New water tariff rates in Melaka effective Aug 1 for sustainable supply

MELAKA: Syarikat Air Melaka Berhad (SAMB) has implemented new water tariff rates effective August 1 to ensure the sustainability and stability of the state’s water supply system. The adjustment aims to prepare for future challenges while minimising the impact on domestic users. In a statement, SAMB clarified that the revised rates would not burden the… Continue reading New water tariff rates in Melaka effective Aug 1 for sustainable supply

‘Introduce diversion policy for children with minor violations’

PETALING JAYA: The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) has urged the government to swiftly introduce a formal diversion policy for children in conflict with the law, following the high-profile case of a 14-year-old student remanded for assaulting a teacher. The student, who was reprimanded for skipping a physical education class, allegedly punched and threatened… Continue reading ‘Introduce diversion policy for children with minor violations’
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MOH inspects 281,000 premises under Op Selamat Papa to curb smoking

KUALA LUMPUR: The Health Ministry (MOH) has inspected 281,381 premises nationwide under Op Selamat Paru-Paru (Op Selamat PaPa) since its launch on October 1, 2024. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad revealed that 459 investigation papers were opened under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852). Of these cases, 340… Continue reading MOH inspects 281,000 premises under Op Selamat Papa to curb smoking

MACC boosts forensic probes, asset recovery in 13MP anti-corruption push

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) will intensify its crackdown on corruption, financial leakages, and power abuse by upgrading operational tools, deepening forensic capabilities, and accelerating asset recovery. Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki confirmed the move aligns with the governance reforms highlighted in Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).… Continue reading MACC boosts forensic probes, asset recovery in 13MP anti-corruption push

Plan to uplift Orang Asli raises broader concerns

PETALING JAYA: As the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) offers fresh pledges to uplift the Orang Asli, long-time advocate for the community Dr Colin Nicholas is urging the government to move beyond familiar rhetoric and deliver concrete reforms, especially on land rights. The Centre for Orang Asli Concerns coordinator welcomed the inclusion of Orang Asli issues… Continue reading Plan to uplift Orang Asli raises broader concerns
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EAIC backs 13MP focus on integrity and governance reforms

PUTRAJAYA: The Enforcement Agency Integrity Commission (EAIC) has welcomed the government’s strong focus on integrity, abuse of power, and financial leakage in the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP). The commission highlighted its alignment with these goals as a key oversight body for enforcement agencies. EAIC chairman Tan Sri Dr Ismail Bakar praised the government’s commitment to… Continue reading EAIC backs 13MP focus on integrity and governance reforms

Supply chain bane for vegetable farmers

PETALING JAYA: Inflation may have eased to 1.1% in June 2025 but vegetable prices are still rising, highlighting persistent bottlenecks in the supply chain and the complex role of intermediaries in shaping food costs. Key produce such as red chillies, cucumbers and French beans recorded steady month-on-month price increases despite overall deflation in the vegetable… Continue reading Supply chain bane for vegetable farmers
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Selangor keeps water tariff at RM6.50 for domestic users

SHAH ALAM: The Selangor government has confirmed that domestic water tariffs for households consuming up to 20 cubic metres per month will remain unchanged at 65 sen per cubic metre, with the minimum charge staying at RM6.50. Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari stated that this decision follows the February 2024 adjustment and aligns with… Continue reading Selangor keeps water tariff at RM6.50 for domestic users

Raja Muda of Selangor honours entrepreneurs at PLATS Awards Night

KLANG: Raja Muda of Selangor, Tengku Amir Shah Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, graced the Platform Selangor (PLATS) Awards Night (MAPS) to recognise the achievements of local entrepreneurs. The event highlighted the success of participants in the U-PLATS Digital and U-PLATS Halal programmes. Accompanied by Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari and other dignitaries, Tengku… Continue reading Raja Muda of Selangor honours entrepreneurs at PLATS Awards Night

Gunung Semanggol bush fires extinguished after 23 hectares razed

GUNUNG SEMANGGOL: Firefighters successfully brought under control a bush fire that destroyed 23.47 hectares in Kg Tersusun Tebuk Panchor, Gunung Semanggol, Bagan Serai. The blaze, which started on Thursday, was contained after a two-day operation involving ground and aerial firefighting efforts. Perak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Operations Division assistant director Sabarodzi Nor Ahmad confirmed… Continue reading Gunung Semanggol bush fires extinguished after 23 hectares razed

KL Scouts key to strengthening social ecosystem says Dr Zaliha

KUALA LUMPUR: The Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur Scouts Movement (KLScouts) has significant potential as a strategic partner in reinforcing the city’s social ecosystem, according to Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa. She emphasised that the extensive network and experience of the Scouts Association of Malaysia (PPM) can… Continue reading KL Scouts key to strengthening social ecosystem says Dr Zaliha

‘Trade deal unlikely to ease cost of living’

PETALING JAYA: The reduction in US tariffs on Malaysian exports is a win for trade, but it would not ease the cost of living for consumers anytime soon, said the Federation of Malaysian Consumers Association (Fomca). Its president Dr Saravanan Thambirajah pointed out that domestic policies, not foreign tariffs, are what shape household expenses. He… Continue reading ‘Trade deal unlikely to ease cost of living’
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Emphasis on TVET in 13MP a game-changer

PETALING JAYA: The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) underscores the government’s renewed push to elevate Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a national game-changer, but while policy ambitions run high, fresh graduates are watching with cautious optimism. Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Massila Kamalrudin said the TVET focus reflects a serious… Continue reading Emphasis on TVET in 13MP a game-changer
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‘Reform needed to support education facilities for autistic children’

PETALING JAYA: Building dedicated schools for autistic children is a positive step but real inclusion requires transforming the education system as a whole, not just adding new infrastructure, said child rights advocate Srividhya Ganapathy. She said the government plan to establish autism-specific education facilities in every state marks growing recognition of diverse learning needs. She… Continue reading ‘Reform needed to support education facilities for autistic children’
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Reduced levy to take effect on Aug 8: Minister

PETALING JAYA: The reduced tariffs on Malaysian exports will take effect on Aug 8 following the conclusion of negotiations between both countries, said International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz. He said both governments are expected to issue a joint statement this weekend to formalise the agreement, which he described… Continue reading Reduced levy to take effect on Aug 8: Minister
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Firefighters save 1,300 homes in Tawau village blaze

TAWAU: A rapid response by firefighters prevented a major disaster in Kampung Kurnia Jaya today, saving 1,300 houses from destruction despite 26 homes being lost in the fire. The blaze broke out in the morning, prompting an immediate emergency deployment. Tawau Fire and Rescue Station operations officer Madzlan Sharman confirmed that the alarm was raised… Continue reading Firefighters save 1,300 homes in Tawau village blaze

Egg prices stable after subsidy removal in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: Checks reveal no major price increases for eggs following the restructuring of subsidies. The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living’s Price Catcher app indicates stable prices for Grade A, B, and C eggs, ranging from RM10.40 to RM12.60 in supermarkets. Rafiah Rahmat, a consumer in Johor, expressed hope that the subsidy… Continue reading Egg prices stable after subsidy removal in Malaysia

Melaka boosts tourism and halal hub status under 13MP

MELAKA: The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) is set to elevate Melaka as a top tourist destination and regional halal hub while improving climate resilience and infrastructure. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh emphasized the plan’s role in driving high-impact projects and federal-state collaboration. He welcomed the federal government’s focus on the Special Tourism Investment… Continue reading Melaka boosts tourism and halal hub status under 13MP

i-Mesra platform supports halal certification, says deputy minister

KUALA LUMPUR: The i-Mesra digital platform, designed as a pre-halal reference for entrepreneurs under the Rural and Regional Development Ministry (KKDW), does not conflict with the Malaysian Halal Certification issued by JAKIM, said Deputy Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang. She explained that the platform serves as a facilitator, integrating JAKIM’s guidelines to align with federal halal… Continue reading i-Mesra platform supports halal certification, says deputy minister

Malaysia’s mediation role boosts US tariff talks, says minister

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s mediation in the Cambodia-Thailand ceasefire has strengthened its position in tariff discussions with the United States, according to Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz. “Honestly I don’t know, I didn’t ask… but it definitely helps,“ he said when asked about the diplomatic spillover effects. The ceasefire… Continue reading Malaysia’s mediation role boosts US tariff talks, says minister

Boy dies after falling from 8th floor in Port Klang flats

PORT KLANG: A four-year-old boy died after falling from the eighth floor of a flat in Port Klang earlier today. Police received an emergency call around 8 am. Klang Selatan Police deputy chief Supt Kamalariffin Aman Shah said the boy’s father was at work, and his mother had left to take their second child to… Continue reading Boy dies after falling from 8th floor in Port Klang flats

Investigation panel probes commotion on Port Klang passenger boat

SHAH ALAM: The Malaysian Maritime Department (JLM) has established an investigation committee to determine the cause of a recent commotion aboard a passenger boat in Port Klang. The panel will also assess potential safety standard breaches linked to the incident, which gained widespread attention on social media. The disturbance reportedly occurred around 3.30 pm on… Continue reading Investigation panel probes commotion on Port Klang passenger boat

Johor and Singapore boost cross-border transport cooperation

JOHOR BAHRU: Johor and Singapore are set to deepen their collaboration on cross-border transport to improve public mobility and support regional economic growth. The discussion took place during Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi’s meeting with Singapore’s acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow. Key topics included the progress of the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link,… Continue reading Johor and Singapore boost cross-border transport cooperation

KUSKOP targets RM4 million in SDSI showcase at MITEC

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP) is targeting RM4 million in transaction value during the five-day One District One Industry (SDSI) showcase at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC). Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick said RM3 million is expected from PADANIAGA business matching activities, while RM1 million is projected from… Continue reading KUSKOP targets RM4 million in SDSI showcase at MITEC

Tunku Azizah launches book on dual legal system governing Islamic finance

KUALA LUMPUR: Tengku Ampuan Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah today graced the launch of the book, From Shariah to Statute: Legal and Regulatory Framework of Islamic Finance in Malaysia, which provides a comprehensive overview of Malaysia’s unique dual legal system governing the Islamic finance sector. The book launch was held in conjunction with the… Continue reading Tunku Azizah launches book on dual legal system governing Islamic finance

Anwar’s statesmanship shines brightly in resolving regional conflicts and defending economy

KUALA LUMPUR: Within five days, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has achieved much more than what many leaders can only aspire to do in the field of international politics and global trade. Today was pivotal for the domestic economy as the United States lowered tariffs on Malaysian exports to the country from 25 per… Continue reading Anwar’s statesmanship shines brightly in resolving regional conflicts and defending economy

Malaysia reaffirms unwavering support for Palestine amid UN declaration

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia’s position on Palestine remains firm, with the government continuing to support Palestine’s right to independence and sovereignty, said MADANI Government spokesperson Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. Speaking after a Cabinet meeting, the Communications Minister confirmed that Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan had briefed the Cabinet on the Palestinian issue following a recent United Nations… Continue reading Malaysia reaffirms unwavering support for Palestine amid UN declaration

Malaysia denies US exclusive rare earth deal claims, says Tengku Zafrul

KUALA LUMPUR: Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz has dismissed rumours that the United States sought exclusive rights to Malaysia’s rare earth products. He clarified that no such request was made during recent tariff negotiations. “I don’t know where it is coming from, because there are many speculations. But I… Continue reading Malaysia denies US exclusive rare earth deal claims, says Tengku Zafrul

Turkish yacht captain survives 48-hour swim after sinking near Pulau Yu

KUALA TERENGGANU: The captain of the yacht Daisy will never forget his harrowing experience of swimming in the open ocean for nearly 48 hours to survive after his vessel sank near Pulau Yu last Tuesday. Ahmet Volkan Ata, 52, from Turkiye, said he could only swim and float when exhausted, praying to be spotted by… Continue reading Turkish yacht captain survives 48-hour swim after sinking near Pulau Yu

Felda MD2 pineapples reach global markets, boosting settler incomes

KUALA LUMPUR: The Felda Settlers Development Programme (PPP) for MD2 pineapple cultivation has marked a significant achievement by entering international markets, directly benefiting 3,730 settlers across nine Felda schemes. Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican highlighted Felda’s expanding role beyond oil palm, stating, “Felda has demonstrated a strong… Continue reading Felda MD2 pineapples reach global markets, boosting settler incomes

NanoMalaysia partners with firms to turn agricultural waste into nanofibers

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

EPF studies monthly pension scheme under Malaysia’s 13MP plan

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

Malaysia insists on JAKIM halal standards for US imports

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

Unemployed man gets death penalty for murder of 3-year-old in Langkawi

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

Man found dead near railway tracks was strangled, say Hulu Selangor police

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

US tariff cut boosts Malaysia’s construction and manufacturing sectors

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

Police confirm no foul play in UTM cadet’s death at PULADA

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

Malaysia’s semiconductor and pharma sectors exempt from US tariff

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

US tariff cut to 19%: Tengku Zafrul to explain in Dewan Rakyat

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

Cambodia-Thailand border talks move to Kuala Lumpur next week

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

RM200 million agrofood financing fund launched to boost Malaysia’s food security

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

Former director, company fined RM15,000 for unpaid service tax in Melaka

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

HPPNK 2025 eSports competition draws huge youth turnout in Kota Kinabalu

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

Rumah Idaman Bukit Jelutong project completed, 1,260 units ready

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

500 litres of ammonia spill contained at Perai factory

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

KPKM boosts food security under 13MP with agrofood strategies

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

Penang launches first state-level resilience strategy to combat global disruptions

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

Suspect in cop stabbing tests positive for heroin in Kuala Lumpur

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 Regent pledges to resolve Pontian water disruptions

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

MOE takes firm action against student assaulting teacher in Kajang

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