Day: April 11, 2026

World Cup: FIFA rejects Iran’s request to move match to Mexico

MEXICO CITY: The International Football Federation (FIFA) has decided not to move a World Cup match involving the Iranian team from the United States (US) to Mexico, despite the conflict in West Asia. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said this on Friday in a press conference, according to a report by the German News Agency (dpa). Iran has requested not to play in three group stage matches in the US following the US and Israeli attacks on Feb 28. Although the fighting has been halted by a fragile ceasefire, Washington has warned of further attacks. "FIFA ultimately decided that the match could not be moved from the original venue," Sheinbaum said. According to him, from FIFA's perspective, the move would involve "a very large logistical effort." World football's governing body had previously expressed doubts about Iran's request to move matches against Belgium, New Zealand and Egypt at the World Cup, which is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19 in the US, Mexico and Canada. FIFA President Gianni Infantino previously insisted that Iran should continue to participate despite tense relations between Tehran and Washington. "We want Iran to play and Iran will play in the World Cup. There is no Plan B, C or D – there is only Plan A," Infantino told Mexican broadcaster N+ Univision two weeks ago. Iran Football Federation President Mehdi Taj recently stated that the team was boycotting the US, but not the World Cup, without elaborating on the details, the state news agency IRNA reported. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump described Iran's involvement as "inappropriate" due to "their own lives and safety." Amid a ceasefire that began Tuesday, talks between the US and Iran for a lasting peace settlement are scheduled to take place in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, on Friday. Iran has previously launched retaliatory strikes after attacks by the US and Israel, including targeting Gulf countries and closing the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route.

MEXICO CITY: The International Football Federation (FIFA) has decided not to move a World Cup match involving the Iranian team from the United States (US) to Mexico, despite the conflict in West Asia. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said this on Friday in a press conference, according to a report by the German News Agency (dpa). […]

RM30,000 Contribution Recognises Services Of RTM Veterans – Datuk Fahmi

KUALA LUMPUR, April 11 -- A total of RM30,000 has been contributed to Persatuan Veteran Radio Televisyen Malaysia (PVRTM) to support the association’s activities and the welfare of its members. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the contribution was a gesture of appreciation for the services and dedication of RTM veterans who have significantly shaped the nation’s broadcasting history. “I very much welcome and support the efforts of our colleagues in PVRTM, who are seen to be increasingly active. I still remember that in the early days, the PVRTM office was located under a staircase, but now we have expanded and improved those facilities. “They now have a more comfortable space, and I will continue to provide support, including financially, almost every year,” he told reporters after attending the PVRTM Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration at a hotel here today. Also present was Director-General of Broadcasting Ashwad Ismail. Meanwhile, Fahmi also proposed that special programmes be organised involving PVRTM in conjunction with the upcoming 80th anniversary celebration of Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM). “Many of these veterans are from the same era as my parents and uncles, dating back to the days of Radio Malaya. They are part of the nation’s broadcasting history, so I hope that in conjunction with RTM’s 80th anniversary, several special programmes can be held with PVRTM,” he said.

KUALA LUMPUR, April 11 — A total of RM30,000 has been contributed to Persatuan Veteran Radio Televisyen Malaysia (PVRTM) to support the association’s activities and the welfare of its members. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the contribution was a gesture of appreciation for the services and dedication of RTM veterans who have significantly shaped […]

Malik Streams News Report: “Jananayagan” Leak Sparks Strong Anti-Piracy Stand

The recent circulation of alleged leaked scenes from Jananayagan has triggered a wave of concern across fans, creators, and industry insiders. While curiosity around unreleased footage often spreads quickly online, Malik Streams is taking a firm and clear stance: leaked scenes are piracy—and piracy undermines the very foundation of creative work. “No support. No sharing. No compromise.” That message is now being echoed widely across social platforms, as audiences are reminded that every frame of a film represents countless hours of dedication, craftsmanship, and passion. From actors and directors to editors and technicians, entire teams invest months—sometimes years—into bringing a story to life. The unauthorized leak of scenes doesn’t just spoil the viewing experience; it directly affects the livelihoods of those involved. Industry experts point out that leaks can damage box office performance, disrupt marketing strategies, and diminish the emotional impact carefully planned by filmmakers. Fans of Jananayagan have begun rallying around the idea of ethical viewing, encouraging others to avoid engaging with pirated content. The movement emphasizes a simple but powerful choice: support, not steal. Malik Streams reinforces that real appreciation for cinema goes beyond hype—it’s about respecting the effort behind the art. As the conversation grows, one thing is becoming clear: audiences are not just consumers anymore; they are active participants in shaping a culture that either protects or harms creative industries. The message stands strong—behind every frame is hard work and passion.

The recent circulation of alleged leaked scenes from Jananayagan has triggered a wave of concern across fans, creators, and industry insiders. While curiosity around unreleased footage often spreads quickly online, Malik Streams is taking a firm and clear stance: leaked scenes are piracy—and piracy undermines the very foundation of creative work. “No support. No sharing. […]

Songkran 2026 In Malaysia Emphasises Mindful Celebration, Stronger Thai-Malaysian Relations

PETALING JAYA -- Malaysia’s Premier Songkran Festival 2026 offers a platform to strengthen long-standing people-to-people and cultural ties between Malaysia and Thailand as both countries mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027. Thailand’s Ambassador to Malaysia Lada Phumas said the 11-day festival, held from April 9 to 19, also serves as a vibrant showcase of Thailand’s tourism and creative economy, reflecting its broader push to position itself as a key strategic player on the global stage. “While we are bringing the spirit of Songkran and authentic Thai offerings to Malaysia, I would also like to invite our Malaysian and international friends to experience Songkran traditions in Thailand. “Let us use this festival to strengthen the people-to-people and cultural ties that have bound us for decades, as we join hands on our journey towards the 70th anniversary of Thailand-Malaysia diplomatic relations next year,” she said at the official launch of the festival on Friday. Also present were Digital Minister and Damansara Member of Parliament Gobind Singh Deo, ambassadors and high commissioners accredited to Malaysia, as well as members of the ASEAN Ladies’ Circle. Songkran, Thailand’s traditional New Year festival, is celebrated annually from April 13 to 15, marking the start of the Thai New Year. “Songkran in Thailand” was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2023. Lada said this year’s festival emphasises experiencing Songkran in a more meaningful and sustainable way. “We aim to balance our legendary ‘sanuk’, the Thai word for fun, with sustainability and responsibility. From water-splashing festivities to traditions such as pouring water on elders and traditional Songkran dances, a vibrant showcase of Thai music and performances awaits visitors. “As Songkran symbolises renewal and family unity, we hope the celebration, especially amid current global challenges, will embrace mindful practices, from the responsible use of water to energy conservation, ensuring that our traditions are preserved for future generations,” she said. She said the Royal Thai Embassy has been actively enhancing bilateral cooperation through cultural programmes, economic forums and strategic dialogues, while advancing initiatives to support trade, tourism and people-to-people connectivity. Malaysia’s Premier Songkran Festival 2026 at 1 Utama Shopping Centre is one of the key cultural events that has drawn tens of thousands of visitors annually since its inception, now entering its fourth consecutive year. This year, organisers are projecting a turnout of more than 80,000 visitors, reinforcing its position as a major regional attraction. The festival also offers a Thai street market featuring 50 curated booths, including more than 40 authentic Thai food vendors, alongside desserts, beverages, fashion and lifestyle products, as well as carnival attractions. Festival-goers can indulge in popular Thai favourites such as Pad Thai, tomyam, som tam, mango sticky rice and Thai iced tea, offering an immersive street food experience reminiscent of Bangkok’s vibrant

PETALING JAYA — Malaysia’s Premier Songkran Festival 2026 offers a platform to strengthen long-standing people-to-people and cultural ties between Malaysia and Thailand as both countries mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027. Thailand’s Ambassador to Malaysia Lada Phumas said the 11-day festival, held from April 9 to 19, also serves as a vibrant […]

Ahmad Farhan Tasked With Reclaiming Indera Mahkota Parliamentary Seat For PKR

KUANTAN, April 11 -- Pahang Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) State Leadership Council chairman Datuk Ahmad Farhan Fauzi says he has been entrusted by PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to reclaim the Indera Mahkota parliamentary seat in the 16th General Election (GE16). Ahmad Farhan, who is also the political secretary to the Prime Minister, said the entrustment was a major responsibility that must be shouldered together. “Without the cooperation of all branch members, it would be difficult for us to move forward,” he said when speaking at the Indera Mahkota PKR Division Annual General Meeting here. Meanwhile, Ahmad Farhan, who is also the Indera Mahkota Division chief, said PKR membership in the area had now reached 6,666, with an increase of 1,962 members, and was targeting 10,000 members before the PKR National Congress begins. He said the party remained committed to recapturing the parliamentary seat, based on PKR’s record of victories in the constituency in 2008, 2013 and 2018, which would help the party remain in power in GE16. In GE15, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah defended the Indera Mahkota parliamentary seat under the Bersatu banner with a majority of 8,399 votes, defeating three challengers from Pakatan Harapan, Barisan Nasional and Pejuang. Saifuddin had previously won the Indera Mahkota parliamentary seat representing PKR in 2018. Meanwhile, Ahmad Farhan warned parties attempting to tarnish the image of the party, including those from within its own ranks, as such actions could weaken the party. “Attacking the PKR president is like attacking all of us, and we will oppose any efforts that could divide the party,” he said.

KUANTAN, April 11 — Pahang Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) State Leadership Council chairman Datuk Ahmad Farhan Fauzi says he has been entrusted by PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to reclaim the Indera Mahkota parliamentary seat in the 16th General Election (GE16). Ahmad Farhan, who is also the political secretary to the Prime Minister, said […]

Khairy To Focus On Returning To UMNO, Still Early For Seat Discussion

KEPALA BATAS, April 11 -- Former UMNO Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin's main focus at the moment is on his application to rejoin the party. Therefore, he described any discussion about the seat to be contested in the upcoming general election (GE) as too early. "I think it is too early for us to discuss where to contest (because) I am just in the process of returning, so the matter is not appropriate to discuss," he told reporters after attending the Aidilfitri Open House of Bertam assemblyman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican here tonight. After three years of being expelled from UMNO, Khairy submitted an appeal letter to return to UMNO on March 15. UMNO vice president Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin previously said that the applications of several former UMNO leaders including Sembrong MP Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein and Khairy to rejoin the party would be discussed at the UMNO Supreme Council Meeting (MT) on April 17 based on the spirit of "Rumah Bangsa". Khairy said the determination of candidates and seat distribution by Barisan Nasional (BN) was under the jurisdiction of its chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi who is also UMNO president, hence he did not want to preempt any party decisions. Meanwhile, he said that the wish of former Prime Minister the late Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi who is also a former Kepala Batas MP for the parliamentary seat to continue to be led by an individual he trusted, namely Reezal Merican who is now the chairman of the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), should be respected. “During his lifetime, Pak Lah had advised both of us, me as his son-in-law and Reezal Merican as his political son, to let Reezal take care of Kepala Batas. “So, I will not disrespect his decision and wish. I hope that Reezal Merican will succeed in the GE and be able to reclaim the Kepala Batas parliamentary seat,” he said. In the 15th GE, Reezal Merican failed to defend his Kepala Batas parliamentary seat when he lost to Perikan Nasional (PN) candidate Dr Siti Mastura Muhammad with a majority of 2,867 votes.

KEPALA BATAS, April 11 — Former UMNO Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin’s main focus at the moment is on his application to rejoin the party. Therefore, he described any discussion about the seat to be contested in the upcoming general election (GE) as too early. “I think it is too early for us to discuss where […]