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Malaysia News

KUALA TERENGGANU: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Terengganu has remanded two lecturers from a statutory body in the state on suspicion of soliciting and accepting a bribe of approximately RM30,000 in return for issuing competency qualification certificates. The four-day remand order until May 8 was issued by Magistrate Iffah Nabihah Mohd Ishak after an application was made by MACC at the Kuala Terengganu Magistrate's Court this morning. According to sources, the two male suspects, aged in their 20s and 40s, were arrested at about 12 noon yesterday when they appeared to give statements at the Terengganu MACC office. "Initial investigations found that both suspects were suspected of abetting the act in 2025 and the bribe money requested was in return for providing 'instant approval' of competency certificates to each course participant. "The two suspects are believed to have received between RM900 and RM1,500 from about 31 participants and the bribe money was obtained through money transfer transactions to their respective personal bank accounts," he said. According to sources, MACC is currently investigating whether the competency certificate fraud is occurring on a larger scale and has not ruled out the possibility of conducting a review of each certificate issued by the relevant agency to identify the validity of the certificate. Meanwhile, Terengganu MACC Director Hazrul Shazreen Abd Yazid, when contacted, confirmed the arrest and said the case was being investigated under Section 16(a) of the MACC Act 2009. He also did not rule out the possibility that a series of follow-up arrests would be made to assist in the investigation. -- BERNAMA

MACC remands two statutory body instructors suspected of accepting bribes

KUALA TERENGGANU: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Terengganu has remanded two lecturers from a statutory body in the state on suspicion of soliciting and accepting a bribe of approximately RM30,000 .... read more

Anwar Ibrahim has been briefed on the latest developments surrounding the proposed transfer of three elephants from Taiping Zoo & Night Safari to Tennoji Zoo. The matter was discussed in a recent meeting, where key concerns were raised regarding the welfare of the elephants—Dara, Amoi and Kelat (DAK)—as well as the importance of maintaining Malaysia’s diplomatic relations and upholding existing agreements tied to the transfer. During the discussion, emphasis was placed on ensuring that all decisions and actions are guided by careful consideration, with animal welfare as the top priority. Continuous monitoring mechanisms were also highlighted as essential to ensure the elephants remain in good condition throughout the process. The Prime Minister acknowledged the strong public interest and concern over the issue, noting that such engagement reflects the community’s care for animal welfare. However, he stressed the importance of assessing the situation comprehensively, based on verified facts and current developments. Anwar further underscored that all parties involved must proceed cautiously and responsibly, balancing ethical considerations with international commitments. Relevant authorities are expected to provide further updates on the matter from time to time as developments unfold. -- MINUTESMY -- CREDIT: FB SANDREA NG

PM Anwar Ibrahim Briefed on Elephant Transfer Issue, Stresses Welfare and Diplomatic Commitments

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has been briefed on the latest developments surrounding the proposed transfer of three elephants from Taiping Zoo & Night Safari to Tennoji Zoo. The matter was .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, 5 MAY -- Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has officially launched the MARA Halal Ecosystem initiative, aimed at strengthening the position of Bumiputera entrepreneurs in the rapidly growing global halal industry yesterday. Speaking at the launch ceremony held at World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, Zahid highlighted the increasing importance of the halal sector, describing it as a symbol of trust, quality, and integrity that is gaining strong recognition worldwide. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the government’s aspiration to see Bumiputera entrepreneurs take the lead in halal production, innovation, and international market expansion. He noted that the MARA Halal Ecosystem will focus on several key areas, including strengthening halal expertise, expanding mentorship and certification programmes, accelerating digital transformation through MyHALAL MARA, and developing a more structured halal entrepreneurship education ecosystem to nurture new talent. Zahid expressed confidence that the initiative will create broader opportunities for Bumiputera entrepreneurs to scale their businesses and compete effectively on the global stage. The launch marks a significant step in reinforcing Malaysia’s ambition to remain a key player in the international halal industry while empowering local entrepreneurs to thrive in an increasingly competitive market. -- MINUTESMY -- CREDIT: FB ZAHID HAMIDI

Datuk Seri Dr. Zahid Hamidi Launches MARA Halal Ecosystem to Boost Bumiputera Presence in Global Markets

KUALA LUMPUR, 5 MAY — Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has officially launched the MARA Halal Ecosystem initiative, aimed at strengthening the position of Bumiputera entrepreneurs in the rapidly growing global halal .... read more

KOTA KINABALU -- Cheryl Ellron has been appointed as Sabah Oil and Gas Development Corporation (SOGDC) chief investment officer, marking a rare female leadership breakthrough in the state’s oil and gas sector. Taking on the role at a “pivotal time”, Cheryl said her focus includes expanding into downstream industries, attracting sustainable investments, and adopting energy-efficient technologies. “Sabah already has a strong foundation… what excites me most is how we can align this strength with Sabah’s Blue Economy frontier,” she said in a statement. She is also pursuing international partnerships, including with a United Kingdom firm, to introduce cleaner energy solutions. “Sabah’s position as a sweet crude oil producer gives us a natural advantage… (with) new technologies and a Blue Economy approach,” she said, adding the goal is to build a responsible, innovation-driven energy hub. --Credit: BORNEOPOST

Cheryl Ellron takes on role of chief investment officer at SOGDC

KOTA KINABALU — Cheryl Ellron has been appointed as Sabah Oil and Gas Development Corporation (SOGDC) chief investment officer, marking a rare female leadership breakthrough in the state’s oil and .... read more

Malaysia To Roll Out B15 Biodiesel From June 1 - Datuk Seri Dr.Ahmad Zahid

Malaysia To Roll Out B15 Biodiesel From June 1 – Datuk Seri Dr.Ahmad Zahid

PUTRAJAYA, May 4 — The government has decided that B15 biodiesel will be produced by 19 licensed plants from June 1 this year, in a move aimed at lowering diesel .... read more

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PUTRAJAYA, May 4 -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stressed that the country’s oil and gas supply remains secure, but rising global fuel prices continue to strain government finances as it maintains the RON95 price at RM1.99 to protect the majority. He said disruptions and risks to international trade routes due to conflicts in West Asia have led to higher shipping and insurance costs, which in turn are affecting fuel prices. However, he added that Malaysia is still able to ensure sufficient domestic oil and gas supply through its good relations with Iran and other producing countries, including Russia, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. “So, fuel supply is assured, but prices are rising. “This is not a problem originating from us, but from external factors. That is why we are compelled to face the challenge of rising fuel prices,” he said while delivering a speech and briefing on the issue at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability’s monthly assembly here today. Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said the government is committed to ensuring that rising global oil prices do not burden the majority of the people through the implementation of the BUDI MADANI RON95 (BUDI95) subsidy, despite having to bear a heavy financial cost. He said that at present, the government is spending RM5 billion a month on fuel subsidies, compared with RM700 million in January when the BUDI95 subsidy was introduced. “Malaysia is still maintaining the RON95 price (RM1.99 per litre)… if prices surge further, the subsidy could exceed RM6 billion a month. But for now, the government is bearing about RM5 billion a month. “In January, when I announced the RON95 subsidy, we were covering RM700 million a month. I thought that was manageable, as Malaysia is not a poor country,” he said. The Prime Minister urged all parties to understand that rising oil prices are a global reality and not the result of weaknesses in domestic policy. Oil prices rose above USD120 a barrel on Thursday after President Donald Trump warned Iran that a United States naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz could continue for several months. -- BERNAMA

Oil And Gas Supply Secure, But Rising Prices Strain Govt Finances – PM Anwar

PUTRAJAYA, May 4 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stressed that the country’s oil and gas supply remains secure, but rising global fuel prices continue to strain government finances .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, May 4 -- Former Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli arrived at the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) headquarters today to provide his statement on a probe into abuse of power and graft in a RM1.1 billion semiconductor deal with the United Kingdom firm ARM Limited. The Pandan Member of Parliament arrived at 9.31 am. Before entering, Rafizi told reporters he would give his full cooperation to the investigation. On Saturday, MACC senior investigation director Datuk Mohd Hafaz Nazar said the case is being probed under Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009 for the misuse of position or authority for gratification. According to him, 22 statements have been taken, including from ministers and senior officials across several government agencies, since the investigation started on Feb 13, 2025. Mohd Hafaz said the anti-graft body recorded statements from Rafizi's former aide Chai Jin Shern, better known as James Chai, for three consecutive days starting Tuesday last week. -- BERNAMA

Abuse Of Power Probe: Rafizi Gives Statement At MACC Hq

PUTRAJAYA, May 4 — Former Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli arrived at the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) headquarters today to provide his statement on a probe into abuse of .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 4 — Deputy Minister of Human Resources R. Ramanan yesterday called for stronger national commitment to safeguarding not only the physical safety but also the mental well-being of workers, as he officiated the National-Level Celebration of World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2026. The event was organised by the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health in collaboration with the Department of Occupational Safety and Health and the Social Security Organisation. Ramanan said this year’s theme, “Together for a Healthy Psychosocial Work Environment,” must be treated as a call to action rather than a slogan, reflecting the evolving realities and challenges of the modern workplace. “Mental and emotional well-being can no longer be sidelined. It must be elevated as a national priority,” he said, noting that workplace safety today extends beyond physical protection. He added that while the annual celebration is part of a global initiative to raise awareness on occupational safety and health (OSH), it carries deeper significance for Malaysia as a continuous commitment to ensuring workers are safe, healthy, and supported holistically. As a member of the International Labour Organization, Malaysia has consistently observed the occasion since 2003, with its commitment further strengthened through the ratification of ILO Convention No. 187 in 2012. Ramanan highlighted that the Ministry of Human Resources, through the Department of Occupational Safety and Health, continues to reinforce legal frameworks under the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994, which emphasises the importance of work environments that address both physiological and psychological needs. He also pointed to the implementation of the Occupational Safety and Health Master Plan 2026–2030 (OSHMP30), which begins this year, as a catalyst for a more holistic and resilient approach aligned with the nation’s aspiration to build a productive and well-rounded workforce. “We can no longer view workplace safety and health through an outdated lens. The future of work demands that we act more proactively, inclusively, and courageously in protecting every worker—because behind every worker is a family that depends on them,” he said. During the same event, Ramanan witnessed the handover of job offer letters through PERKESO’s MYFutureJobs platform, connecting employers with successful job seekers. “This initiative demonstrates that strengthening the labour market is not merely policy on paper, but real action that creates employment opportunities and enhances the employability of Malaysians,” he added. -- Minutes MY -- Credit: FB Ramanan

Malaysia Must Prioritise Mental Well-Being in the Workplace, Not Just Physical Safety – Dato Seri Ramanan

KUALA LUMPUR, May 4 — Deputy Minister of Human Resources R. Ramanan yesterday called for stronger national commitment to safeguarding not only the physical safety but also the mental well-being .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 4 — Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has reaffirmed that Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) remains a critical bridge of opportunity in shaping the future of the Bumiputera community, stressing that its mission goes far beyond that of a conventional institution. Speaking at the Persada MARA Gala Night, Zahid described MARA as a symbol of transformation—uplifting rural youth, empowering families, and nurturing entrepreneurs to achieve success. “MARA is not merely an institution; it represents the journey of village children given a chance, families whose dignity is restored, and entrepreneurs guided towards achievement,” he said. Zahid highlighted that MARA has grown into a comprehensive development ecosystem encompassing education, skills training, entrepreneurship, and strategic investments. He pointed to the success of MARA Junior Science Colleges (MRSM) and the strong employability of MARA Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) graduates—now reaching 98 percent—as clear evidence that its approach has produced well-rounded, knowledgeable, and competitive individuals. “As we move forward, MARA must go beyond creating opportunities to building mastery. We must produce a generation that is not only beneficiaries, but creators of opportunity and future leaders of the nation,” he added. Zahid also extended his congratulations to recipients of the Persada MARA Awards, including Chief Secretary to the Government Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, a MARA alumnus who received the MARA Alumni Icon Legacy Award. He emphasised that while six decades of MARA’s journey have laid a strong foundation, much work remains ahead. “The journey is far from over. Six decades is only the beginning—the future is our field to go further,” he said, urging all stakeholders to continue upholding the spirit of “Menjunjung Amanah Rakyat.” -- Minutes MY -- Credit: FB Zahid Hamidi

MARA Must Evolve from Expanding Access to Building Lasting Empowerment -Datuk Seri Dr Zahid Hamidi

KUALA LUMPUR, May 4 — Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has reaffirmed that Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) remains a critical bridge of opportunity in shaping the future of the .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the 60th anniversary of Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) should not be viewed as a routine institutional milestone, but as a profound reflection of Malaysia’s long journey in balancing merit, justice, and social responsibility. In a statement today, Anwar stressed that MARA’s legacy represents more than six decades of policy—it embodies the nation’s ongoing effort to build a more inclusive future. “The debate on affirmative action has never subsided. It is often reduced to narrow and simplistic arguments,” he said, noting that criticisms rooted in pure meritocracy—such as those associated with American economist Thomas Sowell—should not be adopted uncritically without considering Malaysia’s unique socio-economic realities. Anwar argued that perspectives emphasizing unrestricted competition risk overlooking structural inequalities. Drawing from the tradition of economist John Kenneth Galbraith, he said social justice is not merely rhetorical but a structural necessity to prevent communities from being trapped in cycles of marginalisation. “Justice must be upheld not to deny merit, but to correct longstanding imbalances. Without principled intervention, meritocracy risks becoming a tool that legitimises inequality rather than resolving it,” he added. Referencing philosopher John Rawls’ concept of “justice as fairness,” Anwar questioned the validity of demanding equal competition without first ensuring equal access. “How can we expect fair competition between elite urban schools and students in remote areas such as Kapit, Manik Urai, Hulu Kelantan or Hulu Pahang, without first guaranteeing equitable opportunities and foundations?” he said. Anwar concluded that justice must ultimately manifest through equal opportunity, reaffirming MARA’s continued role as a vehicle for empowerment—particularly in education, entrepreneurship, and social mobility. “MARA must continue to uplift every child of the nation, regardless of background or geography, so they may rise with dignity and strong competitiveness,” he said. -- Minutes MY --Credit: FB Anwar Ibrahim

MARA at 60 Must Champion Fair Opportunity, Not Just Celebrate Legacy – PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the 60th anniversary of Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) should not be viewed as a routine institutional milestone, but as a profound reflection .... read more

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KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 16 -- Police have arrested another individual to assist in investigations into the murder of a man at a hotel in Sunway Mentari, Petaling Jaya on July 8. Petaling Jaya District Police Chief, ACP Shamsudin Mamat said the man, in his 40s, was arrested last Monday and remanded for four days until tomorrow to assist in the investigation. He said the remand period of two men in their 20s and 30s who were previously detained expired today, and would be extended to assist with investigations. "The investigation papers regarding this case will be referred to the Deputy Public Prosecutor this week," he said in a statement today. Previously, the media reported that a man in his 30s was found unconscious in a hotel before being reported dead at 11.23pm. Initial examination found signs of injury on the victim's body, and the results of the autopsy at the University Malaya Medical Centre (PPUM) confirmed the cause of death was severe injuries due to the impact of a blunt object. -- BERNAMA

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