Category: Local

KUALA LUMPUR: The following are the highlights of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) 2026-2030, themed ‘Melakar Semua Pembangunan” (Redesigning Development), which was tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Parliament today. US President Donald J. Trump has decided to review the tariff rates on Malaysia, with a decision expected by tomorrow at the… Continue reading Key highlights of Malaysia’s 13th development plan 2026-2030

PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today reaffirmed the government’s commitment to provide quality, affordable, and inclusive housing for all Malaysians, with plans to build one million affordable units between 2026 and 2035. “As of 2025, a total of 492,000 housing units have been completed or are under construction by the government,” he… Continue reading 13MP: Govt to build one million affordable homes by 2035

KUALA LUMPUR: The government will prioritise strategic industries within a sustainable blue economy, including integrated fisheries hubs, coastal tourism, and blue bio-based technologies. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasised plans to boost the shipbuilding and ship repair (SBSR) sector by attracting investments to expand shipping capacity and upgrade bunkering infrastructure in key states. “This… Continue reading 13MP: Malaysia’s 13th MP prioritises ports and shipping industry growth

PETALING JAYA: The 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13) outlines bold measures to uplift the Orang Asli community, with a renewed focus on land rights, education and infrastructure development. Among the key initiatives is a review of the Aboriginal Peoples Act 1954 [Act 134], aimed at reinforcing legal protections for land ownership and ensuring that the rights… Continue reading 13MP: Orang Asli rights & education strengthened

PETALING JAYA: The 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13) reinforces the government’s commitment to inclusive development by implementing targeted initiatives across various communities, with a strong focus on education, entrepreneurship and infrastructure. The Gate to Global (GTG) programme will be further expanded to empower Bumiputera entrepreneurs, offering support in export matchmaking, capacity building, product development, and digital… Continue reading RMK13: Inclusive economic boost for all communities

PETALING JAYA: The government aims to empower the people, raise social living standards, and ensure access to basic needs such as affordable food, housing, and healthcare, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said in Parliament today. He said these efforts are expected to raise the value-added contribution of the agri-food sub-sector to RM58 billion by… Continue reading 13MP: Govt boosts food security & affordable essentials

KUALA LUMPUR: Every programme under the Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (MITRA) undergoes strict scrutiny by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) to maintain transparency, said Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development Datuk Seri R. Ramanan. Ramanan, who oversees Indian community affairs, stated that applications are screened by the Prime Minister’s Department’s monitoring, finance, and integrity… Continue reading MITRA programmes scrutinised by PMO for transparency – Ramanan

PETALING JAYA: The government will allocate RM67 billion towards the education sector for the construction of new schools, upgrading of dilapidated schools (including Kemas), and improving facilities in public higher education institutions. Tabling the 13th Malaysia Plan (MP13) in Dewan Rakyat today, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government aims to achieve a… Continue reading 13MP: RM67 billion for education, quality & access boost

PETALING JAYA: The government will expand various aid initiatives, including cash assistance, affordable food programmes and utility subsidies, to help Malaysians cope with the rising cost of living. Presenting the 13th Malaysia Plan (MP13) in the Dewan Rakyat today, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said under the Payung Rahmah initiative, programmes such as Jualan… Continue reading 13MP: Govt boosts Rahmah aid, STR, SARA for living costs

PETALING JAYA: The government is targeting 98% 5G coverage across residential, industrial, and rural areas by 2030 to support the nationwide adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the tabling of the 13th Malaysia Plan. “This isn’t just about infrastructure. it’s about building the digital backbone that enables Malaysians… Continue reading 13MP: 98% 5G by 2030 for AI & Digital Trust

PETALING JAYA: The government will prioritise large-scale infrastructure development under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) to strengthen regional connectivity and drive planned growth across the country, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said in Parliament today. Among the key projects identified are major rail and road developments, including initiatives on both the east and west… Continue reading 13MP: Malaysia boosts infrastructure for connectivity

GEORGE TOWN: A 32-year-old coffee shop assistant and a 37-year-old woman denied charges of deliberately setting fire to a local restaurant last week. Khoo Teng Chi and Joanne Lim entered their not-guilty pleas at the Sessions Court before Judge Irwan Suainbon after the charge was read in Mandarin. The duo allegedly used firecrackers to ignite… Continue reading Two charged with setting fire to Penang restaurant in RM34k damage case

THE government will roll out a national digital identity system and accelerate the digitisation of public services as part of broader reforms to improve efficiency and transparency, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today. Speaking in Parliament during the tabling of the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13), Anwar said the MyDigital ID will serve as… Continue reading 13MP: PM targets 95% digital federal services by 2030

KUANTAN: Koperasi Serbausaha Makmur Berhad (Kosma) has begun distributing RM32.538 million in dividends for the financial year 2024 to its 1,495 members. Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail announced that the payout includes RM23.97 million from plantation units, bringing the total dividend disbursement to RM56.508 million. Wan Rosdy revealed that Kosma recorded… Continue reading Kosma distributes RM32.54m dividend to 1,495 members in 2024

PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the imposition of 25% US tariffs on Malaysian goods has been postponed, with a revised rate to be announced tomorrow (Aug 1). He said this followed a phone conversation with US President Donald Trump earlier today, during which the issue was discussed in the spirit and… Continue reading 25% US tariffs on hold, new rate to be announced tomorrow

KUALA LUMPUR: The government has pledged to strengthen the rights of the Orang Asli community through proposed amendments to the Aboriginal Peoples Act 1954 (Act 134). Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi outlined seven key areas of focus: land, education, health, economy, leadership, infrastructure, and culture. Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as… Continue reading Orang Asli rights enhanced under revised Aboriginal Peoples Act

PETALING JAYA: The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) will require a total investment of RM611 billion, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced in Parliament. Tabling the 13MP, today, he said the federal government is expected to contribute RM430 billion through its development allocation, while government-linked companies (GLCs) and government-linked investment companies (GLICs) will provide RM120… Continue reading RM611 billion needed to drive 13th Malaysia Plan: Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Finance (MOF) has warned the public against falling victim to scams falsely claiming to facilitate registration for the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) aid initiative. Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan clarified that no registration is required, as eligibility is automatically determined using MyKad data. Amir Hamzah stated, “The… Continue reading Avoid SARA aid registration scams warns finance minister

PETALING JAYA: United States President Donald Trump has confirmed his attendance at the 2025 Asean Summit in October, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said. Anwar said Trump conveyed this during a phone call earlier this morning. The confirmation comes after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had previously suggested Trump’s potential participation in the… Continue reading Trump confirms attendance at Asean Summit: PM Anwar

JOHOR BAHRU: The Johor royal family gathered today for a solemn ceremony at the Johor Royal Mausoleum to mark Hari Hol, commemorating the late Sultan Iskandar. The event was led by Regent of Johor Tunku Mahkota Ismail, accompanied by key members of the royal household. The visit formed part of annual traditions honouring past Johor… Continue reading Johor Regent visits royal mausoleum for Hari Hol commemoration

IPOH: The Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, attended the state-level Warriors’ Day Celebration 2025 at Dataran Bangunan Perak Darul Ridzuan. The event was also graced by the Raja Muda of Perak, Raja Jaafar Raja Muda Musa, and the Raja Di Hilir of Perak, Raja Iskandar Dzurkarnain Sultan Idris Shah. His Royal Highness arrived at… Continue reading Sultan Nazrin attends Warriors’ Day 2025 in Perak

PETALING JAYA: Women’s rights group Sisters in Islam (SIS) has officially removed the word ‘Islam’ from its public name following advice from the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah. Its executive director, Rozana Isa, said the decision was made during an extraordinary general meeting on 11 July, and the group will now go by… Continue reading SIS removes ‘Islam’ from name after Selangor Sultan’s advice, stands firm on women’s rights

PETALING JAYA: The Defence Ministry is currently progressing with the procurement of several high-priority strategic defence assets including warships, drones, fighter jets, and air defence systems, while implementing new oversight mechanisms to prevent a repeat of past project leakages such as the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) controversy. In a written reply to Datuk Dr Ahmad… Continue reading Mindef updates its oversight, defence procurement measures: Khaled Nordin

PUTRAJAYA: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim and Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah graced the 2025 Warriors’ Day celebration at Dataran Pahlawan Negara today. The event, organised by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), showcased a static parade with participation from security forces and veterans. The ceremony began with the national anthem and a 21-gun salute. His Majesty… Continue reading King and queen honour heroes at 2025 warriors day parade

SIBU: Aerial water bombing operations have successfully slowed the spread of a 105-hectare bushfire in Mukah, according to the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM). Mukah Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) chief Nicholas Belulin said the operation was conducted using an Mi-171 helicopter equipped with an underslung water bombing system. “A total of four water… Continue reading Water bombing slows 105-hectare bushfire in Mukah

JOHOR BAHRU: Johor and Singapore have deepened their public health cooperation following high-level discussions between Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and Singapore’s Health Minister Ong Ye Kung. The meeting, held in Singapore, focused on strengthening healthcare systems, workforce development, and cross-border health initiatives. Onn Hafiz highlighted the importance of data sharing and mutual… Continue reading Johor and Singapore enhance public health cooperation in strategic talks

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia has taken a major step in strengthening its education system with the passing of the Education (Amendment) Bill 2025, which makes secondary education compulsory for all Malaysian children. Tabled by Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, the bill was passed in the Dewan Rakyat late last night after being debated by 34 Members of… Continue reading Secondary education now mandatory in Malaysia

PUTRAJAYA: The government has announced a restructuring of chicken egg subsidies, effective tomorrow (August 1), as part of a phased and targeted approach to enhance sustainability and impact. The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) stated that the move aligns with efforts to secure supply and stabilise prices. A new category, Special Grade Eggs,… Continue reading Malaysia restructures chicken egg subsidy for sustainability

KUALA LUMPUR: The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) is expected to target sustainable annual GDP growth of 4.0 to 5.0 per cent from 2026 to 2030, according to MBSB Investment Bank (MBSB Research). Key drivers include infrastructure development, domestic consumption, and strategic initiatives like the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will… Continue reading Malaysia targets 4-5% GDP growth under 13MP, says MBSB Research

KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof expressed deep gratitude to Malaysia’s heroes and warriors for their sacrifices in defending the nation’s sovereignty from colonial times to the present. In a Facebook post marking Warriors’ Day 2025, he highlighted the unwavering courage of security and defence personnel. “We will never forget the blood,… Continue reading DPM Fadillah honours national heroes on Warriors Day 2025

PUTRAJAYA: The 2025 National Farmers, Breeders and Fishermen’s Day (HPPNK) will spotlight Malaysia’s agricultural transformation, debunking outdated perceptions of the sector as traditional or low-income. Held from August 1 to 3 at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), the event will feature modern farming technologies like drones, robotics, and IoT. Ministry of Agriculture and Food… Continue reading HPPNK 2025 highlights modern agriculture evolution in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is strengthening ties with Vietnam in the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector to boost bilateral tourism and high-end business travel. Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing recently met with Viettours, a leading Vietnamese travel company, to discuss potential collaborations. Tiong highlighted Malaysia’s robust infrastructure, diverse convention… Continue reading Malaysia and Vietnam boost MICE cooperation for tourism growth

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has pushed for immediate reforms in global institutions, particularly the United Nations (UN), outlining three specific proposals to enhance multilateral cooperation. Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul emphasised the need to institutionalise dialogue between the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the UN Security Council to integrate parliamentary perspectives in peace and security… Continue reading Malaysia urges UN reform for global peace and justice

KUALA LUMPUR: The Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) will host the 14th SSM National Conference (SSMNC) on August 19-20, 2025, at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre and online. This year’s theme, “Leading Governance for Sustainable Growth,“ highlights the role of strong governance in fostering long-term business resilience. SSM CEO Datuk Nor Azimah Abdul Aziz said,… Continue reading 14th SSM National Conference 2025 focuses on governance and sustainability

KUALA LUMPUR: The Dewan Rakyat’s spotlight today falls on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as he tables the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), a strategic blueprint guiding the nation’s development from 2026 to 2030. The session follows the Minister’s Question Time and oral question segment, commencing at 10 am. Anwar, who also serves as Finance… Continue reading PM Anwar tables 13MP in Dewan Rakyat today for Malaysia’s 2026-2030 roadmap

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (MITRA) has secured approval for three key programmes under the Socioeconomic Development Programme for the Indian Community (PPSMI), with a total allocation of RM21.25 million. Deputy Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Seri R Ramanan confirmed the funding breakdown. The Private Kindergarten Early Education Subsidy Programme will receive… Continue reading MITRA allocates RM21.25m for Indian community education and dialysis support

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia and Vietnam are prepared to deepen bilateral relations and expand strategic cooperation, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced. The commitment follows a phone discussion with Vietnamese Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính, focusing on shared priorities in trade, innovation, and regional stability. Anwar noted Vietnam’s readiness to send a ministerial delegation to… Continue reading Malaysia and Vietnam agree to boost strategic cooperation, says PM Anwar

SHAH ALAM: The Kita Selangor Rail project has entered a crucial phase, focusing on finalising financing strategies and securing investment partners. Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari stated that this step ensures the rail network’s sustainable implementation for public benefit. “The goal of this rail project is to create a modern, seamless, and user-friendly… Continue reading Kita Selangor Rail project advances with financing and investment plans

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) will roll out a transformative Public Cleansing Reform under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), aiming to modernise national cleaning standards. Housing Minister Nga Kor Ming announced the initiative ahead of the plan’s tabling in Parliament, highlighting tech-driven upgrades like dust-free roads and electric cleaning vehicles.… Continue reading KPKT to launch public cleansing reform under 13MP for cleaner Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) participated in a diplomatic military delegation invited to inspect the contested Anlong Veng-Phnom An Ma (Chong An Ma) zone along the Cambodia-Thailand border. The visit underscores Malaysia’s role in promoting regional security and transparency among ASEAN nations. The MAF stated in a social media post that the delegation… Continue reading Malaysian Armed Forces join diplomatic visit to Cambodia-Thailand border

PUTRAJAYA: The federal government is targeting RM367.8 billion in investments and over 412,000 job opportunities through the Strategic Development Plan for the Northern Corridor Economic Region 2024-2030, said Economy Acting Minister Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan. He said the plan, to be carried out by the Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA), aims to drive economic… Continue reading Strategic plan to drive growth in northern border area

GOMBAK: The Housing and Local Government Ministry has secured a RM125 million funding injection to revive the long-delayed Residensi Hektar Gombak project, a major breakthrough for the 2,400 homeowners who have waited years for their affordable homes. Launched in 2018 under the Residensi Wilayah programme, the project was developed by Hektar Aneka Sdn Bhd but… Continue reading RM125m secured to revive affordable housing project

IPOH: A lorry driver has been fined RM300 for obstructing a Fire and Rescue Department vehicle responding to an emergency along Jalan Ipoh–Kuala Lumpur. The incident, captured in a viral video, showed the fire truck struggling to overtake the lorry, which failed to give way despite its siren being activated. Kampar police chief Supt Mohamad… Continue reading Lorry driver fined RM300 for blocking fire truck in Ipoh