Day: June 18, 2026

Ops Daya: 1,638 more companies detected involved in submitting false claims – MACC

"There is no time limit set for the investigation process. We do not need to rush and we are not chasing time. We (MACC) want to complete the investigation based on the cooperation we receive from SOCSO, not only at the headquarters but in the states. "So what that means is that when we get good cooperation and when the investigation is completed, we will begin prosecution," he said at a special press conference here today. He said Ops Daya, which was launched on June 9, was an integrated operation between MACC and SOCSO to investigate irregularities in Daya Kerjaya 2.0 incentive claims. Abdul Halim said 63 investigation papers had been opened, with 97 individuals comprising 86 company owners and 11 agents arrested as of last Tuesday to assist in the investigation. According to him, of the total, 77 individuals were remanded and his party recorded statements from 577 individuals. "A total of 36 company bank accounts worth RM463,076 were frozen and movable property such as gold, cash and various valuables estimated at RM74,198 were seized in the operation," he said. Abdul Halim said the modus operandi identified was that individual data was misused for incentive claims, one-off consolation prizes were given to employees even though full claims had been made, and information about people with disabilities (OKU) was used for payments to other parties. He said the investigation found that the irregularities occurred between 2024 and 2025 when several companies were believed to have submitted false claims by declaring employees who were not working at their companies for the purpose of obtaining government employment incentives. SOCSO Chief Executive Officer Datuk Seri Dr Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed said that as of yesterday, his office had managed to recover RM1.26 million from employers who admitted to committing fraud in the Daya Kerjaya 2.0 Programme application. On June 9, MACC arrested 73 individuals, consisting of 48 men and 25 women aged between 20 and 70, who acted as agents and company owners throughout the country, except Perlis, on suspicion of being involved in a syndicate forging Daya Kerjaya 2.0 incentive claims involving a value of approximately RM9 million. Initial investigations found that all the suspects were suspected of committing the act between 2024 and 2025, by making false claims involving government employment assistance of RM1,500 per month for six months for each worker employed by private sector employers and government-linked companies (GLCs). -- BERNAMA

PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has detected another 1,638 companies suspected of being involved in submitting false claims to obtain incentives under the Social Security Organisation’s (SOCSO) Daya Kerjaya 2.0 Programme, involving an estimated loss of RM45 million. MACC Chief Commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman said the investigation is currently focused on 143 […]

Johor State Election: PH To Announce Candidates On Monday – Dr Zaliha

JOHOR BAHRU, June 18 -- Pakatan Harapan (PH) is expected to announce the list of candidates contesting in the Johor state election this Monday, said Johor PKR chairman Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa. Zaliha, who is also PKR vice president, said the announcement was expected to be made at a ceremony involving the party's top leadership, including PH chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. "The announcement of candidates has been agreed upon by the state and central PH. God willing, we will hold it in the north of Johor, possibly in Bukit Gambir, Tangkak," she said in an interview with Bernama. bootstrap slideshow Dr Zaliha said the selection of the location in the northern part of Johor was to further fuel the wave of support from the people which was seen to be increasing after several series of programmes in the northern zone, including in Bukit Naning, which showed very encouraging responses. Elaborating further, she said the selection of candidates involved views from the branch level to ensure that those chosen truly understood the needs of the local community and had a good service record. “We also include elements of professionals, young people, women and racial diversity so that there is balance in the team of candidates that are presented,” she said. bootstrap slideshow Dr Zaliha said that apart from representing various community groups, the candidates chosen also need to have the ability to contribute to PH’s larger goals in this election. She said PH did not enter the election arena simply to increase the number of seats it had won previously, but rather with the target of forming a state government. PH will contest in all 56 State Legislative Assembly seats with PKR fielding candidates in 20 seats, DAP (17) and Amanah (19). The Johor state election is set for July 11, with nominations on June 27 and early voting on July 7. -- BERNAMA

JOHOR BAHRU, June 18 — Pakatan Harapan (PH) is expected to announce the list of candidates contesting in the Johor state election this Monday, said Johor PKR chairman Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa. Zaliha, who is also PKR vice president, said the announcement was expected to be made at a ceremony involving the party’s top […]

The Meru Eco Tourism Week 4th Edition “Tourism as a Force for Good: Regenerating Bali Together”

DENPASAR, Indonesia, June 18 -- Eco Tourism Bali, together with The Meru Sanur, the Wonderful Indonesia Sustainable Tourism Industry Forum (WI-STIF), and ACT! Project, in collaboration with Katadata and Katadata Green as official media partners, officially launched The Meru Eco Tourism Week 4th Edition at the Bali Beach Convention Center, Sanur, on May 30–31, 2026.  Carrying the theme "Tourism as a Force for Good: Regenerating Bali Together," the event serves as a collaborative platform that brings together tourism industry stakeholders, government representatives, academics, communities, media, and sustainable solution providers to collectively drive the transformation of Bali's tourism sector toward more responsible and regenerative practices. In its fourth year, Eco Tourism Bali places a stronger emphasis on nature-positive tourism, an approach that goes beyond reducing negative impacts by actively contributing to environmental regeneration, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem sustainability. The event also coincides with the celebration of the International Day for Biological Diversity, observed annually on May 22, serving as an important reminder that the future of tourism is deeply connected to the health of nature and the environment. Amid Bali's growing environmental challenges, including waste management issues, climate change, ecosystem pressures, and threats to local culture, The Meru Eco Tourism Week 4th Edition aims to demonstrate that tourism should not merely benefit from nature, culture, and local communities, but also take responsibility for protecting, restoring, and regenerating the ecosystems that form the foundation of the industry. This regenerative approach is reflected across various aspects of tourism and hospitality, including: Business policies and governance Responsible hospitality operations Resource and waste management Biodiversity protection Sustainable sourcing practices Long-term commitments to environmental and community well-being Looking ahead, nature-positive and regenerative tourism will no longer be viewed as added value, but rather as an emerging necessity and new standard for the global tourism and hospitality industry. Over the course of two days, the event features a range of strategic programs, including: Press Conference with national and international media Panel Discussions, Presentations, and Fireside Chats featuring tourism and hospitality leaders, policymakers, sustainability practitioners, and environmental experts Eco Business Pitch sessions showcasing sustainable solution providers for the hospitality sector More than 40 exhibitors presenting innovative sustainability solutions for tourism and hospitality businesses The Eco Climate Badge Award 2025/2026, recognizing verified hotels and restaurants that have demonstrated excellence in sustainability and climate-friendly operations Cross-sector Networking Sessions designed to strengthen collaboration and accelerate implementation The Meru Eco Tourism Week 4th Edition is also honored to welcome Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, Minister of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia, alongside support from various national and international stakeholders committed to strengthening Bali's position as a leading regenerative tourism destination. "We hope to see more tourism businesses embrace ESG principles and view sustainability as a long-term strategic investment. The government continues to implement concrete measures to promote sustainable tourism development across various destinations, including environmentally friendly infrastructure projects, destination revitalization programs, environmental restoration initiatives, and carrying-capacity assessments. We believe this forum can strengthen collective awareness of the importance of sustainable tourism and encourage all stakeholders to play a more active role in building cross-sector collaboration." — Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, Minister of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia "We highly appreciate Eco Tourism Bali's consistent commitment to organizing Eco Tourism Week every year. Within the Ministry's long-term and medium-term development plans, Indonesia has identified ten priority tourism destinations and three regenerative tourism destinations, one of which is Bali. Strengthening sustainable tourism remains one of the key priorities of the Ministry of Tourism. Therefore, the government continues to develop policies, mechanisms, and support systems that encourage the practical implementation of sustainability across the tourism sector. We are confident that tourism businesses that adopt sustainability principles will increasingly become the preferred choice of global travelers." — Rizki Handayani Mustafa, Deputy for Industry and Investment, Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia "Tourism can no longer operate through extractive models. The industry must evolve into a positive force that actively contributes to protecting and regenerating nature and surrounding ecosystems." — Rahmi Fajar Harini, Co-Founder, Eco Tourism Bali "Sustainability is no longer an optional addition within the tourism industry. It has become a fundamental pillar in maintaining Bali's competitiveness and securing its future as a world-class destination." — Suzy Hutomo, Co-Founder, Eco Tourism Bali "Hosting The Meru Eco Tourism Week reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting and advancing sustainable and regenerative tourism in Bali. This commitment is reinforced through our continued collaboration with Eco Tourism Bali, a partner that shares our vision of a tourism industry that not only generates economic value, but also protects, restores, and enriches the natural environment, cultural heritage, and local communities that make Bali unique. Located within The Sanur Special Economic Zone for Health & Wellness, this integrated tourism ecosystem demonstrates how innovative healthcare facilities, biodiversity, holistic wellness, community well-being, cultural preservation, and economic growth can coexist to create long-term value while supporting the future of Indonesia's tourism industry through sustainable and responsible development. Through The Meru Eco Tourism Week, we believe this event can inspire meaningful ideas and accelerate collective action toward a more sustainable and regenerative future for Bali and Indonesia." — Ed Brea, General Manager, The Meru Sanur Through this platform, Eco Tourism Bali hopes that The Meru Eco Tourism Week 4th Edition will serve not only as a forum for discussion, but also as a catalyst for meaningful collaboration capable of delivering long-term solutions and impact for Bali's future. United by a shared vision, Eco Tourism Bali and The Meru Sanur believe that Bali's future tourism success depends on growing alongside nature, rather than at its expense. Through collective action across industries, Bali can advance a tourism model that not only drives economic growth, but also preserves the environment, empowers local communities, and safeguards its rich cultural heritage for generations to come. About The Meru Sanur: Nestled along the tranquil coastline of Sanur, Bali, The Meru Sanur is an all-suite beachfront resort thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly with the lush tropical gardens, Indonesian traditions, and authentic Balinese culture. Complementing the experience, the resort offers diverse gastronomic journeys ranging from authentic Indonesian specialties to international cuisine, alongside wellness and spa offerings rooted in Balinese healing traditions and local wisdom. The resort also features a non-digital kids club, a state-of-the-art fitness center, two expansive swimming pools, and world-class wedding and event venues. As part of InJourney Hospitality's luxury collection, The Meru Sanur is seamlessly connected to the iconic Bali Beach Hotel The Heritage Collection, and Bali Beach Convention Center, all situated within 'The Sanur', Indonesia's first Special Economic Zone dedicated to health and wellness, making it one of the largest premier health and wellness destinations in South East Asia. For more information, visit website www.themerusanur.com About Eco Tourism Bali Eco Tourism Bali is a platform committed to advancing sustainable and regenerative tourism practices in Bali through cross-sector collaboration, sustainability verification, capacity-building initiatives, and environmental and social programs such as the Eco Climate Badge and the Regenerative Bali Program. For more information, visit website www.ecotourismbali.com -- PRNewswire -- Source: The Meru Sanur

DENPASAR, Indonesia, June 18 — Eco Tourism Bali, together with The Meru Sanur, the Wonderful Indonesia Sustainable Tourism Industry Forum (WI-STIF), and ACT! Project, in collaboration with Katadata and Katadata Green as official media partners, officially launched The Meru Eco Tourism Week 4th Edition at the Bali Beach Convention Center, Sanur, on May 30–31, 2026. Carrying the theme “Tourism as a Force […]

RMAF plans to replace C-130 aircraft in line with operational needs

SUBANG, JUNE 18 -- The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) plans to replace its existing C-130 Hercules transport aircraft in line with increasing operational needs and the aging of the asset. Air Force Chief General Tan Sri Muhamad Norazlan Aris said the planning was given special attention given that the earliest C-130 Hercules aircraft received by the RMAF is now 50 years old, while the youngest aircraft is 31 years old. Beliau berkata faktor peningkatan kos penyelenggaraan pesawat lama dan kelebihan teknologi serta kapasiti beban pada pesawat generasi baharu menjadikan penggantian C-130 satu keperluan, walaupun keupayaan model sedia ada itu telah terbukti. "Tugas TUDM akan menjadi lebih besar dan lebih mencabar, justeru kita memerlukan aset yang berkeupayaan untuk melaksanakan tugas tersebut,” katanya kepada pemberita ketika Perbarisan Hari Ulang Tahun Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia Ke-68, di sini, hari ini. TUDM ketika ini memiliki 10 pesawat C-130 Hercules yang terdiri daripada beberapa varian. Muhamad Norazlan berkata TUDM sedang menjalankan kajian bagi penggantian pesawat tempur pelbagai peranan dan penambahan pesawat tempur ringan (LCA) menjelang 2035 kerana aset sedia ada sekarang ini dijangka berdepan isu keusangan dan sokongan penyelenggaraan pada masa tersebut. Selain itu, katanya, TUDM belum membuat ketetapan sama ada pesawat generasi 4.5, kelima atau keenam yang akan dipilih kerana perolehan aset baharu perlu mengambil kira Dasar Pertahanan Negara yang bersifat defensif. Sementara itu, Muhamad Norazlan memaklumkan kesiapsiagaan TUDM bagi menerima pesawat tempur ringan FA-50 kini berada pada tahap 90 peratus dengan kemudahan infrastruktur di Pangkalan Udara Kuantan dijangka siap sepenuhnya menjelang Oktober ini. Katanya, enam juruterbang TUDM kini sedang mengikuti latihan penerbangan pesawat FA-50 di Gwangju Airbase, Korea Selatan bersama kumpulan sokongan teknikal dengan dua daripada mereka dijadualkan tamat latihan pada Oktober manakala baki empat lagi pada Disember ini. “Apabila mereka balik, sudah boleh mula terbang, kita hanya perlu menubuhkan skuadron dan menyediakan prosedur operasi standard (SOP) mengikut keperluan TUDM," katanya. Muhamad Norazlan berkata kehadiran FA-50 akan membolehkan TUDM melatih lebih ramai juruterbang secara tempatan sebelum mereka beralih kepada pesawat yang lebih canggih. Kementerian Pertahanan memeterai kontrak dengan Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) pada 2023 bagi pemerolehan 18 buah pesawat FA-50 dengan dua pesawat pertama dijangka diterima oleh pada Oktober ini, manakala selebihnya secara berperingkat. -- BERNAMA

SUBANG, JUNE 18 — The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) plans to replace its existing C-130 Hercules transport aircraft in line with increasing operational needs and the aging of the asset. Air Force Chief General Tan Sri Muhamad Norazlan Aris said the planning was given special attention given that the earliest C-130 Hercules aircraft received […]

Asia-Pacific Telecom Leaders Gather in Singapore for the Twimbit Telecom Summit & Awards 2026

MUMBAI, India and SINGAPORE, June 18 -- The Twimbit Telecom Summit & Awards 2026 recently concluded at the iconic Capitol Theatre Singapore, bringing together senior telecom operators, technology leaders, policymakers, investors, and ecosystem partners from across Asia-Pacific for a day dedicated to telecom reinvention in the AI era.      Hosted by Twimbit, the global research and advisory firm, the summit explored how telecom operators are evolving beyond connectivity into AI-native digital platforms powering enterprise transformation, customer intelligence, sovereign infrastructure, and next-generation digital economies. This year's summit centered around themes including AI-native operations, enterprise AI monetisation, digital sovereignty, infrastructure transformation, customer experience reinvention, and leadership transformation. Across keynote sessions, executive panels, and roundtable discussions, industry leaders discussed the structural shifts reshaping the telecom sector and the operating models required for the next decade. The summit featured leadership perspectives from some of the industry's most influential voices, including Manoj Kohli, Vikram Sinha, Vikram Rao, Juhi McClelland, Ulf Ewaldsson, Rajesh Chandiramani, Anna Yip and Wong Soon Nam. The evening concluded with the Twimbit Telecom Awards 2026, recognising operators, leaders, and innovators driving transformation across the telecom ecosystem. Built on Twimbit's proprietary research frameworks and guided by an independent panel of industry judges, the awards celebrate excellence across AI transformation, customer experience, enterprise business, ESG, network modernization, financial performance, and digital infrastructure. Among the marquee winners this year were Singtel, Bharti Airtel, Reliance Jio, Telkomsel, Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, Globe, Taiwan Mobile, and Digital Realty. Manoj Kohli received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contribution to the telecom industry. This year's awards also partnered with the Goh Chok Tong Enable Fund (GCTEF). Through contributions and pledges made during the evening, the initiative raised over SGD 15,000 to support opportunities, aspirations, and inclusion for persons with disabilities in Singapore. "The telecom industry is entering one of the most defining phases in its history," said Manoj Menon, Founder & CEO of Twimbit. "What we witnessed at the summit was not just a conversation about technology, but a conversation about leadership, reinvention, and the future role telecom will play in shaping digital economies." The Twimbit Telecom Summit & Awards 2026 was supported by founding partner F5 and gold sponsor Comviva. -- PRNewswire  -- Source: Twimbit 

MUMBAI, India and SINGAPORE, June 18 — The Twimbit Telecom Summit & Awards 2026 recently concluded at the iconic Capitol Theatre Singapore, bringing together senior telecom operators, technology leaders, policymakers, investors, and ecosystem partners from across Asia-Pacific for a day dedicated to telecom reinvention in the AI era. Hosted by Twimbit, the global research and advisory […]

Malaysia, Russia Explore Strategic Cooperation to Strengthen Long-Term Energy and Oil Supply

KUALA LUMPUR, June 18 – Malaysia and Russia have agreed to explore stronger strategic cooperation, particularly in the energy sector, following discussions between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Russian President Vladimir Putin. In a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, both leaders discussed various aspects of bilateral cooperation, including opportunities to enhance collaboration in the energy industry, which is considered a strategic area for both nations. The leaders also exchanged views on expanding economic ties and welcomed Russia’s commitment to long-term cooperation in ensuring stable energy and oil supplies. Beyond energy, Malaysia and Russia explored potential partnerships in emerging technologies, cybersecurity, digital development, artificial intelligence (AI), modern agriculture, and the pharmaceutical sector. The discussions further covered initiatives to facilitate the movement of people through visa liberalisation, as well as mechanisms to expand bilateral trade and investment using local currencies, namely the Malaysian Ringgit and Russian Ruble. The MADANI Government reaffirmed its commitment to taking strategic and proactive measures to strengthen Malaysia’s energy security through international cooperation, ensuring the stability, continuity, and resilience of energy supplies for the benefit of the people and the nation’s economic prosperity. -- MINUTESMY -- Source: Parti Keadilan Rakyat 

KUALA LUMPUR, June 18 – Malaysia and Russia have agreed to explore stronger strategic cooperation, particularly in the energy sector, following discussions between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Russian President Vladimir Putin. In a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, both leaders discussed various aspects of bilateral cooperation, including opportunities to enhance […]

HAWANA 2026 will be a catalyst for Penang’s tourism and creative economy – Exco

GEORGE TOWN, JUNE 18 -- The organisation of the National Journalists' Day Summit (HAWANA) 2026 in Penang will catalyse the state's tourism sector and creative economy through large-scale media exposure that can strengthen the Penang brand at the regional level. The state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman, Wong Hon Wai, said that the selection of Penang as the host of HAWANA for the first time was a recognition of the state's ability as the country's main tourism destination and a location for organising international-class events. He said the prestigious event, which brought together more than 1,000 media practitioners and delegates from Malaysia and ASEAN countries, opened up a wide opportunity to introduce the uniqueness of Penang's cultural heritage, gastronomic diversity, tourism products and the strength of the creative economy sector. "Through the presence of media from across the country and the ASEAN region, Penang will receive extensive and high-value exposure, thus strengthening its position as one of the major tourist destinations in Malaysia. "This is also expected to have a direct and indirect economic impact on the state because the presence of thousands of visitors and media personnel will increase demand for hotel services, food and beverage, transportation, shopping centres and local tourist attractions," he told Bernama, today. Commenting on the state's level of preparedness as the host, Wong said that initial feedback from tourism industry players saw hotel room booking rates showing an encouraging increase in conjunction with HAWANA 2026. He said that Seberang Perai, which was chosen as the main location for the program, has sufficient accommodation capacity to accommodate participants and visitors throughout the three-day event from June 19 to 21. Meanwhile, he described the media as an important strategic partner in efforts to promote tourist destinations and strengthen the development of a state's creative economy. Wong said the media helps introduce destinations, promote tourism products and build visitor confidence through the delivery of accurate and effective information. "For the creative economy sector, the media helps highlight local talent, artwork, cultural events and creative initiatives that can increase the economic value and identity of a state. "Therefore, the state government appreciates the contribution of the media as a development partner that helps drive the growth of tourism, the creative economy and the positive image of Penang at the national and international levels," he said. Wong is confident that organizing HAWANA 2026 will leave a positive impact not only on the media industry, but also on the entire tourism ecosystem and creative economy of Penang. The HAWANA 2026 Summit, which will be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on June 20 at the PICCA Convention Centre @ Butterworth Arena, is expected to be attended by approximately 1,000 media practitioners from home and abroad. Taking up the theme "Media with Integrity, Core Credibility", HAWANA 2026, organised by the Ministry of Communications with the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) as the implementing agency, is a platform to celebrate the contributions, perseverance and professionalism of media practitioners in this country. In conjunction with HAWANA 2026, the RIUH Pi HAWANA Carnival will also be held at the PICCA Convention Centre @ Butterworth Arena which will last for three days starting tomorrow. The carnival is expected to attract approximately 30,000 visitors and bring together more than 24 local creative product brands and 20 food and beverage vendors, in addition to interactive workshops that give the public the opportunity to explore various creative activities. Apart from that, visitors will also be entertained by 16 stage performances featuring local artists such as Exists, Bunkface, Masdo, Sakura Band, Budak Nakal Hujung Simpang and Chelsea Ng with free admission. -- BERNAMA

GEORGE TOWN, JUNE 18 — The organisation of the National Journalists’ Day Summit (HAWANA) 2026 in Penang will catalyse the state’s tourism sector and creative economy through large-scale media exposure that can strengthen the Penang brand at the regional level. The state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman, Wong Hon Wai, said that the selection […]

Malaysia supports Turkey’s aspiration to become ASEAN Dialogue Partner

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 18 -- Malaysia supports Turkey's aspirations to become an ASEAN Dialogue Partner. In a statement, the Malaysian Embassy in Ankara announced that the matter was conveyed by the Malaysian Ambassador to Turkey, Adlan Mohd Shaffieq, when he officially presented his Letters of Credence to the President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the Presidential Complex on June 17. The Ambassador stressed that Turkey is emerging as an increasingly important partner for Southeast Asia through its growing economic involvement, strategic outlook and increasingly strong people-to-people ties with ASEAN member countries. He also conveyed greetings and congratulations from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim and Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to Erdogan. The Ambassador also stressed Malaysia's commitment to continue strengthening the long-standing friendship and strategic partnership with Turkey, which continues to grow through regular high-level engagements and closer cooperation, particularly in the fields of education, defence and the halal industry. "Malaysia and Turkey share a special relationship built on trust, respect and shared aspirations for peace, prosperity and development. "Based on the strong personal relationship between President Erdogan and Prime Minister Anwar, we should leverage their shared vision to deepen cooperation in all sectors," he said. Erdogan, when welcoming the Ambassador, also expressed confidence that trade relations between the two countries would continue to grow and reach the target of US$10 billion.

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 18 — Malaysia supports Turkey’s aspirations to become an ASEAN Dialogue Partner. In a statement, the Malaysian Embassy in Ankara announced that the matter was conveyed by the Malaysian Ambassador to Turkey, Adlan Mohd Shaffieq, when he officially presented his Letters of Credence to the President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan at […]