Category: Local

KUALA LUMPUR: The government is prioritising national food security in the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) through sustainable agrofood production, supply chain resilience, and innovative farming strategies. The Economic Affairs Ministry’s document highlights large-scale agriculture expansion in East Coast states, Sabah, and Sarawak to meet domestic demand and explore international markets. Padi production will be intensified… Continue reading Malaysia’s 13MP food security strategies for sustainable agrofood growth

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed relief that no serious casualties or widespread damage were reported following the massive earthquake off Russia’s far eastern coast. In a Facebook post, Anwar commended the swift action of early-warning systems and emergency responders who moved quickly to protect lives. He said, “The massive earthquake off… Continue reading Anwar relieved as Russia quake causes no major casualties

SEREMBAN: The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has started distributing 150 community boats worth RM1.8 million nationwide to speed up flood rescue operations. Deputy Minister of Housing and Local Government Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu said the phased handover began today. “The boats will go to eligible recipients like the Community and Volunteer Fire Brigade,… Continue reading JBPM distributes 150 community boats nationwide for flood rescue ops

IPOH: Police arrested two brothers in Kampung Belakang Pasar, Bidor, after discovering a .38 Smith & Wesson revolver and live ammunition in their home. The suspects, aged 45 and 46, were detained following a public report of an explosion heard at the location around 9.20 pm. Tapah district police chief Supt Johari Yahya confirmed the… Continue reading Siblings arrested in Bidor for illegal firearm and ammunition possession

PUTRAJAYA: Former Pahang menteri besar Tan Sri Adnan Yaakob has lost his appeal to set aside an RM84,000 penalty imposed by the Securities Commission (SC) for violating the Capital Market and Services Act 2007 (CMSA). A three-judge panel led by Justice Datuk Azimah Omar ruled that Adnan should have pursued a judicial review to contest… Continue reading Ex-Pahang MB Adnan Yaakob loses appeal over RM84,000 SC penalty

KOTA BHARU: The Kelantan Customs Department uncovered a drug syndicate’s elaborate scheme to smuggle narcotics worth over RM200,000 by disguising them as chocolates and candy. The operation was foiled following a raid at a courier facility in Pengkalan Chepa on July 15. Kelantan Customs director Wan Jamal Abdul Salam Wan Long revealed that officers seized… Continue reading Kelantan customs bust drug syndicate smuggling narcotics as chocolates

IPOH: The Perak Health Department reported 1,213 dengue fever cases and one fatality as of July 26 this year, marking a sharp decrease compared to the same period in 2024. State Human Resources, Health, Indian Community Affairs, and National Integration Committee chairman A. Sivanesan confirmed the figures, noting a significant reduction from last year’s 5,058… Continue reading Perak dengue cases drop to 1,213 with one death as of July 26

KUALA LUMPUR: A new project management mechanism will be introduced under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) to improve strategic planning and execution of development projects. The Ministry of Economy outlined key reforms, including specialised strategic planners in each ministry and enhanced training modules for civil servants. The plan emphasises tighter cost controls and expanded use… Continue reading New project management mechanism under Malaysia’s 13MP plan

JOHOR BAHRU: The proposal for a second Rapid Transit System (RTS 2) linking Tuas in Singapore and Iskandar Puteri in Johor is under discussion between both governments. Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi confirmed the talks during his meeting with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong at The Istana. The nearly hour-long discussion focused on… Continue reading Johor and Singapore discuss RTS 2 proposal linking Tuas and Iskandar Puteri

KUALA LUMPUR: The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) introduces five major health reform strategies to ensure equitable, affordable, and quality healthcare for all Malaysians. These reforms, covering 2026 to 2030, aim to enhance healthcare accessibility and resilience. The Ministry of Economy outlined the strategies, which include financing and governance reforms, strengthening health promotion, improving service delivery,… Continue reading 13MP: Five key strategies for better healthcare

KUALA LUMPUR: The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has urged the Ministry of Works (KKR) to ensure the Multi-Lane Fast Flow (MLFF) system does not impose financial burdens on the government or consumers once finalized. PAC chairperson Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin stressed the need to avoid past issues where projects initially deemed cost-free later required government… Continue reading KKR urged to ensure MLFF system avoids financial burden on govt, consumers

KUALA LUMPUR: The government has unveiled four core strategies under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) to enhance public transport efficiency and infrastructure. These measures aim to increase ridership, reduce operational costs, and improve connectivity nationwide. The strategies focus on financial mechanisms for operators, transit-oriented development (TOD), infrastructure investment, and restructuring rail administration. A key target… Continue reading 13MP outlines four strategies to boost public transport efficiency in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) is set to drive significant growth in the country’s RM6.8 billion skincare and wellness industry. Industry experts believe the plan’s focus on digital-first models and value creation will empower local brands to expand globally. Cynthia Lee, founder of Encorium, a homegrown e-commerce skincare brand, highlighted the plan’s potential… Continue reading 13MP to boost Malaysia’s RM6.8 billion skincare and wellness industry

KUALA LUMPUR: Early childhood education will become compulsory for five-year-olds under Malaysia’s newly released 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), while community-based schools for Orang Asli and rural populations will be expanded nationwide. The Ministry of Economy’s blueprint outlines eight key strategies to transform education quality across all levels. The document states: “Education reform is a key… Continue reading Malaysia makes preschool mandatory at age 5 in new education reforms

KUALA LUMPUR: The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, demonstrates the government’s dedication to advancing the MADANI Economy framework, aiming to elevate living standards and reshape the nation’s economic landscape. In a statement, the MADANI Backbenchers Club (BBC) highlighted that the 13MP builds upon recent policy foundations, charting a… Continue reading 13MP reflects government’s commitment to MADANI Economy goals

KUANTAN: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in Pahang has detained six police officers for seven days over allegations of soliciting and accepting bribes worth RM12,000. The bribes were reportedly taken to avoid legal action in a ketum juice possession case. Magistrate Khamisah Ismail approved the remand order until August 6 after the MACC filed its… Continue reading MACC detains six cops over RM12,000 bribery in Pahang

KUCHING: Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has called on the people to honour the sacrifices of national heroes who fought for Malaysia’s independence and peace. He emphasised the importance of gratitude for the nation’s current prosperity, which was achieved through past struggles. “We must understand that the comforts we enjoy today were… Continue reading Sarawak premier honours national heroes on warriors day

KUALA LUMPUR: The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) places strong emphasis on improving the socioeconomic conditions of the Indian community, aligning with the inclusive MADANI economic framework. Deputy Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Seri R Ramanan highlighted the plan’s targeted initiatives to enhance education, entrepreneurship, and infrastructure for the community. “13MP focuses on capacity and… Continue reading 13MP boosts Indian community under MADANI economic agenda

KUALA LUMPUR:The Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP) will drive micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) expansion and third-sector empowerment under the newly tabled 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP). Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick outlined key strategies to strengthen business ecosystems and enhance social entrepreneurship. KUSKOP’s initiatives will focus on improving MSME resilience, increasing third-sector visibility,… Continue reading KUSKOP to boost MSME growth and third-sector empowerment under 13MP

KUALA LUMPUR: The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim serves as a key driver for the country to achieve its MADANI Economy aspirations. Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan highlighted that the plan sets Malaysia on the right path toward becoming a developed nation, ensuring citizens benefit… Continue reading 13MP drives Malaysia towards MADANI Economy goals

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s headline inflation declined to 1.1 per cent in June 2025, down from 1.2 per cent in May, according to Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM). Core inflation remained unchanged at 1.8 per cent. The central bank attributed the easing headline inflation to lower price pressures in non-core items, particularly fresh food, diesel, and air… Continue reading Malaysia’s inflation drops to 1.1% in June 2025, core inflation steady

KUALA LUMPUR: The government will establish a national single housing agency and introduce a rent-to-own (RTO) model as part of major housing reforms under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP). These measures aim to improve access to affordable housing and ease the cost of living for Malaysians. The Ministry of Economy outlined these reforms in the… Continue reading 13M: Malaysia to establish national housing agency and rent-to-own scheme

KUALA LUMPUR: The opportunity to host the 2027 SEA Games will be leveraged to elevate Malaysia’s global standing, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced today. Speaking during the tabling of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) in Parliament, Anwar emphasised the event’s role in showcasing the nation’s capabilities. “Besides the 2027 SEA Games, Malaysia will… Continue reading Malaysia to host 2027 SEA Games, boosting global image – PM Anwar

KOTA KINABALU: Over 600,000 households in Sabah and Labuan will experience rotational power disruptions from August 1 to 7 due to scheduled maintenance at the Sabah Oil and Gas Terminal in Kimanis, Papar. Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB) confirmed the load shedding operations, attributing the outages to gas supply cuts affecting two major power plants.… Continue reading Load shedding to impact 600,000 Sabah and Labuan households

PETALING JAYA: The RM51 billion allocation for the security sector under the 13th Malaysia Plan (MP13) reflects the government’s recognition of security as a key pillar of national stability and progress, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. In a Facebook post today, he lauded the 13th Malaysia Plan (MP13) as a comprehensive and… Continue reading MP13: RM51bil allocation underscores security as pillar of stability: Saifuddin

PETALING JAYA: Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari (pic) has expressed full support for the recently tabled 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13), commending its focus on inclusive, strategic development and the upliftment of the rakyat’s dignity. Speaking after attending the tabling of RMK-13 by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in the Dewan Rakyat, Amirudin… Continue reading Selangor MB backs 13MP for inclusive growth

KOTA KINABALU: Police have recorded statements from about 60 witnesses, including students, parents, and school officials, in the investigation into the death of 13-year-old religious school student Zara Qairina on July 17. Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Jauteh Dikun confirmed the progress, adding that counselling experts are assisting traumatised students in providing clear statements. “We have… Continue reading 60 witnesses give statements on Zara Qairina’s fatal fall – Sabah police

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is positioning itself as a regional leader in the digital economy and green technology by 2030, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced while tabling the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) in Parliament. The plan, themed “Redesigning Development,“ sets a five-year roadmap (2026–2030) to drive innovation, AI adoption, and sustainable growth. Anwar highlighted… Continue reading 13 MP: Malaysia aims for digital economy and green tech leadership by 2030

KUALA LUMPUR: The government has set an ambitious target to increase Malaysia’s halal export value to RM80 billion while raising the industry’s contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to 11% under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP). Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced this during the tabling of the plan in the Dewan Rakyat.… Continue reading 13MP: Malaysia targets RM80 billion halal exports

PETALING JAYA: The Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) has allocated a total RM89.7 million over the past two years to 766 Rumah Ibadat Bukan Islam (RIBI), including temples, shrines and churches, to promote unity and harmony in Malaysia’s multiracial society. During the Dewan Rakyat’s question-and-answer session today, its minister Nga Kor Ming said from… Continue reading KPKT disburses RM89.7 mil to non-Muslim houses of worship

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has described the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) as a guiding framework to help Malaysians navigate increasingly complex global challenges, including economic uncertainties and climate change. Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said the 13MP, themed ‘Melakar Semula Pembangunan’ (Redesigning Development), represents a renewed national effort to achieve… Continue reading 13MP to guide Malaysia through global challenges, says PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR: The government will intensify tourism development under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) by establishing Special Tourism Investment Zones (STIZ), preserving heritage sites, and enhancing rural homestays. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim revealed the sector’s strong recovery, with foreign tourist expenditure hitting RM102.2 billion in 2024. “Tourism Investment Zones in Johor, Melaka, Negeri… Continue reading Malaysia tourism growth under 13MP with new investment zones

KUALA LUMPUR: The newly passed Cross-Border Insolvency Bill 2025 is set to enhance investor confidence and align Malaysia with international business practices, according to Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said. The bill, approved by a majority voice vote in the Dewan Rakyat on July 29, will… Continue reading Malaysia’s cross-border insolvency bill to boost investor confidence

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government has formed the Sabah Law Reform Advisory Council (SLRAC) to strengthen governance and drive legal reforms in the state. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the council will modernise Sabah’s legal framework to better serve its people. “The state government welcomes SLRAC’s recommendations, which will lay the foundation for… Continue reading Sabah forms Law Reform Advisory Council for legal modernisation

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Health (MOH) has introduced a mandatory requirement for contract medical officers transitioning to permanent roles to select at least one placement option in Sabah or Sarawak via the e-Placement 2.0 system. This move aims to bridge the healthcare workforce disparity between Peninsular Malaysia and the Borneo states. Health Minister Datuk… Continue reading Sabah, Sarawak now mandatory for medical officer placements – MOH

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia’s ageing trend continues to accelerate, with 12 states now classified as ageing, according to the latest data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM). Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin confirmed that a state is considered ageing when individuals aged 65 and above exceed seven per cent of its total population.… Continue reading Malaysia’s ageing population rises with 12 states now classified as elderly

JOHOR BAHRU: The Malaysian government has outlined ambitious digital transformation plans, including the introduction of MyDigital ID as a secure verification method for online public services. Through GovTech, upgrades will extend to the judicial system, including the Syariah Court, as part of nationwide improvements. Civil servants will receive intensive training in digital skills and artificial… Continue reading Malaysia’s digital transformation plans for 2030 unveiled

PETALING JAYA: The government will review the mandatory retirement age as part of wider efforts to adapt to the country’s transition into an ageing nation, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced in Parliament. “To increase the participation of senior citizens, the Orang Asli, and persons with disabilities (PWD) in the labour market, adequate support… Continue reading 13MP: Govt to review retirement age, address ageing

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia will enhance the capabilities of its defence and security assets, as well as personnel capacity, under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) through the adoption of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI). The government aims to build a future-ready, integrated and agile security force to safeguard national stability and prosperity in the face… Continue reading 13MP: Malaysia boosts defence, security with AI

PETALING JAYA: The government has set a target to reduce the proportion of foreign workers in Malaysia from the current 15% to 10% by 2030, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced in Parliament during the tabling of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP). “To achieve this, the Multi-Tier Levy Mechanism will be more comprehensively enforced… Continue reading 13MP: Govt to cut foreign workers, elevate TVET

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the tabling of 13MP at the parliament, today. – Bernama pic PETALING JAYA: The government will move to standardise wages across sectors and improve social protection for all categories of workers, including those in the gig economy, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced in Parliament. As part… Continue reading 13MP: Govt standardises wages, protects gig workers

PETALING JAYA: The government will table a National Climate Change Bill and introduce a National Adaptation Plan under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) to regulate Malaysia’s climate response and strengthen national preparedness against the impacts of global warming. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the reforms reflect Malaysia’s serious commitment to preserving the health… Continue reading 13MP: Malaysia to table climate change bill, launch national plan for climate resilience

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) is reinforcing state-level initiatives to support the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS), ensuring alignment with national objectives. Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz highlighted the importance of state-driven talent development programmes in complementing federal efforts to enhance Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem. One key example is the… Continue reading MITI boosts state-level semiconductor initiatives under NSS

PETALING JAYA: The government will invest over RM20 billion in flood mitigation projects across Malaysia as part of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), focusing on reducing the risk and impact of floods in high-risk regions. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the investment reflects a proactive strategy to protect lives, livelihoods and infrastructure amid… Continue reading 13MP: RM20 bil for flood mitigation nationwide

KUALA LUMPUR: Locality-based placement is a key factor in deploying new teachers, particularly for graduates from Sabah, Sarawak, and the Orang Asli community, said Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek. The approach aims to allow teachers to serve near their hometowns while enhancing rural education development. Fadhlina clarified that final placements depend on actual vacancies and subject… Continue reading Locality-based teacher placements prioritise Sabah, Sarawak, and Orang Asli graduates

PETALING JAYA: The government will be introducing the KASIH Keluarga Negara national agenda to strengthen family institutions. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the agenda includes strengthening the role of men as leaders, protectors, defenders, educators, and primary breadwinners of the family. To help support the rise of women entering the workforce to 60%,… Continue reading 13MP: Empowering families and vulnerable groups through social and economic reforms