Day: June 8, 2026

GIGABYTE Advances Gaming Monitor Technologies with AI-optimized Visuals and Automatic OLED Protection

TAIPEI, June 8, 2026 — GIGABYTE, the world’s leading computer brand, continues to advance its gaming monitor technologies through AI-optimized visuals and intelligent OLED protection. As gaming displays evolve beyond traditional panel specifications, the AORUS ELITE Series introduces new AI-powered visual optimization and automatic OLED protection technologies, while further expanding GIGABYTE’s Tactical Features to deliver […]

CelcomDigi redefines entertainment with all-new StreamMORE Bundles

About CelcomDigi CelcomDigi is Malaysia’s largest mobile network operator with more than 20.4 million users on its network. The company aims to serve the growing digital needs of its customers by leveraging its newly combined widest network footprint, distribution touchpoints, innovative range of digital products and services, and superior customer experience powered by over 3,800 top industry experts. The company has clearly defined ambitions to advance the nation, inspire Malaysian society, and be a leader in inclusion and ESG practices. For more information on CelcomDigi, visit www.celcomdigi.com.

PETALING JAYA, 8 June — CelcomDigi Berhad (“CelcomDigi”) unveils its new StreamMORE Bundles, redefining how customers enjoy and manage their favourite entertainment content. Moving beyond typical bundle offers, StreamMORE brings together leading streaming platforms into carefully curated packages tailored to customers’ diverse content preferences. This enables customers to conveniently enjoy entertainment from multiple premium services, […]

West Asian conflict, high fuel prices affect airline industry profits in 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, Jun 8 -- Total airline net profit in 2026 is expected to reach US$23 billion (US$1 = RM4.02), half the previous forecast of US$41 billion, due to disruptions in West Asia involving war and high fuel prices, said the International Air Transport Association (IATA). “At the geographic epicenter of the West Asian war, airlines in West Asia are expected to collectively suffer losses due to weak demand and operational disruptions. "All other regions are expected to record gains, but at a lower level than previously projected," it said in a statement on Sunday. Total industry revenue is expected to reach US$1.16 trillion in 2026 (up 9.4 percent from US$1.065 trillion in 2025), while passenger load factors are forecast to continue to hit a record high with airlines expected to fill 84.0 percent of all seats throughout the year. This is an increase from 83.5 percent in 2025. Among other things, the number of passengers is expected to reach 5.1 billion in 2026 (up 2.4 percent compared to 2025) and the number of cargo is expected to reach 71.7 million tonnes in 2026 (up 0.2 percent compared to 2025). Commenting further, IATA Director General Willie Walsh said airlines from Gulf countries faced operational uncertainty due to the almost complete closure of airspace when the war began. The airline has done an amazing job of maintaining connectivity, but a huge financial impact is inevitable. “Even in the best of circumstances, the aviation industry as a whole suffers from low margins and returns below the cost of capital. "The sharp rise in oil prices has tested the financial resilience of airlines as net margins have been reduced to two percent worldwide," he said. He said airlines were bearing the brunt of the sudden increase in fuel prices. "Even though airfares increase, airlines still absorb part of the increase through their net profits. “Net profit per passenger is expected to drop to US$4.50, half of last year's amount. “In this situation, it shows resilience, but it won’t allow you to buy hot dogs at most FIDA World Cup venues and it doesn’t leave much of a surplus should other costs or taxes start to increase,” Walsh said. As for fuel costs, IATA said they are expected to increase by almost 40 percent to US$350 billion in 2026 from US$252 billion in 2025. This is based on an expected average crude oil price of US$95 per barrel (Brent) for this year, up 37 percent from US$69 in 2025. According to the association, jet fuel prices are expected to average US$152 per barrel this year, an increase of almost 70 percent from US$90 in 2025. "The difference between the price of crude oil and the price of refined products (the premium for jet fuel over Brent crude oil) is expected to reach an average of US$57 per barrel, the highest level in history," said IATA, which represents more than 370 airlines accounting for about 85 percent of global air traffic. — BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, Jun 8 — Total airline net profit in 2026 is expected to reach US$23 billion (US$1 = RM4.02), half the previous forecast of US$41 billion, due to disruptions in West Asia involving war and high fuel prices, said the International Air Transport Association (IATA). “At the geographic epicenter of the West Asian war, […]

Steven Sim Commends Bank Rakyat’s Support for Johor Entrepreneurs During HPM 2026

JOHOR BAHRU, June 8 -- Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, YB Steven Sim Chee Keong, conducted a working visit to Bank Rakyat at Coronation Square in conjunction with the Hebatkan Perniagaan Malaysia (HPM) 2026 Carnival – Johor Edition, which was held from June 5 to 7. During the visit, Steven Sim expressed his appreciation to Bank Rakyat employees for their dedication and commitment in facilitating business financing assistance for entrepreneurs in Johor. He acknowledged the bank’s important role in supporting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and helping local entrepreneurs gain access to financing opportunities needed to expand their businesses. Steven Sim also expressed hope that Bank Rakyat would continue to strengthen its efforts in empowering entrepreneurs, in line with the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives’ (KUSKOP) mission to enhance and accelerate the growth of Malaysian businesses. The HPM 2026 Carnival serves as a platform to connect entrepreneurs with business development opportunities, financing institutions and government support initiatives aimed at strengthening the nation’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development

JOHOR BAHRU, June 8 — Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, YB Steven Sim Chee Keong, conducted a working visit to Bank Rakyat at Coronation Square in conjunction with the Hebatkan Perniagaan Malaysia (HPM) 2026 Carnival – Johor Edition, which was held from June 5 to 7. During the visit, Steven Sim expressed his appreciation […]

Johor Govt’s Decanting Move Eases Health Clinic Crowding, Brings Relief To Mothers

ISKANDAR PUTERI, June 8 -- For mothers who are heavily pregnant or bringing young children for health check-ups, comfort when seeking treatment at health clinics is not a luxury, but a necessity. As such, the relocation of the Maternal and Child Unit of the Gelang Patah Health Clinic (KKGP) to the Southern Industrial and Logistics Clusters (SILC) here, under the Johor state government’s decanting (reorganisation) initiative, has been well received by patients, who now enjoy a more comfortable and orderly environment. S. Geetha, 33, who is three months pregnant, said one of the main challenges she previously faced when seeking treatment at the old location in Taman Nusa Perintis was the difficulty in finding parking due to the high volume of patients. The housewife, who is expecting her second child, said the situation forced expectant mothers to park by the roadside before walking and crossing the road to reach the clinic. “Now it’s much easier because the parking area is larger and the location is more comfortable for patients to seek treatment,” she told Bernama. For housewife Fatanah Izzati Mohd Hamdan, 30, who gave birth to her first child last month, the most noticeable changes are the more spacious waiting area and a service layout that is more patient-friendly. She said congestion at the previous facility sometimes made movement uncomfortable, especially for pregnant women and those carrying babies. “Previously, it felt like we were bumping into each other because it was so crowded. If we needed to go to the lab, we had to walk outside, but now everything is in one building,” she said. Wong Yoke Lin, 64, also praised the state government’s initiative in ensuring better healthcare services for women and children. “This is my first time at this clinic. In my view, the initiative is good as it benefits the public as a whole,” said the mother of two. A Bernama survey found that operations at the health clinic are running smoothly, with a more conducive and comfortable interior space, and a better location in a non-traffic-congested area. Earlier, it was reported that State Health and Environment Committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said the KKGP in Taman Nusa Perintis often faced congestion issues, handling about 800 patients daily within a limited space. Ling and Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi had visited the health clinic to assess the situation and proposed relocating the clinic’s Maternal and Child Unit to SILC to holistically address congestion issues and enhance service quality. The new facility, which has been operating since Dec 8 last year, offers child healthcare services, antenatal and postnatal care, as well as women’s health services. The improved facilities, larger space, conducive environment and more systematic access to services not only help reduce patient congestion but also enhance the quality of healthcare for the Gelang Patah community. -- BERNAMA

ISKANDAR PUTERI, June 8 — For mothers who are heavily pregnant or bringing young children for health check-ups, comfort when seeking treatment at health clinics is not a luxury, but a necessity. As such, the relocation of the Maternal and Child Unit of the Gelang Patah Health Clinic (KKGP) to the Southern Industrial and Logistics […]

Deputy Education Minister Officiates Closing Ceremony of PBAKL 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, June 8 — Deputy Minister of Education, YB Wong Kah Woh, yesterday officiated the closing ceremony of the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (PBAKL) 2026 at the World Trade Centre (WTC) Kuala Lumpur. The 10-day event, which ran from May 29 to June 7, recorded an impressive attendance of 2,416,009 visitors, underscoring the continued growth and relevance of Malaysia’s book industry. A total of 232 exhibitor companies participated across 1,210 exhibition booths, comprising 209 local exhibitors and 23 international exhibitors. The strong participation highlighted the industry's dynamic development and increasing international recognition. In his closing address, Wong expressed appreciation for the overwhelming public response throughout the fair and said the success of PBAKL 2026 should serve as a benchmark for future editions. He also acknowledged the contributions of various stakeholders, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which participated as the Guest of Honour Country and enriched the event through cultural, literary, educational and publishing-related programmes. He noted that the involvement of countries from around the world not only showcased their unique knowledge and cultural heritage but also reinforced the role of books as a bridge connecting communities across languages, cultures and geographical boundaries. The closing ceremony also featured the presentation of ASEAN Record Recognition, the announcement of winners for the Telaah Online competition, and the presentation of the PBAKL 2026 Booth Awards. PBAKL remains one of the region’s largest literary events, promoting reading culture, knowledge sharing and international collaboration within the publishing industry. “This Year is Our Year” and “Guru Bitara is the Pulse of the Nation” were among the key themes highlighted during the event. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB MINISTRY OF EDUCATION MALAYSIA

KUALA LUMPUR, June 8 — Deputy Minister of Education, YB Wong Kah Woh, yesterday officiated the closing ceremony of the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (PBAKL) 2026 at the World Trade Centre (WTC) Kuala Lumpur. The 10-day event, which ran from May 29 to June 7, recorded an impressive attendance of 2,416,009 visitors, underscoring the […]

Woman Held For Allegedly Confining Adopted Daughter In Storeroom In Seremban

SEREMBAN, June 8 -- Police have arrested a 46-year-old woman suspected of confining a nine-year-old girl in a storeroom behind a house in Taman Tuanku Jaafar here yesterday. Seremban district police chief ACP Mohd Yatim Osman said a report was received at 7.22 pm on June 7 regarding a young girl who was allegedly locked in an unlocked storeroom. He said initial investigations found that the victim had been the family's adopted child since she was one year and eight months old. "During the recent school holidays, the victim was placed in an unlocked storeroom behind the house and was given food twice a day. "The victim was only allowed into the house to use the toilet before being instructed to return to the storeroom afterwards," he said in a statement here today. Mohd Yatim said investigations also revealed that the victim was frequently scolded and beaten by the suspect, her adoptive mother, over minor matters, including stealing food at night. He said the victim was rescued and taken to Hospital Tuanku Ja'afar Seremban for further treatment. The case is being investigated under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, and an application will be made to remand the suspect at the Seremban Magistrate's Court today to assist in investigations. Members of the public with information related to the case are urged to contact the investigating officer, Insp Zulfitri Abd Razak, at 06-6033222 or any nearby police station. -- BERNAMA

SEREMBAN, June 8 — Police have arrested a 46-year-old woman suspected of confining a nine-year-old girl in a storeroom behind a house in Taman Tuanku Jaafar here yesterday. Seremban district police chief ACP Mohd Yatim Osman said a report was received at 7.22 pm on June 7 regarding a young girl who was allegedly locked […]

Magnitude 7.9 Earthquake Strikes Mindanao, Tsunami Warning Issued for Coastal Sabah

KOTA KINABALU, June 8 -- A powerful magnitude 7.9 earthquake struck Mindanao in the southern Philippines early Monday morning, prompting tsunami warnings for several coastal districts in Sabah. According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), the earthquake occurred at 7:37 a.m. local time at a depth of 50 kilometres. The epicentre was located at latitude 5.7° North and longitude 125.1° East. The strong tremor was reportedly felt in several parts of Sabah, particularly in the east coast districts of Tawau and Semporna. MetMalaysia's analysis indicates that tsunami waves of up to 0.4 metres may affect the coastal areas of Tawau, Semporna, Kunak and Lahad Datu. The potential impact period is expected between 10:30 a.m. and 12:00 noon today. As a precautionary measure, tsunami warning sirens have been activated in all four affected districts, while authorities continue to monitor developments closely. Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup urged residents in the affected areas to remain calm and strictly follow instructions issued by local authorities. "I strongly urge all residents in the affected areas to give their full cooperation and immediately comply with all evacuation or safety directives issued by local authorities to prevent any untoward incidents," he said in a statement. Residents have been advised to stay away from beaches, coastal areas and low-lying shoreline locations during the warning period. Government agencies, emergency responders and MetMalaysia are maintaining real-time monitoring of the situation, including the possibility of aftershocks and additional tsunami-related risks. Authorities have also reminded the public not to spread unverified information or rumours that could create unnecessary panic. For the latest and verified updates, members of the public are encouraged to refer to official channels, including the MetMalaysia website, the myCuaca mobile application, official social media platforms and the department's hotline at 1300-22-1638. "Let us all pray together for the continued safety and protection of all residents in the affected areas," Arthur added. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as more information becomes available. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB MET MALAYSIA

KOTA KINABALU, June 8 — A powerful magnitude 7.9 earthquake struck Mindanao in the southern Philippines early Monday morning, prompting tsunami warnings for several coastal districts in Sabah. According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), the earthquake occurred at 7:37 a.m. local time at a depth of 50 kilometres. The epicentre was located at latitude […]