Day: June 16, 2026

UMT Upholds Integrity Of Public University Admissions System

KUALA NERUS, June 16 -- Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the transparency and integrity of the system and mechanisms governing student admissions to public universities. UMT Corporate Communications Office director Zukiferee Ibrahim said the university views seriously a statement by Jitra assemblyman Dr Haim Hilman Abdullah, who alleged that places at public universities were being sold and that backdoor admissions were being offered to students who did not meet academic entry requirements. He said such allegations could create negative perceptions of the transparency of public higher education institutions (IPTAs) and erode public confidence in the integrity of the national education system. “The admission system for public universities in Malaysia is implemented through a transparent and orderly mechanism, and is subject to policies and regulations set by the relevant authorities. “Therefore, any statement that could mislead the public or cast doubt on the process should be examined based on credible facts and evidence,” he said in a statement today. Following the allegations, Zukiferee said UMT's management had lodged a police report against the Kedah state executive councillor to enable a professional, independent and comprehensive investigation to be carried out. He said that, as a public institution of higher learning, UMT would remain committed to upholding the integrity, transparency and credibility of the country's higher education system in the interests of students, society and national development. -- BERNAMA

KUALA NERUS, June 16 — Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the transparency and integrity of the system and mechanisms governing student admissions to public universities. UMT Corporate Communications Office director Zukiferee Ibrahim said the university views seriously a statement by Jitra assemblyman Dr Haim Hilman Abdullah, who alleged that places […]

17 countries welcome US-Iran deal, urge reopening of Strait of Hormuz

ISTANBUL, JUNE 16 -- A group of 17 countries on Monday welcomed the memorandum of understanding (MoU) announced between the United States (US) and Iran, describing it as an opportunity to restore regional stability and support the global economy, Anadolu Ajansi reported. "This is an opportunity to restore regional stability and stabilize the global economy," according to a joint statement by the United Kingdom (UK), France, Germany and Italy. The statement was later signed by 13 other countries. They congratulated the US, Iran and mediators including Pakistan and Qatar on what they described as a diplomatic success. The leaders stressed that detailed negotiations should be concluded and the agreement implemented "swiftly and comprehensively," adding that they stand ready to assist the process. They also called for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the restoration of "unconditional and unrestricted freedom of navigation." Other countries that signed the statement were Japan, Canada, Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, the Greek Cypriot Administration, the Dominican Republic, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Latvia, Poland and Portugal. The group of leaders said they were committed to contributing to the effort, including through "resolute independent defense missions" aimed at reassuring commercial shipping and conducting mine clearance operations, in accordance with their respective constitutional requirements. The statement reiterated that Iran "must never acquire nuclear weapons" and expressed its willingness to work with the US, Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) towards that objective. The leaders also said they were ready to lift related sanctions in response to "clear and verifiable steps" by Iran on its nuclear program. They pledged to work closely with the US, Iran and regional partners to maintain momentum and reach a long-term diplomatic solution. It further reaffirmed support for the stability, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon and stressed the importance of a firm ceasefire. Regional tensions have escalated since late February after the US and Israel launched air strikes on Iran, killing more than 3,000 people. Tehran responded with attacks on Gulf states and Israel, as well as a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Washington and Tehran reached a temporary ceasefire on April 8 through Pakistani mediation before announcing a framework agreement to end the conflict. The agreement is expected to be officially signed in Switzerland on July 19. -- BERNAMA-ANADOLU

ISTANBUL, JUNE 16 — A group of 17 countries on Monday welcomed the memorandum of understanding (MoU) announced between the United States (US) and Iran, describing it as an opportunity to restore regional stability and support the global economy, Anadolu Ajansi reported. “This is an opportunity to restore regional stability and stabilize the global economy,” […]

RICOH Brings AI Beyond Concept Through Real-World Operational Applications

SELANGOR, 16 June 2026 – RICOH Malaysia (“RICOH”) today unveiled a suite of AI, automation, and integrated technology solutions at “RICOH Empowering AI – Smarter Work, Real Impact” held at M World Hotel, Petaling Jaya. The event highlighted how businesses are increasingly shifting beyond AI experimentation towards practical, real-world applications that can be integrated into operational environments across various industries such as logistics, manufacturing, inspection, and workplace operations. The showcase comes amid a broader industry push towards industrial automation and smart operations in Malaysia, particularly under the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), which targets the development of 3,000 smart factories through the adoption of automation, artificial intelligence, and advanced technologies. Against this backdrop, RICOH demonstrated how intelligent technologies can be integrated into operational workflows to improve visibility, reduce manual processes, and support more responsive operations across different business environments. The event was officiated by RICOH’s Chief Digital Officer, APAC Region, Mr. Satoshi Tsugane, alongside Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) President Jacob Lee Chor Kok and RICOH Malaysia’s Managing Director Alice Lee, underscoring growing collaboration between industry, technology providers, and policymakers in supporting Malaysia’s industrial modernization efforts. RICOH’s Chief Digital Officer, APAC Region, Mr. Satoshi Tsugane, said organisations across the region are increasingly moving beyond AI experimentation towards solutions that can deliver measurable business value. “As businesses continue their digital transformation journeys, there is growing demand for solutions that can connect information, workflows, and people more effectively. Our focus is on helping organisations apply intelligent technologies in ways that create meaningful operational value and support long-term business transformation,” he said. The showcase reflected growing business demand for more connected and intelligent operational environments, as organisations increasingly seek technologies that can improve coordination, operational visibility, and responsiveness across workflows. Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) President Jacob Lee Chor Kok said businesses are placing greater focus on technologies that can improve efficiency, visibility, and responsiveness as Malaysia strengthens its position as a regional manufacturing and logistics hub. “Manufacturers are under increasing pressure to improve productivity and competitiveness amid increasingly complex operating environments. The challenge is no longer just adopting technology, but integrating solutions that can deliver measurable improvements,” he said, adding that cross-industry showcases also help businesses better understand how automation and intelligent technologies can be applied within real operational environments. The showcase also highlighted how intelligent technologies are being applied across several operational areas, including: AI as the enabler of operational precision – Intelligent inspection systems designed to support greater accuracy and consistency in real operational environments, including smartphone defect detection, fiber optic inspection, and print quality monitoring. AI as the driver of workflow intelligence – Integrated workplace and workflow solutions aimed at improving information accessibility, coordination, and operational efficiency across day-to-day business processes. AI as the foundation for connected operations – Integrated automation and AI-powered technologies designed to support more connected, adaptable, and responsive operational workflows across different business environments. RICOH Malaysia’s Managing Director, Alice Lee, said the conversation around AI is increasingly shifting from possibility to implementation as organisations look for technologies that can integrate seamlessly into operational workflows while delivering measurable impact. “At RICOH, our focus is on helping businesses operationalise intelligent technologies in practical and scalable ways across different operational environments, from logistics and manufacturing to inspection and workplace coordination. The showcase reflects how AI can be applied in real operational settings, with solutions that can adapt to different business requirements and support more connected and responsive operations. The priority is not just automation, but helping organisations build long-term operational agility and competitiveness,” she added. As organisations continue accelerating digitalisation and automation efforts, the showcase highlights the growing role of intelligent technologies in helping businesses improve operational visibility, responsiveness, and decision-making, while supporting more connected and adaptable ways of working across increasingly complex environments. About Ricoh Ricoh is a global integrator in workplace transformation, operating in approximately 200 countries and regions and headquartered in Tokyo. Supporting customers' value creation, Ricoh offers workplace services and solutions that empower organizations to work smarter through advanced technologies—including AI— together with long-standing expertise rooted in printing. Ricoh also operates commercial and industrial printing businesses and delivers new solutions leveraging inkjet technology. In the financial year ended March 2026, Ricoh Group had worldwide sales of 2,608 billion yen (approx. 16.4 billion USD). For 90 years since our founding, Ricoh has upheld its mission and vision of empowering individuals to find Fulfillment through Work—and that commitment continues today. By understanding and transforming how people work, we unleash their potential and creativity to realize a sustainable future. For further information, please visit www.ricoh.com   -- RICOH

SELANGOR, 16 June 2026 – RICOH Malaysia (“RICOH”) today unveiled a suite of AI, automation, and integrated technology solutions at “RICOH Empowering AI – Smarter Work, Real Impact” held at M World Hotel, Petaling Jaya. The event highlighted how businesses are increasingly shifting beyond AI experimentation towards practical, real-world applications that can be integrated into […]

Animal Feed Factory Raided Over Suspected Flour Storage Violation

BALING, June 16 – The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Kedah branch raided an animal feed processing factory in the Kuala Ketil Industrial Area yesterday over the suspected storage of wheat flour without proper authorisation. Kedah KPDN director Muhammad Nizam Jamaludin said four enforcement personnel from the Baling branch carried out the operation at about 4.30 pm. “The inspection uncovered wheat flour believed to have been used in the company's animal feed processing activities,” he said in a statement today. A total of 53,325 kilogrammes of flour, valued at an estimated RM100,251, was seized for further investigation. Muhammad Nizam said a 25-year-old local man, who identified himself as the factory manager, failed to produce a permit or approval from the Supply Controller for storing the flour. The case is being investigated under Section 21 of the Control of Supplies Act 1961 (Act 122) he said, adding that firm action would be taken against any party found misusing or diverting subsidised goods. -- BERNAMA

BALING, June 16 – The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Kedah branch raided an animal feed processing factory in the Kuala Ketil Industrial Area yesterday over the suspected storage of wheat flour without proper authorisation. Kedah KPDN director Muhammad Nizam Jamaludin said four enforcement personnel from the Baling branch carried out the […]

Sultan Nazrin officially opens SOCSO Rehabilitation Centre, agrees to name it after him

IPOH, JUNE 16 -- The Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, departed to officiate the opening of the Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) Neuro-Robotics and Cybernics Rehabilitation Centre in Meru Raya, here, today. Sultan Nazrin also agreed that the centre, whose design was inspired by the art of gold thread embossing, be named the Sultan Nazrin Shah SOCSO Rehabilitation Centre. Also departing were the Raja Muda of Perak, Raja Jaafar Raja Muda Musa and the Raja of Lower Perak Raja Iskandar Dzulkarnain Sultan Idris Shah. Also present were the Menteri Besar of Perak, Datuk Saarani Mohamad and the Minister of Human Resources, Datuk Seri R. Ramanan. In his opening address, Sultan Nazrin said that the centre is not just a complex equipped with modern and sophisticated equipment, but is also staffed with experts in the fields of medicine and health, assistive technology, physiotherapy, as well as occupational and vocational therapy, social guidance and psychological support. "This centre is not just a health facility, but symbolises a migration of thought - a migration of approach, realising the country's vision and desire to modernise rehabilitation and high-tech services, strengthened with services that prioritise human values ​​and appreciate human values." "This centre should be seen as a symbol that the country values ​​every life, every worker and every family, a symbol that misfortune is not the end of life, a symbol that with the right system, a caring society and opportunities provided, a person does not have to live on the kindness of others, but can return to building a dignified future," his Majesty said. Sultan Nazrin said the centre, whose idea for its construction was sparked by Ipoh Barat Member of Parliament, M. Kulasegaran when he held the position of Human Resources Minister from 2018 to 2020, gives new hope to patients and families and builds new confidence that injury is not the end of life. His Majesty said that the centre should be able to impress upon patients and families that with the right treatment, appropriate technology and an unbroken spirit, a person is capable of rising again. "For a stroke patient, this center may be a place to help them learn to move their limbs again, for workers who have suffered nerve injuries, this center may be a place to rebuild physical and mental strength." "For someone who has suffered a traumatic brain injury, this centre may be a place to retrain memory, speech and self-confidence. For their families, this centre can be a place to shine a light of hope," said Sultan Nazrin. His Majesty also stressed that society needs to eliminate prejudice against those with physical disabilities and come forward to assist SOCSO's efforts by opening up job opportunities for those who have completed rehabilitation treatment so that they can return to living independently. "The effort pioneered by SOCSO to enter into a collaboration with 7-Eleven to provide a post-career work training program, with the potential to offer jobs, is a strategic approach. "Hopefully more private parties will come forward to offer CSR (corporate social responsibility) programs with SOCSO rehabilitation centers, offer vocational training and provide post-rehabilitation job opportunities," said Sultan Nazrin. His Majesty said that it is the fardu kifayah and responsibility of every human being to help ease the burden of those who face divine tests and are burdened by life's trials. Sultan Nazrin said that a country's progress is not only measured by its imposing rows of skyscrapers, crisscrossing flyovers, or large ports and airports, or high economic growth figures. "Real progress lies in the country's ability and determination to introduce and implement social programs to preserve human dignity, defend the weak, and provide a second chance to anyone who is unfortunate enough to be tested by illness, injury or disability," said His Majesty. -- BERNAMA

IPOH, JUNE 16 — The Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, departed to officiate the opening of the Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) Neuro-Robotics and Cybernics Rehabilitation Centre in Meru Raya, here, today. Sultan Nazrin also agreed that the centre, whose design was inspired by the art of gold thread embossing, be named the Sultan Nazrin […]

Journalism’s Core Values Must Endure In The Age Of AI

KUALA LUMPUR, June 16 -- The rapid evolution of technology, from the era of typewriters to artificial intelligence (AI), has transformed the journalism landscape, enabling news production and dissemination to take place faster than ever before. However, despite these technological advancements, both veteran and young journalists agree that journalism’s fundamental values -- ethics, integrity, accuracy and the human touch -- must continue to be upheld to ensure reporting remains credible and trustworthy. Sabah Journalists Association (SJA) adviser Datuk Muguntan Vanar, 61, said these values are the strongest safeguard in the age of AI and social media, ensuring mainstream media continues to earn public trust. “It is important for journalists to uphold accuracy, fairness, independence, transparency and accountability so readers continue to place their trust in us. “Today, false and half-truth information spreads rapidly through social media. If we do not want the journalism profession to face further threats, we must defend the core values of journalism,” he told Bernama. Reflecting on his early career during the typewriter era, Muguntan said the experience taught him to appreciate the discipline and precision required in journalism. “Every word carried weight. We could not simply delete text at the press of a button because even a minor spelling or sentence error meant retyping an entire page. “The typewriter also brought its own character to the newsroom through its constant rhythm and sound. For our generation, it made journalism feel truly alive,” he said. He noted that technological advancement has significantly changed the way journalists gather information, with interviews that were once conducted face-to-face now commonly conducted by telephone or via messaging applications. Describing AI as both an opportunity and a challenge, Muguntan said the technology can improve efficiency but may also pose risks to journalistic and editorial ethics if not used responsibly. “I believe AI will eventually take over many aspects of journalistic work. However, the core values of journalism must always be preserved to maintain the human element in news reporting,” he said. Meanwhile, Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) economics desk reporter Muhammad Fawwaz Thaqif Nor Afandi, 25, said young journalists must remain committed to journalistic principles to ensure the media continues to serve as a reliable source of authentic information. “AI can be used as a tool to gather information, verify facts and improve grammar, but not to write news entirely. Original writing style and the human touch are essential to preserving a journalist’s identity,” he said. Inspired by former Director-General of Broadcasting Datuk Suhaimi Sulaiman, Fawwaz said he aspires to become an ethical journalist with strong integrity and a commitment to delivering accurate reporting to the public. Malaysia Gazette journalist Nur Arina Asbar, 25, said young journalists must be more aware of their surroundings, especially amid the growing spread of misinformation on social media. “In the race to report viral issues quickly, journalists must verify every piece of information they receive so that published reports are accurate and authentic,” she said. Nur Arina cited Zainal Abdul Rashid (ZRA), the first Malaysian journalist to enter Israel and Palestine to produce a special report, as her inspiration in journalism. For Astro Awani journalist Nurul Shafiqa Azami, 25, one of the biggest challenges facing journalists today is obtaining authentic sources as AI-generated content and manipulated images become increasingly common. “As a young journalist, I use AI technology to help identify news intros and gather background information on issues when preparing reports. “However, journalists cannot rely entirely on AI for writing if we want to preserve the human touch in every news story,” she said. Nurul Shafiqa added that television personality Jasmine Abu Bakar and Astro Awani editor Assim Mohammad Hassan continue to inspire her journey in the media industry. -- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, June 16 — The rapid evolution of technology, from the era of typewriters to artificial intelligence (AI), has transformed the journalism landscape, enabling news production and dissemination to take place faster than ever before. However, despite these technological advancements, both veteran and young journalists agree that journalism’s fundamental values — ethics, integrity, accuracy and […]

AT&S EXPANSION IN KULIM SIGNALS STRONG GLOBAL CONFIDENCE IN MALAYSIA – PM ANWAR

KUALA LUMPUR, June 16 -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has welcomed the decision by global semiconductor manufacturer AT&S to expand its operations in Kulim, Kedah, describing it as a strong endorsement of Malaysia’s growing role as a high-value technology investment destination. Anwar said the outcome followed constructive meetings and discussions held earlier in June, which have now borne fruit with AT&S expressing its commitment to scale up its presence in the country. He said the investment is expected to further strengthen Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem, while creating more high-skilled job opportunities for Malaysians, particularly in engineering, advanced manufacturing, and digital technology sectors. “The confidence shown by international investors such as AT&S demonstrates that clear policies, political stability, good governance, and the government’s commitment to economic transformation are placing Malaysia firmly on the right track as a preferred destination for advanced technology investment,” he said. Anwar added that this development reflects Malaysia’s continued progress in building a strong and competitive digital economy, driven by tangible and high-impact investments that support long-term national growth. He said the expansion also reinforces mutual trust between Malaysia and global investors, while positioning the country as a key regional hub for next-generation semiconductor development and innovation. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

KUALA LUMPUR, June 16 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has welcomed the decision by global semiconductor manufacturer AT&S to expand its operations in Kulim, Kedah, describing it as a strong endorsement of Malaysia’s growing role as a high-value technology investment destination. Anwar said the outcome followed constructive meetings and discussions held earlier in […]

Nurse among five remanded for selling fake sick leave certificates

PEKAN, JUNE 15 -- Five individuals, including a nurse, have been remanded for three to four days starting today to assist in the investigation into the sale and purchase of suspected invalid sick leave certificates (MC). The remand order against all the suspects, aged 33 to 55, was issued by Magistrate Melody Woon Sze Mun at the Magistrate's Court here to enable the police to conduct investigations under Section 420 and Section 468 of the Penal Code. Pekan District Police Chief Superintendent Mohd Zaidi Mat Zin said all the suspects were arrested in an operation around Kampung Marhum and Kampung Kuala Pahang here, between 3pm and 10pm last night. Yesterday, Mohd Zaidi said initial investigations found that the MCs were believed to be sold at prices between RM50 and RM200 a piece. He said the activity was believed to be carried out in a planned manner with the involvement of individuals who acted as middlemen to find customers and manage the sale of fake sick leave certificates. -- BERNAMA

PEKAN, JUNE 15 — Five individuals, including a nurse, have been remanded for three to four days starting today to assist in the investigation into the sale and purchase of suspected invalid sick leave certificates (MC). The remand order against all the suspects, aged 33 to 55, was issued by Magistrate Melody Woon Sze Mun […]

Sabah MACC’s new building expected to be completed by the end of this year

KOTA KINABALU: The new Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Sabah building on Jalan Sepanggar, here, which is currently 90 percent complete, is expected to be completed by the end of this year. MACC Chief Commissioner, Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman said the building will house all MACC staff who are currently in three separate offices. "We need to have our own building because it is a solid platform for us to act, carry out our duties as a truly independent and neutral identity," he said. He said this to Bernama and TV3 after visiting the Sabah MACC Office at the Federal Government Administration Complex Building, here yesterday. Also present was Sabah MACC Director, Datuk Mohd Fuad Bee Basrah. He said that by placing the commission's staff under one roof, communication between officers, controls and technical matters would be improved. Meanwhile, Abd Halim expressed his appreciation to the media for always providing the best coverage in every report involving the MACC. He said the media cooperation was in line with MACC's efforts to combat corruption in the country. However, Abd Halim at the same time reminded the media to maintain the sensitivity of the identity of third parties who are suspects in a case. "Avoid posting the suspects' appearances because they are just suspects, not yet accused," he said. He said media practitioners also need to be responsible for the accuracy of reports by obtaining authentic information from legitimate sources. He said this was to avoid any negative perceptions and to avoid publishing provocative or speculative news. "Ensure the authenticity and authenticity of the news, don't make it a delusion for some parties and a source of speculation," he said. -- BERNAMA

KOTA KINABALU: The new Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Sabah building on Jalan Sepanggar, here, which is currently 90 percent complete, is expected to be completed by the end of this year. MACC Chief Commissioner, Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman said the building will house all MACC staff who are currently in three separate offices. “We […]

Malaysia’s Hidden Wonders: Rediscovering the Beauty of Domestic Travel in 2026

As international travel continues to recover, many Malaysians are turning their attention closer to home and discovering that some of the country's most memorable experiences can be found within its own borders. From pristine islands and ancient rainforests to heritage towns rich with culture, Malaysia offers a diverse range of destinations that cater to every type of traveller. Increasingly, local tourists are seeking authentic experiences, choosing nature retreats, eco-tourism adventures and cultural explorations over crowded commercial attractions. One destination gaining popularity is Langkawi, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from the Sky Bridge, relax on white sandy beaches and experience world-class hospitality. Meanwhile, the Perhentian Islands continue to attract travellers looking for crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and a slower pace of life. For those interested in history and culture, George Town and Melaka remain among the country's most treasured destinations. Their colourful streets, colonial architecture and renowned food scenes provide visitors with a unique glimpse into Malaysia's multicultural heritage. Nature lovers are also spoilt for choice. Taman Negara, one of the world's oldest tropical rainforests, offers jungle trekking, canopy walks and wildlife encounters. In Sabah, Mount Kinabalu continues to inspire adventurers with its stunning landscapes and challenging summit climb. Tourism experts note that domestic travel is becoming increasingly popular due to affordability, improved infrastructure and a growing appreciation for local experiences. Social media has also played a significant role in highlighting lesser-known destinations that were once overlooked. As Malaysia continues to promote sustainable tourism, travellers are encouraged to explore responsibly, support local communities and preserve the natural beauty that makes the country a unique destination. Whether it is a weekend road trip, an island escape or a cultural journey through historic towns, Malaysia remains a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be rediscovered. -- MINUTESMY / SUGAN BALAN

As international travel continues to recover, many Malaysians are turning their attention closer to home and discovering that some of the country’s most memorable experiences can be found within its own borders. From pristine islands and ancient rainforests to heritage towns rich with culture, Malaysia offers a diverse range of destinations that cater to every […]