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Malaysia News

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

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 .... read more

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 — 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, .... read more

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 — 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 .... read more

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

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 .... read more

IPOH, Jun 15 -- Strict enforcement action will be taken against any local citizen found renting out their business premises to Rohingya refugees to carry out illegal business activities in Perak. Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said this was because business licenses issued by the authorities to any individual cannot be transferred or used by other parties, whether local or foreign, including refugees.     "This matter is usually within the jurisdiction of local authorities (PBT) and will be implemented in accordance with the regulations and laws set out. "In certain circumstances, there are locals who take the easy way out by renting out their premises rather than running their own businesses," he said.  He said this at a press conference after attending the Perak State Government's 4th Series 2026 Customer Friendly Day Program at the Indera Mulia Stadium here today. Saarani said that if there is a violation, it is an offence against the license conditions and action can be taken, including the revocation of the license under the jurisdiction of the local authority. In another development, he said the state government has allocated RM1.374 million as incentives for 324 government retirees who ended their service between Jan 1 and Dec 31, 2025. He said the incentive provision involved retirees from state civil services, local government units and eligible state statutory bodies as a token of appreciation for their services and contributions throughout their service to the government. "All retirees will receive RM4,000 each in the form of Premium Savings Certificates (SSP)," he said. -- BERNAMA

Strict action against locals renting premises to Rohingya refugees – Saarani

IPOH, Jun 15 — Strict enforcement action will be taken against any local citizen found renting out their business premises to Rohingya refugees to carry out illegal business activities in .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, Jun 15 -- The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued a warning of thunderstorms, heavy rain and strong winds in nine states and the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur until 6pm this evening. MetMalaysia in a statement announced that the bad weather is predicted to occur throughout the states of Perlis, Kedah involving Langkawi, Kubang Pasu, Kota Setar and Pokok Sena, as well as Terengganu (Besut, Setiu, Kuala Nerus, Hulu Terengganu, Kuala Terengganu, Marang and Dungun).  Similar weather is also expected to hit Pahang (Raub, Bentong, Temerloh, Bera and Rompin), Selangor (Hulu Selangor, Gombak and Hulu Langat) and Negeri Sembilan (Jelebu, Kuala Pilah, Jempol and Tampin). For Johor, the areas expected to be affected are Segamat, Batu Pahat, Kluang, Mersing, Pontian, Kulai, Kota Tinggi and Johor Bahru. Meanwhile, in Sarawak, the warning covers Sri Aman (Sri Aman), Betong, Sarikei, Sibu (Sibu and Selangau), Mukah, Bintulu (Tatau and Bintulu), Miri (Subis and Marudi) and Limbang. In Sabah, bad weather is expected to occur in the Interior (Keningau and Tambunan), West Coast, Tawau (Tawau, Kunak and Lahad Datu) and Sandakan (Sandakan). -- BERNAMA

Thunderstorm warning, heavy rain in nine states and KL until 6pm this evening

KUALA LUMPUR, Jun 15 — The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued a warning of thunderstorms, heavy rain and strong winds in nine states and the Federal Territory of Kuala .... read more

SHAH ALAM, June 15 -- Selangor's financial position is still at a healthy level despite the global economic uncertainties following the supply crisis and fluctuations in world markets. Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the state government did not see the need to take emergency measures because revenue collection remains on a positive track. State revenue collection reached RM1.6 billion as of May against this year’s RM2.8 billion target, with the current collection trend showing positive development. "We have not yet pressed the 'panic button', but are monitoring weekly and monthly developments," he said at a press conference after launching the Selangor Resilience Strengthening Package Phase 1 at the Selangor State Secretary's Office (SUK) Building here today.   Amirudin added that Selangor also recorded a RM300 million surplus against total expenditure due to the state government's savings. Although this year's financial position is not as strong as last year's, the state government is confident of achieving the set revenue target, and it still has good reserve collection, he said. "At the same time, various efforts are being made, including through the land disposal process, changes to the actual conditions of land for industrial purposes and the influx of new investments into Selangor," he said. Amirudin said the real impact of global economic uncertainty is expected to be seen in the next few months, and the state government is taking a proactive approach to reduce its impact on the people and the economic sector.   -- BERNAMA

Global Supply Crisis: Selangor’s Financial Position Still Healthy — Amirudin

SHAH ALAM, June 15 — Selangor’s financial position is still at a healthy level despite the global economic uncertainties following the supply crisis and fluctuations in world markets. Selangor Menteri .... read more

JOHOR BAHRU, June 15 -- His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, granted an audience to Road Transport Department (JPJ) Director-General Aedy Fadly Ramli at Istana Pasir Pelangi here today. The audience session provided an opportunity for the JPJ Director-General to brief His Majesty on the latest developments within the Road Transport Department, including ongoing initiatives and the department’s strategic direction in enhancing public service delivery, improving compliance with road transport laws, and strengthening the nation’s road safety agenda. During the meeting, matters related to the department’s efforts to modernise its services and improve efficiency for the benefit of the rakyat were also discussed. In a statement, JPJ expressed its deepest appreciation to His Majesty for granting the audience and reaffirmed its unwavering loyalty to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the institution of the Malay Rulers as the pillar of the nation’s sovereignty and unity. The department also conveyed its prayers and well wishes for His Majesty, Her Majesty the Raja Permaisuri Agong, and members of the Royal Family, praying for their continued good health, well-being, and protection. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB JPJ

King Receives Audience with JPJ Director-General at Istana Pasir Pelangi

JOHOR BAHRU, June 15 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, granted an audience to Road Transport Department (JPJ) Director-General Aedy Fadly Ramli at Istana Pasir Pelangi here .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 15 -- Police busted an online gambling and mini-casino syndicate operating in a luxury residential unit in Bukit Jalil, here, through an Op Noda/Dadu raid last Saturday, with the arrest of 15 individuals including a Vietnamese woman. Cheras District Deputy Police Chief Supt Lim Chun How said the raid conducted Texas Holdemby the Criminal Investigation Division (D7) of the Cheras District Police Headquarters (IPD) on June 13 successfully arrested 12 local men, two local women and a Vietnamese woman, aged between 21 and 44. He said police also seized various gambling equipment including a 'Texas Holdem' casino table, hundreds of gambling chips and playing cards, cash totaling RM4,904, a laptop and a karaoke audio system. "In addition, four transparent plastic packets containing white powder suspected to be cocaine with an estimated weight of 10.11 grams were also found and seized." "The results of the review also found that one of the suspects is a wanted individual in connection with a drug case in Pulau Tikus, Penang," he said in a statement today. Chun How said the case is being investigated under Section 4(1)(b) of the Entertainment (Federal Territories) Act 1992, Section 4(1)(c) and Section 6(1) of the Open Gambling Houses Act 1953 as well as Section 39A(1) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. Meanwhile, in another development, police arrested a 21-year-old local couple in Sepang to assist in the investigation into the discovery of the body of a baby boy at the Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS), here. Chun How said that last Tuesday, the police received information from TBS management regarding the discovery of a newborn baby in a blue plastic bag in the women's toilet on Level 3 of the terminal. He said initial investigations found that the two unemployed suspects admitted to being involved in the incident. "Investigations found that the female suspect is believed to have given birth to the baby in the toilet before throwing it in the trash because she was afraid of being scolded by her family. The couple involved are now being remanded for four days starting last Saturday until tomorrow to assist in further investigations," he said. He said the case was being investigated under Section 318 of the Penal Code for concealing birth by secretly disposing of a body. -- BERNAMA

Op Noda: 15 arrested in mini-casino raid at luxury Bukit Jalil condominium

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 15 — Police busted an online gambling and mini-casino syndicate operating in a luxury residential unit in Bukit Jalil, here, through an Op Noda/Dadu raid last Saturday, .... read more

TAIPING, June 15 -- A Myanmar national in his 30s drowned while swimming with friends at a waterfall in Taiping on Monday morning. The Taiping Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) received an emergency call regarding the incident at Waterfall Up String Greeneries Memorial Park, Jalan Tupai, Taman Saga, at approximately 11.01am. Upon arrival, firefighters gathered information from the caller to confirm the victim's location. The victim was believed to have drowned while bathing at the waterfall with four friends. A search operation was immediately launched, with rescue personnel conducting a search of the waterfall's base. The victim was later located after surfacing in the water. Firefighters retrieved the victim and brought him to the riverbank using a stretcher. Medical personnel from the Ministry of Health (MOH) subsequently confirmed that the man had died at the scene. The operation was led by Senior Fire Officer PBK II Mazli A. Mutalib and involved eight personnel, supported by a Fire Rescue Tender (FRT) and an Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) vehicle. The victim's body was later handed over to the police for further investigation. JBPM Perak has reminded the public to prioritise safety when engaging in recreational activities at rivers, waterfalls and other high-risk locations to prevent similar tragedies. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB BOMBA PERAK OFFICIAL

Myanmar Man Drowns While Swimming at Taiping Waterfall

TAIPING, June 15 — A Myanmar national in his 30s drowned while swimming with friends at a waterfall in Taiping on Monday morning. The Taiping Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) .... read more

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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

BANGKOK, Jun 15 -- Tourism Malaysia welcomes the announcement by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) on the introduction of a new direct flight route between Bangkok and Kuching which is expected to be a catalyst for the growth of the Malaysian and Thai tourism sectors. Tourism Malaysia director in Bangkok Nurul Ain Mohammed Yunus said the route would not only strengthen regional connectivity, but was also expected to stimulate the growth of the tourism industry in Sarawak and Sabah.   He said if the service begins operating as scheduled this October, it has the potential to increase tourist arrivals and boost tourism-related economic activities in both countries. "Tourism Malaysia welcomes AirBorneo's initiative to operate this new route as Kuching is one of the destinations that is being actively promoted to the Thai market." "Although Kuching is still less well-known among Thai tourists compared to Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bahru, continuous promotional efforts have succeeded in creating new demand and strengthening existing interest in this destination, especially due to its unique cultural heritage and nature-based attractions," he told Bernama when contacted today. The Bangkok-Kuching service is also expected to expand access for Thai tourists to Sarawak in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (TMM2026), thus opening up wider opportunities to explore Borneo's diverse cultures, ecotourism products and UNESCO-recognized heritage sites. Last week, CAAT announced the results of discussions regarding flight schedule revisions, increased service capacity and the opening of new routes to Thailand during the 158th International Air Transport Association (IATA) Slots Conference (SC158) in Bangkok. According to CAAT, AirBorneo is among four new airlines that have received airport slot allocations to operate services between Kuching International Airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok. AirBorneo is expected to operate 14 flights per week on the Kuching–Suvarnabhumi route throughout the 2026/2027 winter schedule, which runs from 25 Oct 2026 to 27 March 2027. According to CAAT, other airlines that have also received new slot allocations for the season are Riyadh Air from Saudi Arabia, Virgin Atlantic from the United Kingdom and SkyUp Nistru from Moldova which will operate charter flight services. -- BERNAMA

New Bangkok-Kuching route boosts tourism in Malaysia and Thailand

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

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 15 -- Losses due to online fraud crimes in 2025 will reach RM2.97 billion, an increase of RM1.40 billion compared to RM1.57 billion the previous year, indicating an increasingly worrying trend in cybercrime. Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail said that of the total, non-existent investment fraud recorded the highest loss value of RM1.47 billion. He said a total of 66,204 cases of online fraud were recorded in 2025, an increase of 87 percent compared to 35,368 cases in 2024. "Phone scams remain a major threat with 28,388 cases reported in 2025," he said when speaking at the "Fight Scams: Two Teams, One Goal" Launching Ceremony here today. Also present were Public Bank Bhd Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Tan Sri Tay Ah Lek, Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department (JSJK) Director Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa and Bukit Aman department directors. Mohd Khalid said the recorded figures were not just statistics, but rather involved thousands of victims who lost their source of income and future as a result of being deceived by fraud syndicates. He said in the rapidly developing era of digitalization, fraud syndicates are constantly updating their tactics and modus operandi by exploiting technological advances and the sophistication of modern communication platforms. "Therefore, prevention, education and cultural awareness efforts in digital security are now urgent priorities and need to be continuously strengthened," he said. Mohd Khalid also welcomed the implementation of the PB Scam Rangers Program , which is the result of a strategic collaboration between JSJK and Public Bank Bhd, which is described as a progressive step in strengthening financial literacy and cyber security among the community. "Through an approach that focuses on public education, we are able to form a society that is more sensitive, knowledgeable and has high resilience against various forms of criminal manipulation and fraud," he said. -- BERNAMA

Online fraud losses reached RM2.97 billion last year – IGP

PUTRAJAYA, June 15 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today announced that the Bumiputera Agenda Steering Unit (TERAJU) will be placed under an agency within the Prime Minister’s Department (JPM) as part of efforts to streamline and strengthen the implementation of Bumiputera development initiatives, particularly those under the PuTERA35 framework. Anwar said the decision was agreed upon during the second meeting of the Bumiputera Economic Council (MEB) for 2026, which he chaired earlier today. He explained that the move is a continuation of the government’s institutional reform agenda aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of Bumiputera economic development programmes. The initiative follows the recent consolidation of Bumiputera-focused investment entities, including Pelaburan Hartanah Berhad (PHB) and Ekuiti Nasional Berhad (Ekuinas), under the Yayasan Pelaburan Bumiputra (YPB). “Centralising the monitoring and coordination of Bumiputera development programmes will ensure greater efficiency and effectiveness in implementing the aspirations outlined under PuTERA35,” he said in a statement. The Prime Minister revealed that the overall implementation of PuTERA35 has now exceeded 64.6 per cent, with 160 of the 493 planned programmes successfully carried out to date. “This achievement reflects the MADANI Government’s continued commitment to ensuring that the Bumiputera development agenda delivers tangible outcomes and meaningful benefits to the people,” he added. During the meeting, members were also informed that Government-Linked Investment Companies (GLICs) and Government-Linked Companies (GLCs) spent RM49.2 billion over the past year through procurement activities involving Bumiputera vendors and suppliers. In addition, GLICs have increased their investment commitment in Bumiputera businesses to RM2 billion in 2026, up from RM1.3 billion previously. The investments include support through the Bumiputera Transformation Run initiative, which aims to expand access to financing and investment opportunities for Bumiputera entrepreneurs at various stages of business growth. Anwar also announced that Khazanah Nasional Berhad will launch the Dana Ciptawan initiative with an allocation of RM200 million to support mid-tier Bumiputera companies, enabling them to strengthen their competitiveness, scale up operations and expand into broader markets. Meanwhile, the meeting reviewed resolutions from the Bumiputera Education Congress 2026 held on May 1. Anwar said several strategic proposals arising from the congress would undergo further study, including the proposed establishment of a National Tahfiz Council (Majlis Tahfiz Negara). He noted that the initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance education and human capital development among Bumiputeras in a more comprehensive and effective manner. “The government remains committed to ensuring that Bumiputera empowerment efforts continue to evolve in line with current challenges and future opportunities, while fostering inclusive and sustainable national development,” he said. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

TERAJU Moved Under Prime Minister’s Department to Strengthen Bumiputera Development Agenda – PM Anwar