Category :

PUTRAJAYA, June 30 -- The final appeal decision of the prosecution against the acquittal of Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, scheduled for today, has been postponed to July 13 due to a  member of Federal Court panel being on sick leave. Court of Appeal president Datuk Seri Abu Bakar Jais, who headed the three-judge Federal Court panel, said the court was prepared with the decision, but could not give the decision today. "I and Yang Arif Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah are in court, but Yang Arif Datuk Che Ruzima is not with us because we were told that Yang Arif Che Ruzima is unwell and is on sick leave for today and tomorrow. It doesn't seem right to give the decision without one panel member," he said. Judge Abu Bakar said the court was informed of Che Ruzima's condition late yesterday evening. "We could do it yesterday by telling the registry to inform the parties that the decision could not be delivered today, but it was late in the day. I thought it would not be proper to do that. That is why I am up on the bench today to inform everyone. We think we need to deliver the decision on July 13," he said. Today's proceedings were attended by deputy public prosecutors Datuk Wan Shaharuddin Wan Ladin, Datuk Ahmad Akram Gharib and Farah Ezlin Yusop Khan while Syed Saddiq was represented by lawyers Datuk Hisyam Teh Poh Teik, Datuk S. Ambiga and Lim Wei Jeit. On June 25, 2025, the Court of Appeal acquitted and discharged Syed Saddiq, 33, of four charges of abetting criminal breach of trust, misappropriation of property and money laundering involving Angkatan Bersatu Anak Muda (Armada) funds, after allowing his appeal to set aside the conviction and sentence of seven years' imprisonment, two strokes of the cane and a fine of RM10 million decided by the High Court on 9 Nov 2023. The Attorney General's Office (AGC) subsequently filed an appeal in the Federal Court a day after the Court of Appeal's decision. -- BERNAMA

Decision On Syed Saddiq Postponed To July 13, Judge On Sick Leave

PUTRAJAYA, June 30 — The final appeal decision of the prosecution against the acquittal of Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, scheduled for today, has been postponed to July .... read more

Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman

Syed Saddiq Arrives At Palace Of Justice For Final Decision In Armada Funds Case

PUTRAJAYA, June 30 — Muar Member of Parliament (MP) Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman arrived at the Palace of Justice today to hear the Federal Court’s decision on whether he .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 30 -- The fairness of Federal Government allocations to state governments and the status of the ban on announcing government projects after election nomination day are expected to be among the focus at today's Dewan Rakyat sitting. According to the Order Paper published on Parliament's official website, Datuk Seri Doris Sophia Brodi (GPS-Sri Aman) will ask the Prime Minister to explain claims that Federal Government allocations to state governments are unfair and insufficient compared with the revenue collected, as well as the MADANI Government's efforts to improve the allocation mechanism. During the same session, Datuk Seri Dr Shahidan Kassim (PN-Arau) will also ask the Prime Minister whether the prohibition on announcing government allocations or projects after the close of nominations remains in force, and what enforcement mechanisms will be implemented ahead of the Johor, Melaka and Negeri Sembilan state elections. Meanwhile, during Question Time, Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob (BN–Bera) will ask the Communications Minister to outline the government's measures to strengthen media and digital literacy in response to the spread of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated content, including deepfake videos, as well as verification and labelling mechanisms to prevent visual manipulation on social media. Also, Chong Zhemin (PH–Kampar) will ask the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister about the country's electricity supply readiness to meet growing demand from data centres and the AI industry, Datuk Awang Hashim (PN–Pendang) will ask about the effectiveness of the mySalam scheme for the B40 group and Syahredzan Johan (PH–Bangi) will ask about the redemption rate of MADANI Book Vouchers for 2024 and 2025. In addition, Datuk Mumtaz Md Nawi (PN–Tumpat) will ask the Human Resources Minister about the effectiveness of TalentCorp initiatives, such as the Career Comeback Programme (CCP) in encouraging women to re-enter the workforce. Meanwhile, Datuk Iskandar Dzulkarnain Abdul Khalid (Kuala Kangsar) will ask the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister to provide the latest figures on the implementation of the Program Jualan Rahmah MADANI by state constituency nationwide, as well as the ministry's readiness to increase the programme's frequency to help ease the cost of living. Following Question Time, the Dewan Rakyat is scheduled to resume the winding-up debate on the Sexual Offences Against Children (Amendment) Bill 2026. Also listed on the Order Paper are the Dewan Rakyat's consideration of amendments made by the Dewan Negara to the Employment Insurance System (Amendment) Bill 2025, as well as the Cyber Crime Bill 2026. -- BERNAMA

State Allocation Distribution, Project Announcement Ban Among Focus Of Today’s Dewan Rakyat Sitting

KUALA LUMPUR, June 30 — The fairness of Federal Government allocations to state governments and the status of the ban on announcing government projects after election nomination day are expected .... read more

SEREMBAN, June 30 -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday launched the BAKAT MADANI initiative in Sendayan, Negeri Sembilan, describing it as a national effort to expand access to skills training and employment opportunities for young Malaysians. The initiative, implemented in collaboration with Government-Linked Investment Companies (GLICs), Government-Linked Companies (GLCs) and PETRONAS, is expected to benefit 25,000 youths and eligible participants nationwide throughout 2026 and 2027. Anwar said BAKAT MADANI is aimed not only at creating pathways for training and employment but also at ensuring that every Malaysian, regardless of background, is given a fair opportunity to realise their potential and build a better future. He said the MADANI Government recognises that not everyone begins from the same starting point, making it its responsibility to broaden access to opportunities, nurture talent and ensure that no one is left behind in the nation's development. The Prime Minister also expressed appreciation to all strategic partners involved in making the initiative a reality. He expressed hope that BAKAT MADANI would serve as a catalyst in producing a generation of Malaysians who are knowledgeable, highly skilled, possess strong values and are confident in shaping the nation's future. -- MINUTESMY

PM Anwar Launches BAKAT MADANI To Benefit 25,000 Youth Nationwide

SEREMBAN, June 30 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday launched the BAKAT MADANI initiative in Sendayan, Negeri Sembilan, describing it as a national effort to expand access to .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, June 30 -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday received a courtesy call from Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections, Professor Dr Yusril Ihza Mahendra, during which both leaders discussed efforts to further strengthen bilateral cooperation. In a statement, Anwar said the meeting focused on enhancing collaboration in the areas of legislation, governance and various strategic sectors of mutual interest. He expressed hope that the longstanding fraternal ties and close cooperation between Malaysia and Indonesia would continue to be strengthened for the benefit of both nations. "May the fraternal relationship and close cooperation between the two countries continue to be strengthened for the progress, security and welfare of the people of Malaysia and Indonesia," he said. Malaysia and Indonesia enjoy longstanding diplomatic relations and continue to work closely on regional and bilateral issues through various cooperation mechanisms. -- MINUTESMY

PM Anwar Receives Courtesy Call From Indonesian Coordinating Minister

PUTRAJAYA, June 30 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday received a courtesy call from Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections, Professor Dr Yusril Ihza .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 29 -- The Dewan Rakyat today expressed its condolences to Dewan Negara President Datuk Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah following the death of his mother earlier today. The message of condolence was conveyed by Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul during this afternoon's parliamentary sitting. “Honourable Members, it is with deep sorrow and sadness that I wish to inform this House that the mother of Honourable Senator Datuk Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah, the President of the Dewan Negara, has just returned to the mercy of Allah. "On behalf of all Members of this House and Parliament as a whole, I would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to Honourable Senator Datuk Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah on the passing of his beloved mother. I pray that he and his entire family will remain strong and steadfast during this difficult time," he said He also invited all MPs to hold a brief prayer for the deceased. -- BERNAMA 

Dewan Rakyat Records Condolences Over Dewan Negara President’s Mother’s Death

KUALA LUMPUR, June 29 — The Dewan Rakyat today expressed its condolences to Dewan Negara President Datuk Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah following the death of his mother earlier today. .... read more

SEMPORNA, June 29 -- The Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) has detected foreign tourism operators using local nominees for the operation of resorts, including accommodations, in Semporna. Its commander, Datuk Victor Sanjos said that the survey and initial information obtained involved operators among Chinese nationals investing here, and this is detrimental to the country's economy and poses a security threat. "Improper methods will pose a threat to the safety of tourists, as there are tourists from foreign countries. There have been tourists staying at resorts or unregistered homestays. "The existence of these accommodations is unknown to the security forces, so imagine if something happens, we (the security) do not know where they are. Another reason is also to prevent the centre from becoming a hub for scammers," he said. He said this to reporters after officiating the ESSCOM engagement session with operators of resorts and accommodations in Semporna here today. Meanwhile, Victor emphasised that there would be no compromise in taking action against tourism operators here who bring tourists or even fishermen into neighbouring countries through unauthorised entry points. He also said that the engagement session held with ESSCOM and tourism operators provided exposure to the community so that tourism centres operating illegally could be registered. "A few months ago, ESSCOM, together with other enforcement agencies, conducted a joint operation by inspecting illegal resort operations, those without licences, and involving ownership by foreign nationals from China," he added. -- BERNAMA 

ESSCOM Detects Foreign Tourism Operators Using Local Nominees In Semporna

SEMPORNA, June 29 — The Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) has detected foreign tourism operators using local nominees for the operation of resorts, including accommodations, in Semporna. Its commander, Datuk .... read more

LANGKAWI, June 29 -- The government's move to introduce a sea ambulance service, which is expected to begin operations early next year, has brought relief to Langkawi residents as it is set to improve access to emergency medical treatment, particularly for patients requiring referral to hospitals on the mainland. Langkawi Small Traders Association chairman Yusuf Zakaria, 60, welcomed the introduction of the service, describing it as a much-needed initiative. He said that although a water ambulance service operated by a non-governmental organisation is currently available, he was not fully aware of its operating procedures. “With a government-provided sea ambulance, I am confident the service will be better organised and carried out in accordance with procedures that ensure patients' safety,” he told Bernama today. Contractor Muhamad Hafiz Abdul Jalil, 48, said the service is greatly needed as Langkawi residents have long faced difficulties transporting patients to the mainland for treatment. He expressed hope that the initiative would be implemented as planned so that residents would no longer have to rely on ferry services. “It was extremely difficult without a sea ambulance and we had to depend on ferry services, which may not be suitable for transporting certain patients,” he said. For trader Masri Ahmad, 61, the sea ambulance is a facility long awaited by Langkawi residents, particularly in dealing with emergencies at night when ferry services are unavailable. He said the facility would not only benefit residents, but would also assist tourists requiring emergency medical treatment while visiting the resort island. “Langkawi residents are truly grateful to the government because we have been waiting for it for a very long time. It will not only benefit residents, but also tourists who may encounter health problems while in Langkawi,” he said. Yesterday, Finance Minister ll Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said the Ministry of Finance had allocated RM5.5 million for the purchase of a sea ambulance for Langkawi and to cover the service's initial operating costs. -- BERNAMA

Langkawi Residents Welcome Long-awaited Sea Ambulance Service

LANGKAWI, June 29 — The government’s move to introduce a sea ambulance service, which is expected to begin operations early next year, has brought relief to Langkawi residents as it .... read more

MELAKA, June 29 -- The Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has identified the need to build 81 new fire and rescue stations nationwide based on fire risk assessments, in order to strengthen preparedness and improve the efficiency of fire service delivery. Its director-general, Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohamad, said the JBPM currently operates 344 fire and rescue stations nationwide, while another 15 stations are under construction and are expected to be completed in stages in the next one to four years, depending on project complexity. He said the department determined the need for new stations based on fire risk analysis for each 100-square-kilometre area, thus ensuring firefighting operations can be carried out optimally. "Of the 81 proposed new fire and rescue stations, four have been suggested to be included under the Second Rolling Plan (RP2) of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), while the remaining 77 are still on the priority list, subject to financial capability and practicality of implementation,” he said. He told reporters this after attending the opening of the Cheng Fire and Rescue Station, officiated by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh and attended by Ministry of Housing and Local Government secretary-general Datuk Dr M Noor Azman Taib. He said the need for the construction of fire and rescue stations will be dynamically reviewed in accordance with the progress of development in every state, including the opening of new industrial areas and transit-oriented development (TOD) projects, which have the potential of increasing fire risks. In a related development, he said JBPM will advertise 522 vacancies this year, following approval from the Public Service Department (JPA) and the Ministry of Finance (MOF) to fill up 560 vacant positions. He said that of the total, 38 positions will be filled through the existing reserve list for senior posts, while the remaining 522 positions will be advertised this year. Meanwhile, Ab Rauf said the Melaka government will ask the Federal Government to approve the construction of three more fire and rescue stations in Selandar, Simpang Ampat and Kuala Linggi to strengthen security and accelerate emergency response times in the state. He said the construction of the fire and rescue stations, especially in Kuala Linggi, is necessary since it is located at the northernmost part of the state, with the closest existing fire and rescue stations being the ones in Masjid Tanah and Port Dickson. "The response time for firefighters to reach the area is about 20 to 30 minutes, that's why we ask that the fire and rescue station in Kuala Linggi be given priority to ensure the residents’ safety is better safeguarded,” he said, adding that it cost RM4.4 million to build the state's 11th fire and rescue station in Cheng. -- BERNAMA   

JBPM Identifies Need To Build 81 New Fire And Rescue Stations Nationwide

MELAKA, June 29 — The Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has identified the need to build 81 new fire and rescue stations nationwide based on fire risk assessments, in order .... read more

JOHOR BAHRU: The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) Johor seized 12 million smuggled white cigarettes worth RM13.46 million at a warehouse in the Free Zone Area, Tanjung Pelepas Port (PTP), Gelang Patah near Iskandar Puteri on June 8. Its director Aminul Izmeer Mohd Sohaimi said all the cigarettes were found at 2.30pm in a container following an inspection by the Container Control Unit (CCU), Gelang Patah Enforcement Branch. He said investigations found that the container from China transited through PTP before going to its final destination in Lisbon, Portugal. "A check found that the container was declared via the transhipment manifest form as carrying Photovoltaic System Components or solar panel components. "However, the syndicate involved is believed to have made false declarations regarding trade to smuggle undeclared cigarettes," he said at a press conference here today. The cigarettes are estimated to be worth RM4.8 million with estimated duties and taxes amounting to RM8.66 million, bringing the total value of the seizure to RM13.46 million. He said investigations were underway to track down the syndicate and the owner of the warehouse premises to assist in the investigation under Section 133(1)(a) of the Customs Act 1967. -- BERNAMA

Johor Customs seizes 12 million smuggled cigarettes worth RM13.46 million

JOHOR BAHRU: The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) Johor seized 12 million smuggled white cigarettes worth RM13.46 million at a warehouse in the Free Zone Area, Tanjung Pelepas Port (PTP), .... read more