Day: July 6, 2026

Johor Polls: PH, BN Adopt Different Strategies, Bank On Distinct Strengths

JOHOR BAHRU, July 6  -- Campaigning for the 16th Johor State Election, now in its second week, has seen the two main political coalitions intensify their groundwork to reach out to the voters, with each banking on its own unique approaches to win the people's hearts. Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Barisan Nasional (BN), both fielding candidates in all 56 state seats, are opting for different campaign strategies and policy offerings ahead of the Saturday (July 11) polling day. PH is emphasising policy agendas and solutions that address the daily concerns of the people, while BN is leveraging on the strength of its party network and the presence of several high-profile political figures to boost campaign momentum. Dr Mohammad Tawfik Yaakub, a political analyst from Universiti Malaya, said PH's strategy is more focused on convincing voters through its policy offerings that address issues related to cost of living, income growth, access to affordable housing, human capital development and a more equitable distribution of economic benefits. He said the approach reflects PH's efforts to advance the narrative that Johor's development should not be measured solely by investment figures or economic growth, but instead be translated into tangible benefits that can be felt directly by the people. "PH is trying to convince voters that Johor's development should not merely be about investment figures but must result in better wages, affordable housing, quality employment opportunities and better guaranteed welfare for the people,” he told Bernama. "PH has unveiled its manifesto, titled "Johor For All”, which outlines a comprehensive action plan to address these critical issues, including focusing on integrated strategies to increase domestic wage levels, as well as ensuring investment returns are directly translated into improving the welfare and quality of life of the people of Johor as a whole. Meanwhile, observations at the BN camp show that the coalition has started aggressively leveraging the return of two well-known personalities: former UMNO vice-president Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein and former UMNO Youth chief  Khairy Jamaluddin (KJ), who both rejoined UMNO through the 'Rumah Bangsa’ initiative. Commenting on the re-emergence of former BN leaders in the state polls, Muhammad Tawfik said that in the current political landscape, voters have become increasingly discerning and are no longer easily influenced by the mere presence of prominent political figures at campaign talks (ceramah). "Voters today are more critical. They not only see who is delivering campaign speeches, but also evaluate whether the party has clear policy offerings, credible candidates and policies that address the people's concerns,” he said. Meanwhile, Ilham Centre chief researcher Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Yusry Ibrahim said Hishammuddin's active participation in this election campaign could very well reconvince some of the UMNO supporters who had previously become disillusioned with or distanced themselves from the party. The Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) lecturer also said that Hishammuddin still has a major influence in Johor, which could help revive support for BN, especially among the coalition's traditional supporters. Mohd Yusry added that Khairy's presence could also swing the advantage in BN's favour as it strives to reach out to younger voters, since he is one of the political figures who consistently enjoys positive support among that demographic. "KJ has consistently been a popular figure among the younger voters. His return has helped BN's campaign quite a bit, and it could spark an interest among a segment of voters that UMNO and BN had previously struggled to reach,” he said. According to him, voting patterns among young people have become increasingly fluid, as they no longer display the strong party loyalty seen in previous generations. "Young voters generally are not loyal to any party. They are more attracted to public figures they recognise, follow and feel connected to. That's why the candidate factor is becoming increasingly crucial to determining the voting inclination of this group,” he said. The Johor state election will see 172 candidates contesting 56 seats. Polling will be held on Saturday (July 11), while early voting is scheduled for July 7. -- BERNAMA

JOHOR BAHRU, July 6  — Campaigning for the 16th Johor State Election, now in its second week, has seen the two main political coalitions intensify their groundwork to reach out to the voters, with each banking on its own unique approaches to win the people’s hearts. Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Barisan Nasional (BN), both fielding […]

Sungai Rengit Fishermen Call for Stronger Protection and Urgent Action on Licensing, Infrastructure and Environmental Issues – Faizul Abdul Ghani

PENGERANG, JULY 6 -- The welfare and long-term sustainability of fishermen in Sungai Rengit must be given serious and immediate attention, following a key engagement session between the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM) leadership and the local fishing community, said Pakatan Harapan candidate for N39 Tanjung Surat, Faizul Abdul Ghani. The meeting, involving LKIM Chairman Tuan Haji Muhammad Faiz bin Dato’ Haji Fadzil and the Sungai Rengit Fishermen Association, provided a platform for local fishermen to directly voice long-standing issues affecting their livelihoods. Faizul said fishermen must not only be heard during specific seasons or occasions, but their concerns must be continuously addressed as they form a vital part of the local economy in Tanjung Surat, particularly in Sungai Rengit and surrounding coastal areas. Among the key issues raised was the fishing licence system, where concerns were expressed over inactive licence holders while active fishermen struggle to obtain proper licensing. It was also highlighted that out of nearly 300 fishermen in the area, a significant number are still operating without formal licences despite relying on fishing as their primary source of income. Fishermen proposed a comprehensive verification or field audit exercise by LKIM and the Department of Fisheries to ensure that licences are issued to genuine active fishermen, so that government aid, subsidies, and protection reach the intended recipients. The issue of licensing was also discussed in relation to Sungai Rengit’s strategic coastal location near international waters and close proximity to Singapore, where proper documentation is crucial to prevent enforcement complications or detention by foreign maritime authorities. In addition, fishermen raised concerns over shallow river mouth conditions, which have increasingly affected boat movement during tidal changes. They said the situation not only hampers access to fishing grounds but also poses safety risks and reduces daily income opportunities. Environmental concerns were also highlighted, including reported oil spill incidents involving nearby vessels. Fishermen called for clearer reporting channels and faster response mechanisms to ensure that such incidents are addressed promptly to prevent damage to marine ecosystems and fishing areas. Seasonal monsoon conditions were also discussed, as fishermen face income disruptions during periods when they are unable to go out to sea. They urged a review of eligibility conditions for fuel subsidy schemes to ensure that weather-related restrictions do not unfairly affect their access to assistance. Other issues raised included the need for coastal breakwater structures to reduce erosion, improved access to fishing nets due to rising costs, and the construction of new jetties closer to fishermen’s settlements to reduce travel distance, cost, and time while improving local economic activity. Faizul said he welcomed the commitment by the LKIM Chairman to escalate the issues raised to the Department of Fisheries for further action, stressing the need for concrete follow-up rather than discussions alone. “As the Pakatan Harapan candidate for N39 Tanjung Surat, I want to emphasise that the welfare and rights of fishermen are central to my Seven Commitments for the people of Tanjung Surat,” he said. He added that if given the mandate, he would continue to champion fishermen’s rights, particularly on licensing, infrastructure, maritime safety, equipment assistance, and economic protection in a more structured and sustainable manner. “Fishermen are not only contributors to the seafood supply chain, but they are an essential part of the Tanjung Surat community who must be defended through clear policies, attention, and real action,” he said. “Johor Ke Depan, Vote HARAPAN,” he added. -- MINUTESMY

PENGERANG, JULY 6 — The welfare and long-term sustainability of fishermen in Sungai Rengit must be given serious and immediate attention, following a key engagement session between the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM) leadership and the local fishing community, said Pakatan Harapan candidate for N39 Tanjung Surat, Faizul Abdul Ghani. The meeting, involving LKIM […]

India orders Meta to remove ads promoting child sexual abuse material on Instagram

HYDERABAD, July 6 -- India has ordered social media giant Meta to remove all child sexual abuse material from ads on Instagram following reports that the platform allegedly promoted such content. According to news agency PTI, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has directed Meta to "deactivate all advertisements and content that promote and facilitate access" to child sexual exploitation and abuse material.  The directive was issued after Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw ordered officials to summon Meta executives following criticism and media reports alleging that advertisements on Instagram promoted child sexual abuse content. The US-based company, which owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, was also ordered to take immediate action against content that was boosted by algorithms, in addition to submitting a detailed response to the government within seven days, according to a report on the NDTV website. The BBC recently reported that Instagram was running paid ads promoting child sexual abuse material in India. According to the report, the ads used terms such as "rape videos" and "child videos", as well as linking users to channels on the Telegram messaging app that offered the material for as little as 99 rupees (about US$1). -- BERNAMA 

HYDERABAD, July 6 — India has ordered social media giant Meta to remove all child sexual abuse material from ads on Instagram following reports that the platform allegedly promoted such content. According to news agency PTI, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has directed Meta to “deactivate all advertisements and content that promote and facilitate […]

Johor Polls: PDRM Mobilises 3,565 Personnel To Ensure Smooth Early Voting

JOHOR BAHRU, July 6  -- The Johor contingent of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has mobilised 3,565 personnel to ensure that the early voting process for the 16th Johor state election tomorrow proceeds smoothly, safely and in an orderly manner. Johor police chief Datuk Ab Rahaman Arsad said the deployment comprises 647 officers, 2,806 rank-and-file personnel, and 112 civilian staff. He said the personnel would be responsible for security at early voting centres, escorting ballot boxes, traffic control, crime prevention patrols, operations room duties, monitoring strategic locations, and enforcing the law in all areas involved. “Ahead of tomorrow’s early voting, the police are now at full operational readiness to ensure that the entire early voting process is conducted safely, smoothly and in an orderly manner,” he said in a statement today. Ab Rahaman said early voting tomorrow would involve 64 polling centres across Johor, comprising 53 police early voting centres and 11 Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) early voting centres. He said a total of 12,710 police personnel have been registered as early voters for the 16th Johor state election, with 12,067 set to cast their ballots at early voting centres tomorrow, while the remaining 643 will vote by post. The police would continue to enhance their level of operational readiness, monitoring and enforcement throughout the early voting process and for the remainder of the 16th Johor state election period. “Any violation of the law will be dealt with firmly, fairly and with integrity, without compromise,” he said. He also called on the public to continue complying with the law, respect the democratic process and extend their full cooperation to personnel on duty to ensure that the 16th Johor state election is conducted in a peaceful, harmonious, safe and orderly manner. Overall, the 16th Johor state election has drawn 172 candidates contesting 56 state assembly seats, with polling scheduled for July 11. -- BERNAMA 

JOHOR BAHRU, July 6  — The Johor contingent of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has mobilised 3,565 personnel to ensure that the early voting process for the 16th Johor state election tomorrow proceeds smoothly, safely and in an orderly manner. Johor police chief Datuk Ab Rahaman Arsad said the deployment comprises 647 officers, 2,806 rank-and-file […]

Quality Childcare a Long-Term Investment for Johor’s Future – Nor Zulaila

JOHOR, JULY 6 -- The development of high-quality childcare centres is a crucial investment in Johor’s future, as the state seeks to strengthen both its economy and family wellbeing, said Pakatan Harapan candidate for N40 Tiram, Nor Zulaila. As a mother of two young children, she said true progress should not only be measured by investment figures or economic growth, but also by how well a state supports families in raising the next generation. “Johor today has more than one million children. This means every policy we implement must take into account the needs of future generations,” she said. She noted that Malaysia’s Department of Statistics (DOSM) data shows Johor recorded the highest growth in registered childcare centres (TASKA) in 2024, reflecting increasing demand for childcare services as more parents join the workforce. Sharing her personal experience as a working mother, Nor Zulaila said she understands the daily challenges faced by parents who must balance careers and family responsibilities. “I go through the same routine as thousands of other parents—sending my children before work and rushing back to pick them up,” she said. She stressed that childcare should not be viewed solely as a women’s issue or welfare matter, but also as an economic necessity. Access to quality childcare, she said, enables parents—especially women—to remain in or return to the workforce, improving household income and contributing to the state’s economic growth. Under Pakatan Harapan’s proposals, she highlighted plans to establish 250 MADANI childcare centres and workplace-based TASKA facilities across industrial zones, government offices, and communities throughout Johor. “The goal is not just to increase the number of childcare centres, but to ensure they are located closer to workplaces, reducing the daily burden on parents,” she said. She added that many women with skills and qualifications are forced to pause their careers due to limited access to suitable childcare. With proper support, she said, they can continue contributing meaningfully to both their families and the economy. “This is the spirit of Johor Untuk Semua. We want to build a state that grows economically while supporting young families, empowering women, and ensuring every child has the best possible start in life,” she said. She concluded that the best investment a government can make is not only in infrastructure, but in people. “By supporting parents, we strengthen families. By investing in childcare, we invest in Johor’s human capital,” she said. -- MINUTESMY

JOHOR, JULY 6 — The development of high-quality childcare centres is a crucial investment in Johor’s future, as the state seeks to strengthen both its economy and family wellbeing, said Pakatan Harapan candidate for N40 Tiram, Nor Zulaila. As a mother of two young children, she said true progress should not only be measured by […]

Mobile Service and Community Outreach Bring Government Closer to the People in Skudai – Kartiyaini Jeyapalan

SKUDAI, JULY 6 -- The spirit of bringing services closer to the people was highlighted during a community outreach programme in Skudai, where government representatives and community leaders engaged directly with residents through a casual kopitiam session and mobile service counter initiatives. Speaking at the programme, Kartiyaini Jeyapalan, said the approach reflects a commitment to ensuring that government services are more accessible, especially for those who may not have the time or means to visit government offices. “Closer to you. That is my approach. If you cannot come to the office, it is alright. We bring the office to you through our Mobile Counter. If you cannot attend talks, we come to you through casual kopi tiam sessions like this,” she said. She emphasised that informed decision-making is key, especially in the lead-up to the state election, noting that engagement sessions are meant to provide clear information on government initiatives, ongoing efforts, and future plans while also addressing public concerns directly. “Ultimately, the choice is in your hands. What matters is that decisions are made with sufficient information,” she added. During the programme, a Mobile Counter was also set up, allowing residents to check their eligibility and status for various government assistance schemes, including STR and BKJ, without having to travel to government offices. Kartiyaini highlighted the diversity of the Skudai community, noting that different groups require different approaches to engagement, from youth to senior citizens. She said inclusivity must be practiced, not just spoken about, to ensure no one is left behind. She also expressed pride in her team, noting that it reflects true inclusivity, with members ranging from 18-year-old youths to staff and trainees in their 50s and 60s. “We do not just talk about inclusivity. We practise it through action,” she said. She extended her appreciation to state assembly members Ho Chi Yang (Tanah Rata) and Woo Kah Leong (Pasir Bedamar) for joining the ground engagement efforts. “Together, we continue working to bring Johor forward,” she added. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: IG KARTIYAINI JEYAPALAN

SKUDAI, JULY 6 — The spirit of bringing services closer to the people was highlighted during a community outreach programme in Skudai, where government representatives and community leaders engaged directly with residents through a casual kopitiam session and mobile service counter initiatives. Speaking at the programme, Kartiyaini Jeyapalan, said the approach reflects a commitment to […]

Malaysia’s Success Depends On Quality Of Human Capital – Fadillah

KUALA LUMPUR, July 6 -- Malaysia’s future success will depend not only on economic strength or technological advancement, but also on the quality of its human capital, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said today. He said the country needed individuals who could think critically, communicate effectively and adapt to change in an increasingly interconnected world. “In such a world, a nation’s success is no longer determined solely by economic strength or technological advancement,” he said when opening the ADNI International Students’ Conference (AISC) 2026 here. Fadillah said the challenges of tomorrow, including climate change, public health, digital transformation and social inequality, could not be addressed in isolation and required collaboration among governments, educational institutions, the private sector, civil society and young people. He said the MADANI Government placed human capital development at the heart of national progress, echoing the principle championed by Malaysia’s third Prime Minister Tun Hussein Onn that a nation’s strength lies in the unity and character of its people.   “Technology may connect our devices, but only shared values, mutual respect and trust can truly connect our societies,” he said. Fadillah said true development must encompass education, well-being, ethics, creativity, sustainability and social cohesion. On the conference, he said it reflected the spirit of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by nurturing young people who understood the importance of quality education, inclusivity, strong institutions and strategic partnerships. He added that opportunities for intellectual discourse and cross-cultural engagement were vital in producing globally minded individuals with strong values and a strong sense of identity. He also reminded students that while artificial intelligence might become more intelligent, it would never replace wisdom, and technology could never replace compassion. AISC 2026, themed ‘Thriving Together: Diversity, Education and Wellness in a Digital World’, brought together about 150 local and international students, including delegates from Thailand, the Philippines and Indonesia, to exchange ideas and strengthen regional friendship and cooperation. -- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, July 6 — Malaysia’s future success will depend not only on economic strength or technological advancement, but also on the quality of its human capital, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said today. He said the country needed individuals who could think critically, communicate effectively and adapt to change in an increasingly […]

PH Committed to Creating High-Paying Jobs for Johor Youth – Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari

FELDA PALONG, JULY 6 -- Chief Minister of Selangor, Amirudin Shari, has reaffirmed Pakatan Harapan’s (PH) commitment to creating more high-paying job opportunities, particularly for young people in Johor, in an effort to reduce their need to seek employment across the border. He said this while attending the Jelajah Harapan FELDA Programme together with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at Felda Palong, as part of a series of outreach programmes engaging with FELDA communities. Amirudin said the scorching hot weather did not dampen the enthusiasm of supporters who patiently gathered from early on to listen to the leadership’s address. He described the turnout as a strong sign of continued support for the government’s development agenda. In his brief speech, he reiterated PH’s commitment to strengthening Johor’s economy by creating quality employment opportunities, especially for the younger generation, so that they would no longer need to migrate or cross the causeway in search of better income. “It is time we provide these high-paying job opportunities to ensure Johor’s youth can build their future in their own state,” he said. He also urged voters to continue supporting Pakatan Harapan in order to sustain the state’s development agenda. “Vote HARAPAN, Johor ahead,” he added. -- MINUTESMY

FELDA PALONG, JULY 6 — Chief Minister of Selangor, Amirudin Shari, has reaffirmed Pakatan Harapan’s (PH) commitment to creating more high-paying job opportunities, particularly for young people in Johor, in an effort to reduce their need to seek employment across the border. He said this while attending the Jelajah Harapan FELDA Programme together with Prime […]

BN’s Pandak to put focus on housing, roads and clinics

PRINCESS ISKANDAR, July 6 -- Pandak Ahmad, the Barisan Nasional candidate in Kota Iskandar, has pledged to accelerate affordable housing projects, improve road infrastructure, and push for the construction of a health clinic if he is re-elected to the Kota Iskandar seat at the July 11 Johor polls. Housing, jobs and the rising cost of living have emerged as the defining issues in the battle for Kota Iskandar, home to Forest City and part of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone as candidates offer competing visions for one of Johor’s fastest-growing areas. Pandak said his priorities reflected the concerns consistently raised by residents throughout his campaign. He also said voters wanted political stability. He contends that Johor’s multicultural society had benefited from an administration that serves all communities under the “Bangsa Johor” concept.  “People want to live in peace and prosperity. They want jobs and housing. When they face problems, it is our responsibility as elected representatives to become the bridge between the people and the government,” he said. Pandak said Johor’s ambition of becoming a developed state by 2030 would generate more jobs and business opportunities for residents. He pointed to Forest City as an example, saying the township had shed its reputation as a “ghost city” following the launch of the JS-SEZ and the Forest City Special Financial Zone. Umno, BN leaders can’t be arrogant Reflecting on BN’s defeat in the 2018 general election, Pandak acknowledged that the coalition had made mistakes by failing to properly explain issues such as the 1MDB scandal to the public. “The lesson we learned is that Umno and BN leaders must not be arrogant. We have to go to the ground, engage with the people and listen to them closely.” He said the experience had prompted BN to place greater emphasis on grassroots engagement, with all 56 candidates campaigning directly among voters to rebuild public confidence. The Kota Iskandar seat is a four-cornered fight involving BN's Pandak, Pakatan Harapan's Dzulkefly Ahmad, Perikatan Nasional's Anna Pravina and Bersama's Sahrudin Omar. Pandak won the seat in 2022 with 23,133 votes for a 4,360-vote majority over Dzulkefly, who held the seat from 2018 to 2022. Cost of living tops PN’s agenda Anna said the cost of living remained the dominant concern among voters she had met. Her priority, if elected, would be to ease the people’s financial burden while ensuring that they benefited from the state’s economic growth. Anna said many young Johoreans continued to leave for Singapore because they believed better salaries and career prospects were available across the Causeway. “We need to help ease the cost of living and improve opportunities for local people,” she said. “They want good jobs, better salaries and a secure future. I want to create enough opportunities so they can build their future in Johor.”  -- SOURCE : Minderjeet Kaur   -- CREDIT : FREEMALAYSIATODAY 

  PRINCESS ISKANDAR, July 6 — Pandak Ahmad, the Barisan Nasional candidate in Kota Iskandar, has pledged to accelerate affordable housing projects, improve road infrastructure, and push for the construction of a health clinic if he is re-elected to the Kota Iskandar seat at the July 11 Johor polls. Housing, jobs and the rising cost […]

Local Institutions Extend Net Buying Streak To 12 Consecutive Weeks – MBSB Research

KUALA LUMPUR, July 6 -- Local institutions extended their net buying streak on Bursa Malaysia to 12 consecutive weeks, recording net inflows of RM474.6 million last week.  MBSB Investment Bank Bhd (MBSB Research) said in its fund flow report for the week ended July 3, 2026 that the sustained buying came as foreign institutions remained net sellers for an eighth consecutive week, with net outflows of RM391.1 million.  “Foreign investors were net sellers on three of the five trading days last week, with the highest outflows recorded on Tuesday at RM183.0 million, followed by Thursday (RM144.9 million) and Wednesday (RM130.3 million). The largest inflows were recorded on Monday at RM55.4 million, followed by Friday at RM11.7 million,” it said.  MBSB Research said the technology sector recorded the highest net foreign inflows at RM41.6 million, followed by transportation and logistics (RM26.0 million) and construction (RM22.2 million). The largest net foreign outflows were from the financial services sector at RM252.2 million, followed by consumer products and services (RM60.0 million) and healthcare (RM59.3 million), it said.  The average daily trading volume declined across all investor groups, falling 12.7 per cent among retailers, 23.4 per cent among local institutions and 5.9 per cent among foreign investors. -- BERNAMA 

KUALA LUMPUR, July 6 — Local institutions extended their net buying streak on Bursa Malaysia to 12 consecutive weeks, recording net inflows of RM474.6 million last week. MBSB Investment Bank Bhd (MBSB Research) said in its fund flow report for the week ended July 3, 2026 that the sustained buying came as foreign institutions remained net sellers […]