Day: July 1, 2026

Penang Begins Enforcing Community Service Order For Littering Offences

BUKIT MERTAJAM, July 1 -- Penang has begun enforcing Community Service Order (CSO) against individuals caught littering, as part of efforts to strengthen public cleanliness across the state. State Local Government and Town and Country Planning Committee chairman H’ng Mooi Lye said the enforcement took effect today under the Local Government (Amendment) Act 2025  and the Street, Drainage and Building (Amendment) Act 2025, which were gazetted on Nov 12 last year. Under the new enforcement regime, offenders will no longer receive warnings. Instead, immediate action will be taken against anyone found throwing, depositing, discarding or leaving litter in public places or on public roads. “We have enforcement teams patrolling littering hotspots, and they are equipped with body cameras to record video and photographic evidence for enforcement purposes.  “If the offence can be proven, a notice will be issued requiring the offender to appear in court. Upon conviction, they may be fined up to RM2,000, ordered to perform up to 12 hours of community service, or both,” he told reporters after inspecting the implementation of the order and distributing information leaflets to traders and the public with Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) Mayor Datuk Baderul Amin Abdul Hamid in Bandar Perda today. H’ng said MBSP has equipped its investigating officers with 26 body cameras, while 119 locations across Seberang Perai have been approved for offenders to carry out community service if ordered by the court. Among the offences covered under the CSO are discarding cigarette butts, tissues, plastic waste, bottles and food packaging in public areas, dumping rubbish into drains, leaving litter in parks, beaches and recreational areas, throwing rubbish from vehicles, and abandoning food waste or rubbish after trading at night markets, food courts and hawker centres. H’ng said the enforcement applies to everyone, including domestic visitors, tourists and foreign nationals. For offences involving minors, legal responsibility will rest with their parents or guardians in accordance with the law. He added that implementation of the CSO had proceeded smoothly as of this morning and expressed hope that the public would comply with the law and play their part in keeping Penang clean. -- BERNAMA 

BUKIT MERTAJAM, July 1 — Penang has begun enforcing Community Service Order (CSO) against individuals caught littering, as part of efforts to strengthen public cleanliness across the state. State Local Government and Town and Country Planning Committee chairman H’ng Mooi Lye said the enforcement took effect today under the Local Government (Amendment) Act 2025  and […]

JKDM Dismantles International Drug Syndicate, Netting Contraband Worth RM300.7 Mln

NILAI, July 1 -- The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) dismantled an international drug distribution syndicate through five separate cases involving the seizure of various types of drugs weighing 4.83 tonnes, estimated to be worth RM300.7 million, from April to June this year. Its director-general, Datuk Amran Ahmad, said that this largest seizure involved 3,396.6 kilogrammes (kg) of heroin worth RM169.83 million, which was found in a container at West Port, Port Klang on June 15. The investigation found that the drugs were hidden in 18,870 boxes of beverages containing a liquid suspected to be heroin. The cargo is believed to have been brought in from a West Asian country in transit before being sent to Australia as the final destination. "This syndicate uses a modus operandi by making false declarations as food, soap, detergent, hair gel, and sponges to deceive the authorities," he said at a press conference at the JKDM headquarters here today. Amran said that the JKDM also seized 161.39 kg of cannabis buds worth RM12.91 million, from 11 cargo cabins containing 269 transparent plastic packages filled with the drugs, during an inspection at a logistics company in the cargo area of Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), Sepang on May 18. Amran said that following that, two locals in their 20s and 30s, who are shipping agents, were detained to assist in the investigatione. He said three more seizure cases involved various types of drugs and psychotropic substances totallnig 6.11 kg, worth RM978,778, methylenedioxy methamphetamine or MDMA (220.3 kg) amounting to RM33.05 million, and cannabis buds (1,049.5 kg), worth RM83.96 million at various locations including KLIA and Port Klang. All cases are being investigated under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. Amran added that the biggest success so far proves JKDM's continuous commitment to combating drug smuggling activities that make Malaysia a transit route. -- BERNAMA

NILAI, July 1 — The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) dismantled an international drug distribution syndicate through five separate cases involving the seizure of various types of drugs weighing 4.83 tonnes, estimated to be worth RM300.7 million, from April to June this year. Its director-general, Datuk Amran Ahmad, said that this largest seizure involved 3,396.6 […]

Over 30,000 Consumers Approved for Higher BUDI Diesel Quota – Amir Hamzah

PUTRAJAYA, July 1 — More than 30,000 consumers have been approved for an increased BUDI Diesel quota, with their monthly allocation raised from 200 litres to 300 litres to better accommodate users with higher diesel consumption. Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said the enhancement was introduced following feedback from small traders, hawkers and rural service providers who rely on diesel for their daily operations and require a larger monthly allocation. Speaking to reporters after inspecting the implementation of the BUDI Diesel programme at a petrol station in Putrajaya on Tuesday, Amir Hamzah said the response to the additional quota has been encouraging. "As of yesterday, over 30,000 consumers have applied for and received approval under the enhanced quota scheme," he said. The government has also introduced greater flexibility by allowing eligible BUDI Diesel recipients to transfer their subsidy entitlement to an immediate family member in situations where the vehicle is used by another family member but registered under a different name. According to Amir Hamzah, more than 1,000 applications for family quota transfers had been received as of yesterday. Under the new mechanism, eligible recipients may transfer their diesel purchasing entitlement once to a spouse, parent, child or sibling, subject to verification and approval. Once approved, the nominated family member can purchase subsidised diesel using their own MyKad based on the registered vehicle owner's eligibility. To further support the initiative, the Ministry of Finance (MOF) announced that the Road Transport Department (JPJ) will waive diesel vehicle ownership transfer fees for three months beginning July 1, 2026. The waiver covers fees of up to RM100 that would normally apply during ownership transfers. JPJ will also extend weekend operating hours from July 4 to July 31, with counters at all state JPJ offices and JPJ counters at Urban Transformation Centres (UTCs) open from 8.00am to 5.00pm to facilitate ownership transfers and BUDI Diesel-related applications. Meanwhile, Amir Hamzah announced that the subsidised BUDI Diesel price has been reduced from RM2.15 to RM2.10 per litre effective today, attributing the reduction to savings achieved through efforts to curb diesel subsidy leakages. He said the nationwide expansion of the programme, which commenced today after an early access phase in Peninsular Malaysia on June 27, has proceeded smoothly. Nearly 80,000 users have already utilised the facility, while more than 700,000 private diesel vehicle owners are expected to qualify for the programme nationwide. Amir Hamzah reaffirmed the government's commitment to continuously refining the BUDI Diesel programme to ensure a more efficient, user-friendly and accessible subsidy delivery system. Private diesel vehicle owners can check their eligibility status, monthly quota and programme details through the official BUDI MADANI portal. -- MINUTESMY

PUTRAJAYA, July 1 — More than 30,000 consumers have been approved for an increased BUDI Diesel quota, with their monthly allocation raised from 200 litres to 300 litres to better accommodate users with higher diesel consumption. Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said the enhancement was introduced following feedback from small traders, hawkers […]

MAHB’s Local Stake Must Not Fall Below 70 Pct — PAC

KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 -- The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has recommended that the combined shareholding in Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) by Khazanah Nasional Bhd and the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) be maintained at a minimum of 70 per cent to safeguard the nation's strategic control over the airport operator. PAC chairman Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin said the recommendation was aimed at ensuring that national sovereignty and strategic interests remained protected following changes to MAHB's ownership structure. "To preserve the country's strategic control, the combined domestic shareholding under Khazanah and the EPF must be maintained at no less than 70 per cent," she told a press conference at the Parliament building here today. The committee also recommended that any future changes to MAHB's equity ownership structure or the disposal of its strategic assets be subject to Cabinet approval through a transparent process. "PAC also recommended that MAHB strengthen integrated strategic collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, the National Security Council (MKN) and the Ministry of Communications to coordinate the development of the aviation industry," she said. Mas Ermieyati said the committee also recommended the early engagement of industry stakeholders, particularly local airlines, in infrastructure development planning to ensure that new facilities meet actual operational requirements. “To improve operational efficiency on a continuous basis, MAHB was urged to establish a regular consultation mechanism with major airlines to ensure that development planning is carried out through a consultative rather than unilateral approach,” she said. On transparency, PAC recommended that MAHB continue publishing periodic reports on its operational performance and key performance indicators (KPIs) for public access even after its delisting.  The Finance Ministry and the Ministry of Transport were also urged to ensure that MAHB submits regular progress reports on physical implementation and cash flow of high-impact projects, including the Aerotrain replacement, Baggage Handling System (BHS) and airport expansion works, to facilitate effective monitoring. The committee further recommended that these project progress reports be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat and submitted to the relevant Parliamentary PAC for the purpose of continuous checks and balances. “Procurement procedures and the contractor screening system should be tightened in collaboration with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and the Malaysia Competition Commission (MyCC) to curb cartel practices and safeguard the quality of public infrastructure," she added. -- BERNAMA 

KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 — The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has recommended that the combined shareholding in Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) by Khazanah Nasional Bhd and the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) be maintained at a minimum of 70 per cent to safeguard the nation’s strategic control over the airport operator. PAC chairman Datuk Mas […]

Malaysia, Thailand to Strengthen Agricultural Cooperation, Food Security Ties

KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 — Malaysia and Thailand are set to further strengthen strategic cooperation in agriculture, food security, and bilateral trade following a courtesy visit by Thailand’s Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Suriya Jungrungreangkit, to Wisma Tani today. The meeting, hosted by Malaysia’s Agriculture and Food Security Minister, Mohamad Sabu, focused on expanding market access for agricultural products, enhancing cooperation in fisheries and livestock sectors, and facilitating export processes through improved regional logistics networks. Both sides also discussed strengthening technical collaboration between relevant agencies to support sustainable agricultural development and regional food security resilience. During the meeting, Malaysia extended an invitation to the Thai delegation to participate in MAHA 2026, scheduled to take place from 28 August to 6 September 2026 under the theme “Value Creation for Food Security.” The participation of international partners such as Thailand is expected to further enhance global networking, while opening up additional opportunities for trade and investment in the agri-food sector. Mohamad Sabu expressed confidence that the long-standing Malaysia–Thailand relationship will continue to deepen through mutual respect, constructive dialogue, and cooperation that benefits both nations’ farming communities and broader populations. -- MINUTESMY

KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 — Malaysia and Thailand are set to further strengthen strategic cooperation in agriculture, food security, and bilateral trade following a courtesy visit by Thailand’s Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Suriya Jungrungreangkit, to Wisma Tani today. The meeting, hosted by Malaysia’s Agriculture and Food Security Minister, Mohamad Sabu, focused on expanding market […]

FAMA’s Agro MADANI Sales Reach RM46.72 Mln In First Five Months

KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 -- The Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority's (FAMA) Agro MADANI Sales (JAM) programme recorded sales of RM46.72 million through 1,833 programmes held nationwide between January and May this year. FAMA said the achievement reflected the agency's commitment to strengthening the nation's agri-food marketing chain while expanding market opportunities for entrepreneurs and improving consumers' access to fresh, quality produce at affordable prices. The agency said this in a statement issued in conjunction with the Penang edition of the JAM programme, organised by FAMA in collaboration with the Penang government at the FAMA headquarters in Selayang on Monday. Also present at the event were FAMA director-general Abdul Rashid Bahri and Penang State Economic Planning Division secretary Kamarul Azlan Mustaffa. The Penang edition was the third JAM programme organised in Selangor and is expected to attract 2,000 visitors, with a sales target of RM100,000. FAMA said 45 sales lots were made available, involving 30 entrepreneurs from Penang offering a wide range of quality agri-food products to consumers. "The platform serves as a medium to promote and enhance the marketability of entrepreneurs' products, while creating wider marketing networks and generating higher sales returns for them," it said. The programme also received support from Penang Rural Development, Agrotechnology, Food Security and Cooperatives Committee Exco Datuk Rashidi Zinol through a joint entrepreneurship development initiative with the Penang Bumiputera Development Council. FAMA said the initiative aims to strengthen the development of local entrepreneurs while helping to expand the market reach of products from Penang-based entrepreneurs. The programme featured a variety of daily necessities at affordable prices, while enabling consumers to purchase directly from growers and producers products such as Balik Pulau premium durians, Black Thorn, Red Prawn and Hor Lor durian varieties, as well as Cempedak King. Visitors also had the opportunity to purchase agro-based products and agri-food items produced by Penang entrepreneurs, while enjoying iconic state delicacies such as nasi kandar, Penang laksa, char kuey teow, mee sotong and air sarbat.   -- BERNAMA   

KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 — The Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority’s (FAMA) Agro MADANI Sales (JAM) programme recorded sales of RM46.72 million through 1,833 programmes held nationwide between January and May this year. FAMA said the achievement reflected the agency’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s agri-food marketing chain while expanding market opportunities for entrepreneurs and improving […]

Johor Polls: Perling BN Candidate Bets On “Pocket Talks” To Win Over Voters

JOHOR BAHRU, July 1 -- Taking a personal and grassroots approach, Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate for the Perling seat, P. Pannir Selvam, is relying on a series of “pocket talks” as his key strategy to win over voters in the 16th Johor State Election (PRN). While acknowledging the growing influence of social media as a modern campaign tool, Pannir Selvam, who is making his debut in state-level politics, believes face-to-face engagement through small-group sessions remains more effective and leaves a deeper impression on voters. He said the pocket talk approach not only narrows the gap between candidates and voters but also serves as an effective platform to better understand and address issues affecting the local community. “Through these sessions, I have the opportunity to meet voters directly, introduce myself in a more personal and approachable manner, and explain my vision while giving them confidence in my ability to serve the people in this constituency. “So far, the response from voters in the pocket talks held across this DUN has been very encouraging and has given me confidence to intensify the campaign as polling day approaches,” he told Bernama recently. As he seeks a mandate in what is expected to be a closely watched contest, Pannir Selvam described the unwavering support of his father, Datuk KS Balakrishnan, as a source of strength and motivation. He said the presence of his father, who is a political veteran, being a former Permas Assemblyman for five terms and also a former Johor state executive council member, represents more than parental support, but also invaluable guidance in understanding public service. “I am deeply moved that at the age of 84, he still has the determination to drive himself to campaign locations and go to the ground to support me regardless of the weather. “To be honest, I have learned a great deal from my father, especially in handling public issues, serving people without discrimination regardless of race, and accepting criticism positively,” he said. Pannir Selvam added that his father’s advice has always been to serve sincerely, honestly and with integrity if entrusted with the people’s mandate. On his pledges to Perling voters, the former Johor Bahru City Council (MBJB) member said he intends to prioritise resolving daily issues affecting residents, particularly traffic congestion and insufficient parking facilities around the Taman Perling Public Market. He said his experience in local government administration would enable him to address community concerns more effectively and efficiently. The Perling DUN, which has 109,992 registered voters, is seeing a three-cornered contest involving Pannir Selvam, Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate Alan Tee Boon Tsong and Parti Bersama Malaysia (Bersama) candidate Boo Wei Han. The Johor polls are witnessing a total of 172 candidates contesting 56 seats, with polling day set for July 11, while early voting is on July 7. -- BERNAMA 

JOHOR BAHRU, July 1 — Taking a personal and grassroots approach, Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate for the Perling seat, P. Pannir Selvam, is relying on a series of “pocket talks” as his key strategy to win over voters in the 16th Johor State Election (PRN). While acknowledging the growing influence of social media as a […]

PM Anwar Urges Swifter Action To Prepare Malaysians For AI-driven Future

KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 -- Malaysia must accelerate efforts to equip its workforce with the skills and expertise needed to thrive in the artificial intelligence (AI) era. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today said rapid technological advancements were reshaping industries and creating new opportunities, making it imperative for the country’s education and training ecosystem to adapt. “AI will shape not only how businesses run, but how commerce itself is conducted, how credit is assessed, how risk is managed and how markets connect across borders,” he said in his keynote address at the inauguration of Ant International’s Global Operations Centre here today. Anwar said the government was also finalising the AI Governance Bill to establish a regulatory framework for the human-machine future, complementing existing laws, including the Cybersecurity Act and data protection regulations. He said digital trust remained the foundation of nation-building in the digital era, which had been prioritised under the 13th Malaysia Plan and the final phases of the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint. On a similar note, Anwar noted that Malaysia must move swiftly to prepare its young people for emerging industries by strengthening talent development and introducing new disciplines in education and training. He said the government was intensifying efforts to ensure the country’s education system kept pace with rapid technological changes and the evolving demands of the global economy. “Both the National Digital Council and National Education Council have recently focused on equipping Malaysians with the right skills for the future. “We must ensure that our children and young people receive the best possible training and are prepared to venture into new disciplines and opportunities emerging globally,” he said. The Prime Minister stressed that Malaysia must adapt quickly to the pace of technological change to avoid falling behind in an increasingly competitive digital landscape. He also expressed appreciation to Ant International for its confidence in Malaysia and for supporting the government’s efforts to nurture local talent and expand opportunities in the digital economy. -- BERNAMA 

KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 — Malaysia must accelerate efforts to equip its workforce with the skills and expertise needed to thrive in the artificial intelligence (AI) era. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today said rapid technological advancements were reshaping industries and creating new opportunities, making it imperative for the country’s education and training ecosystem to […]