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MANILA: At least five people were reported dead after a 7.8-magnitude offshore earthquake struck the southern Philippines, according to a local disaster official, Xinhua reported. Agripino Dacera, disaster management chief in General Santos City, said authorities were still confirming the extent of the death toll and damage. According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, the tectonic earthquake struck at 7:37 a.m. local time at a depth of 33 kilometers (km) with its epicenter 32 km southwest of the coast of Maasim town in Sarangani Province on Mindanao Island, near General Santos, with a population of about 700,000. The institute said the highest waves recorded reached 1.4 meters. Local media reported several buildings collapsed and caused power outages. Tremors were also felt in neighboring regions. Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos ordered disaster response and monitoring efforts throughout the affected areas and urged residents to move to higher ground for evacuation. The Philippines experiences frequent seismic activity due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a major tectonic plate boundary zone known for earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. -- BERNAMA-XINHUA

Mindanao earthquake: Five confirmed dead so far

MANILA: At least five people were reported dead after a 7.8-magnitude offshore earthquake struck the southern Philippines, according to a local disaster official, Xinhua reported.

Agripino Dacera, disaster management chief in General Santos City, said authorities were still confirming the extent of the death toll and damage.

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, the tectonic earthquake struck at 7:37 a.m. local time at a depth of 33 kilometers (km) with its epicenter 32 km southwest of the coast of Maasim town in Sarangani Province on Mindanao Island, near General Santos, with a population of about 700,000.

The institute said the highest waves recorded reached 1.4 meters. Local media reported several buildings collapsed and caused power outages.

Tremors were also felt in neighboring regions.

Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos ordered disaster response and monitoring efforts throughout the affected areas and urged residents to move to higher ground for evacuation.

The Philippines experiences frequent seismic activity due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a major tectonic plate boundary zone known for earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

— BERNAMA-XINHUA

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As the cost of living continues to shape household spending decisions, more Malaysians are rediscovering a simple yet effective way to save money while maintaining a healthy lifestyle — cooking at home. From young professionals living in urban apartments to families managing monthly budgets, home cooking has become more than just a practical necessity. It is increasingly seen as a lifestyle choice that promotes financial discipline, healthier eating habits and stronger family connections. A Return to the Home Kitchen In recent years, food delivery apps and dining out became an integral part of modern Malaysian life. Convenience often outweighed cost considerations, especially for busy working adults. However, as household expenses rise, many consumers are taking a closer look at their daily spending habits. A meal purchased outside can easily cost between RM15 and RM25 per person, while the same meal prepared at home may cost significantly less. For families with children, the savings become even more substantial. Preparing meals at home allows households to control both their budget and food quality, making every ringgit go further. Smart Shopping, Smarter Spending Home cooking begins long before ingredients reach the kitchen. Budget-conscious Malaysians are becoming more strategic shoppers by comparing prices, purchasing seasonal produce and planning meals around weekly promotions. Wet markets remain popular for fresh vegetables, fish and poultry, while supermarkets offer competitive discounts on pantry essentials. Many households are also embracing meal planning, creating weekly menus to avoid unnecessary purchases and reduce food waste. By buying only what is needed, families can maximise value while minimising spoilage. Simple ingredients such as eggs, tofu, vegetables, rice and local fish continue to form the foundation of affordable and nutritious meals. Traditional Recipes Make a Comeback Interestingly, the trend towards home cooking is also contributing to the revival of traditional Malaysian recipes. Dishes such as nasi goreng kampung, sambal telur, sayur lemak, ikan kembung bakar and chicken curry are finding their way back onto dining tables. These meals are not only economical but also deeply connected to Malaysia's rich culinary heritage. Many younger Malaysians are learning recipes from parents and grandparents, ensuring that family traditions are preserved while adapting them to modern lifestyles. Social media platforms have further accelerated this movement, with countless creators sharing affordable meal ideas, cooking tutorials and budget-friendly recipes tailored to local tastes. Health Benefits Beyond Savings While financial considerations may drive the decision to cook at home, the health benefits are equally significant. Home-cooked meals generally contain less sugar, salt and unhealthy fats compared to many commercially prepared foods. Families can choose fresher ingredients, control portion sizes and incorporate more vegetables into their diets. Nutrition experts have long emphasised that healthy eating does not necessarily require expensive ingredients. Balanced meals can be prepared using affordable local produce and traditional cooking methods. As awareness of wellness and preventive healthcare grows, home cooking is becoming an important component of a healthier lifestyle. Strengthening Family Bonds Beyond economics and nutrition, home cooking offers something that money cannot buy — quality time. For many families, preparing and sharing meals together creates opportunities for conversation, learning and bonding. Children can participate in simple cooking tasks, while family recipes become a way of passing knowledge from one generation to the next. In an increasingly digital world, the dinner table remains one of the few places where families can slow down and reconnect. More Than Just Saving Money The growing popularity of home cooking reflects a broader shift in how Malaysians define a good quality of life. Living well on a tight budget is not merely about cutting expenses. It is about making thoughtful choices that support financial stability, personal wellbeing and family relationships. As Malaysians navigate economic challenges, many are discovering that some of life's greatest comforts do not come from expensive restaurants or trendy food deliveries. Sometimes, they come from a simple home-cooked meal shared with loved ones around the dining table. In a time when every ringgit counts, home cooking is proving that living well does not have to mean spending more. Instead, it is becoming a powerful reminder that good food, good health and strong family connections can all begin at home. -- MINUTESMY / SUGAN BALAN

Every Ringgit Counts: Why More Malaysians Are Returning to Home Cooking

SHANGHAI, June 15 -- The Shanghai Museum will present "On Top of the World Tree: Ancient Civilizations of the Americas" (July 9, 2026 – Nov. 14, 2027 at the Shanghai Museum on People's Square), a major exhibition exploring the artistic, cultural, and spiritual traditions of ancient civilizations across Central and South America. Following the success of 'On Top of the Pyramid,' this exhibition features exceptional objects from Mexico and Peru, showcasing the ancient Americas' greatest achievements. Organized in partnership with museums and cultural institutions in Mexico and Peru, the exhibition features 1,129 groups of objects, nearly 3,000 pieces. Through an expansive presentation of archaeological and artistic material, it examines the development of ancient civilizations across Central and South America and their enduring cultural legacies.    Occupying more than 7,000 square meters of gallery space, the exhibition is organized into two complementary sections focused on the histories, artistic traditions, and material cultures of Mexico and Peru. The first section, "Sacred Spaces: Civilizations of Ancient Mexico". Examining the relationship between belief systems, political authority, and artistic production, the presentation explores the cosmological frameworks that shaped ancient Mesoamerican societies. Through monumental works, ritual objects, and everyday artifacts, visitors are introduced to the intellectual and cultural worlds of these civilizations. The second section, "Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru". As the largest exhibition on Andean civilizations ever presented in China, it is also among the most significant international touring exhibitions of Peruvian gold and silver artifacts. Tracing the development of societies across the Andes, the exhibition highlights the region's artistic achievements while examining the social, political, and spiritual systems that shaped its civilizations. During the exhibition period, the Shanghai Museum on People's Square will be dedicated exclusively to the presentation. Inspired by the symbolic concept of the World Tree, exhibition design throughout the museum incorporates visual references drawn from the ancient Americas, including maize, jaguars, feathered serpents, and pyramids. To create an authentic ancient American ambiance, the venue becomes a 10,000 square meters immersive space, where visitors enter through a cornfield directly into the ancient landscape. Interpretive installations before the galleries introduce ancient America's landscapes, beliefs, and traditions. Starting June 1, 2026, international visitors can buy timed-entry tickets on Trip.com (ID required) or on-site at the Shanghai Museum on People's Square. -- PRNewswire -- Source: The Shanghai Museum

The Shanghai Museum to Present “On Top of the World Tree: Ancient Civilizations of the Americas”

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 16 -- The ringgit opened higher against the US dollar on expectations that the United States Federal Reserve (US Fed) will maintain interest rates amid easing inflation concerns and falling US Treasury yields. At 8am, the local currency strengthened to 4.0455/0550 against the US dollar from 4.0485/0525 at yesterday's close. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd Chief Economist, Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said crude oil prices continued to decline following growing expectations that a peace deal between the US and Iran on June 19 could potentially lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. He said West Texas Intermediate (WTI) and Brent crude oil prices fell 4.87 percent and 4.24 percent to US$80.75 and US$83.63 per barrel, respectively, while the 10-year US Treasury yield fell below 4.50 percent, reflecting concerns over easing inflation. "Therefore, such developments could influence members of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) as they consider the interest rate decision on June 16 and 17," he told Bernama. Mohd Afzanizam said the ringgit has the potential to continue its strengthening today after closing 0.18 percent higher on Monday, supported by optimism over the possibility of a US-Iran peace deal, although investors remain cautious ahead of the signing of the deal expected to take place on June 19. At the opening of trading, the ringgit also strengthened against a basket of major currencies. The local currency rose against the Japanese yen to 2.5245/5306 from 2.5283/5309 at Monday's close, strengthened against the British pound to 5.4270/4398 from 5.4355/4409 and rose against the euro to 4.6891/7002 from 4.6987/7033. Against regional currencies, the ringgit traded mostly higher except against the Philippine peso which was almost unchanged at 6.69/6.71 compared to the 6.69/6.70 level when it closed on Monday. The ringgit also strengthened against the Thai baht to 12.4228/4601 from 12.4294/4474 at yesterday's close, rose against the Indonesian rupiah to 228.4/229.1 from 228.5/228.9 and rose against the Singapore dollar to 3.1534/1611 from 3.1580/1613. -- BERNAMA

Ringgit opens higher against US dollar on expectations of Fed rate hold

KUANTAN, JUNE 16 -- The Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, is confident that tahfiz education in the state is capable of producing a generation of huffaz who will not only excel in the field of religion, but also become experts and leaders in various strategic fields in the future. His Majesty said that the Huffaz generation has great potential to venture into fields such as medicine, engineering, technology, artificial intelligence, economics and national leadership, in line with the needs of an increasingly challenging world driven by technological advancements. "With a strong foundation in the Quran, they will be able to emerge as future leaders who are not only excellent in terms of professionalism, but also have strong religious beliefs, noble character and high integrity," said His Majesty at the Pahang State Tahfiz Maahad Excellence Award Ceremony 2026, here, on Monday. At the ceremony, His Majesty also presented awards to 48 tahfiz students who excelled in academics, memorization and co-curricular activities. Al-Sultan Abdullah said the success of Pahang State Tahfiz School and Pahang State Tahfiz Turath School, which were listed among the top three schools in Malaysia for the 2025 Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) results, proved the excellence of the state's tahfiz education system. "This achievement demonstrates the success of producing a generation of huffaz who are balanced between excellence in religious appreciation and academics, and my wish to see this tahfiz maahad become the premier tahfiz educational institution in Malaysia has come true," said His Majesty. The Sultan of Pahang also said that the establishment of the Al-Sultan Abdullah Ahmad Shah Pahang Al-Quran University (UNIQSAAS) is a significant and historic step in strengthening the Islamic education ecosystem in the state. His Majesty said the university would become a new landmark in the development of knowledge based on the Quran and provide a more comprehensive educational path for huffaz to continue their studies to a higher level without abandoning the identity of Quranic education that was built since school. "I believe this effort will strengthen the Islamic education ecosystem in Pahang, thus making this state a leader in tahfiz education and Quranic studies in Malaysia," said his Majesty. His Majesty also stressed that the state government will continue to be committed to raising the academic prestige of the Quran at all levels of education to produce more scholars, professionals and leaders who are based on the values ​​of the Quran for the sake of religion, race and country. -- BERNAMA

Sultan of Pahang confident that tahfiz education can produce experts, leaders in strategic fields

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As the cost of living continues to shape household spending decisions, more Malaysians are rediscovering a simple yet effective way to save money while maintaining a healthy lifestyle — cooking at home. From young professionals living in urban apartments to families managing monthly budgets, home cooking has become more than just a practical necessity. It is increasingly seen as a lifestyle choice that promotes financial discipline, healthier eating habits and stronger family connections. A Return to the Home Kitchen In recent years, food delivery apps and dining out became an integral part of modern Malaysian life. Convenience often outweighed cost considerations, especially for busy working adults. However, as household expenses rise, many consumers are taking a closer look at their daily spending habits. A meal purchased outside can easily cost between RM15 and RM25 per person, while the same meal prepared at home may cost significantly less. For families with children, the savings become even more substantial. Preparing meals at home allows households to control both their budget and food quality, making every ringgit go further. Smart Shopping, Smarter Spending Home cooking begins long before ingredients reach the kitchen. Budget-conscious Malaysians are becoming more strategic shoppers by comparing prices, purchasing seasonal produce and planning meals around weekly promotions. Wet markets remain popular for fresh vegetables, fish and poultry, while supermarkets offer competitive discounts on pantry essentials. Many households are also embracing meal planning, creating weekly menus to avoid unnecessary purchases and reduce food waste. By buying only what is needed, families can maximise value while minimising spoilage. Simple ingredients such as eggs, tofu, vegetables, rice and local fish continue to form the foundation of affordable and nutritious meals. Traditional Recipes Make a Comeback Interestingly, the trend towards home cooking is also contributing to the revival of traditional Malaysian recipes. Dishes such as nasi goreng kampung, sambal telur, sayur lemak, ikan kembung bakar and chicken curry are finding their way back onto dining tables. These meals are not only economical but also deeply connected to Malaysia's rich culinary heritage. Many younger Malaysians are learning recipes from parents and grandparents, ensuring that family traditions are preserved while adapting them to modern lifestyles. Social media platforms have further accelerated this movement, with countless creators sharing affordable meal ideas, cooking tutorials and budget-friendly recipes tailored to local tastes. Health Benefits Beyond Savings While financial considerations may drive the decision to cook at home, the health benefits are equally significant. Home-cooked meals generally contain less sugar, salt and unhealthy fats compared to many commercially prepared foods. Families can choose fresher ingredients, control portion sizes and incorporate more vegetables into their diets. Nutrition experts have long emphasised that healthy eating does not necessarily require expensive ingredients. Balanced meals can be prepared using affordable local produce and traditional cooking methods. As awareness of wellness and preventive healthcare grows, home cooking is becoming an important component of a healthier lifestyle. Strengthening Family Bonds Beyond economics and nutrition, home cooking offers something that money cannot buy — quality time. For many families, preparing and sharing meals together creates opportunities for conversation, learning and bonding. Children can participate in simple cooking tasks, while family recipes become a way of passing knowledge from one generation to the next. In an increasingly digital world, the dinner table remains one of the few places where families can slow down and reconnect. More Than Just Saving Money The growing popularity of home cooking reflects a broader shift in how Malaysians define a good quality of life. Living well on a tight budget is not merely about cutting expenses. It is about making thoughtful choices that support financial stability, personal wellbeing and family relationships. As Malaysians navigate economic challenges, many are discovering that some of life's greatest comforts do not come from expensive restaurants or trendy food deliveries. Sometimes, they come from a simple home-cooked meal shared with loved ones around the dining table. In a time when every ringgit counts, home cooking is proving that living well does not have to mean spending more. Instead, it is becoming a powerful reminder that good food, good health and strong family connections can all begin at home. -- MINUTESMY / SUGAN BALAN

Every Ringgit Counts: Why More Malaysians Are Returning to Home Cooking

SHANGHAI, June 15 -- The Shanghai Museum will present "On Top of the World Tree: Ancient Civilizations of the Americas" (July 9, 2026 – Nov. 14, 2027 at the Shanghai Museum on People's Square), a major exhibition exploring the artistic, cultural, and spiritual traditions of ancient civilizations across Central and South America. Following the success of 'On Top of the Pyramid,' this exhibition features exceptional objects from Mexico and Peru, showcasing the ancient Americas' greatest achievements. Organized in partnership with museums and cultural institutions in Mexico and Peru, the exhibition features 1,129 groups of objects, nearly 3,000 pieces. Through an expansive presentation of archaeological and artistic material, it examines the development of ancient civilizations across Central and South America and their enduring cultural legacies.    Occupying more than 7,000 square meters of gallery space, the exhibition is organized into two complementary sections focused on the histories, artistic traditions, and material cultures of Mexico and Peru. The first section, "Sacred Spaces: Civilizations of Ancient Mexico". Examining the relationship between belief systems, political authority, and artistic production, the presentation explores the cosmological frameworks that shaped ancient Mesoamerican societies. Through monumental works, ritual objects, and everyday artifacts, visitors are introduced to the intellectual and cultural worlds of these civilizations. The second section, "Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru". As the largest exhibition on Andean civilizations ever presented in China, it is also among the most significant international touring exhibitions of Peruvian gold and silver artifacts. Tracing the development of societies across the Andes, the exhibition highlights the region's artistic achievements while examining the social, political, and spiritual systems that shaped its civilizations. During the exhibition period, the Shanghai Museum on People's Square will be dedicated exclusively to the presentation. Inspired by the symbolic concept of the World Tree, exhibition design throughout the museum incorporates visual references drawn from the ancient Americas, including maize, jaguars, feathered serpents, and pyramids. To create an authentic ancient American ambiance, the venue becomes a 10,000 square meters immersive space, where visitors enter through a cornfield directly into the ancient landscape. Interpretive installations before the galleries introduce ancient America's landscapes, beliefs, and traditions. Starting June 1, 2026, international visitors can buy timed-entry tickets on Trip.com (ID required) or on-site at the Shanghai Museum on People's Square. -- PRNewswire -- Source: The Shanghai Museum

The Shanghai Museum to Present “On Top of the World Tree: Ancient Civilizations of the Americas”

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 16 -- The ringgit opened higher against the US dollar on expectations that the United States Federal Reserve (US Fed) will maintain interest rates amid easing inflation concerns and falling US Treasury yields. At 8am, the local currency strengthened to 4.0455/0550 against the US dollar from 4.0485/0525 at yesterday's close. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd Chief Economist, Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said crude oil prices continued to decline following growing expectations that a peace deal between the US and Iran on June 19 could potentially lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. He said West Texas Intermediate (WTI) and Brent crude oil prices fell 4.87 percent and 4.24 percent to US$80.75 and US$83.63 per barrel, respectively, while the 10-year US Treasury yield fell below 4.50 percent, reflecting concerns over easing inflation. "Therefore, such developments could influence members of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) as they consider the interest rate decision on June 16 and 17," he told Bernama. Mohd Afzanizam said the ringgit has the potential to continue its strengthening today after closing 0.18 percent higher on Monday, supported by optimism over the possibility of a US-Iran peace deal, although investors remain cautious ahead of the signing of the deal expected to take place on June 19. At the opening of trading, the ringgit also strengthened against a basket of major currencies. The local currency rose against the Japanese yen to 2.5245/5306 from 2.5283/5309 at Monday's close, strengthened against the British pound to 5.4270/4398 from 5.4355/4409 and rose against the euro to 4.6891/7002 from 4.6987/7033. Against regional currencies, the ringgit traded mostly higher except against the Philippine peso which was almost unchanged at 6.69/6.71 compared to the 6.69/6.70 level when it closed on Monday. The ringgit also strengthened against the Thai baht to 12.4228/4601 from 12.4294/4474 at yesterday's close, rose against the Indonesian rupiah to 228.4/229.1 from 228.5/228.9 and rose against the Singapore dollar to 3.1534/1611 from 3.1580/1613. -- BERNAMA

Ringgit opens higher against US dollar on expectations of Fed rate hold

KUANTAN, JUNE 16 -- The Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, is confident that tahfiz education in the state is capable of producing a generation of huffaz who will not only excel in the field of religion, but also become experts and leaders in various strategic fields in the future. His Majesty said that the Huffaz generation has great potential to venture into fields such as medicine, engineering, technology, artificial intelligence, economics and national leadership, in line with the needs of an increasingly challenging world driven by technological advancements. "With a strong foundation in the Quran, they will be able to emerge as future leaders who are not only excellent in terms of professionalism, but also have strong religious beliefs, noble character and high integrity," said His Majesty at the Pahang State Tahfiz Maahad Excellence Award Ceremony 2026, here, on Monday. At the ceremony, His Majesty also presented awards to 48 tahfiz students who excelled in academics, memorization and co-curricular activities. Al-Sultan Abdullah said the success of Pahang State Tahfiz School and Pahang State Tahfiz Turath School, which were listed among the top three schools in Malaysia for the 2025 Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) results, proved the excellence of the state's tahfiz education system. "This achievement demonstrates the success of producing a generation of huffaz who are balanced between excellence in religious appreciation and academics, and my wish to see this tahfiz maahad become the premier tahfiz educational institution in Malaysia has come true," said His Majesty. The Sultan of Pahang also said that the establishment of the Al-Sultan Abdullah Ahmad Shah Pahang Al-Quran University (UNIQSAAS) is a significant and historic step in strengthening the Islamic education ecosystem in the state. His Majesty said the university would become a new landmark in the development of knowledge based on the Quran and provide a more comprehensive educational path for huffaz to continue their studies to a higher level without abandoning the identity of Quranic education that was built since school. "I believe this effort will strengthen the Islamic education ecosystem in Pahang, thus making this state a leader in tahfiz education and Quranic studies in Malaysia," said his Majesty. His Majesty also stressed that the state government will continue to be committed to raising the academic prestige of the Quran at all levels of education to produce more scholars, professionals and leaders who are based on the values ​​of the Quran for the sake of religion, race and country. -- BERNAMA

Sultan of Pahang confident that tahfiz education can produce experts, leaders in strategic fields

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