Day: May 21, 2026

Bumiputera entrepreneurs must dare to seize opportunities, be ready to make changes

MELAKA -- Bumiputera entrepreneurs need to dare to step forward, seize opportunities and be prepared to make changes in the increasingly competitive and fast-moving business world. State Science, Technology, Innovation and Communications Exco Datuk Fairul Nizam Roslan said they need to change their mindset from doing business for survival to building businesses that can grow, create job opportunities and have an impact on society. "In today's era, entrepreneurs need to be quick to adapt, creative and bold in taking opportunities based on current situations and needs, as well as being sensitive to aspects of branding, innovation and digital technology in marketing their products," he said. He said this when officiating the 2026 Melaka State-level Economic Movement (GEMA) Programme organised by the People's Trust Council (MARA) in collaboration with the Malaysian Malay Chamber of Commerce (DPMM) here on Wednesday. Also present were MARA Deputy Director General Zahari Aziz, DPMM Deputy President Amirhamzah Karim, MARA Melaka Director Shah Zulmizan Safar and DPMM Melaka President Farosham Naizamohideen. Among the program's contents are Leadership Talks and Entrepreneurship Agendas; "The Founders Circle: From Ordinary Brands to Market Icons - Building, Strengthening and Scaling Brands in Today's Market Reality" as well as an Inspirational Relaxed Chat with Datuk Chef Wan. Fairul Nizam said the program, which brought together MARA leadership, business figures, entrepreneurs and the local community through various sharing sessions, was very timely in strengthening the Bumiputera economic and entrepreneurial agenda. "This program also serves as a strategic platform in expanding collaboration networks and sharing knowledge through forum sessions to empower and motivate the entrepreneurs who attend to further improve their businesses," he said. He hopes that all participants will take the opportunity to gather information and gain experience through the sessions that have been arranged, and then apply this knowledge towards further boosting their respective businesses. -- BERNAMA

MELAKA — Bumiputera entrepreneurs need to dare to step forward, seize opportunities and be prepared to make changes in the increasingly competitive and fast-moving business world. State Science, Technology, Innovation and Communications Exco Datuk Fairul Nizam Roslan said they need to change their mindset from doing business for survival to building businesses that can grow, […]

45 houses detected involved in water theft in Pasir Mas

KOTA BHARU: A total of 45 houses in the Prima Lubok Jong housing area, Pasir Mas were detected to have illegally connected their water supply. Air Kelantan Sdn Bhd (AKSB) in a statement announced that the activity was detected through preventive and monitoring operations carried out yesterday to ensure that the use of water supplies was legal and complied with the regulations set. "The inspection results found that 45 houses had illegal connections or water usage which required further action from the AKSB," the statement said. According to AKSB, monitoring and enforcement will continue from time to time to curb illegal connection activities and minimize the issue of Non-Returnable Water (NRW) to AKSB. -- BERNAMA

KOTA BHARU: A total of 45 houses in the Prima Lubok Jong housing area, Pasir Mas were detected to have illegally connected their water supply. Air Kelantan Sdn Bhd (AKSB) in a statement announced that the activity was detected through preventive and monitoring operations carried out yesterday to ensure that the use of water supplies […]

Italy Summons Israeli Ambassador Over Treatment Of Gaza-Bound Flotilla Activists, Demands Release Of Citizens

BRUSSELS/ISTANBUL, May 21 -- Italy summoned Israel's ambassador to protest the treatment of activists involved in a Gaza-bound aid flotilla and demanded the immediate release of nationals still being held, the Foreign Ministry said Wednesday, Anadolu Ajansi reported. The Secretary General of the Foreign Ministry, Ambassador Riccardo Guariglia, summoned Jonathan Peled and conveyed the Italian government's "strong protest" over the matter, according to a statement from the ministry. During the meeting, Guariglia requested the immediate release and swift return to Italy of all Italian citizens still detained. Reiterating Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani's position, Guariglia said the events were "unacceptable", particularly as the individuals involved were unarmed and had no violent intentions. "He also highlighted the gravity of the intervention in international waters and expressed strong outrage at the images released in recent hours," the statement said. The ministry added that Italy reserves the right to consider appropriate political initiatives, including at the European level. Earlier on Wednesday, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Tajani criticised the incident. "The images of Israeli (National Security) Minister (Itamar) Ben-Gvir are unacceptable. It is unacceptable that these protesters, including many Italian citizens, are subjected to this treatment that violates their human dignity," they said in a joint statement. The Italian government said it was taking immediate steps at the highest institutional levels to secure the release of Italian citizens involved in the incident. Rome also demanded an apology over the treatment of activists and what it described as disregard for its explicit requests. Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto also wrote on the social media platform X that Ben-Gvir's actions do not serve Israel’s interests. "We take pride in other things, Minister. We take pride in having always treated your fellow citizens with respect, and we are not in the habit of arresting people in international waters. Rather, we rescue them when they need help," Crosetto added. The remarks came after a video posted by Ben-Gvir on social media showed detained activists zip-tied and forced to kneel after being detained by Israeli forces in international waters. The Global Sumud humanitarian aid flotilla said Tuesday that all 50 vessels in its aid convoy had been seized by Israel. -- BERNAMA

BRUSSELS/ISTANBUL, May 21 — Italy summoned Israel’s ambassador to protest the treatment of activists involved in a Gaza-bound aid flotilla and demanded the immediate release of nationals still being held, the Foreign Ministry said Wednesday, Anadolu Ajansi reported. The Secretary General of the Foreign Ministry, Ambassador Riccardo Guariglia, summoned Jonathan Peled and conveyed the Italian […]

Top News Headlines In Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand & Vietnam: May 21, 2026

INDONESIA 1. INDONESIA'S PRABOWO NAMES SOES SOLE EXPORTERS FOR KEY COMMODITIES -- ANTARA Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced a new government regulation requiring state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to become sole exporters of several natural resource commodities, including palm oil, coal, and ferroalloys. 2. ASEAN DIGITAL PACT COULD LIFT INDONESIA'S ECONOMY TO US$600 BLN: AIRLANGGA -- ANTARA Indonesia’s digital economy could expand to US$600 billion through the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), Coordinating Economic Minister Airlangga Hartarto said on Wednesday. LAOS 1. VIETNAM-LAO EXPRESSWAY CONSTRUCTION STARTS -- VIENTIANE TIMES Vietnam broke ground on a 60-kilometre expressway costing US$910 million (RM3.6 billion) that connects the Lao border. The corridor will improve overland links to Vietnamese seaports that will expand trade and tourism. 2. PREPARING FOR LDC GRADUATION -- VIENTIANE TIMES Lao is preparing to exit the Least Developed Country (LDC) status by focusing on rural development to improve living standards. Poverty reduction, strengthening governance and combating corruption will be given top priorities. MYANMAR 1. IMPROVING RURAL WOMEN’S ECONOMIC STATUS -- THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR The Small-Scale Industries Department will implement the rural family income improvement project in 214 villages. Sewing and food production courses will be conducted to uplift the economic well-being of rural women. 2. SOLAR-POWERED STREETLIGHTS FOR VILLAGES -- THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR The government will provide solar streetlights to 41 villages in Shan state. The initiative aims to enhance the socioeconomic status of rural residents and narrow the urban-rural development gap. PHILIPPINES 1. BILL EXTENDING PRC ID VALIDITY TO 5 YEARS APPROVED ON FINAL READING -- PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY In a major win for millions of Filipino professionals, the House of Representatives on Wednesday night approved on third and final reading a measure extending the validity of Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) identification cards from three years to five years, easing renewal burdens and cutting red tape in government transactions. 2. HOUSE OKS KALINGA BILL, EYES FASTER RESPONSE TO FUEL CRISES, INFLATION -- PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY The House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on second reading the Kalinga Act, a proposed national emergency response and resiliency framework that would allow the Marcos administration to move faster against fuel-driven inflation, energy supply risks and shocks that threaten food, transport, livelihood, and essential services. SINGAPORE 1. SINGTEL LOGS 12 PCT RISE IN ANNUAL EARNINGS HELPED BY REGIONAL ASSOCIATES - CNA Singapore Telecommunications (Singtel) reported a 12 per cent rise in annual underlying profit on Thursday, driven by strong contributions from India's Bharti Airtel and other regional associates. 2. BABY FOOD FROM IRELAND RECALLED DUE TO POTENTIAL MOULD GROWTH AND SPOILAGE: SFA -- THE STRAITS TIMES A recall for a baby food product from Ireland is ongoing due to potential mould growth and spoilage, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) said. THAILAND 1. THAILAND REVEALS 93 COUNTRIES LOSING 60-DAY VISA-FREE ENTRY -- THE NATION Thailand’s Cabinet has approved ending 60-day visa-free entry for 93 countries, with most set to return to 30-day stays. 2. GOVT TO PURGE STATE SECRETS -- BANGKOK POST Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered all state agencies to fully disclose public information and eliminate unnecessary secrecy as part of a nationwide anti-corruption campaign launched in cooperation with the private sector. VIETNAM 1. SMART FISHING PORT AT GIA LAI -- VIETNAMPLUS Gia Lai province will build a smart fishing port at Tam Quan to modernise its seafood industry and improve export standards. The port will deploy digital tools, automation and data analytics to manage fleets and track marine catch. 2. ASIAN HACKATHON ATTRACTS OVER 400 TEAMS -- VIETNAMPLUS The Asian Hackathon for Green Future 2026 has attracted 439 teams, with about 1,440 contestants from 22 countries. The 36-hour in-person hackathon is scheduled from July 2 to 5 at VinUni University in Hanoi. -- BERNAMA

INDONESIA 1. INDONESIA’S PRABOWO NAMES SOES SOLE EXPORTERS FOR KEY COMMODITIES — ANTARA Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced a new government regulation requiring state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to become sole exporters of several natural resource commodities, including palm oil, coal, and ferroalloys. 2. ASEAN DIGITAL PACT COULD LIFT INDONESIA’S ECONOMY TO US$600 BLN: AIRLANGGA — ANTARA […]

Experience Tropical Luxury at PARKROYAL Langkawi Resort

Nestled along the stunning shoreline of Pantai Tengah, PARKROYAL Langkawi Resort has quickly become one of Langkawi’s most talked-about luxury lifestyle destinations. Combining modern elegance with island charm, the resort offers travellers a relaxing escape surrounded by turquoise waters, golden sunsets, and lush tropical greenery. Whether visiting for a romantic retreat, a family holiday, or a wellness getaway, the resort delivers a complete lifestyle experience that blends comfort, leisure, and authentic Malaysian hospitality.  Located on Langkawi’s famous beach stretch, the five-star property features more than 300 stylishly designed rooms, suites, and private villas. Each accommodation is thoughtfully curated with spacious interiors, contemporary furnishings, private balconies, and breathtaking views overlooking either the Andaman Sea or the island’s lush tropical landscape. Guests seeking greater exclusivity can enjoy private villas complete with plunge pools and direct beach access, offering a peaceful sanctuary away from the bustle of daily life.  One of the biggest highlights of the resort is its exceptional swimming pool experience. The beachfront family pool creates a lively and welcoming atmosphere for guests of all ages, while children can enjoy the dedicated splash park featuring slides and water play attractions. Meanwhile, adults looking for a quieter retreat can head to the adults-only infinity Sky Pool overlooking the sea. Sunset moments by the infinity pool have become one of the resort’s signature lifestyle experiences, attracting travellers looking for both relaxation and stunning photo opportunities.  Dining at the resort is equally impressive, offering guests a rich culinary journey inspired by local and international flavours. The all-day dining restaurant, CASSIA, is especially popular for its extensive buffet breakfast spread that includes Malaysian delicacies, Asian favourites, Western dishes, fresh pastries, tropical fruits, and live cooking stations. The open-kitchen concept enhances the dining experience, allowing guests to enjoy freshly prepared meals while soaking in the relaxed beachfront ambience. For a more refined culinary setting, Lancava serves as the resort’s signature restaurant and wine bar. Featuring Mediterranean-inspired cuisine blended with Asian influences, the restaurant provides an elegant atmosphere perfect for romantic dinners and intimate gatherings. From premium seafood selections to carefully paired wines, Lancava offers guests a sophisticated dining experience with scenic ocean views. Guests can also unwind at the Ocean View Lounge, where coffees, cocktails, mocktails, and light bites are served throughout the day. The resort’s swim-up bar beside the infinity pool further elevates the luxury lifestyle experience, allowing guests to sip refreshing beverages while enjoying uninterrupted sea views. Whether during sunset or beneath the evening sky, the atmosphere perfectly captures Langkawi’s tropical charm. Beyond leisure and dining, the resort places strong emphasis on wellness and relaxation. SUASANA Spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments inspired by traditional healing therapies, including massages, aromatherapy sessions, facials, and body scrubs. Designed with calming interiors and soothing ambience, the spa provides guests with a peaceful sanctuary to refresh both body and mind. Fitness enthusiasts can also maintain their routines at the fully equipped 24-hour gym featuring modern cardio and strength-training facilities. Families travelling to Langkawi will appreciate the resort’s child-friendly environment and thoughtfully designed facilities. The kids’ club, playground, and dedicated children’s pool ensure younger guests remain entertained throughout their stay. The spacious beachfront setting also allows families to enjoy relaxing walks, beach games, and memorable sunset moments together.  Its strategic location near Pantai Cenang makes the resort an ideal base for exploring Langkawi’s vibrant attractions. Guests can easily access shopping outlets, cafes, water sports activities, and popular destinations such as Underwater World Langkawi, Langkawi SkyCab, and Sky Bridge. This balance between island adventure and luxury relaxation adds to the resort’s growing popularity among both local and international travellers. More than just a luxury accommodation, PARKROYAL Langkawi Resort represents a complete tropical lifestyle destination where comfort, wellness, gastronomy, and natural beauty come together seamlessly. From breathtaking infinity pools and elegant dining experiences to rejuvenating spa treatments and beachfront serenity, the resort continues to redefine modern hospitality in Langkawi, offering guests an unforgettable island escape. -- MINUTESMY

Nestled along the stunning shoreline of Pantai Tengah, PARKROYAL Langkawi Resort has quickly become one of Langkawi’s most talked-about luxury lifestyle destinations. Combining modern elegance with island charm, the resort offers travellers a relaxing escape surrounded by turquoise waters, golden sunsets, and lush tropical greenery. Whether visiting for a romantic retreat, a family holiday, or […]

Datuk Seri Ramanan Hails KESUMA Staff as “True Heroes” Behind Labour Day Celebration Success

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 21 -- Datuk Seri Ramanan Ramakrishnan praised the dedication and commitment of the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) staff and agencies involved in the successful organisation of the recent Labour Day Celebration, describing them as the “true heroes” behind the event. Following the Post-Cabinet Meeting, Ramanan, together with Deputy Minister Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan and KESUMA’s top management, attended the Labour Day Appreciation Ceremony to honour the ministry’s workforce for their tireless efforts throughout the three-day celebration held from May 1 to May 3. He said the extraordinary commitment shown by KESUMA personnel and related agencies ensured every programme was carried out smoothly, systematically, and effectively for the benefit of the public. According to Ramanan, the celebration featured a wide range of initiatives and programmes, including departmental and agency exhibitions, career carnivals, TVET programmes, intellectual discourse sessions, health screenings, and various public services that received overwhelming response from visitors. As a token of appreciation for the dedication and sacrifices of KESUMA staff, Ramanan and the Deputy Minister also increased the lucky draw prizes through a personal contribution amounting to RM100,000 exclusively for KESUMA employees. He also extended appreciation to the Prime Minister's Office, Public Service Department, and strategic partners including Tenaga Nasional Berhad, Duopharma Biotech Berhad, Carsome, and CelcomDigi for their strong support and cooperation throughout the event. Ramanan added that the success of the Labour Day Celebration symbolised the strength of teamwork, sacrifice, and the unwavering commitment of the entire KESUMA family in serving the people and the nation. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB RAMANAN RAMAKRISHNAN

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 21 — Datuk Seri Ramanan praised the dedication and commitment of the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) staff and agencies involved in the successful organisation of the recent Labour Day Celebration, describing them as the “true heroes” behind the event. Following the Post-Cabinet Meeting, Ramanan, together with Deputy Minister Datuk Khairul Firdaus […]

Tanjung Point Residences Offers Resort-Style Comfort Along Penang’s Coastline

Combining modern convenience with the calming atmosphere of beachfront living, Tanjung Point Residences in Tanjung Tokong continues to attract visitors and residents seeking a relaxing coastal experience in Penang. Overlooking the scenic Andaman Sea, the serviced residence development is designed to provide guests with a comfortable and enjoyable stay through a wide range of lifestyle-oriented facilities catering to families, business travellers and long-stay guests. Among its standout attractions is the outdoor infinity swimming pool located on Level 7, where guests can unwind while enjoying panoramic sea views. The pool area, complemented by sun loungers facing the coastline, has become one of the property’s most popular relaxation spots. For fitness enthusiasts, the development also features a well-equipped fitness centre on Level 8. Surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the ocean, the gym offers guests an inspiring environment to maintain their workout routines while enjoying uninterrupted sea views. Families staying at the residence are also catered for through a dedicated kids playground located on Level 7, providing children with a safe and enjoyable recreational space. In addition, guests have access to a 24-hour self-service launderette equipped with coin-operated machines, adding convenience particularly for long-term visitors and families travelling with children. Tanjung Point Residences also offers meeting and event facilities, including a seafront meeting room designed for small corporate gatherings, private functions and social events. The venue provides a scenic backdrop overlooking the sea, enhancing the overall experience for guests and organisers alike. Security and convenience remain among the development’s priorities. A multi-tier security system has been implemented throughout the property, with controlled access to the building, residential floors and apartment units reserved exclusively for registered guests. Adjacent to the residence is a shopplex featuring several convenience-oriented businesses including a convenience store, hair salon and pet hotel, allowing residents and guests easy access to daily necessities and services within walking distance. The property also provides a covered multi-level car park with complimentary parking facilities for staying guests, further enhancing convenience for travellers arriving by vehicle. Guests at Tanjung Point Residences are additionally able to enjoy special dining rates at the nearby Ombak Restaurant, a seafront dining establishment located next to the property offering a relaxing atmosphere with ocean views. As Penang continues to strengthen its reputation as one of Malaysia’s top tourism and lifestyle destinations, Tanjung Point Residences stands out as a development that successfully combines resort-style relaxation, urban convenience and scenic coastal living under one address.

Combining modern convenience with the calming atmosphere of beachfront living, Tanjung Point Residences in Tanjung Tokong continues to attract visitors and residents seeking a relaxing coastal experience in Penang. Overlooking the scenic Andaman Sea, the serviced residence development is designed to provide guests with a comfortable and enjoyable stay through a wide range of lifestyle-oriented […]