Category: Local

KUCHING: The air quality at districts in southern Sarawak has deteriorated today, even as more forest fires are flaring up in the state. The Air Pollutant Index (API) reading in Lundu at 8am today had shot up to 125, which is beyond the 100 unhealthy mark, said the Sarawak Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB).… Continue reading Forest fires rage in Sarawak as API readings worsen

JOHOR BAHRU: The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has assured the public that air quality remains safe after two chemical tanker lorries collided on the Second Link bridge yesterday. The incident, which occurred at KM0.8 of the PLUS Expressway, involved a red trailer carrying propylene glycol and a white trailer transporting sodium hypochlorite. Senior… Continue reading Air quality safe after chemical tanker collision on Second Link bridge

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia must strengthen drowning prevention efforts, particularly among children, as drowning remains a preventable public health crisis, according to public health and injury prevention expert Prof Dr Kulanthayan KC Mani. Dr Kulanthayan revealed that an estimated 700 drowning cases occur annually in Malaysia, with 500 involving children under 18. “These figures are not… Continue reading Malaysia must boost drowning prevention efforts, says expert

KUALA LUMPUR: Two foreign men believed to be the masterminds of an armed robbery and housebreaking gang were killed in a shootout with police at Jalan Semerah Padi, Cheras, early this morning. Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) acting director Datuk Fadil Marsus said intelligence indicated the suspects were scouting a new target when police… Continue reading Police kill two robbery gang leaders in Cheras shootout

TIOMAN: For 40 years, Berjaya Tioman Resort has stood as a beacon of hospitality along the South China Sea. Its anniversary marks not just a milestone but a renewed commitment to sustainability, blending luxury with eco-conscious practices. The resort’s evolution includes upgraded facilities and personalised guest experiences, all while prioritising environmental conservation. Since its establishment… Continue reading Berjaya Tioman Resort champions sustainability for 40th anniversary

KUALA LUMPUR: Signify Malaysia is reinforcing its role in supporting Malaysia’s sustainability objectives by introducing advanced smart lighting solutions and forging key industry collaborations. The company, previously known as Philips Lighting, aims to align with the government’s National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act (EECA) 2024. Signify Malaysia president Sukanto… Continue reading Signify Malaysia boosts sustainability with smart lighting innovations

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Plantation and Commodities (KPK) has allocated RM44.83 million for the repair of 131 farm roads in Sabah and Sarawak between 2022 and June 30, 2025. The ministry confirmed that 92 projects in Sabah covered 164.8 kilometres of farm roads, costing RM29.97 million. Meanwhile, 39 projects in Sarawak spanned 90 kilometres,… Continue reading RM44.83 mln spent on farm road repairs in Sabah, Sarawak

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is grappling with a silent liver cancer crisis, with 74% of cases detected at the most advanced stage, where treatment options are limited. The high prevalence of hepatitis B and obesity, both major contributors to liver disease, has put more Malaysians at risk. Consultant General, Hepatobiliary Pancreatic and Liver Surgeon at Sunway… Continue reading Silent liver cancer crisis in Malaysia with 74% late-stage detection

ISTANBUL: The construction of the second batch of three Littoral Mission Ships (LMS) by Turkish defence firm Savunma Teknolojileri Muhendislik (STM) at the Istanbul Shipyard is proceeding as scheduled. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin stated that the first LMS is expected to be launched in April 2026, followed by the second in June… Continue reading Second batch of LMS vessels construction on track, says defence minister

BUTTERWORTH: The RM100 Basic Rahmah Contribution (SARA) aid for Malaysians aged 18 and above should not be politicised, as it provides crucial support for the poor, said Deputy Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Seri R.Ramanan. He criticised those who belittle the assistance, stating that RM100 holds significant value for low-income earners. “For the T20… Continue reading RM100 SARA aid benefits poor, says Ramanan

PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) is intensifying measures to combat ‘counter setting’ activities at the country’s entry points by implementing stricter personnel screening and policy reforms. Director-general Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain stated that the agency is formulating a new policy to ensure only officers with clean disciplinary records are… Continue reading AKPS tightens officer screening to curb counter setting at borders

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed deep sorrow over the plane crash in Russia’s Far East, offering condolences to the grieving families. “I was saddened to learn of the plane crash in Russia’s Far East. My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones,” Anwar said in a… Continue reading PM Anwar expresses condolences over Russia plane crash tragedy

SEPANG: A total of 198 foreign nationals were denied entry at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminals 1 and 2 for failing to meet immigration requirements, including insufficient funds, lack of accommodation bookings, and unclear travel purposes. Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) director-general Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said those barred entry… Continue reading 198 foreigners denied entry at KLIA for failing immigration checks

KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof held separate courtesy meetings with South Korean President’s Special Envoy Kim Young Choon and Romanian Ambassador to Malaysia Nineta BÇŽrbulescu at Parliament today. The discussions focused on strengthening green energy partnerships and sustainable development. Fadillah, who is also Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, said Kim… Continue reading Fadillah meets South Korea envoy, Romania ambassador on green energy

KUALA LUMPUR: The upcoming ‘Turun Anwar’ rally reflects Perikatan Nasional’s (PN) failure to present viable policy alternatives amid claims of economic mismanagement, according to Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim, political secretary to the finance minister. He dismissed opposition criticisms as baseless, citing improving economic indicators. “Growth, inflation, unemployment rates, investment volumes are being demonised because of… Continue reading Turun Anwar rally shows opposition lacks ideas, says Kamil Munim

GEORGE TOWN: The Ministry of Transport (MOT) is working with the Penang City Council (MBPP) to establish an Authorised Automotive Treatment Facility (AATF) in northern Peninsular Malaysia. This initiative aims to tackle the growing problem of abandoned vehicles in Penang, which affects both safety and the environment. Transport Minister Anthony Loke confirmed that discussions were… Continue reading MOT and MBPP to set up vehicle disposal facility in Penang

IPOH: After enduring repeated flash floods and sludge-filled streets, hundreds of residents from four neighbourhoods in Changkat Kinding, Ulu Kinta, may finally see some relief as the operator of a nearby kaolin (white clay) mining site has pledged immediate corrective measures. The affected areas – Taman Kinding Raya, Taman Kinding Permai, Taman Akasia and Taman… Continue reading Clay mine operator pledges action after repeated floods

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for deeper collaboration between the public and private sectors to eradicate hardcore poverty, stressing that targeted interventions must be consistent, inclusive and sustained. Launching the Sejahtera Madani initiative (Malaysia Madani People’s Well-being Initiative) at Kompleks Seri Perdana yesterday, he said while data points to progress in… Continue reading Sejahtera Madani initiative launched to eradicate poverty

KUALA LUMPUR: The government has approved a RM14.39 million grant to the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) for its 2023 operational expenses. Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying confirmed this as the highest amount ever allocated to the commission. “The grant is intended to cover operating expenses, fixed allowance of Suhakam Commissioner, emoluments, operations… Continue reading Govt approves RM14.39 mln grant for Suhakam’s 2023 operations

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has expressed strong support for Turkiye’s efforts to amplify the voices of oppressed communities globally and push for a fair resolution to the Palestinian crisis. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim commended Turkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for his unwavering stance on Palestinian rights and urgent calls for a Gaza ceasefire. Anwar… Continue reading Malaysia backs Turkiye’s push for just Palestine solution

BUKIT MERTAJAM: Several roads near the Minor Basilica of St Anne will be closed from 9 am Saturday to 2 pm Sunday for the annual St Anne Feast, one of Malaysia’s largest religious gatherings. The closures aim to manage traffic flow as over 100,000 visitors are expected. Seberang Perai Tengah police chief ACP Helmi Aris… Continue reading Road closures in Bukit Mertajam for St Anne Feast this weekend

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism (MYMT) 2026 was officially launched today to reinforce the country’s status as a leading destination for affordable, high-quality healthcare. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad unveiled the campaign under the tagline “Healing Meets Hospitality,” targeting international healthcare travellers with Malaysia’s blend of medical excellence and warm… Continue reading Malaysia targets global medical tourism leadership with MYMT 2026

KUALA LUMPUR: The government’s decision to delay toll rate hikes on several highways aims to ease financial pressure on the B40 group, says Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi. He called for understanding from concession companies, acknowledging the impact on their cash flow while stressing the need for shared responsibility. Nanta said, “From a… Continue reading Toll hike delay eases burden for B40, says Nanta

LABUAN: A senior assistant medical officer has been remanded for four days until July 28, for allegedly abusing his position to award logistics-related work to a company owned by his wife. The Labuan Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), in a statement, said the remand order was issued by Magistrate Kasyfurrahman Abang Ahmad at the Labuan Sessions… Continue reading Senior assistant medical officer in Labuan remanded over power abuse

KUALA LUMPUR: Police have arrested the uncle of a one-year-and-seven-month-old boy who died after being bitten by a dog in Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Buloh. The 19-year-old suspect, an Orang Asli from the Temuan tribe, was detained under Section 31(1)(a) of the Children Act 2001. Sungai Buloh district police chief Supt Mohd Hafiz Muhammad Nor… Continue reading Man arrested over toddler’s death from dog bite in Sungai Buloh

SANDAKAN: Two more officers from a local authority have been remanded for five days to assist in a bribery investigation involving RM200,000 received from contractors since 2022. The suspects, a man and a woman in their 20s and 30s, allegedly facilitated corruption in exchange for repair work contracts. Magistrate Yong Ching Hong granted the Malaysian… Continue reading Sandakan corruption case: Two more local authority officers arrested

KUCHING: A 75-year-old man sustained severe injuries after falling approximately 500 metres while hiking Gunung Api in Mulu National Park. The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Sarawak operations centre received an emergency call at 12.45 pm and immediately dispatched the Mountain Cave Search and Rescue (MOCSAR) team from Marudi Fire and Rescue Station. The… Continue reading Elderly man injured in 500m fall at Mulu National Park

KUALA LUMPUR: Recent government measures aimed at easing financial burdens on Malaysians are expected to provide significant relief to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcements include continued fuel subsidies for RON95 at RM1.99 per litre and a postponement of toll rate increases on 10 major highways. Entrepreneur Development… Continue reading People-centric initiatives boost MSME sector in Malaysia

JOHOR BAHRU: The Malaysian Customs Import and Export Supporting Document System (MyCIEDS) is set to improve transparency and prevent data leaks in import-export documentation. The system also aims to uphold the integrity of customs officers and forwarding agents. Customs deputy director-general Norlela Ismail explained that once documents are uploaded, officers process them based solely on… Continue reading MyCIEDS system enhances transparency in Malaysia import-export docs

KUALA LUMPUR: The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) will summon the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW) and Felcra Berhad to clarify findings in the Auditor General’s Report 2/2025. The hearing follows a briefing by the Auditor General today, highlighting concerns over oil palm plantation procurement. PAC chairman Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin confirmed that the… Continue reading PAC summons KKDW and Felcra over AG’s Report 2/2025

IPOH: The National Archives of Malaysia (ANM) has reaffirmed its commitment to academic research and historical preservation, calling for more contributions from researchers and the public. ANM director-general Datuk Jaafar Sidek Abdul Rahman emphasized the agency’s role in safeguarding national heritage through archival collections and partnerships. “We aim to ensure historical materials remain accessible for… Continue reading National Archives boosts academic research with historical contributions

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Finance (MOF) has clarified that no application is needed for the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) assistance and warned the public against fake messages claiming “SARA for all.” The RM100 aid, announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, will be automatically credited to the MyKad of eligible Malaysians aged 18… Continue reading No application needed for SARA aid, MOF warns of fake messages

KUALA LUMPUR: The Fees (Pengkalan Kubor Ferry) (Validation) Bill 2025 was tabled for its first reading in the Dewan Rakyat today. The bill aims to validate the collection of ferry service fees between Pengkalan Kubor in Malaysia and Takbai in Thailand. Minister of Works Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi confirmed that the second and third… Continue reading Pengkalan Kubor ferry fees validation bill tabled in Dewan Rakyat

GEORGE TOWN: Leakages and misappropriation of public funds not only harm national financial management but also weaken public confidence in government institutions, warns the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC). MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki emphasized that public funds, crucial for national development, must be managed with full accountability. “Misuse and weak internal controls lead… Continue reading MACC warns leakages erode trust in government institutions

MERSING: Bottle caps and discarded boxes are finding new life as creative souvenirs in Mersing, drawing both local and foreign tourists. The Mersing Souvenir House (MSH) initiative, funded by a RM100,000 SejaTi MADANI grant, showcases the town’s identity through marine-themed handicrafts. Manager Ahmad Firdaus Shaik Omar, 43, explained that the project highlights Mersing’s uniqueness with… Continue reading Recycled souvenirs boost tourism in Mersing with eco-friendly crafts

KUALA LUMPUR: The government will not tolerate any negligence that compromises student safety, particularly for those with special educational needs, said Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh. He emphasised that the 2023 incident, where a special needs student was injured, must serve as a crucial reminder of the collective responsibility to maintain safe school environments.… Continue reading No compromise on student safety negligence says deputy minister

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed hope that the upcoming rally this Saturday will proceed peacefully and in an orderly manner. Emphasising constitutional principles and reform, he assured that the government respects democratic expression while prioritising public safety. Anwar’s senior press secretary, Tunku Nashrul Abaidah, stated in the Prime Minister’s Office… Continue reading PM Anwar urges peaceful rally and unity in Malaysia

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia is in active negotiations with the United States to secure a tariff rate below 20 per cent ahead of the scheduled 25 per cent hike set for August 1. Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz confirmed the discussions, stating that an announcement will follow once terms are… Continue reading Malaysia seeks US tariff below 20 pct as talks intensify

KOTA BHARU: The General Operations Force (GOF) seized smuggled cigarettes and subsidised controlled goods worth RM155,000 during raids on a premises and a house in Kampung Kedai Buluh. The operation, conducted on July 21, was part of Op Taring Wawasan Kelantan. GOF Southeast Brigade Commander Datuk Nik Ros Azhan Nik Ab Hamid said the raid… Continue reading GOF seizes RM155k in contraband goods in Kota Bharu raid

KUALA LUMPUR: A man was sentenced to five years in jail while his wife was fined RM18,000 by the Sessions Court after both admitted to abusing their seven-year-old daughter with a durian husk. Judge Mohd Zaki Mohd Salleh ruled that Bunyamin Sukiman, 42, would serve his term from the date of arrest on July 18.… Continue reading Man jailed, wife fined for child abuse with durian husk in KL

PETALING JAYA: The mother of Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matin clarified in court that a WhatsApp message containing the phrase “lantaklah nak hidup ke nak mati” was meant for herself, not her six-year-old son. Ismanira Abdul Manaf, 30, explained that the message was sent to her husband, Zaim Ikhwan Zahari, during a moment of distress while… Continue reading Zayn Rayyan’s mother clarifies WhatsApp message in court

KUALA LUMPUR: The Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (JSJN) is closely tracking the rising trend of vaping among school students, particularly due to concerns over harmful substances like synthetic drugs being mixed into vape liquids. Bukit Aman JSJN director Datuk Hussein Omar Khan confirmed that while isolated, these cases pose serious risks to student safety. Forensic… Continue reading Police monitor vape trend with synthetic drugs among students