Category: Local

PUTRAJAYA: NanoMalaysia Bhd (NMB), an agency under the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (MOSTI), has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with three companies to explore the use of agricultural waste in producing cellulose nanofibers for industrial applications. The agreement involves SEED Tech Sdn Bhd (STSB), XMU Jiageng Education Development Sdn Bhd (XMU), and Henan… Continue reading NanoMalaysia partners with firms to turn agricultural waste into nanofibers

KUALA LUMPUR: The Employees Provident Fund (EPF) has acknowledged the government’s proposal under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) to introduce a monthly pension payout scheme for its members. The agency confirmed the plan is under review, with decisions pending thorough consultations and alignment with members’ long-term financial security. “Existing withdrawal mechanisms remain unchanged,“ EPF clarified… Continue reading EPF studies monthly pension scheme under Malaysia’s 13MP plan

KUALA LUMPUR: Halal products imported from the US must adhere to Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM) standards, affirmed Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz. He clarified that while trade facilitation agreements were reached, halal certification integrity remains non-negotiable. “What we have agreed with the US is to facilitate the… Continue reading Malaysia insists on JAKIM halal standards for US imports

KUALA LUMPUR: The Alor Setar High Court has sentenced a 44-year-old unemployed man to death for the murder of a three-year-old girl in Langkawi six years ago. Ramlan Abdul Rashid was found guilty of killing Nur Aisyah Aleya Abdullah at a hospital staff quarters between 9 am and 10 am on Feb 23, 2019, under… Continue reading Unemployed man gets death penalty for murder of 3-year-old in Langkawi

HULU SELANGOR: A post-mortem has confirmed that a man whose body was discovered near railway tracks in Sungai Serian, Kalumpang, died from strangulation. Hulu Selangor district police chief Supt Ibrahim Husin stated that the victim’s identity remains unknown, and the case is being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder. “There were… Continue reading Man found dead near railway tracks was strangled, say Hulu Selangor police

PUTRAJAYA: Progressive trade outcomes such as the United States’ decision to reduce tariffs on Malaysian exports will have positive ripple effects across multiple sectors, including construction and manufacturing, said Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming. He said the move to lower tariffs from 25 per cent to 19 per cent, effective today, reflects… Continue reading US tariff cut boosts Malaysia’s construction and manufacturing sectors

JOHOR BAHRU: Police have confirmed no criminal involvement in the death of a Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Reserve Officer Training Unit (PALAPES) cadet at the Malaysian Army Combat Training Centre (PULADA) in Ulu Tiram. Kota Tinggi district police chief Supt Yusof Othman stated that autopsy results showed no signs of criminal injuries on the 22-year-old… Continue reading Police confirm no foul play in UTM cadet’s death at PULADA

KUALA LUMPUR: Semiconductor and pharmaceutical exports to the United States will remain exempt from the 19 per cent tariff for now, according to Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz. Describing the decision as a win-win outcome, Tengku Zafrul noted that the US is still reviewing its trade laws… Continue reading Malaysia’s semiconductor and pharma sectors exempt from US tariff

PUTRAJAYA: Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz will provide details in the Dewan Rakyat on Monday regarding the United States’ decision to lower tariffs on Malaysian goods from 25% to 19%. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil confirmed the update during a post-Cabinet press conference. “Tengku Zafrul will inform Parliament on… Continue reading US tariff cut to 19%: Tengku Zafrul to explain in Dewan Rakyat

PUTRAJAYA: The General Border Committee (GBC) meeting aimed at resolving border conflicts between Cambodia and Thailand has been relocated to Kuala Lumpur and will take place next Tuesday (Aug 5). Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil confirmed the change, stating that Thailand requested the shift from Phnom Penh to Malaysia’s capital. The decision was discussed during… Continue reading Cambodia-Thailand border talks move to Kuala Lumpur next week

KOTA KINABALU: The Agrofood Financing Fund (DPA) 2025, worth RM200 million, was officially launched today with Agrobank as the implementing agency. The initiative aims to bolster Malaysia’s agrofood sector by providing financial support to entrepreneurs across the agricultural value chain. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said the fund… Continue reading RM200 million agrofood financing fund launched to boost Malaysia’s food security

MELAKA: A former director and his company were fined RM15,000 by the Ayer Keroh Sessions Court for failing to pay service tax and penalties amounting to RM139,755.25 between 2021 and 2023. Judge Haderiah Siri imposed the sentence after Ng Wen Hua, 31, and Go Lounge Sdn Bhd pleaded guilty to five charges. She also ordered… Continue reading Former director, company fined RM15,000 for unpaid service tax in Melaka

KOTA KINABALU: The 2025 National Farmers, Breeders and Fishermen’s Day (HPPNK) eSports competition at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) has drawn an overwhelming response, particularly from young participants. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup noted that 43 teams, comprising 258 youths, are competing in the three-day event. “This… Continue reading HPPNK 2025 eSports competition draws huge youth turnout in Kota Kinabalu

SHAH ALAM: The Rumah Idaman Bukit Jelutong affordable housing project has been fully completed, with 1,260 units scheduled for handover to owners starting next week. The handover ceremony will be officiated by Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari on August 8. Permodalan Negeri Selangor Berhad (PNSB) confirmed the completion in a statement, highlighting that… Continue reading Rumah Idaman Bukit Jelutong project completed, 1,260 units ready

BUTTERWORTH: A chemical spill involving 500 litres of ammonia at a factory in Taman Pelangi, Perai, was successfully contained by firefighters today, averting further spread within the premises. The Penang Fire and Rescue Department received an emergency call at 9.10 am, prompting an immediate response from the Perai Fire and Rescue Station. “Upon arrival, it… Continue reading 500 litres of ammonia spill contained at Perai factory

PUTRAJAYA: The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening national food security through strategic initiatives under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP). The ministry stated that Thrust A of the 13MP, which focuses on enhancing economic complexity, will drive comprehensive efforts to reduce import dependency and improve the resilience of… Continue reading KPKM boosts food security under 13MP with agrofood strategies

GEORGE TOWN: The Penang state government has introduced the Penang Resilience Strategy (PRS), a comprehensive plan designed to enhance the state’s ability to withstand future global disruptions. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow described the PRS as a collective commitment to safeguarding Penang against uncertainties in an evolving world. Chow highlighted that the PRS, Malaysia’s first… Continue reading Penang launches first state-level resilience strategy to combat global disruptions

KUALA LUMPUR: The suspect who stabbed a policeman during a crime prevention patrol at Pudu Market, Jalan Yew, has tested positive for heroin. Kuala Lumpur acting police chief Datuk Mohamed Usuf Jan Mohamad confirmed the suspect was under the influence of drugs during the attack. “Checks found that the individual has 14 previous records, including… Continue reading Suspect in cop stabbing tests positive for heroin in Kuala Lumpur

JOHOR BAHRU: Regent of Johor Tunku Mahkota Ismail has pledged to address the recent water supply disruptions plaguing Pontian district residents. His commitment follows public outcry over a four-day outage, initially attributed to scheduled pipe closures but later exacerbated by a burst pipeline. In an Instagram story, His Royal Highness responded to a complaint shared… Continue reading Johor Regent pledges to resolve Pontian water disruptions

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Education (MOE) has taken decisive action following an incident where a student assaulted a teacher in Kajang, Selangor. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek stated that the ministry will not tolerate any misconduct involving school staff. Fadhlina addressed the issue in a Facebook post, confirming that the incident stemmed from a misunderstanding… Continue reading MOE takes firm action against student assaulting teacher in Kajang

PUTRAJAYA: Minister of Housing and Local Government YB Nga Kor Ming welcomes the decision by the United States Government to reduce its tariff on Malaysian exports from 25% to 19%, effective 1 August 2025. The outcome, achieved through sustained bilateral negotiations by Ministry of Trade and investment(MITI), reflects the growing strength of Malaysia–U.S. relations under… Continue reading US tariff reduction on Malaysia, a reflection of MADANI government’s diplomacy prowess – KPKT Minister

KUALA LUMPUR: Ten police officers recently arrested by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in Pahang and Johor will face disciplinary action, according to Bukit Aman’s Integrity and Standard Compliance Department (JIPS) Director, Datuk Hamzah Ahmad. An internal investigation has been initiated, including the possibility of suspending the officers involved. “This case involves the arrest of… Continue reading 10 police officers detained by MACC face disciplinary action

KUALA LUMPUR: The Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) has welcomed the United States’ decision to lower reciprocal tariffs on Malaysian goods, calling it a strategic boost for trade competitiveness. The tariff reduction from 25% to 19% is expected to benefit key export sectors, including electrical and electronics, machinery, and rubber-based products. FMM president Tan Sri… Continue reading US tariff cut boosts Malaysia’s trade competitiveness with improved relations

KUCHING: The proposed upgrade of road networks along the Sabah-Sarawak-Kalimantan border under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) marks a continuation of efforts to strengthen cross-border infrastructure between Malaysian Borneo and Indonesia. Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas stated that the state government had long advocated for this initiative and praised the federal government’s… Continue reading Malaysia upgrades Borneo-Indonesia border roads under 13MP

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s education premised on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and utilising artificial intelligence (AI) with a focus on applied learning across sectors are vital components in the quest to create a high value-added economy, economists said today. They said such a strategy focusing on these two areas was critical bearing in mind… Continue reading Nurture interest in STEM, use AI on applied learning to push Malaysia to a high value-added economy – Economists

PUTRAJAYA: Former Malaysian Merchant Marine Bhd (MMM) executive deputy chairman Datuk Ramesh Rajaratnam has failed in his attempt to review a Court of Appeal decision reinstating his insider trading conviction. A three-judge panel dismissed his application, clearing the way for his appeal to proceed at the Kuala Lumpur High Court on Aug 20. Ramesh, 61,… Continue reading Ex-MMM executive loses bid to review insider trading conviction

PERAK: The Perak Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) seized 432 subsidised liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders during a raid at a chicken farm in Segari, Manjung. The operation, conducted yesterday, uncovered unauthorised use of the gas for heating chicken coops. Datuk Kamalludin Ismail, Perak KPDN director, led the raid under Op… Continue reading Perak KPDN seizes 432 subsidised LPG cylinders at Manjung farm

SEREMBAN: Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun has reminded the public to display the Jalur Gemilang correctly as a mark of respect for the nation. Speaking at the state-level Fly the Jalur Gemilang Campaign launch, he emphasised that flying the flag properly reflects patriotism and unity. “We have been independent for 68 years,… Continue reading Correct way to display Jalur Gemilang urged by Negeri Sembilan MB

KUCHING: Fraud cases in Sarawak have surged significantly this year, raising alarm among authorities. Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mancha Ata revealed that from January 1 to July 30, 2,256 commercial crime investigation papers were opened, marking an 858-case increase compared to the same period in 2024. The spike in scams has also led to higher… Continue reading Rising scam cases in Sarawak cause concern, police warn

KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has lauded the Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) for its three decades of exemplary service, highlighting its role in elevating Malaysia’s global humanitarian standing. Ahmad Zahid, who chairs the National Disaster Management Committee, acknowledged SMART’s contributions in domestic and international crises.… Continue reading Ahmad Zahid praises SMART’s 30 years of disaster rescue excellence

MELAKA: A couple was charged in the Ayer Keroh Magistrate’s Court today for allegedly trafficking 15.06 grammes of heroin last month. Ahmad Ramdzan Mohamed, 26, and Farah Amira Mohamad Ali, 28, acknowledged the charge but did not enter a plea as drug trafficking cases are under High Court jurisdiction. The charge states they were found… Continue reading Couple faces drug trafficking charges in Melaka court

KUALA LUMPUR: The Dewan Rakyat concluded its second week with the tabling of the 13th Malaysian Plan (13MP) and the passage of eight critical bills. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim unveiled the 2026-2030 roadmap, themed “Redesigning Development,“ emphasizing RM611 billion in investments to bolster national progress. Anwar outlined the plan’s three core principles: sovereign… Continue reading Dewan Rakyat passes eight bills amid 13MP tabling for 2026-2030

SEREMBAN: The Negeri Sembilan water tariff increase is aimed at improving services and addressing financial challenges, according to Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun. He clarified that the adjustment was carefully reviewed with the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) and aligns with similar moves in other states. Aminuddin explained that the revised… Continue reading Negeri Sembilan water tariff hike to improve services, says MB

PUTRAJAYA: The merger between the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) and the Malaysian Aviation Commission (MAVCOM) is now in full effect, consolidating all regulatory functions under CAAM. The Ministry of Transport (MOT) confirmed the move today, marking a shift towards a more streamlined aviation oversight system aligned with global standards. Datuk Mohamed Sharil Tarmizi… Continue reading CAAM-MAVCOM merger takes effect, Sharil Tarmizi named new chairman

KUALA LUMPUR: Short- and long-term strategies to alleviate chronic traffic congestion along Jalan Bangsar are now in the works following discussions between Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), and property developers. The meeting took place at the Parliament building yesterday. Fahmi, who is also the Lembah Pantai MP, shared updates on Facebook… Continue reading New strategies to ease Bangsar traffic congestion announced

KUALA LUMPUR: United States President Donald Trump’s confirmation to attend the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur this October has been hailed as a diplomatic milestone for Malaysia. The move reinforces the country’s role as a neutral mediator amid rising US-China strategic competition. Analysts view Trump’s participation as a significant endorsement of Malaysia’s diplomatic credibility,… Continue reading Malaysia’s neutral diplomacy praised as Trump confirms ASEAN summit visit

JOHOR BAHRU: Healthcare workers have expressed strong support for reforms under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), particularly the expanded use of generic medicines and AI-driven health record management. These measures aim to enhance affordability, accessibility, and efficiency in the healthcare sector. Aziahtun Akma Mohd Sarkawi, a veteran nurse with 27 years of experience, highlighted the… Continue reading Malaysia healthcare workers praise 13MP reforms for AI and cost efficiency

KUALA LUMPUR: An unemployed man pleaded not guilty in the Sessions Court today to a charge of raping his former sister-in-law two years ago. The 31-year-old accused allegedly committed the offence at an apartment in Bandar Bukit Jalil, Cheras, at 3.30 am on Jan 22, 2023. The charge falls under Section 376 of the Penal… Continue reading Unemployed man pleads not guilty to raping former sister-in-law

GEORGE TOWN: The Penang state government has appointed 19 new commissioners to the Penang Hindu Endowment Board (PHEB) for the 2025–2026 term, following the expiry of the previous term. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said in a statement today that the appointments are effective from August 1, 2025, to July 31, 2026. He also announced… Continue reading Penang appoints 19 new Hindu Endowment Board commissioners

KUCHING: With over 220 fire hotspots detected across Sarawak, fresh calls have been made for a total ban on open burning of agricultural waste to curb worsening wildfires and environmental damage. Senator Abun Sui Anyit, who is also Sarawak Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) information chief, said the deliberate use of fire especially on plantations clearing… Continue reading Sarawak faces over 220 fire hotspots, senator urges burning ban

PETALING JAYA: Institut Masa Depan Malaysia (MASA) is ensuring that research findings are turned into practical solutions to address the country’s strategic challenges through its MASA Policy Development Programme Cohort-3 (MPDP 3.0). In a statement today, its CEO Azril Mohd Amin said MASA is continuing its efforts as a leading policy research institute by driving… Continue reading MASA unveils third policy development cohort to boost Bumiputera empowerment

KUALA LUMPUR: Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail emphasised the media’s crucial role in fostering national unity and raising awareness on sovereignty. Speaking at the IGP Media Appreciation Gathering 2025, he highlighted the need for responsible reporting to maintain peace and stability. Mohd Khalid stated, “The media’s responsibility is not just to… Continue reading Media’s role in unity and sovereignty highlighted by IGP

IPOH: Police confiscated 61 bitcoin mining machines in a joint operation with Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) across nine locations in Manjung, uncovering illegal electricity connections. Manjung police chief ACP Hasbullah Abdul Rahman said the raids followed intelligence gathered by the Criminal Investigation Division and TNB’s technical team after reports of electricity theft. “The raids, carried… Continue reading Police seize 61 bitcoin machines in Manjung electricity theft crackdown

MUAR: Police have dismantled an international drug trafficking syndicate after conducting four simultaneous raids in Johor and the Klang Valley, seizing drugs worth over RM2 million. The operation, carried out on July 21, led to the arrest of 10 suspects, including eight local men, one local woman, and a foreign national aged between 29 and… Continue reading RM2 million drug haul: Syndicate smuggling to Indonesia busted

GEORGE TOWN: Penang has deferred the implementation of the water tariff adjustment under the Tariff Setting Mechanism for the Second Implementation Period by one year to July 1, 2026, said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. Chow said the deferment will benefit 715,957 water consumers in Penang. He said the new tariff, which was supposed to… Continue reading Penang defers water tariff adjustment to July 2026

BUKIT MERTAJAM: A doctor pleaded not guilty in the Magistrate’s Court here today to cheating the Social Security Organisation (Socso) by allegedly forging a domestic worker registration form three years ago. Dr Winnie Ong Beng Cheen, 44, entered her plea after the charge under Section 417 of the Penal Code was read before Magistrate Nurul… Continue reading Doctor pleads not guilty to cheating Socso in Bukit Mertajam court

IPOH: Police have launched an investigation into a viral video allegedly containing defamatory and false claims involving Raja Di-Hilir of Perak, Raja Iskandar Dzurkarnain Sultan Idris Shah. Ipoh police chief ACP Abang Zainal Abidin Abang Ahmad said the video was uploaded by the TikTok account holder ‘The King Xtra The Star’ and was found to… Continue reading Police probe viral video allegedly defaming Raja Di-Hilir of Perak

KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has urged Sabahans to use shared spaces—schools, workplaces, and digital platforms—to foster unity rather than division. Speaking at the launch of the National Month, Sabah Day, and Fly the Jalur Gemilang campaign 2025, he stressed that preserving harmony is a collective responsibility. “Sabah’s strength lies in its… Continue reading Hajiji urges Sabahans to strengthen unity through shared spaces

GEORGE TOWN: The United States’ decision to lower tariffs on Malaysian imports from 25 per cent to 19 per cent is a positive step for the country’s export sector, particularly in Penang, where industries like electrical and electronics (E&E), manufacturing, and medical devices thrive. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the adjustment aligns Malaysia with… Continue reading US tariff cut benefits Malaysia’s export sector, says Chow