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KUALA LUMPUR, May 26 — Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Datuk Seri Ramanan Ramakrishnan yesterday  received a farewell courtesy call from the High Commissioner of India to Malaysia, TYT B.N. Reddy, who is concluding his diplomatic service in the country. Ramanan expressed his highest appreciation for B.N. Reddy’s commitment and significant contributions in strengthening the longstanding friendship and strategic cooperation between Malaysia and India throughout his tenure. He said the meeting also provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on the growing landscape of future cooperation between Malaysia and India, particularly as both nations continue to strengthen their positions as comprehensive strategic partners. According to Ramanan, B.N. Reddy played an important role not only in enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors, but also in fostering a relationship built on mutual respect, trust and friendship between the two countries. He reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to further expanding its strong bilateral ties with India for the mutual benefit of both nations, while supporting regional economic development and promoting a more inclusive and sustainable future for the people of both countries.  -- MINUTESMY  -- SOURCE : FB RAMANAN RAMAKRISHNAN 

Datuk Seri Ramanan Ramakrishnan: Malaysia, India Committed to Expanding Strategic Partnership

KUALA LUMPUR, May 26 — Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Datuk Seri Ramanan Ramakrishnan yesterday received a farewell courtesy call from the High Commissioner of India to Malaysia, .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, May 26 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil today shared the National Security Council’s (MKN) assurance that all military training activities conducted by the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) will continue to adhere to strict operational procedures, safety guidelines and environmental considerations. In a media statement issued by the National Security Council under the Prime Minister’s Department, MKN said the council meeting held on May 25 reaffirmed support for ATM’s commitment to ensuring every military exercise and operation is carried out professionally, systematically and in compliance with all established procedures and regulations.            The statement noted that all military exercises are subject to a stringent approval process involving coordination with relevant ministries, agencies and state-level authorities, including the State Security Working Committee (JKKN) chaired by the respective Menteri Besar or Chief Minister. MKN said applications for military exercises must be submitted within the stipulated timeframe to ensure that safety aspects, procedural compliance and local sensitivities are properly addressed before activities are conducted. The council also stressed that standard operating procedures (SOPs) related to military exercises will continue to be improved from time to time. Post-exercise assessments will also be conducted to review effectiveness, identify impacts and determine responsibility for any repair works arising from damages caused during exercises. According to the statement, national defence preparedness remains an important element in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty, security and strategic interests. At the same time, MKN emphasised that local sensitivities must continue to be taken into account through ongoing engagement and coordination with all stakeholders. MKN added that military exercises are implemented through close cooperation between the Malaysian Armed Forces, state governments and relevant agencies to ensure defence activities are carried out in an organised, safe and prudent manner in line with national security interests and public well-being.  -- MINUTESMY  -- SOURCE : FB FAHMI FADZIL 

YB Fahmi Fadzil: National Security Council Affirms Commitment to Safe, Coordinated Military Exercises

PUTRAJAYA, May 26 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil today shared the National Security Council’s (MKN) assurance that all military training activities conducted by the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) will continue .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, May 26 — Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo yesterday received a courtesy visit from YBhg. Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah bin Haji Zaidel, Deputy Secretary of the Government of Sarawak (Economic Planning & Development), alongside Dr Kho Lip Khoon, Assistant Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Energy & Environmental Sustainability Sarawak, for a discussion focused on Sarawak’s industrial transformation agenda. The meeting provided an opportunity for Gobind to gain deeper insight into the Sarawak Transitioning Industrial Cluster (TIC) Bintulu, recognised as Malaysia’s first World Economic Forum Industrial Transformation Initiative. The initiative is scheduled to be officially launched during the APGH 2026 event in Kuching from June 9 to 11. Gobind said the discussions highlighted the importance of strategic collaboration in supporting Malaysia’s aspirations to strengthen the digital economy while accelerating the transformation of the nation’s industries through innovation and sustainable development. He also expressed interest in seeing how the TIC Bintulu initiative could contribute towards enhancing industrial digitalisation and positioning Malaysia as a competitive regional hub for future-ready industries. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB GOBIND SINGH DEO

YB Gobind Singh Deo Engages Sarawak Leaders on TIC Bintulu Initiative Ahead of APGH 2026

PUTRAJAYA, May 26 — Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo yesterday received a courtesy visit from YBhg. Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah bin Haji Zaidel, Deputy Secretary of the Government of .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR: Kuala Lumpur has the potential to rival major regional concert destinations such as Singapore, but stronger coordination in the country's live entertainment ecosystem is needed to attract more international tours and global artists. Live Nation Malaysia Managing Director, Paramananthan Rajagopal said the city has many of the key elements needed to become a major tour destination in Asia including infrastructure, passionate fans and strategic location, however improvements in terms of coordination, venue readiness and industry support remain essential. "Actually, Kuala Lumpur has everything. In fact, maybe better than some other cities, but what we need now is coordination. "An event cannot be made successful by one individual alone. All parties need to work together to ensure that a performance can be held," he told reporters after the launch of the KL Headline Season 2026 here, last night. Paramananthan said the live entertainment industry in Malaysia needs to work together to strengthen the international perception of Kuala Lumpur as a trusted concert destination. "Most international artists and management teams will search for Kuala Lumpur on Google before deciding to tour. Sometimes, what pops up in those searches are stories about cancellations, protests or approval issues (of a concert). "However, in a country like Singapore, the narrative is different. They promote positive things and position the country as a concert destination," he said. He said the issue was not just about facilities, as Kuala Lumpur already had the infrastructure needed to host large-scale productions, although some venues needed improvements to meet the expectations of fans and productions. "Fans pay high prices for tickets. They expect more comfortable seats, clearer views and better facilities. Therefore, venue maintenance and upgrades are very important," he said. Paramananthan said venue availability is one of the biggest challenges facing concert organisers in the country, especially when international tours operate according to a set schedule across various countries. "Our problem behind the scenes is the availability of venues. Tours already have fixed dates and sometimes we can't change them because there are no venues," he said, adding that some countries prioritize international artist tours as part of a broader economic strategy. He said the live entertainment industry should no longer be seen as mere entertainment, but rather concerts also generate huge economic spillovers in the tourism, hospitality, retail and transportation sectors. Malaysia has organised more than 400 concerts in 2024, generating more than RM553 million in tourism and economic impact, while for this year, the industry is expected to contribute almost RM1.7 billion to the national economy, he said. Paramananthan said that fans from neighbouring countries including Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Taiwan, Hong Kong and the Philippines are increasingly coming to Kuala Lumpur, specifically to attend concerts, reflecting the capital's growing influence in the regional live entertainment landscape. He said the newly launched KL Headline Season 2026 was created to place Kuala Lumpur firmly on the global tour map and establish the city as the premier entertainment capital in Asia. The launch was attended by Communications Minister, Datuk Fahmi Fadzil and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories), Hannah Yeoh. The initiative, developed by Live Nation Malaysia in collaboration with PR Worldwide, Tourism Malaysia and CelcomDigi, is expected to bring 25 international music acts across six major venues throughout 2026, attracting an estimated 500,000 fans from Malaysia and across the region, with a roster of artists including big names such as Post Malone, The Weeknd, BTS, Laufey and LANY. -- BERNAMA

KL has the potential to become a major regional concert destination – Live Nation

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 26 — Kuala Lumpur has the potential to rival major regional concert destinations such as Singapore, but stronger coordination in the country’s live entertainment ecosystem is needed .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 26 -- Two local hardened criminals were shot dead in a shootout with Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) forces at Jalan Persiaran Seri Putra 2, Bandar Seri Putra, in Kajang, Selangor, on Sunday night. Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director, Datuk M. Kumar, said the exchange of gunfire involving the police and criminals occurred at 9.10pm. He said investigations found that both suspects were suspected of being involved in several robbery cases around the Klang Valley. "An inspection (at the scene) found a revolver pistol as well as several bullets and bullet casings. Also found were four machete blades, burglary equipment, face masks and gloves," he said in a statement last night. Kumar said a press conference regarding the incident would be held today. -- BERNAMA

Two hardcore criminals killed in shootout with police in Kajang

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 26 — Two local hardened criminals were shot dead in a shootout with Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) forces at Jalan Persiaran Seri Putra 2, Bandar .... read more

KUANTAN, MAY 26 -- The operator of the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway (KLK) and East Coast Expressway 1 (LPT 1), AFA Prime Bhd (AFA Prime), estimates that the total traffic will reach more than 3 million from May 22 to June 2 on the highways following the Aidiladha celebrations and public holidays. Chairman of the Pahang Public Works, Transport and Health Committee, Datuk Razali Kassim said the number of vehicles on the KLK Highway is expected to reach 2.18 million, while LPT1 is estimated to receive 843,000 vehicles during that period. He said the figures showed an increase of 66 percent on the KLK Highway and 71 percent on LPT1 compared to normal days. "This significant increase in traffic flow also requires all road users to be more disciplined, always vigilant and obey traffic laws to ensure a safer and smoother journey throughout the festive season," he said. He said this at a press conference after completing the Road Safety Advocacy Programme in conjunction with the 2026 Aidiladha Celebrations at the Gambang Rest and Treatment (R&R) area, here, on Monday. Razali said the state government also called on the public to plan their journeys and comply with the Recommended Travel Time Schedule (TTA) issued by AFA Prime to help smooth the flow of traffic throughout the festive season. At the same time, he informed that the Road Transport Department (JPJ) is implementing the Hari Raya Aidiladha Special Operation (HRAA) 2026 from May 24 to 31, involving 287 enforcement personnel who are fully ready. -- BERNAMA

More than three million vehicles expected to use KLK, LPT1 Expressways in conjunction with Aidiladha

KUANTAN, MAY 26 — The operator of the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway (KLK) and East Coast Expressway 1 (LPT 1), AFA Prime Bhd (AFA Prime), estimates that the total traffic will .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 26 -- A man believed to be the leader of the notorious Rames Gang was arrested during an international flight operation last Friday under Op Tiga, following close cooperation between Malaysian, Thai and Indian authorities. Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director M. Kumar said the suspect was detained while travelling on a flight from Bangkok, Thailand to Hyderabad, India, before being brought back to Malaysia for further investigation. According to Kumar, the suspect is being investigated under Section 130V of the Penal Code for alleged involvement in an organised crime group. The offence carries a prison sentence of between five and 20 years upon conviction. He added that the suspect, who has been remanded until Friday, is also being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder. Kumar said the Sungai Petani Magistrate’s Court in Kedah had issued an arrest warrant against the suspect on March 25 in connection with two separate murder cases in Padang Serai and Bedong that took place in February and August last year. He also revealed that Interpol issued a Red Notice against the suspect on April 24, paving the way for international cooperation in tracking and arresting him. The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), he said, expressed appreciation to both Indian and Thai authorities for their assistance in the operation. “PDRM remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring national security as well as public safety are continuously protected,” Kumar said in a statement on Monday. -- MINUTESMY / SUGAN BALAN

Interpol-Wanted Rames Gang Leader Arrested During International Flight

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 26 — A man believed to be the leader of the notorious Rames Gang was arrested during an international flight operation last Friday under Op Tiga, following .... read more

SHAH ALAM, May 25 -- A new commercial complex in Section 24 here, set to replace the Uptown Shah Alam business centre, is expected to be fully operational by the third quarter of this year. In a statement, the Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS) said the complex, designed with a modern Bugis concept, will house about 400 traders. It offers modern and eco-friendly facilities to enhance comfort for both visitors and traders. The initiative is part of PKNS’ efforts to strengthen urban development in Shah Alam while creating a more modern, organised and conducive business ecosystem for the local community. “The project is nearing completion and PKNS is in the process of obtaining the Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC). “The complex is also expected to become a new catalyst for business activities and attract more visitors to Shah Alam,” it said. According to PKNS, Uptown Shah Alam, which has been operating for over 10 years under its management, has become one of the main hotspots, attracting more than 1,000 visitors weekly. As such, the new development is expected to further boost Shah Alam’s appeal while expanding economic opportunities for local traders. “The two-storey building near Uptown Shah Alam will house 440 dry goods stalls and 20 food stalls in a safer and more organised setting. “It will be equipped with various facilities, including toilets, surau, a stage, lifts, escalators, more than 300 parking bays, as well as facilities for persons with disabilities (PWDs),” the statement said. In line with PKNS’ commitment to sustainability, the complex will also feature a rainwater harvesting system, natural ventilation, waste management for food stalls, and green spaces both inside and outside the building. In addition, community spaces such as a stage, open areas and concourse will create a more comfortable environment for visitors. To improve traffic flow, visitors can use the new access road at Jalan Pudina 24/41 connecting Masjid Al-Ehsan and Kompleks Warga Emas, in addition to the existing route via Persiaran Sultan. -- BERNAMA

New Uptown Shah Alam Commercial Complex To Be Operational By Third Quarter of 2026

SHAH ALAM, May 25 — A new commercial complex in Section 24 here, set to replace the Uptown Shah Alam business centre, is expected to be fully operational by the .... read more

MAKKAH, May 22 -- The Haji Lestari Campaign implemented by Malaysia provides a sustainable platform for pilgrims to recycle used ihram clothing, supporting efforts to reduce textile waste after the haj season. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan said the initiative by Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) in collaboration with the Saudi Arabian authorities forms part of efforts to instil a culture of environmental care among haj pilgrims. He said the campaign provides a comprehensive ecosystem enabling pilgrims to donate used ihram clothing, as well as to segregate other waste materials such as paper and plastic for recycling. “Haj should also encompass a dimension of environmental care. Caring for the environment is a trust and responsibility shared by all humanity, and the haj pilgrimage is one of the platforms that can reflect this commitment,” he told reporters after launching the Haji Lestari Campaign here today. He said the approach enabled ihram clothing that might previously have been thrown away or abandoned after the haj season to be given new value through recycling and upcycling. Zulkifli said the initiative implemented by Malaysia also supports Saudi Arabia’s efforts to expand circular economy practices and environmental sustainability in line with Saudi Vision 2030. He said Malaysia was among the first countries to provide a comprehensive support system to ensure the success of the sustainable haj agenda, including raising pilgrims’ awareness that environmental care is also part of their responsibility as Muslims. “Malaysia is a global leader in sustainable haj, and we want to convey the message to the international community that environmental care is an essential part of the haj experience,” he said. Zulkifli said the effort demonstrated that demonstrated that sustainable practices can be adopted even in the world’s largest gathering, making haj not only a means of spiritual purification but also a platform for promoting environmental responsibility. --BERNAMA

‘Haji Lestari’ Campaign Promotes Sustainable Haj Practices Through Ihram Clothing Recycling

MAKKAH, May 22 — The Haji Lestari Campaign implemented by Malaysia provides a sustainable platform for pilgrims to recycle used ihram clothing, supporting efforts to reduce textile waste after the .... read more

PASIR MAS: A religious teacher pleaded not guilty in the Magistrate's Court here today to four charges of physically assaulting two boys and producing obscene images. Muhammad Faiz Muhamad Ramly, 31, however, pleaded not guilty to all charges after the charges were read out before Magistrate Syed Farid Syed Ali. According to the first and second charges, he is accused of committing physical sexual assault on an eight-year-old boy at a madrasah in Jeli between 1.10 pm and 5 pm on May 9, 2026. For the third and fourth charges, he is charged with committing physical sexual assault on a six-year-old boy and producing pornographic images of the child at a house in Jeli in May 2025. The first, second and third charges were brought under Section 14(a) of the Sexual Offences against Children Act 2017 and are punishable under Section 14 of the same act which provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years' imprisonment and can also be subject to whipping. The fourth charge is under Section 5 of the Sexual Offences against Children Act 2017 which provides for a maximum sentence of 30 years' imprisonment and a minimum of six strokes of the cane. The prosecution was conducted by Deputy Public Prosecutor Siti Aiysha Nai'lah Harizan, while the accused was represented by lawyer Muhammad Zaem Ab Aziz. The court did not grant bail to the accused and set June 10 for the case to be mentioned again. -- BERNAMA

Religious teacher charged with sexually abusing two children

PASIR MAS: A religious teacher pleaded not guilty in the Magistrate’s Court here today to four charges of physically assaulting two boys and producing obscene images. Muhammad Faiz Muhamad Ramly, .... read more