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KUALA LUMPUR, March 20 (Bernama) -- Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called on Muslims to continue fostering love, strengthening bonds of kinship and extending sincere forgiveness to one another in conjunction with Syawal. In a Facebook post, he reminded the people to cherish the moments spent with family and loved ones during the Aidilfitri celebrations. He also prayed that the Syawal celebrations would bring blessings, peace and happiness to all Muslims. “I would like to take this opportunity, together with my wife, family, the staff at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office and the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development, and all UMNO members, to convey my heartfelt wishes for a Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri 1447H to all Muslims, wherever they may be,” he said. Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof urged Muslims to celebrate Aidilfitri this year in a modest yet meaningful way. He said the world today was still grappling with conflicts across several regions, including in West Asia with the situation in Gaza‑Palestine, while tensions between Iran, Israel and the United States continued to affect regional stability. Fadillah said in Eastern Europe, the protracted Russia-Ukraine conflict had yet to find a resolution, while in South Asia, tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan further contributed to pressures on regional peace. He said the situation had affected not only global security, but also the world economy, causing disruptions in energy and food supplies, rising commodity prices, and volatility in international markets. Malaysia was also impacted, with higher living costs, disrupted supply chains, and mounting economic challenges, highlighting the need for careful and prudent management of expenditures, he added. “In these uncertain times, every penny we save holds great importance for our future and that of our family. “However, let this situation not diminish the joy of Hari Raya. True happiness lies not in extravagance, but in togetherness, sitting with family, forgiving one another, treasuring your loved ones, and strengthening bonds with friends of all backgrounds,” he said in a Facebook post. Fadillah, who is also the Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, said the MADANI Government had taken several prudent measures to help the people navigate the global crisis, including providing targeted subsidies and managing fuel prices responsibly despite the rise in world oil prices. In addition, he said the disbursement of Phase 2 of the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) had been expedited, while Special Financial Assistance for civil servants had also been distributed. Fadillah said an additional public holiday has been declared to facilitate Aidilfitri preparations and travel to hometowns, aiming to ease the people’s burdens and bring joy during the festive season. “The government will continue to strive to ensure stability through price controls on essential goods, strengthening the social safety net, providing targeted assistance to the people and implementing measures to strengthen the domestic economy so that we are not overly dependent on external factors. Behind every policy and decision, there is a clear objective, to help the people lead better lives. “However, Malaysia’s strength lies not only in government policies, but also in its people. In this challenging times, let us continue to uphold the unity that has long been the nation’s pillar by respecting, helping, and understanding one another across races. This is our greatest strength. Do not let differences divide us; instead, let our diversity be a source of strength,” he said. Fadillah said Hari Raya, celebrated by Muslims tomorrow, is the best occasion for people to reconnect, extend forgiveness, and strengthen the bridges of unity. “This country will continue to be strong only if its people remain united, segulai sejalai,” he said.

Ahmad Zahid Calls On Muslims To Strengthen Bonds Of Kinship This Aidilfitri

KUALA LUMPUR — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called on Muslims to continue fostering love, strengthening bonds of kinship and extending sincere forgiveness to one .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, March 19 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has urged Apple users to immediately update their iOS devices following the discovery of multiple security vulnerabilities. In a statement today, MCMC said Apple had released an important security update addressing vulnerabilities, including an exploit chain known as “DarkSword” affecting iOS devices, particularly Apple iPhones. It said the vulnerabilities could be exploited together to compromise affected devices, potentially allowing unauthorised access and other malicious activities. “Users are therefore advised to update their devices to the latest iOS version to ensure they remain protected,” it said. MCMC said devices that were not updated could be exposed to security risks, including unauthorised access to device data and personal information; installation of spyware or malicious software; theft of messages, files, or other sensitive data; as well as possible monitoring or surveillance of the device. The commission strongly advised users to enable automatic updates, avoid visiting suspicious websites, only install applications from the official Apple App Store, restart their devices after updating and remain alert to any unusual behaviour. MCMC added that the public should practise safe digital habits and rely only on information from official sources.

MCMC Urges Immediate iOS Update Amid Security Risks

KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has urged Apple users to immediately update their iOS devices following the discovery of multiple security vulnerabilities. In a statement .... read more

The public is urged to use electricity and water prudently and efficiently, especially during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri season, which typically sees increased consumption of both resources. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said that during the festive season, electricity demand for residential users is usually estimated to rise by 20 to 40 per cent compared with normal usage. “Simple electricity-saving measures include turning off lights and electrical appliances when not in use, avoiding standby mode, setting air-conditioner temperatures between 24 and 26 degrees Celsius, and using appliances with four- or five-star energy efficiency ratings,” he said in a statement today. For water usage, an increase of 30 to 35 per cent is expected in most states that are popular destinations for people returning home for the festival. Fadillah added that water supply operators are on alert to ensure demand is met efficiently. “The National Water Services Commission (SPAN) also ensures operators are prepared with contingency plans in case of any unexpected incidents during the festive season,” said Fadillah, who is also Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation. The Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), through SPAN, also targets a maximum daily per capita water usage of 160 litres, in line with international benchmarks. He said recommended water-saving measures include fixing internal pipe leaks, using alternative water sources such as rainwater for non-essential activities like garden cleaning, practising disciplined usage, washing clothes only when the load is full, and ensuring taps are tightly closed after use. In addition, reusing uncontaminated water, such as ablution (wuduk) water, and selecting products with two- or three-star water-efficiency labels can help save up to an average of 50 per cent on monthly bills. On electrical safety, PETRA reminded the public to ensure home wiring is safe and to test Residual Current Devices (RCDs) by pressing the ‘T’ test button at least once a month. “If the RCD functions properly, it will trip and cut the electricity supply immediately. If it does not function and needs replacement, please engage an electrical contractor registered with the Energy Commission,” he said. Other measures include ensuring wires are not damaged, avoiding overloading sockets, using appliances with safety labels, keeping hands dry when using electrical equipment, and avoiding using mobile phones while charging. Fadillah said that by practising efficient energy and water usage, the public can not only celebrate the festival more safely but also support the nation’s agenda to ensure sustainable, resilient energy and water resources capable of meeting the country’s future development needs.

Use Electricity, Water Prudently During Aidilfitri – Fadillah

PUTRAJAYA– The public is urged to use electricity and water prudently and efficiently, especially during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri season, which typically sees increased consumption of both resources. Deputy Prime .... read more

BUKIT MERTAJAM, March 20 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim began his one-day working visit to Penang today by performing Friday prayers at Masjid Jamek As-Syakirin in Kampung Pelet here. He arrived at the mosque at 1.12 pm and was received by Permatang Pauh UMNO division chief Datuk Mohd Zaidi Mohd Said, mosque chairman Othman Syafie and congregants. Anwar, together with nearly 700 worshippers, including Penang Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid, then listened to a sermon titled "Ramadan, Ketika Senja Terakhir Berlabuh" delivered by Imam I Muhammad Nasir Hamid. After the prayers, the Prime Minister visited the Permatang Pasir community to observe Aidilfitri preparations ahead of the nationwide celebration tomorrow. Before concluding his visit to the Pearl of the Orient, Anwar is also scheduled to attend the “Santai Akhir Ramadan Bersama Pimpinan Komuniti Permatang Pauh” programme at the Permatang Pasir Community Hall.

PM Anwar Performs Friday Prayers In Bukit Mertajam

BUKIT MERTAJAM — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim began his one-day working visit to Penang today by performing Friday prayers at Masjid Jamek As-Syakirin in Kampung Pelet here. He .... read more

KOTA BHARU, March 20 (Bernama) -- A total of 2,384 offences were recorded using drones during the three-day implementation of Ops Hari Raya Aidilfitri (HRA) 2026 which began on March 16. Road Transport Department (JPJ) Enforcement senior director Datuk Muhammad Kifli Ma Hassan said the four main offences identified were 715 cases of overtaking on double lanes, 627 cases of not obeying traffic lights, 539 cases of overtaking on the left, and 503 cases of using emergency lanes. "Every offence recorded will be used as evidence and JPJ will issue an interview notice to the vehicle owner involved," he told reporters after Ops HRA 2026 at the JPJ Wilayah Timur Academy here last night. He said 200 traffic offences could be detected using drone technology in just 45 minutes, thus proving the effectiveness of using drones in enforcement operations. He said that so far, JPJ has six drone units for use at its headquarters and plans are being made to expand their use in all future operations. "The use of these drones is not intended to find road user offences, but rather as a proactive measure to record and identify offences that are the cause of accidents. "This approach focuses on safety aspects by ensuring that road users are more disciplined and obey the law," he said. He said that a review of the JPJ database found that 288 hotspots were identified nationwide based on high accident rates and traffic offences. "The three states that recorded the highest number were Kelantan (53 locations), Sarawak (50) and Perak (34). "In Kelantan, the most significant offences detected involved cutting queue and violating traffic lights. All of these offences involved provisions under the Road Transport Act 1987," he said. He said users who received the notice could make a compound payment within 15 days to enjoy a 50 per cent discount, bringing the total payment to RM150 after deductions. "JPJ stressed that the use of high-capacity drones, including a zoom function of up to 200 times, allows vehicle registration numbers to be clearly identified even from a long distance," he said.

Ops HRA 2026 : Over 2,000 Offences Recorded With Drone – JPJ

KOTA BHARU — A total of 2,384 traffic offences were detected using drone technology during the three-day implementation of Ops Hari Raya Aidilfitri (HRA) 2026, which began on March 16. .... read more

Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to global peace following discussions with Narendra Modi on escalating tensions in West Asia. In a statement, Anwar said he appreciated Modi’s message to Malaysians in conjunction with the upcoming Eid al-Fitr celebrations, describing it as a gesture of goodwill and solidarity. The two leaders focused their discussions on the deteriorating situation in West Asia, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan, which is traditionally observed as a period of peace and reflection. Anwar reiterated Malaysia’s firm stance condemning Israel’s military actions, describing them as acts of aggression and calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities. Both leaders agreed on the urgent need to promote diplomacy, constructive dialogue and peaceful resolution to conflicts. They also stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation between Malaysia and India on international platforms, including the United Nations and BRICS, to amplify calls for peace and stability. The leaders further acknowledged the growing challenges posed by the global economic climate, including its impact on food security, and pledged to enhance bilateral cooperation to address these concerns. Anwar expressed confidence that Malaysia and India will continue to reinforce their shared commitment towards ensuring global peace and stability.

Malaysia, India Call for Ceasefire and Stronger Global Cooperation Amid West Asia Tensions

KUALA LUMPUR — Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to global peace following discussions with Narendra Modi on escalating tensions in West Asia. In a statement, Anwar said he appreciated .... read more

Dialogue with MIMCOIN Key to Sustainable, Inclusive Development–Ramanan

KUALA LUMPUR — Human Resources Minister Ramanan Ramakrishnan welcomed a courtesy visit by the Dewan Perniagaan dan Perindustrian India Muslim Malaysia (MIMCOIN) at his office, describing the engagement as a .... read more

The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) will call 14 more individuals to record their statements in the investigation of sabotaging national stability involving influential individuals and foreign media. Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail said police have completed the list of the individuals concerned. According to him, so far, a total of 14 individuals had their statements recorded and police are currently looking into the statements besides continuing further investigations. "We are still studying and conducting other investigations and we may take the statements of several more individuals and from there we will conclude and we will submit to the Attorney General (AG). "I understand that there are 14 more people whose statements we will take and God willing, if everything is completed, we will send them to the AG," he said in a press conference at Bukit Aman police headquarters, here today. Commenting on the question of whether Toh Puan Nai'mah Khalid is included in the list, he refused to confirm the matter for now. "I do not want to detail any individuals. The investigation is still ongoing, let us do it and when it is finished, we will call for investigation," he explained. In a separate development, Mohd Khalid announced that police have begun an investigation into international news portal, Bloomberg, regarding an article on Tan Sri Azam Baki's share ownership and the issue of corporate manipulation. According to him, the investigation team has already visited the portal's office located at Petronas Towers to meet with several staff for initial documentation purposes. He said the investigation found that the main individuals who are directly related to the writing are based abroad. "For further action we will work through G2G (government-to-government) or agency-to-agency to obtain cooperation from the relevant parties," he said.

Sabotaging National Stability: Statement To Be Taken From 14 More Individuals

KUALA LUMPUR — The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) will call 14 more individuals to record their statements in the investigation of sabotaging national stability involving influential individuals and foreign media. .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, March 18 (Bernama) -- The recent presence of two United States Navy vessels in Penang was a routine port of call for logistical purposes that had received official approval from the Malaysian government. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, in a statement, said that USS Santa Barbara (LCS 32) and USS Tulsa (LCS 16) docked at the North Butterworth Container Terminal (NBCT) from March 14 to 16. He said the stopover enabled the vessels to carry out replenishment, maintenance and provide rest for crew members before continuing their voyage. “Port of call visits by foreign naval vessels at Malaysian ports are not new and have long been part of established international defence relations. “Malaysia has clear procedures in place, where every docking request must go through official channels and is subject to approval by the Malaysian government,” he said. Mohamed Khaled said such visits are part of efforts to enhance confidence-building measures while safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He added that the practice is in line with the Defence White Paper to ensure regional stability and global peace. Malaysia received a total of 75 visits by foreign naval vessels from 14 countries throughout 2025. Among the countries that have made port calls in Malaysia are Australia, China, the United Kingdom, Japan, France, Indonesia, Singapore and the United States.

US Navy Vessels’ Stop In Penang Routine, Approved By Govt – Khaled

KUALA LUMPUR — The recent presence of two United States Navy vessels in Penang was a routine port of call for logistical purposes that had received official approval from the .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, March 18 (Bernama) — Sungai Buloh MP Datuk Seri R. Ramanan has channelled nearly RM800,000 towards implementing various community initiatives in the constituency since 2023. In a statement today, Ramanan, who is also Human Resources Minister, said the amount was contributed from his salary and allowances to assist those in need and support community institutions regardless of race or religion. According to the statement, for this year alone, RM65,200 has been distributed, including contributions to mosques, surau, temples and churches, as well as infaq Jumaat and programmes throughout Ramadan. In addition, 10,000 portions of bubur lambuk were distributed across the constituency this year, marking the fourth consecutive year of the initiative. In conjunction with Aidilfitri, 3,350 food baskets were also distributed to low-income (B40) families to help ease the cost-of-living burden. The statement also noted the implementation of the Ihya’ Ramadan programme through the Sungai Buloh Parliamentary Service Centre, in collaboration with government agencies, involving an allocation of RM80,350. “This is not about the amount, but about responsibility. What was promised must be translated into consistent action,” he said.

Ramanan Channels Nearly RM800,000 Into Sungai Buloh Community Initiatives

KUALA LUMPUR — Sungai Buloh MP Datuk Seri R. Ramanan has channelled nearly RM800,000 towards implementing various community initiatives in the constituency since 2023. In a statement today, Ramanan, who .... read more