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MOSCOW, May 7 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar arrived in Moscow yesterday at the special invitation of the Government of the Russian Federation as a guest of honour ahead of the Victory Day Parade celebration on May 9. His Majesty’s private aircraft landed safely at Vnukovo-2 International Airport at 4.20 pm local time. Upon arrival, Sultan Ibrahim was received by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Andrey Rudenko, and Director-General of the Protocol Department of the Russian Federation, Bogdashev Igor Viktorovich. Also present to welcome His Majesty was Malaysia’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation, Dato’ Cheong Loon Lai. The special invitation extended by Vladimir Putin reflects the high regard and close diplomatic ties between Malaysia and Russia. Last year, Sultan Ibrahim created history as the first Malaysian Head of State to undertake a State Visit to the Russian Federation since diplomatic relations between the two countries were established in 1967. -- MINUTESMY -- CREDIT: FB SULTAN IBRAHIM SULTAN ISKANDAR

Sultan Ibrahim Arrives in Moscow Ahead of Victory Day Parade

MOSCOW, May 7 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar arrived in Moscow yesterday at the special invitation of the Government of the Russian Federation as a guest of honour .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 -- More than 200 media practitioners, including academics, public relations practitioners, as well as students from public and private universities, are gathering in the capital today to attend the HAWANA 2026 Media Forum, which focuses on the sustainability challenges of the media industry in the era of digitalisation and artificial intelligence (AI). The event, organised by the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama), also brings together heads of media organisations, including those from Sabah and Sarawak, representatives of foreign media agencies in Malaysia, as well as various stakeholders in the national media landscape. The forum will be officiated by Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching. Malaysian media figures, namely Star Media Group Berhad Chief Content Officer Datin Esther Ng; Media Prima Berhad Deputy Group Managing Editor (News and Current Affairs) Farrah Naz Abd Karim; and Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) Director-General of Broadcasting Ashwad Ismail, will share their views in the first session titled “Sustaining Media in Times of Crisis: Challenges and Revenue Realities”. The second session, titled “How Journalists Navigate the Evolving Media Landscape”, will feature Inspirer Extraordinaire Datuk Suhaimi Sulaiman; Sin Chew Media Corporation Berhad Group Editor-in-Chief Datuk Kuik Cheng Kang; Kuching Division Journalists Association President Ronnie Teo Teck Wei; and Sabah Journalists Association President Mariah Doksil as panellists. Meanwhile, the third session titled “Shaping the Future of Malaysian Media in the Digital and AI Era” will feature Free Malaysia Today Managing Director Azeem Abu Bakar; Cloud Solution Architect at Huawei Malaysia Cheah Chern Eu; as well as digital transformation and AI expert Charles Gregory. For the first time, the HAWANA Media Forum is being held as a one-day event to encourage more in-depth discussions and meaningful exchange of ideas. The HAWANA 2026 Media Forum is held in conjunction with the National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) 2026 celebration on June 20. -- BERNAMA

HAWANA 2026 Forum Gathers Media Practitioners To Address Digital Era Challenges

KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 — More than 200 media practitioners, including academics, public relations practitioners, as well as students from public and private universities, are gathering in the capital today .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, May 7 (Bernama) -- Malaysia and India are committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation in biodiversity conservation, rare earth elements (REE), and green technology through various strategic initiatives discussed during a courtesy call by the Indian delegation to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES). The Indian delegation, led by India’s High Commissioner to Malaysia B. N. Reddy, was hosted by NRES deputy minister Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh. NRES, in a statement today, said that among the main discussion points was Malaysia’s active participation as a founding member of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA). According to the ministry, the international commitment is in line with Malaysia’s domestic success in achieving a 100 per cent completion rate for the Minister’s 100-Day Key Performance Indicators (KPI) in biodiversity enforcement. “Through Khazanah Integrated Operations (OBK), Malaysia has demonstrated its firm commitment to protecting wildlife, with seizures valued at RM413.1 million recorded since 2019. Malaysia is scheduled to participate in the 1st IBCA Summit in New Delhi on June 1, 2026, to finalise the Delhi Declaration on the conservation of big cat species, including the Malayan tiger,” it said. In the natural resources sector, NRES said Malaysia had also expressed interest in exploring strategic collaboration in the REE industry with Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL). Malaysia hopes to learn from India’s operational models and midstream processing technology to ensure the country’s REE industry can sustainably generate high added value. “This cooperation is expected to include aspects of technology transfer and the development of local expert capacity,” the ministry said. In addition, NRES said Malaysia had also invited the Indian delegation to leverage the platform of the International Greentech & Eco Products Exhibition & Conference Malaysia (IGEM), scheduled to take place from Oct 7 to 9 this year. “As the largest green technology hub in Southeast Asia, IGEM is the best platform for both countries to drive investment in the circular economy and low-carbon,” it said. According to NRES, the meeting also touched on preparations for collaboration with the National Biodiversity Authority regarding the Access and Benefit-Sharing (ABS) framework, as well as developments involving the National Climate Change Bill, which is expected to be tabled in Parliament this June. NRES said Malaysia and India remain committed to ensuring resilient mineral supply chains and inclusive environmental conservation efforts for shared prosperity in the region. -- BERNAMA

Malaysia, India Strengthen REE And Biodiversity Conservation Cooperation

PUTRAJAYA, May 7 (Bernama) — Malaysia and India are committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation in biodiversity conservation, rare earth elements (REE), and green technology through various strategic initiatives discussed during .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 -- Malaysia has three main advantages that can ensure the country continues to be resilient and competitive, said Minister of Development of Entrepreneurs and Cooperatives Steven Sim Chee Keong yesterday. He said these advantages include political stability and a conducive climate, a strategic geographical position and the strength of the human factor among the country's diverse society. "In a world hit by various crises, many things are beyond our control but Malaysia has three main ingredients that allow us to continue to succeed," he said when speaking at the Bisnes Sinar Harian Awards (BISA 2026) here organised by Sinar Harian. Also present were Karangkraf Chairman Firdaus Hussamuddin and Sinar Karangkraf Chief Executive Officer Farah Hussamuddin. Sim also said that the country's political stability and strong leadership are the foundation for investor confidence and economic growth, in addition to Malaysia's strategic geopolitical and geoeconomic position, which also provides advantages in strengthening international trade and investment relations. "The third factor is our diverse people, who are fluent in various languages ​​and understand various cultures around the world," he said. He also described the organisation of the awards by the Malay-language newspaper, Sinar Harian, as a significant step in recognising the capabilities of local entrepreneurs. "There are many business awards organised by Chinese-language newspapers that have seen many Malay entrepreneurs succeed... today, I am very proud that the Malay-language newspaper has also taken the initiative to recognise the capabilities of local entrepreneurs, especially Malay entrepreneurs in their respective sectors," he said. At the ceremony, a total of 37 awards were presented, including the Global Logistics & Maritime Leader Award, the Entrepreneur Development Leader Award and the Jury's Choice Award, and Andalusia Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd won the BISA 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award. Meanwhile, Firdaus said BISA 2026 is a tribute to local entrepreneurs who have high spirit and resilience in facing the current economic challenges. "Sinar Harian has stood for two decades as a consistent voice bringing the issues, pulse and aspirations of the people including entrepreneurs across the country," he said. -- BERNAMA

Malaysia Remains Resilient in the Face of Global Crisis – Steven Sim

KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 — Malaysia has three main advantages that can ensure the country continues to be resilient and competitive, said Minister of Development of Entrepreneurs and Cooperatives Steven .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 6 -- An investigating officer informed the Sessions Court today that the absence of a money trail has not compromised his investigation into the Penang undersea tunnel corruption case involving Lim Guan Eng. Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Investigation Division senior officer Zulhilmi Ramli explained that the RM3.3 million allegedly given to the former Penang Chief Minister was delivered in cash in stages, and was never banked or transferred into his account, thereby leaving no trace. "However, this did not affect my investigation, as it is supported by the testimony of the key witness, Datuk Zarul Ahmad Mohd Zulkifli, a former director of Consortium Zenith Construction Sdn Bhd (CZCSB). “It is further corroborated by other witnesses, namely (Datuk Seri) G Gnanaraja (a businessman), Azli Adam (former senior vice president of Finance and Corporate Services at Consortium Zenith Beijing Urban Construction Group Sdn Bhd), and Ibrahim Sahari (a former director of CZCSB). "All of them confirmed that cash withdrawals took place and that meetings occurred between Zarul Ahmad and the accused at the latter's office. My investigation also relies on documents I obtained, which indicate that meetings were held inside a car involving Zarul Ahmad, Gnanaraja and the accused. “This evidence is further reinforced by forensic reports, including photographs taken inside the car and at the house," he said. The 38th prosecution witness was testifying during examination-in-chief by deputy public prosecutor Datuk Wan Shaharuddin Wan Ladin. Wan Shaharuddin: Why did the MACC still select Gnanaraja as a witness despite defence claims of contradictions between his statement and Zarul Ahmad's? Zulhilmi: I considered Gnanaraja's statement regarding the RM2 million payment to the accused, which is supported by Zarul Ahmad's testimony. In his statement at the end of 2019, Zarul Ahmad admitted and confirmed that four bags, each containing RM1 million, were given to Gnanaraja. “I also took into account Gnanaraja's statement recorded around mid-2020, which was consistent. Gnanaraja admitted to receiving four bags of RM1 million each, and that the total amount received from Zarul Ahmad was RM4 million. Under the first charge, Lim, 65, is accused of abusing his position as Penang chief minister to receive RM3.3 million in return for helping a company owned by businessman Zarul Ahmad secure the Penang Major Roads and Tunnel Construction Project, valued at approximately RM6.34 billion. The alleged offence took place at the Penang Chief Minister's Office between January 2011 and August 2017. The second charge states that the Bagan MP solicited a 10 per cent cut out of the project’s future profits from Zarul Ahmad for assisting his company in securing the same project. The alleged offence occurred near The Gardens Hotel, Lingkaran Syed Putra, Mid Valley City, Kuala Lumpur, between 12.30 am and 2.00 am in March 2011. Additionally, Lim faces two charges of disposing of a couple of state-owned lots of land in Penang, valued at RM208.8 million, to a developer linked to the undersea tunnel project. These offences were allegedly committed at the Penang Land and Mines Office, Komtar, on Feb 17, 2015, and March 22, 2017. The trial before Judge Azura Alwi resumes on May 14. -- BERNAMA

Absence Of Money Trail Does Not Compromise Corruption Case Against Lim Guan Eng, Court Hears

KUALA LUMPUR, May 6 — An investigating officer informed the Sessions Court today that the absence of a money trail has not compromised his investigation into the Penang undersea tunnel .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, May 6 -- Former Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli said investigations into him have so far centred on procedural matters rather than financial transactions in relation to the RM1.1 billion investment linked to a semiconductor deal between the Ministry of Economy and a UK-based company, Arm Holdings. Speaking to reporters outside the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) headquarters today, he said no questions during his statement recording touched on money flows or payments, contrary to earlier claims. “There were no questions on financial transactions. As I’ve said, the questions so far have been about joint venture decisions and procedures,” he said. Rafizi arrived at the MACC headquarters at 1.50 pm to continue giving his statement for a third day, assisting investigations into alleged abuse of power and misappropriation linked to the semiconductor deal. The MACC opened its investigation on Feb 16 following complaints from several non-governmental organisations alleging the deal was rushed and skewed, potentially resulting in financial implications for the government. -- BERNAMA

Probe Focuses On Procedures, Not Finances – Rafizi

PUTRAJAYA, May 6 — Former Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli said investigations into him have so far centred on procedural matters rather than financial transactions in relation to the .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 6 -- The National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) 2026 celebration, set for June 20 in Penang, will adopt the theme ‘Media Integrity Strengthens Credibility’ to enhance the role of media practitioners in national development. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the main event, held annually to honour media practitioners, will be graced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the Penang International Convention and Exhibition Centre. He said the theme also aligns with the government’s efforts to enhance the quality of information dissemination and public trust in media institutions. “The official HAWANA 2026 logo features the iconic Penang Bridge, symbolising the host state’s rich history, heritage and modernity. “Overall, the logo reflects HAWANA’s aspiration as a unifying platform for the media fraternity and society in supporting inclusive and sustainable national development,” he said at a weekly press conference in Angkasapuri today. Also present were Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching, ministry secretary-general Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah, Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) chief executive officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin and deputy editor-in-chief of news service Mohd Shukri Ishak, as well as Radio Televisyen Malaysia director-general Ashwad Ismail. Fahmi, who is also the MADANI Government spokesperson, said activities for this year’s HAWANA celebration will begin with the Media Forum in Kuala Lumpur tomorrow to discuss current industry challenges. Highlights include the HAWANA-DBP Pantun Festival with Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka on May 9, a Strategic Partners Engagement (June 4), the HAWANA Fun Walk (June 14), Mai RIUH@HAWANA (June 19-21), HAWANA Sports Carnival (July to October) and the HAWANA Campus Roadshow (July to October). He said that a range of activities has been planned around the main event in Penang to ensure broad participation from local and international media practitioners. Officially celebrated annually on May 29, HAWANA is the largest gathering of Malaysian journalists, aimed at recognising the media’s role in shaping public opinion and serving as a bridge between the people and the government. This year marks the sixth edition of the event, following last year’s celebration in Kuala Lumpur. -- BERNAMA

‘Media Integrity Strengthens Credibility’ Theme Of HAWANA 2026 Celebration In Penang

KUALA LUMPUR, May 6 — The National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) 2026 celebration, set for June 20 in Penang, will adopt the theme ‘Media Integrity Strengthens Credibility’ to enhance the role .... read more

KUANTAN: The country loses an average of RM700 million each year due to cases of electricity theft for bitcoin mining activities, said Deputy Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad. He said efforts to combat such activities would continue and be intensified nationwide to curb losses, as well as provide justice to consumers who pay their bills legally. Abdul Rahman said illegal bitcoin mining activities were found to be taking place not only in business premises but also in residential areas. "I want to ask homeowners to be aware of who is renting the house because if action is taken, they (homeowners) will be responsible. "To avoid this, I advise them to also change the Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) bill account to the tenant's name so that actions related to electricity usage and any errors are not borne by the owner," he told reporters after "Ops Steal" here yesterday. In the integrated operation involving the Energy Commission (ST) and TNB, two residences were inspected and it is believed that a case of electricity theft involving bitcoin mining activities occurred with losses estimated at RM34,000 per month and could reach more than RM200,000 within six months. Both cases are being investigated under Section 37(3) of the Electricity Supply Act 1990. Abdul Rahman said that stealing electricity for the activities involved was very dangerous and posed a risk of fire. "Connecting cables that do not comply with the safety specifications set by ST can cause a risk of electric shock," he said. Apart from that, the use of high-powered mining machines operated at a high rate of speed can also cause short circuits and fires. At the same time, he advised the public to also play a role by reporting any suspicious activities related to electricity usage to the authorities. -- BERNAMA

Electricity theft for bitcoin mining costs the country RM700 million a year – Abdul Rahman

KUANTAN: The country loses an average of RM700 million each year due to cases of electricity theft for bitcoin mining activities, said Deputy Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR: The country's legal framework relating to issues of religion, race and royal institutions (3Rs) requires more dynamic improvements to address the increasingly complex trend of social media abuse. Head of the Political Bureau of the People's Social Media Movement Secretariat (SekPur), Shahbudin Embon, said the existing approach needed to be refined to ensure that the justice system was not only punitive, but also capable of providing meaningful lessons to society. He said the provisions under the Sedition Act 1948 with a maximum fine of RM5,000 currently appear to be out of line with the impact of damage that can be caused by posts that go viral on social media. "This step to strengthen the law, including considering mandatory prison sentences for serious cases involving the sovereignty of the monarchy, is necessary to reflect the importance of preserving national harmony," he said at a press conference here yesterday. Shahbudin suggested that the scope of legal protection be reviewed to also include the country's main leadership institutions, including the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, to curb the culture of excessive provocation solely for the sake of digital content. He also suggested closer cooperation between the authorities and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) in monitoring the activities of fake accounts which are often the cause of racial and religious tension. "Taking lessons from legal practices in neighboring countries such as Thailand and Indonesia, the strictness of the law there has proven to be an important instrument in preserving the dignity of the highest institutions of their respective countries," he said. Based on existing legal provisions, individuals convicted of incitement through speech or publication for the first time can be sentenced to a maximum fine of RM5,000, and imprisonment for up to three years, or both. The provision includes actions through various platforms as an effort to curb incitement elements that threaten public order. -- BERNAMA

3R: Improve the legal system to face the challenges of social media – SekPur

KUALA LUMPUR: The country’s legal framework relating to issues of religion, race and royal institutions (3Rs) requires more dynamic improvements to address the increasingly complex trend of social media abuse. .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR: The newly appointed Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Malaysia, who began working in the country in January, recently shared his initial views and priorities in an exclusive interview with the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama). In the interview, Osamah Dakhdel Al Ahmadi commented on the continued progress of Malaysia-Saudi Arabia relations which is strengthened by strong political will as well as growing economic cooperation, particularly in line with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. He reaffirmed the Saudi Arabian government's continued commitment to improving services to pilgrims, including those from Malaysia, in addition to outlining the country's diplomatic approach to regional developments by emphasizing stability, restraint and dialogue. Personally, he also expressed his appreciation for Malaysia's culinary diversity, especially beef jerky which is one of his favorite dishes. Below is the full transcript of the interview with Bernama. Malaysia-Saudi Arabia economic relations: How do you assess the current business and investment relations between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia? Are there any new sectors or opportunities that should be explored by both sides? Saudi Arabia-Malaysia relations are witnessing rapid substantive development, reflecting the determination of the leadership of both countries to elevate relations to a broader and stronger level. The most recent exchange of official visits, the visit of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in 2023-2024 and the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim to Saudi Arabia in November 2025, has contributed to creating stronger and deeper relations. During the visit, emphasis was placed on strengthening cooperation in priority sectors by leveraging investment opportunities offered through Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and Malaysia's Vision MADANI, building on the achievements of the Saudi-Malaysia Coordination Council (SMCC), as well as developing partnerships in various areas that serve the interests of both countries. The two brotherly countries enjoy strong relations and growing political and economic ties, and are committed to continuing this positive path that reflects a shared desire to expand areas of cooperation, enhance mutual trust, and propel relations to broader horizons in the coming phase. Economic cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Malaysia offers broad and growing opportunities, particularly through the conducive environment for quality projects and value-added investments provided by Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. There is growing interest in developing partnerships in the areas of investment, renewable energy, industry, construction, tourism, logistics and modern technology - sectors in which companies in both countries have their own expertise and which represent priorities in the economic transformation process. This ambition is not limited to increasing the volume of trade exchanges, but also includes building sustainable partnerships based on the transfer of expertise, stimulating joint investments and developing joint projects that benefit both countries. Hajj Preparations: With the Hajj season approaching, how are preparations progressing this year? What assurances can you offer pilgrims, especially regarding safety, logistics and the overall experience? Serving pilgrims is a deep-rooted mission and a primary responsibility of Saudi Arabia, which receives constant attention from its leadership. It is not just a seasonal organizational aspect, but rather an integral part of a comprehensive vision that aims to facilitate the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage and improve the quality of services provided to them at every stage. Saudi Arabia continues to improve services, organizational infrastructure and technology to provide a more convenient, reassuring and comfortable environment for pilgrims from all over the world, including Malaysia. Saudi Arabia launched the "Makkah Route" initiative which allows pilgrims to complete entry procedures at their respective country's airports before proceeding to their accommodation. The initiative also involves Malaysia, thus reflecting its direct impact in facilitating the travel of Malaysian pilgrims. On the situation in West Asia: How would you describe the current geopolitical landscape in West Asia and what is Saudi Arabia's stance on the ongoing conflict? To what extent do these developments affect Saudi Arabia? Saudi Arabia has a strong vision based on supporting stability, preventing the escalation of crises, and prioritizing political and diplomatic solutions. This stems from the conviction that the security and prosperity of the region can only be achieved through dialogue, respect for national sovereignty, and addressing crises at their root causes, thereby protecting the interests of their people and preventing further escalation of tensions. Saudi Arabia's position is clear and firm. Saudi Arabia condemns Iran's attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, the Gulf States and Jordan, considering them an unacceptable violation of national sovereignty and a direct threat to the security and stability of the region. Saudi Arabia completely rejects any excuses that attempt to justify this attack. Saudi Arabia has officially stated that it will not allow its airspace or territory to be used to attack Iran. Therefore, this allegation is completely unacceptable. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia continues to exercise complete discretion and self-control. Saudi Arabia continues to work in coordination with other countries to support efforts to ease tensions, urge the implementation of a ceasefire, and restore regional stability. These unjustified attacks target countries not involved in the war, attacking civilian infrastructure, energy facilities and residential areas, which directly affects the interests of the people and the population. Saudi Arabia calls for an immediate halt to the attacks, an end to the escalation of tensions, and for international law and the principles of good neighborliness to be observed in order to preserve the security and stability of the region. Energy and global markets: Given the changing dynamics of global energy, how does Saudi Arabia balance its role as a major oil producer with the global shift towards renewable energy? Saudi Arabia addresses the issues of energy market stability and the protection of important waterways in accordance with international law. It stressed the importance of the security of maritime routes and freedom of navigation, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Bab el-Mandeb. Any threat to these waterways not only affects the global economy and international energy security, but also affects the movement of trade and essential goods, including food supplies, which directly impact the needs of the country and its people. From this perspective, Saudi Arabia's East-West pipeline stands out as an important strategic route for enhancing global supply stability, especially given the escalating military confrontation and its direct impact on maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. This pipeline gives Saudi Arabia significant flexibility in transporting supplies to the Red Sea coast via safe alternative routes, thus ensuring continuity and reliability of supply and reducing the impact of regional tensions. Crisis response and humanitarian efforts: How does the Government of Saudi Arabia contribute to humanitarian assistance and reconstruction efforts in areas affected by conflict? Saudi Arabia plays a leading role through its unwavering commitment to its responsibilities. Humanitarian assistance to people affected by war, natural disasters, and humanitarian crises is provided by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSRelief), which implements impactful projects and programs that have alleviated the suffering of millions of people in need around the world. The center has implemented over 4,000 humanitarian and emergency assistance projects in 113 countries at a cost of over US$8 billion across a variety of critical sectors. These projects have contributed to providing immediate assistance to those affected, in addition to supporting development programs that promote stability and improve the quality of life in beneficiary communities. Saudi Arabia ranks second globally and first among Arab countries in providing humanitarian aid and relief by 2025. In addition, Saudi Arabia continues its humanitarian support for the Palestinian people through KSRelief. The center's official data shows that 78 aircraft and eight ships have been dispatched carrying more than 7,706 tons of aid, in addition to 914 aid trucks, 20 ambulances, and aid agreements worth more than US$90 million, reflecting a combination of political stance with direct and planned humanitarian action. Saudi Arabia has consistently emphasized in its official stance and statements its clear rejection of the Israeli aggression and continued violations against the Palestinian people. The country is also actively engaging diplomatically with its regional and international partners to support a more effective stance on the development. Among the most recent examples is the joint stance of the Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia and several Arab and Islamic countries in rejecting the decision passed by the Knesset (Israeli Parliament) on the execution of Palestinian prisoners, considering it a dangerous escalation that undermines opportunities for stability. Saudi Arabia continues its active political role, in collaboration with France, in leading international efforts to implement a two-state solution. -- BERNAMA

New Saudi ambassador stresses strengthening bilateral ties, Hajj commitment, regional outlook

KUALA LUMPUR: The newly appointed Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Malaysia, who began working in the country in January, recently shared his initial views and priorities in an exclusive interview with .... read more