KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysias economy is expected to grow at a moderate pace in 2026 amid heightened global trade uncertainties and subdued external demand, said the Ministry of Finance (MoF). In its Pre-Budget Statement 2026, the minister stated that growth will be anchored by resilient domestic demand, particularly through private investment, stable employment, and income-enhancing measures such as targeted cash transfers and wage increases. The tourism sector, driven by Visit Malaysia 2026, is ..

KUALA LUMPUR: Police have recorded 40 statements, involving 37 victims and three witnesses, in connection with an investment fraud scheme that caused total losses of over RM8.4 million. Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department (JSJK) director Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa said the case was first exposed by Malaysian International Humanitarian Organisation (MHO) secretary- general Datuk Hishamuddin Hashim, through 43 police reports filed since 2023. He said the fraudulent investment scheme was ..

SEREMBAN : Datuk Masri Baharuddin, the director of the Corporate and Strategic Management Division of the Public Works Department (JKR), has been appointed as the new Mayor of the Seremban City Council (MBS), effective today. Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun said Masri replaced Datuk Masri Razali, who was appointed as the State Financial Officer in May. The state government has full confidence in his leadership to steer MBS towards making Seremban a sustainable city. ..

SEPANG : A farmer was fined RM15,000, in default six months in jail, by the Sessions Court here today after pleading guilty to making and initiating the transmission of offensive communications regarding the royal institutions via his Facebook page last February. Judge Ahmad Fuad Othman meted out the fine on Mohammad Faisal Mohd Yusof, 37, after he changed his plea to guilty when the case came up for mention today. Before meting out the sentence, the judge advised Mohammad Faisal to be more ..

KUALA LUMPUR : The government is scheduled to table Budget 2026 in parliament on Oct 10, 2025, said the Ministry of Finance (MOF). The ministry will be coordinating extensive public and stakeholder engagements to secure inputs, in line with the priorities of the MADANI Economy. The government is committed to translate the inputs received from these engagements into Budget 2026, especially those that directly support the advancement of the economy, wellbeing of the rakyat and better governance, ..

KUALA LUMPUR: The Home Ministry (KDN) and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) will ensure the welfare of Corporal Mohd Hafizul Izham Mazlans family is safeguarded after he was killed in the line of duty while attempting to arrest criminals in Alor Setar, Kedah, yesterday. Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said Mohd Hafizuls passing was a great loss to the country and PDRM and gave assurance that all related payments, including gratuities, ex- gratia, rewards and other contributions, ..

CYBERJAYA : Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan will lead an official ASEAN team to assess the situation in Myanmar on Sept 19. Mohamad said the delegation, which includes his counterparts from Thailand, the Philippines and Indonesia, will check on the situation under the new administration following the dissolution of the junta government and the end of the state of emergency. Previously, they (Thailand, the Philippines and Indonesia) went separately, but we are practising unity. Were ..

SHAH ALAM : A total of 1,260 units of Idaman Bukit Jelutong affordable homes were officially handed over to their owners today. Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the project, developed by Gagasan Nadi Cergas Berhad in collaboration with Permodalan Negeri Selangor Bhd (PNSB), is part of the state governments ongoing commitment to enhancing the well-being of the people by providing high-quality, comfortable, and well-equipped affordable homes. . He said the condominium-style affordable ..

CYBERJAYA: The swift and effective ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia is an unprecedented achievement for ASEAN, demonstrating the strength, commitment and resolve of its leaders, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said the breakthrough was made possible through multi-layered cooperation involving the prime ministers and foreign ministers of both nations, their armed forces, and the trust built among ASEAN leaders. I must thank both leaders of Cambodia and Thailand, the ..

CHUKAI: An engineer lost RM114,000 after falling victim to a phone scam syndicate that impersonated an officer from the Bukit Aman Anti-Money Laundering (AMLA) Criminal Investigation team. Kemaman police chief Supt Mohd Razi Rosli said the incident occurred on Aug 5, when the 31-year-old victim received a phone call from an individual claiming he was under investigation for involvement in an account fraud syndicate. He said the suspect had instructed the victim to make several payments in order ..

KUALA LUMPUR : World leaders and foreign envoys took to social media on Thursday to convey their well wishes to ASEAN on its 58th anniversary, underscoring the blocs enduring role in promoting regional peace, prosperity and cooperation. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described ASEAN as a key partner and celebrated the deepening ties between New Zealand and Southeast Asia, especially as both sides mark 50 years of diplomatic partnership this year. The Association of Southeast Asian ..

KUALA LUMPUR: The long-term assistance plan for victims of the Pantai Dalam fire will be carefully studied before implementation. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil stated that his ministry is organising meetings with affected families and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL). First, we will engage with the affected families to explore what kinds of support, beyond financial aid and emergency relief, can be provided. Fahmi mentioned the possibility of relocating victims to nearby Peoples ..

KUALA LUMPUR: Police have arrested 71 individuals, including eight foreigners, for allegedly acting as mule account holders in 59 raids conducted nationwide under Op Khas Kad ATM. Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) director Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa said the operation was carried out in collaboration with Bank Negara Malaysia to thwart cash withdrawals by fraud syndicates based on cases reported to the National Scam Response Centre. He said of the 59 raids carried out ..

KUALA LUMPUR : The Magistrates Court acquitted former Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (MUDA) secretary-general Amir Hariri Abd Hadi over charges linked to a 2022 protest rally on the littoral combat ship (LCS) issue. Magistrate Farah Nabihah Muhamad Dan ordered his release after the prosecution applied to withdraw the case. Deputy Public Prosecutor Anis Wahidah Mohamad cited the Federal Courts ruling that Section 9(5) of the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 was unconstitutional. The court ..

BANDAR PERMAISURI: The remains of Corporal Mohd Hafizul Izham Mazlan were buried with full police honours today. The 35-year-old policeman died after being struck by a suspects vehicle during a housebreaking operation in Alor Setar. His body was brought to his parents home in Kampung Pak Kancil before funeral prayers at Petra Jaya Mosque. The burial took place at the mosques cemetery, attended by Terengganu Police Chief Datuk Mohd Khairi Khairuddin and over 300 mourners. The ceremony included ..

CYBERJAYA: ASEAN has shown decisive action under Malaysias leadership, said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. He credited Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for mediating the Thailand-Cambodia border dispute, resulting in a ceasefire. Malaysia convened talks in Putrajaya to ease tensions between the neighbouring nations, Mohamad stated. An interim monitoring team will oversee the ceasefire implementation, backed by ASEANs collective support. Thailand and Cambodia have formally ..

KUALA LUMPUR: Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, has extended his greetings on the occasion of the 58th ASEAN Day today. In a Facebook post, he emphasised Malaysias continued commitment as an ASEAN member state to strengthen diplomatic relations, trade, security, education, and cultural cooperation for the shared prosperity of the region. Today, we celebrate the unity, cooperation, and friendship that ASEAN has fostered since its establishment on Aug 8, 1967, he ..

CYBERJAYA : United States President Donald Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Brazilian President Luiz Incio Lula da Silva and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa are among the world leaders expected to attend the 47th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia this October, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Anwar, who represents Malaysia as ASEAN Chair, said positive confirmations have been received from Lula and Ramaphosa, while Trump has indicated his participation following a recent phone ..

CYBERJAYA : Chinese President Xi Jinping may visit Malaysia in October for the Asean Summit, alongside United States President Donald Trump, said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. He told reporters that it (Xis visit) was a possibility echoing Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahims indication of this development. Mohamad was speaking to reporters after attending the 58th Asean Day celebration here today. Anwar was also present at the event, along with Tourism, Arts and Culture ..

SHAH ALAM: Edaran Otomobil Nasional (EON) Bhd has set a goal to sell more than 12,000 vehicles this year. Chief executive officer Akkbar Danial revealed the company has already sold around 6,000 units across various models. EON serves as the official distributor for Proton and also handles global brands Audi, Mitsubishi, and Volkswagen through subsidiaries. Competition in the market has increased with more car brands being sold in Malaysia, so its now more challenging, Akkbar said. Thats why I ..

PETALING JAYA : The government is aiming for a full nationwide rollout of a Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) toll system within two years, said Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi. He said a pilot project using Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology with 99.98% detection accuracy is currently being tested at 13 toll plazas across 35 lanes under PLUS Malaysia Bhd. He added that the ANPR system uses AI-powered high-definition cameras to identify vehicles and charge toll ..

PETALING JAYA : A total of 2,184 crashes were recorded on federal roads with poor street lighting from 2023 to July this year, the Works Ministry revealed in Parliament on Wednesday. The figure was disclosed following a query from Hulu Terengganu MP Datuk Rosol Wahid, who asked about crash statistics and government action at high-risk areas such as poorly lit roads and those affected by potholes. The ministry said it is concerned about road safety, especially on federal routes. It added that ..

KUALA LUMPUR : The Gig Workers Bill 2025 will be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat for its first reading on August 14. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi confirmed the second reading will follow on August 26. He explained that the second reading will involve detailed discussions and debates by MPs from both government and opposition benches. A simple majority vote will be sufficient for the bill to pass, without requiring a two-thirds majority. Ahmad Zahid shared these updates ..

LAHAD DATU : The Marine Police Force arrested two men in an early morning operation at Batu 8, Jalan Silam. The suspects, aged 32 and 38, were detained with two vans carrying contraband cigarettes worth over RM2 million. Sabah Region 4 PPM Commander ACP Mohd Nazri Ibrahim confirmed the operation took place around 1 am. Checks on the vehicles uncovered piles of black plastic bags containing a large quantity of various brands of cigarettes, he said. The seized cigarettes, believed to be smuggled ..

KUALA LUMPUR : A former wushu coach has been sentenced to 13 years in prison and four strokes of the cane for sexually assaulting a 10-year-old girl. Judge Tasnim Abu Bakar delivered the verdict after finding the defence failed to raise reasonable doubt in the case against Gjeblehim Bong Teck Fuu, 34. The court ordered the accused to undergo counselling during his imprisonment and placed him under police supervision for three years after his release. Defence counsel Tharamjit Singhs request for ..

GOMBAK : The Road Transport Department (JPJ) will begin confiscating commercial vehicles owned by companies that employ foreign drivers starting today. JPJs Senior Director of Enforcement Muhammad Kifli Ma Hassan stated that the crackdown targets lorries, public service vehicles, and tour buses driven by foreigners. He clarified that current regulations prohibit foreigners from holding Vocational Licences like Goods Drivers Licence (GDL) or Public Service Vehicle (PSV) permits. Enforcement ..

PUTRAJAYA : The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission has reached out to Pagoh MP Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin to assist in an ongoing investigation. The probe involves verifying a TikTok video that allegedly links Muhyiddin to claims about targeted RON95 petrol subsidies. MCMC clarified that the investigation focuses solely on content verification and does not imply any allegations or charges against him. The commission stated it may summon additional individuals if needed to complete ..

MOSCOW : His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, today visited the Central Scientific Research Automobile and Automotive Engines Institute (NAMI) here to observe advancements in Russian automotive technology. Upon arrival, His Majesty was received by NAMI chief executive officer Fedor Nazarov. Also present were Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, who is also the Minister-in-Attendance, Foreign Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Amran Mohamed Zin, and Malaysian Ambassador ..

KUALA LUMPUR : Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz has urged Malaysian businesses, including SMEs, to strengthen their global competitiveness to overcome trade barriers like tariffs. He emphasised the need for firms to become indispensable by expanding overseas and making their products essential in global supply chains. Speaking at the ASEAN Business Community Development Forum, Tengku Zafrul highlighted the importance of adopting advanced technology and ..

KUALA LUMPUR : Datuk Seri G Gnanaraja, a key prosecution witness in an ongoing corruption trial, will seek official protection after an alleged robbery left him injured. His lawyer, Datuk RT Rajasekaran, confirmed a formal request for witness protection will be submitted to the police. The case is still under investigation, and we suspect it may be linked to his role in the trial, Rajasekaran said. He urged the public to avoid speculation until the police complete their probe. Gnanaraja has ..

GEORGE TOWN : Police are completing investigation papers on five Iranian nationals arrested for allegedly stealing money from foreign tourists in George Town last Saturday. Acting Penang police chief Datuk Mohd Alwi Zainal Abidin confirmed the suspects, aged 19 to 35, have finished their police remand and are now under Immigration Department custody until August 15. Police are still probing possible links to similar cases in other states, but no findings have surfaced yet, he said. ..

BUKIT MERTAJAM : Empowering special needs education remains a key focus for the Ministry of Education under Budget 2026. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek emphasised the governments commitment to inclusive education during a mock cheque presentation ceremony. She revealed that RM10 million was allocated under Budget 2025 to support private autism schools. This marks the first time such a special allocation has been made for autism and special needs institutions, she said. The initiative ..

KUALA LUMPUR : Thailand and Cambodia have thanked Malaysia for mediating recent border tensions between the two nations. Thailands Acting Defence Minister General Nattaphon Narkphanit acknowledged Malaysias role in facilitating coordination between the parties. He stated that Malaysias efforts, supported by ASEAN, helped both countries resolve the issue independently. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Malaysian Government as the ASEAN Chair, and the Ministry of Defence for ..

KLANG : Three individuals, including a woman, appeared in the Sessions Court today over charges of smuggling a Sri Lankan national. The accused are G. Santhiya Darshini, 27, and Janarthanan Appupillai, 46, both Malaysians, along with Vtheewaran Palani, 48, a Sri Lankan citizen. They acknowledged the charge after it was read to them in Tamil before Judge Mohd Sabri Ismail. No plea was recorded as the case falls under the High Courts jurisdiction. The trio allegedly arranged the smuggling of a ..

PUTRAJAYA : The East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project has achieved 86.07 per cent completion as of July 2025. Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL) chairman Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar confirmed the project remains on schedule. Phase 1, stretching from Kota Bharu to Gombak Integrated Terminal, is expected to finish by December 2026. Operations for Phase 1 are set to begin in January 2027. Phase 2, extending from Gombak to Port Klang, is targeted for completion by December 2027. Full operations for ..

KOTA BHARU : The Road Transport Department (JPJ) is enhancing ties with public universities through the MyLesen B2 initiative to assist B40 students in securing valid motorcycle licences. JPJ Deputy Director-General Datuk Jazmanie Shafawi stated the programme, launched in February, reduces financial strain on low-income students while boosting road safety awareness. In Kelantan, 1,000 students from seven public institutions received free Class B2 licences in the first phase, he said. The second ..

BUKIT MERTAJAM : Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek has assured parents that all fully residential schools in Malaysia remain safe. She emphasised the Ministry of Educations commitment to strengthening safety measures for a secure learning environment. I want to assure parents that these schools remain safe and we are continuously strengthening safety measures and making improvements in all aspects, she said. Fadhlina addressed concerns following Kinabatangan MP Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radins ..

KUALA LUMPUR : Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has firmly stated that hooliganism and violence have no place in sports, especially football. He stressed that sports should unite Malaysians rather than divide them through unruly behaviour. Everyone supports their team or their state or their province, but that does not allow them to create chaos and tolerate hooliganism. So well make a difference. Dont import that culture of hooliganism in sports as you read and see and watch on ..

KUALA LUMPUR : Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for the Olympic House project to be completed earlier than its planned 2028 deadline. The new Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) headquarters is being developed by Malaysian Resources Corporation Berhad (MRCB) at Kuala Lumpur Sports City in Bukit Jalil. Anwar expressed enthusiasm for the project during its groundbreaking ceremony, praising OCM president Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria for his leadership. This project signifies ..

SEREMBAN : The Negeri Sembilan Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (NCID) destroyed drug-related evidence worth RM6.725 million today. The evidence included 21,075 grammes of ecstasy pills valued at RM3.5 million. Other items disposed of were 89,921 grammes of methamphetamine worth RM2.91 million. Ketamine weighing 1277.34 grammes (RM105,468) and 5,428.9 grammes of heroin (RM58,722) were also destroyed. Additionally, 33.46 grammes of vape liquid (RM33,470) were disposed of. Negeri Sembilan ..