Day: May 26, 2026

WCE Expects Over 150,000 Vehicles Daily During Aidiladha Holidays

IPOH, May 26 -- The West Coast Expressway (WCE) expects more than 150,000 vehicles daily during the Hari Raya Aidiladha festive season, which coincides with the school holidays and a long weekend. In a statement today, WCE said traffic volume is expected to increase as many people travel back to their hometowns and holiday destinations. “To ensure smoother traffic flow, all construction and maintenance works involving lane closures will be postponed, except for emergency works. “Tow trucks will also be stationed at strategic locations along the highway, while Emergency Response Teams (ERT) and patrol personnel will be reinforced to provide 24-hour assistance,” read the statement. WCE said the proactive measures are aimed at ensuring incidents can be handled quickly to minimise traffic disruptions Motorists are also encouraged to use the WCE mobile application, which provides route navigation, locations of public facilities such as electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, motorcycle shelters, emergency telephones and real-time traffic updates. In addition, the Touch ‘n Go PayDirect system at all WCE toll plazas allows toll charges to be deducted directly from users’ e-wallet balances without the need for manual card reloads. WCE also provides six Rest and Service Areas (R&R) equipped with parking facilities, surau and toilets, as well as food stalls at selected locations, including Sungai Nyior R&R northbound and southbound, and Bukit Kapar R&R northbound. Road users are advised to plan their journeys early, ensure their vehicles are in good condition, observe speed limits, wear seat belts and get sufficient rest to reduce the risk of microsleep. -- BERNAMA

IPOH, May 26 — The West Coast Expressway (WCE) expects more than 150,000 vehicles daily during the Hari Raya Aidiladha festive season, which coincides with the school holidays and a long weekend. In a statement today, WCE said traffic volume is expected to increase as many people travel back to their hometowns and holiday destinations. […]

PM Anwar Back In Permatang Pauh Ahead Of Aidiladha Celebration

GEORGE TOWN, May 26 -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim returned to his hometown in Penang today for a brief working visit ahead of the Aidiladha celebration. Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, will present sacrificial cows to communities in the Permatang Pauh parliamentary and Seberang Jaya state constituencies at the Seberang Perai Tengah District Mosque near here at 2 pm. The former Permatang Pauh MP will then return to his village to present sacrificial cows to the Permatang Pasir state constituency community at Masjid Al-Falah in Pengkalan Tambang. Anwar will conclude the visit by presenting sacrificial cows to the Penanti state constituency community at Padang Mengkuang Titi, Kubang Semang at 3.45 pm before leaving for the capital. Muslims in Malaysia will celebrate Aidiladha tomorrow. -- BERNAMA

GEORGE TOWN, May 26 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim returned to his hometown in Penang today for a brief working visit ahead of the Aidiladha celebration. Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, will present sacrificial cows to communities in the Permatang Pauh parliamentary and Seberang Jaya state constituencies at the Seberang Perai Tengah […]

RMMJ Turns Johoreans’ Dream Of Home Ownership Into Reality

PONTIAN, May 26 -- A factory general worker’s dream of seeing her own name printed on a house title deed after 30 years has finally become a reality after she was selected as one of the recipients of the Johor Affordable Housing Scheme (RMMJ) at Taman Rimba Indah here. K. Anandi, 56, who had nearly given up hope after more than 10 unsuccessful applications over the years, expressed gratitude when her latest application, submitted in July last year, was finally approved by the Johor government. She said owning the 868-square-foot terraced house equipped with three bedrooms means she no longer has to live in her brother K. Selvananth’s home, where she had been staying for decades. “Previously, I applied many times but was disappointed after being rejected due to insufficient documentation. However, for this application, I am deeply thankful to the state government and Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi. “The price of this RMMJ house is very affordable at RM80,000, and the monthly repayments are not burdensome. It is truly affordable for people from the B40 group like me to finally own a first home after waiting for so long,” she said. She said this when met by Bernama at the handover ceremony for the RMMJ Taman Rimba Indah project, developed by Marcus Property Sdn Bhd, which involved 86 housing units measuring 868 square feet each, with prices starting from RM80,000. For young couple Ezzanur Ameera Nasaruddin, 27, and her husband Mohd Nor Ezzafi Md Othman, 29, being selected as RMMJ recipients has enabled them to break free from the burden of high rental commitments. Ezzanur Ameera said the house prices offered were significantly lower than market rates after taking into account subsidies and assistance provided by the state government. “Previously, we rented a house for about RM700 a month, but after moving into our own home, we only need to pay around RM400 in monthly instalments. The extra RM300 in savings is substantial and can be used for other necessities,” she said. She also praised the application process, describing it as much easier and more user-friendly now that it can be completed online. She said applicants only needed to upload basic documents such as copies of identity cards, salary slips, Employees Provident Fund (EPF) statements, employer confirmation letters and marriage certificates. “It is very different compared with my first application experience in 2022. At that time, the required documentation was far more extensive, the documentation costs were quite burdensome, and we had to travel physically to Johor Bahru to submit the documents,” said the private sector employee. A similar sense of relief was shared by clerk Sim Jia Chee, 27, who admitted she was surprised when her first-ever RMMJ application submitted last year was approved. Sim, who is expected to move into her new home soon after receiving the keys from the developer, said the RMMJ monthly instalment of around RM400 was significantly lower than the RM600 monthly rent she had previously been paying. “Previously, I consulted a sales agent about buying a house on the open market, but I was told I was ineligible because the monthly commitment was too high, ranging between RM900 and RM1,800. “I was also informed of hidden additional costs amounting to almost RM10,000, including legal fees. In contrast, under the RMMJ scheme, part of the home purchase costs is borne or simplified by the state government,” she said, adding that she could now begin saving for a more stable future. The RMMJ programme is among the strategic initiatives undertaken by the Johor government in collaboration with developers to provide opportunities for the B40 and M40 groups, young couples and first-time homebuyers to own homes at affordable prices, with units priced between RM80,000 and RM300,000. Based on state housing performance data, a total of 49,603 RMMJ units had been planned between 2022 and the first quarter of 2026. Of that number, 21,412 units have been fully completed and handed over to homeowners. The Johor government remains optimistic about ensuring that 30,000 RMMJ units will be completed by the fourth quarter of 2026, before achieving its overall target of 100,000 units by 2030. -- BERNAMA

PONTIAN, May 26 — A factory general worker’s dream of seeing her own name printed on a house title deed after 30 years has finally become a reality after she was selected as one of the recipients of the Johor Affordable Housing Scheme (RMMJ) at Taman Rimba Indah here. K. Anandi, 56, who had nearly […]

Seven Laotians still trapped in cave, rescue operation continues

PHNOM PENH, May 26 -- Rescue teams are still trying to rescue seven villagers from a remote village in Phonxay district, Xaysomboun province, central Laos who have been trapped in a flooded cave for almost six days. Vientiane Times reported that the victims, believed to be illegally mining gold, were trapped in the cave on May 20 after the water level began to rise. "The rescue operation is very challenging as the water level in the cave continues to rise due to continuous rain." "Lao and Thai rescue teams are working non-stop to reach trapped villagers." "However, flooding, challenging terrain and bad weather slowed down operations and forced rescuers to act with caution," said Vice Chairman of the Xaysomboun Provincial Administrative Committee, Phetsamai Phoxayavong, on Monday, according to the Vientiane Times. He is also the Head of the Regional Disaster Management Committee. Experts said the cave is believed to be over 100 metres deep, while its steep entrance posed a major challenge for rescue workers. The monsoon that is currently hitting the country has brought heavy rains and hampered rescue efforts due to still high water levels, while difficult road conditions are also complicating operations. Phetsamai said that as of 8pm Monday, preparations were underway for another rescue attempt despite facing various challenges. -- BERNAMA

PHNOM PENH, May 26 — Rescue teams are still trying to rescue seven villagers from a remote village in Phonxay district, Xaysomboun province, central Laos who have been trapped in a flooded cave for almost six days. Vientiane Times reported that the victims, believed to be illegally mining gold, were trapped in the cave on […]

The ringgit opened higher against the US dollar as the US-Iran talks took place

KUALA LUMPUR, May 26 -- The ringgit opened higher against the US dollar and other major currencies on Tuesday, amid talks between the United States (US) and Iran that could potentially end the conflict and lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. At 8am, the local currency strengthened to 3.9500/9560 against the US dollar from 3.9510/9550 at the close on Monday. US President Donald Trump reportedly said the talks were 'going well' while Pakistan's Army Chief informed China that a deal was 'close'. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd Chief Economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said that although there was optimism that the two countries could reach an agreement, no concrete developments had materialised. “Meanwhile, the impact on the cost of living and the need for global central banks to maintain a tight monetary policy stance are putting pressure on bond markets through rising yields. "In short, the outlook is still unclear and traders are expected to remain cautious about the impact on the real economy," he told Bernama. He said the ringgit was expected to trade flat at RM3.94 to RM3.95 today and market participants were awaiting further information on the ongoing US-Iran negotiations. In the opening session, the ringgit traded higher against a basket of major currencies. It strengthened against the Japanese yen to 2.4847/4887 from 2.4860/4887 at Monday's close, rose against the euro to 4.5958/6028 from 4.5998/6044 yesterday and rose against the pound to 5.3301/3382 from 5.3311/3365 previously. The local currency was mostly higher against regional currencies, however flat against the Indonesian rupiah at 222.6/223.0. The ringgit rose against the Singapore dollar to 3.0917/0967 from 3.0932/0966 at yesterday's close, higher against the Philippine peso to 6.42/6.44 from 6.43/6.44 and up against the Thai baht to 12.1445/1704 from 12.1640/1816 previously. -- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, May 26 — The ringgit opened higher against the US dollar and other major currencies on Tuesday, amid talks between the United States (US) and Iran that could potentially end the conflict and lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. At 8am, the local currency strengthened to 3.9500/9560 against the US […]

Pahang Sultan Stresses Unity, Harmony In Aidiladha Message

KUANTAN, May 26 -- Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah today called on the people, particularly Malays and Muslims, to continue safeguarding unity, avoid divisions and not be easily influenced by matters that could disrupt social harmony. His Royal Highness said Aidiladha symbolises sacrifice, sincerity and the strength of ‘ukhuwah’ (brotherhood) among Muslims. “The gathering of millions of Muslims in the Holy Land, regardless of race, status and background, proves that Islam calls on its followers to remain united, respect one another and strengthen brotherhood,” His Royal Highness said in a message in conjunction with Aidiladha 2026. Al-Sultan Abdullah noted that Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, in his Aidiladha 2026 message, had also urged Muslims and Malays in the country to remain united and avoid divisions that could weaken the community and create unease among the people. His Royal Highness said the strength of a nation and country does not depend solely on economic progress and development, but also on the unity of its people, social stability and mutual respect among races and religions. The Sultan also expressed hope that the people of the state would continue to uphold good values, strengthen the spirit of consensus and prioritise the common good for the sake of peace and national well-being. In the message, His Royal Highness and Tengku Ampuan of Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah also extended Aidiladha greetings to Muslims, especially the people of Pahang. “On this occasion, Tengku Ampuan of Pahang and I also pray that all Malaysian haj pilgrims will have their religious duties eased, be blessed with good health, attain a mabrur haj and return home safely,” His Royal Highness said. -- BERNAMA

KUANTAN, May 26 — Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah today called on the people, particularly Malays and Muslims, to continue safeguarding unity, avoid divisions and not be easily influenced by matters that could disrupt social harmony. His Royal Highness said Aidiladha symbolises sacrifice, sincerity and the strength of ‘ukhuwah’ (brotherhood) among […]

Tourism Malaysia, Singapore Airlines Partner To Boost Tourism, Air Connectivity

KUALA LUMPUR, May 26 -- Tourism Malaysia and Singapore Airlines (SIA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in boosting tourism and enhancing air connectivity between Malaysia and Singapore. In a statement today, Tourism Malaysia said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to positioning Malaysia as a preferred travel destination while improving connectivity through SIA’s extensive global network across key markets in Europe, Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. The collaboration is also expected to support the recovery and growth of Malaysia’s aviation and tourism sectors by strengthening regional hub connectivity via Singapore. Tourism Malaysia director-general Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim said the partnership comes at a crucial time as Malaysia intensifies preparations for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) and beyond. “Through this MoU, we aim to enhance Malaysia’s visibility in high-yield markets, improve connectivity and roll out impactful joint campaigns to stimulate demand and drive quality tourist arrivals into the country,” he said. Meanwhile, SIA regional vice-president for Southeast Asia Louis Leonard Arul said the partnership reinforces the airline’s strong commitment to supporting Malaysia’s tourism growth and global connectivity. He said SIA would align its efforts in key overseas markets through targeted campaigns and promotional initiatives showcasing Malaysia’s rich heritage, warm hospitality and natural attractions under the MoU. The MoU, signed in May 2026, will be effective for one year and is expected to generate stronger market traction, increase tourist arrivals and sustain the momentum of VM2026 through 2027. -- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, May 26 — Tourism Malaysia and Singapore Airlines (SIA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in boosting tourism and enhancing air connectivity between Malaysia and Singapore. In a statement today, Tourism Malaysia said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to positioning Malaysia as a preferred travel destination while improving […]

Military Exercises To Follow Strict Safety, Coordination Measures – MKN

PUTRAJAYA, May 26 -- Military exercises by the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) will be carried out in close coordination with state governments and relevant agencies to ensure they are conducted in an orderly, safe and responsible manner, in line with national security interests and public well-being. The National Security Council (MKN) under the Prime Minister’s Department (JPM), in a statement today, said the MKN meeting on May 25 supported MAF’s commitment to ensuring all military activities are implemented professionally, systematically and responsibly. It said all exercises and operations must comply with established guidelines, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and directives issued by the relevant authorities, including requirements related to safety and environmental conservation. “The implementation of military exercises is subject to strict approval procedures and coordination with relevant ministries and agencies,” the statement said. For both gazetted and non-gazetted training areas, all applications must undergo approval and verification processes involving the relevant authorities, including the State Security Working Committee (JKKN) chaired by the Menteri Besar or Chief Minister, as well as technical agencies. “Applications must also be submitted within the stipulated timeframe before any exercise is conducted to ensure that safety aspects, procedural compliance and local sensitivities are properly addressed before landowners are informed,” MKN said. It added that SOPs related to military exercises would continue to be enhanced from time to time. Post-exercise evaluations will also be conducted to assess the effectiveness of the activities, identify any impact caused and determine responsibility for repair works involving any damage. The MKN meeting viewed defence preparedness as a key element in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, security and strategic interests. At the same time, it stressed the importance of balancing defence operational requirements with local sensitivities through continuous engagement and coordination with all stakeholders. On May 24, MAF Headquarters said it respected and would comply with the decree of the Tengku Mahkota of Pahang, Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah, regarding military activities in the state. ​The MAF Headquarters said it remained committed to ensuring all exercises and operations are conducted in a planned, professional and responsible manner. Earlier, media reports stated that Tengku Hassanal had voiced concerns over military exercises in island areas in Pahang that could potentially affect the ecosystem. He also directed that MAF obtain the consent of the Sultan of Pahang before conducting any military exercise. -- BERNAMA

PUTRAJAYA, May 26 — Military exercises by the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) will be carried out in close coordination with state governments and relevant agencies to ensure they are conducted in an orderly, safe and responsible manner, in line with national security interests and public well-being. The National Security Council (MKN) under the Prime Minister’s […]

Datuk Seri Ramanan Ramakrishnan: Malaysia, India Committed to Expanding Strategic Partnership

KUALA LUMPUR, May 26 — Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Datuk Seri Ramanan Ramakrishnan yesterday  received a farewell courtesy call from the High Commissioner of India to Malaysia, TYT B.N. Reddy, who is concluding his diplomatic service in the country. Ramanan expressed his highest appreciation for B.N. Reddy’s commitment and significant contributions in strengthening the longstanding friendship and strategic cooperation between Malaysia and India throughout his tenure. He said the meeting also provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on the growing landscape of future cooperation between Malaysia and India, particularly as both nations continue to strengthen their positions as comprehensive strategic partners. According to Ramanan, B.N. Reddy played an important role not only in enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors, but also in fostering a relationship built on mutual respect, trust and friendship between the two countries. He reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to further expanding its strong bilateral ties with India for the mutual benefit of both nations, while supporting regional economic development and promoting a more inclusive and sustainable future for the people of both countries.  -- MINUTESMY  -- SOURCE : FB RAMANAN RAMAKRISHNAN 

KUALA LUMPUR, May 26 — Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Datuk Seri Ramanan Ramakrishnan yesterday received a farewell courtesy call from the High Commissioner of India to Malaysia, TYT B.N. Reddy, who is concluding his diplomatic service in the country. Ramanan expressed his highest appreciation for B.N. Reddy’s commitment and significant contributions in […]

YB Fahmi Fadzil: National Security Council Affirms Commitment to Safe, Coordinated Military Exercises

PUTRAJAYA, May 26 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil today shared the National Security Council’s (MKN) assurance that all military training activities conducted by the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) will continue to adhere to strict operational procedures, safety guidelines and environmental considerations. In a media statement issued by the National Security Council under the Prime Minister’s Department, MKN said the council meeting held on May 25 reaffirmed support for ATM’s commitment to ensuring every military exercise and operation is carried out professionally, systematically and in compliance with all established procedures and regulations.            The statement noted that all military exercises are subject to a stringent approval process involving coordination with relevant ministries, agencies and state-level authorities, including the State Security Working Committee (JKKN) chaired by the respective Menteri Besar or Chief Minister. MKN said applications for military exercises must be submitted within the stipulated timeframe to ensure that safety aspects, procedural compliance and local sensitivities are properly addressed before activities are conducted. The council also stressed that standard operating procedures (SOPs) related to military exercises will continue to be improved from time to time. Post-exercise assessments will also be conducted to review effectiveness, identify impacts and determine responsibility for any repair works arising from damages caused during exercises. According to the statement, national defence preparedness remains an important element in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty, security and strategic interests. At the same time, MKN emphasised that local sensitivities must continue to be taken into account through ongoing engagement and coordination with all stakeholders. MKN added that military exercises are implemented through close cooperation between the Malaysian Armed Forces, state governments and relevant agencies to ensure defence activities are carried out in an organised, safe and prudent manner in line with national security interests and public well-being.  -- MINUTESMY  -- SOURCE : FB FAHMI FADZIL 

PUTRAJAYA, May 26 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil today shared the National Security Council’s (MKN) assurance that all military training activities conducted by the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) will continue to adhere to strict operational procedures, safety guidelines and environmental considerations. In a media statement issued by the National Security Council under the Prime Minister’s […]