Sports

PETALING JAYA, JUNE 21 -- National bowling champion, Muhammad Rafiq Ismail continued to prove his superiority when he won the mixed open category title for the first time at the Kuala Lumpur International Open Bowling Championship MILO 2026 (KLIO26), today. In the action that took place at Sunway Mega Lanes, Sunway Pyramid, the 29-year-old emerged champion after recording a total of 2,020 pinfalls over eight games, seeing him fend off the challenges of 39 other participants, including several of the country's best players. Tun Ameerul Luqman Al Hakim Tun Hasnul Azam finished in second place with 1,918 pinfalls, while Megat Zaqrul Haiqal completed the top three after collecting 1,915 pinfalls. The victory completes Rafiq's hat-trick of championships throughout this month after also winning the Malaysia Open and Singapore Open, thus continuing his excellent streak ahead of the rest of the season. "I'm happy because of the three tournaments this month, I won all three. This is one of the sweetest achievements in my career," he said when met after the tournament. As the champion, Rafiq took home a cash prize of RM30,000. Meanwhile, he admitted that the victory came at the right time and was somewhat of a solace after his home was recently broken into, causing an estimated loss of RM60,000. "I consider this victory as a blessing and a replacement for what was lost. I hope it is the beginning of better things to come," he said. The tournament was organised in conjunction with the 50th anniversary celebration of the establishment of the Kuala Lumpur Tenpin Bowling Association (KLTBA). -- BERNAMA

Bowling: Rafiq wins KLIO26 mixed open title, completes hat-trick of championships this month

PETALING JAYA, JUNE 21 — National bowling champion, Muhammad Rafiq Ismail continued to prove his superiority when he won the mixed open category title for the first time at the Kuala Lumpur International Open Bowling Championship MILO 2026 (KLIO26), today.

In the action that took place at Sunway Mega Lanes, Sunway Pyramid, the 29-year-old emerged champion after recording a total of 2,020 pinfalls over eight games, seeing him fend off the challenges of 39 other participants, including several of the country’s best players.

Tun Ameerul Luqman Al Hakim Tun Hasnul Azam finished in second place with 1,918 pinfalls, while Megat Zaqrul Haiqal completed the top three after collecting 1,915 pinfalls.

The victory completes Rafiq’s hat-trick of championships throughout this month after also winning the Malaysia Open and Singapore Open, thus continuing his excellent streak ahead of the rest of the season.

“I’m happy because of the three tournaments this month, I won all three. This is one of the sweetest achievements in my career,” he said when met after the tournament.

As the champion, Rafiq took home a cash prize of RM30,000.

Meanwhile, he admitted that the victory came at the right time and was somewhat of a solace after his home was recently broken into, causing an estimated loss of RM60,000.

“I consider this victory as a blessing and a replacement for what was lost. I hope it is the beginning of better things to come,” he said.

The tournament was organised in conjunction with the 50th anniversary celebration of the establishment of the Kuala Lumpur Tenpin Bowling Association (KLTBA).

— BERNAMA

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IPOH, JUNE 21 -- Police have closed five zones in the disaster area affected by the storm around Bercham and restricted movement in and out to prevent property theft or break-ins to victims' homes in the area. Ipoh District Police Chief Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Muhammad Najib Hamzah said his department was, however, giving flexibility to residents who wanted to go out and enter the affected areas because they wanted to clean the areas around their homes at night. "We will be stricter (restricting movement) at night because there are areas that are affected, including Anjung Bercham, which still has no electricity supply. "If a resident wants to clean their house or belongings at night, we will monitor them. We will ask them if it is really their house because we are also worried that there will be incidents if they clean but in fact they are stealing," he said at a press conference after inspecting the Crime Scene Control Post (PKTK) at Bercham Police Station, here, today. He said that as of 8 am this morning, his department had received 492 reports regarding storm incidents that occurred through Op Bencana and there was no time limit for any victim to make a report. Meanwhile, Muhammad Najib said that so far the value of losses in areas affected by the storm has not yet been determined. Yesterday, Ipoh Barat Member of Parliament M Kulasegaran was reported to have said that the storm that occurred last Friday was considered unusual, affecting more than 200 houses in five areas around Bercham. Kulasegaran, who is also Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform), said the incident, which had never been reported before, was believed to be caused by the 'land-trunk' phenomenon. Among the areas affected are Anjung Bercham Utara, Taman Mujur, Kampung Bercham, Kampung Tersusun Tasek, Taman Pusat Bercham and Taman Indah Sakti. -- BERNAMA

Storm-affected areas in Bercham closed, movement restricted – Police

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 21 -- Starting as a small business during the COVID-19 pandemic, local footwear brand Machino has now achieved a proud milestone when its founders, two sisters, Esther Tai Shen Hui and Amy Tai Shuh Yuk, were recognised in the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia Class of 2026. The award recognizes young entrepreneurs, innovators and changemakers in the Asia Pacific region. Esther said the idea to establish Machino stemmed from the desire to produce women's shoes that were not only stylish but also comfortable to wear. According to him, the company collaborates with their uncle who runs a shoe factory to produce high-heeled shoes and flat shoes that emphasize user comfort. These key features are not only what makes their shoes so popular, but the local design inspiration also caught the attention of Forbes. "Our shoes have a thick inner sponge layer and many customers have told us they can wear them all day, including to do daily errands. That is one of our greatest achievements, which is producing comfortable high-heeled shoes that customers come back to buy again and again," he told Bernama. HONESTNESS, COOPERATION SUPPORT THE COMPANY'S SUCCESS Esther said the recognition was a meaningful achievement for the company, which was founded in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. "Being selected in Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2026 is a proud moment for us. This recognition is not just for me and Amy, but for the entire team who have worked hard to build Machino," he said. Machino was selected in the retail and e-commerce category for its success in developing a brand that combines elements of fashion, comfort and Malaysian cultural identity. Machino now has an online and physical presence through a store in a major shopping mall in Putrajaya as well as another branch in Selangor. Apart from women's shoes, the company also offers various other products including handbags, tote bags, children's shoes and men's sandals. On future plans, Esther said Singapore is Machino's first international market, while the company's long-term goal is to sustainably develop a globally recognised fashion brand. “What started as a dream of two brothers has now grown into something much bigger than we ever imagined. "Throughout these six years, we have gone through many challenges, but the support of our customers and community has always been the main driving force," said Esther. FORBES RECOGNITION STRENGTHENS CONFIDENCE IN THE COMPANY According to Esther, they started Machino with a simple goal: to produce comfortable and stylish shoes, which would one day be recognized globally. "Therefore, being listed in Forbes shows that we are on the right track," he said, adding that the recognition also increases the confidence of future partners, suppliers and investors in the company's ongoing efforts. In an effort to develop something new, the company has succeeded in creating its own distinctive features in the highly competitive women's shoe market. In addition, each pair of Machino shoes, whether heeled or flat, is 100 percent handmade, thus reflecting the unique Malaysian cultural elements that are the main attraction and build customer loyalty. “From delicate batik patterns to the textures of songket and Chinese brocade, our shoe designs combine these elements to highlight the beauty and diversity of Malaysian culture,” said Esther. The Machino brand also incorporates Asian cultural elements in many of its designs, including the use of batik and sari lace. 'MACHINO' MEANS MALAY, CHINESE, INDIAN AND OTHERS Esther explained that she wants the public to see Malaysian-identical designs as something valuable and unique. From a business perspective, he said, Machino is developing a strong omnichannel experience through its official website, TikTok Shop and physical premises, as well as participating in exhibitions and expos in Malaysia and Singapore. The company also places a high emphasis on customer experience by training its retail team using service principles inspired by the hospitality and aviation industries. He also explained that the name Machino itself symbolizes Malaysian identity, with “MA” referring to Malay, “CH” to Chinese, “IN” to Indian and “O” to Others. The Hana flower is the brand's iconic motif, used on shoes and bags as a symbol of celebration of local culture. Most Machino products are manufactured in Malaysia, thus supporting local artisans and ensuring that the country's handcrafted shoemaking industry continues to grow. Asked about the strategy to meet the demand for women's footwear market, he said Machino focuses on five main aspects, namely product, quality, customer experience, community and human resources. “We work closely with manufacturers to maintain quality, and as the company grows, Machino is constantly improving the customer experience both online and offline. “We are also building stronger relationships with the community, investing in teams and systems to prepare for the next phase of growth,” he said. Esther said Machino's direct-to-consumer model approach helps the company remain cost-efficient. “By selling primarily through our own website, TikTok Shop and a few select retail outlets, we are able to reduce the additional costs common in traditional distribution channels. “This also allows us to test products faster, better understand customer demands and avoid overproduction, with the savings being reinvested into improving the product, team and customer experience,” he said. AI ENABLES TEAM FOCUS ON HIGH QUALITY WORK Meanwhile, Esther also admitted that the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in the company's daily operations helps speed up and simplify work. “AI helps us follow industry trends, generate ideas, provide training materials and organize information more efficiently. “However, AI does not replace decision-making; it helps teams save time and focus on high-value work,” he said. With the selection of Forbes 2026 recipients made from nearly 4,000 nominations across 18 countries and regions in the Asia Pacific, Machino's inclusion on the list is considered a significant achievement for the company. Candidates for the list in 10 categories were assessed by the Forbes Asia Team based on various aspects including impact, uniqueness, creativity and innovation in their work. -- BERNAMA

Machino founder makes Malaysia proud, recognized by Forbes 30 under 30 Asia Class of 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, june 21 -- Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul confirmed that he has received a letter of notification regarding the position of Larut MP Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin as Opposition Leader. When contacted by Bernama, he also informed that the Dewan Rakyat meeting which begins tomorrow will involve several changes in the seats of MPs. This includes the seat of Pagoh Member of Parliament and Bersatu President Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, which was made at his own request. Based on the seating plan for MPs on the official Parliament website updated to June 19, Muhyiddin is currently placed in Block E in the Dewan Rakyat. Hamzah's position as Opposition Leader remains unchanged at the front row in the opposition bloc and is placed next to Kemaman Member of Parliament and Perikatan Nasional (PN) Chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar. Previously, PAS President Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang, during the Reset Malaysia Convention, announced that Hamzah would return to his duties as Opposition Leader. According to the Dewan Rakyat calendar, the Second Meeting of the Fifth Term of the 15th Parliament will take place from June 22 to July 16. -- BERNAMA

Speaker confirms Hamzah’s position, Muhyiddin’s seat changed

BINTULU, June 21 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today announced that the price of subsidised diesel for Malaysians will be reduced to RM2.10 per litre beginning in July, in a move aimed at easing the cost of living burden on the people. Speaking at an event in Bintulu, Anwar said the reduced diesel price would be implemented nationwide through the use of MyKad, ensuring that the subsidy reaches eligible Malaysian citizens directly. The Prime Minister said the decision reflects the MADANI Government’s commitment to returning the benefits of economic reforms, investment growth and improved national revenues to the rakyat. “Although the world continues to face challenges arising from the global supply crisis, the government has chosen to channel the gains from economic growth back to the people,” he said. Anwar also reaffirmed that the price of RON95 petrol would remain unchanged at RM1.99 per litre. The announcement comes as the government continues efforts to strengthen targeted subsidy mechanisms while protecting the welfare of ordinary Malaysians amid global economic uncertainties. Anwar added that further details on the implementation of the diesel subsidy programme will be announced by Finance Minister II tomorrow. The diesel price reduction is expected to benefit millions of Malaysians and forms part of the government’s broader strategy to balance fiscal reforms with direct assistance for the people. -- MINUTESMY

PM Anwar Announces Subsidised Diesel Price Cut to RM2.10 Per Litre From July

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PETALING JAYA, JUNE 21 -- National bowling champion, Muhammad Rafiq Ismail continued to prove his superiority when he won the mixed open category title for the first time at the Kuala Lumpur International Open Bowling Championship MILO 2026 (KLIO26), today. In the action that took place at Sunway Mega Lanes, Sunway Pyramid, the 29-year-old emerged champion after recording a total of 2,020 pinfalls over eight games, seeing him fend off the challenges of 39 other participants, including several of the country's best players. Tun Ameerul Luqman Al Hakim Tun Hasnul Azam finished in second place with 1,918 pinfalls, while Megat Zaqrul Haiqal completed the top three after collecting 1,915 pinfalls. The victory completes Rafiq's hat-trick of championships throughout this month after also winning the Malaysia Open and Singapore Open, thus continuing his excellent streak ahead of the rest of the season. "I'm happy because of the three tournaments this month, I won all three. This is one of the sweetest achievements in my career," he said when met after the tournament. As the champion, Rafiq took home a cash prize of RM30,000. Meanwhile, he admitted that the victory came at the right time and was somewhat of a solace after his home was recently broken into, causing an estimated loss of RM60,000. "I consider this victory as a blessing and a replacement for what was lost. I hope it is the beginning of better things to come," he said. The tournament was organised in conjunction with the 50th anniversary celebration of the establishment of the Kuala Lumpur Tenpin Bowling Association (KLTBA). -- BERNAMA

Bowling: Rafiq wins KLIO26 mixed open title, completes hat-trick of championships this month

IPOH, JUNE 21 -- Police have closed five zones in the disaster area affected by the storm around Bercham and restricted movement in and out to prevent property theft or break-ins to victims' homes in the area. Ipoh District Police Chief Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Muhammad Najib Hamzah said his department was, however, giving flexibility to residents who wanted to go out and enter the affected areas because they wanted to clean the areas around their homes at night. "We will be stricter (restricting movement) at night because there are areas that are affected, including Anjung Bercham, which still has no electricity supply. "If a resident wants to clean their house or belongings at night, we will monitor them. We will ask them if it is really their house because we are also worried that there will be incidents if they clean but in fact they are stealing," he said at a press conference after inspecting the Crime Scene Control Post (PKTK) at Bercham Police Station, here, today. He said that as of 8 am this morning, his department had received 492 reports regarding storm incidents that occurred through Op Bencana and there was no time limit for any victim to make a report. Meanwhile, Muhammad Najib said that so far the value of losses in areas affected by the storm has not yet been determined. Yesterday, Ipoh Barat Member of Parliament M Kulasegaran was reported to have said that the storm that occurred last Friday was considered unusual, affecting more than 200 houses in five areas around Bercham. Kulasegaran, who is also Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform), said the incident, which had never been reported before, was believed to be caused by the 'land-trunk' phenomenon. Among the areas affected are Anjung Bercham Utara, Taman Mujur, Kampung Bercham, Kampung Tersusun Tasek, Taman Pusat Bercham and Taman Indah Sakti. -- BERNAMA

Storm-affected areas in Bercham closed, movement restricted – Police

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 21 -- Starting as a small business during the COVID-19 pandemic, local footwear brand Machino has now achieved a proud milestone when its founders, two sisters, Esther Tai Shen Hui and Amy Tai Shuh Yuk, were recognised in the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia Class of 2026. The award recognizes young entrepreneurs, innovators and changemakers in the Asia Pacific region. Esther said the idea to establish Machino stemmed from the desire to produce women's shoes that were not only stylish but also comfortable to wear. According to him, the company collaborates with their uncle who runs a shoe factory to produce high-heeled shoes and flat shoes that emphasize user comfort. These key features are not only what makes their shoes so popular, but the local design inspiration also caught the attention of Forbes. "Our shoes have a thick inner sponge layer and many customers have told us they can wear them all day, including to do daily errands. That is one of our greatest achievements, which is producing comfortable high-heeled shoes that customers come back to buy again and again," he told Bernama. HONESTNESS, COOPERATION SUPPORT THE COMPANY'S SUCCESS Esther said the recognition was a meaningful achievement for the company, which was founded in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. "Being selected in Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2026 is a proud moment for us. This recognition is not just for me and Amy, but for the entire team who have worked hard to build Machino," he said. Machino was selected in the retail and e-commerce category for its success in developing a brand that combines elements of fashion, comfort and Malaysian cultural identity. Machino now has an online and physical presence through a store in a major shopping mall in Putrajaya as well as another branch in Selangor. Apart from women's shoes, the company also offers various other products including handbags, tote bags, children's shoes and men's sandals. On future plans, Esther said Singapore is Machino's first international market, while the company's long-term goal is to sustainably develop a globally recognised fashion brand. “What started as a dream of two brothers has now grown into something much bigger than we ever imagined. "Throughout these six years, we have gone through many challenges, but the support of our customers and community has always been the main driving force," said Esther. FORBES RECOGNITION STRENGTHENS CONFIDENCE IN THE COMPANY According to Esther, they started Machino with a simple goal: to produce comfortable and stylish shoes, which would one day be recognized globally. "Therefore, being listed in Forbes shows that we are on the right track," he said, adding that the recognition also increases the confidence of future partners, suppliers and investors in the company's ongoing efforts. In an effort to develop something new, the company has succeeded in creating its own distinctive features in the highly competitive women's shoe market. In addition, each pair of Machino shoes, whether heeled or flat, is 100 percent handmade, thus reflecting the unique Malaysian cultural elements that are the main attraction and build customer loyalty. “From delicate batik patterns to the textures of songket and Chinese brocade, our shoe designs combine these elements to highlight the beauty and diversity of Malaysian culture,” said Esther. The Machino brand also incorporates Asian cultural elements in many of its designs, including the use of batik and sari lace. 'MACHINO' MEANS MALAY, CHINESE, INDIAN AND OTHERS Esther explained that she wants the public to see Malaysian-identical designs as something valuable and unique. From a business perspective, he said, Machino is developing a strong omnichannel experience through its official website, TikTok Shop and physical premises, as well as participating in exhibitions and expos in Malaysia and Singapore. The company also places a high emphasis on customer experience by training its retail team using service principles inspired by the hospitality and aviation industries. He also explained that the name Machino itself symbolizes Malaysian identity, with “MA” referring to Malay, “CH” to Chinese, “IN” to Indian and “O” to Others. The Hana flower is the brand's iconic motif, used on shoes and bags as a symbol of celebration of local culture. Most Machino products are manufactured in Malaysia, thus supporting local artisans and ensuring that the country's handcrafted shoemaking industry continues to grow. Asked about the strategy to meet the demand for women's footwear market, he said Machino focuses on five main aspects, namely product, quality, customer experience, community and human resources. “We work closely with manufacturers to maintain quality, and as the company grows, Machino is constantly improving the customer experience both online and offline. “We are also building stronger relationships with the community, investing in teams and systems to prepare for the next phase of growth,” he said. Esther said Machino's direct-to-consumer model approach helps the company remain cost-efficient. “By selling primarily through our own website, TikTok Shop and a few select retail outlets, we are able to reduce the additional costs common in traditional distribution channels. “This also allows us to test products faster, better understand customer demands and avoid overproduction, with the savings being reinvested into improving the product, team and customer experience,” he said. AI ENABLES TEAM FOCUS ON HIGH QUALITY WORK Meanwhile, Esther also admitted that the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in the company's daily operations helps speed up and simplify work. “AI helps us follow industry trends, generate ideas, provide training materials and organize information more efficiently. “However, AI does not replace decision-making; it helps teams save time and focus on high-value work,” he said. With the selection of Forbes 2026 recipients made from nearly 4,000 nominations across 18 countries and regions in the Asia Pacific, Machino's inclusion on the list is considered a significant achievement for the company. Candidates for the list in 10 categories were assessed by the Forbes Asia Team based on various aspects including impact, uniqueness, creativity and innovation in their work. -- BERNAMA

Machino founder makes Malaysia proud, recognized by Forbes 30 under 30 Asia Class of 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, june 21 -- Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul confirmed that he has received a letter of notification regarding the position of Larut MP Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin as Opposition Leader. When contacted by Bernama, he also informed that the Dewan Rakyat meeting which begins tomorrow will involve several changes in the seats of MPs. This includes the seat of Pagoh Member of Parliament and Bersatu President Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, which was made at his own request. Based on the seating plan for MPs on the official Parliament website updated to June 19, Muhyiddin is currently placed in Block E in the Dewan Rakyat. Hamzah's position as Opposition Leader remains unchanged at the front row in the opposition bloc and is placed next to Kemaman Member of Parliament and Perikatan Nasional (PN) Chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar. Previously, PAS President Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang, during the Reset Malaysia Convention, announced that Hamzah would return to his duties as Opposition Leader. According to the Dewan Rakyat calendar, the Second Meeting of the Fifth Term of the 15th Parliament will take place from June 22 to July 16. -- BERNAMA

Speaker confirms Hamzah’s position, Muhyiddin’s seat changed

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