Day: June 9, 2026

Malaysia Showcases Social Protection Reforms During ISSA Meeting in Geneva – Datuk Seri Ramanan

GENEVA, June 9 — Malaysia highlighted its latest social protection reforms during a courtesy visit to the International Social Security Association (ISSA) in Geneva, Switzerland, led by Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, Datuk Seri R. Ramanan. Ramanan headed the Malaysian delegation in a meeting with ISSA President, Dato' Sri Dr. Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed, alongside ISSA's leadership and representatives, where discussions focused on strengthening social welfare, worker protection and social security systems. During the meeting, Ramanan shared the MADANI Government's key achievements and legislative reforms aimed at enhancing the welfare and well-being of Malaysian workers. Among the initiatives highlighted was the implementation of the Gig Workers Act 2025, which came into force on March 31, 2026. The legislation is expected to provide stronger rights and round-the-clock protection for more than 1.6 million gig workers in line with the evolving nature of the workforce. Ramanan also outlined the introduction of the 24-Hour Protection Scheme (Skim Lindung 24 Jam), which took effect on June 1, 2026. The scheme extends comprehensive social security coverage to more than nine million workers nationwide, regardless of when or where an accident occurs, including incidents outside working hours. He reaffirmed Malaysia's commitment under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to continuously strengthen the country's social protection framework, making it more inclusive, sustainable and responsive to the needs of today's workforce. Ramanan said the government remains committed to ensuring that every reform balances worker welfare with employer competitiveness, while supporting long-term economic growth. The visit also provided an opportunity for Malaysia and ISSA to exchange views and best practices in social security administration, further strengthening strategic cooperation and advancing social protection initiatives at the international level. Also present at the meeting were ISSA Secretary General Marcelo Abi-Ramia Caetano, ISSA Bureau Chairperson Fabian Pilzecker, ISSA Director for Governance, Relations and Regions Jens Schremmer, ISSA Regional Coordinator for Asia and the Pacific Indrajid Nurmukti, Special Officer to the ISSA President Mas Ari Amry A. Rahman, and Special Officer to the ISSA Bureau Chairperson Katharina Kirn.

GENEVA, June 9 — Malaysia highlighted its latest social protection reforms during a courtesy visit to the International Social Security Association (ISSA) in Geneva, Switzerland, led by Human Resources Minister, Datuk Seri R. Ramanan. Ramanan headed the Malaysian delegation in a meeting with ISSA President, Dato’ Sri Dr. Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed, alongside ISSA’s leadership […]

US will declare “absolute victory” over Iran in two weeks – Trump

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump said on Monday that the US would declare "total victory" over Iran within the next two weeks, just hours after Iran and Israel agreed to halt the worst escalation of violence since a ceasefire took effect in April, Anadolu Agency reported. "We are a very determined team, and I think we are winning the battle, but you will really win it in the next two weeks when we declare absolute victory," Trump said during a campaign teleconference with Senator Lindsey Graham, his close Republican ally. "It will be an absolute victory. It will happen soon, and oil prices will drop sharply," he said. Earlier on Monday, Iran announced an end to its attacks on Israel, but warned of retaliation if Israeli military operations in Lebanon continued. The Iranian military said Israel and its allies "should have learned a lesson" from Tehran's response. Regional tensions rose on Sunday when Israel bombed the Lebanese capital, Beirut, despite a ceasefire still in effect. The action prompted Iran to launch retaliatory missiles into northern Israel, triggering several waves of Israeli air strikes on Iranian targets. Trump intervened early Monday by posting on his Truth Social platform, urging Israel and Iran to stop the fighting "immediately". -- BERNAMA-ANADOLU

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump said on Monday that the US would declare “total victory” over Iran within the next two weeks, just hours after Iran and Israel agreed to halt the worst escalation of violence since a ceasefire took effect in April, Anadolu Agency reported. “We are a very determined team, and I think […]

Ringgit opens higher against US dollar, most major currencies

KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit opened higher against the United States (US) dollar and most other major currencies today, in line with a slight decline in the US Dollar Index (DXY) following the easing of tensions in West Asia. At 8am, the local currency rose to 4.0665/0780 against the US dollar from 4.0715/0760 at the close on Monday. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd Chief Economist, Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said the DXY fell slightly to 99.98 points as Iran and Israel were seen showing signs of easing their attacks on each other, although the development could still change. “Market sentiment is expected to remain cautious ahead of the US Consumer Price Index (CPI) release tomorrow. "Taking into account the ongoing war and its impact on fuel prices, in addition to the strong non-farm payrolls (NFP) data last week, the Federal Reserve (Fed) is expected to maintain a tight monetary policy stance," he told Bernama. The ringgit traded mostly higher against a basket of major currencies. It strengthened against the British pound to 5.4219/4372 from 5.4249/4309 and rose against the Japanese yen to 2.5385/5459 from 2.5445/5475, but weakened against the euro to 4.6879/7011 from 4.6867/6919 at yesterday's close. The local currency is also trading higher than most regional currencies. The ringgit rose against the Singapore dollar to 3.1548/1639 from 3.1577/1614, strengthened against the Thai baht to 12.3639/4049 from 12.3942/4128, rose against the Philippine peso to 6.59/6.61 from 6.60/6.61, and rose against the Indonesian rupiah to 223.5/224.3 from 223.8/224.2 on Monday. -- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit opened higher against the United States (US) dollar and most other major currencies today, in line with a slight decline in the US Dollar Index (DXY) following the easing of tensions in West Asia. At 8am, the local currency rose to 4.0665/0780 against the US dollar from 4.0715/0760 at the close […]

Over 757,000 Baby Turtles Released In Terengganu As Conservation Efforts Show Results

KUALA NERUS, June 9 --A total of 757,869 baby turtles were successfully hatched and released into the sea in Terengganu last year, underscoring the effectiveness of ongoing marine conservation efforts to protect endangered turtle species and preserve the country's marine biodiversity. Fisheries Director-General Datuk Adnan Hussain said the achievement was recorded under the Terengganu Turtle Management and Conservation Programme, which also documented 13,180 Green Sea Turtle nests and the successful collection and incubation of 1.07 million turtle eggs in 2025. He said the programme recorded an encouraging hatching success rate of 71.07 per cent, reflecting the effectiveness of conservation and incubation initiatives undertaken by the authorities. “Every hatchling that successfully returns to the sea represents renewed hope for the survival of this species and serves as an important indicator of the health of the marine ecosystem that we collectively inherit and strive to preserve,” he said. Adnan was speaking to reporters after the release of 570 baby turtles at the Pulau Redang Marine Park in conjunction with World Oceans Day 2026, themed “Protect the Sea, Sustain Fisheries”. He said Terengganu continues to be the country's primary nesting ground for green turtles, with key nesting sites located at Chagar Hutang Beach and Pasir Panjang Beach on Pulau Redang, Rantau Abang Beach in Dungun, as well as Geliga Beach and Ma’Daerah Beach in Kemaman. In addition to green turtles, the programme also recorded 308 leatherback turtle nests and 23 hawksbill turtle nests (Eretmochelys imbricata) throughout the past year. According to Adnan, conservation efforts have also contributed significantly to the state's ecotourism industry. In 2025, turtle conservation centres in Terengganu attracted 219,095 visitors, including 185,804 visitors to the Turtle Conservation and Information Centre (TCIC) in Rantau Abang. He added that 186 conservation education and awareness programmes were conducted during the year to enhance public understanding of the importance of protecting marine ecosystems and endangered wildlife. “Protecting turtles means protecting marine ecosystems, safeguarding fisheries resources and preserving the nation’s natural heritage for future generations,” he said. Meanwhile, Director-General of the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN), Datuk Abdul Kadir Abu Hashim, said a total of 32 wildlife specimens, comprising mammals, birds and birds of prey, were released in conjunction with the World Oceans Day celebration. The release involved 22 jungle fowl, four woodcocks, two porcupines and four eagles from three species -- the red-backed sea-eagle (Brahminy kite), Changeable Hawk-Eagle and White-bellied Sea Eagle. Abdul Kadir said the wildlife release programme forms part of the country’s broader biodiversity conservation efforts while also helping to raise public awareness about the importance of protecting natural habitats. He explained that such releases are conducted periodically, particularly when there is a surplus of suitable wildlife that can contribute to species enrichment in selected habitats. Among the locations that have benefited from previous species release programmes is Langkawi Island, where the released wildlife has shown positive adaptation to its natural environment. “The survival of wildlife depends greatly on the availability of food sources, suitable habitats, water resources and breeding opportunities,” he said. He also urged the public to play an active role in protecting wildlife by reporting illegal hunting activities, snare traps or the use of poison to the nearest PERHILITAN office. “Conservation is a shared responsibility, and public cooperation is crucial in ensuring the sustainability of the country’s wildlife and natural ecosystems,” he added. -- BERNAMA

KUALA NERUS, June 9 –A total of 757,869 baby turtles were successfully hatched and released into the sea in Terengganu last year, underscoring the effectiveness of ongoing marine conservation efforts to protect endangered turtle species and preserve the country’s marine biodiversity. Fisheries Director-General Datuk Adnan Hussain said the achievement was recorded under the Terengganu Turtle […]

Man Arrested After Reckless Driving On Highway, Drugs Found In Possession

BUKIT MERTAJAM, June 9 -- Police have arrested a 29-year-old local man after a video showing a Mitsubishi Triton being driven recklessly and colliding with several vehicles on the North-South Expressway went viral on social media. Seberang Perai Tengah police chief ACP Nik Aminuddin Raja Abdullah said the suspect was apprehended by members of the public on the Butterworth-Kulim Expressway (BKE) near Seberang Jaya before being handed over to police officers. He said police received information regarding the incident at 10.05 am yesterday and preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect was believed to have driven dangerously from the Sungai Dua area towards Penang, striking several vehicles along the route. “The suspect was successfully detained by members of the public in the BKE area opposite a petrol station in Seberang Jaya before being handed over to police personnel who arrived at the scene. “An inspection of a crossbody bag carried by the suspect uncovered a transparent plastic packet containing crystal-like substances suspected to be methamphetamine weighing 0.75 grammes, as well as another packet containing white crystalline substances believed to be ketamine weighing 2.38 grammes,” he said in a statement last night. Nik Aminuddin said urine screening tests conducted on the suspect returned positive results for methamphetamine and morphine. Further checks revealed that the suspect has an extensive criminal history, including 15 records related to drug offences and two records involving other criminal offences. He said the suspect has been detained for further investigation under Section 12(3) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 and was scheduled to be brought before the Bukit Mertajam Magistrate’s Court today for a remand application. Meanwhile, investigations into the collisions are being conducted by the Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Division (BSPT) of the Seberang Perai Tengah District Police Headquarters under Section 44(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for driving under the influence of drugs and causing an accident. Nik Aminuddin said police are also working to identify and locate all victims and independent witnesses who were present during the incident to assist with the investigation. Members of the public with relevant information have been urged to contact the investigating officer, Inspector Vignesh Kalaiselvan, at 011-14572390 or report to the nearest police station. Earlier, a video widely shared on social media showed a Mitsubishi Triton being driven recklessly in the Seberang Jaya area, triggering concern among road users and the wider public. – BERNAMA

BUKIT MERTAJAM, June 9 — Police have arrested a 29-year-old local man after a video showing a Mitsubishi Triton being driven recklessly and colliding with several vehicles on the North-South Expressway went viral on social media. Seberang Perai Tengah police chief ACP Nik Aminuddin Raja Abdullah said the suspect was apprehended by members of the […]

Pakatan Harapan Negeri Sembilan to Launch State Election Machinery on June 12

SEREMBAN, June 9 — Pakatan Harapan (PH) Negeri Sembilan has announced the launch of its state election machinery, with party members, volunteers and supporters invited to attend the event as preparations intensify ahead of the upcoming state polls. The launch ceremony will take place on June 12 (Friday) at 8.00 pm at Karisma Arena in Seremban. PH leaders said the event aims to unite party members and supporters under a common mission to strengthen the coalition’s election campaign and mobilise grassroots efforts across the state. The gathering is expected to serve as a platform to reinforce solidarity, strengthen the coalition’s organisational machinery and rally support for its vision of a more progressive, prosperous and harmonious Negeri Sembilan. Organisers have called on the public, party members, volunteers and supporters from across the state to attend the event and demonstrate their commitment to PH’s agenda for Negeri Sembilan and Malaysia. “Hope for Negeri Sembilan. Hope for Malaysia,” the coalition said in its call to supporters ahead of the launch. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB PAKATAN HARAPAN

SEREMBAN, June 9 — Pakatan Harapan (PH) Negeri Sembilan has announced the launch of its state election machinery, with party members, volunteers and supporters invited to attend the event as preparations intensify ahead of the upcoming state polls. The launch ceremony will take place on June 12 (Friday) at 8.00 pm at Karisma Arena in […]

Government Allocates Additional RM1 Million to Support AIMST Students – PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, June 9 -- Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday engaged with students of AIMST University during the Annual Government Grant Presentation Ceremony and a "Temu Anwar" dialogue session held in an open and meaningful atmosphere. Addressing students at the university in Bedong, Kedah, Anwar stressed that a nation's progress should not be measured solely by economic growth, investment inflows, or employment opportunities, but also by the extent to which all segments of society experience justice and equality. He said Malaysia must not become complacent with its current achievements and should continue striving to create a more inclusive and equitable society. Drawing inspiration from renowned social reformer Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Anwar highlighted the importance of championing justice, human dignity, and equal opportunities for all, noting that Ambedkar rose above discrimination and marginalisation to become a leading advocate for social equality. The Prime Minister also reiterated the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, reminding students that while the world has enough resources to meet everyone's needs, it can never satisfy the greed of a few. He emphasised that values such as compassion, mutual respect, and moderation must remain central to building a civilised and harmonious society. Anwar called on the younger generation to embrace fresh idealism, reject politics rooted in hatred and racism, and help shape Malaysia’s future based on knowledge, unity, and justice. Reaffirming the MADANI Government’s commitment to social justice, he announced that, in addition to the annual RM25 million government grant provided to AIMST University, the government had approved an additional RM1 million allocation to help more students from underprivileged families gain access to quality higher education. The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the late Tun S. Samy Vellu for his contributions and role in the establishment of AIMST University, describing education as a vital pathway for young Malaysians to uplift themselves, their communities, and the nation. He encouraged students to make full use of the educational opportunities available to them and contribute meaningfully to the country's future development. -- MINUTESMY

KUALA LUMPUR, June 9 — Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday engaged with students of AIMST University during the Annual Government Grant Presentation Ceremony and a “Temu Anwar” dialogue session held in an open and meaningful atmosphere. Addressing students at the university in Bedong, Kedah, Anwar stressed that a nation’s progress should not be […]

PM Anwar Arrives in Tokyo for Official Visit to Strengthen Malaysia-Japan Strategic Ties

KUALA LUMPUR, June 9 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has safely arrived at Haneda International Airport in Tokyo yesterday, marking the beginning of his official visit to Japan under Malaysia’s MADANI Diplomacy initiative. The visit, which runs until Wednesday, aims to strengthen bilateral relations between Malaysia and Japan while exploring new avenues of strategic cooperation that can bring mutual benefits to both nations. During the visit, Anwar will lead the Malaysian delegation in a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Discussions are expected to focus on enhancing diplomatic ties, expanding strategic partnerships, and identifying new opportunities for collaboration, particularly in the areas of energy security and regional stability. The Prime Minister is also scheduled to meet with key leaders from Japan’s industrial sector to promote Malaysia as a preferred investment destination and attract high-quality investments that can contribute to the country’s economic growth and development. In a statement, Anwar expressed hope that the diplomatic mission would proceed smoothly and deliver meaningful outcomes for Malaysia and its people. The official visit reflects the MADANI Government’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships, boosting investor confidence, and ensuring long-term economic and energy security for the nation. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

KUALA LUMPUR, June 9 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has safely arrived at Haneda International Airport in Tokyo yesterday, marking the beginning of his official visit to Japan under Malaysia’s MADANI Diplomacy initiative. The visit, which runs until Wednesday, aims to strengthen bilateral relations between Malaysia and Japan while exploring new avenues of […]