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TOKYO, June 11 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has concluded his official visit to Japan yesterday, describing the trip as a success that further strengthened the longstanding friendship and strategic partnership between Malaysia and Japan. Speaking during a press conference with Malaysian media representatives who accompanied the delegation throughout the visit, Anwar said the mission had achieved its objectives of deepening bilateral cooperation, exploring new areas of collaboration and attracting quality investments and trade opportunities that would benefit Malaysia and its people. "Alhamdulillah, the visit went well and achieved its goal. We have strengthened the Malaysia-Japan friendship, explored new cooperation opportunities and attracted quality investment and trade to Malaysia for the benefit of the people and the country," he said. The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation to the Government and people of Japan for the warm hospitality extended to the Malaysian delegation during the visit. He noted that the relationship built over decades between the two nations continues to serve as a strong foundation of trust, confidence and growing cooperation across multiple sectors. Anwar also thanked the officers and staff of the Malaysian Embassy in Tokyo for their efforts in ensuring the success of the official visit. Special recognition was given to Malaysia's Ambassador to Japan, Dato' Shahril Effendi Abd Ghany, who concluded his diplomatic tenure in Tokyo at the end of the visit. "I express my heartiest gratitude to the Government of Japan and the people of Japan for the warm welcome and friendship extended throughout this visit. The relationship that has been built over decades continues to be the foundation of trust and increasingly close collaboration," he said. Anwar said he was leaving the Land of the Rising Sun with confidence that Malaysia-Japan relations would continue to flourish and deliver shared prosperity for future generations in both countries. The official visit focused on strengthening the Malaysia-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with discussions covering areas including economic cooperation, investment, trade, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, energy security and regional stability. Concluding his remarks, Anwar thanked his Japanese hosts, saying, "Dōmo arigatō gozaimasu. Sayonara." -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

PM Anwar Ibrahim Wraps Up Japan Visit, Strengthens Malaysia-Japan Ties and Investment Cooperation

TOKYO, June 11 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has concluded his official visit to Japan yesterday, describing the trip as a success that further strengthened the longstanding friendship .... read more

TOKYO, June 11 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his Japanese counterpart, Sanae Takaichi, have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the Malaysia-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with both leaders agreeing to deepen cooperation across a range of strategic sectors yesterday. During an official meeting in Tokyo, Anwar expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality extended by the Japanese government to him and the Malaysian delegation, while highlighting Japan’s longstanding role as one of Malaysia’s closest partners in development and industrialisation. "Japan has long been a close friend of Malaysia and played a pivotal role in our early growth, development and industrialisation," Anwar said following discussions with Takaichi. The talks focused on expanding bilateral collaboration in key areas of mutual interest, including security and maritime affairs, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, critical minerals, the digital economy, green transformation and energy security. The leaders also exchanged views on regional and global developments, particularly the situations in Myanmar and West Asia, as well as broader geopolitical and economic challenges facing the region. Anwar said the discussions reflected the strong foundation of trust and cooperation that has characterised Malaysia-Japan relations for decades. He expressed confidence that the friendship between the two nations would continue to deepen and evolve, creating new opportunities for economic growth, technological advancement and regional stability. Malaysia and Japan elevated their ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2023, paving the way for closer cooperation in trade, investment, technology, security and people-to-people exchanges. The latest discussions are expected to further strengthen bilateral relations as both countries navigate emerging challenges and opportunities in an increasingly complex global environment. -- MINUTES -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

PM Anwar, Japan’s Takaichi Reaffirm Strong Bilateral Ties, Expand Strategic Cooperation

TOKYO, June 11 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his Japanese counterpart, Sanae Takaichi, have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the Malaysia-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with both leaders .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, Jun 10 -- The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) is currently closely monitoring AirBorneo's operational disruptions following recent delays, cancellations and flight schedule changes that have affected the company's services in Sabah and Sarawak. CAAM's statement today said the airline attributed the disruption to operational and maintenance issues.    While stressing that safety issues must always be prioritized in flight operations, CAAM reminded AirBorneo that affected users must continue to be treated fairly and in accordance with the provisions of the Malaysian Aviation Consumer Protection Code 2016 (MACPC). "AirBorneo is reminded to take all reasonable steps to minimise inconvenience to affected users and ensure compliance with its obligations under the MACPC while maintaining the highest standards of operational safety," he said. The statement was issued following AirBorneo's announcement yesterday asking passengers to expect possible delays, cancellations and schedule changes over the next few days as it continues to manage operational disruptions that have affected flights across Sabah and Sarawak since June 5. CAAM advises affected users to check the latest status of their flights before heading to the airport and contact AirBorneo directly for the latest information, assistance and alternative travel arrangements. The statement informed that under the MACPC, airlines are required to provide correct, up-to-date and timely information regarding flight delays, cancellations or schedule changes, including the causes of disruptions and the options provided to affected passengers. According to CAAM, depending on the type and duration of the disruption, passengers may be entitled to appropriate care and assistance including food, communication facilities, accommodation, transportation, alternative flights to the final destination or refunds subject to the provisions of the MACPC. CAAM informed that if a matter is not resolved or consumers are not satisfied with the feedback given, complaints can be submitted to the agency via the FlySmart website at www.flysmart.my or via email at  consumer@caam.gov.my or call the hotline 1800-18-6966 (within Malaysia) or +602-777 517 (outside Malaysia). "Consumers who make complaints are encouraged to provide relevant information and supporting documents to facilitate CAAM's review," he said. -- BERNAMA 

CAAM closely monitors disruptions to AirBorneo flight operations

PUTRAJAYA, Jun 10 — The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) is currently closely monitoring AirBorneo’s operational disruptions following recent delays, cancellations and flight schedule changes that have affected the .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, Jun 10 -- The Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) has launched Ops Soga XI nationwide to combat illegal gambling activities which are expected to increase in conjunction with the 2026 FIFA World Cup which will take place tomorrow until July 19. Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk M Kumar said the integrated operation involved all state contingents.    "This operation focuses on monitoring and taking action against online gambling and betting syndicates, as well as platforms or websites that carry out online gambling and betting activities and promotions through social media accounts." "This operation also focuses on physical gambling and betting activities involving illegal gambling and betting premises, individuals who bet, betting agents and premises or individuals who promote physical gambling and betting," he said in a statement here today. Kumar said the operation was also joined by various enforcement and regulatory agencies, including the Communications and Multimedia Commission and Bank Negara, to identify and block platforms, websites and transactions used by illegal gambling and betting syndicates. He advised the public not to be involved in any form of illegal gambling and betting, whether as a player, bettor, agent, bookmaker or organiser. "Strict action will be taken in accordance with relevant legal provisions including the Open Gambling Houses Act 1953, the Betting Act 1953, the Penal Code and the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (AMLATFPUAA)," he said. -- BERNAMA

World Cup 2026: PDRM launches Ops Soga XI to curb illegal gambling, betting during

KUALA LUMPUR, Jun 10 — The Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) has launched Ops Soga XI nationwide to combat illegal gambling activities which are expected to increase in conjunction with the .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, Jun 10 -- The ongoing conflict in West Asia is putting pressure on the global aviation industry as airlines face rising jet fuel prices, changes to flight routes and higher operating costs, says an analyst. Endau Analytics founder Shukor Yusof said that so far the airline has been successful in handling the situation.    However, he said, the prolonged uncertainty has begun to affect business operations, especially for airlines that have weaker financial positions.  "The current situation is still uncertain, but the aviation market can handle it well." "We are dealing with a shortage of jet fuel coming out of the Strait of Hormuz. The situation is still tense, and airlines in particular, are being hit hard because jet fuel has risen to levels not seen in many years." "Airlines are facing significant challenges due to several factors. They are having to raise fares, manage shortages, and most importantly, deal with continued price increases.  "Jet fuel, which can contribute up to 40 percent of an airline's operating costs, is a major contributor to this issue," he said in Bernama TV's current affairs and talk show, Bernama World, titled "West Asian Conflict: Impact on the Aviation Industry", today.  Shukor said many airlines have adjusted their business models to accommodate passengers who booked tickets before the conflict began, while some international routes, particularly those involving Europe, have diverted their routes to avoid Iranian airspace.  He said Southeast Asian airlines, including Malaysia Airlines, are assessing and realigning their operations in Europe in response to ever-changing geopolitical risks.  Meanwhile, full-service airlines with stronger financial backing are in a much better position to weather prolonged disruptions than low-cost carriers.  “The aviation industry often faces the greatest challenges, and the stronger your finances are, the better chance you have of surviving longer than your competitors,” said Shukor.  Elaborating further, he said airlines backed by shareholders or sovereign wealth funds were more likely to survive prolonged instability in the Gulf region, while smaller airlines with weaker cash flows faced greater risk. Despite concerns about disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, Shukor stressed that the global market is not facing a shortage of jet fuel, but rather a price crisis driven by logistical challenges and geopolitical uncertainties.  He said jet fuel prices had soared as high as US$200 per barrel before falling to around US$145 to US$150, but were still almost double the levels before the conflict escalated.  "There is no shortage of jet fuel or crude oil. The problem is the price and logistics of transporting supplies around the world," he said.  -- BERNAMA 

West Asian conflicts increase cost pressure on airlines – Aviation analyst

KUALA LUMPUR, Jun 10 — The ongoing conflict in West Asia is putting pressure on the global aviation industry as airlines face rising jet fuel prices, changes to flight routes .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 10 – Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo today received a courtesy call from Malaysia’s newly appointed Ambassador-designate to the Republic of Finland, Dato’ Amarjit Singh, during a meeting focused on strengthening bilateral relations and advancing cooperation in the digital sphere. In a statement following the meeting, Gobind described the discussion as meaningful, highlighting exchanges on Malaysia’s ongoing digitalisation journey and the important role the ambassador-designate will play in fostering closer ties between Malaysia and Finland. The minister said both sides shared views on opportunities to enhance cooperation between the two countries, particularly in areas that support innovation, digital transformation, and economic development. Gobind expressed confidence that Dato’ Amarjit’s leadership and diplomatic experience would contribute significantly to deepening bilateral engagement and creating new avenues for collaboration between Malaysia and Finland. “I am confident that his leadership will help deepen bilateral cooperation, foster new opportunities for collaboration, and elevate Malaysia-Finland relations to greater heights in the years ahead,” he said. Finland is widely recognised for its strengths in digital innovation, technology development, education, and sustainability, making it a valuable partner for Malaysia as the country continues to accelerate its digital transformation agenda. The meeting underscores Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships that support economic growth, technological advancement, and people-to-people exchanges.   -- MINUTESMY  -- SOURCE: FB GOBIND SINGH DEO 

YB Gobind Singh Deo Welcomes Malaysia’s New Ambassador-Designate to Finland, Eyes Stronger Bilateral Ties

KUALA LUMPUR, June 10 – Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo today received a courtesy call from Malaysia’s newly appointed Ambassador-designate to the Republic of Finland, Dato’ Amarjit Singh, during a .... read more

TOKYO, June 10 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged nations to strengthen dialogue, cooperation and institutional reform to address growing global uncertainties, warning against allowing international affairs to be dictated solely by power politics and geopolitical rivalries. Speaking at the Nikkei Future of Asia Conference in Tokyo on Wednesday, Anwar said the world faces a complex landscape shaped by conflicts, strategic competition, economic fragmentation and rapid technological advancements. Drawing an analogy from ancient seafarers, Anwar said while sailors of old could neither predict every storm nor control ocean currents, they succeeded because they possessed a clear sense of direction. "The challenge before us is not merely to navigate uncertainty, but to shape a more stable, just and cooperative international order," he said. The Prime Minister stressed that Asia's remarkable economic growth was built on the foundations of openness, trade, investment and regional cooperation. However, he noted that the institutions and frameworks that have supported decades of prosperity are increasingly under pressure from evolving global realities. According to Anwar, countries should neither abandon these institutions nor preserve them without change, but instead reform and renew them to remain relevant and effective. As a middle power, he said Malaysia remains committed to building bridges between nations and fostering consensus in an increasingly fragmented world. "In a world that is becoming more divided, dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect remain indispensable," he said. Anwar also highlighted the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI), while cautioning that technological progress must remain people-centred and inclusive. He stressed that developing nations should be given a meaningful role in shaping global AI governance frameworks to ensure innovation benefits societies broadly rather than deepening inequalities. The Prime Minister said ASEAN's longstanding commitment to inclusion, dialogue and cooperation remains crucial in addressing emerging challenges and opportunities. He added that these principles continue to guide Malaysia's partnerships across the region, including with Japan, particularly in strategic sectors such as semiconductors, energy transition, digital technologies and artificial intelligence. Anwar expressed confidence that the international community can overcome present challenges by embracing cooperation and institutional renewal. "Our world today does not suffer from a shortage of power, but a shortage of clarity — clarity that cooperation is preferable to division, that institutions must be renewed rather than abandoned, and that leadership requires initiative, not resignation," he said. He added that with such principles guiding global action, today's challenges can be transformed into tomorrow's opportunities. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

PM Anwar Calls for Greater Global Cooperation Amid Rising Geopolitical and Technological Challenges

TOKYO, June 10 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged nations to strengthen dialogue, cooperation and institutional reform to address growing global uncertainties, warning against allowing international affairs .... read more

KOTA BHARU: Footage and witness statements at the Kampung Gok Kapur fire location are among the important clues in the investigation to identify the cause of the incident that destroyed 27 houses last Monday. Kelantan Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) director Farhan Sufyan Borhan said his department was examining all information obtained from residents and individuals who witnessed the incident to help complete the investigation. "We have taken several recordings from witnesses and individuals who were at the location when the incident occurred. All of this information is being examined to help identify the cause of the fire." "In addition, four samples were also taken from the incident location and were sent to the laboratory yesterday for analysis," he told Bernama today. Farhan Sufyan said laboratory analysis results were expected this week, thus helping his party confirm the cause of the fire which left dozens of families homeless. He said based on the fire pattern identified at the location, several hypotheses were being investigated, including the possibility that the fire was caused by a failure in the electrical system, cooking activities or playing with fire. "We are also not ruling out any other possibilities and all aspects are still under investigation. A decision can only be made after the laboratory analysis is complete," he said. Last Monday, 27 houses were destroyed in a fire in Kampung Gok Kapur, and the fire forensic team is still investigating the cause of the incident. -- BERNAMA

Witness footage helps in Gok Kapur fire investigation

KOTA BHARU: Footage and witness statements at the Kampung Gok Kapur fire location are among the important clues in the investigation to identify the cause of the incident that destroyed .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 10 — The Kuala Lumpur High Court has ordered Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor to pay RM67.5 million in damages to Lebanese jewellery company Global Royalty Trading SAL over the loss of 43 pieces of luxury jewellery that were not returned to the company. In a judgment delivered online today, High Court Judge Datuk Quay Chew Soon ruled that Global Royalty Trading SAL had successfully proven its claim and was entitled to recover the value of the missing jewellery. The court found that Rosmah, the wife of former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, had failed to ensure the jewellery entrusted to her was returned to its rightful owner. The judge further held that there was an element of negligence on her part regarding the disappearance of the items. Rosmah was ordered to settle the RM67.5 million payment within one month from the date of the judgment. In addition, the court awarded legal costs of RM150,000, with RM75,000 payable to the plaintiff and the remaining RM75,000 to a third party involved in the proceedings. The case arose from allegations that 44 pieces of luxury jewellery, including diamond necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets and a tiara, were sent to Rosmah for viewing and evaluation but were never fully returned to the Beirut-based company. Global Royalty Trading SAL filed the lawsuit in March 2023, claiming Rosmah had suggested that all the jewellery had been seized by Malaysian authorities under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001. However, the company maintained that only one of the 44 jewellery pieces was ever in the custody of enforcement authorities, while the remaining 43 items were never seized by police. The plaintiff argued that the missing jewellery could not be attributed to government enforcement actions and alleged that Rosmah had attempted to shift responsibility for the loss to the Malaysian Government. The Inspector-General of Police and the Malaysian Government were named as third parties in the proceedings due to claims that the jewellery may have been linked to police operations conducted following the 14th General Election in 2018 amid investigations into the 1MDB scandal. Rosmah has consistently denied responsibility for the loss of the jewellery, maintaining that the items went missing following a series of police raids at Pavilion Residences in Kuala Lumpur in May 2018. The court’s ruling marks a significant development in the long-running dispute involving one of the most high-profile luxury jewellery cases linked to the aftermath of the 1MDB investigations. -- MINUTESMY

High Court Orders Rosmah Mansor to Pay RM67.5 Million Over Missing Lebanese Jewellery Collection

KUALA LUMPUR, June 10 — The Kuala Lumpur High Court has ordered Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor to pay RM67.5 million in damages to Lebanese jewellery company Global Royalty Trading SAL .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 10 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on achieving the historic milestone of becoming India's longest-serving elected Prime Minister. In a message conveyed to Modi, Anwar described the achievement as a testament to the Indian leader's years of dedicated public service and leadership in driving India's development, prosperity and growing influence on the global stage. "Heartiest congratulations to Prime Minister Modi on this historic milestone. This achievement reflects his unwavering commitment and leadership in advancing India's progress and elevating its standing internationally," Anwar said. The Prime Minister also reaffirmed Malaysia's commitment to strengthening its longstanding relationship with India, emphasizing the importance of continued cooperation between the two nations. Anwar noted that Malaysia highly values its close friendship with India and expressed his desire to further enhance bilateral ties across various sectors for the mutual benefit of both countries. "I look forward to continuing our cooperation in strengthening bilateral relations and expanding opportunities for our peoples," he said. Anwar also conveyed his best wishes for Modi's continued success in leading India and expressed hope for enduring peace, progress and prosperity for the Indian people. Malaysia and India share strong diplomatic, economic and cultural ties, with both countries continuing to collaborate in areas such as trade, investment, digital economy, education and regional cooperation. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

PM Anwar Congratulates Modi on Becoming India’s Longest-Serving Elected Prime Minister

KUALA LUMPUR, June 10 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on achieving the historic milestone of becoming India’s .... read more

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TANJONG MALIM, June 16 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) is planning to involve private higher education institutions (IPTS) in the National Service Training Programme (PLKN) in the future. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir said, however, that the matter is subject to discussions with National Service Training Department (JLKN) director-general Maj Gen Datuk Marzuki Mokhtar. “He will determine the sequencing of the programme, including whether private institutions will participate alongside public universities. Following the involvement of public universities, private institutions may be included at a later stage. “We will also look at state-owned private higher education institutions, as every state has its own universities. There are also government-linked company (GLC) universities such as Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM), Multimedia University (MMU) and others, which will be given due attention,” he told reporters after the launch of the book titled Nahas Gerik: UPSI Berduka at Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) here today. Earlier, he officiated the pilot programme for the PLKN 3.0 at the public university level, which was also attended by Defence Ministry deputy secretary-general (Management) Datin Roszanina Wahab, Higher Education Department director-general Datuk Prof Dr Azlinda Azman, Marzuki and UPSI vice-chancellor Datuk Prof Dr Md Amin Md Taff. On UPSI becoming the first university to implement PLKN 3.0, Zambry said the programme had received an encouraging response, involving 1,005 newly enrolled diploma students from the June 2026 intake, comprising 567 male and 438 female trainees selected to participate. “At the MOHE level, we are fully committed to ensuring that PLKN 3.0 is implemented as effectively as possible. “After that, we will also roll out the programme at polytechnics and community colleges. However, at this stage, our focus is on public higher education institutions (IPTAs) first,” he said. Previously, Bernama reported that the programme followed a RM250 million allocation under Budget 2026 for a pilot implementation at the higher education level before being expanded to all IPTAs in 2027. Meanwhile, regarding the launch of the book today, its publication is an initiative by UPSI to document an event that had a profound impact on the university community and society at large, while also serving as a tribute to the victims and families affected by the UPSI student bus tragedy in Gerik on June 9, 2025. In the early hours of June 9, 2025, 15 UPSI students were killed when a specially chartered bus transporting them from Jertih to the university's main campus in Tanjong Malim overturned after colliding with a Perodua Alza multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). -- BERNAMA

MOHE Plans To Involve IPTS In PLKN – Zambry

SHAH ALAM, June 16-- An official of Pertubuhan IKRAM Malaysia (IKRAM) pleaded not guilty in the Sessions Court today to 158 charges of using his position for gratification totalling more than RM98 million between 2021 and 2025. Fakhrudin Abd Karim, 57, entered the plea after all charges were read out during proceedings that lasted nearly two hours before Judge Datuk Mohd Nasir Nordin. Under the first 149 charges, Fakhrudin was accused, in his capacity as an authorised signatory to a Maybank Islamic account belonging to IKRAM, of using his position to obtain RM81.95 million in bribes for an associate, namely a non-governmental organisation (NGO). bootstrap slideshow According to the charges, he allegedly instructed 149 fund transfers from IKRAM’s account to a Maybank Islamic account belonging to Ehsan Care Solution, an NGO in which he had an interest. For charges 150 to 158, the father of 10 was accused of committing a similar offence by directing nine other transactions involving the NGO’s funds into two of his personal Maybank Islamic accounts, amounting to RM16.32 million. The alleged offences were committed at IKRAM’s Hulu Selangor office in Bukit Beruntung, Rawang, between Jan 6, 2021 and Aug 6, 2025. The charges were framed under Section 23(1) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Act 2009, punishable under Section 24(1) of the same Act, which carries a maximum jail term of 20 years and a fine of not less than five times the value of the bribes or RM10,000, whichever is higher, upon conviction. Earlier, deputy public prosecutor Datuk Ahmad Akram Gharib proposed bail of RM1 million with two sureties, along with conditions requiring the accused to surrender his passport and refrain from interfering with witnesses. Lawyer Datuk N. Sivananthan sought a lower bail of RM300,000, arguing that his client was willing to fully cooperate with the investigation and that his son and a friend were prepared to post bail. The court granted bail of RM500,000 with two sureties and fixed Aug 7 for case management. Following the proceedings, IKRAM watching brief counsel Ashwida Abd Samad said the organisation had issued a notice requiring Fakhrudin to step aside from any decision-making role and barring him from involvement in operational matters. Earlier media reports said two individuals, including the deputy chairman of an NGO, had been remanded to assist investigations into the alleged misappropriation of approximately RM230 million in funds. -- BERNAMA

IKRAM Official Claims Trial To 158 Graft Charges Involving Over RM98 Million

GURUN, June 16 -- Two military personnel are believed to have died following an explosion during a training exercise at the Hobart Camp Shooting Range here today. The victims, a male and a female personnel member, were reported to have succumbed to their injuries while being transported to Sultan Abdul Halim Hospital (HSAH) in Sungai Petani. Kuala Muda police chief Assistant Commissioner Hanyan Ramlan, when contacted, confirmed the incident and said police received information regarding the case at about 12.30 pm today. Details surrounding the circumstances of the explosion and the type of training being conducted have yet to be officially disclosed. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Defence is expected to issue an official statement regarding the incident soon. -- BERNAMA

Two Soldiers Killed By Explosion During Training In Kedah

KUALA NERUS, June 16 -- Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the transparency and integrity of the system and mechanisms governing student admissions to public universities. UMT Corporate Communications Office director Zukiferee Ibrahim said the university views seriously a statement by Jitra assemblyman Dr Haim Hilman Abdullah, who alleged that places at public universities were being sold and that backdoor admissions were being offered to students who did not meet academic entry requirements. He said such allegations could create negative perceptions of the transparency of public higher education institutions (IPTAs) and erode public confidence in the integrity of the national education system. “The admission system for public universities in Malaysia is implemented through a transparent and orderly mechanism, and is subject to policies and regulations set by the relevant authorities. “Therefore, any statement that could mislead the public or cast doubt on the process should be examined based on credible facts and evidence,” he said in a statement today. Following the allegations, Zukiferee said UMT's management had lodged a police report against the Kedah state executive councillor to enable a professional, independent and comprehensive investigation to be carried out. He said that, as a public institution of higher learning, UMT would remain committed to upholding the integrity, transparency and credibility of the country's higher education system in the interests of students, society and national development. -- BERNAMA

UMT Upholds Integrity Of Public University Admissions System

ISTANBUL, JUNE 16 -- A group of 17 countries on Monday welcomed the memorandum of understanding (MoU) announced between the United States (US) and Iran, describing it as an opportunity to restore regional stability and support the global economy, Anadolu Ajansi reported. "This is an opportunity to restore regional stability and stabilize the global economy," according to a joint statement by the United Kingdom (UK), France, Germany and Italy. The statement was later signed by 13 other countries. They congratulated the US, Iran and mediators including Pakistan and Qatar on what they described as a diplomatic success. The leaders stressed that detailed negotiations should be concluded and the agreement implemented "swiftly and comprehensively," adding that they stand ready to assist the process. They also called for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the restoration of "unconditional and unrestricted freedom of navigation." Other countries that signed the statement were Japan, Canada, Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, the Greek Cypriot Administration, the Dominican Republic, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Latvia, Poland and Portugal. The group of leaders said they were committed to contributing to the effort, including through "resolute independent defense missions" aimed at reassuring commercial shipping and conducting mine clearance operations, in accordance with their respective constitutional requirements. The statement reiterated that Iran "must never acquire nuclear weapons" and expressed its willingness to work with the US, Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) towards that objective. The leaders also said they were ready to lift related sanctions in response to "clear and verifiable steps" by Iran on its nuclear program. They pledged to work closely with the US, Iran and regional partners to maintain momentum and reach a long-term diplomatic solution. It further reaffirmed support for the stability, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon and stressed the importance of a firm ceasefire. Regional tensions have escalated since late February after the US and Israel launched air strikes on Iran, killing more than 3,000 people. Tehran responded with attacks on Gulf states and Israel, as well as a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Washington and Tehran reached a temporary ceasefire on April 8 through Pakistani mediation before announcing a framework agreement to end the conflict. The agreement is expected to be officially signed in Switzerland on July 19. -- BERNAMA-ANADOLU

17 countries welcome US-Iran deal, urge reopening of Strait of Hormuz