Category :

Malaysia News

KOTA BHARU, JUNE 25 -- The Kelantan Road Transport Department (JPJ) insists that the Rohingya ethnic group is not eligible to have a driving licence in this country due to their status as refugees, said its director, Mohd Misuari Abdullah. He said that the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) card held by the group in question is not an official identification document that qualifies them to apply for a driving licence. He said, however, throughout the enforcement operations, his party had never detected any Rohingya citizens with valid driving licenses. On the other hand, Mohd Misuari said that the modus operandi often used by this group when detained at roadblocks is to present their UNHCR card to gain sympathy in order to escape. He also dismissed allegations about the existence of a syndicate that helped these foreigners obtain legal driving licenses. "Intelligence results have found that no such documents or syndicates have been detected in Kelantan so far," he told Bernama recently. To prevent this issue from continuing to spread, Kelantan JPJ is currently intensifying enforcement operations continuously in several focus locations around Kota Bharu, Ketereh, Melor, Pasir Tumboh and Tanah Merah. He said that a total of 576 vehicles driven by foreigners had been inspected so far this month, with 457 of them seized and 908 summonses issued for various offences under the Road Transport Act 1987. "JPJ Kelantan also issued a stern warning to local residents who rent out or allow their vehicles to be used by Rohingyas without a license," he said. Mohd Misuari said the owner of the vehicle involved will no longer just be compounded, but will instead be brought to court under Section 23(2) of the Road Transport Act 1987. "Kelantan is now among the earliest states to take the approach of taking vehicle owners directly to court for the sake of public safety and more effective enforcement of road laws," he said. Previously, approximately 85 percent of foreigners who were taken into action in the Foreigner Guide Operation in Kelantan from last January to June 18 were of the Rohingya ethnic group. The results of monitoring and enforcement carried out found that the majority of them were detected driving without a valid license in addition to committing various other offences under the Road Transport Act 1987. -- BERNAMA

UNHCR card holders are not eligible to have a driving licence – Kelantan JPJ

KOTA BHARU, JUNE 25 — The Kelantan Road Transport Department (JPJ) insists that the Rohingya ethnic group is not eligible to have a driving licence in this country due to .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR: The implementation of the fuel subsidy targeting program under BUDI MADANI involves a total consumption of 11.1 billion litres and a sales value of around RM 22.1 billion, with RM11.2 billion of which being the total subsidy borne by the government as of May 31, 2026. According to the Ministry of Finance (MOF), since the crisis in West Asia, BUDI MADANI subsidy expenditure which has benefited almost 14 million Malaysians has increased by an average of three times compared to the same period in 2025. "The government will continue to monitor the implementation of the BUDI MADANI programme and implement appropriate improvements from time to time to ensure that assistance is channelled fairly, effectively and targeted to those who are truly in need," said the MOF in a written response to the Dewan Rakyat published on the Parliament website today. MOF answered a question from Datuk Seri Dr. Ronald Kiandee (PN-Beluran) regarding the number of individuals enjoying the BUDI program for fuel as of May 2026 and the amount of subsidies that have been distributed. According to the ministry, no application needs to be made to enjoy BUDI MADANI since the eligibility criteria set are clear and simple, namely Malaysian citizens holding MyKad who have a valid driving license and are from an eligible class. To ensure that eligible groups are not left out of enjoying this assistance, MOF informed that the government has implemented various measures including the provision of an eligibility and transaction review portal, a BUDI MADANI customer service centre and continuous announcements through various media channels. MOF informed that, in addition, the government is also continuously implementing improvements based on usage data and feedback received. -- BERNAMA

BUDI MADANI subsidies channel RM11.2 billion, benefiting almost 14 million people as of 31 May 2026

KUALA LUMPUR: The implementation of the fuel subsidy targeting program under BUDI MADANI involves a total consumption of 11.1 billion litres and a sales value of around RM 22.1 billion, .... read more

ALOR GAJAH, June 25 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today paid tribute to Malaysia’s civil servants, describing them as the backbone of the nation’s recent achievements and growing international reputation. Speaking during a friendly engagement session with public sector employees from Melaka, Negeri Sembilan and Johor in Alor Gajah, Anwar expressed his appreciation for the dedication and commitment shown by civil servants in driving the country’s development and implementing government policies effectively. “I extend my highest respect and appreciation to all civil servants who have worked tirelessly to ensure our nation continues to move forward and is increasingly respected on the international stage,” he said. Anwar noted that Malaysia’s recent accomplishments, including its rise by 11 places to become the world’s 15th most competitive economy in the 2026 World Competitiveness Ranking, would not have been possible without the competence and professionalism of the public service. “This success is not the achievement of one or two individuals, but the result of the collective efforts of civil servants serving across the country,” he said. The Prime Minister said he had witnessed firsthand the growing confidence of the international community in Malaysia during his recent official visits to Japan, Russia and Turkmenistan. According to him, several strategic partnerships involving energy, trade and investment were successfully secured due to Malaysia’s political stability, clear policy direction and the efficiency of its government machinery. “Various strategic collaborations have been realised because Malaysia is seen as a stable country with a capable administration that can implement decisions effectively and efficiently,” he said. However, Anwar stressed that the country must not become complacent despite its achievements. He pointed out that the global landscape is evolving rapidly with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), the digital economy, emerging technologies and increasingly complex geopolitical challenges. As such, he called on civil servants to embrace a mindset of continuous improvement and adaptability. “The entire civil service must possess a strong willingness to change, adapt to new demands and continuously enhance its capabilities to meet future challenges,” he said. Drawing on the principle of itqan fil amal – striving for excellence in every undertaking – Anwar urged public servants to carry out their responsibilities with the highest level of professionalism and integrity. He also warned against bureaucratic delays, inefficiency and resistance to reform, saying such practices could undermine the government’s efforts to modernise the public sector. “We must not allow a culture of delay, bureaucratic red tape or resistance to change to hinder the reform agenda that we are implementing,” he said. Anwar expressed confidence that with strong ideals, sound values, good character and an unwavering commitment to public service, Malaysia would be able to achieve greater progress and secure a better future for the next generation. “Insya-Allah, together we can elevate Malaysia to a higher level for the benefit of future generations,” he added. -- MINUTESMY

Civil Service Key to Malaysia’s Global Success, Says PM Anwar

ALOR GAJAH, June 25 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today paid tribute to Malaysia’s civil servants, describing them as the backbone of the nation’s recent achievements and growing .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR,JUNE 24 -- The New Pantai Expressway Extension Project (NPE 2) will use a barrier-free toll collection system or Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) when fully completed to reduce traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. IJM Corporation Berhad (IJM) Toll Division Chief Executive Officer Chua Lay Hoon said the project, which is expected to be fully completed in 2029, involves a main route of 6.4 kilometres (km) or 15 km in total, including the ramp from the Pantai Dalam Toll Plaza to Jalan Istana here. "If the MLFF has not been implemented after this project is completed, the transition to another toll system can be done with changes to the toll collection equipment without requiring major modifications," he said at a special briefing on the NPE 2 Extension Project with the media here today. He said the project, worth RM1.7 billion, was currently at a progress level of about six percent, which included design and modelling work, with physical work at the construction site commencing last month. Chua said the highway extension project strengthens the integrated highway network in the Klang Valley through better connectivity between the NPE, Sungai Besi Expressway (Besraya) and the proposed Istana-Kiara Expressway (LIKE) in line with the aspirations of the Kuala Lumpur Traffic Master Plan 2040. Chua, when commenting on traffic management during construction work, said a comprehensive Traffic Management Plan (TMP) would be implemented throughout the period to ensure smooth traffic flow and the safety of road users. "Among the measures that will be implemented include real-time traffic monitoring, coordination with relevant agencies, scheduled road closures and diversions that will only be carried out during off-peak hours or at night, as well as the provision of a special traffic management team." "The safety of road users, construction workers and nearby communities remains a priority throughout the construction period, while minimising disruption to highway users," he said. -- BERNAMA

NPE 2 uses barrier-free toll system, reducing peak-time congestion

KUALA LUMPUR,JUNE 24 — The New Pantai Expressway Extension Project (NPE 2) will use a barrier-free toll collection system or Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) when fully completed to reduce traffic .... read more

KUCHING, JUNE 24 -- A security guard was jailed for eight months and fined RM50,000 by the Sessions Court here today after pleading guilty to posting offensive comments against the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim via his Facebook account. Judge Iris Awen Jon imposed the sentence on Raden Mohamad Norhakim Raden Ibrahim, 46, and ordered him to be jailed for two months if he failed to pay the fine. According to the charge, the accused is alleged to have made obscene communication with the intention of hurting others through a post on Facebook on Feb 12 last year. The post was later seen by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) Tower 1, Cyberjaya, Selangor at 8.44pm on the same date. He was charged under Section 233(1) (a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 which provides for a maximum fine of RM500,000 or imprisonment for up to two years or both. The judge said the offence committed by the accused could invite various negative reactions among the public, especially since the post was made in the comments section of a leading newspaper and involved His Majesty. "The public interest is the court's primary consideration in this case. You need to apologise to all Malaysians and the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. There is no point in apologising to me, the damage has already been done," he said. The prosecution was conducted by MCMC Prosecuting Officer Nazrul Nizam Mohd Zameri while the accused was not represented by a lawyer. -- BERNAMA

Security guard jailed for eight months, fined RM50,000 for making offensive comments about the Agong

KUCHING, JUNE 24 — A security guard was jailed for eight months and fined RM50,000 by the Sessions Court here today after pleading guilty to posting offensive comments against the .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 24 -- The Sultan of Kedah Al Aminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah agreed to pay a visit to the Sultan Abdul Samad Building (BSAS) on Jalan Raja, here today. His Majesty arrived at approximately 10.30am at the BSAS Porte Cochere, where he was welcomed by Khazanah Nasional Managing Director Datuk Amirul Feisal Wan Zahir. Also welcoming His Majesty's arrival were Khazanah Nasional's Chief Corporate Officer and General Legal Advisor Datuk Mohamed Nasri Sallehuddin and Khazanah Nasional's Head of Real Assets Selvendran Katheerayson. His Majesty visited the Confluence Hall , which houses a gallery on the origins of Kuala Lumpur, and heard a briefing from Think City Senior Manager Mariana Isa on the contents of the gallery. The Sultan of Kedah also spent time visiting the Visionary Hall , which features a model of the capital's development and multimedia displays related to Kuala Lumpur, before exploring the Porte Cochere balcony. His Majesty then visited the School of Hard Knocks run by Royal Selangor, and agreed to participate in a light luncheon before departing for home at approximately 1.15pm. Amirul Feisal said the Sultan of Kedah's departure was greatly appreciated and gave great significance to Khazanah Nasional's efforts to conserve BSAS, which was not just focused on the physical building but also aimed to revive the country's history, including the history of Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and the development of Malaysia. "The departure of the Sultan of Kedah here gives great appreciation to our efforts to preserve the country's history, which is meaningful not only to the community but also to the royal institution," he said. He said since it opened to the public on Feb 2, BSAS has received approximately 200,000 visitors. On Jan 31, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim consented to officiate the BSAS Phase 1 Conservation Completion Ceremony after 11 months of conservation and preservation work under the Khazanah Heritage Fund programme. BSAS, originally known as the Secretariat Building, was once the core of the country's administration, and witnessed the lowering of the Union Jack Flag and the raising of the Federation of Malaya Flag for the first time in 1957. -- BERNAMA

Sultan of Kedah visits Sultan Abdul Samad Building

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 24 — The Sultan of Kedah Al Aminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah agreed to pay a visit to the Sultan Abdul Samad Building (BSAS) on Jalan .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 24 -- The Child Protection Code (CPC) sets out a safe, practical and responsible age verification mechanism to ensure that only eligible users are allowed to access social media platforms. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the CPC together with the Risk Reduction Code (RMC) were published by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) on May 22, and came into effect on June 1 under the Online Safety Act 2025 [Act 866]. He said both codes aim to create a safer online environment, particularly to protect children from online risks and harm. "Under the CPC, licensed service providers offering social media services are required to implement an age verification mechanism, rather than identity verification, to ensure compliance with the minimum age limit set. "Users who have reached the age of 16 are allowed to register and have social media accounts, while individuals under that age are not allowed to open or have social media accounts until they reach the specified age," he said during a question and answer session at the Dewan Rakyat, today. He was answering Syahredzan Johan's (PH-Bangi) original question regarding the purpose of implementing age verification for social media accounts, as well as measures to ensure access to personal data is restricted and deleted after use. Fahmi said the implementation of the mechanism should be done safely, practically and respectful of user privacy, in line with the requirements set out under the CPC. Social media service providers are also required to ensure that the process complies with laws relating to personal data protection, including the principles of data minimization, and purpose limitation by limiting data collection to information necessary for age verification purposes and disposing of it upon completion. He said the age verification mechanism should be implemented based on official documents issued by the Malaysian Government such as MyKad, passport, birth certificate or other documents recognised by the government. "To ensure that the age verification mechanism is not manipulated, age verification must be supported by official government records and not just self-declaration." "The CPC also allows the use of other documents recognised by the Malaysian Government, including equivalent records issued by competent authorities in other jurisdictions so that access to online protection can be provided equitably to all children regardless of their documentation status," he said. Fahmi said the implementation of age verification does not permanently prevent children from using social media, but rather postpones account ownership until they reach the age of 16, and have a more appropriate level of maturity to use the platform safely and responsibly. He said the approach known as the "Wait 16" initiative was introduced to protect children and families from online risks and harm. -- BERNAMA

Parliament: CPC Code provides practical, safe age verification mechanism for social media – Fahmi

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 24 — The Child Protection Code (CPC) sets out a safe, practical and responsible age verification mechanism to ensure that only eligible users are allowed to access .... read more

KUCHING, June 24 -- The Ministry of Finance (MOF) is taking an open approach to considering any proposals to ensure that the BUDI MADANI Diesel (BUDI Diesel) programme runs smoothly. Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said any decision regarding the programme, including the issue of increasing quotas, would be made based on actual usage data. “When we first started implementing the RON95 subsidy, some said the quota was insufficient. But now, after several months of implementation, we can see data from January to May this year shows that only 0.76 per cent used more than 200 litres. “So, let the system run first and see whether it is effective or not. If there are gaps in the system, the government has no problem reviewing it (decision),” he told a media conference after attending the media briefing on the Implementation of Targeted Diesel Subsidy Reforms here today. Also present was Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi. Amir Hamzah said previous experience with targeted subsidy programmes, including those for the e-hailing sector, showed that the government is always prepared to make adjustments based on actual usage data. “When we started implementing the targeted subsidy programme for e-hailing, we received feedback that the quote given was insufficient. So, we reviewed the usage data recorded by e-hailing companies. If someone has high fuel consumption, then their quota will be increased. “That is why e-hailing drivers now have two quota levels: 600 litres and 800 litres, and adjustments are made based on data,” he added. -- BERNAMA  

Gov’t Open To Proposals To Improve BUDI Diesel Programme – Amir Hamzah

KUCHING, June 24 — The Ministry of Finance (MOF) is taking an open approach to considering any proposals to ensure that the BUDI MADANI Diesel (BUDI Diesel) programme runs smoothly. .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 24 – Malaysia has achieved another milestone in the agricultural sector with the successful entry of fresh Malaysian pineapples into the New Zealand market, marking a significant step in expanding the country's agricultural exports. Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Mohamad Sabu, officiated the Malaysian Fresh Pineapple Export Container Send-Off Ceremony to New Zealand at the Farmers' Organisation Authority (LPP) headquarters in Kuala Lumpur. Mohamad said the achievement reflects growing international confidence in the quality and safety of Malaysian agricultural produce, particularly pineapples, which have gained recognition in global markets. “Malaysia produces more than 530,000 metric tonnes of pineapples annually, including premium varieties such as MD2, Josapine and N36, which possess the quality and standards required to compete internationally,” he said. He expressed appreciation to the Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board (LPNM), the Department of Agriculture, the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services (MAQIS), exporters and industry players for their collective efforts in ensuring Malaysian pineapples meet New Zealand's stringent import requirements. “This success is the result of close cooperation among government agencies and industry stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to ensure compliance with international standards,” he added. According to Mohamad, initial demand from New Zealand is estimated at one container per month, generating an annual export value of approximately RM4.32 million. He said the new market access would create additional opportunities for local pineapple growers and exporters while strengthening the country's pineapple industry towards achieving the national export target of RM2 billion by 2027. “This is only the beginning. We hope to penetrate more premium international markets in the future and further enhance Malaysia's reputation as a producer and exporter of high-quality pineapples,” he said. Mohamad added that the government remains committed to supporting the growth of the agricultural sector and expanding export opportunities to benefit farmers, entrepreneurs and the national economy. The latest export development is expected to contribute positively to Malaysia's agricultural trade performance while strengthening the country's position in the global fresh fruit market. -- MINUTESMY

Malaysian Fresh Pineapples Enter New Zealand Market, Boosting Export Prospects

KUALA LUMPUR, June 24 – Malaysia has achieved another milestone in the agricultural sector with the successful entry of fresh Malaysian pineapples into the New Zealand market, marking a significant .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 24 -- Deputy Minister of Human Resources, R. Ramanan, reaffirmed the MADANI Government's commitment to strengthening the role of trade unions as strategic partners in safeguarding workers' welfare and promoting inclusive economic growth. Speaking at the Peninsular Malaysia-level 2026 Trade Union Affairs Programme (PHEKS) Grant Presentation Ceremony, attended by more than 1,500 trade union members from across Peninsular Malaysia, Ramanan announced the distribution of RM2.88 million in grants to 315 trade unions nationwide. He said the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) remains committed to empowering trade unions to ensure workers' rights are respected, welfare is protected, and the benefits of economic development are shared fairly among all Malaysians. “For 2026, a total of RM6.1 million has been allocated for the implementation of PHEKS nationwide. The programme will support training, education, research, digitalisation, governance empowerment, outreach initiatives, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities,” he said. Ramanan emphasised that trade unions play a much broader role than merely serving as a platform for workers to voice grievances. “Trade unions are the voice of workers, an important mechanism for checks and balances, and a key partner in national development,” he said. Addressing the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the future of work, he stressed the importance of equipping Malaysian workers with new skills to remain competitive in a rapidly changing employment landscape. He noted that KESUMA has introduced various training initiatives, including the AI MyMahir Roadshow, aimed at helping Malaysians acquire future-ready digital and technological skills. “When workers are protected, the economy grows. When workers are respected, the nation becomes more prosperous. And when workers succeed, Malaysia will continue to move forward,” he added. -- MINUTESMY

Strong Workers, Prosperous Nation: Datuk Ramanan Reaffirms Government’s Commitment to Labour Welfare

KUALA LUMPUR, June 24 — Minister of Human Resources, R. Ramanan, reaffirmed the MADANI Government’s commitment to strengthening the role of trade unions as strategic partners in safeguarding workers’ welfare .... read more

Latest News

Fire Dept Launches SAR For Missing Hiker In Gua Musang

Join PDRM Fun Run 2026 At Dataran Merdeka This November

PM Anwar Flags Off Malaysia Sarong Music Run 2026

Anthony Loke Offers To Resign As Transport Minister

Malaysia Launches Cyber Force Nucleus Team to Strengthen Digital Defence