Day: July 8, 2026

YB Datuk Fahmi Commends Johor Election Dialogue, Says Platform Strengthens Democracy

KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has praised the successful organisation of the Johor State Election (PRN) Dialogue, describing it as an important platform that encourages democratic engagement and the exchange of ideas. In a statement today, Fahmi said he was grateful that the dialogue, jointly organised by Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM), Astro Awani and Sinar Harian, proceeded smoothly last night. “Alhamdulillah, the Johor PRN Dialogue organised jointly by RTM, Awani and Sinar Harian went well last night,” he said. Fahmi congratulated the organising teams for creating a space that allows democracy and the exchange of views to continue flourishing, particularly in the lead-up to the state election. He said programmes of such nature played an important role in providing opportunities for constructive discussions and enabling the public to better understand different perspectives on issues affecting the people. “Hopefully, programmes like this can continue to be held in the future,” he said. The dialogue is part of efforts to promote a healthy democratic environment by encouraging open discussions and greater public participation ahead of the Johor state election. -- MINUTESMY

KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has praised the successful organisation of the Johor State Election (PRN) Dialogue, describing it as an important platform that encourages democratic engagement and the exchange of ideas. In a statement today, Fahmi said he was grateful that the dialogue, jointly organised by Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM), […]

PRN Johor: Dato Onn Hafiz Highlights BN’s Commitment to Serve Batu Pahat Voters

BATU PAHAT, July 8 — Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi has called on voters in Batu Pahat to give their support and trust to Barisan Nasional (BN) candidates contesting in the 16th Johor State Election. Speaking during the BN Johor Election Campaign Tour covering the Senggarang, Rengit and Semerah state constituencies, Onn Hafiz said the strong response and warm reception from the people reflected the spirit of unity and togetherness among Johoreans. He said the tour provided him with the opportunity to engage directly with residents from various backgrounds, listen to their aspirations and understand the issues affecting them. “Throughout this tour, I had the opportunity to meet and greet the people of Johor from different walks of life, listening directly to their views and hopes, while witnessing the spirit of togetherness that continues to exist for the future of our beloved state,” he said. Onn Hafiz described the unity shown by Johoreans of various races as a strength that must continue to be preserved, adding that the spirit of “Bangsa Johor” reflected the people’s commitment to living together harmoniously. “In Johor, we are one big family. BN will continue to assist and defend the interests of all people without discriminating based on background,” he said. He urged voters to support the BN candidates contesting in the Batu Pahat area, namely Fared Khalid for N.17 Semerah, Zulkurnain Kamisan for N.18 Sri Medan, Mohd Yusla Ismail for N.24 Senggarang and Zaidi Japar for N.25 Rengit. Onn Hafiz expressed confidence that the candidates possessed the necessary experience, integrity and understanding of local issues to effectively represent the people. “I believe these candidates have the experience, integrity and understanding of the people’s needs in their respective areas. Give them the opportunity and trust to serve, bring forward the people’s voices and fight for their welfare and future,” he said. He also called on supporters and voters to ensure BN’s victory in the state election, while praying that all efforts undertaken throughout the campaign would be eased and blessed. “May Johor continue to be blessed with peace, prosperity and progress under the guidance of Allah SWT,” he said. The 16th Johor State Election campaign has seen political parties intensifying their outreach programmes across the state as candidates seek the mandate of voters to represent their respective constituencies. -- MINUTESMY

BATU PAHAT, July 8 — Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi has called on voters in Batu Pahat to give their support and trust to Barisan Nasional (BN) candidates contesting in the 16th Johor State Election. Speaking during the BN Johor Election Campaign Tour covering the Senggarang, Rengit and Semerah state constituencies, Onn Hafiz […]

YB Yuneswaran Welcomes MADANI Government’s FELDA Commitment, Calls for Greater Focus on Future Generations

KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 — R. Yuneswaran has welcomed the MADANI Government's continued commitment to strengthening Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA), describing recent initiatives announced by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim as a clear demonstration of the government's determination to restore confidence among more than 100,000 FELDA settler families nationwide. In a statement, Yuneswaran said the government inherited a FELDA burdened by significant financial challenges, including heavy debt, governance weaknesses and the impact of past decisions that affected the institution's financial position. He said instead of allowing those issues to persist, the MADANI Government had chosen to take responsibility by implementing the FELDA Recovery Plan, which allocates RM990 million annually from 2023 to meet FELDA's financial commitments. According to Yuneswaran, nearly RM3.96 billion has already been channelled under the plan, while the government's total commitment amounts to RM9.9 billion over a 10-year period. He noted that although the funds could have been used for other public infrastructure such as schools, hospitals and roads, the government prioritised ensuring FELDA's financial stability and protecting the welfare of settlers. However, Yuneswaran stressed that FELDA's transformation should go beyond resolving its financial obligations, urging the government to place greater emphasis on the needs of second- and third-generation settlers. He identified key challenges facing younger FELDA communities, including the shortage of affordable housing, limited access to residential land, insufficient quality employment opportunities and the need for greater exposure to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence (AI) and the digital economy. As the Member of Parliament for Segamat, Yuneswaran said the issue is particularly important because several FELDA settlements in the constituency have played a significant role in the district's economic development over the years. He proposed several measures, including accelerating housing projects for second-generation settlers, improving residential land ownership policies, attracting more investments and downstream industries into FELDA areas, expanding TVET and digital skills training, and strengthening infrastructure, internet connectivity and public amenities. Yuneswaran described FELDA as more than just a government agency, calling it a symbol of Malaysia's efforts to eradicate poverty, develop rural communities and build a strong Bumiputera middle class. He said the agenda to strengthen FELDA should transcend political differences and pledged to continue championing the interests of FELDA settlers to ensure the development of FELDA remains a national priority for the benefit of future generations and the country's continued progress. -- MINUTESMY

KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 — R. Yuneswaran has welcomed the MADANI Government’s continued commitment to strengthening Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA), describing recent initiatives announced by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim as a clear demonstration of the government’s determination to restore confidence among more than 100,000 FELDA settler families nationwide. In a statement, Yuneswaran said the […]

CPO Futures Pare Gains, Close Mixed On Cautious Sentiment Ahead Of MPOB Data

KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 -- The crude palm oil (CPO) futures contract on Bursa Malaysia Derivatives closed mixed on Tuesday on caution ahead of the release of the Malaysian Palm Oil Board's (MPOB) monthly data at the end of the week. Fastmarkets Palm Oil Analytics managing editor and senior analyst Sathia Varqa noted that CPO futures retreated from earlier highs after trading within a wider intraday range during the afternoon session. "Palm oil futures initially rallied on strength across the vegetable oils complex. However, gains were pared ahead of the release of the key MPOB data on July 10, with the market sentiment turning cautious as traders opted for a temporary pullback," he told Bernama. He added that the strengthening of the ringgit against the US dollar also reduced the competitiveness of Malaysian palm oil for overseas buyers, putting additional pressure on prices. At 6 pm, the local currency strengthened to 4.0685/0735 against the US dollar from Monday's close of 4.0825/0875. At the close, the spot month July 2026 contract dipped RM2 to RM4,483 per tonne, while August 2026 declined RM7 to RM4,516 and the September 2026 note lost RM3 to RM4,547. The October 2026 contract added RM1 to RM4,573 per tonne, while November 2026 rose RM7 to RM4,601, and the December 2026 note gained RM9 to RM4,625. The trading volume increased to 77,606 lots from 59,610 lots on Monday, while open interest inched up to 289,701 contracts from 288,418 contracts previously. The physical CPO price for July South was down by RM15 to RM4,505 per tonne. -- BERNAMA 

KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 — The crude palm oil (CPO) futures contract on Bursa Malaysia Derivatives closed mixed on Tuesday on caution ahead of the release of the Malaysian Palm Oil Board’s (MPOB) monthly data at the end of the week. Fastmarkets Palm Oil Analytics managing editor and senior analyst Sathia Varqa noted that CPO futures retreated […]

Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu Urges Johor Voters to Turn Out Early on Polling Day

JOHOR, July 8 — Mohamad Sabu has urged Johor voters to cast their ballots early on polling day, reminding them not to miss the opportunity to vote in the state election on July 11. Speaking after a group ceramah at the Kemelah state constituency, Mohamad, popularly known as "Bang Mat", thanked supporters who attended the event and encouraged voters to head to polling centres early to avoid long queues and ensure a more comfortable voting experience. He also called on the electorate to support Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidates, saying the coalition remains committed to serving all Malaysians regardless of race. Mohamad said PH aims to continue strengthening the economy, creating more employment opportunities and ensuring Johor's development remains on track for the benefit of its people. Reiterating the coalition's campaign message, he urged voters to back Pakatan Harapan under the slogan, "Johor Forward, Vote Harapan," ahead of polling day. -- MINUTESMY

JOHOR, July 8 — Mohamad Sabu has urged Johor voters to cast their ballots early on polling day, reminding them not to miss the opportunity to vote in the state election on July 11. Speaking after a group ceramah at the Kemelah state constituency, Mohamad, popularly known as “Bang Mat”, thanked supporters who attended the […]

YB Gobind Singh Urges Johor Voters to Reject Leaders Linked to 1MDB Scandal

LABIS, July 8 — Gobind Singh Deo has urged Johor voters to reject leaders associated with the 1MDB scandal, saying accountability must be upheld to protect the country's future. Speaking during a campaign event in Labis in support of Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate Elia Nadira for the N.05 Tenang state seat, Gobind claimed that UMNO's primary objective in the Johor state election is to secure victory in an effort to free Najib Razak from prison. Gobind said Malaysia is still dealing with the long-term consequences of the 1MDB scandal and criticised UMNO for continuing to defend Najib despite his conviction. He argued that the court's judgment had outlined substantial financial losses suffered by the country, adding that future generations would continue to bear the impact of the scandal if those responsible were not held accountable. Gobind stressed that voters should reject any attempt to undermine the legal process and ensure that those linked to the 1MDB scandal remain accountable under the law. He also reaffirmed Pakatan Harapan's commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous and inclusive Malaysia, calling on Johor voters to support the coalition in the state election to safeguard the country's future. -- MINUTESMY

LABIS, July 8 — Gobind Singh Deo has urged Johor voters to reject leaders associated with the 1MDB scandal, saying accountability must be upheld to protect the country’s future. Speaking during a campaign event in Labis in support of Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate Elia Nadira for the N.05 Tenang state seat, Gobind claimed that UMNO’s […]

Pawfund for Janaki Launches Urgent Appeal to Keep 62 Displaced Street Dogs Safe and Fed

8 July, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — Pawfund for Janaki - a campaign led by the non-governmental organisation (NGO), Persatuan Pembelaan Hak Anjing Jalanan Yang Tersisih Selangor (Pawtarian) today launches an urgent public appeal to keep 62 displaced street dogs safe, sheltered, and fed, following the recent land redevelopment that forced their relocation from Jinjang. The initiative seeks a modest but critical RM6,000 per month to cover boarding and food while long-term shelter plans progress. Pawfund for Janaki is raising funds through Kitafund at https://kitafund.com/campaign/19953  For years, Aunty Janaki—a former nurse now in her 60s—has been a tireless, informal caregiver to street dogs around Jinjang, Kuala Lumpur. Known to locals as a devoted “street‑dog guardian,” she treats each dog like family, remembering their faces, fears, and favorite spots in the shade. “These dogs aren’t strays to me,” said aunty Janaki. “They’re friends who found me when no one else would stop to see them. Every morning they would wait, and every evening they trusted I would return. I can’t break that promise, even if they are now gone from my side,” she added. For over four years, aunty Janaki has been caring for these 60 plus stray dogs around the Jinjang area. In that time these dogs had come to rely on her for food and basic care - in return she felt herself relying on them for her daily dose of happiness and purpose.  In early March, aunty Janaki received the news that the land where the dogs largely lived was set to be redeveloped. Anxious and directionless, she had to quickly relocate all the dogs or risk them being seized or put down by authorities. Thankfully, two good samaritans came to her rescue - content creator Sidney Rayos Michael and Navwin from animal welfare NGO, Pawtarian - stepped in and together with help from the public, they managed to relocate the 62 dogs in time.  “I’m not a hero,” said Sidney. “I’m just someone who refused to look away. We all have a voice—and when we use it together, great things can happen - in this case animals can get a second chance.” But that was only half the battle, now the real challenge has arrived. Finding a permanent home for the 62 dogs and finding a way to pay for their care in the interim.  While the dogs currently have a temporary shelter in the Klang Valley and the operators have graciously provided a substantially discounted rate, RM6,000 is still required monthly. This does not include any additional expenses that could be incurred if medical interventions for any of the dogs, which can happen regularly.  For nearly three months, Sidney and Navwin have worked day in, day out with aunty Janaki to keep the dogs safe. However, funds are now critically low. The team is calling on the public and fellow content creators to rally behind #PawfundForJanaki to raise awareness and raise the required funds monthly so their dear dogs don’t end up back on the streets.  “Fundraising is a marathon we can’t afford to stop running,” adds Navwin. “But every ringgit tells these dogs they matter. Hope is built one small act at a time.” As a lasting solution, Navwin and Pawtarian are building a 2.1‑acre sanctuary in Klang that will ultimately house up to 400 cats, dogs and other animals. The project requires RM500,000 in build-out costs, raised “brick by brick,” with a target to open later this year—timelines that are only possible with broader public support. The sanctuary will prioritise safety, hygiene, medical care, and enrichment—transforming survival into genuine welfare. “Pawfund for Janaki is step one—keeping these dogs safe today,” says Navwin. “Step two is harder but essential: a permanent haven where no animal’s life depends on tomorrow’s donations. Community is our backbone; with it, we can finish what we started.” Pawfund for Janaki is calling for all concerned citizens and animal lovers to lend a hand. “Even RM1 makes a difference when many people stand together. Amplify the story using #PawfundForJanaki. Share the Kitafund donation link. Tag creators and friends who care about animal welfare. Together we can make a difference,” Sidney concluded.   -- MINUTESMY 

8 July, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — Pawfund for Janaki – a campaign led by the non-governmental organisation (NGO), Persatuan Pembelaan Hak Anjing Jalanan Yang Tersisih Selangor (Pawtarian) today launches an urgent public appeal to keep 62 displaced street dogs safe, sheltered, and fed, following the recent land redevelopment that forced their relocation from Jinjang. The […]

YB Datuk Fahmi Fadzil Backs PH’s Arthur Chiong in Bukit Batu Campaign

JOHOR BAHRU, July 8 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has voiced his support for Arthur Chiong, the Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for the Bukit Batu state seat, during a brief visit to Johor Bahru yesterday. Fahmi said he took the opportunity to meet Arthur Chiong, who is also the incumbent assemblyman for Bukit Batu, while in the city. Describing Arthur as a young and energetic candidate, Fahmi praised his enthusiasm and said the PH candidate has many ideas to continue serving the people and driving the development of the Bukit Batu constituency. Fahmi also encouraged voters to support Pakatan Harapan in the Johor state election, reiterating the coalition's campaign message, "Johor Forward, Vote Harapan." Campaign activities have intensified across Johor as political parties continue to engage voters ahead of polling day. -- MINUTESMY

JOHOR BAHRU, July 8 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has voiced his support for Arthur Chiong, the Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for the Bukit Batu state seat, during a brief visit to Johor Bahru yesterday. Fahmi said he took the opportunity to meet Arthur Chiong, who is also the incumbent assemblyman for Bukit Batu, while […]

BNM expected to maintain OPR at 2.75 percent – Economist

KUALA LUMPUR,  July 8 --  Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) is expected to maintain the overnight policy rate (OPR) at 2.75 percent at its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, supported by resilient external sector performance, moderate domestic demand and manageable inflation risks, economists said. The MPC is scheduled to announce its latest monetary policy decision on Thursday.     External Resilience Supports the Status Quo Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd Chief Economist, Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said the current policy rate was still appropriate following the initial easing last year to mitigate the impact of external shocks. "Malaysia's highly diversified external sector really contributes to economic resilience," he told Bernama. He said exports grew at a strong rate of 45.3 percent year-on-year in May 2026, supported by 70.5 percent growth in the electrical and electronics sector, while liquefied natural gas exports surged 111 percent. Higher exports of information and communication technology services have also increased the services account surplus, contributing to the current account surplus, which increased to 3.0 percent of Gross Domestic Product in the first quarter of 2026, he said. Mohd Afzanizam said, however, private consumption grew by 4.7 percent in the first quarter of 2026 and was below the previous average growth of 6.0 percent while the unemployment rate increased slightly to 3.0 percent in April from 2.9 percent previously. "The move to maintain a stable OPR is a strategic priority to enable the Malaysian economy to grow at a good pace in the second half of 2026," he said. Limited Justification for Rate Increases Meanwhile, Director and Investment Strategy and Economic Analyst of IPPFA Sdn Bhd, Mohd Sedek Jantan said that currently there is no urgent need for BNM to adjust monetary policy unless major central banks, including the United States Federal Reserve (Fed), Bank of Japan, European Central Bank or People's Bank of China, make cumulative interest rate changes of more than 0.5 percent. He said the threshold for an OPR hike remains high because higher energy prices stemming from geopolitical tensions may result in supply-driven inflation rather than demand-driven inflation. "BNM is expected to be more inclined to examine temporary energy price shocks while assessing their impact on underlying inflation and economic growth," he said. He said the OPR was likely to remain at 2.75 percent for the rest of this year. If BNM and the Fed each maintain their policy rates, the ringgit's performance will largely depend on interest rate differentials and Malaysia's trade momentum, which will remain supportive in the second half of 2026. Possible Rate Hike If Growth Beats Expectations Co-founder and Group CEO of Juwai IQI, Kashif Ansari said that although the baseline projection is for the OPR to remain unchanged throughout 2026, stronger than expected economic growth could prompt BNM to raise the benchmark rate by 25 basis points to 3.0 percent at the September or November MPC meeting. He said such a move could be driven by stronger-than-expected economic activity or persistently higher oil prices causing inflation. “We still believe the MPC will maintain the current policy rate for the rest of 2026. If the MPC were to raise the rate by the end of the year, it would likely be driven by a much stronger economic performance than most analysts currently expect. "Apart from strong economic growth, the single biggest factor that could cause BNM to raise the rate by the end of 2026 is oil prices as they have a significant impact on inflation," he said. He said the conflict in the Gulf had driven up energy prices, which in turn led to inflation. "Headline inflation reached 2.0 percent in May, the highest in almost two years, however, if lasting peace in the Gulf can be achieved, inflation could ease." "This will open up space for efforts to restore subsidized fuel quotas, cheaper diesel for businesses and farmers, and lower shipping costs for Malaysian export and import goods," he said. -- BERNAMA 

KUALA LUMPUR,  July 8 —  Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) is expected to maintain the overnight policy rate (OPR) at 2.75 percent at its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, supported by resilient external sector performance, moderate domestic demand and manageable inflation risks, economists said. The MPC is scheduled to announce its latest monetary policy decision on […]