Category: Local

KUALA LUMPUR: The new Cooperative Bill is in its final drafting stage and will be tabled in Parliament this December, announced Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick. The legislation will replace the Cooperative Societies Act 1993 to better align with current economic needs and boost Malaysia’s cooperative movement. The ministry and the Cooperative… Continue reading New Cooperative Bill to be tabled in Parliament this December

SEREMBAN: The Negeri Sembilan state government anticipates rare earth elements (REE) to significantly enhance state revenue starting in 2027. Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun revealed that two approved mineral tenement licenses are projected to generate RM18 million. “REE deposits identified in districts like Kuala Pilah and Jelebu are expected to play a major role… Continue reading Negeri Sembilan rare earth elements to boost state revenue from 2027

SHAH ALAM: The Selangor government has rolled out the Selangor State Governance and Service Delivery Reform Framework (RSTU), a strategic initiative to streamline policy implementation and align state governance with federal directives. State Secretary Datuk Dr Ahmad Fadzli Ahmad Tajuddin described RSTU as a catalyst for efficient, transparent, and high-impact service delivery. He emphasised that… Continue reading Selangor launches RSTU framework for civil service reform

KEPALA BATAS: Penang police have seized drugs worth RM33.82 million in operations conducted across the state between January and July this year. Acting chief Datuk Mohd Alwi Zainal Abidin revealed that 14,146 individuals were arrested for drug-related offences during the same period. “A total of 14,146 individuals were arrested for offences under the Dangerous Drugs… Continue reading Penang police seize RM33.8 million in drugs since January

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has upheld its national interests while securing improved trade terms with the United States, ensuring protections for strategic industries and Bumiputera provisions remain intact. Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz clarified that the country did not compromise its policies for preferential treatment. “The United States grants… Continue reading Malaysia maintains national interests in US trade negotiations

KUALA LUMPUR: The acquisition of Boeing aircraft by Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) is part of a strategic, phased plan to modernise and expand its fleet, according to Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz. The minister clarified that the decision was not influenced by external pressures but was based on… Continue reading Boeing aircraft acquisition part of MAG’s long-term fleet renewal plan

KUALA LUMPUR: The state visit of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, to Russia at the invitation of President Vladimir Putin signals a significant step forward in bilateral relations between the two nations. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasised that the visit, scheduled from August 5 to 10, will enhance cooperation in trade,… Continue reading Malaysia-Russia ties strengthen with King’s historic state visit

KUDAT: The National Unity Ministry is exploring tax incentives for corporations that actively contribute to community-level unity programmes. Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang revealed plans to engage the Finance Ministry and Inland Revenue Board to formalise the proposal, aiming to encourage private-sector participation in fostering social cohesion. Aaron emphasised the need for collaborative efforts beyond… Continue reading Tax incentives proposed for companies boosting national unity in Malaysia

MELAKA: A total of 5.03 million hectares, or 89.6 per cent of Malaysia’s oil palm plantation area, has been certified under the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) scheme as of June 30 this year. Deputy Minister of Plantations and Commodities Datuk Chan Fong Hin highlighted this milestone, emphasising the industry’s commitment to sustainable practices aligned… Continue reading Malaysia achieves 89.6% MSPO certification for oil palm plantations

IPOH: The Office of the Sultan of Perak has denied claims of an upcoming royal wedding after a misleading TikTok video went viral. A police report was filed on July 31 to address the false information. Comptroller of the Perak Royal Household Meor Hezbullah Meor Abd Malik confirmed that no royal wedding or live broadcast… Continue reading Perak Sultan’s office denies fake royal wedding claims in viral TikTok video

KUALA TERENGGANU: The search and rescue operation for Eser Demirkol, a Turkiye national missing since the yacht “Daisy” capsized off Pulau Yu, continues for the fifth day. Terengganu Maritime director Captain Maritin Hamiludin Che Awang confirmed the operation resumed at 9 am today with support from the Malaysian Maritime Diving Squadron. Favorable weather and calm… Continue reading Search for missing Turkiye national continues off Pulau Yu

SIBU: The Sarawak government is set to implement the Integrated Logistics Infrastructure Development (ILID) programme statewide to strengthen logistics infrastructure and support sustainable economic growth. State Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin highlighted the programme’s strategic importance in reducing traffic congestion, illegal parking, and improving road safety while optimising logistics operations. One key project… Continue reading Sarawak launches ILID programme to upgrade logistics infrastructure

BUKIT MERTAJAM: An Indonesian domestic worker was among 12 foreign women detained by the Immigration Department during a raid on an entertainment centre early today. Enforcement Division director Basri Othman said checks revealed the woman held a valid permit to work as a maid but had violated the terms by working as a guest relations… Continue reading Maid among 12 foreign women held for working as GROs in Bukit Mertajam

JOHOR BAHRU: The Road Transport Department (JPJ) issued 1,489 summonses totalling RM445,800 during a Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) enforcement operation at the Malaysia-Singapore border from July 1 to August 2. JPJ senior director of Enforcement Muhammad Kifli Ma Hassan said 14,379 Singapore-registered vehicles were inspected near the Sultan Iskandar Building (BSI) and Sultan Abu Bakar… Continue reading JPJ issues 1,489 summonses in VEP enforcement operation

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) announced that six areas across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak are under Level 1 (caution) status regarding the latest hot weather conditions. Based on updates as of 6am today, three areas in Peninsular Malaysia are under Level 1 (caution) status – Baling (Kedah), Selama (Perak) and Temerloh (Pahang).… Continue reading 6 areas including Baling under Level 1 hot weather alert

SUBANG: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, left for Russia this morning for a state visit, from tomorrow until Aug 10, at the invitation of President Vladimir Putin. His Majesty’s visit will be the first by a Malaysian Head of State to Russia since diplomatic relations were established in April 1967. The special plane… Continue reading King departs for historic state visit to Russia

PETALING JAYA: The 13th Malaysia Plan is a watershed moment in the nation’s response to an ageing population, laying the groundwork for sweeping reforms in long-term care, retirement and social protection systems. The plan reflects an urgent recalibration of policy direction as the country braces to become an aged nation by 2043, according to Universiti… Continue reading 13MP marks historic pivot towards ageing nation

PETALING JAYA: Bangladesh’s renewed bid to join Asean has divided opinion among Malaysian experts, with some warning of geopolitical fallout and others highlighting possible strategic and economic gains for Malaysia. The proposal re-emerged after a meeting in Dhaka last week between PKR deputy president Nurul Izzah Anwar and Bangladesh’s interim leader Muhammad Yunus, who appealed… Continue reading Experts divided over Bangladesh Asean bloc bid

KUALA LUMPUR: The Dewan Rakyat session today will address pressing issues, including corruption and malpractice involving Immigration officers at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). The matter follows recent exposures of the “Fly and U-turn” syndicates. Lee Chean Chung (PH-Petaling Jaya) will question the Home Minister on the timeline for resolving these issues during the question-and-answer… Continue reading KLIA immigration corruption and 13MP debate in Dewan Rakyat today

PETALING JAYA: A teenager escaped death after inhaling vape laced with a synthetic drug known as “Magic Mushroom”, leading him to jump from the third floor of his school dormitory in a disoriented state. The incident, which occurred in September 2022, has left lasting trauma for both the 16-year-old boy and his family. His mother,… Continue reading E-cigarette incident traumatises teen, family

PETALING JAYA: A vape liquid dubbed “Magic Mushroom” is causing such dangerous side effects that even hardened drug addicts are steering clear, warning others that one dose could trigger panic, blackouts and total loss of control. Marketed as a “natural hallucinogen”, the liquid is in fact laced with potent synthetic drugs. Users say the effects… Continue reading Warning to stay away from ‘Magic Mushroom’ vape liquid

KUCHING: A massive peatland fire in northern Sarawak has entered its ninth day, with more than 76ha still burning in the Marudi district, threatening nearby agricultural estates and forest reserves. The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department confirmed yesterday that firefighters remain on the ground, battling the blaze with water jets as it spreads through peat-rich… Continue reading Rising API, spreading fires put Sarawak on high alert

KOTA BHARU: The Ministry of Education (MOE) will take firm action once it receives the full investigation report on the incident where the Jalur Gemilang flag was flown upside down at Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Cina (SJKC) Chung Hua in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan. Minister Fadhlina Sidek called the incident serious, stressing that all parties had… Continue reading MOE to take action over upside-down Jalur Gemilang at PD school

KUCHING: The government is evaluating the potential for nuclear energy projects in Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah to address growing energy demands, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof announced. Fadillah, who also serves as Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), highlighted that proximity to water sources like rivers and seas is crucial for… Continue reading Malaysia explores nuclear energy for Peninsular and Sabah regions

KOTA BHARU: The first Form Six College in Machang is expected to be completed and begin operations next year, offering students a more conducive learning environment, said Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek. Fadhlina, who visited the construction site during her three-day working trip to Kelantan, said the project is progressing as scheduled and is on track… Continue reading First Form Six College in Machang to open in 2026

KUCHING: The Sarawak government has expressed readiness to align its tourism development strategies with the newly announced tourism investment zones under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13). Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Sarawak’s Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, stated that while the state already possesses strong tourism offerings, further collaboration with federal… Continue reading Sarawak aligns tourism development with RMK13 investment zones

GEORGE TOWN: Police yesterday arrested five Middle Eastern nationals in connection with thefts targeting foreign tourists in Penang. The suspects, comprising three men and two women aged between 19 and 35, were detained in the Gurney Plaza area under Op Tourist. Penang acting police chief Datuk Mohd Alwi Zainal Abidin stated that three police reports… Continue reading Five foreigners arrested for tourist thefts in Penang

KANGAR: Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail has completed 25 years of leadership as the Raja Muda of Perlis, leaving a profound impact on religious, social, and economic development in the state. The Perlis Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPs) issued a statement today honouring His Royal Highness’ contributions, including humanitarian missions, educational partnerships, and… Continue reading Perlis Raja Muda marks 25 years of leadership with MAIPs

KOTA BHARU: The Ministry of Education (MOE) is conducting a technical and operational study before rolling out compulsory early childhood education for five-year-olds under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP). Minister Fadhlina Sidek stated that the policy is ready, but further examination is needed to ensure smooth implementation and a stronger foundation for early education. “We… Continue reading Malaysia studies early education for 5-year-olds under 13MP

GUA MUSANG: Eighty per cent of the Orang Asli community in Kelantan continue to uphold their traditional customs and beliefs despite rapid modernisation, according to Kelantan National Department of Culture and Arts (JKKN) director Rohaniza Abdullah. A recent study by the department found that the community remains deeply connected to its cultural identity, with younger… Continue reading Kelantan Orang Asli uphold 80% of traditional customs despite modernity

KUALA LUMPUR: Seven international participants will showcase their recitation skills tonight at the 65th International Quran Recitation and Memorisation Assembly (MTHQA), held at the World Trade Centre (WTC) Kuala Lumpur. The session opens with Mozambique’s Zacarias Nuro, followed by Brunei’s Amal Nazirah Haji Asmat, the Philippines’ Jassim Bacarat Hadji Daud, and Iran’s Mohsen Ghasemi. Türkiye’s… Continue reading Seven international reciters at 65th Quran Assembly in Kuala Lumpur

JITRA: Kedah police foiled a drug smuggling attempt, seizing approximately 93.77kg of ganja valued at RM290,600 in a series of raids conducted from July 30 to August 2. Four men were arrested in connection with the case. Kedah police chief CP Adzli Abu Shah revealed that the first raid took place on July 30 at… Continue reading Kedah police seize RM300k worth of ganja in Bukit Kayu Hitam raids

PENAMPANG: The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) is set to develop a Price and Supply Repository System during the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP). This initiative aims to enhance the government’s ability to monitor price fluctuations and supply chain activities from producers to consumers. Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, Minister of KPDN, stated that… Continue reading KPDN to launch price and supply monitoring system under 13MP

JASIN: Two graduates from Jasin Community College (KKJS) have proven that adversity is no barrier to excellence, securing top awards at the 2025 Melaka State Community College Convocation Ceremony. Gabriel Akob, 21, became the first student from the Seletar Orang Asli tribe to receive the Excellent Student Award (APC). Meanwhile, Muhammad Azrul Hazami Abu Hassan,… Continue reading Underprivileged students shine at Jasin Community College convocation

PENAMPANG: A total of 1,500 participants, including education officers, serving teachers, retired educators, and Parent-Teacher Association members from across Sabah, attended the Malaysia MADANI National Seminar today. Akademi Kenegaraan Malaysia (AKM) director-general Dr Roslan Husin said the seminar was organised to recognise the valuable contributions of educators and strengthen their understanding of government policies, particularly… Continue reading Malaysia MADANI seminar unites 1,500 Sabah educators for patriotism drive

KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has lauded Puteri UMNO as the unwavering backbone of the party’s struggle, celebrating its 24th anniversary. The UMNO president highlighted the wing’s dynamic role in representing young women’s voices and leading strategic efforts. In a Facebook post, Ahmad Zahid commended Puteri UMNO for its… Continue reading Puteri Umno remains backbone of party’s struggle, says Ahmad Zahid

SIBU: The Sarawak Ministry of Transport will upgrade traffic parks statewide to strengthen road safety education for students. State Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin announced that six existing parks in Sibu, Kuching, Sri Aman, Sarikei, Bintulu, and Miri will receive special allocations for improvements. The Rejang Park Traffic Garden in Sibu, built over… Continue reading Sarawak to upgrade traffic parks for better road safety education

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) are proceeding with the drug price display initiative at private healthcare facilities and community pharmacies. The phased implementation, which began on August 1, follows an initial educational enforcement period from May 1 to July 31. A joint… Continue reading Drug price display initiative continues in Malaysia from Aug 1

KOTA KINABALU: The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) has partnered with TM Technology Services Sdn Bhd (TM) to accelerate digital transformation in Malaysia’s agro-food sector. The collaboration, formalised through a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC), aims to integrate smart technologies, research, and training to modernise the industry. The MoC was exchanged between KPKM secretary-general… Continue reading KPKM and TM partner to boost agrofood digital transformation

KUALA LUMPUR: The Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) has unveiled plans to utilise the government’s RM100,000 allocation per village to enhance socio-economic development across settler communities. Key initiatives include tourism projects, SME support, and infrastructure upgrades tailored to local needs. In Selangor, Hassan Mukmin Amat, a second-generation settler, proposed developing recreational attractions like an ATV… Continue reading Felda communities to boost economy with RM100k village allocation

KUALA LUMPUR: The Madani government remains committed to uplifting farmers, breeders, and fishermen through strategic support and empowerment, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced. Highlighting their pivotal role in national food security, he stressed the need for federal-state synergy to advance modern agriculture and the blue economy. “I emphasised the need for strong synergy… Continue reading MADANI govt boosts farmers, breeders & fishermen welfare – PM Anwar

IPOH: The recent open water swimming competition at Teluk Senangin in Lumut, where around 40 participants were stung by jellyfish, was organised without prior consultation with local authorities. Perak Human Resources, Health, Indian Community Affairs and National Integration Committee chairman A. Sivanesan stated that the event organiser, a private company from outside Perak, failed to… Continue reading Jellyfish incident at Teluk Senangin competition highlights safety oversight

KUANTAN: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has intensified its search and rescue (SAR) operation for a missing Turkish national, Eser Demirkol, following the capsizing of a yacht near Pulau Yu waters off Kuala Terengganu. MMEA director-general Admiral Datuk Mohd Rosli Abdullah confirmed that two diving teams were dispatched to the last known location of… Continue reading Missing Turkish national search continues after yacht capsizes near Terengganu