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Headlines : Bernama Eng News   Page 1    



Business : Higher Opex Under RP4 To Support TNB's Operational, Maintenance .. - 27/12 3:50 pm

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 27 (Bernama) -- RHB Investment Bank Bhd (RHB IB) is positive on Tenaga Nasional Bhd's (TNB) three-year Regulatory Period 4 (RP4) announcement, as the higher allowed operating expenditure (opex) could support the planning and execution of necessary operational and maintenance activities for all of the utility company's electrical infrastructure.





Business : Southern Cable Secures RM172.57 Mln Contract For Cable Supply .. - 26/12 3:38 pm

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 26 (Bernama) -- Southern Cable Group Bhd's wholly-owned subsidiary, Southern Cable Sdn Bhd, has been awarded a RM172.57 million contract to supply and deliver cables and conductors in East Malaysia.





Business : Bursa Malaysia Seeks Feedback On Depository Rules For .. - 26/12 3:38 pm

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 26 (Bernama) --Bursa Malaysia Bhdtoday issued a consultation paper seeking public feedback on the proposed amendments to the Rules of Bursa Malaysia Depository Sdn Bhd as it moves towards further digitisation in the issuance of securities account statements to depositors (CDS statements).





Business : Malaysia's Livestock Industry Total Trade Increases RM254.7 Mln .. - 26/12 3:38 pm

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 26 (Bernama) -- Malaysias total trade in the livestock industry grew 23.2 per cent, or RM254.7 million, to RM1.4 billion in 2023, according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM).





Business : Nestcon Secures Large Scale Solar Plant Project In Sabah - 25/12 8:32 am

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 24 (Bernama) -- Nestcon Bhds wholly owned subsidiary,Nestcon Infra SdnBhd is setto develop a large-scale solar photovoltaic plant (LSSPV) with 14.99 megawatts of alternating current (MWac) inBongawan, Kimanis, Sabah.





Business : MJets Air Buys A Freighter For US$4.6 Mln As Part Of Fleet .. - 24/12 4:39 pm

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 24 (Bernama) --MJets Air Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of MMAG Holdings Bhd (MMAG),has acquired a Boeing B737-400SF converted freighterfor US$4.6 million (US$1=RM4.49) as part of its plan to expand its fleet to 13 aircraft by the end of 2025.





Business : FPAM Welcomes BNM Premium Cap - Urges Long-term Healthcare .. - 22/12 7:51 am

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 21 (Bernama) --The Financial Planning Association of Malaysia (FPAM) has welcomed Bank Negara Malaysias (BNM) move to cap annual premium increases for medical insurance and takaful at 10 per cent.





Business : As ASEAN Chair Next Year, Malaysia To Focus On ASEAN Power .. - 21/12 2:45 pm

SUBANG, Dec 21 (Bernama) --Malaysia aims to prioritise the ASEAN power grid and digitalisation as ASEAN Chair next year, as part of efforts to support the growth of intra-ASEAN trade, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.





Business : GDA Stands Firm On RM11 Offer For MAHB Despite Directors' .. - 21/12 2:45 pm

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 21 (Bernama) --Gateway Development Alliance Sdn Bhd (GDA), the consortium proposing to privatiseMalaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB), remains steadfast on its RM11 per share offer price, despite recommendations from independent directors to reject it.





Business : MOH Welcomes BNM's Interim Measures To Regulate Insurance, .. - 21/12 7:53 am

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 20(Bernama) -- TheMinistry of Health (MOH) haswelcomed Bank Negara Malaysias (BNM) move to regulate the risein medical and health insurance/takaful (MHIT) premiums,calling it a timely short-term intervention to alleviate the burden of sudden inflation on the public.



Business : Lumi Global Acquires Assembly Voting To Bolster Product .. - 20/12 5:19 pm

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 20 (Bernama) -- Lumi Global, a global leader in technology-driven meeting solutions, has acquiredAssembly Voting, a technology company specialising in end-to-end verifiable, cloud-based elections and voting solutions.





Business : Tentative Date For CAAM-Mavcom Merger Set, To Be Announced By .. - 20/12 5:19 pm

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 20 (Bernama) -- Thetentative date for the merger of the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) and the Malaysian Aviation Commission (Mavcom) has been set and will be revealed later by the Transport Ministry.





Business : BNM International Reserves Slip To Us$118.1 Bln As At Dec 13, .. - 20/12 5:19 pm

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 20 (Bernama) -- Malaysia's international reserves stood at US$118.1 billion (US$1=RM4.50) as at Dec 13, 2024, compared to US$118.3 billion on Nov 30, 2024.





Business : Shahril Mokhtar Appointed Chairman Of Pestech Technology, Yeoh .. - 20/12 5:19 pm

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 20 (Bernama) --Pestech International Bhd has announced the appointment of Datuk Seri DrShahril Mokhtar as chairman of its subsidiary, Pestech Technology Sdn Bhd (PTECH), effective immediately.





Business : Tune Protect Introduces Delay Lounge Pass For Airasia Travel .. - 20/12 7:47 am

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 19 (Bernama) -- Tune Protect Group Bhd has launched the Delay Lounge Pass, offering access to over 1,500 airport lounges worldwide when flights are delayed by two hours or more, a perkavailable across AirAsias extensive global network.





Business : 107.5 Mln e-invoices received By LHDNsince August - 19/12 7:57 am

By Engku Shariful Azni Engku Ab Latif and Previnna Thuraisingam KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 18(Bernama) -- The Inland Revenue Board(LHDN) has received 107.5million e-invoices from taxpayers since the system wasimplementedon Aug 1.





Business : China's Palm Oil Players Invited To Explore Opportunities In .. - 18/12 4:50 pm

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 18 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is inviting China's palm oil companiesto explore opportunities in the domesticindustry.



Business : MRI-Simmons Joins Truthset Data Collective To Reaffirm Data .. - 18/12 4:50 pm

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 18 (Bernama) -- MRI-Simmons, a provider of insights on the American consumer, has joined the Truthset Data Collective, a group of data providers uniting to ensure the highest degree of accuracy and quality for the marketing industry.





Business : Malaysia To Double Down On Collaboration, Trade With Other .. - 18/12 4:50 pm

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 18 (Bernama) -- Malaysia will double down on its strategy of deepening trade and collaboration with other countries in 2025, guided bythree fundamental tenetsofhow Malaysia deals with the world, said Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli.





Business : MIDA, DRB-HICOM, GEELY IN TIE-UP TO DEVELOP AUTOMOTIVE HI-TECH .. - 17/12 3:07 pm

# MIDA, DRB-HICOM, GEELY IN TIE-UP TO DEVELOP AUTOMOTIVE HI-TECH VALLEY IN PERAK KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 17 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) has partnered with DRB-Hicom Bhd and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co Ltd to develop the Automotive Hi-Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjung Malim, Perak, advancing Malaysia's position as ASEAN's hub for next-generation vehicles (NxGV) and energy-efficient vehicles (EEV). The partnershipemphasises strategic investments and the ..

establishment of a comprehensive ecosystem to position AHTV as a hub of automotive innovation in ASEAN, MIDA said in a statement today. "The key focus areas include promoting the transformation of Malaysias automotive industry to position the country as a leader in EEV production within ASEAN and supporting the development of AHTV into a hub for NxGV manufacturing and high-tech (technology) automotive components," it said. The agency said that other focus areas includeenhancing the capabilities of local suppliers to participate in the localisation of key components and integrate into global supply chains, and attracting global automotive supply chain players to establish a comprehensive ecosystem at AHTV. Additionally, the partnership would striveto workwith stakeholders to align investment, industrial and trade policies to accelerate the promotion and application of EEV technologies across Malaysiaand strengthen coordination to create a conducive environment for sustainable automotive innovation, it said. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) was formalised by MIDA chief executive officer (CEO) Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, DRB-Hicom group managing director Tan Sri Syed Faisal Albar, and Geely Auto CEO Jerry Gan Jiayue yesterday. Witnessing the occasion, Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Azizstated that the MIDA-DRB-Hicom-Geely MoU fulfils the objectives of both the National Automotive Policyand the New Industrial Master Plan 2030. He said this AHTV development further positions Malaysia as an automotive hub in ASEAN while also catalysing ASEAN's electric vehicle revolution, particularly in high-tech and energy-efficient mobility solutions. This partnership reflects Malaysia's readiness to not only tech up but also lead the region's transition to sustainable mobility while equipping our workforce with the right skills to elevate Malaysias overall productivity, he said. Meanwhile, Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim said the collaboration enables the agency to harness Industry 4.0 and energy-efficient solutions to create a dynamic ecosystem at AHTV that supports innovation and sustainability. Through its Global Supply Chain Coordination and Industry4WRD initiatives, MIDA is dedicated to enhancing the capabilities of local suppliers, enabling them to meet international standards. "By fostering a competitive and interconnected supply chain, these efforts aim to seamlessly integrate local automotive suppliers into regional and global markets, expanding their reach and impact," it added.





Business : MALAYSIA-THAI TO DEEPEN BORDER, HALAL, TOURISM, DIGITAL, .. - 16/12 3:56 pm

# MALAYSIA-THAI TO DEEPEN BORDER, HALAL, TOURISM, DIGITAL, ENERGY, GAS SUPPLY COLLABORATIONS PUTRAYAJAYA, Dec 16 (Bernama) -- Malaysia and Thailand have agreed to strengthen their economic collaborations, encompassing therubber, tourism, halal anddigital industries, the energy grid and gas supply, as well as in border management. In a joint statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today, Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Paetongtarn Shinawatra encouraged relevant ..

authorities of both countries to explore deeper cooperation through the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Digital Economy Promotion Agencyof Thailand and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation signed in 2023. According to the statement, this is to create a conducive environment that attracts angel investors to support potential technology companies in both countries. The two Prime Ministers also welcomed further discussion by officials from both countries on the Six Countries, One Destination schemeproposed by Thailand. "On a similar note, both countries agreed to explore potential joint campaigns to co-promote Visit Malaysia 2026 and Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism Year 2025 initiatives, expressingsupport for each others tourism campaign," it said. Both leaders have also agreed to develop a greater complementarity of the industry in both countries, in cognisant of the fact that the global Halal economy may reach US$5 trillion by 2030. "This includes the continuation of joint export promotional activities on Halal goods and services; the exchanges of best practices and business know-how; research and development of Halal products as well as more active collaboration involving Malaysian and Thai public and private sectors. "Malaysia is open to supporting Thai officials in developing a local Halal ecosystem by offering courses under the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme. This initiative would provide an opportunity for Thailand to gain insights into Halal standards and practices while helping to strengthen its Halal sector," the statement said. Both leaders also commended the progress in cross-border infrastructure development projects that aim to promote connectivity between both countries, and called on the relevant agencies from both Malaysia and Thailand to ensure the timely completion of the projects. "Both sides acknowledged the importance of the Bukit Kayu Hitam-Sadao checkpoints as the busiest and largest economic, tourism and transport gateway between Malaysia and Thailand. "As such, the Prime Ministers called on the relevant agencies to accelerate the construction progress of the road linking theImmigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security (ICQS) Complex in Bukit Kayu Hitam and theSadao Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) Complex according toeach countrys respective timeline so that the cross-border flow of goods and passengers can be further enhanced." The Prime Ministers also encouraged authorities to expedite the possible cooperation to link the Special Border Economic Zones (SBEZs) between Malaysia and Thailand, particularly the Bukit Kayu Hitam SBEZ in Kedah; theChuping Valley Industrial Area in Perlis; thePasir Mas Halal Park in Kelantan; and theSpecial Economic Zone(SEZ) in the Southern Industrial Estate in Songkhla and the SEZ in Narathiwat. "The two Prime Ministers are pleasedwith the ongoing cooperation through the Malaysia-Thailand Joint Development Area (MTJDA), which continues to guarantee a healthy supply of gas sales to Malaysia and Thailand and provide a positive impact on livelihoods through job opportunities and spurring the local economy. "Thailand also expressed itsappreciation to Malaysia for the support during the gas supply shortage in 2023, which helped to ensureThailand's energy security," said the statement. In addition, both Prime Ministers reaffirmed their support of the existing energy cooperation and initiatives, which are central to the shared vision of a more integrated, sustainable and secure energy future for the region, including under the ASEAN Power Grid Initiative. To promote greater linkages as well as increase cross-border flows of goods and passengers between Malaysia and Thailand, as well as the overall region, the Prime Ministers have entrusted relevant agencies to accelerate the progress on the proposed integrated double-track rail link between Ipoh-Padang Besar and Padang Besar-Hat Yai, and the high-speed rail alignment in both countries. "Both Prime Ministers concurred that the facilitation of road- and rail-based movement of goods and passengers is paramount to the increasing of bilateral trade volume between Malaysia and Thailand as well as achieving ASEAN regional integration. "In this regard, they urged the relevant agencies on both sides to expedite the negotiations on the MOUson the cross-border transportation of goods and passengers," the statement said. Concurrently, both sides agreed to facilitate permit requirements for plant-based goods transiting through Thailand via the ASEAN Express freight train service between Malaysia and China.





Business : PERDANA PETROLEUM'S UNIT SECURES VESSEL CHARTER CONTRACT WITH .. - 16/12 3:56 pm

# PERDANA PETROLEUM'S UNIT SECURES VESSEL CHARTER CONTRACT WITH IPC MALAYSIA KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 16 (Bernama) -- Perdana Petroleum Bhdswholly-owned subsidiary Perdana Nautika Sdn Bhdhas accepted a work order from IPC Malaysia BVfor the charter of one unit of anchor handling tug and supply (AHTS) vessel. This vessel will be used for the charterers provision of production operations vessels contract with Petronas Carigali Sdn Bhd. In a Bursa Malaysia filing today, the oil and gas company said that ..

the contract, which will commence on the vessels on-hire certificate date, is for a duration of three years with an option to extend for another three years from the commencement date. The estimated contract value cannot be determined at this time, as it will vary based on the location to which the vessel is assigned throughout the contract period. Perdana Nautikashall provide a unit of AHTS vessel with crew and equipment to perform a continuous 24-hour service for the purpose of assisting and servicing drilling rigs, offshore installations, derrick barges, towing and anchor job, it said. Perdana Petroleumsaid that the contract is expected to contribute positively to the earnings and its group net assets for the financial year ending Dec 31, 2025, to 2028. The contract will not have an effect on the share capital and shareholding structure of Perdana Petroleum, it added.





Business : DIF5 STRATEGY ATTRACTS RM213.95 BLN INVESTMENTS, 710 COMPANIES .. - 16/12 3:56 pm

# DIF5 STRATEGY ATTRACTS RM213.95 BLN INVESTMENTS, 710 COMPANIES KEEN TO INVEST IN MALAYSIA -- GOBIND KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 16 (Bernama) -- The Digital Investments Future5 (DIF5) Strategy, a five-year initiative (2021-2025) implemented by Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC),has attracted investments totalling RM213.95 billion as of the third quarter of 2024. Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said it has drawninterest from710 new companies to invest in Malaysia and created76,429 new job ..

opportunities up tothe quarter. "The achievement reflects investors' confidence in Malaysia as an investment destinationfor digital technology companies," he said during thequestion-and-answer session in the Dewan Negara today. He was replying to Senator Rita Sarimah Anak Patrick Insol, who wanted to know the ministry's achievement to date through the DIF5 Strategy aimed at creating 50,000 high-value jobs as well asthe challenges faced in implementing thisstrategy. Gobind said the Digital Ministry, through MDEC, provides several programmes to tackle the digitalisation challenges. He said that as of November 2024, the Malaysia Digital (MD) Workforce Training Directory offered 219well-received courses and certification programmes which were specially created and recognised by digital industry experts, including on artificial intelligence (AI), data science, cyber security, animation and cloud computing. "The MD Workforce Training initiative, whichhas attracted atotal of4,644 participants as of November, is aimed at encouraging local workers to enhance their skillsas well as providing retraining in courses or certification programmes related to technology such as AI, cloud storage, data science and animation. "(Meanwhile,) the MD Workforce Place & Train programme has seen 2,481 participants up to November this year. It is aimed at empoweringunemployed individuals with advanced digital skills such as digital marketing, cyber security anddata centre aspects in collaborationwith selected industry partners," he added. Meanwhile, Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong told the Dewan Negara that the government has approved total investments of RM1.1 trillion in the manufacturing, services and primary sectors in the 2020-2023 period. This involved 18,945 projects that are expected to create 487,648 new job opportunities, he said. Liew disclosed that of the approved investments, foreign investments amounted toRM624.6 billion (58.1 per cent) while domestic investments totalled RM449.5 billion (41.9 per cent). "The five states that attracted the highest investmentsduring 2020-2023 were Penang (RM187.8 billion or 17.5 per cent), Selangor (RM183.7 billion or 17.1 per cent), the Federal Territory ofKuala Lumpur (RM138.1 billion or 12.9 per cent),Johor (RM137.9 billion or 12.8 per cent) and Kedah (RM115.2 billion or 10.7 per cent). "They (collectively) accounted for 71 per cent of the overall approved investments for the period," he said in response to a queryfrom Senator Manolan Mohamad who wanted to knowthe total foreign direct investment and domestic direct investment from 2020 to 2023 as well as investmentsfor each state.





Business : Capcom Unveils First New Title in Onimusha Series, Okami Sequel .. - 16/12 3:56 pm

# Capcom Unveils First New Title in Onimusha Series, Okami Sequel in Development KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 16 (Bernama) -- Capcom Co Ltd, a game software developer, has announced that Onimusha Way of the Sword, the first new title in the Onimusha series in over two decades, is scheduled to be released globally in 2026. According to Capcom in a statement, Onimusha Way of the Sword is a Japanese-inspired dark fantasy game set at the beginning of the Edo period in Kyoto, which has been eerily transformed ..

by clouds of Malice. In the game, players will take on the role of a samurai protagonist armedwith the Oni Gauntlet, battlinggrotesque and otherworldly creatures known as Genma in intense sword-based combat. Capcom is eager for players to experience thethrilling action as they fight through waves of enemies. The Onimusha series consists of swordplay action games where players assume the role of warriors with the superhuman powers of the Oni and fight against monsters bent on world domination. Furthermore, the company has begun work on an Okami sequel project thatwas originally released in 2006 and set in a Japanese-style world. Players take on the role of Amaterasu and embark on an adventure to restore life in this action-adventure game. The sequel, co-developed with the director and members of the development team from the original Okami, represents the start of a new tale for the game, which has thus far garnered critical acclaim for its unique world, thrilling adventure, and heartwarming story. In addition to regularly releasing major new titles each year, Capcom is focusing on revitalisingdormant intellectual properties (IPs) aiming to enhance its corporate value by tapping into its vast library of content. By resurrecting beloved games like Onimusha and Okami, the company aims to deliver high-quality gaming experiences that will excite fans around the world. Founded in 1983, Capcom is a worldwide developer, publisher, and distributor of interactive entertainment for game consoles, personal computers, and handheld and wireless devices that has created hundreds of games.





Politics : NO DECISION MADE TO JOIN PKR - TENGKU ZAFRUL - 16/12 8:06 am

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 15 (Bernama) UMNO Supreme Council member (MT) Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz stressed that he has not yet made any decision regarding the rumours of himjoining PKR. Tengku Zafrul, who is also the Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, explained that he adheres to the principle that when making a decision, he will do so with full courtesy and officially inform his party leadership. Actually, I have not made a decision regarding membership in any party, although ..

as the Prime Minister mentioned, there have been discussions on this matter with relevant parties. Therefore, I am very surprised by the development of the leaderships statement on this matter. Furthermore, since this issue was first raised, I have not received any calls from the UMNO leadership to enquire about the real issue, he said in a post on X tonight. He explained that in carrying out his responsibilities and commitments as a member of the government administration, his political struggle is focused on the need to carry out his duties well for the benefit of the people. Commenting on the initial discussions with PKR, he said there was no discussion regarding the offer of positions at the state level or the possibility of a by-election, but rather focused on choosing a suitable platform for political struggle for the development of the people and the country. "I also believe that the individual's right to choose the path of struggle is a fundamental and absolute right because without compatibility it is impossible for an individual to provide the best service. "In fact, I left the corporate world to become a member of the government administration because I am confident that it is a career path that can provide space and opportunities for me to serve the people and also contribute to thenational development agenda directly," he said. Tengku Zafrul said that as a member of the government, he will continue to implement the best policies for the people, in fact, the Unity Government that has been built so far has a strong spirit of cooperation and high tolerance. "The Unity Government is able to accept differences of views and opinions among the component parties, without disrupting the main objective of steering the country towards the best well-being for the people," he said. Tengku Zafrul had previously announced that he would clarify regarding the rumours of his joining PKR and the speculationto replace PKR vice president Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari as the Selangor Menteri Besar. Today, PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that there were initial discussions regarding Tengku Zafrul's participation in the party, which is open to accepting any individual who can contribute to the party.





Politics : PKR CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS ENABLE MORE MEMBERS TO VOTE FOR .. - 15/12 4:03 pm

# PKR CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS ENABLE MORE MEMBERS TO VOTE FOR TOP LEADERSHIP - FAHMI SHAH ALAM, Dec 15(Bernama) Amendments to PKR's party constitution regarding the election process, approved today, will enable greater participation from members of diverse backgrounds in selecting the party's top leadership in the future, said party informationchiefFahmi Fadzil. He said the amendments allow for an increase in the number of delegates voting for party leadership, as future elections will be ..

conducted in both physical and hybrid formats. He added that the amendments also include principles for gender and ethnic quotas to ensure inclusivity and to prevent any ethnic group from being left out of the election process. This amendment promotes greater fairness while also incorporating digitalisation, allowing division-level voting to be conducted online. My hope is that this will enable participation from members of all races, across various states and backgrounds, in the process of selecting the partys top leadership when the time comes, he said. He toldreporters this after attending the PKR Special National Congress, officiated by party president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim here today. Elaborating, Fahmi noted that the amendments would also increase the representation of divisionswith large memberships in the election process, ensuring fairness for these divisions. Earlier, the congress approved amendments to the party constitution regarding the election process, allowing for a higher number of delegates to vote for the six top party positions and 20 members of the Central Leadership Council (MPP) at the National Congress.



Politics : PKR APPROVES AMENDMENTS TO INCREASE DELEGATES VOTING FOR TOP .. - 15/12 4:03 pm



Politics : ANWAR CONFIRMS INITIAL PKR TALKS ON TENGKU ZAFRUL'S RUMOURED .. - 15/12 4:03 pm

# ANWAR CONFIRMS INITIAL PKR TALKS ON TENGKU ZAFRUL'S RUMOURED ENTRY SHAH ALAM, Dec 15 (Bernama) PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today confirmed that preliminary discussions have taken place within the party regarding rumours of Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz joining PKR. The Prime Minister saidPKR is open to the participation of any individual, including Tengku Zafrul, as long as the person can contribute positively to the party. As a principle, we maintain an open stance - ..

anyone who can contribute to the party is welcome, but their entry must be done properly to ensure our relationships with other parties, including UMNO (remain unaffected), he said. He told reporters this after openingthe PKR Special National Congress here. Previously, media reports alleged that Tengku Zafrul would leave UMNO to join PKR, alongside claims that he would take over as Selangor Menteri Besar, replacing Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, who is speculated to join the federal Cabinet. Elaborating on the matter, Anwar emphasised that PKR does not practise inviting members of other parties to join its ranks but is open to discussions, as the party maintains an inclusive stance. He noted that in the past, some PKR leaders had moved on to become the secretary-general of Amanah as well as joinedDAP. So, when it comes to Keadilan (PKR), we have always left the door open, but we usually engage in proper discussions, he said. Earlier, Anwar attended the congress, which, among other objectives, aimed to amend the partys constitution. The congress was convened after the 2024 PKR National Congress, scheduled to take place in Johor today, was postponed due to floods affecting several states. Anwarwas received by topparty leaders, including deputy president Rafizi Ramli, when he arrived for the congress, which was conducted ina hybrid format assome delegates werefrom flood-affected states. Also present werePKR secretary-general Dr Fuziah Salleh and information chiefFahmi Fadzil. Previously, Fuziah was reported as saying that the Special Congress would, among others, makeamendments to the party constitution related to the number of delegates, as well as gender and ethnic quotas. She saidthe amendments would align with the principles of democratic participation, granting party members the right to vote for leaders in future elections.





Politics : UMNO, BN WING LEADERS DESERVE WIDER OPPORTUNITIES TO BE .. - 15/12 7:44 am

# UMNO, BN WING LEADERS DESERVE WIDER OPPORTUNITIES TO BE ELECTION CANDIDATES - AHMAD ZAHID SUNGAI PETANI, Dec 14 (Bernama) -- Leaders of UMNO and Barisan Nasional (BN) wings must be given wider opportunities to become party candidates in the next election. BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said these Wanita, Youth and Puteri leaders, besides them being the grassroots, also played crucial roles in helping the party, especially when the party went through hard times. "When times were ..

difficult, it was they who helped UMNO and BN. When we were kicked around, it was these grassroots members who remained loyal to UMNO and BN... the ones doing the most work were the BN women's wing, the ones with the least number of seats were also the women. "I wish to remind the BN secretary-general and the UMNO secretary-general, in the next election, be it the general election (GE) or state polls, to give a chance to the Wanita, Youth and Puteri wings. "Our era is over, this is the era of the younger generation. We were young once, we became candidates when we were still young," he said when officiating the launch of the Kedah BN Convention in Bedong, near here, today, which was also attended by BN secretary-generalDatuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir and Kedah BN chairmanDatuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid. Slamming those who were willing to abandon the party's struggle for personal gains, Ahmad Zahid, who is also the UMNO president, said theyprioritised members who are loyal to the party. He reiterated that the compatibility among the parties making up the Unity Government needed to be protected by, among others, not accepting members from other parties among the component parties. Ahmad Zahid also said that BN viewed Kedah as a swing state and is confident of wresting back the state, which is currently under the administration of Perikatan Nasional, in the next election. "We view Kedah as a swing state, as we doTerengganu and Perlis. 'Swing' here means there can be a change of government...," he said.





Business : POSITIVE SIGNS BOOST CONFIDENCE IN NATIONAL GROWTH OUTLOOK -- .. - 14/12 3:05 pm

# POSITIVE SIGNS BOOST CONFIDENCE IN NATIONAL GROWTH OUTLOOK -- AMIR HAMZAH PUTRAJAYA, Dec 14(Bernama) -- Various positive indicators have boosted confidence in the national growth outlook, including the recovery of the ringgit,inflation remaining manageable, and unemployment staying low, according to Finance MinisterII Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan. In a social mediapost today, he also highlightedMalaysia'ssolid growth trajectory with the 2024 gross domestic product (GDP)forecast to exceed ..

five per cent as well asthe declining fiscal deficit, which is projected to be 4.3 per cent of GDP this year. "(In addition,) total approved investment increased 10.7 per cent to RM254.7 billion for January-September 2024 against the corresponding period in 2023," he said. Thursday, Dec 12, marked one year since Amir Hamzah's appointment asFinance Minister II. His main focus in thisrole, he said, is implementing initiatives in line with the MADANI Economy framework, which include restructuring the economy byexpandingthenational revenue, safeguarding the people's well-being in a fair and inclusive manner, and supportingmore robust governance. "For me, governance is the the line separating falsehoodand success. "It is clear and concrete, but balancing between fiscal expansion and the people's welfare takes all of the experience and knowledge I had gained in the corporate sector over the previous 27 years," he said. Amir Hamzah expressed gratitude that Budget 2025 is steeringthe MADANI Economy framework which bears a humanitarian agenda. "More comprehensive and focused aidprogrammes are being provided to ensure that no one is left behind amid the national development progress," he said. On the Supply Bill 2025 (Budget 2025) approved by the Dewan Negara on Thursday, he said the next step is implementing the budget in the face of geopolitical challenges and market uncertainty. "Nonetheless, we are determined to continue safeguarding the country's economic resilience. "Various proactive measures have been taken to enhance the nation's competitiveness at the international level while ensuring domestic financial stability," he said. Budget 2025, tabled by Prime MinisterDatuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Oct 18, involves an allocationof RM421 billion, making it the largest budget in Malaysia's history. Alignedwith the MADANI Economy framework, the budget focuseson attracting high-quality investments, increasingbusiness opportunities andundertaking projects for the rakyat's wellbeing withoutimpacting their ability to buy essential goods and services. ??? Budget 2025 ??? Kajian Kes MyCheck Malaysia





Politics : SAPP QUITS PERIKATAN NASIONAL, YONG ANNOUNCES - 14/12 3:05 pm

KOTA KINABALU, Dec 14 (Bernama) --The Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP)has officially withdrawn from Perikatan Nasional (PN), a decision formalised during its Supreme Council meeting on Nov 23, SAPPpresidentDatuk Yong Teck Lee said. Yong said PNs intention to contest in the upcoming Sabah State Election conflicted with SAPPs longstanding principle that all 73 Sabah stateseats should be contested exclusively by local parties. "SAPPs stance aligns with the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and Sabahs ..

autonomy. "We cannot compromise on our commitment to ensuring that state elections remain under the jurisdiction of Sabah-based parties, free from interference by peninsula-based parties, Yong said in a statement today. He said PNs insistence on fielding candidates from Malaya-based parties directly contradicts this fundamental principle. SAPP is currently a component party of the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition, comprising Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat), Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR), United Sabah National Organisation (USNO), Parti Harapan Rakyat Sabah (PHRS),Liberal Democratic Party(LDP) and Parti Cinta Sabah (PCS). Yong said SAPP has proposed a resolution to the GRS Supreme Council, urging the coalition to field candidates in all 73 seats during the upcoming state polls. "This step is crucial in upholding Sabahs rights under MA63 and reflecting the strong aspirations of the people for a government that practises genuine federalism, he said. With less than 10 months until the state election, Yong also called on the GRS Supreme Council to resolve any uncertainties regarding its alignment with Pakatan Harapan before the new year. "All these matters must be clarified to allow the people of Sabah to make informed decisions about their political future, he said.





Business : YINSON'S 3Q FY2025 NET PROFIT FALLS TO RM200 MLN - 13/12 3:36 pm

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 13 (Bernama) -- Yinson Holdings Bhd posted a lower net profit of RM200 million for the third quarter ended Oct 31, 2024 (3Q FY2025), compared toRM248 million in the same period last year. Revenue for the quarter declined to RM1.85 billion from RM2.81 billion previously. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia today, Yinson said the lower revenue for the quarter under review was mainly attributed to a lower contribution from its engineering, procurement, construction, installation, and ..

commissioning (EPCIC) business activities. "This was due tolower reported progress for the groups floating production storage and offloading (FPSOs) units under construction duringthe current quarter. "However, this was moderated by gains fromthe remeasurement of finance lease receivables arising from lease extension for FPSOAbigail Joseph and charter day rate escalations for FPSO Maria Quitria," it said. The group clarified that project progress is in line with expectations. Yinson also noted that the groups pretax profit for 3Q FY2025 decreased by 11 per cent to RM297 million from RM333 million in Q2 FY2025. "The declinereflects the same factorsimpactingrevenue butwas partially offset by one-off impacts of the reversal of impairment of property, plant, and equipment of RM18 million and gain on disposal of a subsidiary of RM163 million including recycling of associated foreign currency translation reserves to profit or loss," it added. Looking ahead, Yinson said as FPSO Atlanta and FPSO Agogo commence their charter periods over the next year, the group will transition into stable growth, where itis expectedto receive steady, contracted income streams for the coming decades. The strong focus on deliveries means we will pause significant new investments until current projects are completed, and cash flows begin, the company said. Yinson said it remains confident in achieving satisfactory results for the financial year ending Jan 31, 2025, supported by its portfolio of long-term contracts. The group also declared a third interim single-tier dividend of one sen per share for FY2025, with the entitlement and payment date to be announced later.





Business : TIJARAH HOLDING APPOINTS HASNI ZARINA AS CHIEF GROWTH STRATEGIST - 13/12 3:36 pm

# TIJARAH HOLDING APPOINTS HASNI ZARINA AS CHIEF GROWTH STRATEGIST LABUAN, Dec 13 (Bernama) -- Blockchain technology company Tijarah Holding Ltdhas appointed Hasni Zarina as chief growth strategist. A statement from the company said Hasniis set to spearhead Labuan-incorporated Tijarah Holding's strategic growth initiatives, reinforcing its position as a premier Islamic Digital Asset Service Provider. She has experience in business transformation, digital innovation, and the Islamic economy, and ..

was previously Touch 'n Go chief executive officer, the statement said, adding that her experience spans leadership roles in prominent organisations, including the Halal Development Corporation. Tijarah chairman Datin Syazana Parawadi said the appointment underlines the companys commitment to innovation and excellence in Islamic financial services. Hasniscredentials, including an MBA from Aston University and an honours degree in Electronics Engineering from Birmingham City University, have underpinned her outstanding career. Her proven track record in digital transformation, growth strategy, and her collaborative relationships with government entities will be instrumental as we advance our strategic initiatives and bolster our leadership in the market, Syazana said in the statement. Her accolades include being named among the Top 300 Women in Islamic Business and Finance (2020) and receiving the Women Professional in Islamic Business and Finance Award (2022). Tijarah Holding is an Ummah Linked Companyregulated by Labuan Financial Services Authority and is known for MaalChain, a blockchain innovation platform powered by itsWisdom 2.0 solution. The technology aids centralised entities such as governments and financial institutions in adopting decentralised blockchain systems.



Business : AM Best Upgrades Malaysias Tune Protect Re Issuer Credit Rating - 13/12 3:36 pm



Business : BANK MUAMALAT, AMANAHRAYA TARGET 15,000 NEW REGISTRATIONS FOR .. - 13/12 7:53 am

# BANK MUAMALAT, AMANAHRAYA TARGET 15,000 NEW REGISTRATIONS FOR CREDIT CARD-I WITHIN FIRST YEAR OF LAUNCH KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 12 (Bernama) -- Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd dan Amanah Raya Bhd (AmanahRaya) is targeting 15,000 new registrations for their Visa Platinum Credit Card-i within the first year of launch. Bank Muamalat president and chief executive officer Khairul Kamarudin said the new Bank Muamalat AmanahRaya branded card targets a segment over 25, with families and planning for the future. ..

"This innovative credit card enables customers and potential customers of AmanahRaya to make instalments, up to 10 per cent discount on selected AmanahRaya products, as well as various other special benefits," he said during the credit card's launch here today. The card also provides various benefits, including a first-year annual fee waiver, 0.5 per cent cashback, a balance transfer plan, complimentary takaful coverage on Credit Card-i outstanding balance and complimentary takaful coverage for travel accidents. Khairul said the credit card is an initiative to enable easy and smarter planning and management of finances and assets. He said Bank Muamalat is committed to providing financial solutions that benefit all levels of society, especially regarding wealth and legacy management. "By providing credit facilities for wealth management through AmanahRaya, we hope more individuals will be involved in estate planning, which will reduce complications regarding inheritance and foster economic stability," he said. AmanahRaya group managing director Ahmad Feizal Sulaiman Khan said that as a pioneer in the estate and legacy industry, the company will always help people realise their aspirations through its services. "Legacy planning services not only fulfil our customers' financial needs, but this will also provide them with peace of mind with early planning because AmanahRaya will manage their estate," he added. ??? Kajian Kes MyCheck Malaysia



Business : Malaysias Lonpac Insurance Receives Excellent Ratings from AM .. - 12/12 3:05 pm



Business : GAS DISTRIBUTION BETWEEN PETRONAS AND PETROS SETTLED, GOVT .. - 12/12 3:05 pm

# GAS DISTRIBUTION BETWEEN PETRONAS AND PETROS SETTLED, GOVT FINE-TUNING DETAILS - PM ANWAR KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 12 (Bernama) -- Discussions ongas distributionin Sarawak between Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) and Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros) have beensettled, and the government is currently fine-tuning thedetails, parametersand implications of the move. In announcing this,Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he had a good discussion with Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg ..

regarding the matter anda clear decision has been reached. "Discussion is settled but we are looking into details, parameters and legal implication (of it), he told reporters after launching the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Office at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre here today. Yesterday,Abang Johari said that it was up to the prime minister to announce the details of the distribution formula. "I leave it to the PM to announce (the details of the resolution formula). Just wait," he said when met by reporters after attending the 4th Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEANGrowth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Conference heretoday. In an interview with a local television station TVSarawak on Tuesday, Abang Johari was reported as saying that thegas distribution issue could be considered resolved while waiting for the official announcement byAnwar. According to himthe issue of gas distribution only involved the legal aspects, where the Petroleum Development Act 1974, referenced by Petronas, and the Oil Mining Ordinance 1958, enforced by Sarawak, could coexist.





Business : GOVT PROACTIVE IN ADDRESSING SHADOW ECONOMY ISSUES, TAX .. - 12/12 7:52 am

# GOVT PROACTIVE IN ADDRESSING SHADOW ECONOMY ISSUES, TAX COMPLIANCE RATE LEVEL AND CURBING REVENUE LEAKAGE KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 11 (Bernama) --The government is always proactive in dealing with the issue of the shadow economy through methods of increasing tax compliance, curbing revenue leakage and increasing the public's trust in the country's taxation system. Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying said the size of the shadow economy in Malaysia on average was estimated at 21.2 per cent for the ..

period 2010-2019 compared to the period 2000-2009 where the size of the shadow economy was 30.2 per cent compared to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). "The National Coordinating Committee for Anti-Money Laundering (NCC) has already completed a national risk assessment that examines the risk of financial crime or threats to Malaysia as a whole. "Therefore, Malaysia can still fulfill its tasks as a member of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), besides various efforts are constantly intensified through more active enforcement and surveillance actions through the joint efforts of the agencies involved," she said during the winding up of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorist Financing and Proceeds of Illegal Activities (Amendment) Bill 2024 in the Dewan Rakyat today. The bill was then passed by a majority voice vote in favour after 10 members of parliament took part in debating it. Lim said international coordination is effective in ensuring that a country can achieve a satisfactory level in curbing the risk of money laundering prevention activities, countering financing of terrorism and targeted financial sanctions policies (AML/CFT and TFS). In this regard, she said international coordination through FATF is very important where Malaysia as a FATF member continues to maintain compliance and high standards to FATF standards and recommendations as a clear guideline especially ahead of the joint assessment in February next year. "Based on a joint assessment in 2015, Malaysia got a rating comparable to other developed countries in efforts to curb the country's exposure in AML/CFT and TFS activities. "Through the cooperation and joint efforts of all parties, Malaysia sets a target to obtain a satisfactory rating next year while also strengthening the AML/CFT and TFS regime in Malaysia," she said. Meanwhile, Lim said reporting institutions under the bill can implement procedures and internal controls that match the risk, size and complexity of the institution's business operations. Therefore, provisions under the bill will not increase compliance costs and impact small entities such as law firms and existing companies. Bank Negara Malaysia will continue to increase cooperation and engagement sessions with reporting institutions as well as issue best practice guidelines to increase the effectiveness of its implementation. Commenting on the enforcement of the use of cryptocurrency, Lim said the government agreed that it needs to be strengthened in line with the recommendations proposed based on the findings of the 2023 Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Risk Assessment. "This effort is necessary to strengthen the capacity of all parties involved in the investigation and enforcement of financial crimes, especially in deepening their understanding of emerging risks and the modus operandi of money laundering given the threats faced as a result of technological advances," she added.



Business : Mavenir, Terrestar Successfully Conduct Live Satellite NB-IoT .. - 11/12 3:49 pm

Business : SARAWAK EXPANDS GLOBAL REACH TO TRANSFORM ECONOMIC BASE - ABANG .. - 11/12 3:49 pm

# SARAWAK EXPANDS GLOBAL REACH TO TRANSFORM ECONOMIC BASE - ABANG JOHARI KUCHING, Dec 11 (Bernama) -- Sarawak is focused on expanding its global reach to acquire relevant knowledgewith the goal of transforming its economic base. Sarawak PremierTan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that for this reason, Sarawak has implemented a dual language policy, incorporating both Bahasa Malaysia and Englishto ensure effective communication and broader access to global knowledge. "We need many technologists ..

who are well-trained in science, physics, mathematics and language,"he said when speaking at the 4th Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Conference here today. He said the state is also expanding its ambitions in the aerospace industry as Sarawak-owned ICATS University College is now offering degree courses in aerospace and collaborating with international institutions to develop the necessary expertise for the sector. "Digitalisation is also linked with satellites, and for that, we have to know the technology in aerospace, satellites, rockets, and so on for the purpose of good function, not for war, but rather for us to explore the resource that is available on this planet," he said. Meanwhile, Sarawak Education, Innovation and Talent Development MinisterDatuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn said the TVETs role in bridging the skills gap and preparing the workforce for the future has been vital as the demand for skilled professionals across key sectors continues to grow. In his text of speech read by his deputyDatuk Francis Harden Hollis at the event, he saidhis ministry is committed to equipping youth with the skills needed to thrive in a digital and rapidly changing world. "TVET plays a crucial role in addressing the skills gap and ensuring that the workforce is ready for the future of work,"he said. Around 500 delegates from Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, the Philippines, and other countries attended the 4th BIMP-EAGA TVET Conference. The conference, with the theme "Building a Sustainable Future Through TVET," brought together leaders, experts, and key stakeholders from various sectors and nations to discuss the ongoing transformation of TVET.




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