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Malaysia News

KUANTAN, May 23 -- Retirement has not stopped two former teachers in Pahang from continuing to serve the community, with both turning to part-time journalism to pursue their passion for the media industry. Speaking to Bernama, Salehudin Mat Rasad, said his interest in writing began during his school days when his news articles, poems and short stories were published in Utusan Pelajar, a student publication by Utusan Melayu at the time. Salehudin, 68, said he began working as a stringer for Utusan Malaysia Pahang on Dec 1, 1985 while still serving as a teacher, handling reporting and writing assignments during evenings, nights and weekends. “After retirement, journalism became my main focus because it allows me to remain active, contribute to society and spend my time productively. “The job also helps me stay mentally and physically active as it requires me to travel to various locations across Pahang,” said Salehudin, who served for 38 years as a teacher specialising in Bahasa Malaysia and also taught Geography and History. The Kampung Serambi, Pekan native said his teaching background had greatly helped in journalism as it exposed him to people from different walks of life, including students, parents and local communities. “As a teacher, I was used to listening, observing and understanding people’s emotions. Those skills are very useful in producing balanced reports that are close to the realities of society,” he said. Salehudin added that advances in technology had transformed journalism compared with the 1980s, when reports had to be dictated over the telephone or sent via fax. “At that time, public telephones were limited and only available in major towns. Today, technology allows news to be delivered almost instantly,” he said. Another retired teacher, Amir Hamzah Nordin, 66, said his interest in media began during secondary school before growing further throughout his teaching career. He said he used to publish a monthly school bulletin using A4 paper featuring school activities and students’ work, besides serving on the school magazine committee and as chief editor of “Suara Guru”, published by the Kesatuan Guru Melayu Malaysia Barat (KGMMB). Amir Hamzah said he began working as a stringer for Harian Watan in 1995 before joining Berita Harian from 1997 until October 2018, and later returned to active reporting with New Straits Times Press (NSTP) in April 2023. “Although I was active as a stringer while teaching, I never neglected my responsibilities as a teacher and received the Excellent Service Award three times,” he said. Among his most memorable assignments was covering a light aircraft crash in Sungai Tembeling in 1990, when he had to rely on another newspaper photographer to capture images at the scene. “The photographer threw the camera film from the crash site in the river to me on the riverbank. I then sought help from another reporter who was returning to Kuantan to send the film for processing,” he recalled. Amir Hamzah said working as a stringer after retirement has been fulfilling as it allows him to remain active while helping people through news reports. “There was one case involving a Malaysian who fell into a coma while travelling in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and needed financial aid. The news report indirectly helped raise public funds for him,” he said. -- BERNAMA

No Retirement From Service: Former Teachers Turn Stringers

KUANTAN, May 23 — Retirement has not stopped two former teachers in Pahang from continuing to serve the community, with both turning to part-time journalism to pursue their passion for .... read more

SOOK, May 22 -- About 1,000 trees of various species were planted today in a symbolic effort to strengthen the ecosystem, stabilise the climate and safeguard the sustainability of the country’s economy. Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said the Sook Lake Forest Reserve in Pensiangan was selected as the venue for the tree-planting programme held in conjunction with the National-level International Day of Forests 2026 celebration. He said the three-day programme, which runs until Sunday, is being carried out in collaboration with local leaders, corporate partners, and participation from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Sook and SMK TrusMadi students. “I urge the community, especially the younger generation, to take the opportunity to become agents of change by making tree planting a continuous practice and a way of life for a sustainable future,” he said in a post on his official Facebook page today. The Pensiangan member of Parliament said this year’s celebration, themed ‘Forests and Economies’, aims to highlight green resources as a highly valuable alternative economic source for communities, particularly in rural areas, whether through ecotourism, sustainable forest products or sustainable agriculture. He said Sabah is fortunate to be among the regions with the highest forest cover in Malaysia, and all parties are urged to continue fostering a love for the environment for future sustainability. “Our forests, our treasure, our shared responsibility,” he added. -- BERNAMA

1,000 Trees Planted In Sook To Mark International Day Of Forests Celebration

SOOK, May 22 — About 1,000 trees of various species were planted today in a symbolic effort to strengthen the ecosystem, stabilise the climate and safeguard the sustainability of the .... read more

MACC To File Appeal After Bid To Freeze RM548 Mln Is Rejected

KUALA LUMPUR, May 22 — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) will file a notice of appeal against the Kuala Lumpur High Court’s decision today, which dismissed the prosecution’s application for .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, May 22 -- The Special Task Force on Agency Reform (STAR) has agreed to prioritise local think tanks and consultants in advisory roles to the government, while accelerating digitalisation initiatives in public services said Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar. In a Facebook post today, he said the decision was reached during STAR’s fifth meeting this year, which he chaired this morning He said the meeting focused on two key areas - the implementation of small-scale projects benefiting the public, including the maintenance of schools, public toilets and community facilities, as well as issues related to the cost of living and job opportunities. “Amid global economic uncertainty, STAR is seeking solutions to strengthen the implementation of government strategies,” he said. In a separate Facebook post, Shamsul Azri said he also met industry representatives and chambers of commerce through the Special Task Force to Facilitate Business (PEMUDAH) after the STAR meeting. He said discussions centred on streamlining tribunal mechanisms to resolve technical disputes in the construction industry, while reducing regulatory burdens to improve productivity and competitiveness. “In efforts to drive the national economy, I believe the government and industry must continue working closely and strengthening one another,” he said. -- BERNAMA

STAR To Prioritise Local Advisers, Speed Up Digitalisation – Shamsul Azri

PUTRAJAYA, May 22 — The Special Task Force on Agency Reform (STAR) has agreed to prioritise local think tanks and consultants in advisory roles to the government, while accelerating digitalisation .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 22 -- Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today shared that he had the opportunity to speak and exchange greetings with C. Joseph Vijay, once again extends his congratulations on the immense responsibility entrusted to him in serving the people of Tamil Nadu. During the conversation, Anwar also informed the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister of his upcoming visit to India in September to attend the BRICS Summit and hold discussions with Narendra Modi. He added that, should time permit, he hopes to make a brief visit to Tamil Nadu as part of the trip. Prime Minister Anwar expressed his hope that Chief Minister Vijay will continue to be blessed with strength and wisdom to lead and administer the state effectively for the well-being of the people and a prosperous future for Tamil Nadu. -- MINUTESMY --SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

PM Anwar Congratulates Tamil Nadu CM C. Joseph Vijay, Eyes Visit During India Trip for BRICS Summit

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 22 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today shared that he had the opportunity to speak and exchange greetings with C. Joseph Vijay, once again extends his congratulations .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 22 -- Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today expressed gratitude for the opportunity to perform Friday prayers at Al-Muttaqin Mosque in Wangsa Melawati alongside members of the local congregation and community on the first Friday of the month of Zulhijjah. In a statement, Anwar said today’s sermon, titled “Arafah the Day of Resurrection”, highlighted the significance of Arafah Day on 9 Zulhijjah, which will be observed soon by Muslims performing the haj pilgrimage. He said the massive gathering during Arafah symbolises not only the unity of Muslims worldwide, but also serves as a reminder for the ummah to strengthen values, character and resilience in facing present-day challenges. Anwar also prayed for all Malaysian haj pilgrims and guests of Allah SWT, known as Duyufur Rahman, to be blessed with good health, remain focused on their worship, and be granted an accepted haj by Allah SWT. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

PM Anwar Ibrahim Performs Friday Prayers at Al-Muttaqin Mosque, Prays for Pilgrims Ahead of Arafah Day

KUALA LUMPUR, May 22 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today expressed gratitude for the opportunity to perform Friday prayers at Al-Muttaqin Mosque in Wangsa Melawati alongside members of the local .... read more

SEREMBAN, May 22 -- The dissolution of the Johor State Legislative Assembly to pave the way for a state election is the absolute prerogative of the King, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, according to Barisan Nasional (BN) deputy chairman Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. He said the party was confident that Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi would advise Sultan Ibrahim, who is the Sultan of Johor, on the appropriate timing for the state election. “It could be soon, it could be later, that depends on the Menteri Besar’s discretion. So far, however, there have been no official discussions at the party headquarters or central leadership level. “I am confident that once the Menteri Besar receives the green light or royal consent, he will consult the central leadership so that preparations for the state election can be planned together,” he told reporters after officiating the SMK Seri Sendayan Athletics Championship, here today. On May 16, Onn Hafiz, who is also Johor BN chairman, announced that the coalition would contest all 56 state seats in the upcoming state election. In the 2022 state polls, BN won 40 seats, while Pakatan Harapan secured 12, Perikatan Nasional three and MUDA one. Meanwhile, the UMNO deputy president also reminded all parties to handle any political turmoil maturely and prudently to ensure that the well-being of the people continues to be preserved. “We do not want the people to feel uneasy. All decisions or actions must be done properly because our purpose as a government is to help the people, not to burden them,” he said. In another development, Mohamad, who is also Rembau MP and Rantau assemblyman, said the government had approved the construction of two new schools in Bandar Sri Sendayan to address overcrowding among students in the area. He said the projects, involving a secondary and primary school, had entered the tender stage with a total allocation of about RM135 million. -- BERNAMA

Dissolution Of Johor State Assembly Absolute Prerogative Of Sultan Ibrahim – Mohamad Hasan

SEREMBAN, May 22 — The dissolution of the Johor State Legislative Assembly to pave the way for a state election is the absolute prerogative of the King, His Majesty Sultan .... read more

JOHOR BAHRU, May 22 -- Police have arrested a man to assist investigations into a molestation case involving a school student in the Seri Alam area here, which has gone viral on social media since yesterday. Johor Police acting chief DCP Hoo Chuan Huat said the 28-year-old suspect was picked up at about 10.30 pm yesterday. He said the arrest was made following a report lodged by the victim’s mother, a 37-year-old local woman, at 9 pm the same day. “The victim’s mother reported that the molestation incident had actually taken place in 2025 in the Seri Alam area,” he said in a statement here today. Hoo said a six-day remand order from today under Section 117 of the Criminal Procedure Code had been granted by the Johor Bahru Magistrates’ Court to facilitate further investigations. The suspect tested negative for drugs and he had no prior criminal record, he said, adding that the case was being investigated under Section 14(a) of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017. Earlier, police detected a viral post uploaded by Facebook account holder ‘Mohd Fadli Salleh’ relating to the incident. Meanwhile, the Johor Education Department, in a separate statement, said it hoped police would conduct a professional and thorough investigation so that appropriate legal action can be taken if the suspect is found guilty. “At the same time, the Johor Education Department is also working with the Social Welfare Department to ensure the victim is protected and her welfare is safeguarded,” it said. It added that members of the public facing similar cases are also advised to lodge police reports and not withdraw them so that investigations and firm action can be taken by the authorities. -- BERNAMA

Police Arrest Man Suspected Of Molesting School Student In Seri Alam

JOHOR BAHRU, May 22 — Police have arrested a man to assist investigations into a molestation case involving a school student in the Seri Alam area here, which has gone .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 22 -- Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo today shared that he had a productive meeting with the Executive Director of LBS Bina Group Berhad alongside investors from China to discuss potential data centre investment opportunities in Malaysia. The discussion also involved Tenaga Hijau Ventures Sdn Bhd and Trina Solar, reflecting growing international confidence in Malaysia as a strategic hub for sustainable digital infrastructure and future-ready data centre development. According to Gobind, the meeting highlighted the importance of strengthening collaboration between government agencies, industry players and foreign investors in supporting Malaysia’s digital transformation agenda. He noted that the increasing demand for digital services and cloud infrastructure has positioned the country as an attractive destination for data centre investments in the region. He added that data centres play a crucial role as a catalyst for Malaysia’s digitalisation efforts, driving innovation, economic growth and technology adoption across industries. With the right investments and strategic partnerships, Malaysia can continue to develop infrastructure that not only powers businesses and industries, but also delivers long-term benefits to the rakyat. Gobind also stressed the importance of ensuring that future developments focus on sustainability and green energy solutions, in line with the nation’s aspirations towards a more environmentally responsible digital economy. The involvement of renewable energy and solar technology companies in the discussions further demonstrates the growing emphasis on sustainable infrastructure in the data centre sector. Malaysia has increasingly become a preferred destination for technology and digital infrastructure investments due to its strategic location, strong connectivity, skilled workforce and supportive government policies aimed at accelerating the digital economy.

YB Gobind Singh Deo Discusses Data Centre Investments with China Investors and Industry Players

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 22 — Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo today shared that he had a productive meeting with the Executive Director of LBS Bina Group Berhad alongside investors from .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 22 -- Families of inmates at all prison institutions, including Moral Rehabilitation Centres, Special Rehabilitation Centres, Special Detention Facilities and Henry Gurney Schools, are allowed to visit them for the Aidiladha celebration on the third and fourth days of the festive period. The Prisons Department, in a statement, said that visiting hours have been set from 8.15 am to 4.15 pm, on May 29 and 30, with priority given to Muslim inmates. “Visitors are not allowed to bring food and drinks for inmates. Instead, these may be purchased at the prison canteen,” it said. In addition, visitors are discouraged from giving money to inmates as all basic necessities have been provided, except for certain matters such as examination fee payments, which require them to obtain an official PPT 28 receipt from the prison authorities as proof of payment. It added that visitors are subject to the Prison Act and Prison Regulations, which allow prison authorities to conduct physical inspections upon entry to and exit from the institutions. Meanwhile, for families unable to visit the prisons in person, online meetings will also be made available for three days from May 30 to June 1. Families seeking further information may contact the relevant institutions. -- BERNAMA

Prisons Dept Allows Family Visits In Conjunction With Aidiladha On May 29-30

KUALA LUMPUR, May 22 — Families of inmates at all prison institutions, including Moral Rehabilitation Centres, Special Rehabilitation Centres, Special Detention Facilities and Henry Gurney Schools, are allowed to visit .... read more

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