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Malaysia News

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today called on Malaysia’s youth to become the driving force behind the nation’s future by embracing knowledge, technology, integrity and critical thinking in facing an increasingly complex global landscape. Speaking in conjunction with the National Youth Day Celebration, Anwar described the country’s youth as a symbol of spirit, idealism and strength in shaping a progressive and competitive Malaysia. He said young people must be equipped with knowledge, skills, values and confidence to navigate rapid changes in society, technology and the economy. “I believe today’s young generation have the courage to think critically, voice out opinions maturely and bring about reforms for the betterment of the country,” he said. The Prime Minister stressed that mastery of technology and innovation alone is insufficient without strong moral principles, integrity and social awareness to build a dignified and respected nation. Anwar also reaffirmed the MADANI Government’s commitment towards empowering youth through expanded opportunities in education, skills training, employment and entrepreneurship development. He said the government would continue strengthening support systems for gig workers and young entrepreneurs to ensure that the younger generation remains competitive in the evolving economic environment. “As a commitment to the youth empowerment agenda, I am announcing an additional allocation of RM5 million to Majlis Belia Malaysia (MBM) to empower the movement and development of young people across the country,” he announced. The additional allocation is expected to strengthen youth-focused programmes and initiatives aimed at leadership development, innovation, volunteerism and community engagement nationwide. Anwar expressed confidence that the spirit, determination and ideas of Malaysian youth would become a key force in elevating the country to greater heights. “I am sure the spirit, thought and determination of the younger generation will be an important force in lifting Malaysia to a more advanced, fair and respected level,” he added. The National Youth Day Celebration serves as an annual platform to recognise the role of youth in national development while encouraging greater participation in shaping Malaysia’s future direction. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

Youth Must Lead Malaysia’s Future with Knowledge, Integrity and Courage – PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today called on Malaysia’s youth to become the driving force behind the nation’s future by embracing knowledge, technology, integrity and critical .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, May 15 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) will continue strengthening its strategic cooperation with the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC), particularly in handling high-profile, large-scale and public interest cases. Newly-appointed MACC chief commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman said such cases would continue to be referred to the AGC as the authority responsible for determining legal action on investigations conducted by the anti-graft agency. “I will do my best to lead, reform and strengthen the MACC,” he said in a statement today following a courtesy visit to Attorney-General Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar yesterday. The visit marked Abd Halim’s first official engagement since assuming office on May 13. Meanwhile, Mohd Dusuki expressed appreciation for Abd Halim’s decision to make the AGC his first courtesy visit as the new MACC chief commissioner. “The AGC and the MACC are inseparable. The cooperation between us will continue,” he said. Also present were the head of the AGC’s Trial and Appeals Division, Datuk Seri Saiful Edris Zainuddin, and the head of the AGC’s Prosecution Division, Datuk Masri Mohd Daud. -- BERNAMA

MACC To Strengthen Strategic Cooperation With AGC – Abd Halim

PUTRAJAYA, May 15 (Bernama) — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) will continue strengthening its strategic cooperation with the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC), particularly in handling high-profile, large-scale and public interest .... read more

MELAKA, May 15 -- Allocation for the Work-Based Learning (WBL) programme for the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) has been increased from RM3 million to RM9.9 million this year, expanding opportunities for 1,520 personnel to obtain academic recognition based on their experience and skills gained throughout their service. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the strategic initiative is aimed at improving the employability of MAF personnel after service, while helping them secure more stable jobs and income. “So far, a total of 461 MAF personnel have benefited from the WBL programme, with 231 enrolled at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) and 230 at Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM), and all are expected to graduate in November and December this year. “For this year, the programme has been expanded to 12 higher education institutions, with nearly 50 study programmes offered across various fields, including business administration, culinary arts, defence technology and logistics management,” he said. He spoke to reporters after officiating the launch of the Defence Ministry’s WBL Programme at Terendak Camp here today. Also present were Royal Malaysian Navy Chief Admiral Tan Sri Dr Zulhelmy Ithnain and Armed Forces Headquarters Chief of Staff Lieutenant-General Datuk Seri Muhammad Huzaimi Sabri. Earlier, Mohamed Khaled witnessed the exchange of Memoranda of Agreement between MAF, UPNM, UiTM and City University Malaysia, symbolising stronger strategic cooperation in implementing the WBL initiative. He also presented certificates of completion to 36 participants of Cohort 1/2025 who began their studies in June 2025, as well as offer letters to 24 new intakes for Cohort 2/2026 who will begin their studies next month. He said the programme is important as most military personnel join the service with only the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) qualification, adding that without intervention, they would retire with the same qualification in an increasingly competitive job market. “Most military personnel enter the service with only SPM qualifications, while over their roughly 20 years of service they accumulate experience, skills and competencies, but these are often not recognised by industry without formal certification,” he said. He said that through collaboration with higher education institutions, personnel’s experience and skills will be assessed and recognised, allowing them to obtain diplomas or formal academic qualifications through a work-based learning approach. “With better academic qualifications, it will help MAF personnel, who on average retire at around 41 and still have growing families to support, to secure jobs and reduce the risk of financial hardship if they rely only on pensions and welfare assistance. “At the same time, this work-based learning approach does not interfere with or affect their core duties in service, an advantage that personnel should make full use of,” he added. -- BERNAMA

Work-based Learning Funding Raised To RM9.9 Mln, Recognising MAF Personnel Experience

MELAKA, May 15 — Allocation for the Work-Based Learning (WBL) programme for the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) has been increased from RM3 million to RM9.9 million this year, expanding opportunities .... read more

GEORGE TOWN, May 15 -- Three vehicles caught fire following a five-vehicle crash at the Udini Underpass on Jalan Masjid Negeri here today, causing severe traffic congestion. The incident involved a trailer lorry believed to be carrying concrete poles, a passenger van and a Proton S70 car, all of which caught fire, and two other vehicles — a Perodua Alza and a Chery Tiggo. Penang Fire and Rescue Department assistant director of operations John Sagun Francis said there were no reports of casualties. He said the department received an emergency call at 7.04 am and dispatched a team from the Jalan Perak Fire and Rescue Station to the scene. “Upon arrival, we found that the accident involved five vehicles, three of which were on fire. Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control at 7.33 am, and no casualties were reported as all those involved managed to escape in time,” he said in a statement. Meanwhile, the Penang Island City Council said in a traffic update posted on Facebook that traffic wardens had been deployed to the scene to manage and ease traffic flow in the area. “The public is advised to use alternative routes and avoid the area until the situation is safe and under control,” it said. The incident caused severe congestion in several areas, including Green Lane, Jalan Masjid Negeri and Jalan Batu Lanchang, as the roads are major routes and the accident occurred during peak hours when people were commuting to work. -- BERNAMA

Three Vehicles Catch Fire After Crash At Udini Underpass

GEORGE TOWN, May 15 — Three vehicles caught fire following a five-vehicle crash at the Udini Underpass on Jalan Masjid Negeri here today, causing severe traffic congestion. The incident involved .... read more

SEREMBAN, May 15 -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged entrepreneur development agencies to intensify efforts to go to the ground to identify the needs of the people and small traders, particularly youths, instead of merely waiting in offices. He said the ground approach was crucial to ensure that all government assistance, financing and programmes genuinely reached the target groups and were able to address problems faced by the people at the grassroots level. “My message is clear to all government agencies and financial institutions — find ways to reach out to the people. Do not wait for them to come to offices to seek assistance,” he said when speaking at the 2026 National Youth Day (HBN) celebration here today. Also present were Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun and Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari. The Prime Minister said the relevant ministries and agencies needed to be more proactive in engaging small entrepreneurs and young traders on the ground. “If there are small stalls in Kuala Lumpur, Seremban or anywhere else, go and meet them, ask about their problems, whether they have capital, whether facilities are sufficient or not. The government must be present to help the people,” he said. -- BERNAMA

PM Anwar Urges Entrepreneur Agencies To Reach Out To People

SEREMBAN, May 15 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged entrepreneur development agencies to intensify efforts to go to the ground to identify the needs of the people .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 — Deputy Minister of Human Resources, Ramanan Ramakrishnan today received a courtesy visit from a delegation of the Majlis Belia Malaysia (MBM) led by its president, Mohd Izzat Afifi Abdul Hamid. As the main coordinating body for youth and student organisations in Malaysia, MBM plays a vital role in nurturing young leadership, strengthening youth voices, and bridging the aspirations of young people with the nation’s development agenda. During the meeting, discussions focused on strategic collaboration between the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) and the youth community, particularly in expanding access to decent employment opportunities, talent development, and enhancing the global competitiveness of Malaysian youth. Ramanan emphasised that young people are not merely the future heirs of the nation, but are also the driving force behind Malaysia’s economic strength and social development. He said the aspirations, voices, and future of the youth have always remained close to his heart, adding that empowering young Malaysians through skills development and employment opportunities is crucial to ensuring sustainable national progress. He also expressed confidence that the close relationship between KESUMA and MBM will continue to be strengthened in efforts to produce a more skilled, resilient, and globally competitive young workforce. “The future of the nation cannot be built without the strength of its youth. When young people are given opportunities, the country will move further forward,” he said. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB RAMANAN RAMAKRISHNAN

Datuk Seri Ramanan Strengthens Collaboration with Malaysian Youth Council to Empower Future Workforce

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 — Deputy Minister of Human Resources, Ramanan Ramakrishnan today received a courtesy visit from a delegation of the Majlis Belia Malaysia (MBM) led by its president, .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, 15 May -- High blood pressure is no longer a condition associated mainly with older adults, with medical experts warning that more young Malaysians are now developing hypertension and early signs of heart damage due to unhealthy lifestyle habits. In Malaysia, nearly one in three adults has hypertension, with many remaining unaware of their condition that often begins with vague symptoms, resulting in hidden damage building up over time. According to Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC) consultant cardiologist and electrophysiologist Dr Gary Lee Chin Keong when blood pressure remains high over an extended time, the heart is forced to work harder to circulate blood through the body. He explains that the heart will adapt by becoming thicker and stronger, however, it is not beneficial in the long run as the constant strain causes the heart muscle to stiffen, reducing its ability to fill and pump efficiently. “One of the earliest signs of damage is left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), a condition involving the thickening of the heart’s main pumping chamber, which can reduce the heart’s ability to fill and pump blood efficiently. "Unlike skeletal muscle, this thickening is not beneficial in the long run. The constant strain causes the heart muscle to stiffen,” he said in a statement. Dr Gary said LVH can develop silently for years and is often only detected through tests such as echocardiograms, which allow doctors to identify structural changes in the heart. He said symptoms including chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, dizziness and fainting are frequently dismissed as stress, fatigue or indigestion, causing many patients to seek treatment only after complications become more serious. According to him, uncontrolled hypertension significantly increases the risk of heart failure, stroke, heart attack, kidney disease and abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation. Dr Gary also highlighted a growing trend of younger Malaysians being diagnosed with hypertension and heart disease, driven largely by modern lifestyles. “About 20 years ago, hypertension was mostly thought to be a problem for older people. Today, I have patients who are only in their 20s or 30s. "This trend is caused by long working hours, chronic stress, inadequate sleep, lack of exercise, smoking, excessive salt intake and high consumption of processed foods. Obesity and diabetes further increase the risk, creating a 'dangerous cluster' of cardiovascular risk factors,” he said. Dr Gary encourages Malaysians to begin monitoring their health indicators, including blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and body weight, from as early as their 20s. He also said early detection and treatment can help slow or partially reverse damage to the heart through medication, healthier diets, exercise, weight control, smoking cessation and regular medical follow-ups. “Don’t wait for symptoms to tell you something is wrong. The earlier you detect high blood pressure, the better your chances of protecting your heart,” he added. -- BERNAMA

Hypertension Quietly Damaging Hearts Of Young Adults

KUALA LUMPUR, 15 May — High blood pressure is no longer a condition associated mainly with older adults, with medical experts warning that more young Malaysians are now developing hypertension .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 -- An incident involving the accidental swapping of babies at a ward in Tunku Azizah Hospital (HTA) has been resolved, with the babies safely returned to their respective mothers. HTA director Dr Shamsul Anuar Kamarudin said immediate corrective action was taken once the incident was discovered. He said the hospital had provided the necessary explanation and support to the families involved, adding that preliminary checks found no breastfeeding or medical procedures that compromised the babies’ safety during the incident. “HTA understands the public concern after the incident was shared on social media. “The hospital has taken immediate action in accordance with established procedures while ensuring the safety and welfare of the babies remained the top priority,” he said in a statement today. Dr Shamsul Anuar said an internal investigation was underway to determine the cause of the incident and improve existing procedures to prevent a recurrence He said the hospital would also strengthen its internal control measures to enhance public confidence in its services. “HTA remains committed to ensuring patient safety is always prioritised and appreciates the cooperation and understanding of all parties,” he said. -- BERNAMA

Baby Swap Incident At HTA Resolved

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 — An incident involving the accidental swapping of babies at a ward in Tunku Azizah Hospital (HTA) has been resolved yesterday, with the babies safely returned .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 — Deputy Minister of Human Resources, Ramanan Ramakrishnan yesterday received a courtesy visit from the delegation of the US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC), led by former United States Ambassador Brian D. McFeeters, to discuss strategic cooperation in strengthening trade, investment, and local talent development between Malaysia and the United States. During the meeting, Ramanan highlighted Malaysia’s continued position as a key destination for foreign investment, particularly in the electrical and electronics (E&E) sector, in line with the country’s standing as one of the region’s major high-technology industry hubs. He said the presence of multinational companies from the United States in Malaysia has contributed significantly to the nation’s economic growth while creating more high-quality and high-income employment opportunities for Malaysians. Ramanan also stressed the importance of empowering local talent and enhancing skills training initiatives to ensure the workforce remains aligned with current industry demands and technological developments. In addition, he commended the growing commitment of international companies in providing employment opportunities for veterans and Persons with Disabilities (OKU), describing the move as an important step towards creating a more inclusive and dignified job market in Malaysia. He added that the MADANI Government remains committed to ensuring a conducive and investor-friendly investment ecosystem while continuing to prioritise workforce empowerment, talent development, and the welfare of Malaysians. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB RAMANAN RAMAKRISHNAN

Datuk Seri Ramanan Receives Courtesy Visit from US-ASEAN Business Council Delegation

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 — Deputy Minister of Human Resources, Ramanan Ramakrishnan yesterday received a courtesy visit from the delegation of the US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC), led by former United .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim yesterday reaffirmed the important role of MARA as the core institution in advancing the Bumiputera empowerment agenda through a more fair, inclusive and comprehensive national development framework. Speaking after a special meeting with MARA’s top management, Anwar said the institution continues to play a vital role in safeguarding the future of the Bumiputera community while contributing towards building a more sustainable and resilient nation. He stressed that efforts to strengthen Bumiputera empowerment must continue through expanded access to quality education, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), skills training, education financing, entrepreneurial development and support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). According to the Prime Minister, policies and initiatives championed by MARA have helped produce more skilled and semi-skilled workers, as well as competitive local professionals and entrepreneurs capable of contributing meaningfully to the national workforce. “These efforts will simultaneously increase Bumiputera participation, ownership and mastery in the national economy in line with present demands and future challenges,” he said. Anwar also highlighted MARA’s various transformation initiatives and entrepreneur scaling programmes, which have benefited millions of Bumiputera students and entrepreneurs by strengthening social mobility and economic participation. He emphasized that the Bumiputera empowerment agenda must continue to be driven with strong governance, integrity and effective implementation to ensure lasting impact for future generations. The Prime Minister said the special meeting with MARA leadership was aimed at ensuring the institution remains focused on delivering its mandate efficiently while adapting to evolving economic realities and national priorities. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

MARA Remains Core Institution in Empowering Bumiputera Development – PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim yesterday reaffirmed the important role of MARA as the core institution in advancing the Bumiputera empowerment agenda through a more fair, .... read more

Latest News

SINGAPORE and NEW YORK, June 18 -- Vibefam, the all-in-one operating system for fitness businesses, announced the completion of a US$1 million seed funding round led by a Singapore-based family office with a strong track record of backing category-defining technology companies. In addition to capital, the investor brings deep operating insight and a network built through years of supporting founders and working alongside leading venture investors.  Today, Vibefam powers more than 700 fitness locations worldwide and serves over 500,000 end users. The platform supports a diverse range of fitness businesses, including Pilates studios, yoga studios, strength and conditioning gyms, dance academies, martial arts schools, and boutique fitness brands. The investment will accelerate Vibefam's mission to help fitness businesses launch, operate, and scale through a unified platform that combines operations, payments, customer engagement, and growth solutions within a single platform. The funding comes at a time when fitness operators are increasingly seeking intelligent operating platforms that unify operations, payments, and customer engagement, replacing fragmented technology stacks and legacy software platforms. "Fitness businesses deserve technology that works as hard as they do," said Serene Lim, Co-Founder and CEO of Vibefam. "Many operators still juggle multiple disconnected systems to manage bookings, payments, customer communication, marketing, and reporting. We're building a platform that brings everything together, helping businesses operate more efficiently while delivering better experiences to their customers." The newly raised capital will primarily be invested into artificial intelligence and embedded financial services, two areas the company believes will fundamentally reshape how service businesses operate. In July 2026, Vibefam will launch Vibe AI, a messaging-native customer engagement platform that allows members to interact with fitness businesses through natural conversations. From answering enquiries and recommending classes to completing bookings and re-engaging inactive customers, the platform helps businesses deliver instant service at scale without increasing administrative workload. The company is also expanding its embedded finance capabilities through a growing network of financial partners, enabling eligible businesses to access funding directly within the Vibefam platform to support expansion, hiring, equipment purchases, and working capital needs. By leveraging operational data already available on Vibefam, eligible businesses can gain faster access to growth capital with significantly reduced paperwork and approval times. "We believe the future of business software will be proactive, intelligent, and deeply embedded into the daily operations of every business," Lim added. "The opportunity extends far beyond managing bookings and payments. We're building infrastructure that helps fitness businesses acquire customers, automate operations, access capital, and make better decisions every day." The funding will support continued product development, strategic hiring, and the expansion of Vibefam's AI and embedded finance capabilities as the company continues its evolution into a comprehensive operating system for fitness businesses. About Vibefam Vibefam is an AI-powered operating system for fitness businesses. The platform helps gyms, studios, and wellness operators manage scheduling, memberships, payments, customer engagement, reporting, and growth from a single platform. Today, Vibefam powers more than 700 fitness locations worldwide and serves over 500,000 end users. Vibefam is also backed by leading early-stage investors including Hustle Fund and Ignite Asia, alongside strategic investors and operators from the fitness and wellness industry who bring deep expertise in building and scaling consumer and service businesses. --  PRNewswire -- Source: Vibefam

Vibefam Raises US$1 Million to Build an AI-Powered Operating System for Fitness Businesses

SEREMBAN, June 18 -- The Negeri Sembilan Road Transport Department (RTD) has seized 145 luxury vehicles for various road offences through Ops Luxury in the first six months of this year. Negeri Sembilan RTD director Jasyindar Singh Sihdu said this was the result of inspections on 870 luxury vehicles such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota Alphard, Lexus and BMW Limousine with 262 offences detected. "They include Motor Vehicle Licenses (LKM), insurance coverage and invalid or expired driving licenses, vehicle modifications without RTD approval and violations of provisions under the Road Transport Act 1987. "During the operation, seven luxury cars driven by non-citizens including from China, Pakistan, Bangladesh and a United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) cardholder were seized," he said in a statement here today. He said that every offence would be dealt with without any compromise, including confiscation of vehicles and prosecution in court. He said his party would increase the frequency and intensity of enforcement operations including patrols, roadblocks and technical inspections to ensure compliance with traffic laws is always at the highest level. -- BERNAMA

N.Sembilan RTD Seizes 145 Luxury Cars In Ops Luxury

HANOI, Vietnam, June 18  -- KPIT Technologies, a global technology partner to the Automotive and Mobility ecosystem, announced an expansion of its Vietnam presence with the inauguration of a new technology center in Hanoi and strategic collaborations with two leading universities. With over 25 years of specialized expertise in mobility, experience across 2000+ vehicle production programs, and software powering 20+ million vehicles on the road, this marks an important step in KPIT's long-term commitment to Southeast Asia and its vision to help shape the future of Mobility A strategic base for Southeast Asia's Mobility growth The global mobility industry is focusing on strengthening its competitive advantage by reducing vehicle costs, improving manufacturing efficiency, faster release of vehicles and features, and differentiated consumer experiences. Southeast Asia is emerging as an important region in the mobility value chain. For KPIT, Vietnam represents both a strong local opportunity and a strategic gateway into a fast-evolving regional ecosystem. The new technology center will serve as a hub for engineering, innovation, and collaboration, supporting mobility programs across Southeast Asia and the broader Asia-Pacific region. KPIT's growing presence in Vietnam reflects its strategy of being close to the markets where mobility is being reimagined. The company already works with Mobility leaders across Germany, Japan, USA, China, India and other markets. The Vietnam center has already employed several local engineers and will add 100+ positions in the near future. Building a long-term talent ecosystem and job opportunities in Vietnam As part of its long-term vision for the country, KPIT has also signed Memorandums of Understanding with Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST- is Vietnam's first and leading technical university, known for its strong academic tradition, quality faculty, and research achievements); and VinUniversity (VinUni is a private, not-for-profit university built to international standards, with strategic collaborations with Cornell University and the University of Pennsylvania). These partnerships are aimed at strengthening industry-academia collaboration, developing next-gen Mobility talent, and creating huge job opportunities for students and young professionals in Vietnam. Commenting on the expansion, Sachin Tikekar, President & Joint MD, KPIT Technologies, said, "Vietnam is an important long-term market and talent hub for KPIT in Southeast Asia. We see strong potential in its talent, energy, and pace of innovation, with both homegrown and global vehicle makers continuing to invest in the country. With our new technology center and partnerships with leading universities, we are committed to building local talent, creating high-quality jobs, and establishing a meaningful long-term presence in the region."  About KPIT KPIT is reimagining mobility to create a cleaner, smarter, and safer world. With 25+ years of expertise, KPIT is transforming Software and AI-Defined Vehicles. www.kpit.com  -- PRNewswire -- Source: KPIT Technologies

Mobility Technology Firm KPIT Expands its Vietnam Presence with New Center and University Partnerships

JOHOR BAHRU, June 18 -- The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) will deploy 11,926 officers and personnel to ensure security and the smooth conduct of the upcoming Johor State Election. Johor Police Chief Datuk Ab Rahaman Arsad said the deployment will be carried out in five phases throughout the election process. “The deployment will be adjusted according to operational needs,” he told a press conference at the Johor Police Contingent Headquarters today. In addition, Ab Rahaman said the Johor Police Contingent had received additional manpower support from units under the Internal Security and Public Order Department (KDNKA) to maintain public order He said it involved 54 officers and 701 personnel from the General Operations Force, Federal Reserve Unit, PDRM Air Unit and Marine Police Force. Ab Rahaman said that for nomination day on June 27, a total of 4,832 officers and personnel will be deployed to ensure the smooth running of the process, including security and traffic control aspects. He said that throughout the campaign period, from after nomination day until 11.59 pm on July 10, a total of 3,903 personnel will be deployed to monitor all campaign activities, ceramah, gatherings and political programmes. On polling day, July 11, Ab Rahaman said a total of 11,814 police officers and personnel will be deployed statewide to assist the Election Commission (EC) in overseeing the voting process and ensuring voters can carry out their responsibilities safely. He also said the police would take strict action against any form of provocation, threats, incitement, the spread of fake news and hate speech involving the royal institution, religion and race (3R), which could affect public order. Meanwhile, he said a total of 12,710 police officers and personnel in Johor were eligible for early voting in the state election based on the electoral roll gazetted by the EC as of May 31. --BERNAMA

PDRM Deploys 11,926 Personnel For Johor State Election

PUTRAJAYA, June 18 (Bernama) -- The Court of Appeal here today reduced the general damages awarded to DAP adviser Lim Guan Eng from RM1.05 million to RM450,000 in a defamation suit filed against Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin relating to the revocation of tax exemption for Yayasan Albukhary. A three-member panel comprising Datuk Azhahari Kamal Ramli, Datuk Ahmad Kamal Md Shahid and Datuk Seri Latifah Mohd Tahar made the ruling after allowing part of Muhyiddin’s appeal against the Kuala Lumpur High Court’s decision. In the unanimous verdict, Justice Azhahari said after examining the three impugned statements dated March 9, 11, and 12, 2023, the High Court was correct in finding that the statements were defamatory and there was no reason to disturb this finding of fact. bootstrap slideshow “On the issue of quantum, having considered the pattern of events, and the evidence adduced at trial, we are of the opinion that the general damages awarded are manifestly high. “Accordingly, this court awarded RM150,000 for each of the three statements leading to RM450,000. We therefore substitute the sum of RM1.05 million with RM450,000,” he said. The panel also set aside the High Court’s decision in awarding RM150,000 for aggravated damages and RM150,000 for exemplary damages to Lim. However, the court granted Lim's cross appeal on interest and ordered that interest be paid at the rate of five per cent per annum from the date of judgment until full settlement. The panel ordered Muhyiddin to pay RM5,000 in costs to Lim, while the former Penang chief minister was ordered to pay RM30,000 in costs to the former prime minister. On March 27, 2023, Lim filed a lawsuit against Muhyiddin for allegedly making three defamatory Facebook statements on March 9, 11, and 12, 2023, involving him in the tax exemption issue. Reports on the matter were subsequently published in several newspapers and news portals. In Nov 2024, the High Court allowed Lim’s suit and ordered Muhyiddin to pay RM350,000 for each of the three statements leading to RM1.05 million in general damages, RM150,000 for aggravated damages and RM150,000 for exemplary damages. -- BERNAMA

Suit Against Muhyiddin: Court Reduces Guan Eng’s Damages From RM1.05 Mln To RM450,000