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Sultan Ibrahim graciously received internationally renowned actress Fan Bingbing during an audience at Pasir Pelangi Palace in Johor Bahru on May 12. Fan Bingbing, who also serves as Melaka Tourism Ambassador, was recognised for her efforts in promoting Malaysia through the international film industry. During the session, discussions also touched on the achievements of Mother Bhumi, a Malaysian film directed by award-winning local filmmaker Chong Keat Aun. The film features an international cast including Fan Bingbing, Natalie Hsu from Hong Kong, Bai Run-yin from Taiwan, as well as Malaysian actors Pearlly Chua, Alvin Wong, Rithaudin and Pauline Tan. Mother Bhumi has brought international recognition to Malaysia through its success at prestigious film festivals and award platforms including the Golden Horse Awards, Tokyo International Film Festival and Far East Film Festival. Also present during the audience were film producer Wong Kew Soon and Fan Bingbing’s manager, Jersey Chong, who hails from Johor.

Sultan Ibrahim Receives Fan Bingbing at Pasir Pelangi Palace

JOHOR BAHRU, 14 MAY — Sultan Ibrahim graciously received internationally renowned actress Fan Bingbing during an audience at Pasir Pelangi Palace in Johor Bahru on May 12. Fan Bingbing, who .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, May 14 -- Local authorities (PBTs) nationwide have been urged to consider reducing rental rates for business premises, stalls and food courts under their jurisdiction until the end of 2026. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the move was a proactive effort by the MADANI Government to safeguard public welfare and assist hawkers and small traders currently coping with rising operating costs. “This strategic move aims to ease the burden of operating costs faced by local hawkers and small traders, thus stimulating economic growth at the grassroots level,” he said in a statement today. He said that the initiative could also help ensure the continuity of business operations, sustain job opportunities and strengthen the economic resilience of the local community. “By providing this rental reduction, we are not only assisting small traders to stay afloat, but also helping to ensure the stability of prices of goods and services for consumers,” he said. Nga said that the ministry would work closely with all PBTs to identify suitable implementation methods based on financial capabilities and local needs, to ensure public well-being and the urban economic ecosystem continued to be strengthened. “The welfare of the people has always been a priority for the MADANI Government. We want to ensure that no group is left behind in national development and continues to benefit from the country’s economic growth,” he said. Nga said that the move would also complement various ongoing efforts to assist the people and the small business community, including entrepreneurship assistance programmes, the provision of more conducive business facilities, the upgrading of food courts and public markets, and initiatives such as MyKiosk. Last Tuesday, the National Economic Action Council (MTEN) urged PBTs and state governments nationwide to reduce rental rates for premises or shops under their jurisdiction with immediate effect. Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the move was crucial in helping small traders, night market operators and micro-entrepreneurs cope with rising operating costs, which account for an average of between seven and 58 per cent of total business expenses. “They are exposed to weak cash flow and often rely on a single source of income. Without intervention, the risk of business closures could increase significantly,” he said during the online briefing on the global supply crisis. --BERNAMA

PBTs Urged To Consider Rental Cuts Until Year-End

PUTRAJAYA, May 14 — Local authorities (PBTs) nationwide have been urged to consider reducing rental rates for business premises, stalls and food courts under their jurisdiction until the end of .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 -- Police arrested a man and seized various protected wildlife parts worth more than RM5.3 million during a raid at an antique shop on Jalan Gaya in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, yesterday. Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department's Wildlife Crime Bureau/Special Intelligence Investigation (WCB/PSK) commander Datuk Mohd Zaki Ashar said the 53-year-old suspect, who is also the owner of the shop, was arrested during the raid at 9.45 am. Inspections uncovered 16 tusks believed to be from wild boars, nine teeth believed to be from tigers, 10 teeth believed to be from bears, 13 bezoar stones, and 394 swiftlet nests weighing 2,243 grammes. “Initial investigations found that the man admitted purchasing swiftlet nests and bezoar stones from a supplier in Lintas, Sabah, without a valid licence or permit. “The protected wildlife parts are believed to have been obtained from villagers in Tawau at low prices before being sold in the local market around Kota Kinabalu,” he said in a statement today. Mohd Zaki said all the items were kept without permits from the authorities, with the total value of the seizure estimated at RM5.32 million. The suspect and seized items were taken to the Kota Kinabalu district police headquarters before being handed over to the Sabah Wildlife Department for further action. The case is being investigated under Sections 41(1) and 41(2) of the Sabah Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997. -- BERNAMA

Over RM5.3 Million Worth Of Wildlife Parts Seized In Kota Kinabalu – Bukit Aman

KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 — Police arrested a man and seized various protected wildlife parts worth more than RM5.3 million during a raid at an antique shop on Jalan Gaya .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, 14 MAY -- Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi yesterday has praised local film Konspirasi for delivering strong positive messages and addressing challenges relevant to today’s modern world. He made the remarks after attending a special screening of the film at TGV Alamanda, Putrajaya, last night alongside members of the production crew and cast, including director Ghaz Abu Bakar and lead actor Adi Putra. According to Zahid, the film successfully highlights the values of courage in defending the truth, while also emphasizing integrity, teamwork, trust and the spirit of perseverance within a team. He also described the incorporation of modern technology and communication elements in the film as a major strength, making it more relatable to younger audiences and relevant to contemporary global challenges. “Congratulations to the entire production team, the cast and everyone involved in making this film a success. I hope local productions like this will continue to win the hearts of the people and eventually penetrate international markets,” he said. Konspirasi is expected to emerge as one of the notable local films capable of attracting audiences through its combination of action, positive messaging and modern cinematic storytelling. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ZAHID HAMIDI

Datuk Seri Dr. Zahid Hamidi Praises ‘Konspirasi’ for Promoting Courage and Integrity

KUALA LUMPUR, 14 MAY — Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi yesterday has praised local film Konspirasi for delivering strong positive messages and addressing challenges relevant to today’s modern world. .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, May 14 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has strongly criticised Norway’s decision to revoke the export licence for the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) system and its associated launcher systems, describing the move as unilateral, unacceptable and damaging to Malaysia’s defence preparedness. In a telephone conversation with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Anwar conveyed Malaysia’s “vehement objection” to the decision, which he said would severely affect the country’s defence operational readiness and the ongoing Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) modernisation programme. According to Anwar, Malaysia has honoured every obligation under the defence contract since 2018 “scrupulously, faithfully and without equivocation,” but said Norway had failed to reciprocate the same level of commitment and good faith. The Prime Minister warned that the revocation could have broader implications beyond bilateral ties, including ramifications for regional security and strategic balance. “Signed contracts are solemn instruments. They are not confetti to be scattered in so capricious a manner,” Anwar said in a strongly worded statement. He also questioned the reliability of European defence suppliers as long-term strategic partners if they reserve the right to withdraw from agreements without consequence. The NSM system is regarded as a key component in strengthening Malaysia’s naval defence capabilities, particularly under the Royal Malaysian Navy’s Littoral Combat Ship programme aimed at enhancing maritime security and operational readiness in regional waters. Anwar stressed that Malaysia expects all international defence agreements to be honoured with integrity, consistency and mutual respect between sovereign nations. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

PM Anwar Condemns Norway’s Revocation of Naval Strike Missile Export Licence

PUTRAJAYA, May 14 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has strongly criticised Norway’s decision to revoke the export licence for the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) system and its associated launcher systems, .... read more

GEORGE TOWN: Penang has great potential to transform waste into new wealth by attracting foreign investment based on high technology as a new economic driver for the state. Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican (BN-Bertam) said in this regard, he proposed that the state government draw up a comprehensive Green Waste and High-Tech E-Waste Master Plan. "The e-waste recycling industry has high potential because it involves processing valuable metals such as nickel, lithium and cobalt. "In fact, seven out of 17 licensed companies in Malaysia are already operating in Penang and this is an advantage that should be fully utilized," he said when debating the motion of thanks for the policy speech by Penang Governor Tun Ramli Ngah Talib at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting here. He, who is also the Chairman of the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), also emphasised the importance of the Waste-to-Energy (WTE) project which can solve the problem of solid waste while generating energy. However, he said its implementation required careful planning and full support from Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and the state's top leadership. Reezal Merican said this is not just an environmental issue, but rather a huge economic opportunity that cannot be missed. According to him, in this regard, the state government needs to act immediately before Penang falls behind in the green economy and the circular economy. Meanwhile, he also suggested that the state government provide a one-time incentive of RM500 to each farmer to help them cope with the recent soaring price increases in agricultural inputs. He said the proposal was put forward to ease the burden on rice farmers who were affected by the increasing costs of fertilisers, pesticides and other agricultural inputs. "The state government can consider providing a one-off incentive of RM500 to farmers to help them at this time. This is among the direct support measures that can be implemented immediately," he said. He said the agricultural sector, especially rice crops, needed to continue to be given attention by the state government given its importance in terms of ensuring the country's food supply. -- BERNAMA

Penang needs to draft a master plan for green waste, high-tech e-waste – Reezal Merican

GEORGE TOWN: Penang has great potential to transform waste into new wealth by attracting foreign investment based on high technology as a new economic driver for the state. Datuk Seri .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court here today allowed Datuk Seri Najib Razak's application to postpone the implementation of the USD1.3 billion compensation payment to SRC International pending an appeal against the court's decision last March. Judge Datuk Ahmad Fairuz Zainol Abidin, who is now a Court of Appeal judge, said there were special circumstances that justified the stay, including the large amount of claims against an individual, the precedent of a stay granted in Najib's tax case involving RM1.69 billion, as well as the fine imposed on him in a previous criminal case. "Factors to consider are the unusually large financial judgment amount imposed on the defendant, the financial judgment of similar scale in the Inland Revenue Board suit as well as criminal liability involving financial penalties." "The judgment and order that the defendants are facing simultaneously, when viewed as a whole, are special circumstances that justify the granting of a stay... it is better for this case to be fully decided at the highest level first before any enforcement is carried out," he said. In the proceedings held via the Zoom application today, Ahmad Fairuz ordered Najib to pay costs of RM2 million to SRC International and RM150,000 to each of the third-party defendants named in the suit. In his decision last March, the judge did not set the amount of costs that the former Prime Minister had to pay to SRC International and the five third-party defendants in the suit. They are former directors of SRC International, namely Tan Sri Ismee Ismail, Datuk Suboh Md Yassin, Datuk Mohamed Azhar Osman Khairuddin, Datuk Shahrol Azral Ibrahim Halmi and Datuk Che Abdullah @ Rashidi Che Omar. This was confirmed by SRC International's lawyer, Luc Choong, after the proceedings were completed. On March 31, the High Court ruled that Najib was liable for the USD1.3 billion losses suffered by SRC International Sdn Bhd after he was found to have breached fiduciary duties, abused his position and misappropriated company funds for personal gain. Ahmad Fairuz made the decision after allowing a civil suit filed by SRC International totaling USD1.18 billion and ordered Najib to pay the amount, in addition to the USD120 million he received from the company involved into an AmPrivate Banking account with a number ending in 964, bringing the total to USD1.3 billion. The court also dismissed Najib's claim against the third-party defendant with costs after finding that he, who had control over the company, could not abdicate responsibility to individuals who were merely implementing decisions made on his own instructions. SRC initiated the suit in May 2021, claiming that Najib had breached fiduciary duties, abused his power and misappropriated company funds for personal gain. -- BERNAMA

Datuk Seri Najib successfully delays USD1.3 billion payment to SRC pending appeal

KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court here today allowed Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s application to postpone the implementation of the USD1.3 billion compensation payment to SRC International pending an appeal against .... read more

Deputy Prime Minister Zahid Hamidi Urges Public to Stay Vigilant as Southwest Monsoon Begins Today

Deputy Prime Minister Zahid Hamidi Urges Public to Stay Vigilant as Southwest Monsoon Begins Today

KUALA LUMPUR 14 MAY — Starting today Malaysia is expected to enter the Southwest Monsoon phase, which typically brings lower rainfall along with warmer and drier weather conditions across most .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, 14 MAY -- PM Anwar Ibrahim yesterday received a courtesy visit from the President and Chief Executive Officer of the US-ASEAN Business Council (US-ABC), Brian McFeeters, along with a delegation in conjunction with the Mission Business Malaysia 2026 programme. The meeting provided an important platform to discuss the potential for enhancing investments and strategic cooperation across various sectors between the United States and ASEAN, particularly Malaysia. During the discussion, Anwar highlighted Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s competitiveness through several key economic frameworks, including the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), as well as the New Incentive Framework (NIF), which are aimed at delivering more targeted and results-driven economic growth. He stressed that these initiatives reflect the MADANI Government’s firm commitment to strengthening sustainability, economic resilience and the competitiveness of the nation’s industries, while ensuring that high-quality investments continue to generate long-term benefits for the people and the country. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

PM Anwar Strengthens Malaysia-US Economic Ties Through High-Level Talks with US-ABC Delegation

KUALA LUMPUR, 14 MAY — PM Anwar Ibrahim yesterday received a courtesy visit from the President and Chief Executive Officer of the US-ASEAN Business Council (US-ABC), Brian McFeeters, along with .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR,14 MAY -- Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today received an honorary visit from Seyyed Vali Reza Nasr, a distinguished scholar, author and international relations expert in the fields of West Asian politics and Islamic studies, who is currently in Malaysia at the invitation of International Islamic University Malaysia (UIAM). The meeting served as an important platform for both sides to exchange views on the escalating developments surrounding the US-Iran conflict, including its implications on global geopolitical stability, regional security and the ongoing global energy supply crisis. Anwar stressed the importance of continued diplomatic engagement and constructive dialogue by the international community in easing tensions and preventing further escalation that could threaten global peace and economic stability. He expressed hope that all diplomatic initiatives and peace efforts undertaken collectively would contribute towards safeguarding international harmony, stability and the well-being of people around the world. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

PM Anwar Ibrahim Receives Courtesy Visit from Renowned Scholar Prof. Vali Nasr to Discuss Global Geopolitical Challenges

KUALA LUMPUR,14 MAY — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today received an honorary visit from Seyyed Vali Reza Nasr, a distinguished scholar, author and international relations expert in the fields of .... 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