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Education

GEORGE TOWN, JUNE 15 -- The Ministry of Education (KPM) has given an assurance that no Chinese national-type schools (SJKC) or Tamil national-type schools (SJKT) will be closed under the administration of the Civil Government. Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh said the stance reflected the government's commitment to ensuring that all school streams continue to be maintained as part of the national education system. He said the government understood the concerns often expressed by the community, especially the Chinese and Indian communities, regarding the future of vernacular schools, including the issue of student shortages and challenges related to school sites. "Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek has repeatedly, both in Parliament and outside Parliament, stressed that vernacular schools are an important part of our education system. "The Madani Government's commitment is to guarantee that no school, whether SJKC or SJKT, will be closed. We will maintain all existing schools," he said at the Handing Over of Approval Letter for the Construction of the New SJKT Rajaji Building, here, today, which was also attended by the Chairman of the Penang Tamil Schools Special Committee, Datuk Seri S Sundarajoo. Kah Woh said that previously there had been various concerns regarding the possibility of certain schools being closed or merged, in addition to the position of vernacular schools which was often questioned by certain parties. Therefore, he said the government's guarantee is hoped to give confidence to school governing boards (LPS), educators and local communities to continue to focus on the development of their respective schools. He stressed that the Ministry of Education will continue to pay attention to the development of all school streams in the country in line with the government's aspirations to ensure that access to quality education can be enjoyed by every student regardless of background. Meanwhile, he said the increase in maintenance allocation from RM20 million to RM50 million for SJKT announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim last January was part of efforts to strengthen education infrastructure nationwide, in addition to ensuring that basic school facilities were in a safe, conducive and suitable condition for the teaching and learning process. Apart from that, he said, it also reflects the Madani Government's concern for the current needs of vernacular schools, especially those facing issues with building maintenance and basic facilities, with distribution being made in a more structured manner based on the actual needs of each school. In a related development, Kah Woh said 22 SJKTs with government-aided school status in Penang will receive funds totaling RM1.156 million for the purchase and replacement of furniture through allocations from the Malaysian Indian Community Transformation Unit (MITRA) under the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA). He said the implementation of the furniture supply would be carried out within one to two months after the process of matching school needs was completed with the school administration in the state involved. -- BERNAMA

MOE guarantees SJKT, SJKC will not be closed under the Civilian Government

GEORGE TOWN, JUNE 15 — The Ministry of Education (KPM) has given an assurance that no Chinese national-type schools (SJKC) or Tamil national-type schools (SJKT) will be closed under the .... read more

SEREMBAN, June 15 (Bernama) -- A total of 5,953 police personnel and members of other agencies will be deployed throughout the Negeri Sembilan state election period to ensure the democratic process proceeds smoothly and remains orderly. State police chief Datuk Alzafny Ahmad said the figure comprises 4,845 senior police officers and rank-and-file personnel, while the remainder will serve as support personnel, including members of the People’s Volunteer Corps (RELA) and police volunteer reserve. “We are maintaining a high level of readiness through various comprehensive preparations that have been put in place from the outset, including security measures, traffic control, monitoring of campaign activities, law enforcement, and preparations for any eventuality throughout the election period,” he told Bernama today. He said the police would continue to conduct ongoing assessments and have not ruled out the possibility of seeking additional assistance from other contingents if necessary to strengthen existing resources and ensure operational requirements are carried out more effectively. Meanwhile, Alzafny said the police would continue to respect the right of all parties to conduct campaign activities as provided for under the law. “Accordingly, security monitoring and control measures will be intensified to ensure that all campaign activities, including political ceramah, party processions and election-related programmes, are conducted peacefully and in compliance with regulations set by the authorities,” he said. He said stern action would be taken against any individual or party found violating the law, inciting provocation, or engaging in any act that could disrupt public order and undermine the smooth conduct of the democratic process. He also urged all political parties, candidates, supporters and members of the public to uphold a culture of political maturity, respect differing views and comply with the law throughout the campaign period. The public was also advised not to engage in any form of provocation, dissemination of false information, or actions that could create tension and jeopardise social harmony. The Election Commission (EC) has set Aug 1 as polling day for the Negeri Sembilan state election, with nomination day on July 18 and early voting on July 28. -- BERNAMA

10,000 underprivileged students benefit from RM210 million BAeK PTPTN allocation

KULAI: The National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) has allocated RM210 million through the Biasiswa Anak eKasih (PTPTN BAeK) which will benefit 10,000 poor and extremely poor students this year. .... read more

IPOH, June 12 -- The establishment of any school in the country is subject to the Education Act and cannot operate without approval from the relevant authorities, according to Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh. He said the Ministry of Education constantly monitors compliance with educational rules and laws to ensure that every institution offering learning operates in accordance with established guidelines. "The establishment of any school is subject to the Education Act, and naturally, no school can be set up without prior approval," he told reporters after attending the 69th Sekolah Menengah Jenis Kebangsaan (SMJK) Ave Maria Convent Academic Excellence Ceremony here today. Wong was speaking in response to allegations concerning the existence of a school run by the Rohingya community in Kuala Terengganu. Therefore, he said the ministry would leave the matter to the relevant authorities. Media reports yesterday indicated that a school believed to be operating for the ethnic Rohingya community in Kampung Ladang Titian, Kuala Terengganu, has triggered concern and unease among residents since February. Earlier, Wong congratulated 75 of the school's students for excellent 2025 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination results, including 37 who achieved 10 to 12 As. He said the results reflect the commitment of teachers, the school board, the Parent-Teacher Association and students to raising academic standards. At the event, he also announced a RM50,000 special allocation from his office for student-led projects at the school. -- BERNAMA

Establishment Of All Schools Subject To Education Act – Deputy Minister

IPOH, June 12 — The establishment of any school in the country is subject to the Education Act and cannot operate without approval from the relevant authorities, according to Deputy .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR: University of Malaya (UM), which is currently ranked 53rd in the world, is targeted to break into the top 50 global universities by next year. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir said the target was in line with the university's ongoing efforts in strengthening a culture of academic excellence, research, innovation and talent development holistically. "UM is ranked among the world's top 100. The latest is 53rd best in the world. Previously, it was around 60th, 70th, and now 53rd and maybe next year it will be in the world's top 50. Keep trying," he said when speaking to open the Universiti Malaya Ideas Festival 2026 (UM iFEST 2026) at the Tunku Canselor Hall, UM here today. Commenting on the direction of the country's higher education, Zambry said that the progress of a civilization today no longer depends solely on resources, but rather is centered on the production of ideas that are translated into high-impact solutions. To reinforce the narrative, he also cited the insights of former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and academic Professor Wilhelm Krull regarding the transition of global civilization towards the dominance of thought. "What did he (Churchill) say? The empires of the future will be the empires of the mind. In other words, the empires of ideas," he said, adding that the current educational revolution and technological advancements began with the ability of universities to produce groundbreaking inventions. In this regard, Zambry praised the organisation of UM IFest 2026, which was fully supported by the university's students, and described the programme as an important platform towards creating more progressive higher education. "We want to see our students, the talents in our university always develop well. These innovative efforts are carried out with a good theme, namely unleashing ideas , igniting change ." "This is a very big idea that we hope can produce something great in our context to create higher education that is more progressive, innovative and high-impact," he said. -- BERNAMA

UM is targeted to break into the top 50 universities in the world – Zambry

KUALA LUMPUR: University of Malaya (UM), which is currently ranked 53rd in the world, is targeted to break into the top 50 global universities by next year. Higher Education Minister .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 9 -- Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday engaged with students of AIMST University during the Annual Government Grant Presentation Ceremony and a "Temu Anwar" dialogue session held in an open and meaningful atmosphere. Addressing students at the university in Bedong, Kedah, Anwar stressed that a nation's progress should not be measured solely by economic growth, investment inflows, or employment opportunities, but also by the extent to which all segments of society experience justice and equality. He said Malaysia must not become complacent with its current achievements and should continue striving to create a more inclusive and equitable society. Drawing inspiration from renowned social reformer Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Anwar highlighted the importance of championing justice, human dignity, and equal opportunities for all, noting that Ambedkar rose above discrimination and marginalisation to become a leading advocate for social equality. The Prime Minister also reiterated the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, reminding students that while the world has enough resources to meet everyone's needs, it can never satisfy the greed of a few. He emphasised that values such as compassion, mutual respect, and moderation must remain central to building a civilised and harmonious society. Anwar called on the younger generation to embrace fresh idealism, reject politics rooted in hatred and racism, and help shape Malaysia’s future based on knowledge, unity, and justice. Reaffirming the MADANI Government’s commitment to social justice, he announced that, in addition to the annual RM25 million government grant provided to AIMST University, the government had approved an additional RM1 million allocation to help more students from underprivileged families gain access to quality higher education. The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the late Tun S. Samy Vellu for his contributions and role in the establishment of AIMST University, describing education as a vital pathway for young Malaysians to uplift themselves, their communities, and the nation. He encouraged students to make full use of the educational opportunities available to them and contribute meaningfully to the country's future development. -- MINUTESMY

Government Allocates Additional RM1 Million to Support AIMST Students – PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, June 9 — Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday engaged with students of AIMST University during the Annual Government Grant Presentation Ceremony and a “Temu Anwar” dialogue .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 8 -- The move to rebrand and the implementation of various initiatives prove that the MADANI Government will not stopped striving to improve the Form Six programme. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the effort included rebranding to improve the image, system and quality of education on par with other post-secondary education. "The Form Six programme is indeed very special and close to our hearts. We have implemented various initiatives to continue to elevate this programme," she said in a Facebook post today. According to her, initiatives such as Early Schooling Assistance (BAP), the establishment of the National Form Six Student Representative Committee and strategic collaborations with public higher education institutions were implemented specifically to support Form Six students. She said the Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) has high value and is recognised not only at the national level, but also by more than 2,000 international universities. Earlier, she greeted Form Six students who had just registered at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Tuanku Muhammad, Kuala Pilah, Negeri Sembilan. “Congratulations everyone. You have taken another step forward in your efforts to achieve excellence,” she said. -- BERNAMA

MADANI Govt Will Continue To Improve Form Six Prog – Fadhlina

KUALA LUMPUR, June 8 — The move to rebrand and the implementation of various initiatives prove that the MADANI Government will not stopped striving to improve the Form Six programme. .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 8 — Deputy Minister of Education, YB Wong Kah Woh, yesterday officiated the closing ceremony of the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (PBAKL) 2026 at the World Trade Centre (WTC) Kuala Lumpur. The 10-day event, which ran from May 29 to June 7, recorded an impressive attendance of 2,416,009 visitors, underscoring the continued growth and relevance of Malaysia’s book industry. A total of 232 exhibitor companies participated across 1,210 exhibition booths, comprising 209 local exhibitors and 23 international exhibitors. The strong participation highlighted the industry's dynamic development and increasing international recognition. In his closing address, Wong expressed appreciation for the overwhelming public response throughout the fair and said the success of PBAKL 2026 should serve as a benchmark for future editions. He also acknowledged the contributions of various stakeholders, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which participated as the Guest of Honour Country and enriched the event through cultural, literary, educational and publishing-related programmes. He noted that the involvement of countries from around the world not only showcased their unique knowledge and cultural heritage but also reinforced the role of books as a bridge connecting communities across languages, cultures and geographical boundaries. The closing ceremony also featured the presentation of ASEAN Record Recognition, the announcement of winners for the Telaah Online competition, and the presentation of the PBAKL 2026 Booth Awards. PBAKL remains one of the region’s largest literary events, promoting reading culture, knowledge sharing and international collaboration within the publishing industry. “This Year is Our Year” and “Guru Bitara is the Pulse of the Nation” were among the key themes highlighted during the event. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB MINISTRY OF EDUCATION MALAYSIA

Deputy Education Minister Officiates Closing Ceremony of PBAKL 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, June 8 — Deputy Minister of Education, YB Wong Kah Woh, yesterday officiated the closing ceremony of the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (PBAKL) 2026 at the World .... read more

BANGI, June 7 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has welcomed the launch of the Malaysia-China Industry-Education Alliance (MCIEA), describing it as a strategic step towards strengthening bilateral cooperation in education, skills training and future talent development. Speaking at the Malaysia-China TVET Diplomacy Dinner held at Hotel Tenera, Bangi, Zahid said the alliance would further enhance collaboration between Malaysia and China in developing a highly skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of the future economy. He noted that in an era increasingly driven by technology and innovation, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) must continuously evolve in line with industry requirements. “Collaborative initiatives such as MCIEA will provide greater opportunities for students and educators to gain exposure to strategic fields including artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, semiconductors and other emerging technologies,” he said. Zahid also expressed appreciation for the commitment shown by educational institutions and industry partners from China in supporting local talent development through knowledge-sharing, training programmes, scholarships, technology transfer and various initiatives that benefit Malaysia’s younger generation. He said such partnerships play a crucial role in strengthening the country's TVET ecosystem while ensuring graduates possess the skills and competencies needed in an increasingly competitive global economy. The Deputy Prime Minister expressed confidence that the collaboration between Malaysia and China would continue to create new opportunities for skills development, innovation and industry-driven education. “God willing, this partnership will further strengthen the national TVET ecosystem and produce more highly skilled talents who are ready to meet the needs of the future economy,” he said. -- MINUTESMY -- CREDIT: FB ZAHID HAMIDI

Zahid Welcomes Launch of Malaysia-China Industry-Education Alliance to Strengthen Future Talent Development

BANGI, June 7 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has welcomed the launch of the Malaysia-China Industry-Education Alliance (MCIEA), describing it as a strategic step towards .... read more

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PUTRAJAYA, June 5 -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has directed the Ministry of Higher Education (KPT) and the Ministry of Health (KKM) to immediately resolve issues concerning the recognition of Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) graduates from Alexandria University, Egypt, for professional registration and practice in Malaysia. In a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office today, Anwar said the matter requires urgent attention following complaints submitted by Malaysian pharmacy students currently pursuing studies at Alexandria University. The Prime Minister stressed that the interests and future of the affected students must be safeguarded while ensuring that professional standards in the pharmacy profession remain uncompromised. According to the statement, the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) does not face any obstacles in granting academic recognition to the PharmD programme offered by the university. However, professional accreditation required for registration as a pharmacist in Malaysia remains subject to evaluation and approval by the Malaysian Pharmacy Board. As such, Anwar has instructed both KPT and KKM to work together to find a comprehensive solution to the matter without delay. "The issue must be resolved thoroughly in line with the MADANI principles that emphasise justice, compassion and wisdom in every decision affecting the future of the people, while maintaining the professional standards established for the pharmacy field," the statement said. The Prime Minister's Office reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring that students receive fair consideration and clear pathways towards professional recognition and employment upon completion of their studies.

PM ANWAR DIRECTS IMMEDIATE RESOLUTION OF ALEXANDRIA UNIVERSITY PHARMACY GRADUATES’ RECOGNITION ISSUE

PUTRAJAYA, June 5 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has directed the Ministry of Higher Education (KPT) and the Ministry of Health (KKM) to immediately resolve issues concerning the .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR: The government's austerity measures in drafting the 2027 Budget will not affect the Ministry of Education's (MOE) main plans, especially in the scope of recruiting new teachers and building additional classrooms, said Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek. He also assured that the austerity measures would not disrupt beneficiaries of the Supplementary Food Plan (RMT) program, which is considered important for students' nutritional intake. Apart from that, Fadhlina said repairs to dilapidated schools and building maintenance would continue as usual. "We do not want the people to feel worried and upset because although the call for austerity is a very important and critical call at this time, I would like to assure you that it will not interfere or interfere in a context closely related to priorities at the ministerial level," he said. He said this to reporters after opening the International Symposium on Libraries, Translation and Artificial Intelligence (LiTr.AI) 2026 at Wisma Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP), here today. Fadhlina said the Ministry of Education would also ensure that any austerity measures would not affect the launch of the new curriculum next year, as well as the entry of six-year-old children into year one. Previously, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim hinted that the 2027 Budget would be drafted with more austerity measures following global economic pressures that affected the country's fiscal position, including involving the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education. Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said global geopolitical uncertainties, including the chain of tensions following the attack by the United States and its ally Israel on Iran, were having an impact on the global economy, thus demanding more prudent government spending. Meanwhile, regarding the provision of RM100 book vouchers for secondary school students under the Ministry of Education and students of public higher education institutions (IPTA), which was announced by the Prime Minister when opening the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (PBAKL) 2026 last Friday, Fadhlina said it would begin to be distributed as soon as school sessions reopened. -- BERNAMA

Budget 2027: Savings measures will not affect MOE’s main plans – Fadhlina

KUALA LUMPUR: The government’s austerity measures in drafting the 2027 Budget will not affect the Ministry of Education’s (MOE) main plans, especially in the scope of recruiting new teachers and .... read more

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SEPANG: The operation of Light Rail Transit 3 (LRT3) which connects Shah Alam, Selangor with surrounding areas is expected to begin at the end of this month, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook. He said the start date of operations would be announced in two weeks and the project was currently in the final phase of trial operations. "After various tests have been carried out and trial operations have been finalised, we are confident that operations (LRT3) can commence," he told reporters after chairing the 62nd Annual General Meeting of the Road Safety Council here today. Meanwhile, Loke said the Bill (RUU) establishing the Malaysian Transport Safety Board (MTSB) will not be tabled in the Parliament session which begins next week. "MTSB has received Cabinet approval, but we are now discussing with the Public Service Department to look at staffing and so on." "This bill will be brought to the next sitting because at this sitting, there is one bill, namely the amendment to the Road Transport Act, which we are giving priority," he said. Loke said the Ministry of Transport (MOT) has also identified individuals to be appointed to the MTSB, which will be finalized in the near future. In another development, Loke said the MOT would hold discussions with e-hailing operators on the possibility of implementing additional safety measures to protect the safety of their drivers. Among the suggestions raised is the installation of dashboard cameras ( dashcams ) in e-hailing vehicles, but this needs to take into account passenger privacy concerns. "In terms of safety measures, we will discuss further with the operator to see what other actions they can take to protect drivers." "In terms of safety, drivers and passengers are equally important. So we have to ensure a balance between the two," he said. -- BERNAMA

LRT3 expected to start operating by the end of June – Loke

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 15 -- About 7,000 to 8,000 Rohingya were sent to third countries each year through intergovernmental cooperation, said Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail. However, he said the process has now stalled due to various constraints faced by the countries involved. He said the Rohingya ethnic issue was an international issue stemming from the political and security situation in Myanmar, causing Malaysia to accept their presence on humanitarian grounds. "Malaysia has government-to-government (G2G) cooperation with several countries that allows Rohingya refugees to be temporarily housed before being sent to third countries that need their labor or professional services. "Recently, the process of resettling Rohingyas to third countries has faced several constraints, causing their movement to the country to be halted, thus raising various issues that require the attention of all parties," he told reporters after the launch of the Fight Against Scam: Two Teams, One Goal, here, today. Mohd Khalid said that apart from that, Malaysia also took into account the humanitarian aspect in dealing with the issue, in addition to ensuring that national security continues to be maintained. "Everyone who comes to this country must follow the laws and regulations that have been set. These people are subject to our laws. If they commit an offence, we will take action just like we do against anyone else who comes to our country," he said. He said about 215,000 Rohingya are registered with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) while local authorities also have their records in collaboration with the Immigration Department to facilitate monitoring. "We know where they are and what their jobs are. So if any crime occurs involving them, it will be easy for us to take action when we know their location and so on," he said. Commenting on crime trends involving the community, Mohd Khalid said the involvement of the Rohingya ethnic group in crime was low, with 89 individuals recorded as being involved in criminal cases for the period 2024 to this year, which is 0.02 percent of the overall crime statistics in the country. In this regard, he reminded the public not to make statements that could affect public safety and order, while stressing that enforcement action would be taken against any individual who violates the law regardless of nationality. The media last Saturday reported that Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said that the rate of resettlement to third countries by the UNHCR was too low for refugees, including the Rohingya, which was one of the reasons why the group remained in the midst of local communities for a long time. Meanwhile, Selangor Police Chief Datuk Shazeli Kahar said the state recorded 192 cases involving 300 arrests of Rohingya between 2025 and May 2026 involving violent and property crimes. He said the police always take consistent and continuous enforcement action and are not based on current sentiment. "The police always work closely with strategic agency partners, for example the Immigration Department and Local Authorities (PBT), we work together to exchange information and carry out integrated operations," he said at a press conference by the Selangor Commercial Crime Investigation Department, here, today. Shazeli said last year six integrated operations were carried out throughout the state of Selangor to address the issue. Commenting on the issue of demolition of illegal settlements, he said discussions on the matter were being held with the local authorities involved so that further, more constructive action could be taken in line with legal provisions. – BERNAMA

Deportation of thousands of Rohingya to third countries every year has stopped – IGP

KUALA LUMPUR, June 15 — Communications Minister and Lembah Pantai Member of Parliament Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has welcomed the successful launch of the Dengue-Free Community (KomBeD) Programme and Mega Anti-Aedes Gotong-Royong initiative, describing it as an important step towards strengthening community involvement in dengue prevention and control efforts. The programme, organised by the Lembah Pantai Health Office in collaboration with the Lembah Pantai parliamentary constituency, was held on Sunday (June 14) and brought together government agencies, strategic partners and local residents in a united effort to combat the spread of dengue fever. The event also featured the National Healthy Malaysia Agenda (ANMS) Roadshow for Lembah Pantai, aimed at promoting healthy lifestyle practices and enhancing public awareness of health-related issues within the community. Fahmi said the initiative reflects the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining a clean, safe and healthy environment, while encouraging greater public participation in efforts to eliminate Aedes mosquito breeding grounds. "Community engagement remains a key component in the fight against dengue. Through programmes such as KomBeD and the Mega Anti-Aedes Gotong-Royong, residents are empowered to take proactive measures in protecting their neighbourhoods and families from dengue outbreaks," he said. He expressed hope that the programme would serve as a catalyst for building a more aware, proactive and committed community capable of sustaining a cleaner, healthier and dengue-free environment. Fahmi also extended his appreciation to all participating agencies, strategic partners and members of the local community for their cooperation and dedication in ensuring the success of the programme. "The commitment shown by all stakeholders demonstrates that effective public health initiatives require strong collaboration between the government, community leaders and residents. Together, we can create healthier communities and reduce the threat posed by dengue," he added. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB FAHMI FADZIL

Datuk Fahmi Commends Community Participation in Dengue-Free Community Launch and Mega Anti-Aedes Campaign

KUALA LUMPUR, June 15 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today described the groundbreaking ceremony for the Bukit Kiara Permanent Housing Project as a historic milestone that reflects the MADANI Government's commitment to justice, dignity and the welfare of the people. Speaking at the ceremony, Anwar said the project marks the end of a 44-year struggle for residents of Rumah Panjang Bukit Kiara, who have lived in temporary settlements under challenging conditions while awaiting a permanent housing solution. "This is a meaningful and joyous moment, not only for the residents of Rumah Panjang Bukit Kiara, but also proof that an administration guided by MADANI values will always place justice, courtesy and the dignity of the people at the forefront," he said. The Prime Minister noted that the project represents a concrete step towards resolving a long-standing issue that has affected generations of residents and demonstrates the government's determination to ensure citizens receive their rightful access to proper housing. He said the process of addressing the matter required careful consideration and collaboration among various stakeholders to identify the best possible solution while safeguarding the interests of the affected community. Anwar also expressed appreciation to all parties involved in making the project a reality, stressing that the experience underscored the importance of respecting legislative processes and upholding the role of national institutions. "The rights and welfare of those in need must continue to be protected, with justice enjoyed by all citizens regardless of race, religion or background," he said. He added that the government's efforts to uplift the urban poor would remain a priority, in line with its commitment to ensuring that no segment of society is left behind in the nation's development agenda. According to Anwar, development must be inclusive and benefit all levels of society, as true national progress can only be achieved when every citizen is able to participate in and benefit from economic and social advancement. During the ceremony, the Prime Minister also announced a RM1 million grant to assist longhouse residents transitioning into their new homes. The allocation will be used to provide residential maintenance subsidies for a period of three years and will be managed by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL). He said the initiative forms part of the MADANI Government's ongoing commitment to preserving the welfare and quality of life of residents after they relocate to their new permanent housing units. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

Bukit Kiara Permanent Housing Project Ends 44-Year Wait for Longhouse Residents – PM Anwar

LONDON, 15 June  -- AI is rapidly reshaping the skills employers want most from workers – increasing the emphasis on human skills such as judgement, creativity and leadership – as companies most able to use AI continue to expand hiring faster than their peers, according to PwC's 2026 Global AI Jobs Barometer, released today.  The Barometer, which analysed more than one billion job ads across six continents, also finds that AI is driving a 'two-track' global labour market in which 'professionalised' roles – in which AI automates routine tasks so human judgement and expertise are emphasized – are growing faster than roles 'democratised' by AI – in which AI makes the role itself easier for non-experts to perform. 'Professionalised' roles (such as radiologists or recruiters) are seeing twice the growth in available jobs and 42% faster salary growth than those categorised as 'democratised' (such as IT service managers or medical secretaries). At the entry level, AI appears to be increasing demand for more 'senior' skills from junior workers. Based on 2.4 million entry-level jobs analysed in the US, entry-level roles most exposed to AI are now seven times more likely to require traditionally senior-level 'human-intensive' skills like leadership, creativity or face-to-face interactions. Job openings for these 'seniorised' entry-level roles have grown 35% since 2019, while other entry-level roles shrank 10%. Joe Atkinson, Global Chief AI Officer, PwC, said: "Across the global economy, we're beginning to see a new divide emerge between different models for talent and value creation. The companies seeing the greatest returns on AI are using it to amplify human expertise, accelerate innovation and create entirely new sources of value. As a result, they are pulling further ahead on productivity and growth than companies that focus primarily on automation." AI is driving a productivity boom – and "super-star" companies most able to use AI are pulling ahead significantly The report finds widening divergence between companies most and least exposed to AI. Companies operating in the most AI-exposed sectors recorded 34% productivity growth in 2025 relative to 2018, compared to 24% for the companies least able to use AI. Within this group, a pronounced "super-star" effect is emerging. The top 20% of the most AI-exposed companies achieved average labour productivity growth of 163% relative to 2018 – nearly five times higher than the most AI-exposed companies overall. Perhaps most surprisingly, headcount growth at the most AI-exposed companies is outpacing growth at the least AI-exposed companies – 52% relative to 36% in 2025, based on 2018 baseline levels. Average wage premium for AI skills hits 62% as AI job postings eclipse broader labour market growth As companies continue to boost productivity with AI, the average wage premium for workers with AI skills continued to surge higher – hitting 62%, up from 57% last year. The wage premium varies by industry: as high as 118% in some sectors, such as consumer markets, and 16% in government and public sector work. Jobs requiring specific AI skills – such as prompt engineering or machine learning – have also soared, growing roughly eight times (69%) as fast as the overall jobs market, at 9%. The number of AI jobs is almost twice as high as 2024, with growth in AI jobs outpacing all jobs since 2015.  Sectors including technology, media and telecommunications (11%) and professional services (6%) sectors saw the highest share in AI job growth – with health at the lowest end (less than 1%) Pete Brown, Global Workforce Leader, PwC, said: "The traditional relationship between experience and expertise is changing. AI is removing some of the routine work that once acted as an apprenticeship, while increasing demand for judgement, leadership and adaptability much earlier in careers. Organisations need to rethink how they develop talent if they want people to thrive in this new environment." Notes to Editors About PwC 2026 Global AI Jobs Barometer  PwC's 2026 AI Jobs Barometer analysed more than one billion jobs advertisements in 27 countries and territories. The Barometer combines large-scale labour market, company financial and occupational task data to understand how AI is reshaping jobs, skills, wages and productivity across the global economy. Additionally, this year's Barometer includes targeted analysis of entry-level roles, including how the skill requirements of early-career jobs are changing in highly AI-exposed occupations. You can read the full report and learn more about the methodology and key takeaways at www.pwc.com. About PwC  At PwC, we help clients build trust and reinvent so they can turn complexity into competitive advantage. We're a tech-forward, people-empowered network with more than 364,000 people in 136 countries and 137 territories. Across audit and assurance, tax and legal, deals and consulting, we help clients build, accelerate, and sustain momentum. Find out more at www.pwc.com. --  PRNewswire -- Source: PwC

AI reshapes global labour market into two distinct paths, rewarding human skills: PwC 2026 Global AI Jobs Barometer