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KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 — The BUDI Agri-Commodity Cash Assistance amounting to RM400 has been distributed for July 2026 to eligible farmers and small-scale gardeners nationwide. The assistance is provided under the BUDI MADANI Diesel initiative to help ease the financial burden faced by those involved in the agriculture and agri-commodity sectors. Eligible recipients who submitted their applications between June 1 and June 30, 2026 will receive a total payment of RM400, comprising RM200 in available assistance and RM200 in interim assistance. The government said applications for BUDI DIESEL remain open, with payments to eligible applicants being made according to the scheduled payment cycle. Farmers and small-scale gardeners who have yet to apply are encouraged to submit their applications through the official portal at budidiesel.gov.my. The initiative reflects the government’s continued efforts to support the livelihoods of agricultural communities and ensure targeted assistance reaches those who need it most. -- MINUTESMY

BUDI Agri-Commodity Cash Assistance of RM400 Distributed to Farmers and Small-Scale Gardeners for July 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 — The BUDI Agri-Commodity Cash Assistance amounting to RM400 has been distributed for July 2026 to eligible farmers and small-scale gardeners nationwide. The assistance is provided .... read more

SEREMBAN, July 8 -- Several major roads in Seremban city centre will be closed and traffic diverted in stages on Thursday and Friday to facilitate a post-state polls simulation for the 16th Negeri Sembilan State Election at the Seremban City Council (MBS) Hall on Jalan Yam Tuan. Seremban district police chief ACP Mohd Yatim Osman said the road closures would be implemented tomorrow from 3 pm to 5 pm for a rehearsal, while on July 10, they would be in effect from 3 pm to 5.30 pm for the post-election simulation. He said among the main roads affected are Jalan Yam Tuan, Jalan Dato' Sheikh Ahmad, Lorong Khalsa and Jalan Lim Kee Siong. "The affected junctions and roads to be closed or diverted are Jalan Tuanku Hassan/Jalan Yam Tuan (Madura), Jalan Lee Fong Yee/Jalan Yam Tuan, Jalan Lim Kee Siong/Jalan Jawa, and Lorong Khalsa/Lorong Jawa," he said in a statement here today. Mohd Yatim said motorists are advised to use alternative routes, including Jalan Dato' Abdul Malik, Jalan Tuanku Hassan, Jalan Tuanku Munawir and Jalan Dato' Abdul Kadir. He also advised the public to avoid the affected routes during the closure period, comply with instructions issued by traffic police personnel on duty, and plan their journeys to avoid congestion. For enquiries on the road closures, the public may contact the Seremban District Police Headquarters Operations Room at 06-6033477 or 06-6014999. Polling for the Negeri Sembilan state election has been set for Aug 1, with nominations on July 18. -- Credit: FB - Ibu Pejabat Polis Daerah Seremban -- BERNAMA 

Several Major Roads In Seremban To Close For Post-state Polls Simulation

SEREMBAN, July 8 — Several major roads in Seremban city centre will be closed and traffic diverted in stages on Thursday and Friday to facilitate a post-state polls simulation for .... read more

JOHOR BAHRU, July 8 — Voters in Johor have been encouraged to fulfil their democratic responsibility by casting their ballots in the 16th Johor State Election (PRU16) on Saturday, July 11, 2026. The public reminder stressed that every vote represents a voice that can help shape the future direction of the state. Voters are advised to first check their voting details through the MySPR Check application or the official voter information portal before heading to their respective polling stations. They are also encouraged to plan their journey and allocate sufficient time to travel to polling centres to ensure a smooth voting process. The call urged Johor residents to demonstrate their commitment to democracy by coming out to vote and exercising their constitutional right in the state election. With polling day approaching, voters are reminded that active participation in the electoral process is an important responsibility in determining the future leadership and development of Johor. -- MINUTESMY

Johor Voters Urged to Exercise Democratic Rights Ahead of 16th State Election

JOHOR BAHRU, July 8 — Voters in Johor have been encouraged to fulfil their democratic responsibility by casting their ballots in the 16th Johor State Election (PRU16) on Saturday, July .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, July 8 -- The 36-year service of Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin in Malaysia’s statistics system came to an end with a lasting legacy, having strengthened the country’s statistical framework through the National Statistical System Strengthening (PSSN) agenda. The initiative became a key pillar in enhancing the coordination, quality and accessibility of official statistics across ministries and government agencies. The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), in a statement today, said the agenda had driven several strategic reforms, including the establishment of the National Statistics and Data Council (MSDN) at state and district levels, the modernisation of the Statistics Act 1965 (Act 415) to meet digital-era needs, and capacity building in artificial intelligence (AI) and data science. These initiatives have laid a strong foundation for a more modern, integrated and responsive data ecosystem. “Mohd Uzir also pioneered the data democratisation agenda through OpenDOSM NextGen, expanding public access to official statistics through an open and user-friendly platform, while enhancing digital initiatives such as MyPAKW and MyLabourHub to ensure statistical services remain relevant,” DOSM said. It added that Mohd Uzir also introduced a more detailed approach to data reporting through publications such as the Parliamentary Constituency and State Legislative Assembly Statistical Reports, MyLocalStats and District Gross Domestic Product (GDP), providing new insights for regional development and local planning. During his tenure at DOSM, Mohd Uzir also led several high-impact projects that leveraged data integration and advanced analytics, including the Central Database Hub (PADU), MyLabourHub, MyPAKW, TaniStats, the Life Expectancy Calculator and the establishment of the National Big Data Analytics Centre. Other initiatives introduced under his leadership included the Cause of Death Calculator, Malaysia Orang Asli Interactive Dashboard and Beyond GDP Dashboard. DOSM said Mohd Uzir’s career also saw the successful implementation of the Malaysia Population and Housing Census 2020, a significant milestone as it was conducted through a digital approach despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. At the international level, Mohd Uzir represented Malaysia at the United Nations Statistical Commission since 2017 and held several key positions, including Chairman of the ASEAN Community Statistical System and Chair of the Governing Board of the Statistical Institute for Asia and the Pacific. Under his leadership, Malaysia achieved global recognition by ranking first in the Open Data Inventory, while successfully hosting the 2019 World Statistics Congress of the International Statistical Institute and the ASEAN-Malaysia Statistics Forum 2025. These achievements further strengthened Malaysia’s position in advancing official statistics internationally. Besides institutional transformation, Mohd Uzir also promoted greater public appreciation of statistics through the declaration of National Statistics Day on Oct 20, while strengthening statistical talent development through the Statistical Capacity Building Programme, which produced 49 DOSM data scientists, and the Malaysian Institute of Statistics Training as a centre of excellence for capacity building. DOSM expressed its highest appreciation and gratitude to Mohd Uzir, who reached mandatory retirement yesterday after 36 years of service, for his dedication, exemplary leadership and significant contributions to transforming Malaysia’s statistical landscape. The department said his legacy would continue to inspire DOSM personnel in advancing the national statistical development agenda towards the prosperity of Malaysia MADANI. -- BERNAMA 

Mohd Uzir Leaves Behind Stronger, More Integrated Statistical System – DOSM

PUTRAJAYA, July 8 — The 36-year service of Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin in Malaysia’s statistics system came to an end with a lasting legacy, having strengthened .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 — R. Yuneswaran has welcomed the MADANI Government's continued commitment to strengthening Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA), describing recent initiatives announced by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim as a clear demonstration of the government's determination to restore confidence among more than 100,000 FELDA settler families nationwide. In a statement, Yuneswaran said the government inherited a FELDA burdened by significant financial challenges, including heavy debt, governance weaknesses and the impact of past decisions that affected the institution's financial position. He said instead of allowing those issues to persist, the MADANI Government had chosen to take responsibility by implementing the FELDA Recovery Plan, which allocates RM990 million annually from 2023 to meet FELDA's financial commitments. According to Yuneswaran, nearly RM3.96 billion has already been channelled under the plan, while the government's total commitment amounts to RM9.9 billion over a 10-year period. He noted that although the funds could have been used for other public infrastructure such as schools, hospitals and roads, the government prioritised ensuring FELDA's financial stability and protecting the welfare of settlers. However, Yuneswaran stressed that FELDA's transformation should go beyond resolving its financial obligations, urging the government to place greater emphasis on the needs of second- and third-generation settlers. He identified key challenges facing younger FELDA communities, including the shortage of affordable housing, limited access to residential land, insufficient quality employment opportunities and the need for greater exposure to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence (AI) and the digital economy. As the Member of Parliament for Segamat, Yuneswaran said the issue is particularly important because several FELDA settlements in the constituency have played a significant role in the district's economic development over the years. He proposed several measures, including accelerating housing projects for second-generation settlers, improving residential land ownership policies, attracting more investments and downstream industries into FELDA areas, expanding TVET and digital skills training, and strengthening infrastructure, internet connectivity and public amenities. Yuneswaran described FELDA as more than just a government agency, calling it a symbol of Malaysia's efforts to eradicate poverty, develop rural communities and build a strong Bumiputera middle class. He said the agenda to strengthen FELDA should transcend political differences and pledged to continue championing the interests of FELDA settlers to ensure the development of FELDA remains a national priority for the benefit of future generations and the country's continued progress. -- MINUTESMY

YB Yuneswaran Welcomes MADANI Government’s FELDA Commitment, Calls for Greater Focus on Future Generations

KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 — R. Yuneswaran has welcomed the MADANI Government’s continued commitment to strengthening Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA), describing recent initiatives announced by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim .... read more

8 July, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — Pawfund for Janaki - a campaign led by the non-governmental organisation (NGO), Persatuan Pembelaan Hak Anjing Jalanan Yang Tersisih Selangor (Pawtarian) today launches an urgent public appeal to keep 62 displaced street dogs safe, sheltered, and fed, following the recent land redevelopment that forced their relocation from Jinjang. The initiative seeks a modest but critical RM6,000 per month to cover boarding and food while long-term shelter plans progress. Pawfund for Janaki is raising funds through Kitafund at https://kitafund.com/campaign/19953  For years, Aunty Janaki—a former nurse now in her 60s—has been a tireless, informal caregiver to street dogs around Jinjang, Kuala Lumpur. Known to locals as a devoted “street‑dog guardian,” she treats each dog like family, remembering their faces, fears, and favorite spots in the shade. “These dogs aren’t strays to me,” said aunty Janaki. “They’re friends who found me when no one else would stop to see them. Every morning they would wait, and every evening they trusted I would return. I can’t break that promise, even if they are now gone from my side,” she added. For over four years, aunty Janaki has been caring for these 60 plus stray dogs around the Jinjang area. In that time these dogs had come to rely on her for food and basic care - in return she felt herself relying on them for her daily dose of happiness and purpose.  In early March, aunty Janaki received the news that the land where the dogs largely lived was set to be redeveloped. Anxious and directionless, she had to quickly relocate all the dogs or risk them being seized or put down by authorities. Thankfully, two good samaritans came to her rescue - content creator Sidney Rayos Michael and Navwin from animal welfare NGO, Pawtarian - stepped in and together with help from the public, they managed to relocate the 62 dogs in time.  “I’m not a hero,” said Sidney. “I’m just someone who refused to look away. We all have a voice—and when we use it together, great things can happen - in this case animals can get a second chance.” But that was only half the battle, now the real challenge has arrived. Finding a permanent home for the 62 dogs and finding a way to pay for their care in the interim.  While the dogs currently have a temporary shelter in the Klang Valley and the operators have graciously provided a substantially discounted rate, RM6,000 is still required monthly. This does not include any additional expenses that could be incurred if medical interventions for any of the dogs, which can happen regularly.  For nearly three months, Sidney and Navwin have worked day in, day out with aunty Janaki to keep the dogs safe. However, funds are now critically low. The team is calling on the public and fellow content creators to rally behind #PawfundForJanaki to raise awareness and raise the required funds monthly so their dear dogs don’t end up back on the streets.  “Fundraising is a marathon we can’t afford to stop running,” adds Navwin. “But every ringgit tells these dogs they matter. Hope is built one small act at a time.” As a lasting solution, Navwin and Pawtarian are building a 2.1‑acre sanctuary in Klang that will ultimately house up to 400 cats, dogs and other animals. The project requires RM500,000 in build-out costs, raised “brick by brick,” with a target to open later this year—timelines that are only possible with broader public support. The sanctuary will prioritise safety, hygiene, medical care, and enrichment—transforming survival into genuine welfare. “Pawfund for Janaki is step one—keeping these dogs safe today,” says Navwin. “Step two is harder but essential: a permanent haven where no animal’s life depends on tomorrow’s donations. Community is our backbone; with it, we can finish what we started.” Pawfund for Janaki is calling for all concerned citizens and animal lovers to lend a hand. “Even RM1 makes a difference when many people stand together. Amplify the story using #PawfundForJanaki. Share the Kitafund donation link. Tag creators and friends who care about animal welfare. Together we can make a difference,” Sidney concluded.   -- MINUTESMY 

Pawfund for Janaki Launches Urgent Appeal to Keep 62 Displaced Street Dogs Safe and Fed

8 July, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — Pawfund for Janaki – a campaign led by the non-governmental organisation (NGO), Persatuan Pembelaan Hak Anjing Jalanan Yang Tersisih Selangor (Pawtarian) today launches an .... read more

JOHOR BAHRU, July 8 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has expressed his appreciation to media personnel for their unwavering commitment to providing timely and accurate coverage of the Johor State Election (PRN Johor). In a statement, Fahmi acknowledged the hard work of journalists, photographers, camera crews and other media practitioners who continue to work on the ground to keep the public informed throughout the election campaign. "Behind every piece of news we read, there is a media person working tirelessly in the field," he said, thanking media professionals for their dedication in delivering the latest election updates to the people. Fahmi also extended his gratitude to the Bernama team for inviting him to visit the Bernama Media Centre in Johor Bahru during his trip on Tuesday. He expressed hope that all media personnel would continue to be blessed with good health, strength and determination as they carry out their responsibility of ensuring the public receives accurate and prompt information throughout the election period. The minister reaffirmed the important role played by the media in supporting an informed electorate by providing reliable and up-to-date news coverage during the state polls. -- MINUTESMY

YB Datuk Fahmi Fadzil Thanks Media Personnel for Dedicated Coverage of Johor State Election

JOHOR BAHRU, July 8 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has expressed his appreciation to media personnel for their unwavering commitment to providing timely and accurate coverage of the Johor State .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, July 7 -- Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (National Unity) Yuneswaran said the government's proposal to establish the National Harmony Commission (SKN) is still at the research stage, with no final decision having been made. Responding to an oral question raised by the Kuantan Member of Parliament in the Dewan Rakyat today, Yuneswaran said the government is conducting a comprehensive study on the proposal before deciding on its implementation. He stressed that any proposal related to the commission would not affect, challenge or alter the fundamental principles enshrined in the Federal Constitution. According to him, these include the position of Islam as the religion of the Federation, the jurisdiction of the Syariah Courts, the institution of the Malay Rulers, the special position of the Malays and the Bumiputera of Sabah and Sarawak, as well as Bahasa Melayu as the national language. Yuneswaran said the proposed commission is intended to strengthen national harmony, promote dialogue, encourage reconciliation and prevent conflicts in Malaysia's multicultural society. He added that the government remains committed to fostering unity and ensuring that efforts to strengthen national harmony are carried out within the framework of the Federal Constitution. "Harmony is a shared responsibility, and safeguarding national unity is essential to building a more peaceful and united Malaysia," he said. -- MINUTESMY

Proposed National Harmony Commission Still Under Study, Constitutional Safeguards Remain Intact – YB Yuneswaran

KUALA LUMPUR, July 7 — Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (National Unity) Yuneswaran said the government’s proposal to establish the National Harmony Commission (SKN) is still at the .... read more

SEREMBAN, July 7 -- Human Resources Minister R. Ramanan said the MADANI Government remains committed to ensuring that no community is left behind through initiatives aimed at improving education, strengthening community institutions and expanding opportunities for the Indian community. Speaking at the Program Celik MADANI 2026 and Program Dharma MADANI Series 3 here today, which was also attended by Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook, Ramanan said the government had allocated RM10 million under Program Celik MADANI 2026 to benefit 4,000 Indian children aged between four and six from B40 families. He said the allocation would provide subsidies for early childhood education and nutritious meals, describing investment in early education as the best way to nurture knowledgeable, competitive and future-ready generations capable of transforming their families' lives. At the same event, Ramanan said Program Dharma MADANI Series 3 channelled RM3.36 million to 168 Hindu places of worship. He said a total of 627 Hindu places of worship nationwide have so far received approvals amounting to RM12.54 million under the Dharma MADANI initiative. Ramanan added that since 2023, the government has introduced various initiatives for the Indian community, including the Kalvi MADANI programme, laptop assistance for higher education students, Smart Boards for Tamil national-type schools (SJKT), dialysis assistance, Indian village development programmes and financial aid for students entering institutions of higher learning. He said every allocation provided by the government must deliver tangible benefits to the people and be implemented transparently, with integrity and lasting impact. According to Ramanan, by investing in education, strengthening community institutions and creating more opportunities, the government is building a more just, inclusive and prosperous Malaysia for future generations. -- MINUTESMY

RM13.36 Mln Allocation Reflects MADANI Government’s Commitment to Empower Indian Community – Datuk Seri Ramanan

SEREMBAN, July 7 — Human Resources Minister R. Ramanan said the MADANI Government remains committed to ensuring that no community is left behind through initiatives aimed at improving education, strengthening .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, July 7 -- Three men pleaded not guilty today in the Petaling Jaya Sessions Court to charges of setting fire to three cars belonging to the wife of activist ‘Cikgu Chandra’ in March.  The accused, tow-truck driver A. Kumaran, 34; security guard S. Kisshen Nair, 32; and lorry driver P. Surendran, 37, are jointly charged with committing mischief by fire on two Perodua vehicles and a Proton automobile owned by M. Sri Uma Mahesvary, 50. The offence was alleged to have caused estimated losses of RM80,000 and occurred at approximately 3.00 am on March 10 at a residence in Taman Kinrara, Puchong. They were charged under Section 435 of the Penal Code, which provides for a maximum of 14 years imprisonment and may also be liable to a fine upon conviction. Deputy public prosecutor Nurfadzlin Mahmad Zulhasnan did not offer bail on grounds that the offence is serious in nature and does not merit it.  Should the Court exercise its discretion to allow bail, the prosecution proposed RM10,000 for each accused, subject to them being required to report periodically to the nearest police station, to refrain from interfering with or intimidating any prosecution witnesses, and to surrender their passports to the Court.  Lawyer Vinesh Segar, who represented all three accused, applied for bail on the grounds that his clients were each supporting families and, having not yet been proven guilty, had also given their full cooperation throughout the course of the investigation. Judge Noor Ruzilawati Mohd Nor allowed RM8,000 in bail for each accused, subject to the additional conditions sought by the prosecution. Previously, the media reported that police had opened two investigation papers relating to the incident of mischief and criminal intimidation involving activist ‘Cikgu Chandra’ that occurred in Taman Kinrara.  -- BERNAMA 

Three Men Charged With Setting Fire To Cars Of Activist ‘Cikgu Chandra’s Wife

KUALA LUMPUR, July 7 — Three men pleaded not guilty today in the Petaling Jaya Sessions Court to charges of setting fire to three cars belonging to the wife of .... read more