Day: April 10, 2026

Calls For Action Against Rafizi: PM Anwar Says Focus On Economy First

KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged all parties to focus on economic issues facing the country rather than internal political matters. Anwar, who is also PKR president, said this includes calls by several party leaders for action to be taken against former PKR deputy president Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli. “It is okay. I advise them to remain calm and focus on economic issues facing the country, which are far more serious than personal matters,” he told reporters after performing Friday prayers and solat hajat at Masjid Nurussaadah here today. Previously, several party leaders, including PKR Central Leadership Council member A. Kumaresan, had called for action to be taken against Rafizi, alleging that the Pandan MP was undermining the party. Earlier, Rafizi challenged PKR to sack him when defending several statements he made against the party leadership, which were listed in the second show-cause letter issued yesterday. Rafizi has reportedly been vocal in criticising the government and PKR since stepping down as PKR deputy president and resigning as economy minister in May last year.

KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged all parties to focus on economic issues facing the country rather than internal political matters. Anwar, who is also PKR president, said this includes calls by several party leaders for action to be taken against former PKR deputy president Datuk Seri Rafizi […]

Targeted Subsidies Shield The Public From Global Energy Crisis Impact – Amir Hamzah

KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 -- The government has created a buffer by maintaining targeted subsidies for RON95 and diesel at fixed prices, while aligning the prices of non-subsidised fuel with market rates to shield the public from the direct impact of the global energy crisis. Finance Minister II Amir Hamzah Azizan said the measure is crucial to protect critical sectors, including fishermen, public transport and eligible logistics vehicles, which continue to enjoy diesel at controlled rates. “Critical sectors that still benefit from subsidised diesel, such as fishermen, continue to receive diesel at RM1.65. “For land public transport vehicles, including school and express buses, ambulances and fire engines, the price is RM1.88 per litre, while eligible logistics vehicles and users in Sabah and Sarawak pay RM2.15 per litre,” he said at a global energy crisis briefing today. He said current global price pressures stem from low supply relative to high demand, security threats, as well as rising shipping and insurance costs. Amir Hamzah said Malaysia’s fuel supply is more robust compared with other countries, with Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) and several other oil companies managing the nation’s resources responsibly. “We can see this through petrol stations that continue to operate. Malaysians can still purchase fuel. Some countries have already imposed rationing, and hundreds of petrol stations elsewhere have been closed due to supply shortages,” he said. He said the crisis should be viewed as an opportunity for Malaysia to continue strengthening its economic resilience and to seize the chance to become a more dynamic and progressive society. “The people play an important role. This is the time for us to set aside our differences and choose unity in facing the crisis, including practising moderation in our daily lives. “The government’s priority at this time is to ensure sufficient supply of fuel, energy, essential goods and medicines for the rakyat. At the same time, the government is striving to safeguard the national economy and protect the people,” he said.

KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 — The government has created a buffer by maintaining targeted subsidies for RON95 and diesel at fixed prices, while aligning the prices of non-subsidised fuel with market rates to shield the public from the direct impact of the global energy crisis. Finance Minister II Amir Hamzah Azizan said the measure is […]

One Malaysian Ship Has Safely Passed Through The Straits Of Hormuz – PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced that one of the seven ships previously stranded in the Strait of Hormuz has safely passed through the waters and is now heading to Malaysia. Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said six more ships are seeking approval and are waiting for their turn to pass through the important trade route. The Prime Minister said he was informed of the matter through a briefing by Petronas group president and chief executive officer Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik Tengku Aziz today. "With this, we hope, God willing, that the oil supply for April and May will be very well under control," he told reporters after performing Friday prayers at Nurussaadah Mosque here, today.

KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced that one of the seven ships previously stranded in the Strait of Hormuz has safely passed through the waters and is now heading to Malaysia. Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said six more ships are seeking approval and are waiting […]

UMNO Among ASEAN’s Oldest Political Parties As It Turns 80 – Ahmad Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 -- UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said UMNO, which is approaching its 80th anniversary, remains one of the oldest political parties in the Southeast Asian (ASEAN) region, with a legacy of struggle that reflects resilience and a key role in national development. The Deputy Prime Minister said that throughout its long history, UMNO has undergone various phases of struggle and shifts in the political landscape, reflecting its experience, resilience and key role in national development. "As time passes, efforts to produce capable leaders are very important to ensure the continuity of the struggle and remain relevant in the future," he posted on Facebook today. Ahmad Zahid, who is also Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman, posted this in conjunction with UMNO's 80th anniversary. According to the post, UMNO, which was founded in 1946, will reach eight decades this year, putting it on par with several long-established political parties in ASEAN, including Thailand's Democrat Party, as well as Singapore's People's Action Party, which is 70 years old, and Indonesia's Golkar Party, which is 60 years old.

KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 — UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said UMNO, which is approaching its 80th anniversary, remains one of the oldest political parties in the Southeast Asian (ASEAN) region, with a legacy of struggle that reflects resilience and a key role in national development. The Deputy Prime Minister said that […]

Malaysia to Accelerate Transition to AI City Model – PM Anwar

PUTRAJAYA,10 April -- Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has underscored the urgency of transitioning Malaysia’s urban development strategy from Smart Cities to a more advanced AI City model, describing it as a important milestone in the nation’s aspiration to become a leading AI-driven country. Chairing a special meeting on the research and coordination of the AI City model implementation, Anwar said Malaysia is now at a critical juncture that requires a more strategic and forward-looking approach to urban planning and governance. “This shift goes beyond the adoption of new technologies. It requires a comprehensive transformation in how we plan, administer, and manage our cities to be more efficient, resilient, and data-driven,” he said in a statement. Anwar stressed that the success of the AI City initiative hinges on the development of a robust ecosystem, including secure artificial intelligence and data governance frameworks, high-capacity digital infrastructure, and the cultivation of local talent. He added that strong policy frameworks will also be essential to support responsible innovation while ensuring public trust and accountability. The meeting agreed that the Ministry of Digital Malaysia will serve as the main coordinating body, working closely with relevant ministries and agencies to drive the initiative forward. “The government will continue to strengthen synergy across all stakeholders to ensure effective and high-impact implementation, ultimately benefiting the rakyat and enhancing Malaysia’s competitiveness as a global AI nation,” he said. The move reflects Malaysia’s broader ambition to position itself at the forefront of digital transformation and artificial intelligence development in the region. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Photo: FB Anwar Ibrahim

PUTRAJAYA,10 April — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has underscored the urgency of transitioning Malaysia’s urban development strategy from Smart Cities to a more advanced AI City model, describing it as a important milestone in the nation’s aspiration to become a leading AI-driven country. Chairing a special meeting on the research and coordination of the AI […]

MFL plans roundtable meeting with all M-League club CEOs

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Football League (MFL) aims to hold a roundtable meeting involving all chief executive officers (CEOs) of Malaysian League (M-League) clubs and relevant stakeholders in the near future. MFL CEO Mohd Shazli Shaik Mohd said previous plans were delayed due to several unavoidable circumstances. He, however, said the MFL remained open to suggestions and views submitted by clubs to discuss the direction and resolution of current issues in the league. "Actually, we already had plans to meet with the CEOs of this club. However, as everyone knows, several things are happening that have caused it to be postponed." "...but, when there are requests and views from the club, we are very open. God willing, MFL will hold a meeting with all the CEOs of this club, including shareholders and board members in the near future," he said when met after the collaboration ceremony between Konami and MFL here today. Mohd Shazli said his party is currently examining the suitability of the date to ensure that the attendance of all stakeholders can be well coordinated. He expects the meeting to be realized before the end of April. Meanwhile, Mohd Shazli, when commenting on the notion that the proposal to hold a roundtable meeting depicted the M-League being in a dire situation, stressed that the actual situation was not like that. He said the implementation of the Financial Fair Play (FFP) Regulations, which is now entering its first year, still needs time to show its overall impact on the stability of the league. "La Liga (Spanish League) took five years to really stabilize their league, while we are only in the first year and the process is still ongoing. However, we can already see many positive developments as a result of the implementation of this FFP. "So, for me at the MFL, we do not see this situation as dire or that the league is heading towards decline. On the contrary, this meeting is a good platform for us to hear the voices of the clubs and subsequently improve the matters raised," he said. Recently, several clubs have called for serious discussions to be held, including the possibility of organising a roundtable session involving all M-League stakeholders, especially following the increasingly worrying financial situation among most teams. Selangor FC, Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT), Negeri Sembilan FC, Terengganu FC, Penang FC and Sabah FC are among the clubs that support the proposal to hold the roundtable session. Among the recurring issues affecting the M-League are the delays in paying salaries to players and team officials by several clubs, as well as the challenge of increasing operating costs, exacerbated by the effects of ongoing tensions in West Asia.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Football League (MFL) aims to hold a roundtable meeting involving all chief executive officers (CEOs) of Malaysian League (M-League) clubs and relevant stakeholders in the near future. MFL CEO Mohd Shazli Shaik Mohd said previous plans were delayed due to several unavoidable circumstances. He, however, said the MFL remained open to […]

NADMA committed to implementing cloud seeding to ensure safe dam levels

SUBANG: The National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) is ready to implement Operation Cloud Seeding (OPA) nationwide based on the state government's request in an effort to ensure that dam water levels remain stable following the current hot weather. ​NADMA Deputy Director-General (Operations) Datuk Abdul Gapar Abu Bakar said each application submitted through the State Disaster Management Committee (JPBN) will be thoroughly assessed before operations are carried out. "We will consider each application, for example if the state of Perlis submits an application and at the same time, Kedah is also facing the same issue, so we will implement it all at once. Usually, if there is an application, we will implement it," he told Bernama. He said this when participating in an OPA flight for the Melaka and Johor areas using a C130-Hercules aircraft belonging to the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), yesterday. The flight was also accompanied by the Deputy Director-General (Operations) of the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) Ambun Dindang and a Bernama representative, as part of the OPA involving four states, namely Perlis, Kedah, Perak and Johor which began last Monday. Abdul Gapar said that over the past three years, NADMA together with related agencies including MetMalaysia, RMAF, Public Works Department and Irrigation and Drainage Department have implemented 21 series of OPAs nationwide. Of this total, 11 operations were carried out in 2024, one operation in 2025 and nine operations this year involving several major dams, including the Bukit Merah Dam in Perak, Muda Dam (Kedah), Machap Dam (Johor) and Timah Tasoh Dam (Perlis). "Alhamdulillah, I can say that through every operation we carried out, rain was successfully produced and helped increase the dam water level back to normal," he said. For the next operation this year, he said NADMA received initial information about the need to implement OPA in Sabah and Sarawak following the fact that several areas in the regions began to experience dry weather. Abdul Gapar said the hot and dry weather conditions were expected to last until May or June, following the transition from the Northeast Monsoon which ended last March to the Southwest Monsoon. Meanwhile, Ambun said the success of OPA depends on three main atmospheric factors, namely the existence of towering cumulus clouds, weak winds from various directions and high levels of air humidity. "The most important thing is the existence of cumulus tower clouds because we will spray a salt solution into the cloud and hopefully it will become a rain cloud that can cause rainfall in the dam area," he said. He said OPA uses salt water spraying techniques prepared in four tanks with a total capacity of 6,000 litres and the operational process takes between eight and nine hours starting with the preparation of the solution, crew briefing, flight to the target location and spraying at an altitude of between 5,200 and 7,000 feet. He said the effects of water droplet formation in the clouds could be seen as early as half an hour to an hour after spraying and were expected to fall as rain within one to two hours with a success rate of 80 percent. However, Ambun admitted that the operation faced major challenges, especially in identifying suitable clouds during hot weather, as well as sudden changes in wind direction which could cause rain to stray from the target area. He also dispelled confusion regarding the use of dangerous chemicals in the operation by emphasizing that the operation merely imitates the natural process of condensation of salt molecules from the sea to land and only uses normal saline solution. "We just want to add the salt solution so that the rain will fall faster and in the target area. That's it. It is not dangerous because the salt we use is the salt we eat every day," he said.

SUBANG: The National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) is ready to implement Operation Cloud Seeding (OPA) nationwide based on the state government’s request in an effort to ensure that dam water levels remain stable following the current hot weather. ​NADMA Deputy Director-General (Operations) Datuk Abdul Gapar Abu Bakar said each application submitted through the State Disaster […]

Government Strengthens Strategic Cooperation with DPMM – Dato Seri Ramanan

KUALA LUMPUR, 10 April -- Minister of Human Resources R. Ramanan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation with the Malay business community following a meeting with a delegation from the Dewan Perniagaan Melayu Malaysia (DPMM). The delegation was led by its President, Norsyahrin Hamidon, in what was described as a meaningful and constructive discussion. According to Ramanan, the meeting provided an important platform to exchange views on enhancing collaboration between the government and the Malay entrepreneurial community, particularly in expanding access to training facilities and strengthening strategic partnerships between ministries and business chambers. “The views, proposals, and aspirations shared by DPMM are greatly appreciated and will be taken into consideration in shaping more effective policies and initiatives,” he said. He also stressed that the commitment of the Kerajaan MADANI remains clear in ensuring that the empowerment of the local workforce continues to be strengthened in an inclusive, sustainable, and high-impact manner. He added that these ongoing efforts are crucial in supporting stronger economic growth and delivering broad-based benefits to the people. --Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris --Photo: FB Ramanan

KUALA LUMPUR, 10 April — Minister of Human Resources R. Ramanan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation with the Malay business community following a meeting with a delegation from the Dewan Perniagaan Melayu Malaysia (DPMM). The delegation was led by its President, Norsyahrin Hamidon, in what was described as a meaningful and constructive […]

Malaysia Urged To Strengthen ASEAN Centrality Amid Global Uncertainties

KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 -- Malaysia must continue to strengthen the concept of ASEAN Centrality and ASEAN Vision 2045 as catalysts for regional cooperation in facing increasingly challenging global geopolitical uncertainties, particularly conflicts in West Asia, according to experts. Cyber warfare expert and security and political analyst at the Centre for Media and Information Warfare Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Dr Noor Nirwandy Mat Noordin, said that although ASEAN was not a military-based alliance, it played a significant role in maintaining stability through continuous and principled diplomatic approaches. He said the approach was crucial to ensure ASEAN member states remained united and capable of acting collectively in addressing external pressures, including geopolitical conflicts and major power rivalries. “Malaysia is capable of steering this diplomatic approach to ensure alignment in thinking among ASEAN leaders, thereby making the ASEAN Centrality concept a fundamental bulwark against regional threats,” he told Bernama. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had previously stressed that Malaysia must adopt a prudent diplomatic approach in facing global economic uncertainties that affected supply chains and commodity prices. The Prime Minister said that while Malaysia maintained a firm stance on international issues, trade and economic relations with major world powers must be managed strategically, while maintaining good ties with various countries without compromising national interests. Elaborating further, Noor Nirwandy said Malaysia must maintain a neutral policy as the foundation of its international relations, while strengthening national defence in terms of mindset, assets and overall defence cohesion. “However, the most important aspect is diplomacy and ASEAN unity as the region’s main strength,” he said, stressing that strong diplomatic capabilities could prevent tensions from escalating into open conflict. He emphasised that efforts to strengthen national resilience should not only focus externally, but must also be supported by internal strength, including unity among the people and social cohesion. “A security-oriented mindset (awareness in managing security risks to protect the nation) will prevent unnecessary debates over trivial issues amid challenging geopolitical and economic uncertainties,” he said. According to Noor Nirwandy, the government must also empower society through a strategic communication plan based on patriotism and national unity, while producing more leaders who serve as agents of unity. “Concepts such as ‘Malaysia MADANI’ and unity of thought grounded in patriotism must be strengthened with the support of leaders and community figures to ensure the people are better prepared to face any unexpected challenges, including global economic crises or regional conflicts, without affecting national stability. “Malaysia currently has strong political resilience, but society must continue to support national development and build a security mindset. Politicians, whether from the government or opposition, must prioritise national security issues and geopolitical threats with a more unified approach,” he said. Noor Nirwandy added that Malaysia could remain a peaceful, stable and resilient nation amid global uncertainties through a combination of diplomatic strength, neutrality and strong national unity. Meanwhile, a lecturer at the Centre for Social Sciences Studies, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Prof Datuk Dr P. Sivamurugan, said Malaysia, as a small and medium-sized country, must act wisely and not rely solely on vocal assertiveness. He said key strategies included practising a neutral policy to ensure Malaysia remained balanced in its relations with major powers, while strengthening economic diversification efforts to reduce reliance on specific sectors and enhance resilience against external shocks. He added that strengthening food and energy security should be prioritised to ensure a stable and sustainable supply, while multilateral diplomacy must be reinforced with ASEAN as a collective safeguard in maintaining stability. “Domestic unity must also continue to be strengthened to avoid political divisions and ensure national stability is preserved. “Small nations do not prevail through strength, but through wisdom and balance,” he said, stressing the importance of a cautious yet effective strategic approach. While noting that Malaysia had strong political resilience based on a mature democratic system, functioning institutions, a diversified economy and experience in managing past crises, Sivamurugan said risks such as political and ethnic polarisation, internal instability that could be manipulated, and public political fatigue could undermine national resilience. -- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 — Malaysia must continue to strengthen the concept of ASEAN Centrality and ASEAN Vision 2045 as catalysts for regional cooperation in facing increasingly challenging global geopolitical uncertainties, particularly conflicts in West Asia, according to experts. Cyber warfare expert and security and political analyst at the Centre for Media and Information Warfare […]

Malaysia Strengthens Digital Cooperation with Sweden and EU

KUALA LUMPUR,10 APRIL — Communications Minister Gobind Singh Deo today highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to advancing its digital transformation agenda following a courtesy call from Niklas Wiberg, Ambassador of Sweden to Malaysia, and Rafael Daerr, Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Malaysia. In a statement, Gobind said the meeting underscored the strong and longstanding ties Malaysia shares with Sweden and the EU, with discussions focusing on key areas of mutual interest including the rollout of 5G infrastructure and Malaysia’s growing role in the region’s artificial intelligence (AI) landscape. “We had a productive exchange on Malaysia’s progress in digital development, particularly in accelerating 5G deployment and positioning the country as a regional leader in AI,” he said. The discussions also touched on several policy developments, including Malaysia’s National AI Regulatory Framework, the proposed National AI Act, and the forthcoming AI Governance Bill. These initiatives are part of the government’s broader effort to ensure responsible, secure, and inclusive adoption of AI technologies. Gobind noted that collaboration with international partners remains crucial as Malaysia navigates the complexities of the digital age. “As we continue to strengthen our digital ecosystem, partnerships with countries like Sweden and institutions such as the EU will play an important role in driving innovation and delivering tangible benefits to the rakyat,” he added. The meeting reflects Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to foster strategic global partnerships while advancing its national digital agenda. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Photo: FB Gobind Singh Deo

KUALA LUMPUR,10 APRIL — Communications Minister Gobind Singh Deo today highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to advancing its digital transformation agenda following a courtesy call from Niklas Wiberg, Ambassador of Sweden to Malaysia, and Rafael Daerr, Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Malaysia. In a statement, Gobind said the meeting underscored the strong and longstanding ties […]