Day: May 15, 2026

Anwar Chairs Seremban Development Meeting to Accelerate RMK-13 Projects

SEREMBAN, 15 MAY -- Anwar Ibrahim today chaired the Seremban District Development Meeting in Seremban to review the implementation status of programmes and projects under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13), with a strong emphasis on initiatives that directly benefit the people. The Prime Minister said discussions during the meeting focused on critical areas affecting the rakyat, including education, flood mitigation, infrastructure development, healthcare services, and socio-economic strengthening. Anwar stressed that every project and programme planned under RMK-13 must deliver tangible benefits to communities on the ground and not merely remain as policy proposals. He said the MADANI Government remains committed to coordinating efforts across ministries and agencies to ensure more efficient implementation and faster delivery of development assistance and public projects. “The priority is to ensure that every planning translates into effective action for the welfare of the people and the progress of the country,” he said. The Prime Minister also called for stricter monitoring mechanisms to prevent delays, leakages, and weaknesses in project execution that could negatively impact citizens. According to Anwar, every initiative must be carried out responsibly, transparently, and with full accountability to ensure public trust is maintained. He added that the government will continue strengthening oversight and coordination to ensure national development plans are implemented smoothly and effectively, in line with the aspirations of the MADANI framework and the needs of the rakyat. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

SEREMBAN, 15 MAY — Anwar Ibrahim today chaired the Seremban District Development Meeting in Seremban to review the implementation status of programmes and projects under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13), with a strong emphasis on initiatives that directly benefit the people. The Prime Minister said discussions during the meeting focused on critical areas affecting the […]

Youth Must Lead Malaysia’s Future with Knowledge, Integrity and Courage – PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today called on Malaysia’s youth to become the driving force behind the nation’s future by embracing knowledge, technology, integrity and critical thinking in facing an increasingly complex global landscape. Speaking in conjunction with the National Youth Day Celebration, Anwar described the country’s youth as a symbol of spirit, idealism and strength in shaping a progressive and competitive Malaysia. He said young people must be equipped with knowledge, skills, values and confidence to navigate rapid changes in society, technology and the economy. “I believe today’s young generation have the courage to think critically, voice out opinions maturely and bring about reforms for the betterment of the country,” he said. The Prime Minister stressed that mastery of technology and innovation alone is insufficient without strong moral principles, integrity and social awareness to build a dignified and respected nation. Anwar also reaffirmed the MADANI Government’s commitment towards empowering youth through expanded opportunities in education, skills training, employment and entrepreneurship development. He said the government would continue strengthening support systems for gig workers and young entrepreneurs to ensure that the younger generation remains competitive in the evolving economic environment. “As a commitment to the youth empowerment agenda, I am announcing an additional allocation of RM5 million to Majlis Belia Malaysia (MBM) to empower the movement and development of young people across the country,” he announced. The additional allocation is expected to strengthen youth-focused programmes and initiatives aimed at leadership development, innovation, volunteerism and community engagement nationwide. Anwar expressed confidence that the spirit, determination and ideas of Malaysian youth would become a key force in elevating the country to greater heights. “I am sure the spirit, thought and determination of the younger generation will be an important force in lifting Malaysia to a more advanced, fair and respected level,” he added. The National Youth Day Celebration serves as an annual platform to recognise the role of youth in national development while encouraging greater participation in shaping Malaysia’s future direction. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today called on Malaysia’s youth to become the driving force behind the nation’s future by embracing knowledge, technology, integrity and critical thinking in facing an increasingly complex global landscape. Speaking in conjunction with the National Youth Day Celebration, Anwar described the country’s youth as a symbol […]

MACC To Strengthen Strategic Cooperation With AGC – Abd Halim

PUTRAJAYA, May 15 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) will continue strengthening its strategic cooperation with the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC), particularly in handling high-profile, large-scale and public interest cases. Newly-appointed MACC chief commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman said such cases would continue to be referred to the AGC as the authority responsible for determining legal action on investigations conducted by the anti-graft agency. “I will do my best to lead, reform and strengthen the MACC,” he said in a statement today following a courtesy visit to Attorney-General Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar yesterday. The visit marked Abd Halim’s first official engagement since assuming office on May 13. Meanwhile, Mohd Dusuki expressed appreciation for Abd Halim’s decision to make the AGC his first courtesy visit as the new MACC chief commissioner. “The AGC and the MACC are inseparable. The cooperation between us will continue,” he said. Also present were the head of the AGC’s Trial and Appeals Division, Datuk Seri Saiful Edris Zainuddin, and the head of the AGC’s Prosecution Division, Datuk Masri Mohd Daud. -- BERNAMA

PUTRAJAYA, May 15 (Bernama) — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) will continue strengthening its strategic cooperation with the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC), particularly in handling high-profile, large-scale and public interest cases. Newly-appointed MACC chief commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman said such cases would continue to be referred to the AGC as the authority responsible […]

Work-based Learning Funding Raised To RM9.9 Mln, Recognising MAF Personnel Experience

MELAKA, May 15 -- Allocation for the Work-Based Learning (WBL) programme for the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) has been increased from RM3 million to RM9.9 million this year, expanding opportunities for 1,520 personnel to obtain academic recognition based on their experience and skills gained throughout their service. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the strategic initiative is aimed at improving the employability of MAF personnel after service, while helping them secure more stable jobs and income. “So far, a total of 461 MAF personnel have benefited from the WBL programme, with 231 enrolled at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) and 230 at Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM), and all are expected to graduate in November and December this year. “For this year, the programme has been expanded to 12 higher education institutions, with nearly 50 study programmes offered across various fields, including business administration, culinary arts, defence technology and logistics management,” he said. He spoke to reporters after officiating the launch of the Defence Ministry’s WBL Programme at Terendak Camp here today. Also present were Royal Malaysian Navy Chief Admiral Tan Sri Dr Zulhelmy Ithnain and Armed Forces Headquarters Chief of Staff Lieutenant-General Datuk Seri Muhammad Huzaimi Sabri. Earlier, Mohamed Khaled witnessed the exchange of Memoranda of Agreement between MAF, UPNM, UiTM and City University Malaysia, symbolising stronger strategic cooperation in implementing the WBL initiative. He also presented certificates of completion to 36 participants of Cohort 1/2025 who began their studies in June 2025, as well as offer letters to 24 new intakes for Cohort 2/2026 who will begin their studies next month. He said the programme is important as most military personnel join the service with only the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) qualification, adding that without intervention, they would retire with the same qualification in an increasingly competitive job market. “Most military personnel enter the service with only SPM qualifications, while over their roughly 20 years of service they accumulate experience, skills and competencies, but these are often not recognised by industry without formal certification,” he said. He said that through collaboration with higher education institutions, personnel’s experience and skills will be assessed and recognised, allowing them to obtain diplomas or formal academic qualifications through a work-based learning approach. “With better academic qualifications, it will help MAF personnel, who on average retire at around 41 and still have growing families to support, to secure jobs and reduce the risk of financial hardship if they rely only on pensions and welfare assistance. “At the same time, this work-based learning approach does not interfere with or affect their core duties in service, an advantage that personnel should make full use of,” he added. -- BERNAMA

MELAKA, May 15 — Allocation for the Work-Based Learning (WBL) programme for the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) has been increased from RM3 million to RM9.9 million this year, expanding opportunities for 1,520 personnel to obtain academic recognition based on their experience and skills gained throughout their service. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said […]

Three Vehicles Catch Fire After Crash At Udini Underpass

GEORGE TOWN, May 15 -- Three vehicles caught fire following a five-vehicle crash at the Udini Underpass on Jalan Masjid Negeri here today, causing severe traffic congestion. The incident involved a trailer lorry believed to be carrying concrete poles, a passenger van and a Proton S70 car, all of which caught fire, and two other vehicles — a Perodua Alza and a Chery Tiggo. Penang Fire and Rescue Department assistant director of operations John Sagun Francis said there were no reports of casualties. He said the department received an emergency call at 7.04 am and dispatched a team from the Jalan Perak Fire and Rescue Station to the scene. “Upon arrival, we found that the accident involved five vehicles, three of which were on fire. Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control at 7.33 am, and no casualties were reported as all those involved managed to escape in time,” he said in a statement. Meanwhile, the Penang Island City Council said in a traffic update posted on Facebook that traffic wardens had been deployed to the scene to manage and ease traffic flow in the area. “The public is advised to use alternative routes and avoid the area until the situation is safe and under control,” it said. The incident caused severe congestion in several areas, including Green Lane, Jalan Masjid Negeri and Jalan Batu Lanchang, as the roads are major routes and the accident occurred during peak hours when people were commuting to work. -- BERNAMA

GEORGE TOWN, May 15 — Three vehicles caught fire following a five-vehicle crash at the Udini Underpass on Jalan Masjid Negeri here today, causing severe traffic congestion. The incident involved a trailer lorry believed to be carrying concrete poles, a passenger van and a Proton S70 car, all of which caught fire, and two other […]

China-Malaysia Cooperation Key To Digital Economy Growth – Teo

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 -- Malaysia has invited Chinese enterprises to deepen cooperation with local companies in advanced digital technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), 5G applications and clean energy solutions as the country continues to strengthen its digital economy ecosystem. Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said international collaboration remained a core driver of Malaysia’s digital economy growth and bilateral cooperation with China had continued to expand. “At the same time, Malaysia continues to welcome international collaboration as a core driver of our digital economy. We warmly invite Chinese enterprises to deepen cooperation with Malaysian counterparts in areas such as advanced digital technologies, artificial intelligence, 5G applications and clean energy solutions,” she said in her speech at the 2026 China Smart Industry Trade Exhibition here today. Also present were Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing and China Entrepreneurs' Association in Malaysia (PUCM) president Datuk Keith Li. Teo said enterprises from both countries should leverage their complementary strengths and work closely together to further strengthen bilateral cooperation. “We encourage enterprises from both countries to learn from one another, leverage complementary strengths, and work in close partnership to further strengthen bilateral cooperation and deliver tangible benefits to our people,” she said. She said China had remained Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 17 consecutive years, with cooperation in smart technology and the digital economy growing from strength to strength. “Both nations share complementary strengths, with China bringing advanced tech innovation, while Malaysia offers a strategic ASEAN hub, digital infrastructure and a vibrant market,” she said. Teo also welcomed the establishment of the Malaysia-China Digital Economy Alliance, jointly promoted by PUCM, National Tech Association of Malaysia (PIKOM) and Silk Road Group. She added that the alliance would serve as a bridge to foster policy alignment, industrial synergy and innovation exchange, while accelerating the deployment of smart technologies and unlocking greater potential for bilateral and regional digital growth. -- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 — Malaysia has invited Chinese enterprises to deepen cooperation with local companies in advanced digital technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), 5G applications and clean energy solutions as the country continues to strengthen its digital economy ecosystem. Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said international collaboration remained a core driver of Malaysia’s digital […]

AFPPD Global receives UNFPA Implementing Partner status

Minister of Works who is also AFPPD Malaysia President Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said that as host to the AFPPD Global Secretariat, Malaysia is now in a better position to serve as a regional centre for the engagement of parliamentarians on issues of demographic resilience, reproductive health, gender equality, youth empowerment and sustainable development. "This achievement is also very significant for Malaysia. "I extend my deepest congratulations to Ipoh Timor Member of Parliament Howard Lee, who is also the Secretary-General of AFPPD Global and Deputy President of AFPPD Malaysia, for his leadership in ensuring that this important achievement was successfully realised," said Nanta in a Facebook post today. The status confirms Malaysia's growing role as a trusted partner in international cooperation involving members of Parliament and United Nations-related agencies. AFPPD Malaysia hopes to continue to support AFPPD Global in translating this recognition into meaningful efforts for the benefit of the people of Asia and the Pacific. AFPPD comprises 30 national committees made up of parliamentarians in the Asia Pacific and Central Asia regions, and serves as a forum to recommend and coordinate policies with the goal of creating a better future for all people in the region, especially vulnerable groups including women, children and youth, as well as the elderly. AFPPD organizes meetings and seminars for members of Parliament more than 10 times a year based on an activity plan adopted at the general meeting, with funding from various stakeholders including UNFPA. -- BERNAMA

PUTRAJAYA: The Global Asian Parliamentarians’ Forum on Population and Development (AFPPD) has been granted Implementing Partner status by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) through an agreement signed on May 12. The status enables AFPPD Global to implement work plans funded by UNFPA under the UNFPA Global and Regional Programmes 2026–2029, thus strengthening its role […]

History, Malay Language remain compulsory subjects for IPTA – Zambry

PUTRAJAYA, 15 MAY -- The subjects of Malay Language and History in the Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) remain mandatory requirements for admission to public higher education institutions (IPTA), including for students who graduated from outside the national education system. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said it also applied to the decision of the Cabinet meeting yesterday, which agreed on several decisions regarding the entry routes for students from tahfiz schools or institutions, private schools and Chinese Private Secondary Schools (SMPC) to follow study programmes at IPTA. "SPM is still mandatory even if he (the student) is studying that stream. This is because our UPU (UPUOnline system) assessment is based on SPM results. "This means he sat for two examinations including passing History and Malay Language subjects which are recognised by the Malaysian Examinations Board," he told reporters after attending the 2025 Excellent Service Awards Ceremony of the Polytechnic and Community College Education Department here today. Earlier, Zambry, in his speech, stressed that the requirements for admission to IPTA must still be based on the SPM system even though the government has opened up certain pathways for students from other education systems. "The basics must be the same. For example, from any stream, entry into IPTA must be based on our SPM system," he said. Zambry said the government's decision was, however, manipulated by some quarters as if the government was sacrificing the country's education system. Yesterday, the government agreed to several regulations regarding the entry routes for students from tahfiz schools or institutions, private schools and SMPCs to IPTA. Candidates from this stream who also have a full SPM can apply for any study programme offered through the UPUOnline system. In another development, Zambry said the government is working to bring polytechnic institutions and community colleges to a new level in line with current changes and the country's development needs. "We can no longer see polytechnics as just support institutions or second feeder institutions . The world is changing and we know we will be left behind if we don't change," he said. -- BERNAMA

PUTRAJAYA, 15 MAY — The subjects of Malay Language and History in the Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) remain mandatory requirements for admission to public higher education institutions (IPTA), including for students who graduated from outside the national education system. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said it also applied to the […]

PM Anwar Urges Entrepreneur Agencies To Reach Out To People

SEREMBAN, May 15 -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged entrepreneur development agencies to intensify efforts to go to the ground to identify the needs of the people and small traders, particularly youths, instead of merely waiting in offices. He said the ground approach was crucial to ensure that all government assistance, financing and programmes genuinely reached the target groups and were able to address problems faced by the people at the grassroots level. “My message is clear to all government agencies and financial institutions — find ways to reach out to the people. Do not wait for them to come to offices to seek assistance,” he said when speaking at the 2026 National Youth Day (HBN) celebration here today. Also present were Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun and Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari. The Prime Minister said the relevant ministries and agencies needed to be more proactive in engaging small entrepreneurs and young traders on the ground. “If there are small stalls in Kuala Lumpur, Seremban or anywhere else, go and meet them, ask about their problems, whether they have capital, whether facilities are sufficient or not. The government must be present to help the people,” he said. -- BERNAMA

SEREMBAN, May 15 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged entrepreneur development agencies to intensify efforts to go to the ground to identify the needs of the people and small traders, particularly youths, instead of merely waiting in offices. He said the ground approach was crucial to ensure that all government assistance, financing […]