Day: June 21, 2026

Over 13,000 employers in Johor joined HRD Corp ecosystem last year

JOHOR BAHRU: A total of 13,425 employers in Johor have registered under the Human Resources Development Corporation Berhad (HRD Corp) ecosystem as of last year, thus providing direct training benefits to 479,905 workers in the state. Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said the high commitment of the industrial sector also saw levy collections reaching RM208.21 million recorded, with RM183.96 million being channelled back to employers for the purpose of implementing employee training. He said that RM191.5 million in financial assistance had also been channeled by the agency under the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA), which successfully trained 232,072 people in Johor to strengthen the competitiveness of the local workforce. "However, for me, the real success is not the amount of money spent but the long-term benefits received by the people of Johor. KESUMA through its agency is also always committed to helping gig workers improve their skills and strengthen their career future," he said. He said this when speaking at the HRD Corp "Pocket Talk" Tour Series - From Policy to People at the Johor state level at Starhill Golf & Country Club, Kempas here yesterday. Ramanan said strengthening local talent was critical to supporting various strategic investments that were rapidly growing in the state, especially in meeting the needs of highly skilled manpower for the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). The "Pocket Talk" Tour Series is a field initiative by KESUMA and HRD Corp to ensure that all information, training assistance funds and upskilling opportunities from the government can be delivered directly to the community at the grassroots level. -- BERNAMA

JOHOR BAHRU: A total of 13,425 employers in Johor have registered under the Human Resources Development Corporation Berhad (HRD Corp) ecosystem as of last year, thus providing direct training benefits to 479,905 workers in the state. Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said the high commitment of the industrial sector also saw levy collections […]

Bersama to Announce Johor State Election Candidates This Friday

-- BERNAMA

KOTA BHARU, JUNE 21 — Parti Bersama Malaysia (Bersama) akan mengumumkan barisan calon yang bertanding pada Pilihan Raya Negeri (PRN) Johor di Johor Bahru, Jumaat ini. Pemimpin parti itu, Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli berkata setakat ini, pihaknya sudah menyelesaikan tapisan senarai calon, namun tidak menyatakan jumlah kerusi yang akan ditandingi parti itu. “Saya baru buka […]

Iran to send delegation to Switzerland to demand US implement agreed commitments

ISTANBUL, JUNE 21 -- An Iranian delegation will leave for Switzerland to follow up and demand implementation of commitments by the other side, the Iranian Foreign Ministry said on Saturday, Anadolu Agency reported, citing Iran's Fars news agency. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said: "In Switzerland, we are ready to press for the implementation of the commitments of the parties on the other side and to determine how they intend to fulfill those obligations." "If some of the commitments on the other side are not implemented, this entire understanding will face difficulties," Baghaei said, adding that Washington must take appropriate steps "as soon as possible to avoid this agreement being undermined." "We did not sign this commitment so that it would not be implemented; our approach is commitment met with commitment," he stressed. The Iranian official also warned that Tehran would respond "with necessary measures" if "the other side refuses to fulfill their commitments". The ISNA news agency, citing his statement, reported that the Iranian delegation would depart "within a few hours". The spokesperson said the trip "does not mean the start of the second phase of negotiations; rather it aims to follow up on the implementation of the commitments that have been agreed." "The commitment is very clear, and the first clause of the memorandum of understanding covers the most important part of the mutual commitment between the two sides – which is to end the war on all fronts, including in Lebanon," Baghaei said. Meanwhile, the Lebanese National News Agency (NNA) reported that the death toll from Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon since early Saturday morning has risen to at least 28 people, despite the enforcement of the ceasefire and the US-Iran agreement. The country's Health Ministry announced that the number of casualties from Israeli airstrikes since Friday has risen to 83 people, while more than 140 others have been injured. Based on data from Lebanese authorities, Israeli military attacks on Lebanon since March 2 have killed at least 4,057 people, injured more than 12,000 others, and displaced more than one million people. The latest attack came after Israel's Channel 12 on Friday quoted an unnamed official as confirming that a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah had come into effect at 4pm local time (1300 GMT). A senior US official also confirmed the implementation of the ceasefire in a statement to Anadolu. On Wednesday night, Washington and Tehran electronically signed a 14-point agreement to end the war, the text of which was published by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. -- BERNAMA-ANADOLU

ISTANBUL, JUNE 21 — An Iranian delegation will leave for Switzerland to follow up and demand implementation of commitments by the other side, the Iranian Foreign Ministry said on Saturday, Anadolu Agency reported, citing Iran’s Fars news agency. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said: “In Switzerland, we are ready to press for the implementation of […]

Sivasangari emerges as runner-up in the 2025-2026 PSA Tour Finals

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 21 -- National squash player S. Sivasangari failed to win the 2025-2026 PSA Tour Finals title after losing 1-3 to world number one Hania El Hammamy from Egypt in the women's final in Paris, yesterday. Despite the defeat, the world number five player closed the campaign by emerging as the runner-up, thus presenting Malaysia with its best achievement in the prestigious tournament since national squash legend Nicol Ann David reached the final in 2012. Sivasangari, who was seeded fourth in the tournament, lost 6-11 in the first game before coming back to win the second game 11-10 over the second seed. However, El Hammamy regained control of the match and won the next two games 11-8, 11-8 to confirm the championship. Sivasangari booked her ticket to the final after pulling off a huge upset by defeating world number two and top seed from Egypt, Amina Orfi, 8-11, 11-10, 11-8, 11-10 in a semi-final that lasted 74 minutes. The runner-up's achievement continues his excellent performance throughout 2026 after also winning the Grasshopper Cup in Zurich last April. -- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 21 — National squash player S. Sivasangari failed to win the 2025-2026 PSA Tour Finals title after losing 1-3 to world number one Hania El Hammamy from Egypt in the women’s final in Paris, yesterday. Despite the defeat, the world number five player closed the campaign by emerging as the runner-up, thus […]

Datuk R. Ramanan Commends KEADILAN Kempas Machinery Ahead of Johor Polls

JOHOR BAHRU, June 21 — Deputy Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister R. Ramanan has expressed confidence in the readiness of Parti Keadilan Rakyat (KEADILAN) machinery in Kempas as preparations intensify for the upcoming Johor State Election. During a visit to the KEADILAN Main Operations Room for the Kempas state constituency, Ramanan was briefed on the party's strategic planning, campaign coordination and ongoing preparations leading up to polling day. The visit provided an opportunity for the party leader to assess the preparedness of grassroots members and election workers tasked with mobilising support in the constituency during the crucial weeks ahead. Ramanan said the briefing highlighted the commitment and dedication demonstrated by the KEADILAN Kempas team in ensuring the party is well-positioned for the state election campaign. He also took the opportunity to exchange views and share ideas with grassroots members on strengthening campaign efforts and ensuring that initiatives undertaken by the party effectively address the needs and aspirations of the people. "I would like to congratulate the entire KEADILAN Kempas team for the commitment, spirit and determination they have shown. This sense of unity is our strength as we continue the struggle to bring about positive change and champion the interests of the people," he said. Ramanan stressed the importance of teamwork and solidarity in advancing the Reformasi agenda and securing the people's mandate in Johor. He expressed confidence that through hard work, unity and unwavering commitment, KEADILAN and its allies would be able to achieve success in the state election. "We move as one team, with one heart and one determination to ensure the Reformasi agenda continues to be strengthened and receives the support of the people of Johor," he said. The Johor State Election is expected to see intense competition among political parties as campaign activities gather momentum across the state. -- MINUTESMY

JOHOR BAHRU, June 21 — Deputy Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister R. Ramanan has expressed confidence in the readiness of Parti Keadilan Rakyat (KEADILAN) machinery in Kempas as preparations intensify for the upcoming Johor State Election. During a visit to the KEADILAN Main Operations Room for the Kempas state constituency, Ramanan was briefed on the […]

Leadership Is About Service, Not Position or Pride – PM Anwar Ibrahim

SEREMBAN, June 21 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed that leadership is a responsibility to serve the people sincerely, stressing that the nation's real challenges stem from corruption, abuse of power, and those who seek to sow division among Malaysians. Speaking after attending the Rimbunan Hati Dinner Ceremony organised by the Five Generations Organization (PLG) Malaysia in Seremban on Saturday night, Anwar reflected on his recent overseas engagements and his continued commitment to safeguarding the country's future. The Prime Minister said he had recently concluded official visits to Russia and Turkmenistan, where he held a series of important meetings aimed at strengthening Malaysia's long-term interests, particularly in the energy sector amid growing global uncertainties and challenges. Despite returning to Malaysia at approximately 3.30 am, Anwar immediately resumed his official duties in Penang before travelling to Seremban for the event. "Exhaustion is nothing compared to the trust placed upon us to ensure our children inherit a peaceful, stable country and a better future," he said. Anwar also underscored the importance of integrity and public service, noting that leadership should never be driven by status or personal pride. "I believe leadership is not about position or pride. It is a responsibility to serve sincerely, care for the interests of the people, and do the best for the sake of our beloved country," he said. Addressing issues of national unity, the Prime Minister stressed that Malaysia's true challenges are not differences in race or religion but corruption, moral decay, and efforts to incite hatred and racism. He said Malaysia's greatest strength lies in the ability of its diverse communities to live in harmony, respect one another, and work together toward a shared future. Anwar also expressed his appreciation to long-time friends and supporters who have remained steadfast throughout his political journey, thanking them for their friendship, prayers, and unwavering support. He expressed hope that the spirit of ukhuwah, or brotherhood, would continue to strengthen collective efforts in serving religion, the nation, and Malaysia. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

SEREMBAN, June 21 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed that leadership is a responsibility to serve the people sincerely, stressing that the nation’s real challenges stem from corruption, abuse of power, and those who seek to sow division among Malaysians. Speaking after attending the Rimbunan Hati Dinner Ceremony organised by the Five Generations Organization […]

Pakatan Harapan to Announce Johor State Election Candidates at Bukit Gambir Rally

JOHOR BAHRU, June 21 — Pakatan Harapan (PH) will officially unveil its candidates for the 16th Johor State Election (PRN Johor) at a major gathering scheduled to take place at Bukit Gambir Extreme Park tomorrow evening. The candidate announcement ceremony will be held on June 22 at 7.30 pm and is expected to draw supporters from across the state as PH kicks off its campaign for the upcoming election. The event will feature several top coalition leaders, including Anwar Ibrahim, Mohamad Sabu, and Loke Siew Fook. Organisers have called on Johoreans to attend the event and witness what they describe as a historic moment for the state, while demonstrating support for the coalition's vision of moving Johor forward. Held under the theme “Johor Ke Depan” (Johor Forward), the gathering is expected to outline PH’s election agenda and rally public support ahead of polling day. The coalition is campaigning under the slogans “Undi Harapan” (Vote for Hope) and “Tekad MADANI, Harapan Rakyat” (MADANI Determination, People's Hope) as it seeks a strong mandate from voters in the state election. -- MINUTESMY

JOHOR BAHRU, June 21 — Pakatan Harapan (PH) will officially unveil its candidates for the 16th Johor State Election (PRN Johor) at a major gathering scheduled to take place at Bukit Gambir Extreme Park tomorrow evening. The candidate announcement ceremony will be held on June 22 at 7.30 pm and is expected to draw supporters […]