days. The Ayer Keroh Magistrate’s Court issued the order against the 36-year-old biological mother and 38-year-old stepfather to facilitate investigations under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder. The remand period extends until Monday (June… Continue reading Couple accused of abusing disabled daughter remanded for 7 days
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French president says Israel-Iran conflict ‘volatile’ despite truce plan

OSLO: French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday cautioned that the situation surrounding the Israel-Iran conflict remained “unstable” despite US President Donald Trump’s ceasefire declaration. “The situation clearly remains volatile and unstable. I think it’s a very good thing that President Trump is calling for a ceasefire,“ Macron told reporters during a visit to Norway. Noting… Continue reading French president says Israel-Iran conflict ‘volatile’ despite truce plan
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Three Brits face one year in prison over Bali drug charges

DENPASAR: Indonesian prosecutors said Tuesday they were seeking one-year prison sentences for three British nationals accused of drug offences on the resort island of Bali, a major reprieve in a country with some of the world’s toughest drug laws. Jonathan Christopher Collyer, 38, and Lisa Ellen Stocker, 39, were arrested on February 1 after being… Continue reading Three Brits face one year in prison over Bali drug charges
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FAMA-Luxamana collaboration boosts agro-food logistics capacity

KUALA LUMPUR: The Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) has strengthened the national agro-food logistics system through a strategic collaboration with Luxamana Sdn Bhd, a leading logistics company. The collaboration was formalised today with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU), aimed at boosting delivery capacity for FAMA’s online platforms, Agrobazaar Online and AgroXpress. FAMA… Continue reading FAMA-Luxamana collaboration boosts agro-food logistics capacity
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Iran says at least 610 killed since start of war with Israel

TEHRAN: Iran said on Tuesday that at least 610 civilians had been killed and more than 4,700 wounded in the Islamic republic since the start of the war with Israel on June 13. “They are all civilians,“ health ministry spokesman Hossein Kermanpour said, announcing the increase from the previously reported toll of more than 400… Continue reading Iran says at least 610 killed since start of war with Israel
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Govt introduces new tax incentives to strengthen venture capital, private equity sectors

KUALA LUMPUR: The government has introduced new tax incentives to strengthen the venture capital (VC) and private equity (PE) sectors in the country, said Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan. He said the new incentive offers a concessionary tax rate of 5% for up to 10 years for investment funds that invest at… Continue reading Govt introduces new tax incentives to strengthen venture capital, private equity sectors
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Malaysia at crossroads of deep ties with China and reliance on Western systems: Tunku Naquiyuddin

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is at a crossroads, balancing its deep economic ties with China while relying on US security guarantees and Western investment flows. While Chinese companies increasingly shape the country’s digital infrastructure, Malaysia’s financial markets remain closely linked to Western systems. Tunku Laksamana of Negeri Sembilan Tunku Datuk Seri Utama Naquiyuddin ibni Almarhum Tuanku… Continue reading Malaysia at crossroads of deep ties with China and reliance on Western systems: Tunku Naquiyuddin
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Malaysia navigating global challenges in digital transformation

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is navigating a complex global environment shaped by geopolitical tensions, ongoing trade wars and the impact of tariffs across industries. Despite these challenges, the country is presented with significant opportunities in artificial intelligence, digital transformation and green technologies, requiring a thoughtful balance between risk and potential. Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association president Datuk… Continue reading Malaysia navigating global challenges in digital transformation
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MOE clarifies no circular on A- grade exclusion in matriculation

KUALA LUMPUR: The Education Ministry (MOE) has never issued any circular stating that an A- grade is not considered an excellent result or that students with such grades are ineligible to apply for the matriculation programme. Minister Fadhlina Sidek dismissed the claims as baseless and stressed that all students with excellent academic achievement are eligible… Continue reading MOE clarifies no circular on A- grade exclusion in matriculation
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Starbucks not considering full China exit

SHANGHAI: US cafe chain Starbucks said it is not currently considering a full sale of its China operations, after Chinese financial magazine Caixin reported that it was, without disclosing where it obtained the information. Starbucks has held preliminary talks with more than a dozen potential buyers, Caixin also reported on Monday, citing sources who did… Continue reading Starbucks not considering full China exit
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