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Online Fraud Losses In Perak Hit RM125 Million, Rising Cases Among Students Raise Alarm

IPOH, April 16 — A total of 4,848 online fraud cases involving losses amounting to RM124.99 million were recorded in Perak last year, with a worrying rise in cases among .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR -- Human Resources Development Corporation Berhad (HRD Corp) has appointed Datuk Rusli Jaafar as its new chairman effective April 1. HRD Corp in a statement today informed that Rusli previously served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Cooperative Commission (SKM) from 2022 to 2025 after starting service with the commission, which was previously known as the Malaysian Cooperative Development Department, in 1993. With over 32 years of extensive experience in the public service sector, his leadership has led to institutional empowerment, driven organizational transformation and expanded the impact of socio-economic development. The holder of a Bachelor of Business Administration (Hons) degree from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) plays an important role in strengthening the financial and economic sectors as strategic drivers of inclusive and sustainable national development. "Under his leadership, SKM has recorded encouraging development. As of December 2025, the total assets of the cooperative movement in Malaysia managed by SKM are estimated to reach RM186 billion with total shares and fees exceeding RM18 billion, thus reflecting the significant role of the cooperative sector in the country's socio-economic development." "As of 2025, the total financing arrears under the SKM Revolving Capital Fund (TMP-SKM) have been successfully reduced to RM11.33 million from RM20.67 million previously," the statement said. The statement informed that in 2024, for the first time, the registration of cooperatives under SKM will exceed 1,000 cooperatives per year compared to an average of around 600 cooperatives per year before, as a result of the implementation of more aggressive awareness and encouragement programs among the community. In addition, SKM successfully obtained Clean Audit Certificate recognition for the financial statements for the years ending 31 Dec 2022, 2023 and 2024. "His contributions have also been recognised through several Outstanding Service Awards and he was awarded the Panglima Gemilang Darjah Kinabalu in 2024." "Under his leadership, SKM also received recognition when it was awarded the Special Organisational Award at the 2024 Malaysia Franchise Awards Night Ceremony," the statement said. HRD Corp said Rusli's appointment reflects the agency's commitment to continue strengthening its mandate in leading skills development, workforce training and human capital sustainability in line with national priorities as well as the ever-evolving needs of employers and the workforce.

DATUK RUSLI JAAFAR APPOINTED NEW CHAIRMAN OF HRD CORP

KUALA LUMPUR — Human Resources Development Corporation Berhad (HRD Corp) has appointed Datuk Rusli Jaafar as its new chairman effective April 1. HRD Corp in a statement today informed that .... read more

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has instructed Chief Secretary to the Government (KSN) Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar to monitor the implementation of the Work From Home (BDR) policy for the Federal public sector. MADANI Government spokesman Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the matter was decided at a Cabinet meeting today, including instructions for the whereabouts of civil servants to be confirmed throughout the BDR implementation period. "However, the delivery of government services to the people, especially over-the-counter transactions, continues to operate as usual," he said at a briefing on the global energy crisis and post-Cabinet meeting press conference here today. Fahmi, who is also the Communications Minister, said the government also reiterated its recommendation to the private sector to consider implementing BDR for appropriate functions or divisions. The implementation of the BDR policy for the Federal civil service sector nationwide begins today, involving approximately 200,000 civil servants as a preparedness measure to face the global energy crisis following the conflict in West Asia. The policy covers Federal civil servants in Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur, as well as all state capitals, especially those who live more than eight kilometres from their workplace. However, the implementation does not apply to personnel in the security and defense, health and education sectors. The implementation of BDR is determined by state and weekly holiday (KHM). For states with HKM on Sunday, BDR is implemented from Tuesday to Thursday, while for states with HKM on Friday, BDR is implemented from Monday to Wednesday. -- BERNAMA

PM ANWAR DIRECTS KSN TO MONITOR BDR IMPLEMENTATION, INCLUDING THE PRESENCE OF CIVIL SERVANTS – YB DATUK FAHMI

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has instructed Chief Secretary to the Government (KSN) Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar to monitor the implementation of the Work From Home .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, April 16 — Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today announced an additional RM75 million in government cash assistance for diesel users, aimed at easing the burden of rising fuel costs and ensuring continued stability in the agricultural sector. Zahid said the government has increased the Field Ploughing Incentive (IPKP) from RM160 to RM300 per hectare per season, benefiting approximately 200,000 farmers nationwide, with an additional allocation of about RM40 million. He added that the BUDI Agri-Commodity Interim Assistance has also been raised from RM300 to RM400 for April, benefiting more than 200,000 farmers and smallholders, involving an extra RM20 million in monthly funding. In addition, the Individual BUDI Diesel Interim Assistance has been increased from RM300 to RM400 for April, providing support to over 150,000 diesel vehicle owners in Peninsular Malaysia, with an additional RM15 million allocated monthly. To further ease access, Zahid announced that the government will relax the special permit requirement for diesel purchases exceeding 20 litres for non-vehicle usage. “In total, the government will cover RM7 billion in fuel assistance by April 2026 to help Malaysians cope with the pressures of the global energy crisis,” he said. Zahid emphasised that these measures are crucial to ensuring agricultural operations continue smoothly, production costs remain controlled, and the nation’s food supply stays secure. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Credit: FB Zahid Hamidi

DATUK SERI DR. ZAHID HAMIDI ANNOUNCES RM75 MILLION ADDITIONAL DIESEL AID TO SUPPORT FARMERS AND CONSUMERS

KUALA LUMPUR, April 16 — Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi yesterday announced an additional RM75 million in government cash assistance for diesel users, aimed at easing the burden of .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, April 16 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim described his recent meeting with Muhammad Kamal Idhamuddin Kamal Arifin, one of the Malaysians previously stranded at Hamriyah Port, as deeply moving yesterday. Kamal was among several crew members of the Ship Berkat Tuah who had been stranded in Dubai, United Arab Emirates for the past seven months before being successfully brought home. “Alhamdulillah, through continuous efforts and close cooperation between Wisma Putra, the Malaysian Embassy in the UAE, and other relevant agencies, he and his fellow crew members were finally able to return safely to the homeland,” Anwar said in a statement. The Prime Minister added that ongoing efforts are being undertaken to ensure that the remains of other affected crew members can be brought back to Malaysia as soon as possible. He emphasised that the welfare and safety of Malaysians abroad remain a core responsibility and priority of the MADANI Government. Anwar also expressed his prayers for Kamal and all the crew members, hoping they will continue to be granted strength and perseverance following their ordeal. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Credit: FB Anwar Ibrahim

PM ANWAR IBRAHIM MEETS RESCUED MALAYSIAN CREW MEMBER, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO CITIZENS’ WELFARE

KUALA LUMPUR, April 16 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim described his recent meeting with Muhammad Kamal Idhamuddin Kamal Arifin, one of the Malaysians previously stranded at Hamriyah Port, as deeply .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, April 16 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening regional energy security during his participation in the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Plus Online Summit on Energy Resilience, held at the invitation of the Government of Japan yesterday. In a statement, Anwar expressed his appreciation to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi for convening the timely meeting, highlighting its importance amid growing global uncertainties. He noted that recent developments in West Asia, particularly those affecting the Strait of Hormuz, underscore the critical need for a stable energy supply to ensure economic resilience and safeguard the wellbeing of the people. “Malaysia remains committed to strengthening regional cooperation through AZEC to ensure a stable, sufficient and resilient energy supply,” he said. As an energy producer, including liquefied natural gas (LNG), Anwar stressed that Malaysia will continue to play a constructive role in supporting regional energy security. He added that the country is also focused on diversifying its energy sources, including expanding renewable energy, while reinforcing its energy systems in line with national development priorities. The Prime Minister emphasised that collaborative regional efforts remain key to navigating evolving energy challenges and ensuring long-term sustainability. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Credit: FB Anwar Ibrahim

PM ANWAR IBRAHIM REAFFIRMS MALAYSIA’S COMMITMENT TO ENERGY SECURITY AT AZEC SUMMIT

KUALA LUMPUR, April 16 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening regional energy security during his participation in the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Plus Online Summit .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, April 16 — Human Resources Minister Minister Ramanan has extended his congratulations to Puan Biruntha Mooruthi on her appointment as Chief Executive Officer of Talent Corporation Malaysia Berhad (Talent Corp), effective yesterday, describing it as a significant step toward strengthening Malaysia’s talent development agenda. Ramanan said the appointment reflects the government’s commitment to building a more dynamic and focused talent strategy that aligns closely with current industry demands. “With over 20 years of leadership experience across government, academia and industry, I am confident that Madam Biruntha will lead Talent Corp to greater heights and deliver impactful outcomes,” he said in a statement. He highlighted her strong leadership track record in driving national initiatives, advancing innovation agendas, and bridging the gap between research and market needs — qualities he noted are crucial in today’s increasingly challenging economic landscape. Ramanan also commended Biruntha’s contributions in mentoring thousands of entrepreneurs and accelerating technology commercialization, underscoring her dedication to strengthening Malaysia’s talent and innovation ecosystem. “I believe that under her leadership, Talent Corp will continue to play a strategic role as a key think tank in enhancing workforce readiness, expanding quality job opportunities, and ensuring that national talent policies contribute meaningfully to sustainable economic growth,” he added. At the same time, Ramanan expressed his appreciation to former CEO Mr. Edward Ling for his service and contributions during his tenure at Talent Corp. He concluded by wishing Biruntha continued success in carrying out her new responsibilities for the betterment of the nation. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Credit: FB Ramanan Ramakrishnan

RAMANAN WELCOMES APPOINTMENT OF BIRUNTHA MOORUTHI AS TALENT CORP CEO

KUALA LUMPUR, April 16 — Human Resources Minister Minister Ramanan has extended his congratulations to Puan Biruntha Mooruthi on her appointment as Chief Executive Officer of Talent Corporation Malaysia Berhad .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR: National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang and Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo today extended their greetings on Vishu Day to the entire Malayalee community in Malaysia. In a Facebook post, Aaron said that every community plays an important role in building a peaceful, stable and harmonious country, while calling for the spirit of neighbourliness, which has been at the core of Malaysian society since ancient times, to be revived. "In an increasingly fast-paced and individualistic world, the values ​​of greeting neighbors, caring for each other, sharing sustenance and celebrating festivals together regardless of background, need to be re-empowered." "Neighborhood spirit is a social bulwark that can prevent division, bridge the gap between communities, and instill a genuine sense of belonging," he said. Aaron said the Vishu festival marks the beginning of a new year in the Malayalam calendar, but also carries a symbol of hope, well-being and better beginnings. "In the cultural diversity we have, every festival like Vishu becomes a bridge that connects us as one big Malaysian family," said Aaron. Gobind, on the other hand, hopes that the Malayalee community will be blessed with a new chapter filled with opportunities, new hopes, as well as joy, love, and prosperity. "To all those celebrating Vishu, congratulations on this auspicious day," he said.

CABINET MINISTER DELIVERS VISHU DAY SPEECH, CALLS FOR KEEPING NEIGHBOURHOOD SPIRIT ALIVE

KUALA LUMPUR: National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang and Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo today extended their greetings on Vishu Day to the entire Malayalee community in Malaysia. In .... read more

KUALA TERENGGANU -- The heartfelt gesture of two siblings giving their Hari Raya money to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday moved the national leader, who reciprocated with a gift of his own today. Aesha Khadeeja Anuar, 10, said she and her younger brother, Uwais AlQorni, 8, never expected their spontaneous gesture of giving their Hari Raya money to the Prime Minister as he was about to board a plane at Sultan Mahmud Airport in Kuala Nerus last night, would be returned today, leaving them with a particularly special memory. “…my brother, mother (Liza Fazilah Abdul Hamid, 49) and I were on our way home after coming back from Quran lessons. When we reached a traffic light, we saw a police escort with the Prime Minister’s convoy heading towards Kuala Nerus, so I asked my mother to follow them until we reached the airport. “When we saw the Prime Minister at the airport, we quickly took out our school allowance and gave it to him. I wanted to give him Hari Raya money because it’s Syawal. I gave RM5 and my brother gave RM2,” she said after receiving donations and Hari Raya money from Anwar at their home here today. The Hari Raya money and tablets donated by Anwar were handed over by the director of the Terengganu Federal Development Department, Implementation Coordination Unit of the Prime Minister’s Department (ICU JPM), Datuk Abdul Kahar Abdul Latif. Aesha Khadeeja said she and her brother hope to visit Anwar at his Putrajaya office one day and bring him keropok lekor as a gift, adding that the Prime Minister has always been close to her heart, as he shares the same name as her father, Anuar Rashid. Earlier, Anwar shared a one‑minute 23‑second video on his Facebook page showing Aesha Khadeeja and Uwais AlQorni handing him Hari Raya money packets from outside the airport fence. In the caption, he said he was deeply moved by the children’s sincerity, calling it a humble and touching gesture. “I see this as a symbol of unity among the people, regardless of age, supporting one another as we go through the crisis we are in now. Seeing these faces, I feel a deep sense of tenderness and affection; it is our responsibility to ensure every Malaysian child is raised with love, good guidance and equal opportunities. “May Uwais and Aesha grow up to be knowledgeable, well‑mannered and bring good to their family and to the nation,” he said. Yesterday, Anwar made a one‑day visit to Terengganu, attending several events, including the launch of the National Quran Recitation and Memorisation Ceremony at the Dewan Arena Indoor Stadium in the State Sports Complex, Gong Badak, Kuala Nerus. -- BERNAMA

SIBLINGS’ HARI RAYA GIFT MOVES PRIME MINISTER TO RETURN KINDNESS

KUALA TERENGGANU — The heartfelt gesture of two siblings giving their Hari Raya money to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday moved the national leader, who reciprocated with a .... read more

KUCHING, April 15 — Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi continued his official agenda yesterday with a courtesy visit to the Premier of Sarawak, Abang Johari Openg, at Kompleks Satria Pertiwi. During the meeting, Zahid expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage in constructive discussions covering a range of issues, particularly those related to development initiatives and the welfare of the people in Sarawak. “Alhamdulillah, we were able to exchange views on key matters that will further enhance development and improve the well-being of the rakyat, especially in Sarawak,” he said. Zahid also took the opportunity to formally submit an official note regarding the implementation of the Rural Water Supply Project (BALB) on behalf of the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW), underscoring the government’s continued commitment to improving essential infrastructure in rural areas. He emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation between the federal and Sarawak state governments to ensure that development efforts are effectively implemented for the benefit of the people. “Insya-Allah, this strong relationship will continue to be reinforced and bring meaningful benefits to the rakyat,” he added. The visit reflects ongoing collaboration between federal leadership and the Sarawak state administration in advancing inclusive and sustainable development across the region. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Credit: FB Zahid Hamidi

COURTESY CALL TO SARAWAK PREMIER STRENGTHENS FOCUS ON DEVELOPMENT AND PEOPLE’S WELFARE – DATUK SERI DR. ZAHID HAMIDI

KUCHING, April 15 — Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi continued his official agenda yesterday with a courtesy visit to the Premier of Sarawak, Abang Johari Openg, at Kompleks Satria .... read more