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Malaysia News

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 16 -- The government is strengthening various mitigation measures to reduce the impact of the El Nino phenomenon on the agri-food sector, including ensuring more efficient management of water resources, expanding the use of smart irrigation technology and providing assistance to affected farmers and rice farmers. Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said among the measures implemented were continuous monitoring of water levels in dams and catchment areas, integrated water resource management, the use of smart irrigation monitoring systems and drip irrigation systems to optimise water use. He said efforts to increase the resilience of the rice sector were also strengthened through research and development of new rice varieties that were more drought-resistant by the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), in addition to cloud seeding operations carried out when weather conditions permitted. "The Food Security Meeting chaired by the Prime Minister also asked MARDI to enhance research to produce new varieties," he said during Ministerial Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat today. Mohamad, when answering a question from Bakri Jamaluddin (PN-Tangga Batu) regarding the government's preparations in facing Super El Nino which will affect food supplies and rice imports, said the government always maintains rice supply stocks for a period of about six months in addition to continuing imports according to needs. He said the government also provided protection and assistance schemes for rice farmers affected by disasters including drought. According to Mohamad, for the first phase of assistance, RM45.24 million has been channeled to 8,224 rice farmers since 2024, while until June 30, 2026, a total of RM38.53 million has been distributed to 55,058 rice farmers involving 16,933 hectares of areas affected by drought in the north and east of the Peninsula. Mohamad said the government was also encouraging the development of large-scale rice fields, including in Sarawak, Pahang and several other states, to increase the country's rice production, in addition to expanding controlled environment farming practices to reduce the impact of weather changes on crops and the livestock sector. Commenting on a supplementary question from Azli Yusof (PH-Shah Alam) regarding the dumping of durians which caused prices to drop, Mohamad said the government would continue to strengthen efforts to expand export markets, especially to China through negotiations to facilitate logistics and customs clearance for fresh fruit and frozen products. "Our durians in China are currently mostly in big cities, while the small towns there have a much larger market potential," he said, adding that the government hopes that expanding exports can help stabilize prices and increase the income of local entrepreneurs. -- NAMED

El Nino: Government strengthens water management, helps rice farmers for food security – Mohamad Sabu

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 16 — The government is strengthening various mitigation measures to reduce the impact of the El Nino phenomenon on the agri-food sector, including ensuring more efficient management .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, July 16 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed his deep sorrow over the passing of Professor John L. Esposito, describing the internationally renowned academic as a close friend and one of the world's foremost scholars of Islam. In a heartfelt tribute, Anwar said he first met Professor Esposito in the early 1970s, with their friendship spanning more than five decades. He described the late scholar as a trusted confidant whose wisdom and counsel he greatly valued throughout the years. Anwar praised Professor Esposito's lifelong commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of Islam in the West and promoting dialogue between Muslim and Christian communities. He said the American scholar played a pivotal role in breaking down misconceptions about Islam through his academic work and public engagement. Among Professor Esposito's many achievements were founding Georgetown University's Centre for Muslim-Christian Understanding, editing the Oxford Encyclopaedia of the Islamic World, serving as President of the Middle East Studies Association of North America, and co-authoring Makers of Contemporary Islam with Professor John Voll. His widely read publications, including What Everyone Needs to Know About Islam and Who Speaks for Islam?, co-authored with Dalia Mogahed, helped broaden public understanding of Islam, particularly in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks. "John built bridges where others were content to build civilisational barriers," Anwar said, adding that Professor Esposito's scholarship encouraged dialogue, mutual respect, and greater understanding between different faiths and cultures. The Prime Minister also remembered Professor Esposito as a man of great generosity and integrity, saying he remained a steadfast friend through both good and difficult times. On behalf of the Malaysian government and people, Anwar extended his deepest condolences to Professor Esposito's wife, Jean, as well as his family, colleagues, and students. "May his scholarship and the dialogue he spent his life building continue to bear fruit. He was, to the end, a true friend to the Muslim world," Anwar said. -- MINUTESMY

PM Anwar Pays Tribute to Renowned Islamic Scholar Professor John L. Esposito

KUALA LUMPUR, July 16 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed his deep sorrow over the passing of Professor John L. Esposito, describing the internationally renowned academic as .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 16 -- Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has implemented 16 governance and code of conduct reform initiatives within the past six months, after recording a low score for the Corruption in Public Service Ranking under the Local Authority Star Rating System 2025. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories), Hannah Yeoh said that DBKL only obtained 0.08 percent of the five percent marks set, thus prompting the local authority to take drastic steps to realise the reality of the scores obtained. He said, based on the findings of a study by the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) after an engagement session with Kuala Lumpur Members of Parliament on March 2, four main recommendations were identified to strengthen DBKL's administration, governance, integrity and service delivery system. The Segambut MP said, among other things, taking action against five procedural weaknesses identified by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC). "It is the management of the implementation of the radio studio broadcast content production project, the management and distribution of the Ramadan Bazaar site, the management and monitoring of the contract implementation of various business license management services, the governance of the Malaysian Statutory Bodies Association Sports Championship, and the management of rental collection for People's Housing and Public Housing projects by DBKL. "In addition, we have also abolished the Special One-Stop Service Centre (OSC) Committee to ensure the separation of powers and avoid political interference in the development process and decisions," he said in response to a question from Tan Kok Wai (PH-Cheras) regarding the list of DBKL governance reforms during Ministerial Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat today. Hannah said that access to the OSC 3.0 Plus Portal is now also open to all Kuala Lumpur Members of Parliament to enable them to review development applications and submit their views to the Mayor before any approval is given. He said that DBKL also limited the Mayor's authority to approve donations to a maximum of RM3,000, while applications exceeding that amount must be decided by the Supreme Management Committee. Hannah said several new committees, including the Audit Committee, the Governance and Integrity Committee and the Mayor's Contribution Committee, were also established to strengthen checks and balances and avoid conflicts of interest. Responding to Tan's additional question, Hannah said the reform aimed to change the decision-making culture at DBKL from a model focused on individuals to a system based on good governance, collective decisions and integrity. Meanwhile, he said that the Audit Committee is no longer chaired by the Mayor, in addition to DBKL implementing work rotation for officers holding sensitive positions, introducing the use of body cameras in phases starting in the fourth quarter of this year, and expanding the digitalization of services. "A total of 170 online application services have been established as of July and DBKL is targeting 180 end-to-end services by the end of the year to ensure more transparent, fast and accurate service delivery. By 2030, all applications will be carried out online." "With the e-License system, we no longer need to rely on runners and we have also integrated e-License and SPJ (Department Enforcement System). "Through the renewal of the license period implemented starting July 1, we are extending the license period to three years to ensure that all licensees can deal easily with DBKL," he said. -- BERNAMA

DBKL implements 16 reform initiatives after recording low corruption score – Hannah

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 16 — Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has implemented 16 governance and code of conduct reform initiatives within the past six months, after recording a low score .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, July 16 — The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued a thunderstorm warning for several states across the country, with heavy rain and strong winds expected to continue until 3:00 pm today (Thursday, July 16). According to the latest advisory, the affected areas include Langkawi in Kedah, Port Dickson in Negeri Sembilan, the entire state of Melaka, and Tangkak and Muar in Johor. In Sarawak, the warning covers Serian (Serian), Samarahan (Simunjan), Sri Aman, Sarikei (Julau), Sibu (Kanowit), Kapit, Bintulu, Miri, and Limbang. Meanwhile, in Sabah, the affected areas are Kuala Penyu, Beaufort, and Tambunan in the Interior Division, the West Coast, as well as Kota Marudu and Kudat in the Kudat Division. The warning also includes the Federal Territory of Labuan. MetMalaysia said the thunderstorm warning is issued when there are indications of thunderstorms capable of producing rainfall exceeding 20 millimetres per hour, either occurring or expected to persist for more than one hour. The agency noted that thunderstorm warnings are short-term weather alerts, with each warning remaining valid for a period of no more than six hours. Members of the public, particularly those in the affected areas, are advised to remain alert, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during thunderstorms, and monitor the latest weather updates issued by MetMalaysia. -- MINUTESMY

Thunderstorms, Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Expected Across Several Malaysian States Until 3 PM Today

KUALA LUMPUR, July 16 — The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued a thunderstorm warning for several states across the country, with heavy rain and strong winds expected to continue .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 16 -- Police have arrested another individual to assist in investigations into the murder of a man at a hotel in Sunway Mentari, Petaling Jaya on July 8. Petaling Jaya District Police Chief, ACP Shamsudin Mamat said the man, in his 40s, was arrested last Monday and remanded for four days until tomorrow to assist in the investigation. He said the remand period of two men in their 20s and 30s who were previously detained expired today, and would be extended to assist with investigations. "The investigation papers regarding this case will be referred to the Deputy Public Prosecutor this week," he said in a statement today. Previously, the media reported that a man in his 30s was found unconscious in a hotel before being reported dead at 11.23pm. Initial examination found signs of injury on the victim's body, and the results of the autopsy at the University Malaya Medical Centre (PPUM) confirmed the cause of death was severe injuries due to the impact of a blunt object. -- BERNAMA

Another individual arrested to assist in Sunway Mentari murder investigation

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 16 — Police have arrested another individual to assist in investigations into the murder of a man at a hotel in Sunway Mentari, Petaling Jaya on July .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, July 16 – Malaysia continues to maintain among the lowest petrol and diesel prices in the region despite rising global fuel prices driven by the ongoing Global Supply Crisis. The government said the stability of domestic fuel prices reflects its continued commitment to protecting the people from the impact of volatile international energy markets. Through the targeted fuel subsidy initiative, the MADANI Government aims to ensure that assistance reaches those who need it most while keeping the cost of living manageable for Malaysians. The government noted that global supply disruptions and geopolitical uncertainties have continued to exert upward pressure on fuel prices worldwide, affecting many countries. Despite these challenges, Malaysia has managed to cushion consumers from sharp price increases by maintaining targeted subsidies and implementing measures to safeguard the welfare of the rakyat. The MADANI Government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring fuel price stability while balancing fiscal sustainability and providing targeted assistance to eligible groups. -- MINUTESMY

Malaysia Maintains Among Lowest Fuel Prices Despite Global Supply Crisis

KUALA LUMPUR, July 16 – Malaysia continues to maintain among the lowest petrol and diesel prices in the region despite rising global fuel prices driven by the ongoing Global Supply .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, July 16 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday spent time with around 700 underprivileged students from the Federal Territories who received special assistance through the A Celebration of Life and Peace programme organised by the ERM Foundation. Anwar said he and his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, were honoured to attend the event, which aimed to support and encourage children from low-income families. He also expressed his appreciation to the ERM Foundation for its generosity and commitment in making the programme possible, describing it as a meaningful initiative that fosters compassion while giving hope to the younger generation. In addition to receiving financial assistance, the students were also treated to a joyful birthday celebration held in a warm and festive atmosphere. "The smiles and happiness on the children's faces were truly heartwarming," he said. In his address, the Prime Minister encouraged the students to use education as a foundation for becoming individuals of strong character, urging them to respect their teachers, love their parents, families and friends, and contribute positively to society. He emphasised that knowledge is only truly valuable when guided by good morals, compassion and a strong sense of humanity. Anwar also expressed hope that the children would grow into a generation that is not only intellectually capable but also rich in values and integrity, enabling them to lead Malaysia towards a brighter future. He concluded by praying that Allah SWT would continue to protect and bless each child throughout their journey in life. -- MINUTESMY

PM Anwar Celebrates 700 Underprivileged Students, Stresses Importance of Education and Good Character

KUALA LUMPUR, July 16 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday spent time with around 700 underprivileged students from the Federal Territories who received special assistance through the A .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, July 15 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today chaired the National Food Security Council Meeting No. 1/2026, reaffirming the government's commitment to strengthening Malaysia's agri-food sector to ensure long-term food security and improve the livelihoods of farmers, paddy growers, livestock breeders and fishermen. During the meeting, members reviewed strategies to enhance the competitiveness of the country's agri-food industry while ensuring a stable and sustainable food supply for the nation. A key focus of the meeting was the anticipated Super El Niño phenomenon, which is forecast to affect Malaysia beginning in November 2026. Anwar directed the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) to immediately formulate mitigation measures to minimise the impact of prolonged dry weather on food production and to safeguard the welfare of farming communities. The council also discussed fisheries cooperation between Malaysia and Thailand. The Prime Minister instructed KPKM to expedite efforts to finalise the matter through the appropriate diplomatic and administrative channels, while maintaining strict food safety and quality standards. Anwar stressed that continuous engagement with local fishing communities must be carried out to ensure their products comply with the required standards, enabling them to remain competitive in the market. He said the MADANI Government remains committed to strengthening the agri-food sector through the adoption of technology, innovation and best agricultural practices to enhance productivity and resilience. According to Anwar, these efforts are essential to ensuring Malaysia's food supply remains secure while improving the well-being of those working in the agriculture and fisheries sectors, ultimately benefiting the rakyat. -- MINUTESMY

PM Anwar Chairs National Food Security Council Meeting, Orders Early Action on Super El Niño Risks

PUTRAJAYA, July 15 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today chaired the National Food Security Council Meeting No. 1/2026, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening Malaysia’s agri-food sector to .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 15 -- The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) together with service providers are implementing various improvement measures to overcome the problem of users receiving full phone signals, but no internet access. Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said among the measures implemented to overcome the problem of core line failures was upgrading the transmission network using high-capacity optical fibres. He said the measure also involved implementing redundant networks and providing alternative transmission routes to reduce risks or single points of failure. "The issue of no internet access even though users receive a strong phone signal or full bars can occur due to several factors that affect the quality of service," he said when answering a question from Datuk Anyi Ngau (GPS-Baram) who asked the Communications Ministry to state a comprehensive plan to overcome the problem of core line failures, during a question and answer session in the Dewan Rakyat today. Teo said the situation could occur due to network capacity congestion due to high data usage as well as disruptions or damage to transmission lines. Other physical factors that also contribute are incidents of fiber optic cable cutting, vandalism, theft, natural disasters, wild animal threats and construction work. "Apart from network factors, user experience is also influenced by device conditions, phone settings, type of subscription plan and remaining available data quota," he said. Teo said that to ensure continuity of services in the event of disruptions, MCMC has also upgraded support facilities such as backup power generation systems, in addition to all communication sites being continuously monitored by service providers through the Network Monitoring Centre (NMC) which operates 24 hours a day. "To improve the security of towers under the JENDELA Plan initiative, Service Providers have taken steps to strengthen risky communication tower sites by installing anti-theft and vandalism equipment such as installing iron conduit to prevent copper cables from being cut and stolen," he said. -- BERNAMA

MCMC upgrades fibre optic network to address full signal issue, no internet access

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 15 — The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) together with service providers are implementing various improvement measures to overcome the problem of users receiving full phone .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 15 -- The Federal Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (FELCRA) Berhad needs to seriously implement the improvement recommendations put forward by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) regarding the management of oil palm plantation procurement and comply with all statutory requirements. PAC chairman Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin said absolute compliance with the strengthened new procurement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) was very critical to ensure the sustainability of the company's investments. "It is also to avoid any risk of loss in the future and ensure the company's long-term financial stability," he said at a press conference in Parliament today. Mas Ermieyati said the PAC had presented the Parliamentary PAC Statement on the Follow-up Action by the Ministry/Agency on the Recommendations of the Parliamentary PAC Statement Regarding the Management of Oil Palm Plantation Acquisition by the Federal Land Consolidation and Reclamation Authority (FELCRA) under the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW), today. He said the statement was to inform the follow-up actions taken by KKDW and FELCRA Berhad on the nine recommendations submitted by PAC, following the issue of governance weaknesses in the procurement of four commercial oil palm plantations as reported in the Auditor General's Report (LKAN) 2/2025. Mas Ermieyati said that to reduce the company's financial burden, FELCRA decided to postpone any new commercial land bank acquisitions , and is now giving priority to the Estate Replanting Programme involving an allocation of RM52 million. Regarding the investment aspect, he explained that changing operating costs and the need for a large-scale replanting program had shifted the Return on Investment (ROI) point for Telupid Estate from the original target of the ninth year to the 19th year (2040). In this regard, he said PAC requested that future financial simulations be carried out by integrating break-even analysis. Meanwhile, he informed that FELCRA's new SOP now requires the external consultant's viability assessment report to be presented to the Board of Directors, in addition to setting a cooling-off period of 15 to 30 days to sign the agreement. "However, PAC emphasizes that compliance with this SOP is very critical given that its effectiveness has not yet been tested because no new commercial asset acquisitions have been implemented." "In conclusion, FELCRA Berhad must be serious in implementing the recommended actions and comply with all statutory requirements that have been set," he said. -- BERNAMA

FELCRA needs to seriously comply with statutory requirements – PAC

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 15 — The Federal Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (FELCRA) Berhad needs to seriously implement the improvement recommendations put forward by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) regarding .... read more

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