Category: Local

KUALA LUMPUR: The government is currently collecting forestry data from all state governments for submission to the Food and Agriculture Organisation next year. Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani urged state governments to provide accurate and up-to-date information on their forest activities to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability. A… Continue reading Malaysia collects state forestry data for FAO submission next year

KOTA BHARU: The Royal Malaysia Police will continue strengthening border control measures at the Kelantan-Thailand border to combat smuggling activities. Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail confirmed close cooperation between PDRM and various enforcement agencies for more effective border security. He expressed confidence in Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat’s enforcement capabilities… Continue reading PDRM strengthens Kelantan-Thailand border control to combat smuggling

BARAM: Tonnes of emergency supplies of food aid are being deployed into remote northern Sarawak for the thousands of rural communities affected by last week’s floods. Sarawak Deputy Minister for Local Government and Housing Datuk Dr Pengguang Manggil said the state welfare and district office were arranging food aid deployments. “Fullscale mobilisation of resources is… Continue reading Thousands of rural folks stranded in flood hit interior Sarawak, authorities deploying tonnes of food aid

SEPANG: The controversy surrounding Kampung Sungai Baru’s redevelopment stems from inadequate risk understanding and poor governance according to Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki. He highlighted that urban planning issues persist due to ineffective approaches that ultimately burden local communities. Azam stated that residents might not have fully comprehended the risks when… Continue reading MACC chief cites poor governance in Kampung Sungai Baru redevelopment

IPOH: A private interpreter in Taiping suffered RM572,130 in losses after being deceived by a syndicate operating a non-existent cryptocurrency investment scam online since August. Taiping police chief ACP Mohamad Nasir Ismail said a report was received from the victim, a woman in her 40s, at 4.19 pm yesterday. Preliminary investigations revealed that the victim… Continue reading Woman loses RM572,130 to crypto scam syndicate

SEREMBAN: Laboratory tests from the Kuala Lumpur Fisheries Biosecurity Centre show biotoxin levels in Port Dickson seawater have dropped below 800 parts per billion. Negeri Sembilan Fisheries Department director Kasim Tawe confirmed the ban on harvesting or consuming mussels and shellfish remains in force pending further monitoring. “The biotoxin levels have been found to have… Continue reading Port Dickson shellfish still unsafe to eat despite biotoxin level drop

KUALA LUMPUR: The halal industry has evolved beyond food and beverages into a comprehensive ecosystem spanning healthcare, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, tourism and Islamic finance, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said the sector reflects a broader commitment to integrity, ethics and faith-based values, making halal an international symbol of… Continue reading Halal is more than a label, it’s an international symbol of trust – PM Anwar

IPOH: The Perak Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) has seized 102 subsidised liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders during a raid on a business premises at Jalan Pantai, Kuala Kurau, near Parit Buntar. Director Datuk Kamaluddin Ismail stated that the 9.34 am raid, conducted under Op Gasak 2025, followed a week of… Continue reading Perak KPDN seizes 102 subsidised LPG cylinders in Op Gasak raid

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has stood firm in defending its halal standards during tariff-related negotiations with the United States, describing the process as complex and challenging, said Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz. He said one of the issues raised was Malaysia’s halal certification, which Washington regarded as a non-tariff barrier.… Continue reading Malaysia stands firm on halal standards in US tariff talks

KUALA LUMPUR: The number of flood evacuees in Sabah has decreased this morning while several rivers in Sarawak continue to remain above their danger levels. Sabah’s flood situation shows positive developments with evacuees at 22 temporary relief centres dropping to 2,602 people from 806 families compared to 3,325 people from 964 families yesterday evening. According… Continue reading Sabah flood evacuees drop as Sarawak rivers remain above danger level

JAKARTA: Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) has been urged to strengthen its ties with overseas institutions, particularly in Indonesia, by developing joint curricula that focus on education, technology, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail, who is also the Chancellor of UniMAP, said that Malaysia and Indonesia are not only neighbours… Continue reading UniMAP urged to strengthen ties with Indonesian universities for curriculum

MUAR: A former technician has been remanded for seven days on suspicion of setting fire to his family home and injuring his father. The Muar Magistrate’s Court granted a remand order against the 32-year-old suspect until next Wednesday to facilitate police investigations. The suspect is also believed to have mental health issues and tested positive… Continue reading Suspect remanded for allegedly torching family home and injuring father

KUALA LUMPUR: Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has urged the public to check their MyKads and ensure the chip is functioning well. According to him, the targeted subsidy for RON95 petrol can only be enjoyed when the MyKad is used for identity verification during refuelling. “If the chip is damaged or unreadable, do… Continue reading Check MyKad chip function for targeted petrol subsidy, says minister

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has agreed in principle to exempt some Palestinian agricultural and food products from customs duties, the Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said. “Malaysia stands firmly behind Palestine to help rebuild its economy and establish the foundations for socio-economic recovery. “We look forward to working closely with… Continue reading Malaysia to exempt Palestinian agricultural products from customs duties

PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), with the consent of the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC), has issued a RM100,000 compound each to Sin Chew Media Corporation Bhd and Sinar Karangkraf Sdn Bhd. In a statement today, MCMC said action was taken against Sin Chew Media after an investigation found the organisation had uploaded… Continue reading Sin Chew fined RM100,000 for flag error, Sinar Harian for wrong info on IGP

KUCHING: A 12-year-old boy was mauled to death by a crocodile while fishing in a river in Samarahan district, southern Sarawak yesterday. The victim, identified as Arif Fahmi Aiman, was casting fishing nets from a boat near the riverbank at Kampung Empila, about 30km from Kuching, when he was dragged into the water. The Sarawak… Continue reading Boy killed by crocodile in Sarawak

PETALING JAYA: The rapid spread of “nudify” deepfakes, which are AI-generated sexualised images that digitally strip victims of their clothing, has sparked alarm among experts, who warn of its dangerous ease, devastating impact and weak safeguards against abuse. Universiti Malaysia Kelantan Institute for AI and Big Data director Dr Muhammad Akmal Remli said the latest… Continue reading Spike in use of nudify deepfakes raises concern

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has formally invited Thailand’s new Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to visit Malaysia following his official assumption of duties. Anwar extended the invitation during a telephone conversation with his Thai counterpart earlier today. The proposed visit represents a significant effort to reinforce the close relationship between these neighbouring… Continue reading PM Anwar invites Thai PM Anutin to visit Malaysia to strengthen ties

PETALING JAYA: The first 48 hours after discovering a sexualised deepfake could decide whether victims suffer lasting trauma or begin recovery, experts say. Malaysian Psychological Association president and psychologist Prof Dr Shazli Ezzat Ghazali said victims often experience an immediate wave of shock, fear and shame. “The trauma could resemble post-traumatic stress, where victims feel… Continue reading ‘First 48hrs crucial for victims’

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is accelerating efforts to transform its cities into smart, sustainable and people-centric spaces through artificial intelligence. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said AI is revolutionising how cities are planned, developed and managed as part of Malaysia’s goal to become an AI Nation by 2030. The ministry is collaborating with… Continue reading Malaysia accelerates smart city transformation with AI initiatives

KOTA KINABALU: The chief warden of the Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Agama Tun Datu Mustapha’s hostel in Papar told the Coroner’s Court today that initially the school had no knowledge of the story “kalau aku touch-touch, kau berdarah’ (if I touch you, you will bleed), which was allegedly said by ‘Kak M’ to Zara Qairina Mahathir.… Continue reading Zara Qairina accused of mocking Kak M’s sister words ‘if I touch you, you’ll bleed’ – Witness

KULAI: Police have arrested a 32-year-old local man suspected of molesting a 10-year-old girl in a public toilet at Jalan Jambu Air, Taman Iris last Sunday. Kulai District Police chief ACP Tan Seng Lee said the incident occurred at about 7.30 pm when the victim, who is also the complainant’s granddaughter, was in the toilet… Continue reading Police arrest man for molesting girl in Kulai public toilet

PETALING JAYA: Fully banning foreign freelancers is neither realistic nor desirable in today’s digital economy, with experts urging Malaysia to adopt “smart regulation” that balances openness with protection for local talent. Universiti Teknologi Mara Economics and Financial Studies senior lecturer Dr Mohamad Idham Md Razak said Asean’s push for seamless mobility and digital trade makes… Continue reading Do not impose full ban on foreign freelancers, govt urged

PETALING JAYA: Sabah Umno and Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin has rubbished RSNB-GiE, describing it as “pure political rhetoric” with no legal or public backing. He said while Malaysia respects freedom of speech, the declaration in Melbourne on Sept 13 does not represent the will of Sabahans. “We respect freedom of… Continue reading ‘Self-declared regime devoid of legal standing’

PETALING JAYA: Police recorded 1,300 cases of sexual crimes – including rape, incest, molestation and harassment – between January and April this year involving individuals aged 18 and above. Women, Family and Community Development Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad said the figures raised serious concerns about public health and moral values among today’s… Continue reading Alarming rise in sexual crimes sparks call for action

PETALING JAYA: The self-styled Republic of Sabah North Borneo Government-in-Exile (RSNB-GiE), recently declared in Melbourne, has no legal basis and could even be considered treason, a constitutional expert has warned. International Islamic University Malaysia constitutional law expert Assoc Prof Datuk Dr Wan Ahmad Fauzi Wan Husain said the group’s claim has “zero legal standing” under… Continue reading ‘Govt-in-exile’ group may incite unrest, undermine unity: Expert

PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said parliamentary Speakers hold a decisive role in safeguarding democracy, adding that their authority must be exercised with wisdom to ensure accountability and healthy debate. Speaking at the 46th Asean Inter-Parliamentary Assembly yesterday, he said parliament must reflect the will of the people. He cautioned that unchecked… Continue reading Parliamentary Speaker role safeguards democracy: PM

KUALA LUMPUR: The close relationship between Malaysia and Vietnam will serve as a catalyst for strengthening the ASEAN region according to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Anwar stated in a Facebook post that his meeting with Vietnam’s National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man confirmed both countries’ commitment to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, energy,… Continue reading Malaysia-Vietnam ties catalyst for ASEAN strengthening, says PM

PASIR MAS: The Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security Complex (ICQS) in Rantau Panjang recorded a total of 37,413 border movements between September 12 and 16. Deputy commander of the Rantau Panjang Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) Bakri Sulaiman stated that 16,704 of these movements were inbound, while 20,709 were outbound. He noted that the… Continue reading Rantau Panjang ICQS records 37,413 border movements in five days

KUALA LUMPUR: Hikers around the federal capital must exercise extreme caution and remain alert to current weather conditions during outdoor activities. Kuala Lumpur Police Internal Security and Public Order Department chief SAC Khalid Saion stated that unstable weather significantly increases landslide and water surge risks in popular hilly areas. “Rain and thunderstorms pose serious dangers… Continue reading Hikers urged to check weather conditions amid landslide risks

PUTATAN: The Sabah Health Department has detected no infectious disease cases among flood victims transferred to temporary relief centres following recent floods and landslides. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad confirmed that only common non-infectious illnesses were reported and promptly treated by healthcare personnel at the centres. “Although no infectious disease outbreaks have been… Continue reading No infectious diseases detected at Sabah flood relief centres

KOTA KINABALU: The head warden of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Agama Tun Datu Mustapha in Papar testified that the term ‘MA’ used among hostel students refers to Mesyuarat Asrama, meaning a group meeting. Azhari Abd Sagap clarified that such meetings involve multiple students rather than individual questioning sessions where someone might be singled out. The thirty-one-year-old… Continue reading Head warden explains ‘MA’ term in Zara Qairina inquest testimony

KUALA LUMPUR: The National Higher Education Fund Corporation has confirmed that its loan repayment exemption for first-class honours graduates remains fully operational. PTPTN chairman Datuk Seri Norliza Abdul Rahim stated that the incentive applies to all borrowers who graduated with first-class bachelor’s degrees from 2019 onward. She emphasised that the exemption is available to graduates… Continue reading PTPTN confirms first-class graduate loan exemption still in effect

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has formally requested an additional Haj quota from the Saudi Arabian government for next year’s pilgrimage season. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar confirmed that an official letter had been sent to Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Haj and Umrah Dr Tawfiq Fawzan Al-Rabiah. Malaysia’s current Haj… Continue reading Malaysia requests additional Haj quota from Saudi Arabia for next year

SEPANG: Malaysia and China are enhancing regional trade through a strategic cargo partnership that positions Kuala Lumpur International Airport as a leading regional hub to accelerate economic growth. Transport Minister Anthony Loke stated both countries have deepened cooperation through a twin hub model linking KLIA with Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport. He explained the partnership originated… Continue reading Malaysia and China boost cargo partnership for KLIA regional hub

KUALA LUMPUR: A former GISB Holdings Sdn Bhd accountant faced 40 charges of money laundering involving more than RM3.8 million in the Sessions Court today. Mohd Khushairi Osman, 54, pleaded not guilty to all charges read before Judge Azrul Darus. This case follows his previous charge at the Shah Alam Sessions Court for 54 counts… Continue reading Former GISBH accountant faces 40 money laundering charges over RM3.8 million

KOTA KINABALU: Entrepreneurs and cooperatives affected by floods and landslides can apply for loan restructuring or a repayment deferment of up to six months. Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Datuk Ewon Benedick confirmed the nationwide policy applies whenever a district or state is declared disaster-affected. His ministry oversees seven financing agencies including Bank Rakyat,… Continue reading Disaster-hit entrepreneurs and cooperatives can apply for loan deferral

TAIPING: The Semiconductor Industry and Technology Carnival (KITES) 2025 will strengthen the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) ecosystem in producing highly skilled workers for the country’s semiconductor industry. Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong said this carnival provides community exposure regarding the industry’s importance in the digital economy and future technology direction.… Continue reading KITES 2025 strengthens TVET role in Malaysia’s semiconductor industry

PUTRAJAYA: Businessman Tan Sri Halim Saad has filed a leave application with the Federal Court to appeal against an appellate court decision that rejected his bid to reinstate a lawsuit against the government and two former ministers. The 72-year-old tycoon seeks to revive his legal action against the government, former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir… Continue reading Halim Saad seeks Federal Court appeal to revive Renong-UEM lawsuit

ALOR GAJAH: Police have arrested a man suspected of stealing Telekom Malaysia cables valued at approximately RM10,000 along Jalan Besar Kemuning in Gadek last Sunday. Acting Alor Gajah District Police chief DSP Azrul Mohamed stated that the incident occurred around 3.10 am during routine crime prevention patrols. A police team noticed a suspicious vehicle and… Continue reading Man arrested for stealing RM10,000 worth of TM cables in Alor Gajah

PUTRAJAYA: The National Registration Department has announced multiple convenient channels for citizens to replace damaged MyKad identification cards. Applications can be submitted at 210 counters nationwide or through the MEKAR Mobile Bus and Van service for added accessibility. Online options include the MyPhone-In telephone line and JPN e-Services platform for digital applications. Applicants must present… Continue reading JPN offers multiple channels for replacing damaged MyKad

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has welcomed the royal decree issued by the Sultan of Selangor regarding the historical significance and future development of Kampung Baru. Anwar stated that the Sultan’s views align completely with the MADANI Government’s commitment to preserving national heritage while ensuring fair development. The government believes every decision… Continue reading Kampung Baru development to respect dignity, rights and history says PM

KUALA LUMPUR: A former supermarket cashier pleaded not guilty at the Sessions Court to 14 charges of criminal breach of trust and money laundering involving RM568,200. Nur Atiqah Asyirah Muhamad Fauzi, 28, faced two counts of misusing a Touch ‘n Go eWallet terminal entrusted to her by the supermarket. She allegedly withdrew RM98,800 in Touch… Continue reading Former cashier claims trial to RM568,200 CBT and money laundering

PUTRAJAYA: The Immigration Department detained 52 foreign workers during a special operation targeting three massage and reflexology centres in Johor Bahru. Director-General Datuk Zakaria Shaaban confirmed that 115 individuals were inspected in the integrated operation conducted yesterday. Those detained included nine foreign men from Indonesia, Myanmar, Bangladesh, and China, along with 43 foreign women from… Continue reading Immigration raids three JB massage centres, detains 52 foreign workers

KUCHING: A special committee is reviewing The Sarawak Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1960 to ensure the law reflects current and future maritime industry needs. Sarawak Minister for Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin stated the ordinance currently grants certain powers to Sarawak including coastal shipping operations within state waters. He expressed the state’s desire for additional… Continue reading Sarawak reviews shipping ordinance to seek more maritime powers