Day: June 18, 2026

Johor election: “Poster boy” is no guarantee of becoming MB – Onn Hafiz

JOHOR BAHRU, JUNE 18 -- Being a poster boy or the main character representing a party's campaign in an election is not a guarantee of being appointed as Menteri Besar if a new government is successfully formed. Johor Menteri Besar, Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, said that the approval of the palace, especially the Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim and the Regent Sultan of Johor Tunku Mahkota Ismail, was very important in determining who would lead the state government. "As Menteri Besar, I will be seen as the ' poster boy ', that's normal." "But we are clear that whatever the circumstances, the one who will determine who the menteri besar is is the Sultan of Johor or the Regent Sultan of Johor." "The approval of the Johor Palace is very important," he said in a special interview with print media practitioners and news portals at Saujana, his official residence, yesterday. The poster boy strategy , which is usually used in every election, is important to build and attract voter confidence to support candidates from the contesting party. He also shared advice from the Johor Palace for all parties to maintain good manners and discipline during the campaign period. He said that mutual respect is important to practice despite differences in political beliefs and ideologies. "There's no need to curse or insult. Maintain good manners, that's what your Majesty says," he said. In another development, Onn Hafiz said that feedback from the Johor Palace and the people was one of the yardsticks used to see their performance level over the past four years. "For me and all the Exco members, I always remind myself and them that feedback on the government's performance needs to come from two parties, not just from me." "When the people and the Palace say that we have carried out our duties well, that is when we can consider that the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) set have been successfully achieved. "But if one of them, whether it's the Royal Institution or the people, gives feedback that we're not doing our job well, in my opinion, we're not doing our responsibility well. We're always sensitive to the feedback given," he said. The Johor state election is set for July 11, while the nomination of candidates is on June 27. -- BERNAMA

JOHOR BAHRU, JUNE 18 — Being a poster boy or the main character representing a party’s campaign in an election is not a guarantee of being appointed as Menteri Besar if a new government is successfully formed. Johor Menteri Besar, Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, said that the approval of the palace, especially the Sultan of […]

PM Anwar Attends ASEAN-Russia Summit Gala Dinner Hosted by President Putin

ST. PETERSBURG, June 18 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim attended the Gala Dinner held in conjunction with the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit, hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The event showcased Russia's rich cultural heritage and history, highlighting the country's diverse traditions and the significant contributions of Islamic civilisation in shaping its national identity and societal development. Beyond the cultural presentations, the gala dinner provided an important platform for leaders from ASEAN member states and Russia to strengthen friendships, exchange views, and foster closer cooperation on issues of mutual interest. Anwar said such engagements are particularly valuable at a time when the global community continues to face various challenges and uncertainties, ranging from geopolitical tensions to economic and security concerns. He noted that opportunities for direct interaction among leaders help deepen mutual understanding, build trust, and explore new avenues of collaboration that can bring tangible benefits to both ASEAN and Russia. The ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit serves as a key platform to enhance dialogue and cooperation across multiple sectors, reflecting the longstanding partnership between ASEAN and Russia and their shared commitment to regional stability, sustainable development, and economic growth. The summit brings together leaders from ASEAN member countries and Russia to discuss strategic issues and strengthen ties amid an increasingly complex global landscape.

ST. PETERSBURG, June 18 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim attended the Gala Dinner held in conjunction with the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit, hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The event showcased Russia’s rich cultural heritage and history, highlighting the country’s diverse traditions and the significant contributions of Islamic civilisation in shaping its national identity […]

Delta Thailand Highlights Integrated Smart and Green Manufacturing Solutions for Intelligent Factory Operations at Manufacturing Expo 2026

BANGKOK, June 18 -- Delta Electronics (Thailand) Public Company Limited, a global leader in power management and smart green solutions, is showcasing its integrated smart manufacturing solutions at Manufacturing Expo 2026 under the theme "Enabling Smart and Sustainable Manufacturing Excellence with Integrated Automation Solutions." The showcase is demonstrating how Delta helps manufacturers enhance productivity, operational visibility, and sustainability performance across the factory by integrating automation, AI-powered inspection, digital twin technologies, smart warehouse systems, and energy management solutions into intelligent manufacturing ecosystems.    "The future of manufacturing will be defined by how well companies connect operational intelligence across the entire factory ecosystem," said Ms. Atitaya Surapunthu, Country Manager, Delta Thailand. "Manufacturers need greater visibility across production, energy usage, logistics, and facilities to improve resilience, efficiency, and sustainability simultaneously. Delta's integrated solutions help manufacturers transform siloed operations into connected, data-driven ecosystems that improve visibility, optimize performance, and enable smarter, more agile, and more sustainable manufacturing." At Manufacturing Expo 2026, Delta highlights three key smart manufacturing solution pillars: Integrated, Intelligent Manufacturing Delta showcases automation solutions that combine robotics, AI-powered inspection, servo press technologies, smart screwdriving systems, and press-fit machines for PCBA manufacturing, addressing the growing demands of the E&E and AI server assembly industries. These solutions enhance production precision, assembly consistency, traceability, and operational efficiency, while reducing manual intervention through real-time monitoring and intelligent analytics. Smart Factory Digitalization  Delta's factory digitalization solutions integrate the DIAEAP+ Equipment Automation Program and DIATwin digital twin platform to provide manufacturers with real-time production visibility, predictive insights, and data-driven operational intelligence. In E&E manufacturing, DIATwin enables manufacturers to virtually simulate, verify, and optimize machine performance before physical deployment, helping reduce trial-and-error adjustments, minimize downtime, accelerate new product introduction, and improve manufacturing precision, efficiency, and reliability. Smart Infrastructure, Energy & Logistics Management Delta demonstrates integrated facility and logistics management solutions that combine HVAC optimization, energy management systems, FMCS (Facility Monitoring & Control System), warehouse management systems. Together, these technologies help manufacturers improve material flow, warehouse visibility, energy efficiency, operational reliability, and carbon reduction performance across factory operations. Delta's integrated solutions support manufacturers in improving product quality, operational efficiency, material flow, asset visibility, energy efficiency, and carbon reduction across factory operations. As a trusted solutions provider, Delta delivers proven technologies that have been successfully deployed across customer manufacturing environments, supporting customers from solution design and system integration to implementation and delivery. The company's technologies enable smarter and more sustainable manufacturing practices while supporting customers' long-term Net Zero and RE100 sustainability goals. Delta invites visitors to Hall 98, Booth 8K11 at Manufacturing Expo 2026 to explore how its integrated automation and smart manufacturing solutions enable connected intelligence across factory operations. Through automation, digitalization, AI-powered technologies, and energy transparency, Delta supports manufacturers in building smarter, greener, and more competitive industrial operations. About Delta Electronics (Thailand) Public Company Limited Founded in 1988, Delta Electronics (Thailand) PCL. is a producer of power and thermal management products and solutions. The company is a subsidiary of Delta Electronics, Inc. with the mission statement, "To provide innovative, clean and energy-efficient solutions for a better tomorrow," which reflects the company's strong belief in sustainable development especially with issues related to the environment. As an energy-saving solutions provider with core competencies in power electronics and innovative research and development, Delta's business categories include Power Electronics, Mobility, Automation and Infrastructure. The company's global presence is supported by its sales offices in key regions around the world; manufacturing facilities in India, Slovakia and Thailand; and several R&D centers located in Thailand, India, Germany and other countries. Delta continues to earn numerous recognitions for its achievements in the region and domestically. Some awards won include the prestigious ASEAN Business Award, Stock Exchange of Thailand's Best Company Performance Award and the coveted Prime Minister's Best Industry Award. For detailed information about Delta Thailand, please visit: www.DeltaThailand.com -- PRNewswire -- Source: Delta Electronics    

BANGKOK, June 18 — Delta Electronics (Thailand) Public Company Limited, a global leader in power management and smart green solutions, is showcasing its integrated smart manufacturing solutions at Manufacturing Expo 2026 under the theme “Enabling Smart and Sustainable Manufacturing Excellence with Integrated Automation Solutions.” The showcase is demonstrating how Delta helps manufacturers enhance productivity, operational visibility, and […]

PMET Advances On-Site Lithium Refining Strategy Through Technology Collaboration MOU with Mitsui and MWCC

MOU to evaluate microwave calcination technology as a key enabling step in PMET's downstream strategy, leveraging the potential use of Québec's low-cost renewable hydroelectricity to support on-site lithium chemical processing MONTREAL, June 18 -- June 18, 2026 – Sydney, Australia Highlights PMET has entered into a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding ("MOU") with Mitsui & Co., Ltd. ("Mitsui") and Microwave Chemical Co., Ltd. ("MWCC") to jointly evaluate the application of MWCC's proprietary microwave calcination technology to produce higher-value lithium products on-site at Shaakichiuwaanaan. The collaboration builds on PMET's recently announced Concept Study (refer to News Release, 14 June 2026), which identified a potential pathway to produce battery-grade lithium carbonate at site and capture additional value within the lithium supply chain.   Microwave calcination has the potential to support electric calcination at site, which is the first step in the production of value-added lithium chemicals from spodumene concentrate, leveraging Québec's low-cost, renewable hydroelectric power as a potential alternative to conventional fossil fuel-based calcination. Pilot plant testing in Osaka will use spodumene samples supplied from Shaakichiuwaanaan, with MWCC leading the technical testing program and Mitsui supporting the evaluation of future commercialization and project development pathways. The initiative is aligned with PMET's longer term diversification strategy to reduce logistics intensity and enhance supply chain resilience, with potential benefits including reduced transportation requirements and lower truck traffic, reduced reliance on offshore conversion capacity, and the creation of a higher-value lithium product in Québec. The MOU is non-binding and non-exclusive, and any future commercial deployment remains subject to successful testing and demonstration at scale, technical and economic evaluation, definitive agreements, funding, permitting, approvals and other customary conditions. Ken Brinsden, CEO and Managing Director, comments: "This collaboration is a direct extension of the downstream growth strategy we outlined recently for Shaakichiuwaanaan. Our Concept Study identified a potential pathway to produce battery-grade lithium carbonate on site, and microwave calcination now represents an opportunity to evaluate one of the key enabling technologies that could support that vision. "Shaakichiuwaanaan is already one of the world's premier hard-rock lithium projects, and the collaboration with Mitsui and Microwave Chemical represents another important step in our strategy to evaluate additional value-creation opportunities beyond spodumene concentrate. "This MOU brings together PMET's high-quality lithium resource, MWCC's proprietary microwave calcination technology, and Mitsui's global project development and commercialization capabilities. It is an important next step in assessing how Shaakichiuwaanaan can leverage Québec's low-cost renewable hydroelectricity into a more integrated, Western-facing lithium supply chain that supports Québec, Canada and allied markets," added Mr. Brinsden. PMET Resources Inc. (the "Company" or "PMET") (TSX: PMET) (ASX: PMT) (OTCQX: PMETF) (FSE: R9GA) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with Mitsui & Co., Ltd. and Microwave Chemical Co., Ltd. to jointly evaluate the application of proprietary microwave calcination technology to spodumene samples from the Company's 100%-owned Shaakichiuwaanaan Project, located in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region of Québec, Canada. Background Calcination is a key initial processing step in the conversion of spodumene concentrate into downstream lithium chemicals, using heat to convert alpha-spodumene into beta-spodumene for subsequent lithium extraction. Historically, fossil fuels have been the key energy source (in the form of gas and/or coal) to create significant heat and the overall energy required to undertake the phase change (from alpha to beta spodumene). Mitsui & Co., Ltd. ("Mitsui") and Microwave Chemical Co., Ltd. ("MWCC") have launched a demonstration experiment for the joint development of microwave-based low-carbon lithium ore refining technology. Mitsui provides more information regarding their microwave calcination collaboration with MWCC, on their website. Québec's large-scale and renewable hydroelectricity scheme generates some of the lowest cost power available in North America. Harnessing this power for application in the spodumene calcination step (i.e. replacing fossil fuels) could represent a key source of competitive advantage for downstream initiatives and therefore motivates PMET Resources to continue its assessment of further value-added and downstream product initiatives at Shaakichiuwaanaan. Advancing PMET's Downstream Development Pathway On 14 June 2026, PMET announced the results of a Concept Study evaluating opportunities to convert spodumene concentrate produced at Shaakichiuwaanaan into higher-value lithium chemical products at site. The study identified Primero's ALi® atmospheric leach process as the preferred pathway for further evaluation and successfully produced 99.8% battery-grade lithium carbonate from Shaakichiuwaanaan spodumene concentrate at bench scale. A key conclusion of that work was that the combination of electric calcination and downstream lithium conversion could potentially leverage Québec's low-cost renewable hydroelectricity to create a more efficient and lower-carbon lithium supply chain while reducing logistics intensity and increasing value capture within Québec and Canada. The Mitsui-MWCC collaboration is intended to evaluate microwave-assisted electric calcination as a potential enabling technology within this broader downstream development strategy. PMET – MWCC – Mitsui & Co. MoU The MOU establishes a collaborative framework for the parties to advance technical evaluation, and potential future commercialization pathways for microwave calcination technology in the lithium industry. Under the terms of the MOU: PMET will supply spodumene raw material samples from Shaakichiuwaanaan for pilot plant testing, with 1.5 tonnes of 6.2% Li2O course spodumene concentrate already shipped to the Osaka pilot facility from its prior pilot DMS testwork programs. MWCC will lead the execution of pilot plant testing using its proprietary microwave calcination technology, and Mitsui will contribute to the evaluation of the pilot plant results from a project development perspective and where supported will facilitate discussions for potential future commercialization pathways. The collaboration is intended to assess whether microwave calcination could support PMET's broader value-added downstream products strategy, including the potential production of a lithium-enriched product at site. PMET believes Shaakichiuwaanaan is uniquely positioned to evaluate this opportunity given its scale, location in Québec, potential access to renewable hydroelectric power, and the potential to support a more integrated Western lithium chemicals supply chain. If successfully developed, electric calcination at or near the mine site could support the use of Québec's low-cost renewable power, reduce reliance on offshore conversion capacity, lower logistics intensity, and significantly reduce the amount of material transported from site by upgrading spodumene concentrate into a higher-value lower volume lithium product. The Company's concept study to date has identified meaningful potential benefits from on-site conversion, including reduced transport volumes, reduced logistics costs, reduced truck movements, and the potential to support a lower-carbon lithium chemical supply chain. The collaboration with Mitsui and MWCC is expected to focus specifically on the calcination stage as a potential enabling step in this broader downstream pathway. Following completion of pilot plant testing by MWCC, the parties expect to review the results and discuss whether to proceed with further evaluation and commercialization-oriented discussions relating to the potential application of microwave calcination technology to PMET's Shaakichiuwaanaan project. The parties may also coordinate efforts to evaluate potential government funding opportunities where aligned with critical minerals strategies and clean energy objectives. The MOU is non-binding and non-exclusive, except for customary provisions including confidentiality and related matters. Any future commercial arrangement, project development structure, technology deployment, financing or construction decision remains subject to successful testwork, further technical and economic evaluation, definitive agreements, required approvals, and customary development conditions.   About Mitsui & Co., Ltd. Mitsui & Co., Ltd. is a global trading and investment company with a diversified business portfolio and extensive experience in project development, commercialization, supply chain integration and industrial partnerships across natural resources, energy, infrastructure, mobility, chemicals and other sectors. About Microwave Chemical Co., Ltd. Microwave Chemical Co., Ltd. is a Japanese technology company focused on the development and commercialization of industrial microwave-based processes. Under the MOU, MWCC is expected to apply and validate its proprietary microwave calcination technology at pilot plant scale using spodumene samples supplied by PMET. About PMET Resources Inc. PMET Resources Inc. is a pegmatite critical mineral exploration and development company focused on advancing its district-scale 100%-owned Shaakichiuwaanaan Property located in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region of Quebec, Canada, which is accessible year-round by all-season road and proximal to regional hydro-power infrastructure. In late 2025, the Company announced a positive lithium-only Feasibility Study on the CV5 Pegmatite for the Shaakichiuwaanaan Property and declared a maiden Mineral Reserve of 84.3 Mt at 1.26% Li2O (Probable)1. The study outlines the potential for a competitive and globally significant high-grade lithium project targeting up to ~800 ktpa spodumene concentrate using a simple Dense Media Separation ("DMS") only process flowsheet. Further, the results highlight Shaakichiuwaanaan as a potential North American critical mineral powerhouse with significant opportunity for tantalum and caesium in addition to lithium. The Project hosts a Consolidated Mineral Resource2 totalling 108.0 Mt at 1.40% Li2O and 166 ppm Ta2O5 (Indicated) and 33.4 Mt at 1.33% Li2O and 155 ppm Ta2O5 (Inferred) and ranks as a top ten lithium pegmatite globally in size. Additionally, the Project hosts the world's largest pollucite-hosted caesium pegmatite Mineral Resource at the Rigel and Vega zones with 0.69 Mt at 4.40% Cs2O (Indicated), and 1.70 Mt at 2.40% Cs2O (Inferred). For further information, please contact us at info@pmet.ca or by calling +1 (604) 279-8709, or visit www.pmet.ca. Please also refer to the Company's continuous disclosure filings, available under its profile at www.sedarplus.ca and www.asx.com.au, for available exploration data. This news release has been approved by "KEN BRINSDEN" Kenneth Brinsden, President, CEO, & Managing Director Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information This news release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements, other than statements of present or historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions and accordingly, actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. You are hence cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as "strategy", "to evaluate", "enabling step", "potential", "additional", "future", "development", "longer term", "remains subject to", "growth", "opportunities", "further", "advance", "intended", "expect" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved.  Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements concerning microwave calcination and its potential,  the ability to implement PMET's longer term diversification strategy to reduce logistics intensity and enhance supply chain resilience, the ability to reduce transportation requirements and lower truck traffic, reduce reliance on offshore conversion capacity, and the creation of a higher-value lithium product in Québec, the success of any test, the ability to enter into definitive agreements and the ability to produce battery-grade lithium carbonate on site. Forward-looking statements are based upon certain assumptions and other important factors that, if untrue, could cause actual results to be materially different from future results expressed or implied by such statements. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. Key assumptions upon which the Company's forward-looking information is based include, without limitation, the ability to make discoveries, the potential of each of tantalum, lithium, caesium as a co-product, the ability to get approval for the Hydro-Québec power, the obtention of all required regulatory approvals, that proposed exploration work on the Property and the results therefrom will continue as expected, the accuracy of reserve and resource estimates, the classification of resources and the assumptions on which the reserve and resource estimates are based, long-term demand for lithium (spodumene), tantalum (tantalite), and caesium (pollucite)  supply, and that exploration and development results continue to support management's current plans for the Property's development. Forward-looking statements are also subject to risks and uncertainties facing the Company's business, any of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects. Readers should review the detailed risk discussion in the Company's most recent Annual Information Form filed on SEDAR+, for a fuller understanding of the risks and uncertainties that affect the Company's business and operations. Although the Company believes its expectations are based upon reasonable assumptions and has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate. If any of the risks or uncertainties mentioned above, which are not exhaustive, materialize, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained herein are made only as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by applicable law. The Company qualifies all of its forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements. Competent Person Statement (ASX Listing Rules) The information in this news release that relates to the Feasibility Study ("FS") for the Shaakichiuwaanaan Project, which was first reported by the Company in a market announcement titled "PMET Resources Delivers Positive CV5 Lithium-Only Feasibility Study for its Large-Scale Shaakichiuwaanaan Project" dated October 20, 2025 (Montreal time) is available on the Company's website at www.pmet.ca, on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the ASX website at www.asx.com.au. The production target from the Feasibility Study referred to in this news release was reported by the Company in accordance with ASX Listing Rule 5.16 on the date of the original announcement. The Company confirms that, as of the date of this news release, all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the production target in the original announcement continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Estimates in this release were first reported by the Company in accordance with ASX Listing Rules 5.8 and 5.9 in market announcements titled "World's Largest Pollucite-Hosted Caesium Pegmatite Deposit" dated July 20, 2025 (Montreal time) and "PMET Resources Delivers Positive CV5 Lithium-Only Feasibility Study for its Large-Scale Shaakichiuwaanaan Project" dated October 20, 2025 (Montreal time) and are available on the Company's website at www.pmet.ca, on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the ASX website at www.asx.com.au. The Company confirms that, as of the date of this news release, it is not aware of any new information or data verified by the competent person that materially affects the information included in the relevant announcement and that all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates in the relevant announcement continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company confirms that, as at the date of this announcement, the form and context in which the competent person's findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original market announcement. CONTACT: Olivier Caza-Lapointe, Head, Investor Relations, T: +1 (514) 913-5264, E: ocazalapointe@pmet.ca -- PRNewswire -- Source: PMET Resources Inc.

MOU to evaluate microwave calcination technology as a key enabling step in PMET’s downstream strategy, leveraging the potential use of Québec’s low-cost renewable hydroelectricity to support on-site lithium chemical processing MONTREAL, June 18  – Sydney, Australia Highlights PMET has entered into a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with Mitsui & Co., Ltd. (“Mitsui”) and Microwave Chemical […]

100 Pilot School Students In Johor Expected To Benefit From PSIL

JOHOR BAHRU, June 18 -- A total of 100 students from Sekolah Rintis Bangsa Johor (SRBJ) are expected to benefit from the exploration of a collaboration for the Program for Scientifically-Inspired Leadership (PSIL) between the Johor State Government and Harvard University, United States. State Education and Information Committee chairman Aznan Tamin said the programme, which was established in 2019 by the university, places emphasis on active learning, critical thinking, effective communication and leadership development. "The initial proposal for the implementation of PSIL with SRBJ in January 2027 will involve 100 selected students from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Tasek Utara and SMK Seri Kota Puteri 2," he said in a Facebook post. Aznan said the benefits of the programme are also extended to 40 SRBJ teachers through active learning pedagogy workshops to strengthen more interactive, creative and effective teaching methods in ensuring a conducive learning environment. Yesterday, the Regent of Johor Tunku Mahkota Ismail received a delegation from the university led by assistant director of Undergraduate Studies who is also a Lecturer in Molecular and Cellular Biology Dr Dominic Mao and assistant dean of Harvard College Dr Andrea Wright. Aznan said the meeting proved the Tunku Mahkota’s commitment and foresight in strengthening the state's education ecosystem through strategic networking with international institutions, thus opening up opportunities for Johor children to be exposed to a global learning culture. SRBJ emphasises the mastery of the English without marginalising the Malay language, strengthening science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills, personality development and student marketability, as well as implementing competency assessments equivalent to international-standard assessments and in line with the policies of the Ministry of Education. -- BERNAMA

JOHOR BAHRU, June 18 — A total of 100 students from Sekolah Rintis Bangsa Johor (SRBJ) are expected to benefit from the exploration of a collaboration for the Program for Scientifically-Inspired Leadership (PSIL) between the Johor State Government and Harvard University, United States. State Education and Information Committee chairman Aznan Tamin said the programme, which […]

2025-2026 PSA Tour Finals: Sivasangari Checks Into Semi-finals

KUALA LUMPUR, June 18 -- National women's squash player, S. Sivasangari created a sensation when she successfully advanced to the semi-finals of the 2025/2026 PSA Tour Finals after defeating Japanese representative Satomi Watanabe early this morning. In the action held in Centquatre-Paris, France, the 27-year-old player had no problem defeating her opponent in straight sets 11-9, 11-6, 11-9 in 35 minutes. Awaiting Sivasangari in the semi-finals scheduled to take place early Saturday morning Malaysian time is the tournament's top seed Amina Orfi from Egypt. Earlier, Amina confirmed her slot to the semi-finals after defeating Belgian representative, Tinne Gilis 11-1, 11-8, 6-11, 11-5 in 57 minutes. -- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, June 18 — National women’s squash player, S. Sivasangari created a sensation when she successfully advanced to the semi-finals of the 2025/2026 PSA Tour Finals after defeating Japanese representative Satomi Watanabe early this morning. In the action held in Centquatre-Paris, France, the 27-year-old player had no problem defeating her opponent in straight sets […]

World Cup 2026: Ronaldo Under Scrutiny as Portugal Held by DR Congo

HOUSTON, June 18 — Cristiano Ronaldo's performance came under the spotlight after Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their opening Group K match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Portugal captain, making a record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance alongside Argentina star Lionel Messi, endured a frustrating evening as he failed to convert two promising second-half opportunities that could have secured victory for his side. The 41-year-old striker missed a close-range chance that drifted wide of the target, leaving Portugal to settle for a point against a determined DR Congo side competing in their first World Cup finals in more than 50 years. Ronaldo's missed opportunities appeared to frustrate some teammates, including midfielder Bruno Fernandes, who was in a better position during one of the attacking moves that ended without a goal. Match statistics further highlighted Ronaldo's quiet display, with the veteran forward registering just 25 touches — the fewest among all Portuguese players who were on the pitch for more than 45 minutes. Despite growing debate over Ronaldo's effectiveness, Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez defended his captain, arguing that the striker was not provided with sufficient service by his teammates. "We need to make use of all the players on the field. The main striker needs to be near the six-yard box and we need to pass the ball to him," Martinez said after the match. The Portuguese coach also dismissed suggestions that Ronaldo should be dropped from the starting lineup, emphasizing the importance of his experience and goal-scoring pedigree. "It doesn't make sense to take out the top scorer in the history of international football when the team needs goals," Martinez said. "Cristiano's experience inside the penalty area and his ability to attract defenders create space for other players." Questions surrounding Ronaldo's role in the national team have persisted in recent years, with discussions centering on whether he should remain a regular starter or be used as an impact substitute. Nevertheless, the veteran forward's remarkable international record of 143 goals in 229 appearances continues to underline his status as one of football's most influential and accomplished players. Portugal will now look to improve in their next Group K fixture as they seek to strengthen their bid for a place in the knockout stages. -- MINUTESMY

HOUSTON, June 18 — Cristiano Ronaldo’s performance came under the spotlight after Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their opening Group K match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Portugal captain, making a record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance alongside Argentina star Lionel Messi, endured a frustrating evening as he […]

Significant progress made in US-India trade talks

HYDERABAD, JUNE 18 -- India says "significant progress" has been made in efforts to seal a long-awaited trade deal with the United States (US). This was among the issues discussed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump during their meeting on the sidelines of the Group of Seven (G7) Summit in Evian, France on Wednesday. "The leaders expressed satisfaction at the significant progress made in the negotiations towards an Interim Bilateral Trade Agreement and directed their respective officials to finalize an agreement that is balanced, mutually beneficial and of significant commercial value as soon as possible," said a statement from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs. According to the statement, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will visit India next week regarding the matter. Responding to a question about the ongoing trade talks, Trump described Modi as a "tough" negotiator. "We've been going through this process for some time and he's a very tough negotiator, one of the toughest," Trump said, pointing at the Indian leader. The US and India agreed on an interim trade deal in February this year which saw the US reduce tariffs to 18 percent. In 2025, Trump imposed a 25 percent tariff on India as well as an additional 25 percent penalty for buying oil from Russia. -- BERNAMA

HYDERABAD, JUNE 18 — India says “significant progress” has been made in efforts to seal a long-awaited trade deal with the United States (US). This was among the issues discussed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump during their meeting on the sidelines of the Group of Seven (G7) Summit in […]

UM rises to 56th place, its best position in QS World University Rankings

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 18 -- University of Malaya (UM) has achieved the highest position in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings (WUR) when it rose two places from 58th to 56th in the world. This achievement strengthens UM's position as the best university in Malaysia and places it in the top 3.7 percent of the world's best universities. Among Malaysian institutions, UM ranks first for the indicators of Academic Reputation, Employer Reputation, Employability Outcomes and Sustainability. Globally, the university ranks 56th, 61st, 184th and 166th for all four indicators, respectively. In addition, the university also achieved strong global rankings in International Research Networks (125th) and International Students (153rd). UM Vice-Chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Ir Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman described the university's best achievement in the QS WUR as a historic moment that makes the institution proud and significant to the country. "It is the result of a university that chooses discipline over complacency, implementation over rhetoric, and shared determination over mere conventional wisdom," he said. He said the success reflected the strength of an institution that is mission- and values-based, supported by the hard work and commitment of its academics, researchers, students, staff and leadership team. "It proves that when strategic vision is accompanied by clarity, coherence, courage and sustained action, Universiti Malaya not only participates in the global higher education landscape, but also shapes it," he said. Expressing appreciation to all UM staff, Noor Azuan said the achievement was the result of clear planning, institutional alignment, teamwork and consistent focus on critical sectors that shape the future. "It is embodied in the quality of our research and new areas of focus, the aspirations of our students, the dedication of our academics, the professionalism of our staff, as well as the relentless efforts of every faculty, centre, department and team that has carried the UM name with pride and excellence. According to Noor Azuan, UM is driven by continuous efforts in advanced research, digital transformation, sustainability, talent excellence, innovation, industry relevance and global partnerships. He said as the world becomes increasingly shaped by uncertainty, disruption and intense competition, institutions need to become more agile, resilient and bold in implementing reforms. Noor Azuan said the ranking was important because it reflected quality, trust and impact, and the university would continue to strive to achieve higher positions. However, he stressed that UM's broader mission is to lead the nation, elevate human dignity and help shape the future of the world. "We will continue to lead the national responsibility in shaping Malaysia's growth, strengthening the nation's resilience and producing the knowledge, talent and solutions needed by people and the world," he said. UM's overall score for the 2027 edition is 81.2 covering QS's key performance dimensions, namely Research and Discovery, Marketability and Productivity, Sustainability, Learning Experience and Global Engagement. The university recorded a score of 92.8 for Academic Reputation and 93.1 for Employer Reputation in recognition of its academic excellence as well as graduates who are highly employable and industry-ready. Meanwhile, scores of 93.4 for International Research Networks, 93.1 for International Students and 83.7 for International Faculty reflect its growing international profile and extensive global collaborations. The QS World University Rankings 2027 assessed 8,808 institutions worldwide, including 32 from Malaysia. Only 1,504 institutions made it into the final rankings across 106 locations. University of Malaya celebrates its 121st anniversary in 2026. Throughout its proud history, the university has produced many leaders and scholars who have made an impact at the national and global levels. -- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 18 — University of Malaya (UM) has achieved the highest position in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings (WUR) when it rose two places from 58th to 56th in the world. This achievement strengthens UM’s position as the best university in Malaysia and places it in the top 3.7 percent of […]