Category: Local

PETALING JAYA: The Digital Ministry is presently drafting an Artificial Intelligence (AI) bill to regulate the fast-evolving technology and combat deepfake videos as well as AI-related crimes, said Minister Gobind Singh Deo. “The legislative draft is currently being refined through a comprehensive and inclusive engagement process involving various stakeholders. “This approach is taken to ensure… Continue reading Digital Ministry drafting AI bill to combat deepfake videos

JOHOR BAHRU: Two enforcement officers were arrested at the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) Complex last night over suspected involvement in a ‘Flying Passport’ misconduct. The practice involves illegally clearing passports without the holders being present. Malaysia Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) BSI CIQ commander Roszita Dim confirmed the arrests,… Continue reading Two enforcement officers arrested at BSI CIQ for passport misconduct

PUTRAJAYA: The Ministry of Education (MOE) has reaffirmed its commitment to a transparent and unbiased investigation into the death of 13-year-old Form One student Zara Qairina Mahathir. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek emphasised the need for all parties to allow the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to conduct a thorough probe without interference. “We now fully hand… Continue reading MOE pledges transparent probe into Form One student’s death

KANGAR: Applications for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes have surged from 25,000 to 229,000 over the past two years, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced. The increase reflects growing awareness of TVET’s career potential, particularly in high-demand fields like welding, artificial intelligence, and robotics. Ahmad Zahid, who chairs… Continue reading TVET applications surge to 229,000 as demand for skilled workers grows

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia will continue engaging with the leaders of Cambodia and Thailand to propose a peace process in response to the border conflict between the two countries, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai had expressed appreciation for his initiative to… Continue reading Malaysia proposes peace process for Cambodia-Thailand border conflict

MUAR: The public has been warned to stay cautious against scam links falsely claiming to offer the RM100 one-off cash assistance under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiative. Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching emphasised that these deceptive links aim to steal personal information. Scammers are using convincing tactics, including fake posters with official-looking elements… Continue reading Beware of fake RM100 SARA scam links warns Deputy Minister

ALOR SETAR: Crimes involving women and children in Kedah have surged, averaging 42 cases a month in the first half of 2025 compared with an average of 16 cases monthly last year, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said. He said sexual crimes were particularly alarming, with children under 18 making up 75 per… Continue reading Kedah sees sharp rise in crimes involving women, children

GEORGE TOWN: Penang Governor Tun Ramli Ngah Talib today said that respect for the institution of the Constitutional Monarchy is a vital foundation in nation-building and ensuring the stability of the nation-state system. He said the monarchy institution was not just a historical legacy, but part of the governance structure that guaranteed a balance between… Continue reading Respect for monarchy key to nation-building, says Penang governor

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged Members of Parliament to maintain a culture of civil and respectful debate in the Dewan Rakyat, steering clear of insults and profanity. Speaking at the 2025 Prime Minister’s Cup Debate Finals, he highlighted the need for constructive discourse in legislative discussions. Anwar expressed admiration for the… Continue reading PM Anwar urges MPs to adopt civil debate, avoid insults in Parliament

MACHANG: Civil servants must uphold discipline and avoid participating in public rallies to set a proper example, said Attorney-General Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar. He emphasised that involvement in such gatherings violates the civil service code of conduct, and department heads may take action against offenders. “Such assemblies actually violate the code of conduct and… Continue reading Civil servants must avoid public rallies, says AG Mohd Dusuki

IPOH: A staggering 51.5% of drug abuse cases recorded in Perak last year involved youths aged between 15 and 39, according to the Malaysian Drug Prevention Association (PEMADAM). Perak PEMADAM chairman Mohd Azlan Helmi revealed that out of 14,534 reported cases, 7,488 involved young individuals, calling the trend alarming. He stressed the need for stronger… Continue reading Over 50% of drug abuse cases in Perak involve youths – PEMADAM

GEORGE TOWN: The Ministry of Finance (MOF) has urged the public to be cautious of fraudulent attempts linked to the one-off RM100 cash assistance under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA). Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying said the assistance does not require any application or registration, as it will be credited directly to all eligible… Continue reading RM100 SARA aid requires no registration, public warned of scams

PETALING JAYA: Danny Sandhu has never played an instrument on stage, nor belted out a ballad beneath the glow of bar lights. But ask any seasoned musician from Malaysia’s club circuit, and his name brings immediate warmth and gratitude. For the past four years, Danny, 65, has quietly taken on a role most wouldn’t expect:… Continue reading When club musicians fall, Danny Sandhu is there to catch them

GEORGE TOWN: The proposed Penang International Financial Centre (PIFC) has reached the engagement stage with Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) and the Securities Commission, marking a key milestone in its development. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow confirmed the progress, noting that the Penang Institute had completed the Expression of Interest (EOI) process earlier this year. “The… Continue reading Penang International Financial Centre in talks with BNM, Securities Commission

DUNGUN: The Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) successfully captured a sun bear that had been wandering near Kampung Padang Ping. The adult male bear, weighing approximately 110 kilogrammes, was caught in a trap set by authorities. Terengganu Perhilitan director Loo Kean Seong confirmed the bear was unharmed and later released into its natural… Continue reading Perhilitan safely captures sun bear in Dungun village

ALOR SETAR: The infrastructure development for the five-season paddy planting programme in the Muda area has started earlier than planned, signalling strong progress in Malaysia’s push for higher rice production. Originally set to begin on Aug 1, contractors have already commenced work on key components, including irrigation upgrades and dam rehabilitation. Muda Agricultural Development Authority… Continue reading Five-season paddy planting infrastructure starts early in Muda area

JOHOR BAHRU: The Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) has successfully relocated two more wild elephants from Kampung Sri Lukut, Kahang, Kluang, to a more suitable habitat. This follows an earlier operation where nine elephants were captured, with four already moved on July 23 and a juvenile sent to Kota Tinggi’s elephant sanctuary for… Continue reading Perhilitan relocates wild elephants from Kluang to reduce human conflict

KUANTAN: A BASE jumper sustained injuries while two others landed safely after veering off course during the BASE Jump Extreme Challenge, part of the Pesta Kuantan 188 festivities. The incident occurred at approximately 5 pm yesterday near the Kuantan 188 tower. Acting district police chief Supt Mohd Adli Mat Daud confirmed that Zainal Chik, 62,… Continue reading BASE jump accident in Kuantan leaves one injured, two safe

KOTA TINGGI: Two motorcyclists were killed in a collision involving a lorry at Km60.5 of Jalan Sungai Rengit early today. The victims, aged 18 and 19, suffered severe head injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene. Kota Tinggi Police chief Supt Yusof Othman said the accident occurred at 1.24 am and involved two Yamaha… Continue reading Two motorcyclists killed in Kota Tinggi road accident

PHNOM PENH: The United Nations has called on Cambodia and Thailand to exercise maximum restraint following a violent border clash that erupted on Thursday. The UN Security Council held an emergency closed-door meeting to address the escalating tensions between the two nations. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged both countries to resolve their differences peacefully. “Exercise… Continue reading UN urges Cambodia and Thailand to show restraint amid border clash

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s new Ambassador to the United States, Tan Sri Muhammad Shahrul Ikram Yaakob, has reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing Malaysia-US relations during a credentials ceremony with President Donald J. Trump at the White House. The Embassy of Malaysia in Washington, D.C., confirmed in a Facebook post that Muhammad Shahrul Ikram presented his Letter… Continue reading Malaysia’s new US ambassador pledges stronger bilateral ties

KUALA LUMPUR: Two foreign companies announced during Malaysia’s overseas trade missions have commenced investments, countering claims that such trips yielded no results. Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz confirmed the progress, highlighting their economic impact. Gul Technologies, secured during the 2024 China trade mission, is constructing a RM350 million Phase… Continue reading Two foreign firms invest RM450m in Malaysia after trade missions

ALOR SETAR: UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has expressed confidence that Kedah residents are prepared for a change in state leadership, emphasising the need for stable governance and leaders committed to public welfare. Speaking at the launch of the 2025 KEDA Rural Youth and Programme Implementation Planning Committee (4P) Convention, he highlighted… Continue reading Kedah ready for leadership change, says Ahmad Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has secured a five-day remand order for an enforcement officer accused of accepting approximately RM8,000 in bribes while stationed at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) arrival counter. Magistrate Zur Azureen Zainalkefli approved the remand application at the Shah Alam Magistrate’s Court, allowing authorities to detain the suspect… Continue reading MACC remands KLIA officer for alleged RM8,000 bribery

MELAKA: The Melaka state government is ramping up efforts to reduce sugar consumption after a 2023 health study found that half of its population is either overweight or obese. State Health, Human Resources and Unity Committee chairman Datuk Ngwe Hee Sem revealed that 33.3% of residents are overweight, while 25.1% are obese—both figures exceeding national… Continue reading Melaka intensifies sugar reduction drive as obesity rates soar

PETALING JAYA: The Kuala Lumpur residence of Tan Sri Mirzan Mahathir, eldest son of former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, was the target of a house-breaking on Wednesday. According to a detailed police report cited by theSun, the incident, which occurred around 5pm, was discovered by a Filipino helper who notified Mirzan’s daughter, Khadijah,… Continue reading Mirzan Mahathir’s home burgled, RM1.8 mil valuables stolen

PETALING JAYA: The Education Ministry is taking serious and proactive steps to prevent fire incidents at school premises following a disturbing rise in fire-related cases over the past few years. According to the Fire and Rescue Department’s annual report, the number of school structure fires increased from 71 cases in 2021 to 152 cases in… Continue reading Ministry taking serious, proactive measures to prevent fires in schools

JOHOR BAHRU: UDA Holdings Berhad (UDA) is enhancing business opportunities for the Bumiputera community through its Kedai Kos Sederhana (KKS) UDA Vista initiative. The project, introduced under the Johor State Housing Development Corporation (PKPJ), provides 62 commercial units at accessible prices starting from RM200,000. Each unit spans approximately 1,200 square feet, featuring a modern and… Continue reading UDA expands Bumiputera business access with KKS UDA Vista initiative

SEREMBAN: The National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2025, conducted by the Institute for Public Health, is now underway with a special focus on Malaysians aged 60 and above. Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni announced that the survey, running from July 22 to September 21, aims to assess elderly health under the ‘ageing… Continue reading NHMS 2025 focuses on elderly health in Malaysia

PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian government has confirmed that no Malaysians were among the passengers and crew of Angara Airlines Flight 2G2311, which crashed in Russia’s Amur Oblast on July 24. The Foreign Ministry issued a statement on Friday, verifying the information through the Malaysian Embassy in Moscow. The ministry expressed deep condolences to the families of… Continue reading No Malaysians on Russian plane crash in Tynda, confirms Wisma Putra

SEREMBAN: The Health Ministry has introduced the Madani Private Hospital Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) 2025 to encourage breastfeeding and lower the prevalence of diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang emphasized the importance of public-private collaboration in supporting nursing mothers. “The core objectives of this tour align with the National Nutrition Policy,… Continue reading Madani BFHI tour promotes breastfeeding in Malaysia

ALOR SETAR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stated that Malaysia is closely monitoring the ongoing conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, emphasizing the need for vigilance despite the country’s stable situation. Anwar highlighted that while leaders from both nations have shown willingness to cease hostilities, Malaysia must remain cautious due to the strategic geopolitical importance… Continue reading Malaysia monitors Thailand-Cambodia conflict closely, says PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR: The Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) has clarified that the appointment of Datuk Seri Wan Suraya Wan Mohd Radzi as Auditor General complies with constitutional and legal provisions, dismissing claims that she should retire. The AGC stated that under Article 105 of the Federal Constitution and subparagraph 1(1) of the First Schedule to the Audit… Continue reading Auditor General appointment valid, no retirement needed says AGC

PUTRAJAYA: The appointment of Datuk Seri Wan Suraya Wan Mohd Radzi as Auditor General is constitutionally valid and does not breach any legal provisions, said Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. Fahmi, who also serves as the MADANI Government spokesperson, stated that Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar clarified the matter… Continue reading Wan Suraya’s appointment as Auditor General is constitutional – Fahmi

SHAH ALAM: The forest fires affecting several areas in Selangor have been successfully contained, according to Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari. However, authorities remain vigilant in monitoring peatland zones due to their heightened fire risk and prolonged extinguishing challenges. “There were three fire incidents, namely in Kuala Kubu Bharu, Kajang and Seri Gombak. But… Continue reading Selangor forest fire under control, peatland monitoring continues

KOTA BHARU: The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) has submitted a request to increase its workforce to enhance enforcement of government policies. Deputy director-general (Enforcement) Aris Mamat highlighted the need for more personnel due to operational challenges. “Last year, we added over 200 members and officers nationwide, and this year we… Continue reading KPDN seeks more officers to boost enforcement efforts nationwide