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KUALA LUMPUR, April 7 — Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi emphasised the importance of product diversification in empowering Malaysia’s halal industry following his visit to the Al-Meswak Mu’min Factory. The visit took place after the groundbreaking ceremony of the PERDA Halal Park, where Zahid observed first-hand the role of industry players in supporting the nation’s halal ecosystem. He expressed satisfaction with the factory’s progress, noting that it has responded well to the government’s call to expand halal offerings beyond traditional food and beverage products. “I am pleased to see developments like this. The factory has clearly embraced efforts to diversify halal products into other high-potential segments,” he said in a statement. Zahid stressed that the halal industry must continue to evolve in a broader and more innovative direction to remain competitive and penetrate larger global markets. “This is the direction we must take — a more dynamic and forward-looking halal industry,” he added. He also highlighted the importance of close collaboration between industry players and government agencies to ensure continued growth and global reach for local halal products. “Insya-Allah, through strong cooperation, our local halal products will be able to go further and compete internationally. Let us continue to support locally produced halal goods,” he said. --Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris --Photo: FB Zahid Hamidi

Product Diversification Key to Strengthening Halal Industry- Datuk Seri Dr. Zahid Hamidi

KUALA LUMPUR, April 7 — Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi emphasised the importance of product diversification in empowering Malaysia’s halal industry following his visit to the Al-Meswak Mu’min Factory. .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, April 7 — Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the development of the PERDA Halal Park will play a key role in strengthening Malaysia’s halal industry ecosystem and positioning the country as a global leader in the sector. Zahid noted that Malaysia’s halal industry is currently on strong footing, with its certification system recognised in more than 50 countries and widely regarded as a global benchmark. “This recognition reflects the confidence of the international community in Malaysia’s halal standards,” he said. However, he stressed that the industry’s true potential remains far greater, highlighting projections that the global halal market could reach approximately USD5 trillion by 2030. “This presents a significant opportunity that we must seize with more structured and bold strategies,” he added. Zahid explained that the PERDA Halal Park adopts a comprehensive approach by viewing halal as a complete ecosystem encompassing production, technology, logistics, and access to global markets. As Chairman of the Malaysia Halal Industry Development Council, he emphasised the need to expand supply chains, improve distribution efficiency, and leverage emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain to ensure greater transparency and quality assurance. In his capacity as Minister of Rural and Regional Development, Zahid also underscored the importance of ensuring that rural entrepreneurs are not left behind. “Insya-Allah, the PERDA Halal Park will create opportunities for rural entrepreneurs to grow, enhance their capabilities, and penetrate international markets,” he said. He expressed confidence that the initiative will help nurture more globally competitive entrepreneurs while elevating Malaysia’s standing as a major force in the global halal industry. --Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris --Photo: FB Zahid Hamidi

Datuk Seri Dr. Zahid Hamidi: PERDA Halal Park to Strengthen Malaysia’s Halal Industry Ecosystem

KUALA LUMPUR, April 7 — Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the development of the PERDA Halal Park will play a key role in strengthening Malaysia’s halal industry ecosystem .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, April 7 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today called for the immediate de-escalation of conflicts in West Asia and a renewed global commitment to diplomacy, warning that continued violence risks triggering far-reaching economic and security repercussions. Delivering his keynote address at the Kuala Lumpur-Ankara Dialogue 2026, Anwar described the current situation in West Asia as a “harsh and dismal reality”, marked by the loss of thousands of lives, destruction of civilian infrastructure and indiscriminate attacks on critical facilities. “As we gather to strengthen the linkages between Malaysia and Turkiye, we do so at a time when the world is once again confronted with a harsh and dismal reality, the tragedy of war in West Asia,” he said. Anwar noted that the ongoing conflict has resulted in immense human suffering, with thousands of lives lost and innocent civilians, including school children, being massacred while seeking shelter in their classrooms, bridges are blown to smithereens, and oil as well as nuclear installations are bombed indiscriminately. “The human and physical cost continues to mount, even as diplomatic efforts are being pursued to halt the violence and restore stability,” he said.

PM Anwar Calls For A Renewed Global Commitment To Diplomacy

KUALA LUMPUR, April 7 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today called for the immediate de-escalation of conflicts in West Asia and a renewed global commitment to diplomacy, warning .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, April 7 -- Malaysia’s Department of Fisheries (DOF) has confirmed that public waters in Peninsular Malaysia remain safe and free from Koi Herpesvirus (KHV), despite reported cases in parts of Sabah. DOF director-general Datuk Adnan Hussain said ongoing surveillance under the National Fish Health Surveillance Programme has detected no spread of KHV in rivers and lakes across the peninsula. “Data also show a decline in cases at private koi farms, from seven in 2022 to three in 2025, with all incidents fully contained and no spillover into public waters,” he said in a statement today. However, he said that the department will continue strengthening control measures, including conducting periodical inspections at least twice a year at farms breeding Cyprinidae species, which is the largest group of freshwater fish. “DOF will also tighten import controls at national entry points in collaboration with the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (MAQIS), while enhancing monitoring and rapid response readiness for any unusual incidents,” he said. The Sabah Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry recently ordered the immediate capture and disposal of all non-endemic koi and Cyprinidae species from Tagal conservation areas and rivers. Its minister, Datuk Jamawi Jaafar, said the move followed confirmation that KHV, carried by the affected species, was the main cause of deaths among pelian (kelah) fish reported in several districts since Aug 1 last year. Adnan described the situation in Sabah as a stark reminder that fish disease threats can arise at any time, stressing that strict biosecurity measures and full compliance with quarantine and farm management protocols are essential. “With no treatment or vaccine available for KHV, the immediate culling of infected fish remains the most effective way to break the chain of infection and prevent wider spread,” he said. He also warned that releasing diseased fish or discharging contaminated water into public drainage systems is irresponsible and could severely impact native species such as kelah and lampam, as well as disrupt aquatic ecosystems. The DOF also urged operators and the public to promptly report any unusual fish deaths to the nearest fisheries office.

Peninsula Waters Clear Of KHV Despite Sabah Cases – DOF

PUTRAJAYA, April 7 — Malaysia’s Department of Fisheries (DOF) has confirmed that public waters in Peninsular Malaysia remain safe and free from Koi Herpesvirus (KHV), despite reported cases in parts .... read more

SEGAMAT, April 7 -- The trailer driver involved in the fatal crash that claimed the lives of three family members at KM212 of the Johor Bahru–Seremban Road, near the Taman Golden Hill junction in Gemas Baharu last week, was charged at the Magistrate’s Court here today. The accused, Muhamad Shafiq Salleh, 29, nodded in understanding as the charge was read before Magistrate Amalina Johar. No plea was recorded, however, as the case falls under the jurisdiction of the High Court. According to the charge sheet, the accused is alleged to have caused the deaths of K Myakrishnan, 72, his wife S Sevendai, 65, and Sevendai’s brother S Palamiandy, 75, at the location at 3.50 pm on April 2. He was charged under Section 302 of the Penal Code, which carries the death penalty or imprisonment of 30 to 40 years. If the death penalty is not imposed, the convicted person must also be sentenced to a minimum of 12 strokes of the cane. No bail was offered to the accused, and the court set May 21 for a case mention to allow for the submission of post-mortem, medical, forensic, pathology and Puspakom reports. Deputy public prosecutor Nur ‘Aina Muhammad Ismail Tadj appeared for the prosecution, while the accused was unrepresented. Three people, including a married couple, were killed in the accident, while two others were injured after a trailer collided with the rear of the van carrying the victims at the Taman Golden Hill junction in Gemas Baharu. Earlier, Transport Minister Anthony Loke directed the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) to conduct an immediate audit and investigation into the trailer operator. Loke said strict action must be taken, including holding the company accountable for failing to monitor its driver’s conduct, noting that the driver tested positive for methamphetamine.

Trailer Driver Charged With Murder Of Three In Segamat Crash

SEGAMAT, April 7 — The trailer driver involved in the fatal crash that claimed the lives of three family members at KM212 of the Johor Bahru–Seremban Road, near the Taman .... read more

KOTA BHARU, April 7 -- Malaysia Airports has clamped down on illegal street racing at the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (LTSIP). In a statement today, Malaysia Airports said that it has taken proactive measures in collaboration with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and Road Transport Department (JPJ) to strengthen enforcement and prevent such activities. The statement highlighted that this strategic partnership between the agencies plays a vital role in ensuring the airport’s safety while preventing similar unlawful activities. “In addition to enforcement, LTSIP management has restricted access to certain kerbside areas after the last scheduled flights at night, using traffic cones. “This measure serves as an extra precaution to prevent irresponsible individuals from using the area for illegal street racing,” the statement added. Malaysia Airports has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining safety and order across airports, ensuring the well-being of both travellers and the public. Yesterday, Transport Minister Anthony Loke directed JPJ to conduct a large-scale enforcement operation at LTSIP to curb illegal street racers, known locally as mat rempit. Earlier media reports said that the area in front of the departure hall at the new LTSIP terminal in Pengkalan Chepa, which has been operational for less than a month, had been repeatedly used as a ‘racing track’. The activity reportedly began during Ramadan and continued until last Friday night, drawing public attention after videos by travellers circulated on social media.

Malaysia Airports Clamps Down On Illegal Street Racing At LTSIP

KOTA BHARU, April 7 — Malaysia Airports has clamped down on illegal street racing at the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (LTSIP). In a statement today, Malaysia Airports said that it .... read more

GEORGE TOWN, April 7 — Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi paid a courtesy visit to the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang, Ramli Ngah Talib, during a dinner held at the official residence, Sri Mutiara, last night. Zahid described the meeting as meaningful, noting that both leaders had the opportunity to exchange views on various matters, particularly in relation to strengthening development efforts and enhancing the well-being of the people. “I truly appreciate the insights and experiences shared by Tun, which provide valuable perspective and inspiration in our continuous efforts to advance development and ensure the welfare of the rakyat,” he said in a statement. He also expressed his prayers for the Penang Governor’s continued good health and well-being, while voicing confidence in his leadership. “May his leadership continue to bring prosperity and harmony to the people of this state,” Zahid added. The meeting reflects ongoing engagement between federal leadership and state institutions aimed at fostering cooperation and ensuring inclusive progress across the country. --Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris --Photo: FB Zahid Hamidi

Datuk Seri Dr. Zahid Hamidi Pays Courtesy Call on Penang Governor, Discusses Development and People’s Well-Being

GEORGE TOWN, April 7 — Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi paid a courtesy visit to the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang, Ramli Ngah Talib, during a dinner held at .... read more

Selangor Exco Papparaidu Calls for Stronger Anti-Drug Measures to Protect Youth and National Security

KUALA LUMPUR, April 7, 2026 — Selangor Executive Councillor Papparaidu Veraman has called for stronger and more comprehensive efforts to combat drug abuse, warning that the issue poses a serious .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, April 7 — Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has announced that the government is considering extending the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign until the end of 2027 as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s tourism strategy amid global uncertainties yesterday. Zahid said he chaired the second high-level meeting on the “Mother Year of Visit Malaysia 2026” earlier this evening to review current developments and outline the next steps for the national tourism initiative. “The meeting agreed to propose that the implementation of VM2026 be extended until the end of 2027. This proposal will be brought to the Cabinet for further consideration,” he said in a statement. According to Zahid, the decision was made to allow Malaysia to enhance its promotional strategies, adapt to evolving global conditions, and capitalise on shifting international tourist flows. He added that stronger coordination between ministries and government agencies will continue to be a priority to ensure all tourism-related initiatives are implemented in a more integrated and impactful manner. “We want to ensure Malaysia remains a safe and trusted destination of choice for international visitors,” he said. Zahid also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the tourism sector, expressing confidence that continued efforts will generate positive economic spillovers and benefit the rakyat. “Insya-Allah, the government will continue to reinforce the country’s tourism industry so it can contribute meaningfully to economic growth and the well-being of the people,” he added. --Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris --Photo: FB Zahid Hamidi

Datuk Seri Dr. Zahid Hamidi: Proposal to Extend Visit Malaysia 2026 to Boost Tourism Strategy

KUALA LUMPUR, April 7 — Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has announced that the government is considering extending the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign until the end of 2027 .... read more

DAP Urges Public Action on Energy Crisis, Backs Reforms and Road Safety Measures

KUALA LUMPUR, April 7, 2026 — The Central Executive Committee (CEC) of the Democratic Action Party (DAP) has called on its leaders and elected representatives to step up engagement with .... read more