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KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today stressed that the transition towards clean and sustainable energy is no longer a choice but a critical necessity as the world grapples with geopolitical uncertainties, growing energy demands and rapid technological transformation. Speaking at the inauguration of the Energy Transition Conference (ETCon) 2026, Anwar said the global energy landscape is undergoing a profound shift that requires governments, industries and stakeholders to rethink traditional approaches and embrace innovative solutions for a more resilient future. The Prime Minister described ETCon 2026 as an important platform that brings together local and international energy industry leaders, policymakers, experts and investors to exchange ideas, share expertise and explore strategic pathways for advancing sustainable energy development. "The future of the global energy sector demands a shift in mindset and the courage to explore new solutions. Recent developments, including the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, have shown that the world can no longer rely entirely on fossil fuels," he said. PM Anwar noted that global disruptions have exposed vulnerabilities in conventional energy supply chains, reinforcing the urgency of accelerating the adoption of renewable energy sources that are cleaner, more sustainable and better equipped to withstand future shocks. He also highlighted the growing impact of technological advancements and globalization, which continue to drive unprecedented demand for reliable and sufficient energy supplies worldwide. "The rapid development of data centres, which serve as the backbone of artificial intelligence (AI), the digital economy and the semiconductor industry, has made the energy transition agenda more urgent and strategic than ever before," he said. According to Anwar, countries that successfully balance economic growth with sustainable energy development will be better positioned to compete in the increasingly digital and technology-driven global economy. The Prime Minister further reaffirmed Malaysia's commitment to making the ASEAN Power Grid a success, describing it as one of the region's most important energy initiatives. He said the project would strengthen regional cooperation in the development, sharing and distribution of energy resources through a more integrated, efficient and secure energy network. "The ASEAN Power Grid will not only enhance regional energy security but also support economic growth and sustainability across Southeast Asia, ensuring that ASEAN nations can collectively navigate future energy challenges," he added. PM Anwar stressed that Malaysia remains committed to leading regional efforts towards a cleaner energy future while ensuring energy security, economic competitiveness and long-term sustainability for future generations. ETCon 2026 is expected to serve as a catalyst for stronger collaboration among governments, industry players and stakeholders as nations work towards achieving their energy transition goals and climate commitments. -- MINUTESMY -- CREDIT: FB FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

Energy Transition No Longer an Option, but a National Imperative – PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today stressed that the transition towards clean and sustainable energy is no longer a choice but a critical necessity .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, has advised the newly appointed Chief Commissioner of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), Dato' Seri Abdul Halim Aman, to carry out his responsibilities with the highest level of integrity and commitment in strengthening the nation's fight against corruption. During an audience at Istana Negara today, His Majesty expressed confidence in Abdul Halim's ability to lead the anti-graft agency and emphasised the importance of maintaining public trust through transparent and accountable governance. Sultan Ibrahim stressed that efforts to combat corruption must be carried out continuously, firmly and without fear or favour to ensure that integrity, justice and the rule of law remain protected. The King also underscored the need for all enforcement institutions to remain steadfast in safeguarding the nation's interests and strengthening public confidence in government institutions. Abdul Halim Aman was appointed as MACC Chief Commissioner effective May 13, succeeding Azam Baki. The audience with His Majesty took place at Istana Negara on Thursday.

Agong Urges New MACC Chief to Lead Anti-Corruption Fight with Integrity

KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, has advised the newly appointed Chief Commissioner of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), Dato’ Seri Abdul Halim Aman, .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, has expressed his willingness to provide views and constructive guidance regarding the future development of Kuala Lumpur, with a focus on effective governance, efficient public service delivery, and improving the quality of life for city residents. According to a statement issued today, His Majesty emphasised the importance of ensuring that development initiatives are implemented in a balanced and inclusive manner, while safeguarding the welfare of the people. The King also stressed that all planning and policy implementation should deliver comprehensive benefits to society and contribute to the long-term prosperity of the Federal Capital. Earlier today, Sultan Ibrahim granted an audience to Hannah Yeoh at Istana Negara. During the meeting, Hannah Yeoh presented a briefing on the Kuala Lumpur Reform Agenda, which covered various aspects of the city's development, including security, urban planning, and governance initiatives aimed at enhancing Kuala Lumpur's liveability and competitiveness. Also present during the audience were Muhammad Azmi Mohd Zain and Fadlun Mak Ujud. The meeting took place at Istana Negara on Thursday. -- MINUTESMY -- CREDIT: FB SULTAN IBRAHIM SULTAN ISKANDAR

Agong Calls for Balanced Development and Better Governance in Kuala Lumpur

KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, has expressed his willingness to provide views and constructive guidance regarding the future development of Kuala Lumpur, with .... read more

JOHOR BAHRU, June 4 -- Police have arrested 10 suspects in a series of raids to assist investigations into the case of a man being hacked to death in front of a restaurant in Pekan Nanas, Pontian on May 21. Johor Acting Police Chief DCP Hoo Chuan Huat said acting on information, a police team from the Crime Suppression, Vice and Gambling Division (D7) and Special Investigation Division (D9), Johor Police Contingent Headquarters (IPK) together with the Criminal Investigation Division, Pontian District Police Headquarters arrested all the male suspects, aged 18 to 28, around Pontian and Batu Pahat from May 21 to Tuesday. "We also seized the vehicles, clothes, face masks and weapons used in the incident," he said in a statement last night. Hoo said checks found that six suspects had criminal records and two others had criminal records and narcotics, while a preliminary urine screening test found that one suspect tested positive for benzo-type drugs. He said six suspects were remanded for 15 days starting May 21, one was remanded for seven days starting May 29, two were remanded for seven days starting June 1, while another was remanded for seven days starting June 3, under Section 117 of the Criminal Procedure Code. The investigation papers were then referred to the state Public Prosecutor's Office yesterday, and the charges against the seven suspects and five others who are still at large under Section 302 of the Penal Code were read together with Section 34 of the Penal Code. Hoo said the three suspects were released and made prosecution witnesses on bond under Section 118 of the Criminal Procedure Code. "Based on the investigation conducted, we believe the motive of the incident is related to elements of a secret society group, including the recruitment of new members," he said. Therefore, he advised the public, especially young people, not to get involved with secret societies and to channel any criminal information to the nearest police station and the Johor Police hotline 019-2792095 or the Johor IPK operations room line 07-2212999. Earlier, the media reported that a 22-year-old local man was found dead in a pool of blood in front of a food and beverage shop in Pekan Nanas, Pontian. The victim, who suffered serious injuries to his hands and feet, was later confirmed dead at the scene, and the case is being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code. -- BERNAMA

Police Detain 10 Suspects to Help Investigate Case of Man Hacked in Pekan Nanas

JOHOR BAHRU, June 4 — Police have arrested 10 suspects in a series of raids to assist investigations into the case of a man being hacked to death in front .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 -- Two weak earthquakes A 2.9 magnitude earthquake struck Ranau, Sabah and Mambong, Sarawak within 12 hours on Tuesday (June 2). Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) Director-General Dr Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip said the earthquake in Ranau was detected at a depth of 10 kilometres (km) at 10.36am. He said the epicentre was detected at latitude 6.07° north and longitude 116.58° east. “The tremor was also felt in several areas around Kundasang, Ranau and Kota Belud, Sabah,” he said in a statement today. Mohd Hisham said on the same day, another weak earthquake with a similar magnitude and a depth of 10 km was detected in Mambong at 10.33pm. The earthquake was centred at latitude 1.32° north and longitude 110.39° east, with tremors also felt in several areas around Samarahan and Serian, Sarawak. However, he advised the public not to worry as both events were categorised as weak magnitude earthquakes. Mohd Hisham said MetMalaysia would continue to monitor the situation and issue alerts from time to time. "The public can obtain the latest and most accurate weather and earthquake information via the official website, myCuaca application and the department's official social media, or contact the hotline 1300-22-1638 for any further enquiries," he said. -- BERNAMA

Two Weak Earthquakes Shake Ranau, Mambong Within 12 Hours – MetMalaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 — Two weak earthquakes A 2.9 magnitude earthquake struck Ranau, Sabah and Mambong, Sarawak within 12 hours on Tuesday (June 2). Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) Director-General .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will officiate the Energy Transition Conference 2026 (ETCon26) today, demonstrating Malaysia's commitment to accelerating the energy transition agenda towards a sustainable future. Anwar is scheduled to deliver his special keynote address at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre at 9.50am. Previously, the Prime Minister said that ETCon26 reflects MADANI's vision by driving sustainable progress, which improves the quality of life of the people through the values ​​of kindness, innovation, prosperity and trust. The conference, which took place from June 3 to 5, was officiated by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, yesterday. The major conference by Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) brought together global stakeholders to accelerate the implementation of the country's energy transition agenda, as well as serving as a meeting platform for policymakers, technology experts, investors, academics and industry from over 60 countries, with 4,000 delegates participating throughout the three-day event. Themed “Energy & AI: The Synergy for Energy Transition” focuses on three main pillars, namely Energy for AI, AI for Energy and Energy Transition (ET) for People, which showcase the interdependence between energy systems and digital technology. -- BERNAMA

Malaysia PM Anwar to officiate ETcon26 today, reflecting Malaysia’s commitment to energy transition

KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will officiate the Energy Transition Conference 2026 (ETCon26) today, demonstrating Malaysia’s commitment to accelerating the energy transition agenda towards .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 -- A total of 1,116 arrests have been made and RM48.05 million worth of goods seized through integrated enforcement operations conducted by multiple agencies nationwide, underscoring the government's ongoing commitment to combating subsidy leakages, smuggling activities and cross-border crimes. The Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) said that as of June 2, 2026, coordinated land, sea and air operations involving various enforcement agencies had resulted in significant successes in safeguarding national security, protecting the country's supply chain and preserving border sovereignty. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the achievement demonstrated the ministry's unwavering commitment to ensuring public safety, maintaining the stability of essential supplies and strengthening national security. "The success of these integrated operations proves the commitment of KDN and enforcement agencies in ensuring the safety of the people, the stability of national supplies and the sovereignty of our borders remain protected at all times," he said in a statement. According to KDN, cumulative enforcement actions carried out between April 12 and June 2, 2026, recorded 317 cases involving various offences, including smuggling, subsidy leakages and cross-border criminal activities. The arrests were made through enforcement actions led by several agencies, including the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM), Criminal Investigation Department (CID) D3 units, as well as operations targeting undocumented migrants and smuggling syndicates. KDN said the success reflects the effectiveness of its Smart Enforcement approach, which combines intelligence-driven operations, inter-agency cooperation and the use of technology to detect and curb activities that threaten national security and economic stability. The ministry added that integrated land, sea and air operations will continue to be intensified under a Whole-of-Government and Whole-of-Society approach to ensure enforcement actions are carried out firmly, professionally and with integrity. KDN reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening strategic enforcement measures to protect the welfare of the people, safeguard national interests and support the country's continued prosperity. As of June 2, the cumulative achievements recorded were: • 1,116 arrests • 317 cases investigated • RM48.05 million in total seizures • Continuous integrated enforcement operations across land, sea and air sectors -- MINUTESMY -- CREDIT: FB MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS MALAYSIA (KDN)

1,116 Arrests and RM48.05 Million in Seizures Recorded Through Multi-Agency Enforcement Operations

KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 — A total of 1,116 arrests have been made and RM48.05 million worth of goods seized through integrated enforcement operations conducted by multiple agencies nationwide, underscoring .... read more

Police have identified three local men suspected of an armed robbery at a grocery store in Taman Klebang Ria near Chemor, who are also believed to be involved in a similar heist in Penang. Ipoh police chief ACP Muhammad Najib Hamzah said police are actively tracking the trio after the store owner lodged a report regarding the incident last Sunday. "In the incident, three local men entered the premises armed with machetes (parang) and fled with cash and several items belonging to a female victim in her 20s. "No injuries were reported by the victim during the incident," he said in a statement tonight. Muhammad Najib said the case is being investigated under Section 395/397 of the Penal Code for armed gang robbery. He said closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage and incident details have gone viral on social media via the Threads platform. Muhammad Najib urged anyone with information about the case to contact the Ipoh District Police Headquarters (IPD) control room at 05-2451500 or visit the nearest police station to assist the investigation. He said the three suspects are also believed to be involved in an armed robbery at a convenience store in Nibong Tebal, Penang. Yesterday, Seberang Perai Selatan deputy police chief DSP Mohd Norazmi Abd Ghapar said his department was tracking down suspects who slashed a man with a machete during an armed robbery at a convenience store in Taman Bistari last Sunday. Mohd Norazmi said the suspects fled with cash, several packets of cigarettes, and a sling bag, with losses estimated at RM500. The 27-year-old male victim suffered injuries to his head and both hands. He received initial treatment at Sungai Bakap Hospital before being referred to Penang Sunway Hospital. He is reported to be in stable condition.

Manhunt Underway After Police Identify Three Suspects In Ipoh, Penang Armed Robberies

IPOH, June 4 — Police have identified three local men suspected of an armed robbery at a grocery store in Taman Klebang Ria near Chemor, who are also believed to .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR: The retail prices of RON97 petrol, RON95 without subsidy and diesel in Peninsular Malaysia have each recorded a decrease for the period from June 4 to 10. The Ministry of Finance (MOF) in a statement today announced that the retail price of RON97 has dropped by 30 sen, from RM4.65 to RM4.35 per litre, while RON95 without subsidy has dropped by 20 sen from RM3.92 to RM3.72 per litre. Diesel prices in Peninsular Malaysia are set at RM4.67 per litre compared to RM4.87 per litre previously, a decrease of 20 sen. According to MOF, the new retail price adjustment is in line with the Automatic Price Mechanism (APM) formula for this week which was lowered following the decline in average international market prices the previous week. During the same period, the MADANI government maintained subsidized prices targeted at the people and certain sectors, including RON95 (BUDI95) at RM1.99 per litre, diesel in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan at RM2.15 per litre, the Subsidized Petrol Control System (SKPS) at RM2.05 per litre and the Subsidized Diesel Control System (SKDS) at RM2.15 per litre. According to the statement, at the current unsubsidized price of RON95 of RM3.72 per litre, using 200 litres will cost RM744. "This means that the MADANI Government will bear up to RM346 for each recipient who uses the full BUDI95 entitlement. However, with a monthly entitlement ceiling of up to 200 litres, BUDI95 recipients will only pay up to RM398 per month for full use of the entitlement. "The price of non-subsidized diesel of RM4.67 per litre is more than double the price of subsidized diesel of RM2.15 per litre, to reduce the impact of diesel prices on the people through the cost of public transportation and logistics of consumer goods," the statement said. MOF informed that the decline in retail prices this week did not reflect the global petroleum market returning to stability, but rather the risk that crude oil and petroleum product prices would remain high in the medium term due to the conflict and current developments in West Asia. "Recently, major importing countries in Asia have been forced to increase their purchases of crude oil from alternative sources to compensate for supply disruptions from West Asia. Although crude oil imports from the United States to Asia have increased to record levels, the increase is still not enough to replace the loss of supply through the affected main trade routes. "This situation shows that the global petroleum market is still facing physical supply constraints, despite the average market price in the previous week recording a decline. If the conflict continues, the risk of global inventory depletion and supply shortages could put new pressure on crude oil and petroleum product prices in the coming period," said the MOF. In this regard, the MADANI Government calls on the people to continue to practice prudent fuel use to help ensure the security of the country's supply. -- BERNAMA

Prices of RON97, RON95 without subsidy and diesel reduced for the period 4 to 10 June

KUALA LUMPUR: The retail prices of RON97 petrol, RON95 without subsidy and diesel in Peninsular Malaysia have each recorded a decrease for the period from June 4 to 10. The .... read more

SHAH ALAM: The findings of a Special Inspection (B2) conducted by Puspakom Sdn Bhd contributed to a tribunal decision in favour of a used vehicle buyer after an eight-month dispute over the condition of a vehicle. Puspakom Chief Executive Officer, Mahmood Razak Bahman, said the case highlighted the importance of choosing the appropriate type of vehicle inspection based on its intended use because each inspection category has different regulatory and assessment functions. He said the vehicle involved had previously undergone a Transfer of Ownership Inspection (MV15) and a Hire Purchase Inspection (B7), both of which were carried out for specific verification purposes. "MV15 is carried out during the ownership transfer process to verify the vehicle's identity as well as engine and chassis numbers, while B7 is carried out at the request of a financial institution for the purpose of verifying hire purchase financing. "Despite having passed the inspection, the buyer later raised concerns about the condition of the vehicle and chose to undergo a B2 Special Inspection at Puspakom Batu Maung, Penang," he said in a statement on Wednesday. Mahmood said the B2 inspection identified structural non-compliance at the chassis level, which caused the vehicle to fail the inspection. He said the results of the inspection were then presented as evidence and contributed to the tribunal's decision in favour of the buyer, thus showing the difference between regulatory inspections such as MV15 and B7 and specialized inspections such as B2. He said that unlike the standard verification inspection, the B2 inspection involves a more comprehensive structural assessment that includes the condition of the chassis, structural integrity, vehicle identification details and compliance with regulatory requirements. "This allows any hidden issues such as damage from previous accidents, structural modifications or major repairs to be identified more effectively," he said. Mahmood also encouraged vehicle owners to take a more proactive approach to vehicle maintenance and safety aspects through Puspakom's Voluntary Vehicle Inspection (VVI) program. He said VVI helps vehicle owners assess the overall condition, safety and suitability of their vehicles for use on the road, thus enabling them to make more accurate decisions regarding maintenance planning, preparation for long-distance travel as well as the purchase or sale of used vehicles. "Choosing the right type of inspection is important to ensure a more comprehensive and accurate assessment, as well as to avoid any issues in the future. Puspakom also encourages the public to practice preventive inspections, particularly through VVI as part of responsible vehicle ownership practices and to improve road safety for all." "With a fee as low as RM15, VVI provides an easily accessible option for vehicle owners to better understand the condition of their vehicles and identify any potential problems earlier," he said. -- BERNAMA

Puspakom: Selection of inspection type important for accurate vehicle evaluation

SHAH ALAM: The findings of a Special Inspection (B2) conducted by Puspakom Sdn Bhd contributed to a tribunal decision in favour of a used vehicle buyer after an eight-month dispute .... read more

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PARIS, June 16 -- Vusion (VU - FR0010282822), the global leader in AI-powered digitalization solutions for physical commerce, today announced the expansion of its long-standing partnership with JYSK, one of Europe's leading home furnishing retailers, through a major new agreement supporting the retailer's next phase of store modernization and cloud transformation strategy.   The agreement includes the upgrade of electronic shelf labels across JYSK's already deployed 450 Nordic stores, the roll-out of Vusion solutions in 750 additional stores across Europe, and the full migration of JYSK's legacy on-premise platform to VusionCloud. By 2027, the deployment is expected to scale to approximately 2,500 stores across the Nordic, DACH and BENELUX regions. Through the transition to VusionCloud, JYSK will benefit from a more scalable and centralized platform enabling faster deployment cycles, simplified store operations, improved performance, and greater flexibility to support future retail innovation at scale. The cloud-based architecture will also strengthen operational consistency across markets while reducing infrastructure complexity. The project further reinforces Vusion's strategy to accelerate the migration of its installed base toward cloud-native solutions while deepening long-term customer relationships through operational excellence, local support, and continuous innovation. "JYSK has partnered with Vusion for more than 10 years, and this new agreement reflects both the strength of our collaboration and the value we see in moving to a more advanced cloud-based platform," said Carsten Nørgreen Weinkouff, Executive Vice President Retail Development, Marketing, E-commerce & Omnichannel at JYSK. "As we continue to modernize our stores across Europe, we are investing in solutions that provide greater scalability, operational efficiency, and flexibility for the future. Vusion's technology and teams have consistently demonstrated the reliability and support needed to accompany us at this scale." "This new milestone with JYSK demonstrates the strength of long-term customer partnerships and the accelerating shift toward cloud-native retail platforms," said Sébastien Fourcy, SEVP EMEA at Vusion. "By transitioning to VusionCloud, JYSK gains a scalable infrastructure designed to continuously improve operational efficiency and support innovation across thousands of stores. We are proud to support JYSK with a combination of technology leadership, local execution and long-term commitment." More about Vusion : www.vusion.com  -- PRNewswire -- Source: Vusion  

Vusion extends partnership with JYSK Across Europe

SINGAPORE, June 16, -- Galaxy Data Center ("Galaxy DC") today announced that it has secured US$250 million in an initial strategic financing round from a renowned international investment institution. The proceeds support the company's data center platform development in Southeast Asia, project execution, and deployment of high-density infrastructure for the AI era.    Galaxy DC is strategically leveraging its regional hub in Singapore to advance the multi-country deployment of GW-scale AIDC campuses across Southeast Asia. By employing diversified capital models and industrial ecosystem synergy strategies, the company delivers customized hyperscale AIDC infrastructure services to a broad range of clients. Galaxy DC believes that the demand for AI computing power is reshaping data centers from traditional facility assets toward a new phase of deep collaboration among energy strategy, engineering execution, operational resilience, and customer growth. The company will continue to strengthen its comprehensive capabilities in GW-scale AIDC across technology adaptability, power resources, green energy, localized rapid delivery, and low-carbon operations. It will also further enhance strategic capital partnerships, leveraging diversified capital models to position Southeast Asia as a key hub for global sustainable digital infrastructure. Arthur Yang, Co-founder and CEO of Galaxy DC, said: "This financing further strengthens Galaxy DC's regional platform capabilities. We are seeing rapidly evolving requirements from AI and cloud service clients — focusing not only on capacity, but also on delivery certainty, energy efficiency, operational resilience, and long-term scalability. Galaxy DC remains committed to leveraging cutting-edge, ever-evolving technology and synergistic sustainable energy solutions as its core, building future-ready GW-scale green computing infrastructure for our clients." Representatives from a world-renowned investment institution stated: "Galaxy DC has a clear development path in Southeast Asia as well as differentiated technical capabilities. We see long-term value in the company's high-density, green, and scalable data center platform, and look forward to supporting its role in regional digital infrastructure development." About Galaxy Data Center Galaxy Data Center (Galaxy DC) is a next-generation digital infrastructure platform built for the intelligent era, committed to becoming a continuously evolving global digital service provider. The company focuses on the growing computing demands of artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing, with hyperscale AI data centers (AIDCs) at the core of its offering. Galaxy DC builds digital infrastructure that is highly efficient, highly reliable, and highly scalable. Leveraging its unique strengths in sustainable design, resource-efficient deployment, and long-term operations, the company balances rapid compute capacity growth with environmental responsibility and lasting asset value. -- PRNewswire -- Source: Galaxy Data Center

Galaxy Data Center Secures US$250 Million in an Initial Strategic Financing Round to Build Next-Generation Green Compute Infrastructure in Southeast Asia

TANJUNG MALIM, JUNE 16 -- The establishment of a new political party in the country will not affect the chances of Barisan Nasional (BN) in the upcoming Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections. BN Secretary-General Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir said his party had made thorough preparations to face the two state elections by focusing fully on work in the areas that will be contested. He said that in a democratic system, every party has the right to establish a new political party, but BN remains consistent with the strategy and level of preparedness that has been planned. "UMNO and Johor BN have made thorough preparations. I am confident that the establishment of the new party will not affect BN based on the focus given to the work that has been arranged," he said. He said this to reporters when asked whether the existence of the National Vision Party and the United Malaysia Party (BERSAMA) could threaten BN's position in the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections. Earlier, Zambry, who is also the Minister of Higher Education, officiated the National Service Training Pilot Programme (PLKN) 3.0 at the Public University Level before attending the launch of the book titled 'Nahas Gerik: UPSI Berduka' at the Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI) here today. The Johor state election will be held on July 11, while the Negeri Sembilan state election will be held on August 1. The Johor State Legislative Assembly (DUN) has 56 seats with BN controlling 40 seats, followed by Pakatan Harapan (PH) with 12 seats, Perikatan Nasional (PN) with three seats and MUDA with one seat. For the Negeri Sembilan state assembly, PH has 17 out of 36 seats, followed by BN with 14 seats and PN with five seats. -- BERNAMA

BN not threatened by the existence of new political parties – Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir

GEORGE TOWN, JUNE 16 -- Penang is working closely with the Federal Government and security agencies to ensure that the management of nearly 20,022 Rohingya refugees and asylum seekers in the state is carried out in an orderly, registered and controlled manner. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said that based on data from the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) as of August 2023, an estimated 20,022 refugees and asylum seekers from the Rohingya community are in Penang and living in several areas in the state. "They live in the areas of Kepala Batas, Tasek Gelugor, Bagan, Permatang Pauh, Bukit Mertajam, Batu Kawan, Nibong Tebal, Bukit Bendera, Tanjong, Jelutong, Bukit Gelugor, Bayan Baru and Balik Pulau. "The state government has always taken a pragmatic, prudent and responsible approach in dealing with the issue of refugees and asylum seekers in the state, in line with the policies and decisions set by the Federal government," he told reporters after the 26th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of PBA Holdings Bhd (PBAHB) here today. He commented on the current situation and the number of Rohingya communities in Penang. Chow explained that matters relating to the entry of foreigners, recognition of refugee status, border control and immigration enforcement, fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government through the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN), the Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM) and the National Security Council (MKN). Therefore, he said the state government always gives full support to the implementation of MKN Directive No. 23 (Revision 2023), including the Refugee Registration Document (DPP) mechanism which aims to ensure that refugee management is carried out in a more systematic, registered and controlled manner. "The DPP is not seen as a policy to increase the number of refugees in Penang, but as a mechanism for the Federal government to find out who they are, where they are and how they can be monitored more effectively," he said. He also stressed that the state government will not compromise on violations of the law with any criminal activity, misuse of documents, human trafficking, involvement in immoral activities or violations of immigration conditions, which will be dealt with by the authorities in accordance with the provisions of the law in force, without any exceptions. In another development, Chow described the memorandum of understanding (MoU) announced between the United States (US) and Iran to end the conflict between the two countries as a positive development that is expected to benefit the global economy, including Malaysia and Penang. He said the conflicts that had erupted previously had had a significant impact on various sectors of the world economy including energy supply, logistics, commodity prices and global supply chains due to geopolitical uncertainties. On Sunday, US President Donald Trump announced that a deal with Iran had been finalized and he ordered the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of US naval blockades. -- BERNAMA

Penang to cooperate with Federation to handle issue of 20,022 Rohingya refugees – Chow

ISTANBUL, JUNE 16 -- FIFA said on Monday that it found no evidence of a breach of the FIFA Disciplinary Code after Video Assistant Referee (VAR) official Shaun Evans made a hand signal before a recent World Cup match, Anadolu Ajansi reported. "FIFA's Independent Disciplinary Committee can confirm that after examining the matter involving Video Assistant Referee (VAR) officer Shaun Evans, it found no evidence of a breach of the FIFA Disciplinary Code," the organisation said. Evans, an Australian official, was seen on the broadcast of Germany's match against Curacao on Sunday making the "OK" hand sign, a gesture associated with white supremacy and classified as a hate symbol by the Anti-Defamation League in 2019. Evans strongly denied any malicious intent, describing the move as an "unconscious and unintentional reflex". He expressed regret over the perception that arose following the gesture, but stressed that he did not make the symbol "knowingly or intentionally", which first gained attention after it was used by attackers in the Christchurch mosque incident in 2019 that killed 51 Muslims. -- BERNAMA-ANADOLU

World Cup: Referee hand signal controversy, no evidence of disciplinary code violation – FIFA