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KUALA LUMPUR, July 6 -- Malaysia’s future success will depend not only on economic strength or technological advancement, but also on the quality of its human capital, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said today. He said the country needed individuals who could think critically, communicate effectively and adapt to change in an increasingly interconnected world. “In such a world, a nation’s success is no longer determined solely by economic strength or technological advancement,” he said when opening the ADNI International Students’ Conference (AISC) 2026 here. Fadillah said the challenges of tomorrow, including climate change, public health, digital transformation and social inequality, could not be addressed in isolation and required collaboration among governments, educational institutions, the private sector, civil society and young people. He said the MADANI Government placed human capital development at the heart of national progress, echoing the principle championed by Malaysia’s third Prime Minister Tun Hussein Onn that a nation’s strength lies in the unity and character of its people.   “Technology may connect our devices, but only shared values, mutual respect and trust can truly connect our societies,” he said. Fadillah said true development must encompass education, well-being, ethics, creativity, sustainability and social cohesion. On the conference, he said it reflected the spirit of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by nurturing young people who understood the importance of quality education, inclusivity, strong institutions and strategic partnerships. He added that opportunities for intellectual discourse and cross-cultural engagement were vital in producing globally minded individuals with strong values and a strong sense of identity. He also reminded students that while artificial intelligence might become more intelligent, it would never replace wisdom, and technology could never replace compassion. AISC 2026, themed ‘Thriving Together: Diversity, Education and Wellness in a Digital World’, brought together about 150 local and international students, including delegates from Thailand, the Philippines and Indonesia, to exchange ideas and strengthen regional friendship and cooperation. -- BERNAMA

Malaysia’s Success Depends On Quality Of Human Capital – Fadillah

KUALA LUMPUR, July 6 — Malaysia’s future success will depend not only on economic strength or technological advancement, but also on the quality of its human capital, Deputy Prime Minister .... read more

MELAKA , July 6 --  Five men have been arrested to assist in investigations into a riot that resulted in serious injuries to two men in Jalan Pengkalan, Kampung Pengkalan Rama Pantai, here early Sunday morning. Acting Central Melaka District Police Chief Supt Halim Abas said his department received information about a fight involving a group of men at the location via the MERS 999 emergency line at 1.48 am.  "Initial investigations found that the incident occurred at about 1 am when two men, aged 41 and 46, riding a motorcycle allegedly stopped in an area near a temple to pick up a motorcycle that had been abandoned at the location. "While in the area, they were believed to have been attacked by a group of men using plastic chairs, helmets and a stick, causing one victim to suffer lacerations to his forehead and chin, while another suffered a fractured skull," he said in a statement yesterday. He said both victims were sent to the Melaka Hospital for further treatment and one of them was placed in the Red Zone. Halim said acting on information, five men aged between 23 and 34 were successfully arrested on the same day to assist in the investigation. "Initial checks found that two of the suspects have past criminal records, while the other three have no criminal records. All suspects have been remanded for six days starting today to assist in the investigation," he said. He said the case was being investigated under Section 326 of the Penal Code for intentionally causing serious injury using a weapon or dangerous instrument and Section 148 of the Penal Code for rioting using a weapon. -- BERNAMA 

Police arrest five individuals to assist in investigation into beating, rioting case

MELAKA , 6 July — Five men have been arrested to assist in investigations into a riot that resulted in serious injuries to two men in Jalan Pengkalan, Kampung Pengkalan .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, July 6 -- A Malaysian who was detained by the Macau authorities last month on suspicion of smuggling nearly three kilogrammes of heroin worth approximately RM2.09 million has been confirmed to have a previous drug-related criminal record in Malaysia. Bukit Aman Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department (NCID) director Datuk Hussein Omar Khan said the department received official information from the Macau police yesterday regarding the arrest of the 24-year-old man from Sarawak. “Our checks found that the man has two previous narcotics-related criminal records under Section 12(2) and Section 15(1) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952,” he said when contacted today. Elaborating further, Hussein said the drugs were concealed inside sardine cans labelled as tuna paste, which were packed together with biscuits before being discovered in the suspect’s luggage upon his arrival at Macau International Airport. He added that investigations are ongoing to identify the mastermind and other members of the syndicate operating in Malaysia. Authorities are also cooperating with drug enforcement agencies in neighbouring countries, as the suspect is believed to have used a route other than Kuala Lumpur International Airport to smuggle the drugs. “The suspect did not depart from Malaysia but from a neighbouring country to the north, and the drugs are believed to have been obtained from that country,” he said. According to Hussein, the ongoing cooperation between the NCID and the Macau Police is currently focused on intelligence sharing and efforts to identify the mastermind and other members of the syndicate involved. He also advised Malaysians travelling abroad to always pay close attention to their luggage and be fully aware of the contents of their baggage or any packages they carry to avoid being exploited as drug mules. Previously, Macau’s Judiciary Police said that a Malaysian man was arrested at Macau International Airport on June 20 after allegedly attempting to smuggle 2.987 kg of heroin worth approximately 4.18 million Macau patacas (about RM2.09 million). Authorities also found 49 neatly packed boxes of tuna biscuits. Each box contained two packets of biscuits and one can labelled as tuna paste. However, inspections revealed that several of the cans had been filled with a white powder, which was later confirmed to be heroin. Preliminary investigations found that the man is believed to have been recruited by a drug trafficking syndicate in Malaysia and was promised RM3,000 upon completing the assignment. He was also instructed to collect the drugs in a Southeast Asian country before smuggling them into Macau, where they were to be delivered to a nearby region according to the syndicate’s instructions. -- BERNAMA

Malaysian Detained In Macau Has Prior Drug Criminal Record – Bukit Aman

KUALA LUMPUR, July 6 — A Malaysian who was detained by the Macau authorities last month on suspicion of smuggling nearly three kilogrammes of heroin worth approximately RM2.09 million has .... read more

BUKIT BATU, June 4 -- Thousands of youths and members of the public from various backgrounds gathered in large numbers at the 'Kita Genk' MADANI Programme held in Bukit Batu this afternoon, reflecting strong support for the local campaign. The programme was also attended by Prime Minister and Pakatan Harapan President, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who met with the public and expressed support for Pakatan Harapan’s candidate for the Bukit Batu state seat, Arthur Chiong Sen Sern. In his remarks, the organiser said the strong turnout reflects the people’s desire for a stable, progressive government that prioritises public welfare and effective governance. He stressed that state development can be accelerated when there is close cooperation between the state government and the federal government. Such alignment, he said, is crucial to ensure the efficient implementation of policies involving development, investment, job opportunities, infrastructure, education, welfare, and overall public well-being. For this reason, the upcoming Johor state election is described as highly significant in determining the state’s future direction, particularly in ensuring development plans are carried out effectively for the benefit of the people. The programme concluded with a call for voters to support the development agenda presented, under the theme “Johor Forward, Vote for Hope.” -- MINUTESMY

Strong Public Support at Bukit Batu Kita Genk MADANI Programme as Leaders Emphasise Stable and Progressive Governance Agenda

BUKIT BATU, June 4 — Thousands of youths and members of the public from various backgrounds gathered in large numbers at the ‘Kita Genk’ MADANI Programme held in Bukit Batu .... read more

JOHOR BAHRU, July 4 – Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi reaffirmed the government's commitment to empowering smallholders through various initiatives under the Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority to improve incomes and strengthen the rural economy. He said this while officiating the RISDA Agromajestic Johor 2026 programme, which brought together smallholders and members of the local community in Johor. According to Zahid, the government's initiatives, including positioning RISDA as the country's rubber "anchor buyer", have begun to yield positive results, with rubber prices now reaching one of their strongest levels in the past decade. He said the initiatives have benefited more than 508,000 smallholders nationwide by ensuring they receive better returns for their hard work. Zahid also noted that RISDA's role is no longer focused solely on the rubber industry. Instead, the agency is expanding its efforts by developing underutilised land for the agro-food and agricultural sectors. He said the move aims to strengthen Malaysia's food security, reduce dependence on imported food, and create more income-generating opportunities for rural communities. The Deputy Prime Minister stressed that the government will continue to ensure RISDA remains an agency dedicated to safeguarding the welfare of smallholders while strengthening the rural economy for the benefit of Johor and the nation as a whole. He added that empowering the agricultural sector and supporting smallholders will remain among the government's key priorities in promoting inclusive and sustainable economic prosperity across Malaysia. -- MINUTESMY

RISDA to Continue Empowering Smallholders, Drive Rural Economic Transformation – Datuk Seri Dr. Zahid Hamidi

JOHOR BAHRU, July 4 – Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering smallholders through various initiatives under the Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority to improve .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, July 4 – The government is prepared to increase funding for Perbadanan Usahawan Nasional Berhad (PUNB) by up to RM2.25 billion for the 2026–2030 period, contingent on the agency's performance in advancing Bumiputera entrepreneurship. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the additional funding would be considered if PUNB continues to demonstrate strong performance in fulfilling its mandate while enhancing collaboration with other agencies involved in Bumiputera development. He noted that PUNB has emerged as one of the government's key agencies in implementing programmes aimed at strengthening Bumiputera economic participation. "If they continue to perform well, we are prepared to provide greater support. PUNB is among the agencies that have remained focused on delivering the priorities we have outlined, while working closely with other Bumiputera development institutions," he said. Anwar made the remarks when speaking to reporters after officiating the SPaRK 2026: Business Transformation programme in Putrajaya on Saturday. The Prime Minister said the government's commitment reflects its continued efforts to strengthen Bumiputera entrepreneurship through existing institutions, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary resources to deliver meaningful and sustainable economic outcomes. -- MINUTESMY

Government Ready to Boost PUNB Funding Up to RM2.25 Billion – PM Anwar

PUTRAJAYA, July 4 – The government is prepared to increase funding for Perbadanan Usahawan Nasional Berhad (PUNB) by up to RM2.25 billion for the 2026–2030 period, contingent on the agency’s .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, July 4 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stressed that the Bumiputera empowerment agenda must no longer be viewed as the responsibility of a handful of agencies, but instead become a national priority embraced by every ministry, government agency and government-linked company (GLC). Speaking while officiating the SPaRK 2026: Business Transformation programme organised by Perbadanan Usahawan Nasional Bhd (PUNB) today, Anwar said all government institutions must align their policies and programmes to ensure the Bumiputera development agenda is implemented comprehensively. He said the MADANI Government has introduced the Bumiputera Economic Transformation Plan 2035 (PuTERA35) as a long-term roadmap, with implementation closely monitored through regular progress reports submitted by ministries and agencies. "Every MADANI Government agency has a responsibility to implement national policies that not only drive economic growth but also ensure fair and equitable distribution of opportunities and wealth," he said. Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, emphasised that the government has no intention of establishing a new Bumiputera agency, preferring instead to strengthen existing institutions to improve policy implementation and avoid overlapping responsibilities. He noted that relying on outdated approaches while expecting different outcomes would not produce meaningful progress. "For that reason, I am not inclined to establish a new Bumiputera agency. Our focus is on empowering the institutions we already have and ensuring every ministry and agency plays its role effectively," he said. The Prime Minister also reaffirmed the government's commitment to driving Malaysia's economic transformation while ensuring that prosperity is shared fairly across all segments of society. He said the government remains committed to accelerating growth in high-value sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, the digital economy and the energy transition, while ensuring that the benefits of development reach those who need them most. According to Anwar, the MADANI Government is pursuing a balanced strategy of "raising the ceiling" to strengthen Malaysia's global economic competitiveness, while simultaneously "raising the floor" to provide greater support and opportunities for lower-income communities. He said this inclusive approach reflects the government's commitment to building a stronger economy that delivers sustainable and equitable prosperity for all Malaysians. -- MINUTESMY

Bumiputera Empowerment Must Be a National Agenda Across All Government Agencies – PM Anwar

PUTRAJAYA, July 4 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stressed that the Bumiputera empowerment agenda must no longer be viewed as the responsibility of a handful of agencies, .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, July 4 -- Patient-centred care must remain the foundation of health service delivery while innovation must be based on compassion to ensure that mothers and their families receive the best care, said Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail. The Prime Minister's wife said that excellence in maternal healthcare should not be measured solely based on clinical outcomes but also include aspects of dignity, respect and emotional support given to mothers and their families throughout the pregnancy and birth process. He said that while innovation continues to change the medical landscape, the human touch remains essential in patient care. "Innovation alone is not enough, it must be accompanied by compassion. The way you treat patients is important. "Excellence is not only measured by clinical outcomes but also assessed through the dignity, respect and support we provide to mothers and their families as they go through some of the most important moments in life," he said at the launch of the 16th Malaysian Obstetric Anaesthesia Symposium (MyOASym) 2026, here, Friday. Wan Azizah said the increasing complexity in maternal healthcare, including cases involving advanced pregnancy, obesity, complex heart problems and obstetric haemorrhage, requires highly skilled health professionals and stronger multidisciplinary collaboration. He called for the wider implementation of regular multidisciplinary simulation exercises involving anaesthetists, obstetricians and neonatologists to strengthen teamwork and the level of preparedness in handling high-risk situations. "By institutionalizing an early warning system and fostering a work culture that prioritizes clear communication, we are able to effectively handle high-risk situations and turn potential crises into success stories in overcoming challenges. "Let's move as a team, sometimes we work separately or in silos, and such practices are not very helpful," he said. The Bandar Tun Razak MP also advised the younger generation of healthcare professionals to always be curious and committed to lifelong learning, seek guidance, not be afraid to ask questions, continue to learn from clinical experiences and cultivate empathy alongside technical skills. Wan Azizah also welcomed the participation of healthcare professionals from all over Malaysia as well as Singapore, Hong Kong and Pakistan in the two-day symposium. -- BERNAMA

Innovation in maternal healthcare must be based on compassion – Wan Azizah

KUALA LUMPUR, July 4 — Patient-centred care must remain the foundation of health service delivery while innovation must be based on compassion to ensure that mothers and their families receive .... read more

JOHOR BAHRU, July 3 – Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today visited the Bangsa Johor KEMAS Preschool at Larkin Court together with Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi to observe the implementation of an early childhood education approach designed for children in the state. Ahmad Zahid said he was proud that the Community Development Department (KEMAS) had been entrusted to become part of the Bangsa Johor Pioneer School (SRBJ) ecosystem through the establishment of the Bangsa Johor KEMAS Preschool, describing it as the first initiative of its kind in Malaysia. He said the preschool was established as a continuation of the vision of Tunku Mahkota Ismail, Regent of Johor, to strengthen the state's early childhood education system with a more progressive and future-oriented approach. According to Ahmad Zahid, the initiative places strong emphasis on English language proficiency, the integration of technology in learning, and modern pedagogical methods that are aligned with future educational needs. "This initiative reflects the strong collaboration between the Johor State Government and the Federal Government in ensuring that children in Johor receive quality early education and are well prepared to face future challenges," he said. Ahmad Zahid stressed that the progress of a state begins with the education of its younger generation, adding that investment in early childhood education is essential to producing knowledgeable, ethical and competitive future leaders. He also expressed hope that more Bangsa Johor KEMAS Preschools would be established across the state, enabling more children to benefit from the initiative. "This effort not only strengthens the educational foundation of Johor's children but also represents a long-term investment in building a brighter future for Bangsa Johor," he added. -- MINUTESMY

Datuk Seri Dr. Zahid Hamidi Visits Bangsa Johor KEMAS Preschool, Strengthens Early Childhood Education Initiative

JOHOR BAHRU, July 3 – Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today visited the Bangsa Johor KEMAS Preschool at Larkin Court together with Johor Menteri Besar Datuk .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, July 3 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today received a farewell courtesy visit from Dato' Sri Dr. Mohd Uzir Mahidin ahead of his mandatory retirement as Chief Statistician of Malaysia on July 8. Anwar expressed his appreciation for Mohd Uzir's dedicated service and commitment in strengthening Malaysia's national statistical institutions, describing reliable and credible statistics as a vital foundation for evidence-based policymaking and the country's long-term development planning. The Prime Minister also thanked Mohd Uzir for his contributions throughout his tenure and wished him continued success and good health in his future endeavours. -- MINUTESMY

PM Anwar Ibrahim Receives Farewell Courtesy Call from Dato’ Sri Dr. Mohd Uzir Mahidin

KUALA LUMPUR, July 3 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today received a farewell courtesy visit from Dato’ Sri Dr. Mohd Uzir Mahidin ahead of his mandatory retirement as Chief Statistician .... read more