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SOOK, May 22 -- About 1,000 trees of various species were planted today in a symbolic effort to strengthen the ecosystem, stabilise the climate and safeguard the sustainability of the country’s economy. Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said the Sook Lake Forest Reserve in Pensiangan was selected as the venue for the tree-planting programme held in conjunction with the National-level International Day of Forests 2026 celebration. He said the three-day programme, which runs until Sunday, is being carried out in collaboration with local leaders, corporate partners, and participation from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Sook and SMK TrusMadi students. “I urge the community, especially the younger generation, to take the opportunity to become agents of change by making tree planting a continuous practice and a way of life for a sustainable future,” he said in a post on his official Facebook page today. The Pensiangan member of Parliament said this year’s celebration, themed ‘Forests and Economies’, aims to highlight green resources as a highly valuable alternative economic source for communities, particularly in rural areas, whether through ecotourism, sustainable forest products or sustainable agriculture. He said Sabah is fortunate to be among the regions with the highest forest cover in Malaysia, and all parties are urged to continue fostering a love for the environment for future sustainability. “Our forests, our treasure, our shared responsibility,” he added. -- BERNAMA

1,000 Trees Planted In Sook To Mark International Day Of Forests Celebration

SOOK, May 22 — About 1,000 trees of various species were planted today in a symbolic effort to strengthen the ecosystem, stabilise the climate and safeguard the sustainability of the .... read more

MACC To File Appeal After Bid To Freeze RM548 Mln Is Rejected

KUALA LUMPUR, May 22 — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) will file a notice of appeal against the Kuala Lumpur High Court’s decision today, which dismissed the prosecution’s application for .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, May 22 -- The Special Task Force on Agency Reform (STAR) has agreed to prioritise local think tanks and consultants in advisory roles to the government, while accelerating digitalisation initiatives in public services said Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar. In a Facebook post today, he said the decision was reached during STAR’s fifth meeting this year, which he chaired this morning He said the meeting focused on two key areas - the implementation of small-scale projects benefiting the public, including the maintenance of schools, public toilets and community facilities, as well as issues related to the cost of living and job opportunities. “Amid global economic uncertainty, STAR is seeking solutions to strengthen the implementation of government strategies,” he said. In a separate Facebook post, Shamsul Azri said he also met industry representatives and chambers of commerce through the Special Task Force to Facilitate Business (PEMUDAH) after the STAR meeting. He said discussions centred on streamlining tribunal mechanisms to resolve technical disputes in the construction industry, while reducing regulatory burdens to improve productivity and competitiveness. “In efforts to drive the national economy, I believe the government and industry must continue working closely and strengthening one another,” he said. -- BERNAMA

STAR To Prioritise Local Advisers, Speed Up Digitalisation – Shamsul Azri

PUTRAJAYA, May 22 — The Special Task Force on Agency Reform (STAR) has agreed to prioritise local think tanks and consultants in advisory roles to the government, while accelerating digitalisation .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 22 -- Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today shared that he had the opportunity to speak and exchange greetings with C. Joseph Vijay, once again extends his congratulations on the immense responsibility entrusted to him in serving the people of Tamil Nadu. During the conversation, Anwar also informed the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister of his upcoming visit to India in September to attend the BRICS Summit and hold discussions with Narendra Modi. He added that, should time permit, he hopes to make a brief visit to Tamil Nadu as part of the trip. Prime Minister Anwar expressed his hope that Chief Minister Vijay will continue to be blessed with strength and wisdom to lead and administer the state effectively for the well-being of the people and a prosperous future for Tamil Nadu. -- MINUTESMY --SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

PM Anwar Congratulates Tamil Nadu CM C. Joseph Vijay, Eyes Visit During India Trip for BRICS Summit

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 22 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today shared that he had the opportunity to speak and exchange greetings with C. Joseph Vijay, once again extends his congratulations .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 22 -- Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today expressed gratitude for the opportunity to perform Friday prayers at Al-Muttaqin Mosque in Wangsa Melawati alongside members of the local congregation and community on the first Friday of the month of Zulhijjah. In a statement, Anwar said today’s sermon, titled “Arafah the Day of Resurrection”, highlighted the significance of Arafah Day on 9 Zulhijjah, which will be observed soon by Muslims performing the haj pilgrimage. He said the massive gathering during Arafah symbolises not only the unity of Muslims worldwide, but also serves as a reminder for the ummah to strengthen values, character and resilience in facing present-day challenges. Anwar also prayed for all Malaysian haj pilgrims and guests of Allah SWT, known as Duyufur Rahman, to be blessed with good health, remain focused on their worship, and be granted an accepted haj by Allah SWT. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

PM Anwar Ibrahim Performs Friday Prayers at Al-Muttaqin Mosque, Prays for Pilgrims Ahead of Arafah Day

KUALA LUMPUR, May 22 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today expressed gratitude for the opportunity to perform Friday prayers at Al-Muttaqin Mosque in Wangsa Melawati alongside members of the local .... read more

SEREMBAN, May 22 -- The dissolution of the Johor State Legislative Assembly to pave the way for a state election is the absolute prerogative of the King, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, according to Barisan Nasional (BN) deputy chairman Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. He said the party was confident that Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi would advise Sultan Ibrahim, who is the Sultan of Johor, on the appropriate timing for the state election. “It could be soon, it could be later, that depends on the Menteri Besar’s discretion. So far, however, there have been no official discussions at the party headquarters or central leadership level. “I am confident that once the Menteri Besar receives the green light or royal consent, he will consult the central leadership so that preparations for the state election can be planned together,” he told reporters after officiating the SMK Seri Sendayan Athletics Championship, here today. On May 16, Onn Hafiz, who is also Johor BN chairman, announced that the coalition would contest all 56 state seats in the upcoming state election. In the 2022 state polls, BN won 40 seats, while Pakatan Harapan secured 12, Perikatan Nasional three and MUDA one. Meanwhile, the UMNO deputy president also reminded all parties to handle any political turmoil maturely and prudently to ensure that the well-being of the people continues to be preserved. “We do not want the people to feel uneasy. All decisions or actions must be done properly because our purpose as a government is to help the people, not to burden them,” he said. In another development, Mohamad, who is also Rembau MP and Rantau assemblyman, said the government had approved the construction of two new schools in Bandar Sri Sendayan to address overcrowding among students in the area. He said the projects, involving a secondary and primary school, had entered the tender stage with a total allocation of about RM135 million. -- BERNAMA

Dissolution Of Johor State Assembly Absolute Prerogative Of Sultan Ibrahim – Mohamad Hasan

SEREMBAN, May 22 — The dissolution of the Johor State Legislative Assembly to pave the way for a state election is the absolute prerogative of the King, His Majesty Sultan .... read more

JOHOR BAHRU, May 22 -- Police have arrested a man to assist investigations into a molestation case involving a school student in the Seri Alam area here, which has gone viral on social media since yesterday. Johor Police acting chief DCP Hoo Chuan Huat said the 28-year-old suspect was picked up at about 10.30 pm yesterday. He said the arrest was made following a report lodged by the victim’s mother, a 37-year-old local woman, at 9 pm the same day. “The victim’s mother reported that the molestation incident had actually taken place in 2025 in the Seri Alam area,” he said in a statement here today. Hoo said a six-day remand order from today under Section 117 of the Criminal Procedure Code had been granted by the Johor Bahru Magistrates’ Court to facilitate further investigations. The suspect tested negative for drugs and he had no prior criminal record, he said, adding that the case was being investigated under Section 14(a) of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017. Earlier, police detected a viral post uploaded by Facebook account holder ‘Mohd Fadli Salleh’ relating to the incident. Meanwhile, the Johor Education Department, in a separate statement, said it hoped police would conduct a professional and thorough investigation so that appropriate legal action can be taken if the suspect is found guilty. “At the same time, the Johor Education Department is also working with the Social Welfare Department to ensure the victim is protected and her welfare is safeguarded,” it said. It added that members of the public facing similar cases are also advised to lodge police reports and not withdraw them so that investigations and firm action can be taken by the authorities. -- BERNAMA

Police Arrest Man Suspected Of Molesting School Student In Seri Alam

JOHOR BAHRU, May 22 — Police have arrested a man to assist investigations into a molestation case involving a school student in the Seri Alam area here, which has gone .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 22 -- Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo today shared that he had a productive meeting with the Executive Director of LBS Bina Group Berhad alongside investors from China to discuss potential data centre investment opportunities in Malaysia. The discussion also involved Tenaga Hijau Ventures Sdn Bhd and Trina Solar, reflecting growing international confidence in Malaysia as a strategic hub for sustainable digital infrastructure and future-ready data centre development. According to Gobind, the meeting highlighted the importance of strengthening collaboration between government agencies, industry players and foreign investors in supporting Malaysia’s digital transformation agenda. He noted that the increasing demand for digital services and cloud infrastructure has positioned the country as an attractive destination for data centre investments in the region. He added that data centres play a crucial role as a catalyst for Malaysia’s digitalisation efforts, driving innovation, economic growth and technology adoption across industries. With the right investments and strategic partnerships, Malaysia can continue to develop infrastructure that not only powers businesses and industries, but also delivers long-term benefits to the rakyat. Gobind also stressed the importance of ensuring that future developments focus on sustainability and green energy solutions, in line with the nation’s aspirations towards a more environmentally responsible digital economy. The involvement of renewable energy and solar technology companies in the discussions further demonstrates the growing emphasis on sustainable infrastructure in the data centre sector. Malaysia has increasingly become a preferred destination for technology and digital infrastructure investments due to its strategic location, strong connectivity, skilled workforce and supportive government policies aimed at accelerating the digital economy.

YB Gobind Singh Deo Discusses Data Centre Investments with China Investors and Industry Players

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 22 — Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo today shared that he had a productive meeting with the Executive Director of LBS Bina Group Berhad alongside investors from .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 22 -- Families of inmates at all prison institutions, including Moral Rehabilitation Centres, Special Rehabilitation Centres, Special Detention Facilities and Henry Gurney Schools, are allowed to visit them for the Aidiladha celebration on the third and fourth days of the festive period. The Prisons Department, in a statement, said that visiting hours have been set from 8.15 am to 4.15 pm, on May 29 and 30, with priority given to Muslim inmates. “Visitors are not allowed to bring food and drinks for inmates. Instead, these may be purchased at the prison canteen,” it said. In addition, visitors are discouraged from giving money to inmates as all basic necessities have been provided, except for certain matters such as examination fee payments, which require them to obtain an official PPT 28 receipt from the prison authorities as proof of payment. It added that visitors are subject to the Prison Act and Prison Regulations, which allow prison authorities to conduct physical inspections upon entry to and exit from the institutions. Meanwhile, for families unable to visit the prisons in person, online meetings will also be made available for three days from May 30 to June 1. Families seeking further information may contact the relevant institutions. -- BERNAMA

Prisons Dept Allows Family Visits In Conjunction With Aidiladha On May 29-30

KUALA LUMPUR, May 22 — Families of inmates at all prison institutions, including Moral Rehabilitation Centres, Special Rehabilitation Centres, Special Detention Facilities and Henry Gurney Schools, are allowed to visit .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 22 -- Anwar Ibrahim today took the opportunity to conduct an operational review at Hospital Kuala Lumpur while spending time greeting patients and members of the public receiving treatment at the hospital. During the visit, the Prime Minister expressed his concern and prayers for patients undergoing treatment, hoping for their speedy recovery and strength in facing their health challenges. “My prayers are for them to be healed, to have all their affairs eased, and to continue being blessed with strength,” he said. Anwar also conveyed his appreciation to the healthcare workers at HKL for their unwavering commitment and sacrifices in caring for the people every day. He praised the dedication shown by doctors, nurses, and medical staff who continue to serve with patience, compassion, and professionalism despite the demanding nature of their responsibilities. The Prime Minister emphasized that healthcare workers remain among the nation’s unsung heroes, playing a vital role in safeguarding the well-being and welfare of Malaysians. The visit reflects the MADANI Government’s continued attention towards strengthening the country’s healthcare system while ensuring the welfare of both patients and frontliners remains a priority. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim Visits HKL, Extends Support to Patients and Frontliners

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 22 — PM Anwar Ibrahim today took the opportunity to conduct an operational review at Hospital Kuala Lumpur while spending time greeting patients and members of the .... read more

Latest News

GEORGE TOWN, JUNE 18 -- The organisation of the National Journalists' Day Summit (HAWANA) 2026 in Penang will catalyse the state's tourism sector and creative economy through large-scale media exposure that can strengthen the Penang brand at the regional level. The state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman, Wong Hon Wai, said that the selection of Penang as the host of HAWANA for the first time was a recognition of the state's ability as the country's main tourism destination and a location for organising international-class events. He said the prestigious event, which brought together more than 1,000 media practitioners and delegates from Malaysia and ASEAN countries, opened up a wide opportunity to introduce the uniqueness of Penang's cultural heritage, gastronomic diversity, tourism products and the strength of the creative economy sector. "Through the presence of media from across the country and the ASEAN region, Penang will receive extensive and high-value exposure, thus strengthening its position as one of the major tourist destinations in Malaysia. "This is also expected to have a direct and indirect economic impact on the state because the presence of thousands of visitors and media personnel will increase demand for hotel services, food and beverage, transportation, shopping centres and local tourist attractions," he told Bernama, today. Commenting on the state's level of preparedness as the host, Wong said that initial feedback from tourism industry players saw hotel room booking rates showing an encouraging increase in conjunction with HAWANA 2026. He said that Seberang Perai, which was chosen as the main location for the program, has sufficient accommodation capacity to accommodate participants and visitors throughout the three-day event from June 19 to 21. Meanwhile, he described the media as an important strategic partner in efforts to promote tourist destinations and strengthen the development of a state's creative economy. Wong said the media helps introduce destinations, promote tourism products and build visitor confidence through the delivery of accurate and effective information. "For the creative economy sector, the media helps highlight local talent, artwork, cultural events and creative initiatives that can increase the economic value and identity of a state. "Therefore, the state government appreciates the contribution of the media as a development partner that helps drive the growth of tourism, the creative economy and the positive image of Penang at the national and international levels," he said. Wong is confident that organizing HAWANA 2026 will leave a positive impact not only on the media industry, but also on the entire tourism ecosystem and creative economy of Penang. The HAWANA 2026 Summit, which will be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on June 20 at the PICCA Convention Centre @ Butterworth Arena, is expected to be attended by approximately 1,000 media practitioners from home and abroad. Taking up the theme "Media with Integrity, Core Credibility", HAWANA 2026, organised by the Ministry of Communications with the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) as the implementing agency, is a platform to celebrate the contributions, perseverance and professionalism of media practitioners in this country. In conjunction with HAWANA 2026, the RIUH Pi HAWANA Carnival will also be held at the PICCA Convention Centre @ Butterworth Arena which will last for three days starting tomorrow. The carnival is expected to attract approximately 30,000 visitors and bring together more than 24 local creative product brands and 20 food and beverage vendors, in addition to interactive workshops that give the public the opportunity to explore various creative activities. Apart from that, visitors will also be entertained by 16 stage performances featuring local artists such as Exists, Bunkface, Masdo, Sakura Band, Budak Nakal Hujung Simpang and Chelsea Ng with free admission. -- BERNAMA

HAWANA 2026 will be a catalyst for Penang’s tourism and creative economy – Exco

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 18 -- Malaysia supports Turkey's aspirations to become an ASEAN Dialogue Partner. In a statement, the Malaysian Embassy in Ankara announced that the matter was conveyed by the Malaysian Ambassador to Turkey, Adlan Mohd Shaffieq, when he officially presented his Letters of Credence to the President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the Presidential Complex on June 17. The Ambassador stressed that Turkey is emerging as an increasingly important partner for Southeast Asia through its growing economic involvement, strategic outlook and increasingly strong people-to-people ties with ASEAN member countries. He also conveyed greetings and congratulations from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim and Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to Erdogan. The Ambassador also stressed Malaysia's commitment to continue strengthening the long-standing friendship and strategic partnership with Turkey, which continues to grow through regular high-level engagements and closer cooperation, particularly in the fields of education, defence and the halal industry. "Malaysia and Turkey share a special relationship built on trust, respect and shared aspirations for peace, prosperity and development. "Based on the strong personal relationship between President Erdogan and Prime Minister Anwar, we should leverage their shared vision to deepen cooperation in all sectors," he said. Erdogan, when welcoming the Ambassador, also expressed confidence that trade relations between the two countries would continue to grow and reach the target of US$10 billion.

Malaysia supports Turkey’s aspiration to become ASEAN Dialogue Partner

KUALA LUMPUR: The Chief Executive Officer of Stadium Malaysia Corporation (PSM) was charged in the Sessions Court here today with seven counts of corruption totaling RM1.45 million in relation to the RM8.7 million tender to upgrade the Bukit Jalil National Squash Centre. Iliyas Jamil, 42, pleaded not guilty after all charges were read out before Judge Suzana Hussin. According to the first charge, Iliyas is accused of soliciting a bribe of RM1 million for himself from Yap Yeow Kuen, 60, at the Stadium Malaysia Corporation Office, Level 2, Kuala Lumpur Sports Center (KLSC) National Stadium, Sri Petaling here, on Feb 24. The money was in return for the accused agreeing to choose Yap's company, Aerolux Power Constructions Sdn Bhd, to win the tender for the Upgrading of Sports Courts & Facilities Project at the National Squash Centre, Kuala Lumpur Sports City Bukit Jalil here, worth RM8,733,197. The charge was brought under Section 16(a)(B) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Act 2009 which is punishable under Section 24(1) of the same act, which provides for a maximum prison sentence of 20 years and a fine of not less than five times the amount or value of the bribe or RM10,000, whichever is higher. For the second to seventh charges, Iliyas is charged with receiving a cash bribe of RM450,000 from Yap as a reward for choosing Aerolux Power Constructions to win the project tender. The accused is charged with committing the offence at the PSM office and a restaurant in Sri Petaling, between Feb 25 and April 13, under Section 16(a)(B) of the MACC Act 2009 which is punishable under Section 24 (1) which provides for the same punishment. In today's proceedings, the prosecution was conducted by Deputy Public Prosecutor Noralis Mat while the accused was represented by lawyer Mohd Yusmadi Mohd Yusoff. Earlier, Noralis offered bail of RM200,000 with one Malaysian surety taking into account the status of the accused and the seriousness of the offence. "Our side is also requesting additional conditions, namely that the accused's travel documents be submitted to the court, report to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission office once a month and not interfere with prosecution witnesses," he said. Mohd Yusmadi, on the other hand, applied for bail of between RM50,000 and RM80,000 as his client is still young and has a child who is still in school and is currently suspended from duty. Suzana allowed Iliyas to be bailed at RM100,000 with a Malaysian surety and allowed the additional conditions requested by the prosecution and not to interfere with the prosecution witnesses until the case is concluded. The court also set July 27 for mention of the case for the submission of documents. -- BERNAMA

CEO of Stadium Malaysia charged with corruption in Bukit Jalil National Squash Centre project

JOHOR BAHRU, JUNE 18 -- Being a poster boy or the main character representing a party's campaign in an election is not a guarantee of being appointed as Menteri Besar if a new government is successfully formed. Johor Menteri Besar, Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, said that the approval of the palace, especially the Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim and the Regent Sultan of Johor Tunku Mahkota Ismail, was very important in determining who would lead the state government. "As Menteri Besar, I will be seen as the ' poster boy ', that's normal." "But we are clear that whatever the circumstances, the one who will determine who the menteri besar is is the Sultan of Johor or the Regent Sultan of Johor." "The approval of the Johor Palace is very important," he said in a special interview with print media practitioners and news portals at Saujana, his official residence, yesterday. The poster boy strategy , which is usually used in every election, is important to build and attract voter confidence to support candidates from the contesting party. He also shared advice from the Johor Palace for all parties to maintain good manners and discipline during the campaign period. He said that mutual respect is important to practice despite differences in political beliefs and ideologies. "There's no need to curse or insult. Maintain good manners, that's what your Majesty says," he said. In another development, Onn Hafiz said that feedback from the Johor Palace and the people was one of the yardsticks used to see their performance level over the past four years. "For me and all the Exco members, I always remind myself and them that feedback on the government's performance needs to come from two parties, not just from me." "When the people and the Palace say that we have carried out our duties well, that is when we can consider that the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) set have been successfully achieved. "But if one of them, whether it's the Royal Institution or the people, gives feedback that we're not doing our job well, in my opinion, we're not doing our responsibility well. We're always sensitive to the feedback given," he said. The Johor state election is set for July 11, while the nomination of candidates is on June 27. -- BERNAMA

Johor election: “Poster boy” is no guarantee of becoming MB – Onn Hafiz

ST. PETERSBURG, June 18 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim attended the Gala Dinner held in conjunction with the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit, hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The event showcased Russia's rich cultural heritage and history, highlighting the country's diverse traditions and the significant contributions of Islamic civilisation in shaping its national identity and societal development. Beyond the cultural presentations, the gala dinner provided an important platform for leaders from ASEAN member states and Russia to strengthen friendships, exchange views, and foster closer cooperation on issues of mutual interest. Anwar said such engagements are particularly valuable at a time when the global community continues to face various challenges and uncertainties, ranging from geopolitical tensions to economic and security concerns. He noted that opportunities for direct interaction among leaders help deepen mutual understanding, build trust, and explore new avenues of collaboration that can bring tangible benefits to both ASEAN and Russia. The ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit serves as a key platform to enhance dialogue and cooperation across multiple sectors, reflecting the longstanding partnership between ASEAN and Russia and their shared commitment to regional stability, sustainable development, and economic growth. The summit brings together leaders from ASEAN member countries and Russia to discuss strategic issues and strengthen ties amid an increasingly complex global landscape.

PM Anwar Attends ASEAN-Russia Summit Gala Dinner Hosted by President Putin