PM Anwar Calls For Stronger Economic Diplomacy Among Malaysian Envoys

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 20 -- Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today received a courtesy visit from 13 Malaysian Chief Diplomatic Representatives who will soon serve in various strategic regions across the globe. During the meeting, Anwar stressed the importance of strengthening the nation’s economic diplomacy capabilities, particularly in attracting high-quality investments, expanding trade opportunities, and exploring strategic international cooperation that can sustainably drive Malaysia’s economic growth. He said diplomats today must go beyond mastering official protocols and bilateral relations, emphasizing that effective diplomacy also requires a deep understanding of history, culture, political systems, and the social nuances of host countries to ensure more meaningful engagement. The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of continuously nurturing and empowering the younger generation of diplomats with broad knowledge, critical thinking, and the ability to navigate increasingly complex geopolitical and global economic challenges. Anwar reaffirmed that Malaysia remains committed to the principles of simplicity, stability, good governance, and a diplomatic approach rooted in wisdom and universal humanitarian values in carrying the nation’s voice onto the global stage. -- MINUTESNMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 20 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today received a courtesy visit from 13 Malaysian Chief Diplomatic Representatives who will soon serve in various strategic regions across the globe. During the meeting, Anwar stressed the importance of strengthening the nation’s economic diplomacy capabilities, particularly in attracting high-quality investments, expanding trade opportunities, and exploring […]

HSA 2026 To Serve As Platform To Boost Ecosystem, Public-Private Healthcare Collaboration

KUALA LUMPUR, May 20 -- The hosting of the Health Summit Asia (HSA) 2026 is expected to serve as a catalyst in strengthening the regional healthcare ecosystem through the gathering of industry players, medical technology experts and policymakers from within and outside the country to explore future healthcare solutions. Deputy Health Minister Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib said the platform would also create opportunities for stronger collaboration between the government and private sector in enhancing the national healthcare system, particularly through the sharing of technology, innovation and the latest expertise. She said through exhibitions and discussion sessions involving local and international industry players, various new technologies and innovations in the healthcare sector could be highlighted not only in Malaysia but also across Asia. “If we think about it, it is not necessarily the Ministry of Health (MOH) or the Malaysian government that knows every type of technology or breakthrough available from other countries or local industries. “So through exhibitions and discussions like this, we can further strengthen understanding and facilitate solutions to more complex health problems,” she told reporters after launching HSA 2026 here today. Also present were Green Wellness Malaysia founder and managing director Datin Dorph Peng and Qube Integrated Malaysia executive chairman Richard Teo. The three-day conference, jointly organised by Qube Integrated Malaysia and Green Wellness Malaysia, is expected to attract more than 10,000 delegates, over 100 exhibitors and participation from more than 40 global and regional speakers, while targeting the generation of up to RM1.5 billion in commercial opportunities within the ASEAN healthcare and wellness economy. Meanwhile, commenting on the issue of drug-laced vapes or “zombie vapes”, Hanifah Hajar said MOH continuously monitors the current situation while conducting awareness programmes in schools to educate students on the dangers of vaping to health. “If there are vapes containing drugs and not produced by registered companies, we need to work together with the police, customs and enforcement authorities to ensure such matters cannot be compromised,” she said. On the Ebola situation, she said the Ebola vaccine has yet to be registered in Malaysia, but the ministry is making early preparations, including identifying procurement and logistics processes should the vaccine be required in the future. “We want to ensure that if needed, we are fully prepared to bring the vaccine into Malaysia,” she said. Earlier, MOH in a statement today said no Ebola cases have been reported in Malaysia so far, but preparedness measures are being further strengthened in view of the risk of imported cases through international travel following outbreaks in Congo and Uganda. -- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, May 20 — The hosting of the Health Summit Asia (HSA) 2026 is expected to serve as a catalyst in strengthening the regional healthcare ecosystem through the gathering of industry players, medical technology experts and policymakers from within and outside the country to explore future healthcare solutions. Deputy Health Minister Datuk Hanifah Hajar […]

RMAF’s F/A-18D Hornet Aircraft Lands Safely At KKIA After Experiencing Engine Issue

LABUAN, May 20-- The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) has confirmed that an F/A-18D Hornet aircraft, deployed on a detachment at the Labuan Air Base for training purposes, experienced an engine issue during its return flight after undergoing a night Air-to-Surface Firing Exercise in Kota Belud, Sabah, yesterday. The RMAF Public Relations Division of the Air Force Headquarters, Ministry of Defence, stated in a release today that the aircraft's pilot executed the established emergency procedures as soon as the incident occurred. According to the statement, the pilot then decided to land at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) as a safety precaution. "The aircraft landed safely at 7:47 pm," the statement read. Following the incident, the RMAF deployed a technical team to KKIA to conduct inspections and provide technical assistance for the aircraft. The aircraft is expected to fly back to its base once all inspection and technical verification processes are completed. The RMAF also assured that flight operation safety remains a top priority in every mission and training execution. --BERNAMA

LABUAN, May 20– The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) has confirmed that an F/A-18D Hornet aircraft, deployed on a detachment at the Labuan Air Base for training purposes, experienced an engine issue during its return flight after undergoing a night Air-to-Surface Firing Exercise in Kota Belud, Sabah, yesterday. The RMAF Public Relations Division of the […]

Seven-month-old Baby Boy Dies In Babysitter’s Care

SEREMBAN, May 20 -- A seven-month-old baby boy died after reportedly losing consciousness while under the care of a babysitter at a house in Bandar Sri Sendayan near here last night. Seremban district police chief ACP Azahar Abdul Rahim said police received information about the incident from the victim’s mother, a nursery teacher in her 30s, who said the babysitter found the child unconscious, before taking him to a nearby clinic at about 10 pm. “The baby was later taken to Tuanku Ja’afar Hospital, where doctors on duty carried out cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) before confirming that the child had died. “Investigations found that the victim had been under the care of the babysitter, a woman in her 30s, since December last year, and that at the time of the incident the child was put to sleep in a cradle and given a silicone pacifier,” he said in a statement here today. He said the victim’s body was sent to Rembau Hospital for a post-mortem, while the woman was arrested to assist investigations under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001. Azahar advised the public against speculating on the incident as it could affect the investigation, adding that action would be taken against those involved and that a full investigation is being carried out under existing laws. -- BERNAMA

SEREMBAN, May 20 — A seven-month-old baby boy died after reportedly losing consciousness while under the care of a babysitter at a house in Bandar Sri Sendayan near here last night. Seremban district police chief ACP Azahar Abdul Rahim said police received information about the incident from the victim’s mother, a nursery teacher in her […]

King Pilots Speedboat To Inspect Waters Around Mersing

MERSING, May 20 -- His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, today personally piloted a speedboat to inspect the waters around Mersing, reflecting His Majesty’s continued concern for marine conservation and environmental sustainability. According to a post on Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar’s official Facebook page, His Majesty, who places strong emphasis on beach cleanliness and the preservation of marine ecosystems, also dived underwater during the visit to observe conditions beneath the surface. Earlier in the morning, Sultan Ibrahim stopped for breakfast at the Midway Rest and Recreation (R&R) area in Dusun Panti, Kota Tinggi, where His Majesty enjoyed ‘lontong’. The King’s presence pleasantly surprised members of the public who were having breakfast at the R&R stop, with many taking the opportunity to greet and take photographs with His Majesty. -- BERNAMA

MERSING, May 20 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, today personally piloted a speedboat to inspect the waters around Mersing, reflecting His Majesty’s continued concern for marine conservation and environmental sustainability. According to a post on Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar’s official Facebook page, His Majesty, who places strong emphasis on beach cleanliness and […]

Four Qatari match officials referee the 2025/2026 Malaysia Cup final

KUALA LUMPUR,MAY 20 -- Four high-profile match officials from Qatar will referee the 2025/2026 Malaysia Cup final involving defending champions Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) and Kuching City FC at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium, here, this Saturday. The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) in a statement today announced that they consist of Mohammed Ahmed Al Shammari as referee, Yousuf Aref Al Shamari and Khaled Aiad Khalaf as assistant referees 1 and 2, and Meshari Ali Alshamari as Video Assistant Referee (VAR) referee. "These four officials are not foreign names on the international football stage. The referee, along with the two assistant referees and the VAR referee, have officiated several major tournaments including the FIFA U-17 World Cup and the Qatar Emir Cup Final, proving their experience and credibility in managing high-intensity matches." "The appointment of the referee from abroad was made after FAM received an official application from the Malaysian Football League (MFL) to select the best referee to officiate the prestigious 99th edition of the match," the statement said. As the Malaysia Cup final is always the highlight of national football, FAM is committed to ensuring that every aspect of the organisation, including refereeing, reaches the best standards in line with the reputation of the oldest and most prestigious tournament in Malaysia. FAM previously appointed an outside referee for the 2019 FA Cup final involving Perak and Kedah at the same venue. They consist of three match officials from Japan, namely Takuto Okabe as the referee, assisted by Akane Yagi and Osamu Nomura as assistant referees 1 and 2. -- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 20 — Four high-profile match officials from Qatar will referee the 2025/2026 Malaysia Cup final involving defending champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) and Kuching City FC at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium, here, this Saturday. The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) in a statement today announced that they consist of Mohammed Ahmed […]

Sunsets, Sea Views and Luxury Escapes Await at Century Langkasuka Resort Langkawi

Nestled along the scenic coastline of Langkawi, Century Langkasuka Resort continues to attract travellers seeking a relaxing island getaway surrounded by sea views, tropical landscapes, and resort-style experiences. Located near Langkawi International Airport and just a short drive from Pantai Cenang, the beachfront resort combines leisure, adventure, and convenience, making it a popular choice for families, couples, and holidaymakers visiting the island. Spread across 13 acres of greenery, the resort is known for its beachfront atmosphere and one-mile stretch of sandy shoreline overlooking the Andaman Sea. One of its standout attractions is the large Olympic-sized infinity pool facing the ocean, offering guests panoramic sunset views while relaxing by the water. The resort features more than 200 spacious guestrooms and suites, including ocean-view accommodations designed for comfort and relaxation. Guests can also enjoy facilities such as a fitness centre, children’s pool, beach activities, meeting spaces, and recreational experiences including kayaking, ATV rides, beach volleyball, and outdoor games. Seaside Dining at Matsirat Restaurant A major highlight at the resort is Matsirat Restaurant, the resort’s signature dining venue offering both local Malaysian flavours and international cuisine with scenic sea views. Located beside the beachfront area, the restaurant provides indoor and terrace seating, allowing diners to enjoy meals while overlooking Langkawi’s coastline. Fresh seafood, regional dishes, grilled selections, and international favourites are among the offerings served throughout the day. Breakfast buffets at the restaurant include a variety of local and Western selections, catering to both domestic and international guests. The relaxing oceanfront setting has become one of the resort’s key attractions, especially during sunset dining sessions.   Lobby Sports Bar and Sunset Experience Apart from its restaurant, the resort also offers a Lobby Sports Bar and casual lounge spaces where guests can unwind with beverages, cocktails, and light snacks after a day exploring Langkawi. The bar area provides a laid-back atmosphere ideal for social gatherings, evening drinks, and enjoying the island’s tropical ambiance. Guests frequently gather around the beachfront and terrace areas during sunset hours, creating a vibrant yet relaxing resort environment. The resort’s beachside experience is further enhanced by its spacious outdoor areas where visitors can enjoy ocean breezes, beach walks, and scenic sunset photography — one of Langkawi’s most sought-after holiday experiences. Strategic Location Near Langkawi Attractions Century Langkasuka Resort also benefits from its strategic location close to several of Langkawi’s major attractions, including Pantai Cenang, Underwater World Langkawi, Langkawi Cable Car, and Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC). Its proximity to Langkawi International Airport adds further convenience for domestic and international travellers looking for a seamless island vacation experience. The resort also caters to corporate events, weddings, and private functions through its banquet halls and beachfront event spaces. According to hotel sources, the property features one of Langkawi’s notable glass ballroom concepts overlooking the sea. A Relaxing Island Retreat in Langkawi As Langkawi continues to strengthen its reputation as one of Malaysia’s leading tourism destinations, Century Langkasuka Resort remains among the island’s recognised beachfront resorts offering a balance of relaxation, family-friendly activities, dining experiences, and scenic coastal beauty. From enjoying sunsets by the infinity pool to seaside dining at Matsirat Restaurant, the resort delivers an island retreat experience suited for travellers seeking both tranquility and adventure in Langkawi. -- MINUTESMY

Nestled along the scenic coastline of Langkawi, Century Langkasuka Resort continues to attract travellers seeking a relaxing island getaway surrounded by sea views, tropical landscapes, and resort-style experiences. Located near Langkawi International Airport and just a short drive from Pantai Cenang, the beachfront resort combines leisure, adventure, and convenience, making it a popular choice for […]