Day: March 31, 2026

Batik Air Relaunches Colombo–Kuala Lumpur Service in Support of Visit Malaysia 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, 31 MARCH 2026 –Batik Air marked the successful relaunch of its Colombo– Kuala Lumpur service yesterday, welcoming the arrival of Flight OD298 at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA Terminal 1), reconnecting Malaysia and Sri Lanka once again. Previously part of the airline’s international network, the Colombo route was suspended in early 2024 as part of a broader network […]

Police Probe Viral Upskirt Recording Incident at Subang Jaya Shopping Premises

SUBANG JAYA, March 31 — Police have launched an investigation following a viral video allegedly showing a male suspect recording or attempting to take photos beneath a customer’s skirt at a shopping premises in Subang Jaya on Saturday. The Subang Jaya District Police Headquarters (IPD) confirmed that a report was lodged on March 29 at 1.16pm regarding the incident, said Subang Jaya OCPD Wan Azlan Wan Mamat in a press statement. Initial investigations revealed that the video had been circulated on social media platforms, including Facebook under the name “Yixin Siew” and Instagram account “yixin_0111”. Authorities believe the suspect was seen holding a mobile phone and engaging in inappropriate behaviour targeting a female shopper inside the premises. Police said investigations are actively underway to identify and locate both the suspect and the victim involved in the case. The case is being investigated under Section 509 of the Penal Code, Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955, and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. The public is advised not to spread or share any videos or recordings that may affect the dignity of the victim or interfere with police investigations. Instead, any information related to the incident should be channelled to the police to assist in the investigation. Members of the public who have any information related to the incident are urged to come forward by visiting the nearest police station or contacting ASP Siti Sarah Johari at 013-209 7958 or the Subang Jaya IPD hotline at 03-7862 7222. -- Minutes MY / Sugan Balan

SUBANG JAYA, March 31 — Police have launched an investigation following a viral video allegedly showing a male suspect recording or attempting to take photos beneath a customer’s skirt at a shopping premises in Subang Jaya on Saturday. The Subang Jaya District Police Headquarters (IPD) confirmed that a report was lodged on March 29 at […]

MyDigital ID to Power Age Verification for Social Media Users in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, March 31 — The proposed use of MyDigital ID is being viewed as a highly effective electronic know-your-customer (eKYC) solution to support Malaysia’s plan to enforce a minimum age of 16 for social media users, expected to roll out in the second half of this year. Malaysian Cyber Consumer Association (MCCA) president Siraj Jalil said a strong and reliable eKYC framework is essential to ensure the policy achieves its goals of protecting children online and reducing the prevalence of fake accounts. He noted that MyDigital ID, a locally developed system with advanced security features under the supervision of the National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA), is well-positioned to serve this purpose. According to him, integrating MyDigital ID into licensing requirements for major social media platforms such as Meta and TikTok would significantly enhance identity verification processes. Siraj added that stricter verification mechanisms would make it harder for underage users to falsify their age, while also enabling authorities to better enforce the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588) against anonymous or fraudulent accounts. Describing the proposed age restriction as a “game changer,” he said the move could greatly improve online safety for children. He also pointed to Indonesia’s recent decision to restrict access to high-risk digital platforms for users below 16 under its Tunas policy, noting that Malaysia’s approach of conducting detailed studies before implementation places it on the right path. However, Siraj emphasised that the success of the policy will depend not only on technology but also on strong parental involvement and improved digital literacy programmes, particularly through initiatives led by the Ministry of Education. He stressed the importance of clear communication with the public, especially students and parents, to prevent confusion or resistance that could undermine the policy’s objectives. Earlier, on March 7, Deputy Communications and Multimedia Minister Teo Nie Ching confirmed that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is currently evaluating various age verification methods ahead of the policy’s enforcement. The government aims to have all social media platforms implement eKYC systems by the end of the second quarter of 2026 as part of broader efforts to enforce the minimum age requirement.

KUALA LUMPUR, March 31 — The proposed use of MyDigital ID is being viewed as a highly effective electronic know-your-customer (eKYC) solution to support Malaysia’s plan to enforce a minimum age of 16 for social media users, expected to roll out in the second half of this year. Malaysian Cyber Consumer Association (MCCA) president Siraj […]

Man With 31 Criminal Records Arrested After KLIA Car Chase

Man With 31 Criminal Records Arrested After KLIA Car Chase

PUTRAJAYA — A police car chase in the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) area yesterday led to the arrest of a local man with 31 prior criminal records. KLIA police chief ACP M. Ravi said the 30-year-old suspect rammed several public vehicles in an attempt to escape while being pursued by a mobile patrol vehicle […]

BNM to pay RM5 billion in dividends to government, total assets RM602.22 billion

"BNM's liabilities consist primarily of currency in circulation (2025: RM177.75 billion; 2024: RM170.72 billion) and deposits by financial institutions (2025: RM118.06 billion; 2024: RM131.92 billion)," said BNM in its 2025 Annual Report released today. For the financial year ended Dec 31, 2025, BNM recorded a net profit of RM12.45 billion (2024: RM13.16 billion), following total income of RM14.35 billion (2024: RM14.98 billion), after deducting costs related to reserve portfolio management and monetary operations. In 2025, BNM spent RM1.86 billion to manage the organization. Of the net profit of RM12.45 billion, RM7.45 billion (2024: RM7.91 billion) will be transferred to the Risk Reserve, which amounts to RM155.31 billion at the end of 2025 (2024: RM147.90 billion). “Given that 85 percent of BNM's assets are denominated in foreign currencies, it is important for BNM to build up adequate Risk Reserves. "This allows BNM to buffer financial market volatility as well as fluctuations in the exchange rate of foreign currency assets," explained BNM.

KUALA LUMPUR — Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) will pay a dividend of RM5 billion to the government for 2025. Total assets as at Dec 31, 2025 stood at RM602.22 billion compared to RM621.54 billion in the previous year, largely reflecting the impact of currency translation following the strengthening of the ringgit. “BNM’s liabilities consist primarily […]

BNM Governor: Strong Economic Foundations Key to Navigating Global Uncertainty

KUALA LUMPUR: Strengthening economic fundamentals and policy buffers in the face of global trade uncertainties is an important step to ensure continued growth and, in turn, guarantee the well-being of the people, said Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) Governor Datuk Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour. He said that improvements in fiscal sustainability and attracting quality investment have created space to continue implementing much-needed reforms in social protection and the labor market. "These reforms may require some short-term adjustments, but these adjustments are necessary to ensure more inclusive growth and provide benefits to the people, including future generations," he said in the BNM 2025 Annual Report released here today. The central bank projects Malaysia's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to grow between four percent and five percent in 2026 as Malaysia's domestic resilience and diversified export structure provide a strong foundation to face external challenges. Malaysia's path towards becoming a high-income developed nation must be built on the foundation of shared prosperity. “We need to build an economy that creates higher-paying jobs, supports households and businesses, and remains resilient for decades to come,” said the Governor. Abdul Rasheed said the financial sector remained effective in moving funds between savers and borrowers. “Financial institutions remain well-capitalized and operationally resilient, supported by more than adequate liquidity buffers and good asset quality. "This ensures continued access to financing for households and businesses, thus supporting consumption, investment and sources of income," he said. Looking ahead, he said in an increasingly fragmented world, ASEAN could be a source of strength. In the face of significant global trade tensions, ASEAN's united commitment to provide a prudent and constructive response reflects this principle. For Malaysia, being part of a region that upholds cooperation and stability is an important core in facing an increasingly complex global landscape. In this regard, BNM is leading efforts to advance more integrated regional financial and economic integration through the Financial Track. The regional payment network continues to expand, with 29 payment networks now operating across ASEAN member countries. “Now, tourists making purchases or small businesses selling products across borders can make and receive payments faster, more securely and at a lower cost. "This development reduces friction, expands opportunities and supports the income sources of the ASEAN community," he said. He said ASEAN's ability to respond collectively to external shocks has also been strengthened, including through the enhancement of the Chiang Mai Multilateralisation Initiative as well as several key strategies under the ASEAN Geoeconomic Task Force. All of these measures strengthen ASEAN's ability to act together against external shocks, thus creating an additional layer of resilience to face global uncertainties. "For BNM, the priority will continue to be on preparedness to face the challenges ahead, without neglecting the long-term priorities of enhancing economic prospects and preserving the country's resilience," he said. Abdul Ghaffour said the Monetary Policy Committee will continue to closely monitor developments and assess the balance of risks to the growth and inflation outlook. "BNM also continues to stand ready, as it has done throughout several episodes of significant uncertainty, to ensure that the market remains orderly and manage the risk of excessive volatility," he said. With the Financial Sector Plan 2022–2026 entering its final phase, implementation will be accelerated in line with efforts to develop the next direction for Malaysia's financial sector. "BNM will implement efforts to further facilitate innovation, including in new areas such as digital finance, stablecoins and climate adaptation in a safe and responsible manner," he said.

KUALA LUMPUR — Strengthening economic fundamentals and policy buffers remains crucial for Malaysia to sustain growth and safeguard public well-being amid global trade uncertainties, said Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour, Governor of Bank Negara Malaysia. Speaking in conjunction with the release of the BNM 2025 Annual Report, he highlighted that ongoing improvements in fiscal sustainability and the […]

SPM 2025: 366,435 candidates qualify for certificate, an increase of 0.28 percent

PUTRAJAYA: A total of 366,435 candidates (94.29 percent) are eligible to be awarded the Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) certificate in 2025. Director-General of Education, Datuk Mohd Azam Ahmad announced the examination results with encouraging results, as the number of qualified candidates increased compared to the previous year. He said the number showed an increase of 10,502 candidates (0.28 per cent) compared to 355,933 candidates (94.01 per cent) in SPM 2024. For candidates from the Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE) schools, a total of 329,272 candidates (94.51 percent) are eligible to be awarded the SPM certificate in 2025, compared to 319,016 candidates (94.20 percent) in 2024, an increase of 10,256 candidates (0.31 percent). "Analysis of the 2025 SPM examination results shows encouraging achievements by candidates. This achievement reflects the effectiveness of the continuous efforts of the Malaysian Ministry of Education to ensure that the national education system remains of high quality, inclusive and provides fair opportunities to all candidates nationwide," he said. He said this at a press conference announcing the 2025 SPM results, here, on Tuesday. He also stressed that in line with the country's development aspirations, the Ministry of Education will continue to strengthen the implementation of various education reform initiatives to support the progressive and sustainable development agenda of Malaysia Madani. "This effort is important to produce a holistic, knowledgeable, competitive and morally upright generation," he said.

PUTRAJAYA: A total of 366,435 candidates (94.29 percent) are eligible to be awarded the Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) certificate in 2025. Director-General of Education, Datuk Mohd Azam Ahmad announced the examination results with encouraging results, as the number of qualified candidates increased compared to the previous year. He said the number showed an increase […]

Malaysian Leaders Urge SPM 2025 Candidates to Embrace Results and Plan Future Wisely

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, has called on the 413,299 candidates of the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) 2025 examination to accept their results with an open heart, describing them as just the beginning of a longer journey toward building their future. In a message shared on his official Facebook page, Ahmad Zahid emphasized that examination outcomes should be viewed as a starting point rather than a final destination. He encouraged students to remain resilient and forward-looking regardless of their results. He also reminded candidates to express gratitude to those who supported them throughout their academic journey, including parents, guardians, family members, and teachers. “Success achieved today is the result of their prayers and sacrifices,” he said. Ahmad Zahid further advised students to carefully consider their next steps and explore opportunities in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), highlighting it as a viable pathway for building a successful career. “Keep moving forward. Choose your path wisely. God willing, TVET will always provide opportunities to shape your future,” he added. Meanwhile, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek also congratulated all SPM 2025 candidates in a video shared on social media. She described their achievements as a gateway to broader opportunities and a brighter future. “Stay motivated and continue striving to pursue knowledge at higher levels and achieve your dreams,” she said. Fadhlina also expressed her appreciation to teachers across the country for their dedication, patience, and commitment in educating students from primary through secondary levels. A total of 413,299 candidates nationwide received their SPM 2025 results, which were officially released today.

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, has called on the 413,299 candidates of the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) 2025 examination to accept their results with an open heart, describing them as just the beginning of a longer journey toward building their future. In a message shared on his official Facebook page, […]

Nurul Izzah Dismisses Resignation Rumours, Affirms Role as PKR Deputy President

KUALA LUMPUR, March 30 — Nurul Izzah Anwar has firmly denied circulating claims that she has stepped down as Deputy President of People’s Justice Party (PKR). The former Permatang Pauh Member of Parliament described the allegations as baseless, stressing that she remains in her position and will continue to carry out the mandate entrusted to her in accordance with party responsibilities and established processes. “I remain committed to fulfilling this trust in line with the party’s responsibilities and processes, and there are no changes to the current leadership structure,” she said in a statement issued tonight. She also urged the public not to be swayed by unverified information circulating online, encouraging them instead to refer to official party channels for accurate updates. Speculation about her alleged resignation recently went viral on social media, triggering mixed reactions among party members and observers. Nurul Izzah Anwar, who is also the daughter of PKR president Anwar Ibrahim, was elected as Deputy President for the 2025–2028 term after defeating incumbent Rafizi Ramli in a straight contest during last year’s party elections.

KUALA LUMPUR — Nurul Izzah Anwar has firmly denied circulating claims that she has stepped down as Deputy President of People’s Justice Party (PKR). The former Permatang Pauh Member of Parliament described the allegations as baseless, stressing that she remains in her position and will continue to carry out the mandate entrusted to her in […]

Raja Muda of Perak Visits Putrajaya, Discusses Development and Public Welfare

PUTRAJAYA, March 31 — The Raja Muda of Perak, Raja Jaafar Ibni Almarhum Raja Muda Musa, graced Putrajaya with a royal visit today, underscoring the continued role of the monarchy in supporting national and state development. During the visit, discussions were held on a range of key issues concerning development and the well-being of the people, particularly those involving the state of Perak. The engagement provided an opportunity for an exchange of views on initiatives aimed at enhancing public welfare. Among the matters highlighted were economic growth and education, reflecting the Raja Muda’s strong commitment and concern toward strengthening the state’s progress while unlocking the full potential of its people. The visit also symbolised the important role of the royal institution in complementing development efforts and promoting the welfare of citizens. In expressing appreciation for the royal presence, prayers were extended for the Raja Muda’s continued good health and success in carrying out his responsibilities in safeguarding the interests of the people and the state.

PUTRAJAYA — The Raja Muda of Perak, Raja Jaafar Ibni Almarhum Raja Muda Musa, graced Putrajaya with a royal visit today, underscoring the continued role of the monarchy in supporting national and state development. During the visit, discussions were held on a range of key issues concerning development and the well-being of the people, particularly […]