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SUBANG: The National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) is ready to implement Operation Cloud Seeding (OPA) nationwide based on the state government's request in an effort to ensure that dam water levels remain stable following the current hot weather. ​NADMA Deputy Director-General (Operations) Datuk Abdul Gapar Abu Bakar said each application submitted through the State Disaster Management Committee (JPBN) will be thoroughly assessed before operations are carried out. "We will consider each application, for example if the state of Perlis submits an application and at the same time, Kedah is also facing the same issue, so we will implement it all at once. Usually, if there is an application, we will implement it," he told Bernama. He said this when participating in an OPA flight for the Melaka and Johor areas using a C130-Hercules aircraft belonging to the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), yesterday. The flight was also accompanied by the Deputy Director-General (Operations) of the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) Ambun Dindang and a Bernama representative, as part of the OPA involving four states, namely Perlis, Kedah, Perak and Johor which began last Monday. Abdul Gapar said that over the past three years, NADMA together with related agencies including MetMalaysia, RMAF, Public Works Department and Irrigation and Drainage Department have implemented 21 series of OPAs nationwide. Of this total, 11 operations were carried out in 2024, one operation in 2025 and nine operations this year involving several major dams, including the Bukit Merah Dam in Perak, Muda Dam (Kedah), Machap Dam (Johor) and Timah Tasoh Dam (Perlis). "Alhamdulillah, I can say that through every operation we carried out, rain was successfully produced and helped increase the dam water level back to normal," he said. For the next operation this year, he said NADMA received initial information about the need to implement OPA in Sabah and Sarawak following the fact that several areas in the regions began to experience dry weather. Abdul Gapar said the hot and dry weather conditions were expected to last until May or June, following the transition from the Northeast Monsoon which ended last March to the Southwest Monsoon. Meanwhile, Ambun said the success of OPA depends on three main atmospheric factors, namely the existence of towering cumulus clouds, weak winds from various directions and high levels of air humidity. "The most important thing is the existence of cumulus tower clouds because we will spray a salt solution into the cloud and hopefully it will become a rain cloud that can cause rainfall in the dam area," he said. He said OPA uses salt water spraying techniques prepared in four tanks with a total capacity of 6,000 litres and the operational process takes between eight and nine hours starting with the preparation of the solution, crew briefing, flight to the target location and spraying at an altitude of between 5,200 and 7,000 feet. He said the effects of water droplet formation in the clouds could be seen as early as half an hour to an hour after spraying and were expected to fall as rain within one to two hours with a success rate of 80 percent. However, Ambun admitted that the operation faced major challenges, especially in identifying suitable clouds during hot weather, as well as sudden changes in wind direction which could cause rain to stray from the target area. He also dispelled confusion regarding the use of dangerous chemicals in the operation by emphasizing that the operation merely imitates the natural process of condensation of salt molecules from the sea to land and only uses normal saline solution. "We just want to add the salt solution so that the rain will fall faster and in the target area. That's it. It is not dangerous because the salt we use is the salt we eat every day," he said.

NADMA committed to implementing cloud seeding to ensure safe dam levels

SUBANG: The National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) is ready to implement Operation Cloud Seeding (OPA) nationwide based on the state government’s request in an effort to ensure that dam water .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, 10 April -- Minister of Human Resources R. Ramanan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation with the Malay business community following a meeting with a delegation from the Dewan Perniagaan Melayu Malaysia (DPMM). The delegation was led by its President, Norsyahrin Hamidon, in what was described as a meaningful and constructive discussion. According to Ramanan, the meeting provided an important platform to exchange views on enhancing collaboration between the government and the Malay entrepreneurial community, particularly in expanding access to training facilities and strengthening strategic partnerships between ministries and business chambers. “The views, proposals, and aspirations shared by DPMM are greatly appreciated and will be taken into consideration in shaping more effective policies and initiatives,” he said. He also stressed that the commitment of the Kerajaan MADANI remains clear in ensuring that the empowerment of the local workforce continues to be strengthened in an inclusive, sustainable, and high-impact manner. He added that these ongoing efforts are crucial in supporting stronger economic growth and delivering broad-based benefits to the people. --Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris --Photo: FB Ramanan

Government Strengthens Strategic Cooperation with DPMM – Dato Seri Ramanan

KUALA LUMPUR, 10 April — Minister of Human Resources R. Ramanan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation with the Malay business community following a meeting with a delegation .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 -- Malaysia must continue to strengthen the concept of ASEAN Centrality and ASEAN Vision 2045 as catalysts for regional cooperation in facing increasingly challenging global geopolitical uncertainties, particularly conflicts in West Asia, according to experts. Cyber warfare expert and security and political analyst at the Centre for Media and Information Warfare Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Dr Noor Nirwandy Mat Noordin, said that although ASEAN was not a military-based alliance, it played a significant role in maintaining stability through continuous and principled diplomatic approaches. He said the approach was crucial to ensure ASEAN member states remained united and capable of acting collectively in addressing external pressures, including geopolitical conflicts and major power rivalries. “Malaysia is capable of steering this diplomatic approach to ensure alignment in thinking among ASEAN leaders, thereby making the ASEAN Centrality concept a fundamental bulwark against regional threats,” he told Bernama. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had previously stressed that Malaysia must adopt a prudent diplomatic approach in facing global economic uncertainties that affected supply chains and commodity prices. The Prime Minister said that while Malaysia maintained a firm stance on international issues, trade and economic relations with major world powers must be managed strategically, while maintaining good ties with various countries without compromising national interests. Elaborating further, Noor Nirwandy said Malaysia must maintain a neutral policy as the foundation of its international relations, while strengthening national defence in terms of mindset, assets and overall defence cohesion. “However, the most important aspect is diplomacy and ASEAN unity as the region’s main strength,” he said, stressing that strong diplomatic capabilities could prevent tensions from escalating into open conflict. He emphasised that efforts to strengthen national resilience should not only focus externally, but must also be supported by internal strength, including unity among the people and social cohesion. “A security-oriented mindset (awareness in managing security risks to protect the nation) will prevent unnecessary debates over trivial issues amid challenging geopolitical and economic uncertainties,” he said. According to Noor Nirwandy, the government must also empower society through a strategic communication plan based on patriotism and national unity, while producing more leaders who serve as agents of unity. “Concepts such as ‘Malaysia MADANI’ and unity of thought grounded in patriotism must be strengthened with the support of leaders and community figures to ensure the people are better prepared to face any unexpected challenges, including global economic crises or regional conflicts, without affecting national stability. “Malaysia currently has strong political resilience, but society must continue to support national development and build a security mindset. Politicians, whether from the government or opposition, must prioritise national security issues and geopolitical threats with a more unified approach,” he said. Noor Nirwandy added that Malaysia could remain a peaceful, stable and resilient nation amid global uncertainties through a combination of diplomatic strength, neutrality and strong national unity. Meanwhile, a lecturer at the Centre for Social Sciences Studies, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Prof Datuk Dr P. Sivamurugan, said Malaysia, as a small and medium-sized country, must act wisely and not rely solely on vocal assertiveness. He said key strategies included practising a neutral policy to ensure Malaysia remained balanced in its relations with major powers, while strengthening economic diversification efforts to reduce reliance on specific sectors and enhance resilience against external shocks. He added that strengthening food and energy security should be prioritised to ensure a stable and sustainable supply, while multilateral diplomacy must be reinforced with ASEAN as a collective safeguard in maintaining stability. “Domestic unity must also continue to be strengthened to avoid political divisions and ensure national stability is preserved. “Small nations do not prevail through strength, but through wisdom and balance,” he said, stressing the importance of a cautious yet effective strategic approach. While noting that Malaysia had strong political resilience based on a mature democratic system, functioning institutions, a diversified economy and experience in managing past crises, Sivamurugan said risks such as political and ethnic polarisation, internal instability that could be manipulated, and public political fatigue could undermine national resilience. -- BERNAMA

Malaysia Urged To Strengthen ASEAN Centrality Amid Global Uncertainties

KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 — Malaysia must continue to strengthen the concept of ASEAN Centrality and ASEAN Vision 2045 as catalysts for regional cooperation in facing increasingly challenging global geopolitical .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR,10 APRIL — Communications Minister Gobind Singh Deo today highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to advancing its digital transformation agenda following a courtesy call from Niklas Wiberg, Ambassador of Sweden to Malaysia, and Rafael Daerr, Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Malaysia. In a statement, Gobind said the meeting underscored the strong and longstanding ties Malaysia shares with Sweden and the EU, with discussions focusing on key areas of mutual interest including the rollout of 5G infrastructure and Malaysia’s growing role in the region’s artificial intelligence (AI) landscape. “We had a productive exchange on Malaysia’s progress in digital development, particularly in accelerating 5G deployment and positioning the country as a regional leader in AI,” he said. The discussions also touched on several policy developments, including Malaysia’s National AI Regulatory Framework, the proposed National AI Act, and the forthcoming AI Governance Bill. These initiatives are part of the government’s broader effort to ensure responsible, secure, and inclusive adoption of AI technologies. Gobind noted that collaboration with international partners remains crucial as Malaysia navigates the complexities of the digital age. “As we continue to strengthen our digital ecosystem, partnerships with countries like Sweden and institutions such as the EU will play an important role in driving innovation and delivering tangible benefits to the rakyat,” he added. The meeting reflects Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to foster strategic global partnerships while advancing its national digital agenda. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Photo: FB Gobind Singh Deo

Malaysia Strengthens Digital Cooperation with Sweden and EU

KUALA LUMPUR,10 APRIL — Communications Minister Gobind Singh Deo today highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to advancing its digital transformation agenda following a courtesy call from Niklas Wiberg, Ambassador of Sweden to .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR -- A forest fire broke out in a hilly area along Jalan PUJ 2/24, Taman Puncak Jalil, Seri Kembangan tonight, but the situation is now under control. Selangor Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Operations Division assistant director Ahmad Mukhlis Mukhtar said the department received an emergency call regarding the incident at 9.27 pm. He said a team of 18 personnel from the Seri Kembangan Fire and Rescue Station, assisted by members from the Bukit Jalil and Sri Petaling stations, was deployed to the location and arrived at 9.40 pm. According to Ahmad Mukhlis, the fire involved a hilly forest area estimated at two acres. “The fire has been successfully contained from spreading and extinguishing works are actively ongoing at the scene,” he said when contacted by Bernama tonight. He said four fire engines were deployed in the operation - three Fire Rescue Tender (FRT) units and one Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) unit. Ahmad Mukhlis also confirmed that no casualties were reported in the incident.

Forest Fire In Taman Puncak Jalil Under Control, No Casualties Reported – S’gor JBPM

KUALA LUMPUR — A forest fire broke out in a hilly area along Jalan PUJ 2/24, Taman Puncak Jalil, Seri Kembangan tonight, but the situation is now under control. Selangor .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR — Minister of Human Resources R. Ramanan attended the Media Prima Aidilfitri Open House event yesterday afternoon after completing his official duties at the ministry. YB Ramanan said he was pleased to accept the invitation from the Chairman of Media Prima Berhad, Syed Hussian Syed Junid, to join the lively and well-organised celebration. The event was further graced by the presence of Tengku Sulaiman Shah Al-Haj, along with Cabinet ministers and heads of various government departments and agencies. He extended his heartfelt congratulations to all Media Prima staff for successfully organising what he described as a prestigious event. YB Ramanan also expressed hope that Media Prima will continue to grow as a dynamic, credible, and authoritative media platform within the national communications landscape. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Photo: FB Ramanan Ramakrishnan

YB Datuk Seri Ramanan Attends Media Prima Aidilfitri Open House Celebration

KUALA LUMPUR — Minister of Human Resources R. Ramanan attended the Media Prima Aidilfitri Open House event yesterday afternoon after completing his official duties at the ministry. YB Ramanan said .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, 10 APRIL — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil today chaired a Strategic Coordination Meeting on Tackling Scam Issues at Angkasapuri, Kota Media, as authorities intensify efforts to combat the growing threat of online fraud. The meeting focused on rising trends in online scam risks and their financial impact, particularly involving online fraud and non-existent investment schemes, which have shown a significant increase annually since 2023. Participants agreed on several immediate measures, including enhanced data sharing, strengthening investigation and prosecution processes, and improving the legal framework. Efforts will also be made to reinforce staffing at the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) to boost response capabilities. According to figures presented at the meeting, online scam cases alone recorded losses exceeding RM134 million in 2026, while non-existent investment scams accounted for more than RM188 million in losses within just the first three months of the year. Fahmi urged Malaysians to remain vigilant against online scam tactics by verifying information through legitimate sources. He cautioned the public against being easily deceived by offers that appear too good to be true and stressed the importance of protecting oneself and family members. Victims or those suspecting scams are advised to immediately report to the NSRC via the hotline 997. The meeting was attended by Communications Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah, Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) Director at Bukit Aman Rusdi Mohd Isa, as well as senior officials from the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Home Affairs, Attorney General’s Chambers, Bank Negara Malaysia, National Security Council, National Cyber Security Agency, Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, Securities Commission Malaysia, National Financial Crime Prevention Centre, NSRC, representatives from the banking industry, and telecommunications companies. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Photo: FB Fahmi Fadzil

YB Fahmi Chairs Strategic Meeting as Online Scam Losses Surge Past RM300 Million

KUALA LUMPUR, 10 APRIL — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil today chaired a Strategic Coordination Meeting on Tackling Scam Issues at Angkasapuri, Kota Media, as authorities intensify efforts to combat the .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR — The MADANI Government has rolled out several new incentives as part of its continued commitment to safeguarding the welfare of industry players and ensuring the sustainability of Malaysia’s creative sector yesterday. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the initiatives include a collaboration between the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) and the Malaysian Department of Insolvency, aimed at reducing financial burdens and improving the well-being of creative industry practitioners. He added that a RM10 million Dana Citra fund has also been launched to support the development of content rooted in national identity, including feature films, documentaries, and short films. Fahmi stressed that the government’s message is clear — it will continue to support artists, creative practitioners, and all those involved in the creative and film industries. He noted that government assistance goes beyond funding and allocations, extending to legal support for individuals facing bankruptcy issues. Fahmi also expressed appreciation to Azalina Othman Said, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform), for her cooperation in making the initiative possible. He said the collaboration between FINAS and the Department of Insolvency, formalised in conjunction with the Hari Seniman 2026 celebration, is expected to help affected artists and industry players recover and continue producing creative works. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Photo: FB Fahmi Fadzil

Govt Introduces Incentives to Boost Creative Industry- YB Datuk Fahmi Fadzil

KUALA LUMPUR, 10 APRIL — The MADANI Government has rolled out several new incentives as part of its continued commitment to safeguarding the welfare of industry players and ensuring the .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, 10 APRIL — Malaysia and Bangladesh have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in labour cooperation and shared interests, following a courtesy call by a Bangladeshi delegation in Putrajaya today. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he received Bangladesh’s Minister of Labour and Employment, Ariful Haque Choudhury, along with the Prime Minister’s Advisor, Dr Mahdi Amin. According to Anwar, the meeting provided a platform to discuss various aspects of bilateral cooperation as well as issues of mutual concern between the two countries. During the meeting, he also reiterated his congratulations to Tarique Rahman on his appointment as Prime Minister of Bangladesh on February 17, and once again extended an invitation for him to visit Malaysia in the near future to further strengthen existing ties. On labour cooperation, Anwar stressed Malaysia’s commitment to continue safeguarding the welfare of hundreds of thousands of Bangladeshi workers in the country, particularly in the construction and manufacturing sectors. At the same time, he highlighted the need to reduce the cost of hiring foreign workers and urged the Bangladesh government to consider measures to lower these costs for the well-being of workers. “God willing, the Malaysia–Bangladesh friendship will continue to be strengthened, grounded in mutual trust and shared benefits,” he said. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Photo: FB Anwar Ibrahim

Malaysia–Bangladesh Strengthen Labour Cooperation and Bilateral Ties – PM Anwar Ibrahim

PUTRAJAYA, 10 APRIL — Malaysia and Bangladesh have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in labour cooperation and shared interests, following a courtesy call by a Bangladeshi delegation .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, 10 APRIL -- Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in disaster management following a high-level meeting in Putrajaya yesterday. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said he received a courtesy call from Brunei’s Minister of Home Affairs, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman, who is currently leading a delegation on a working visit to Malaysia. According to Zahid, the meeting provided a meaningful platform to enhance collaboration between Malaysia’s National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) and Brunei’s National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC). Discussions focused on expanding cooperation in expertise sharing, capacity building, and the implementation of joint disaster response exercises. He also highlighted Malaysia’s recent establishment of the National Disaster Management Council (MPBN), which was approved by the Cabinet to improve coordination at the national level. In addition, Zahid emphasised ongoing initiatives such as National Preparedness Month, aimed at fostering a culture of disaster readiness among the public. Malaysia, he said, remains committed to supporting Brunei’s efforts to obtain international recognition under the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG). This includes continued assistance from Malaysia’s Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART), particularly in enhancing urban search and rescue (USAR) capabilities. Both countries agreed to further strengthen joint training programmes and cross-border coordination, including the development of clearer standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure faster and more coordinated responses during disasters, especially in border areas. “Insya-Allah, this close cooperation will continue to grow stronger,” Zahid said, adding that the next NADMA-NDMC bilateral meeting is scheduled to take place in Langkawi next July. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Photo: FB Zahid Hamidi

Malaysia–Brunei Strengthen Disaster Management Cooperation- Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi

PUTRAJAYA, 10 APRIL — Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in disaster management following a high-level meeting in Putrajaya yesterday. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk .... read more