Category: Local

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is taking the lead in strengthening regional cooperation through the newly proposed ASEAN AI Safety Network, a platform designed to promote shared standards in artificial intelligence (AI) governance, ethics, and innovation. This initiative aligns with the country’s ASEAN chairmanship this year. Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo emphasised the importance of embedding trust… Continue reading Malaysia leads ASEAN AI safety network for ethical governance

MARANG: The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has recorded 76 fire incidents in school areas nationwide this year, with electrical faults accounting for 60% of cases. Director-General Datuk Nor Hisham Mohammad stated that wiring issues, electrical equipment misuse, and power supply resistance were the main contributors. “We did not categorise fire incidents as happening… Continue reading Fire incidents in Malaysian schools rise due to electrical faults

MARANG: The Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM) has deferred to the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) regarding the sentencing of motoring influencer Tengku Nizaruddin Tengku Zainudin and his brother, Tengku Abdul Aziz, for lodging a false police report. JBPM director-general Datuk Nor Hisham Mohamad stated that while public sentiment suggests the punishment was too… Continue reading Fire department defers to AGC over influencer brothers’ false report case

KUANTAN: Three men suspected of drug abuse attempted a daring escape by jumping into Sungai Belat during a raid under Ops Guardian today. The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) Pahang, led by Deputy Director of Operations Maritime Captain Mohd Marmizi Md Nor, conducted the joint operation with seven other enforcement agencies. The dramatic chase unfolded… Continue reading Dramatic river chase in Kuantan as three suspects arrested in drug raid

KUALA LUMPUR: Police have detained five foreigners suspected of being part of a ‘magic gang’ involved in stealing money from tourists using deceptive hand tricks in the city centre. Dang Wangi district police chief ACP Sulizmie Affendy Sulaiman confirmed the arrests, stating that the suspects, all from Middle Eastern countries, were apprehended in separate raids… Continue reading Five magic gang suspects arrested for tricking tourists in KL

KUALA LUMPUR: Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar commended Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for mediating ceasefire talks between Cambodia and Thailand. The negotiations, held in Putrajaya, underscored Malaysia’s proactive role as ASEAN Chair in resolving regional disputes. Shamsul Azri highlighted Anwar’s pivotal involvement in a Facebook post, stating,… Continue reading Malaysia’s PM Anwar facilitates Cambodia-Thailand ceasefire as ASEAN chair

KUANTAN: UMNO vice-president Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail has called for full support for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s diplomatic efforts in facilitating a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia. He emphasised that such achievements should transcend political divisions, highlighting Malaysia’s respected role in ASEAN. Wan Rosdy stated, “In my view, being a politician… Continue reading Anwar’s role in Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire wins praise from Wan Rosdy

BANGI: The Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, has stressed the need for halal auditors to perform their duties with unwavering integrity and impartiality. Speaking at the Malaysian Auditor Convention 2025, he warned that negligence or bias could damage the credibility of Islamic institutions. “Fairness must be upheld… Continue reading Halal auditors must uphold fairness and integrity, says Mohd Na’im

KUALA LUMPUR: A special meeting was held to tackle telecommunications and internet coverage issues on Malaysian highways, according to Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi. The discussion involved Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), and the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM). The meeting was prompted by frequent complaints from… Continue reading Malaysia holds special meeting to improve highway telecom coverage

KUANTAN: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in Pahang has detained two senior police officers and a retired policeman for allegedly accepting bribes totalling RM110,000. The suspects were reportedly involved in shielding drug and ketum distribution activities in the state. A source revealed that the three men, aged between their 30s and 50s, were arrested around… Continue reading MACC arrests retired, senior police officers in RM110,000 bribe case

KUALA SELANGOR: All parties must exercise caution and responsibility when commenting on issues involving other countries, said Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) vice-president Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari. Amirudin, who is also Selangor Menteri Besar, emphasised that not every matter should be turned into political capital. He stressed the need for maturity and moderation in Malaysia’s political… Continue reading Amirudin urges caution when commenting on foreign issues

PETALING JAYA: The post-mortem on the body of a six-year-old boy found deceased in Rompin, Jempol yesterday, revealed that the cause of death was pressure to the neck. According to Kosmo, Negri Sembilan police chief, Datuk Ahmad Dzaffir Mohd. Yussof (pic), stated that the findings were obtained from the approximately four-hour post-mortem, which began at… Continue reading Six-year-old found dead: Cable tie strangulation confirmed

JAKARTA: Malaysia has consistently pursued a diplomatic and legal approach in addressing maritime border disputes with Indonesia, particularly in the Sulawesi Sea, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said. Speaking at a dialogue with the Association of Malaysian Indonesian Journalists (ISWAMI) and Indonesian media editors, Anwar emphasised Malaysia’s adherence to international law and peaceful negotiations.… Continue reading Malaysia reaffirms diplomatic approach to maritime border dispute with Indonesia

LENGGONG: The 30th edition of Malaysia’s Keris Strike Exercise has reinforced its reputation as a key multilateral military initiative, attracting observer delegations from Thailand and Japan for the first time. Army Chief General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan highlighted the exercise’s expanding global appeal during the closing ceremony at Felda Lawin. “This reflects three decades… Continue reading Keris Strike Exercise gains global traction with Thailand, Japan observers

GEORGE TOWN: Two Immigration officers were detained by the Penang Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) for suspected involvement in ‘counter-setting’ activities at Penang International Airport. The arrests followed intelligence reports indicating abuse of power and bribery in processing foreign entries. The MACC explained that ‘counter-setting’ refers to a scheme where officers deliberately allow foreigners to enter… Continue reading Two immigration officers detained for corruption at Penang airport

KUALA LUMPUR: The All-Party Parliamentary Group Malaysia on Children’s Rights (APPGM-CR) is setting up a Children’s Council to enable children to act as temporary MPs and advocate for their rights. Chairman Rodziah Ismail stated that this initiative ensures children’s perspectives are heard directly, rather than filtered through adult interpretations. Rodziah, who is also the Ampang… Continue reading Malaysia to launch Children’s Council empowering kids as MPs

SHAH ALAM: The Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS) has launched Phase 1 of the Kota Puteri Green Industrial Park (GRIP) project, presenting a strategic investment opportunity with 52 semi-detached factory units and 13 industrial land lots in Rawang. The initiative aims to attract businesses seeking a modern, sustainable industrial environment with high connectivity and incentives.… Continue reading Kota Puteri GRIP Phase 1 offers modern industrial investment in Selangor

GUA MUSANG: The government has allocated over RM3.3 million to support rural communities in Pos Brooke and Kuala Betis through the Essential Goods Distribution Programme. The initiative, running from this year until 2027, aims to provide six essential goods—white rice, white sugar, wheat flour, cooking oil, LPG, and RON95 petrol—at prices matching urban rates. Kelantan… Continue reading RM3.3 mln aid for rural communities in Gua Musang

KUCHING: Youth mental health is facing unprecedented strain due to academic pressures, economic instability, digital saturation, and unstable family dynamics, warns Sarawak Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. Speaking at the Sarawak International Conference on Youth Mental Health 2025, Abdul Karim emphasised the urgent need for systemic reforms.… Continue reading Youth mental health crisis demands systemic support in Sarawak

KUALA LUMPUR: The Cross-Border Insolvency Bill 2025 has been passed by the Dewan Rakyat, marking a significant step in Malaysia’s efforts to attract foreign direct investments (FDI) and reinforce economic stability. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said emphasised that the bill aligns Malaysia with progressive international… Continue reading Cross-Border Insolvency Bill 2025 boosts FDI and economic stability

KLANG: Sabak Bernam has been identified as Selangor’s top rice-producing district, contributing over 60 per cent of the state’s total rice sales, according to the 2024 Selangor Agricultural Census Interim Report. Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin revealed that rice cultivation in Sabak Bernam spans 24,098 hectares, generating RM220.1 million in sales. “This… Continue reading Sabak Bernam leads Selangor rice production with RM220 million sales

JOHOR BAHRU: The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) in Johor has dismantled an illegal operation involving the misappropriation of subsidised liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) intended for the black market and industrial sector. The raid, conducted in Ulu Tiram, led to the arrest of five foreign workers and the seizure of 1,357… Continue reading Johor KPDN busts illegal LPG storage in Ulu Tiram raid

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s diplomatic efforts in brokering a ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand must be respected by all parties, including political opponents, said Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching. She stressed that the matter should not be trivialised, given its regional significance. Teo emphasised that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s role in facilitating the… Continue reading Respect Anwar’s diplomatic efforts in Cambodia-Thailand ceasefire – Teo

LENGGONG: The Malaysian Army is conducting an internal investigation into the death of a 22nd Commando Regiment member during Exercise Seaghost Series 1/2025. Army Chief General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan stated that preliminary findings suggest ageing equipment may have contributed to the incident. Cpl Mohd Haswansir Julnasir, 30, was reported missing on July 3… Continue reading Army probes equipment issues in commando’s death during Seaghost training

KUALA LUMPUR: An Indian national has been sentenced to 35 years in prison and 12 strokes of the cane for murdering his girlfriend in 2022. The High Court found Palwinder Singh, 28, guilty of strangling the 36-year-old woman after a sexual encounter in a Bukit Bintang hotel. Judge Datuk Azhar Abdul Hamid ruled that the… Continue reading Indian national gets 35 years, caning for murdering girlfriend in KL

JAKARTA: ASEAN must prioritise building a more integrated and resilient economy to navigate global economic challenges, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Speaking at the ASEAN Secretariat, Anwar emphasised the region’s potential as a vibrant market of 660 million people. “The potential is undeniable, but to realise it fully, we must narrow the existing… Continue reading ASEAN must build integrated, resilient economy amid global challenges

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia has reinforced its role as ASEAN Chair by advancing digital growth and fostering regional stability, said Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching. She highlighted Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s pivotal role in mediating a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia, showcasing Malaysia’s diplomatic leadership. “This achievement underscores Malaysia’s dedication to maintaining Southeast… Continue reading Malaysia drives ASEAN digital growth and regional peace under Teo Nie Ching

KUALA LUMPUR: The ‘A Gift from ASEAN’ exhibition at the National Art Gallery, originally set to conclude this week, has been extended until December 31 due to strong visitor turnout. The gallery announced the extension today, citing its alignment with Malaysia’s cultural diplomacy efforts ahead of the ASEAN Summit in October. The exhibition, which opened… Continue reading ASEAN art exhibition extended until Dec 31 at National Art Gallery

KUALA LUMPUR: The Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP), Datuk Ewon Benedick, has called on university students to take charge of their futures by embracing entrepreneurship instead of waiting for traditional job opportunities. Speaking at the launch of the Bank Rakyat UNIpreneur and RAKYATpreneur programmes at the Bank Rakyat Twin Towers, Ewon stressed the… Continue reading Ewon urges students to embrace entrepreneurship for future success

MUAR: A 46-year-old factory worker lost nearly RM500,000 after falling victim to an online investment scam promising unrealistically high returns. The victim, who lodged a police report yesterday, was lured by an advertisement on social media in early May. Muar police chief ACP Raiz Mukhliz Azman Aziz said the victim clicked on a link and… Continue reading Factory worker loses RM500k in online investment scam in Muar

REMBAU: The motive behind the suspected murder of a six-year-old boy, whose body was found buried in Rompin, Jempol, remains undetermined, according to Negeri Sembilan police chief Datuk Ahmad Dzaffir Mohd Yussof. The main suspect, the boy’s 36-year-old biological father, has been arrested. Preliminary investigations suggest the suspect was facing marital problems with his wife.… Continue reading Police probe motive in boy’s murder as suspect remains uncooperative

KOTA KINABALU: The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) successfully fired multiple Exocet missiles and a Black Shark torpedo during the TAMING SARI 23/25 exercise in the South China Sea, marking a significant milestone in the country’s maritime defence capabilities. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin confirmed the live-fire drills were conducted to enhance operational readiness.… Continue reading Royal Malaysian Navy fires Exocet missiles, Black Shark torpedo in South China Sea drill

PUTRAJAYA: The government will implement an integrated strategy involving multiple ministries and agencies to combat the alarming 53.2% increase in sexual crimes against children over the past four years. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced the initiative following a National Social Council (MSN) meeting, highlighting the urgent need for a coordinated… Continue reading Malaysia adopts integrated strategy to combat child sexual crimes

PETALING JAYA: The government will implement a whole-of-government strategy to address the alarming rise in child sexual crimes, as Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (pic) revealed that such cases surged by over 50% in just four years. Citing official statistics, Ahmad Zahid said reported child sexual offences rose from 2,541 cases in… Continue reading Government to adopt integrated approach to tackle child sexual crimes

KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court dismissed Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad’s application to recuse Judicial Commissioner Arziah Mohamed Apandi from presiding over his defamation suit against former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak. The case revolves around a Facebook post alleging cronyism. JC Arziah ruled that Dzulkefly failed to prove any real… Continue reading High Court dismisses Dzulkefly’s bid to recuse JC Arziah in Najib defamation suit

KLANG: A comprehensive approach is necessary to attract and encourage young people to join the agricultural sector, said Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari. The move follows findings from the Selangor 2024 Agricultural Census Interim Report, which revealed that the majority of farmers in the state are aged 46 and above. Amirudin emphasised that… Continue reading Comprehensive approach needed to attract youth to agriculture in Selangor

JOHOR BAHRU: Johor has approved 42 data centre construction projects in the second quarter of 2025, solidifying its status as a leader in digital investment and high-tech economic growth. The announcement was made by Johor Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor, who highlighted the state’s role in advancing the Johor-Singapore… Continue reading Johor approves 42 data centre projects in Q2 2025

PUTRAJAYA: The Court of Appeal today rejected a former soldier’s bid to challenge his discharge from the Malaysian Armed Forces for refusing the COVID-19 vaccination. A three-judge panel, led by Justice Datuk Azimah Omar, ruled that the termination was lawful and free from procedural flaws. Justice Azimah stated, “The court is of the view that… Continue reading Court of Appeal dismisses ex-soldier’s challenge over COVID-19 vaccine refusal

KUALA LUMPUR: Germany has acknowledged Malaysia’s crucial role in mediating recent border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced. The appreciation was conveyed by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during a phone call late yesterday. Anwar shared on Facebook, “This is a recognition of Malaysia’s regional diplomatic capability and commitment to… Continue reading Germany praises Malaysia’s diplomatic role in Thai-Cambodian ceasefire

KUCHING: A government agency assistant executive in his 50s was cheated out of RM385,000 from his Employees Provident Fund (EPF) savings in an online scam. The victim received a call from a fraudster posing as a police officer from the Penang Police Contingent Headquarters. Miri police chief ACP Mohd Farhan Lee Abdullah said the scammer… Continue reading Government executive loses RM385k EPF savings to online scam in Kuching

KUCHING: Schools across Sarawak have been instructed to minimise outdoor activities as haze and hot weather persist, raising health concerns for students. State Women, Children and Community Wellbeing Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah emphasised the need for precautionary measures, particularly for vulnerable children. Fatimah advised that extracurricular programmes should be moved indoors where possible. “The… Continue reading Sarawak schools urged to limit outdoor activities amid haze

KUCHING: A total of 110 Sarawakian students have been awarded Petronas education sponsorships worth RM28 million to pursue higher education at leading universities in Malaysia and abroad. The recipients, selected from nearly 9,000 applicants, demonstrated outstanding academic performance, leadership qualities, and active participation in co-curricular activities during their 2024 Sijil Peperiksaan Malaysia (SPM) examinations. The… Continue reading 110 Sarawak students receive RM28m Petronas education sponsorships

KUALA LUMPUR: The second phase of Malaysia’s National Digital Network (JENDELA) will start in September, adopting a hybrid approach to speed up nationwide connectivity, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil announced. Nearly 3,000 sites will be upgraded under Phase 2, moving away from traditional tower construction. “We are considering hybrid solutions, like 30-metre monopoles, instead of full-sized… Continue reading JENDELA Phase 2 starts September with hybrid telecom approach

SEPANG: A local woman was detained at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 last night after authorities discovered nine exotic animals hidden in her luggage. The 39-year-old suspect, en route to India, was intercepted during a routine baggage inspection by the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS). The seized animals included four siamangs,… Continue reading Woman caught smuggling nine exotic animals at KLIA worth RM127k

JAKARTA: Malaysia has never adopted an aggressive stance in addressing maritime border issues with Indonesia, including the long-standing Ambalat dispute in the Sulawesi Sea, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said. At a dialogue with the Association of Malaysian Indonesian Journalists (ISWAMI) and chief editors of major Indonesian media outlets here today, Anwar stressed that… Continue reading Malaysia stresses legal route in Ambalat Sea dispute

PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has issued 279 Commission Directives to mobile service providers nationwide for non-compliance with the Mandatory Standards for Service Quality (MSQoS). This move aligns with Commission Determination No. 2 of 2023, which ensures that service providers meet minimum standards for wireless broadband access in both urban and rural… Continue reading MCMC issues 279 directives for service quality failures

KUALA LUMPUR: The Automatic Fuel Adjustment (AFA), the new adjustment mechanism for electricity tariffs in Peninsular Malaysia, is aimed at ensuring tariff reviews are more transparent and in line with the global fuel market reality, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. Fadillah, who is also the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister,… Continue reading New electricity tariff mechanism boosts transparency in Malaysia