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Malaysia News

KUALA LUMPUR: Repair work following the overhead line equipment (ATA) outage at KM 458.872 between Tiroi Station and Seremban has been completed and electric train services (ETS) are back in operation. However, Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB) in a statement today informed that several ETS services on the KL Sentral-JB Sentral-KL Sentral route are still experiencing temporary delays to allow the operation schedule to be stabilized. KTMB informed that as of 3.30 pm this afternoon, eight ETS services were still experiencing delays, namely train EX9573 which was three hours and 34 minutes late, EP9524 (two hours and 35 minutes), EP9326 (one hour and 40 minutes) and EP9428 (25 minutes). Also experiencing delays were trains EP9323 (two hours 11 minutes), EG9343 (one hour 14 minutes), EG9442 (two hours 51 minutes) and EX9575 (one hour). KTMB informed that ETS passengers who were affected by train delays of more than two hours and chose not to continue their journey can obtain a full fare refund at the ticket counter. "As a welfare measure and to reduce passenger inconvenience, KTMB is providing food and soft drinks to passengers on train services that were delayed by more than two hours as a thank you for your patience and cooperation throughout the disruption period," the statement said. In addition, KTMB Auxiliary Police members and operations staff at Seremban Station also helped manage passenger movements and provided the latest information to ensure the smooth running of those affected. KTMB informed that as soon as the disruption was identified, an initial notification was sent via short messaging service (SMS) to the passengers involved to inform them of the current status and expected delays to enable them to plan their journey better. "KTMB is closely monitoring train movements to ensure that the operating schedule is fully restored as soon as possible," the statement said. -- BERNAMA

ETS services resume operations, experience delays

KUALA LUMPUR: Repair work following the overhead line equipment (ATA) outage at KM 458.872 between Tiroi Station and Seremban has been completed and electric train services (ETS) are back in .... read more

JOHOR BAHRU: The new amendment to the MARA Act 1966 will be tabled in Parliament this year after the Cabinet approved the policy paper relating to the amendment. MARA chairman Datuk Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said he had been asked by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW) Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to ensure that the amendment process could be completed according to schedule to enable it to be tabled this year. "This stage is the policy stage and we will give the draft to all stakeholders, especially other ministries, to be evaluated and also refined to obtain feedback from them, before we bring it again to the Cabinet Meeting for the purpose of obtaining approval to be tabled in Parliament," he said. He said this to reporters after the Haul Asmaulhusna 2026 Commemorative Dhikr Ceremony at the Sultan Iskandar Mosque, Bandar Dato Onn, here today. Also present were Ahmad Zahid and Johor BN Chairman Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi. He said this when asked about the latest developments regarding the amendment to the MARA Act 1966. So far, the approval given by the Cabinet is at the policy level, while the draft amendments will be distributed to ministries and stakeholders to be refined and receive feedback before being brought back to the Cabinet meeting for final approval. This step is important to ensure that the new MARA Act is more relevant and able to strengthen the role of the agency in the Bumiputera development agenda. Previously, Asyraf Wajdi was reported to have said that the Policy Paper for the formulation of the new Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) Act 2026 had been approved by the Cabinet. The new act will replace the MARA Act 1966, with approximately 80 percent of the changes in the draft proposal focused on aspects of governance and compliance based on international standards and good corporate governance practices. -- BERNAMA

New MARA Act to be tabled in Parliament this year – Asyraf Wajdi

JOHOR BAHRU: The new amendment to the MARA Act 1966 will be tabled in Parliament this year after the Cabinet approved the policy paper relating to the amendment. MARA chairman .... read more

KOTA BHARU, June 14 -- Driven by the allure of an ‘overseas holiday,’ thousands of Malaysians have been ignoring safety warnings and queuing for hours to enter southern Thailand, especially during festive seasons and school holidays. Revealing this concerning trend, Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat said that daily observations at the state’s three official entry points (ICQS Complexes) - Rantau Panjang in Pasir Mas, Pengkalan Kubor in Tumpat, and Bukit Bunga in Tanah Merah - have recorded extremely high cross-border traffic. He said that on normal days, an estimated 3,000 people cross the border, while the figure rises to more than 4,000 during weekends. According to him, when school holidays arrive, the number increases significantly, reaching between 6,000 and 7,000 people per day. “Overall, the total number of entries and exits involving border passes or passports can reach as high as 10,000 people in a single day. We continuously advise the public that the situation there (in southern Thailand) is difficult to predict. “No one knows when or where a bombing or shooting incident might occur. The travel advisory issued by the Foreign Ministry (Wisma Putra) last year remains in effect, yet many people appear unconcerned and are still willing to queue for hours,” he told Bernama recently. Commenting on the factors drawing visitors to the troubled region, he said that, in his personal view, Kelantan still lacks sufficiently attractive tourist destinations or family recreation spots to encourage locals to spend their holidays within the state. He added that the public’s fascination with the notion of an overseas holiday also plays a significant role. “Many people seem to regard any trip that earns them a passport stamp as an overseas holiday, even though the destination is just across the border and separated only by a river. “Financial considerations are another factor behind the growing trend. The favourable exchange rate of the neighbouring country's currency makes people feel they can spend more freely there,” he said. He added that many locals are willing to cross the border for relatively simple reasons, such as seeking out authentic Thai cuisine, strolling through night markets, or even buying viral snacks from Thailand's 7-Eleven stores before returning home the same day. Meanwhile, Mohd Yusoff suggested that the state government and relevant stakeholders consider transforming border towns such as Rantau Panjang by adopting the development model used in Padang Besar, Perlis, as part of a two-pronged strategy to reduce the outflow of Malaysian currency. He said developing a well-organised commercial complex incorporating a rest and service (R&R) concept could attract domestic tourists without requiring them to cross the border. Citing Perlis as an example, Mohd Yusoff said the R&R shopping complex there, with its attractive retail outlets, has successfully drawn Thai traders to market utility goods, clothing and authentic food products legally on the Malaysian side of the border. “If Kelantan can replicate this model, we can not only attract foreign tourists to visit the state, but also discourage our people from crossing the border simply to visit night markets or go shopping. After all, our culinary culture is not that different from theirs,” he said. Mohd Yusoff also dismissed claims by certain parties that the police’s stricter border controls were to blame for the decline in business activity at the Rantau Panjang and Pengkalan Kubor Duty-Free Zones. He stressed that the economic downturn in both border towns had begun well before the COVID-19 pandemic. “The post-pandemic period has seen a drastic shift in consumer behaviour, with many people now preferring to purchase Thai products online,” he said. Given that the rise of e-commerce has undermined traditional brick-and-mortar businesses, he said border towns could no longer rely on conventional retail models and instead needed to reinvent themselves. This could include developing hubs for viral products, food and popular snacks, including those commonly associated with Thailand's 7-Eleven stores. “Rantau Panjang should be viewed as a destination in its own right and given a new lease of life. Establish attractive retail outlets and bring in the products that people seek from Thailand. That is the best solution for revitalising the local economy,” he said. -- BERNAMA

Thousands Of Malaysians Continue To Visit Southern Thailand Despite Safety Warnings

KOTA BHARU, June 14 — Driven by the allure of an ‘overseas holiday,’ thousands of Malaysians have been ignoring safety warnings and queuing for hours to enter southern Thailand, especially .... read more

KUANTAN, June 14 -- The Department of Environment (DOE) has conducted water quality tests at locations near the site of a hydrochloric acid spill following an accident involving a tanker lorry near Cherating bridge yesterday. The department said water samples were tested at three locations within the mangrove area before the water flows into Sungai Cherating, located about 100 metres from the accident site, and found that the pH reading was within the normal range at pH 6. “Monitoring conducted using YSI equipment in Sungai Cherating recorded a river water pH reading of 9.4, indicating that there was no acid contamination,” it said. The DOE said the Pahang Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) had also successfully sealed the venting line at the rear section of the tank, preventing a larger spill. “The spill is estimated at approximately 1,000 litres and has been neutralised using soda ash. No further leakage or spillage was detected,” the DOE said in a statement. The department stressed that any discharge of pollutants resulting in environmental contamination and found to be in violation of the provisions of the Environmental Quality Act 1974 (Act 127) will be thoroughly investigated. Should any non-compliance with the Act be identified, strict enforcement action will be taken against those responsible. It also said that it will continue to conduct regular monitoring at the accident site and surrounding areas to ensure that no pollution occurs and that all containment and clean-up measures are fully implemented in accordance with the prescribed requirements. Yesterday, a man was reported injured after the tanker lorry carrying hydrochloric acid that he was driving overturned in Cherating, causing the chemical to spill and flow into a nearby mangrove area. -- BERNAMA

Hydrochloric Acid Spill: DOE Tests Water Quality Near Accident Site

KUANTAN, June 14 — The Department of Environment (DOE) has conducted water quality tests at locations near the site of a hydrochloric acid spill following an accident involving a tanker .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR: The Safe Community Alliance has expressed concern over the increasing use of electronic cigarettes or vaping among school students and teenagers, which is now a public health threat and requires immediate and concerted action. Its chairman, Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, said that a tool that was originally intended to help adults quit smoking has now turned into a dangerous trend among young people, exposing them to nicotine addiction at a very young age and serious health risks. He said attractive packaging, a variety of popular flavours, aggressive online marketing and easy access have contributed significantly to the increase in the popularity of the cigarette among students. "What is more worrying is the emergence of illegal vape products that contain harmful substances, which can have serious effects on physical and mental health," he said in a statement today. Lee said the issue should not be considered solely as a disciplinary problem, but rather as a broader public health issue that requires an approach involving all levels of society, including parents, schools, health authorities, enforcement agencies, community leaders and the media to address the problem more effectively. To address the increasingly worrying threat, Lee suggested several key interventions including strengthening enforcement against the sale of the product to minors, as well as conducting regular inspections in areas around schools and educational institutions. He also urged authorities to tighten controls on online sales and advertisements targeting young people, as well as intensify education and awareness programs on the dangers of electronic cigarettes. In addition, parents need to be more sensitive to the activities and influence of their children's peers, as well as providing counselling and support services to students who have experienced nicotine addiction. He said that educational institutions and school environments must be free of the product in question and those found smoking it must be given guidance through counselling and rehabilitation programmes, not just punished. "The future of the country depends on the health and well-being of the younger generation. We need to act decisively to prevent the vaping problem from developing into a more serious public health crisis among Malaysian youth," said Lee. -- BERNAMA

Use of electronic cigarettes among students is increasingly worrying, urgent action needed – Lee

KUALA LUMPUR: The Safe Community Alliance has expressed concern over the increasing use of electronic cigarettes or vaping among school students and teenagers, which is now a public health threat .... read more

KUANTAN: A man was injured after the lorry he was driving loaded with hydrochloric acid overturned in Cherating, here this morning. Pahang Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Operations and Rescue Division Assistant Director Mohd Salahuddin Isa said his department received an emergency call regarding the incident at 7.32 am this morning. "The accident caused the lorry to leak in the tank and the acid liquid flowed into the mangrove swamp." "The fire department has taken action to create a water curtain to prevent the spread of acid vapors to the main road, with the amount of hydrochloric acid spilled estimated to be less than 1,000 litres," he said in a statement today. He said the Department of Environment (DOE) and related companies had been contacted to coordinate further actions, including the process of transferring chemicals to replacement lorries. "The operation was still ongoing as of 1.40pm today with close monitoring by the Hazardous Chemicals Special Team (HAZMAT) to ensure that the situation remains safe throughout the load transfer process," he said. Mohd Salahuddin said the lorry driver, in his 30s, was sent to Kemaman Hospital before the fire brigade arrived. -- BERNAMA

Lorry carrying hydrochloric acid overturns in Cherating

KUANTAN: A man was injured after the lorry he was driving loaded with hydrochloric acid overturned in Cherating, here this morning. Pahang Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Operations and Rescue .... read more

JOHOR BAHRU: The rate of resettlement to third countries by the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) is too low for refugees, including the Rohingya, which is one of the reasons why the group remains in the midst of local communities for a long time. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said that although the UNHCR has two essential tasks, namely registering refugees and finding third countries for resettlement, statistics show that the number of refugee cards issued by the body is far greater than the number of individuals successfully deported. He said that as a result of this imbalance, Malaysia is now forced to face these issues, including the Rohingya ethnic group who are forced to live with the local community while awaiting their uncertain turn for resettlement. "The UNHCR's main task is to register, then find a third country. However, the success rate of placement in a third country is much smaller compared to the issuance of UNHCR cards by the agency itself. As a result, while waiting to be placed, these refugees are in the middle of society," he said. He said this to comment on the issue of the "Catch Rohingya Campaign" on social media, after attending the Drug-Free Aspiration Tour programme organised by the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) here. Touching on the increasing temperature of the campaign and the insistence of netizens on social media who want strict action to be taken against the group, he said the community has the right to speak out because this issue directly affects the country's economic, security and social aspects. However, he said refugees have a different status from illegal immigrants (PATI) who can be directly taken action under the Immigration Act, given that the presence of these refugees is driven by conflict-pushing factors in their countries of origin. Saifuddin Nasution said that to address the security implications of the situation, the government is now implementing its own data collection process and is no longer completely dependent on UNHCR data. "When we have our own data, we can take enforcement action if there is any violation of national laws by this group. They are still subject to domestic laws and strict action will be taken if they violate national rules," he said. He said this issue was a legacy issue that had been going on for a long time and rejected the narrative of certain parties who were trying to place the blame for the refugee dumping entirely on the current government. Saifuddin Nasution said the government was ready to manage this issue based on security considerations and humanitarian principles, while welcoming reasonable and constructive suggestions from academics and social activists to help resolve the crisis. -- BERNAMA

Rohingya issue: UNHCR’s third country resettlement rate is too low – Saifuddin Nasution

JOHOR BAHRU: The rate of resettlement to third countries by the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) is too low for refugees, including the Rohingya, which is one of .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 13 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has underscored the critical role of Islamic scholars in guiding society through the challenges of rapid technological advancement, particularly in the era of artificial intelligence (AI). Speaking at the opening of the 4th Southeast Asia Scholars Conference 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, Zahid said technological progress must be anchored in strong ethical and moral values to ensure it benefits humanity and contributes positively to societal development. The conference gathered approximately 600 Islamic scholars, muftis, academics, researchers and intellectuals from across the ASEAN region to discuss contemporary issues affecting the Muslim community. Zahid noted that while economic and geopolitical challenges continue to dominate global discourse, a growing crisis of values, manners and wisdom within society poses an equally significant concern. "Technological advancements, including AI, data analytics and innovation, must be utilised responsibly and guided by ethical principles. The framework of Maqasid Syariah should continue to serve as a compass in shaping policies and development that prioritise human welfare and societal well-being," he said. The Deputy Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of intellectual diplomacy among Islamic scholars in Southeast Asia, stressing that stronger regional cooperation can help build consensus on key issues facing the ummah and generate practical solutions to emerging challenges. He called on scholars and religious institutions to continue fostering dialogue, research and collaboration to ensure that technological progress remains aligned with the values of justice, compassion and social responsibility. Zahid also commended the Muslim World League (MWL) and the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) for their continued efforts in organising the conference and promoting scholarly engagement across the region. He expressed hope that the discussions and deliberations held during the conference would strengthen the unity of the Muslim community, elevate the role of knowledge in nation-building and deliver lasting benefits to Southeast Asia and beyond. The three-day conference serves as a platform for regional scholars to exchange ideas and address contemporary challenges affecting Muslim societies in an increasingly digital and interconnected world. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ZAHID HAMIDI

Datuk Seri Dr. Zahid Hamidi Calls for Ethical AI Development Guided by Islamic Values at Southeast Asia Scholars Conference

KUALA LUMPUR, June 13 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has underscored the critical role of Islamic scholars in guiding society through the challenges of rapid .... read more

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KOTA KINABALU, June 13 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today paid tribute to the crucial role of women in nation-building, describing them as the backbone of families, communities and the country's future during the "Melangkah Bersama MADANI: Women Believing, Women Survive" programme in Kota Kinabalu. Addressing participants from across Sabah, Anwar expressed appreciation for the immense contributions made by women in strengthening society and nurturing future generations. He stressed that women must never be sidelined in the national development agenda, noting that they are among the key pillars in producing knowledgeable, resilient and morally upright generations capable of advancing the aspirations of Malaysia MADANI. "Women are the foundation of strong families and communities. Their role is indispensable in shaping a generation that is educated, well-mannered and guided by noble values," he said. The Prime Minister also reflected on the challenges and trials faced by individuals throughout life, reminding participants that adversity is a universal experience. Drawing lessons from the lives of the prophets and righteous individuals, Anwar said every challenge should be faced with wisdom, patience and steadfastness, while maintaining faith and moral integrity. He emphasised that strong faith, continuous pursuit of knowledge and unwavering ethical values remain essential in building prosperous families, resilient communities and a progressive nation. Anwar added that the MADANI Government remains committed to empowering women and ensuring they continue to play a central role in Malaysia's social, economic and national development. The programme brought together women from various backgrounds across Sabah, providing a platform to strengthen resilience, empowerment and community engagement in line with the Malaysia MADANI vision. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

Anwar Ibrahim Hails Women’s Vital Role in Building a Resilient Malaysia MADANI

KOTA KINABALU, June 13 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today paid tribute to the crucial role of women in nation-building, describing them as the backbone of families, communities .... read more

KOTA KINABALU: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to make a one-day visit to Sabah today to attend several programmes, including opening ceremonies and community programmes. The Prime Minister began the visit by attending the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the Sabah Southern MADANI Link at the Lundayeh Hall, Sipitang at 11 am. The project involves a 275 kilovolt (kV) electricity transmission line spanning 330 kilometres (km) from Sipitang to Tawau, which plays an important role in strengthening the electricity supply grid in the state by balancing energy distribution on the West and East Coasts of Sabah. After completing the program in Sipitang, he is scheduled to return to the state capital to attend the Sabah State Level Melangkah Bersama MADANI: Wanita Beriman, Wanita Bertahan which will be held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here at 2.30 pm. Anwar is next scheduled to officiate the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 National Unity Week Celebration at 4 pm. The opening ceremony for the national-level celebration will be held at the Likas Sports Complex grounds here, before he concludes his visit. The 2026 National Unity Week celebration will last for four days, ending tomorrow. -- BERNAMA

PM Anwar to pay one-day visit to Sabah today

KOTA KINABALU: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to make a one-day visit to Sabah today to attend several programmes, including opening ceremonies and community programmes. The Prime .... read more

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SEPANG: The operation of Light Rail Transit 3 (LRT3) which connects Shah Alam, Selangor with surrounding areas is expected to begin at the end of this month, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook. He said the start date of operations would be announced in two weeks and the project was currently in the final phase of trial operations. "After various tests have been carried out and trial operations have been finalised, we are confident that operations (LRT3) can commence," he told reporters after chairing the 62nd Annual General Meeting of the Road Safety Council here today. Meanwhile, Loke said the Bill (RUU) establishing the Malaysian Transport Safety Board (MTSB) will not be tabled in the Parliament session which begins next week. "MTSB has received Cabinet approval, but we are now discussing with the Public Service Department to look at staffing and so on." "This bill will be brought to the next sitting because at this sitting, there is one bill, namely the amendment to the Road Transport Act, which we are giving priority," he said. Loke said the Ministry of Transport (MOT) has also identified individuals to be appointed to the MTSB, which will be finalized in the near future. In another development, Loke said the MOT would hold discussions with e-hailing operators on the possibility of implementing additional safety measures to protect the safety of their drivers. Among the suggestions raised is the installation of dashboard cameras ( dashcams ) in e-hailing vehicles, but this needs to take into account passenger privacy concerns. "In terms of safety measures, we will discuss further with the operator to see what other actions they can take to protect drivers." "In terms of safety, drivers and passengers are equally important. So we have to ensure a balance between the two," he said. -- BERNAMA

LRT3 expected to start operating by the end of June – Loke

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 15 -- About 7,000 to 8,000 Rohingya were sent to third countries each year through intergovernmental cooperation, said Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail. However, he said the process has now stalled due to various constraints faced by the countries involved. He said the Rohingya ethnic issue was an international issue stemming from the political and security situation in Myanmar, causing Malaysia to accept their presence on humanitarian grounds. "Malaysia has government-to-government (G2G) cooperation with several countries that allows Rohingya refugees to be temporarily housed before being sent to third countries that need their labor or professional services. "Recently, the process of resettling Rohingyas to third countries has faced several constraints, causing their movement to the country to be halted, thus raising various issues that require the attention of all parties," he told reporters after the launch of the Fight Against Scam: Two Teams, One Goal, here, today. Mohd Khalid said that apart from that, Malaysia also took into account the humanitarian aspect in dealing with the issue, in addition to ensuring that national security continues to be maintained. "Everyone who comes to this country must follow the laws and regulations that have been set. These people are subject to our laws. If they commit an offence, we will take action just like we do against anyone else who comes to our country," he said. He said about 215,000 Rohingya are registered with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) while local authorities also have their records in collaboration with the Immigration Department to facilitate monitoring. "We know where they are and what their jobs are. So if any crime occurs involving them, it will be easy for us to take action when we know their location and so on," he said. Commenting on crime trends involving the community, Mohd Khalid said the involvement of the Rohingya ethnic group in crime was low, with 89 individuals recorded as being involved in criminal cases for the period 2024 to this year, which is 0.02 percent of the overall crime statistics in the country. In this regard, he reminded the public not to make statements that could affect public safety and order, while stressing that enforcement action would be taken against any individual who violates the law regardless of nationality. The media last Saturday reported that Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said that the rate of resettlement to third countries by the UNHCR was too low for refugees, including the Rohingya, which was one of the reasons why the group remained in the midst of local communities for a long time. Meanwhile, Selangor Police Chief Datuk Shazeli Kahar said the state recorded 192 cases involving 300 arrests of Rohingya between 2025 and May 2026 involving violent and property crimes. He said the police always take consistent and continuous enforcement action and are not based on current sentiment. "The police always work closely with strategic agency partners, for example the Immigration Department and Local Authorities (PBT), we work together to exchange information and carry out integrated operations," he said at a press conference by the Selangor Commercial Crime Investigation Department, here, today. Shazeli said last year six integrated operations were carried out throughout the state of Selangor to address the issue. Commenting on the issue of demolition of illegal settlements, he said discussions on the matter were being held with the local authorities involved so that further, more constructive action could be taken in line with legal provisions. – BERNAMA

Deportation of thousands of Rohingya to third countries every year has stopped – IGP

KUALA LUMPUR, June 15 — Communications Minister and Lembah Pantai Member of Parliament Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has welcomed the successful launch of the Dengue-Free Community (KomBeD) Programme and Mega Anti-Aedes Gotong-Royong initiative, describing it as an important step towards strengthening community involvement in dengue prevention and control efforts. The programme, organised by the Lembah Pantai Health Office in collaboration with the Lembah Pantai parliamentary constituency, was held on Sunday (June 14) and brought together government agencies, strategic partners and local residents in a united effort to combat the spread of dengue fever. The event also featured the National Healthy Malaysia Agenda (ANMS) Roadshow for Lembah Pantai, aimed at promoting healthy lifestyle practices and enhancing public awareness of health-related issues within the community. Fahmi said the initiative reflects the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining a clean, safe and healthy environment, while encouraging greater public participation in efforts to eliminate Aedes mosquito breeding grounds. "Community engagement remains a key component in the fight against dengue. Through programmes such as KomBeD and the Mega Anti-Aedes Gotong-Royong, residents are empowered to take proactive measures in protecting their neighbourhoods and families from dengue outbreaks," he said. He expressed hope that the programme would serve as a catalyst for building a more aware, proactive and committed community capable of sustaining a cleaner, healthier and dengue-free environment. Fahmi also extended his appreciation to all participating agencies, strategic partners and members of the local community for their cooperation and dedication in ensuring the success of the programme. "The commitment shown by all stakeholders demonstrates that effective public health initiatives require strong collaboration between the government, community leaders and residents. Together, we can create healthier communities and reduce the threat posed by dengue," he added. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB FAHMI FADZIL

Datuk Fahmi Commends Community Participation in Dengue-Free Community Launch and Mega Anti-Aedes Campaign

KUALA LUMPUR, June 15 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today described the groundbreaking ceremony for the Bukit Kiara Permanent Housing Project as a historic milestone that reflects the MADANI Government's commitment to justice, dignity and the welfare of the people. Speaking at the ceremony, Anwar said the project marks the end of a 44-year struggle for residents of Rumah Panjang Bukit Kiara, who have lived in temporary settlements under challenging conditions while awaiting a permanent housing solution. "This is a meaningful and joyous moment, not only for the residents of Rumah Panjang Bukit Kiara, but also proof that an administration guided by MADANI values will always place justice, courtesy and the dignity of the people at the forefront," he said. The Prime Minister noted that the project represents a concrete step towards resolving a long-standing issue that has affected generations of residents and demonstrates the government's determination to ensure citizens receive their rightful access to proper housing. He said the process of addressing the matter required careful consideration and collaboration among various stakeholders to identify the best possible solution while safeguarding the interests of the affected community. Anwar also expressed appreciation to all parties involved in making the project a reality, stressing that the experience underscored the importance of respecting legislative processes and upholding the role of national institutions. "The rights and welfare of those in need must continue to be protected, with justice enjoyed by all citizens regardless of race, religion or background," he said. He added that the government's efforts to uplift the urban poor would remain a priority, in line with its commitment to ensuring that no segment of society is left behind in the nation's development agenda. According to Anwar, development must be inclusive and benefit all levels of society, as true national progress can only be achieved when every citizen is able to participate in and benefit from economic and social advancement. During the ceremony, the Prime Minister also announced a RM1 million grant to assist longhouse residents transitioning into their new homes. The allocation will be used to provide residential maintenance subsidies for a period of three years and will be managed by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL). He said the initiative forms part of the MADANI Government's ongoing commitment to preserving the welfare and quality of life of residents after they relocate to their new permanent housing units. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

Bukit Kiara Permanent Housing Project Ends 44-Year Wait for Longhouse Residents – PM Anwar

LONDON, 15 June  -- AI is rapidly reshaping the skills employers want most from workers – increasing the emphasis on human skills such as judgement, creativity and leadership – as companies most able to use AI continue to expand hiring faster than their peers, according to PwC's 2026 Global AI Jobs Barometer, released today.  The Barometer, which analysed more than one billion job ads across six continents, also finds that AI is driving a 'two-track' global labour market in which 'professionalised' roles – in which AI automates routine tasks so human judgement and expertise are emphasized – are growing faster than roles 'democratised' by AI – in which AI makes the role itself easier for non-experts to perform. 'Professionalised' roles (such as radiologists or recruiters) are seeing twice the growth in available jobs and 42% faster salary growth than those categorised as 'democratised' (such as IT service managers or medical secretaries). At the entry level, AI appears to be increasing demand for more 'senior' skills from junior workers. Based on 2.4 million entry-level jobs analysed in the US, entry-level roles most exposed to AI are now seven times more likely to require traditionally senior-level 'human-intensive' skills like leadership, creativity or face-to-face interactions. Job openings for these 'seniorised' entry-level roles have grown 35% since 2019, while other entry-level roles shrank 10%. Joe Atkinson, Global Chief AI Officer, PwC, said: "Across the global economy, we're beginning to see a new divide emerge between different models for talent and value creation. The companies seeing the greatest returns on AI are using it to amplify human expertise, accelerate innovation and create entirely new sources of value. As a result, they are pulling further ahead on productivity and growth than companies that focus primarily on automation." AI is driving a productivity boom – and "super-star" companies most able to use AI are pulling ahead significantly The report finds widening divergence between companies most and least exposed to AI. Companies operating in the most AI-exposed sectors recorded 34% productivity growth in 2025 relative to 2018, compared to 24% for the companies least able to use AI. Within this group, a pronounced "super-star" effect is emerging. The top 20% of the most AI-exposed companies achieved average labour productivity growth of 163% relative to 2018 – nearly five times higher than the most AI-exposed companies overall. Perhaps most surprisingly, headcount growth at the most AI-exposed companies is outpacing growth at the least AI-exposed companies – 52% relative to 36% in 2025, based on 2018 baseline levels. Average wage premium for AI skills hits 62% as AI job postings eclipse broader labour market growth As companies continue to boost productivity with AI, the average wage premium for workers with AI skills continued to surge higher – hitting 62%, up from 57% last year. The wage premium varies by industry: as high as 118% in some sectors, such as consumer markets, and 16% in government and public sector work. Jobs requiring specific AI skills – such as prompt engineering or machine learning – have also soared, growing roughly eight times (69%) as fast as the overall jobs market, at 9%. The number of AI jobs is almost twice as high as 2024, with growth in AI jobs outpacing all jobs since 2015.  Sectors including technology, media and telecommunications (11%) and professional services (6%) sectors saw the highest share in AI job growth – with health at the lowest end (less than 1%) Pete Brown, Global Workforce Leader, PwC, said: "The traditional relationship between experience and expertise is changing. AI is removing some of the routine work that once acted as an apprenticeship, while increasing demand for judgement, leadership and adaptability much earlier in careers. Organisations need to rethink how they develop talent if they want people to thrive in this new environment." Notes to Editors About PwC 2026 Global AI Jobs Barometer  PwC's 2026 AI Jobs Barometer analysed more than one billion jobs advertisements in 27 countries and territories. The Barometer combines large-scale labour market, company financial and occupational task data to understand how AI is reshaping jobs, skills, wages and productivity across the global economy. Additionally, this year's Barometer includes targeted analysis of entry-level roles, including how the skill requirements of early-career jobs are changing in highly AI-exposed occupations. You can read the full report and learn more about the methodology and key takeaways at www.pwc.com. About PwC  At PwC, we help clients build trust and reinvent so they can turn complexity into competitive advantage. We're a tech-forward, people-empowered network with more than 364,000 people in 136 countries and 137 territories. Across audit and assurance, tax and legal, deals and consulting, we help clients build, accelerate, and sustain momentum. Find out more at www.pwc.com. --  PRNewswire -- Source: PwC

AI reshapes global labour market into two distinct paths, rewarding human skills: PwC 2026 Global AI Jobs Barometer