Day: May 6, 2026

3R: Improve the legal system to face the challenges of social media – SekPur

KUALA LUMPUR: The country's legal framework relating to issues of religion, race and royal institutions (3Rs) requires more dynamic improvements to address the increasingly complex trend of social media abuse. Head of the Political Bureau of the People's Social Media Movement Secretariat (SekPur), Shahbudin Embon, said the existing approach needed to be refined to ensure that the justice system was not only punitive, but also capable of providing meaningful lessons to society. He said the provisions under the Sedition Act 1948 with a maximum fine of RM5,000 currently appear to be out of line with the impact of damage that can be caused by posts that go viral on social media. "This step to strengthen the law, including considering mandatory prison sentences for serious cases involving the sovereignty of the monarchy, is necessary to reflect the importance of preserving national harmony," he said at a press conference here yesterday. Shahbudin suggested that the scope of legal protection be reviewed to also include the country's main leadership institutions, including the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, to curb the culture of excessive provocation solely for the sake of digital content. He also suggested closer cooperation between the authorities and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) in monitoring the activities of fake accounts which are often the cause of racial and religious tension. "Taking lessons from legal practices in neighboring countries such as Thailand and Indonesia, the strictness of the law there has proven to be an important instrument in preserving the dignity of the highest institutions of their respective countries," he said. Based on existing legal provisions, individuals convicted of incitement through speech or publication for the first time can be sentenced to a maximum fine of RM5,000, and imprisonment for up to three years, or both. The provision includes actions through various platforms as an effort to curb incitement elements that threaten public order. -- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR: The country’s legal framework relating to issues of religion, race and royal institutions (3Rs) requires more dynamic improvements to address the increasingly complex trend of social media abuse. Head of the Political Bureau of the People’s Social Media Movement Secretariat (SekPur), Shahbudin Embon, said the existing approach needed to be refined to ensure […]

New Saudi ambassador stresses strengthening bilateral ties, Hajj commitment, regional outlook

KUALA LUMPUR: The newly appointed Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Malaysia, who began working in the country in January, recently shared his initial views and priorities in an exclusive interview with the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama). In the interview, Osamah Dakhdel Al Ahmadi commented on the continued progress of Malaysia-Saudi Arabia relations which is strengthened by strong political will as well as growing economic cooperation, particularly in line with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. He reaffirmed the Saudi Arabian government's continued commitment to improving services to pilgrims, including those from Malaysia, in addition to outlining the country's diplomatic approach to regional developments by emphasizing stability, restraint and dialogue. Personally, he also expressed his appreciation for Malaysia's culinary diversity, especially beef jerky which is one of his favorite dishes. Below is the full transcript of the interview with Bernama. Malaysia-Saudi Arabia economic relations: How do you assess the current business and investment relations between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia? Are there any new sectors or opportunities that should be explored by both sides? Saudi Arabia-Malaysia relations are witnessing rapid substantive development, reflecting the determination of the leadership of both countries to elevate relations to a broader and stronger level. The most recent exchange of official visits, the visit of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in 2023-2024 and the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim to Saudi Arabia in November 2025, has contributed to creating stronger and deeper relations. During the visit, emphasis was placed on strengthening cooperation in priority sectors by leveraging investment opportunities offered through Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and Malaysia's Vision MADANI, building on the achievements of the Saudi-Malaysia Coordination Council (SMCC), as well as developing partnerships in various areas that serve the interests of both countries. The two brotherly countries enjoy strong relations and growing political and economic ties, and are committed to continuing this positive path that reflects a shared desire to expand areas of cooperation, enhance mutual trust, and propel relations to broader horizons in the coming phase. Economic cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Malaysia offers broad and growing opportunities, particularly through the conducive environment for quality projects and value-added investments provided by Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. There is growing interest in developing partnerships in the areas of investment, renewable energy, industry, construction, tourism, logistics and modern technology - sectors in which companies in both countries have their own expertise and which represent priorities in the economic transformation process. This ambition is not limited to increasing the volume of trade exchanges, but also includes building sustainable partnerships based on the transfer of expertise, stimulating joint investments and developing joint projects that benefit both countries. Hajj Preparations: With the Hajj season approaching, how are preparations progressing this year? What assurances can you offer pilgrims, especially regarding safety, logistics and the overall experience? Serving pilgrims is a deep-rooted mission and a primary responsibility of Saudi Arabia, which receives constant attention from its leadership. It is not just a seasonal organizational aspect, but rather an integral part of a comprehensive vision that aims to facilitate the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage and improve the quality of services provided to them at every stage. Saudi Arabia continues to improve services, organizational infrastructure and technology to provide a more convenient, reassuring and comfortable environment for pilgrims from all over the world, including Malaysia. Saudi Arabia launched the "Makkah Route" initiative which allows pilgrims to complete entry procedures at their respective country's airports before proceeding to their accommodation. The initiative also involves Malaysia, thus reflecting its direct impact in facilitating the travel of Malaysian pilgrims. On the situation in West Asia: How would you describe the current geopolitical landscape in West Asia and what is Saudi Arabia's stance on the ongoing conflict? To what extent do these developments affect Saudi Arabia? Saudi Arabia has a strong vision based on supporting stability, preventing the escalation of crises, and prioritizing political and diplomatic solutions. This stems from the conviction that the security and prosperity of the region can only be achieved through dialogue, respect for national sovereignty, and addressing crises at their root causes, thereby protecting the interests of their people and preventing further escalation of tensions. Saudi Arabia's position is clear and firm. Saudi Arabia condemns Iran's attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, the Gulf States and Jordan, considering them an unacceptable violation of national sovereignty and a direct threat to the security and stability of the region. Saudi Arabia completely rejects any excuses that attempt to justify this attack. Saudi Arabia has officially stated that it will not allow its airspace or territory to be used to attack Iran. Therefore, this allegation is completely unacceptable. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia continues to exercise complete discretion and self-control. Saudi Arabia continues to work in coordination with other countries to support efforts to ease tensions, urge the implementation of a ceasefire, and restore regional stability. These unjustified attacks target countries not involved in the war, attacking civilian infrastructure, energy facilities and residential areas, which directly affects the interests of the people and the population. Saudi Arabia calls for an immediate halt to the attacks, an end to the escalation of tensions, and for international law and the principles of good neighborliness to be observed in order to preserve the security and stability of the region. Energy and global markets: Given the changing dynamics of global energy, how does Saudi Arabia balance its role as a major oil producer with the global shift towards renewable energy? Saudi Arabia addresses the issues of energy market stability and the protection of important waterways in accordance with international law. It stressed the importance of the security of maritime routes and freedom of navigation, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Bab el-Mandeb. Any threat to these waterways not only affects the global economy and international energy security, but also affects the movement of trade and essential goods, including food supplies, which directly impact the needs of the country and its people. From this perspective, Saudi Arabia's East-West pipeline stands out as an important strategic route for enhancing global supply stability, especially given the escalating military confrontation and its direct impact on maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. This pipeline gives Saudi Arabia significant flexibility in transporting supplies to the Red Sea coast via safe alternative routes, thus ensuring continuity and reliability of supply and reducing the impact of regional tensions. Crisis response and humanitarian efforts: How does the Government of Saudi Arabia contribute to humanitarian assistance and reconstruction efforts in areas affected by conflict? Saudi Arabia plays a leading role through its unwavering commitment to its responsibilities. Humanitarian assistance to people affected by war, natural disasters, and humanitarian crises is provided by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSRelief), which implements impactful projects and programs that have alleviated the suffering of millions of people in need around the world. The center has implemented over 4,000 humanitarian and emergency assistance projects in 113 countries at a cost of over US$8 billion across a variety of critical sectors. These projects have contributed to providing immediate assistance to those affected, in addition to supporting development programs that promote stability and improve the quality of life in beneficiary communities. Saudi Arabia ranks second globally and first among Arab countries in providing humanitarian aid and relief by 2025. In addition, Saudi Arabia continues its humanitarian support for the Palestinian people through KSRelief. The center's official data shows that 78 aircraft and eight ships have been dispatched carrying more than 7,706 tons of aid, in addition to 914 aid trucks, 20 ambulances, and aid agreements worth more than US$90 million, reflecting a combination of political stance with direct and planned humanitarian action. Saudi Arabia has consistently emphasized in its official stance and statements its clear rejection of the Israeli aggression and continued violations against the Palestinian people. The country is also actively engaging diplomatically with its regional and international partners to support a more effective stance on the development. Among the most recent examples is the joint stance of the Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia and several Arab and Islamic countries in rejecting the decision passed by the Knesset (Israeli Parliament) on the execution of Palestinian prisoners, considering it a dangerous escalation that undermines opportunities for stability. Saudi Arabia continues its active political role, in collaboration with France, in leading international efforts to implement a two-state solution. -- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR: The newly appointed Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Malaysia, who began working in the country in January, recently shared his initial views and priorities in an exclusive interview with the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama). In the interview, Osamah Dakhdel Al Ahmadi commented on the continued progress of Malaysia-Saudi Arabia relations which is strengthened […]

Naquib Targets Positive Result at Fuji, PCCA 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, May 6 2026 — Malaysian driver Naquib Azlan, representing Porsche Malaysia, is aiming for a positive finish in Rounds Five and Six of the 2026 Porsche Carrera Cup Asia (PCCA) at Fuji International Speedway, Japan this weekend. He related that his transition from simulation racing to driving a real Porsche machine on track has been […]

Bernama to host HAWANA Media Forum tomorrow, discuss industry-related issues

KUALA LUMPUR: The HAWANA 2026 Media Forum, organised by the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama), is scheduled to take place tomorrow as a platform for stakeholders in the media landscape to participate in dialogue and exchange views on issues shaping the industry. The forum, which will be held in the national capital, will bring together media leaders, journalists, academics, public relations practitioners, as well as lecturers and students from public and private universities. The HAWANA 2026 Media Forum Secretariat in a statement announced that the forum will examine the challenges in maintaining the survival of media organizations during a crisis, especially when income is increasingly limited, as well as discuss the increasing needs of journalists in adapting to an increasingly complex and rapidly evolving media landscape. In addition, the forum will emphasize the importance of forming a resilient and forward-looking Malaysian media ecosystem, especially in the context of the digital era and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). "Several Malaysian Media Council Board Members will participate in this forum as panelists, including leading special sessions, as part of efforts to strengthen professionalism and governance in the industry," the statement said. The forum, which will be officiated by Deputy Minister of Communications, Teo Nie Ching, will also feature leading journalists and industry experts who will share their views and perspectives in the day-long programme, aimed at encouraging deeper discussions and a more meaningful exchange of ideas. The HAWANA 2026 Media Forum was held in conjunction with the celebration of National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2026 on June 20. -- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR: The HAWANA 2026 Media Forum, organised by the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama), is scheduled to take place tomorrow as a platform for stakeholders in the media landscape to participate in dialogue and exchange views on issues shaping the industry. The forum, which will be held in the national capital, will bring together […]

Unity Government Leaders Agree to Maintain Cooperation in Negeri Sembilan

The Unity Government Leadership Consultative Council, co-chaired by Anwar Ibrahim and Ahmad Zahid Hamidi yesterday, has agreed to maintain cooperation between UMNO and Pakatan Harapan in Negeri Sembilan. In a meeting held on 5 May 2026, the council reached a consensus to preserve the Unity Government framework in the state, emphasizing the importance of political stability and the well-being of the people. The council also expressed respect for the positions taken by both parties’ political bureaus concerning ongoing issues in Negeri Sembilan. Additionally, the council decided that any state government decisions that could potentially spark sensitivities or lead to disputes must be promptly referred to the joint consultative body for further deliberation. The statement was jointly issued by Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki following the meeting. -- MINUTESMY -- CREDIT: FB PAKATAN HARAPAN

The Unity Government Leadership Consultative Council, co-chaired by Anwar Ibrahim and Ahmad Zahid Hamidi yesterday, has agreed to maintain cooperation between UMNO and Pakatan Harapan in Negeri Sembilan. In a meeting held on 5 May 2026, the council reached a consensus to preserve the Unity Government framework in the state, emphasizing the importance of political […]

Pahang Requests For Immediate Decision On Change of 2026 SUKMA Venues

KUANTAN, May 5 2026 — The Pahang state government has requested for immediate decisions regarding any change in the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA) competition venues in Selangor to avoid additional costs due to early reservations made. Pahang Communications and Multimedia, Youth, Sports and Non-governmental organisations Committee chairman Fadzli Mohamad Kamal said the request was made […]

Couple Held Over Alleged Abortion, Concealment Of Birth

MELAKA, May 6 2026 — Melaka police have detained a man and his 17-year-old girlfriend for allegedly concealing a birth and aborting a 22-week-old foetus. State police chief Datuk Dzulkhairi Mukhtar said the case was uncovered after a medical officer at Melaka Hospital reported a teenage girl who arrived around 6.50 pm on April 25, […]