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KUALA LUMPUR, June 20 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has safely returned to Malaysia from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, early this morning following his official visit to the Central Asian nation. In a brief statement shared on social media, Anwar expressed gratitude for his safe return and announced that he would immediately resume his official responsibilities in Penang. “Alhamdulillah, I have safely arrived in my homeland early this morning from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. Today, I resume my duty in Penang for some official events, God willing,” he said. The Prime Minister’s visit to Turkmenistan was aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and exploring new opportunities for cooperation in strategic sectors between the two countries. Anwar is scheduled to attend several official programmes in Penang as part of his ongoing duties under the Malaysia MADANI agenda.   -- MINUTESMY  -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM 

PM Anwar Returns Safely from Turkmenistan, Resumes Official Duties in Penang

KUALA LUMPUR, June 20 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has safely returned to Malaysia from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, early this morning following his official visit to the Central Asian .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, June 20 (Bernama) -- Malaysia recorded a 14.44 per cent increase in horseshoe crab landings over a three-year period, reflecting the continued resilience of its coastal ecosystems in supporting the survival of this ancient and high-value marine species. The Department of Fisheries Malaysia (DOF) said the total landings of horseshoe crabs increased from 232.80 tonnes in 2023 to 266.42 tonnes in 2025, while their wholesale market value climbed 9.32 per cent to RM2.68 million, compared with RM2.45 million over the same period. Director-General of Fisheries Datuk Adnan Hussain said horseshoe crabs are a treasure trove of the country’s marine biodiversity, with high strategic value not only to coastal ecosystems but also to the fields of bioscience and biomedicine. “The increase in horseshoe crab landings shows that the country’s coastal ecosystems are still capable of supporting the survival of the species. “However, pressure on natural habitats from development, pollution and overexploitation requires more integrated and continuous conservation action,” he said in a statement in conjunction with World Horseshoe Crab Day 2026, here today. The DOF said that although horseshoe crabs account for only around 0.019 per cent of total capture fisheries landings in the country, the species carries premium value and has the potential to generate additional income for coastal fishing communities. Known as a “living fossil”, the horseshoe crab has existed on Earth for more than 400 million years and holds significant value in biomedicine through its blue blood, which contains amebocyte lysate, an essential component used in the safety testing of vaccines and medicines to detect bacterial contamination. According to the DOF, Malaysia plays an important role in the conservation of the species as it is home to three of the world’s four horseshoe crab species, namely Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda, Tachypleus gigas and Tachypleus tridentatus. The department said that despite positive trends in landing data, the horseshoe crab population still faces multiple threats, including habitat destruction from coastal development, plastic waste pollution and uncontrolled egg harvesting activities. In this regard, the DOF said it will continue to strengthen conservation efforts through enforcement, scientific research, juvenile release programmes and the gazetting of breeding areas as protected zones. The department also urged the community to work together to preserve coastal ecosystems and mangrove forests, as efforts to protect horseshoe crabs are not only important for maintaining the balance of marine biodiversity but also reflect the country’s commitment to conserving natural resources for future generations. -- BERNAMA

Malaysia Sees 14.44 Pct Increase In Horseshoe Crab Landings

PUTRAJAYA, June 20 — Malaysia recorded a 14.44 per cent increase in horseshoe crab landings over a three-year period, reflecting the continued resilience of its coastal ecosystems in supporting the .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 20 -- Algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI) are not a threat to journalism but a new challenge that media organisations must understand to ensure credible news continues to reach the public. Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) Social Communication lecturer and Media and Information Psychological Warfare analyst, Dr Ahmad Sauffiyan Abu Hasan said media organisations should embrace the technology to expand the reach of accurate reporting and foster more positive public perceptions. “The challenge for the media today is understanding how algorithms work and how they can help widen the dissemination of news. “If credible news does not reach the public, that space will be filled by information that may not be accurate,” he said when appearing as a guest on Bernama TV’s Ruang Bicara programme titled ‘Berita sebagai Kompas Persepsi’ at Wisma Bernama last night. He said algorithms play a significant role in determining the content users receive based on their interactions on digital platforms. As such, media organisations need to strengthen their content strategies by incorporating visual elements, short videos and storytelling techniques that align with current algorithm trends. “We can no longer simply publish news on a website and leave it there. Media organisations need to distribute content more actively on social media using visuals and other tools so algorithms can deliver it to the intended audience,” he said. On the use of AI in journalism, Ahmad Sauffiyan said the technology could help streamline newsroom processes and improve efficiency. However, he cautioned against overreliance on AI, stressing that journalists must continue to exercise their own judgement. “AI can help, but we cannot hand everything over to technology. Decisions and assessments must still come from journalists,” he said. He also urged media organisations to uphold the principles of ethical journalism by ensuring information is fact-based, balanced and free from bias in order to maintain public trust. -- BERNAMA

Understanding Algorithms Key To Delivering Credible News – Expert

KUALA LUMPUR, June 20 — Algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI) are not a threat to journalism but a new challenge that media organisations must understand to ensure credible news continues .... read more

SHAH ALAM, JUNE 20 -- The Selangor State Government continues to expand access to affordable healthcare through a network of hospitals under Selgate Healthcare (Selgate) to help the people cope with rising medical costs and insurance premiums. Selangor Public Health and Environment Exco, Jamaliah Jamaluddin said that Selgate Specialist Hospital Rawang, which was launched last May, is now involved in the Hospital Services Outsourcing Program (HSOP), which allows certain patients to be referred to private hospitals for treatment. He said the move would not only provide patients with faster access to treatment, but also help reduce pressure and congestion at public health facilities. "The Selangor State Government is strengthening collaboration between Selgate with insurance companies, Takaful, third party administrators (TPA) and the corporate sector to ensure that the treatment price structure remains affordable, especially for the B40 and M40 groups," he told Bernama. Jamaliah said that Iltizam Selangor Sihat (ISS) benefit holders can also obtain treatment for illnesses and services covered under the programme through the Selgate ecosystem. He said the integration between Selcare Management Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the state government, and the SELangkah application allows the registration process, verification of eligibility and management of health benefits to be carried out more efficiently. "The state government's goal is to ensure that the people not only receive health assistance, but can access these benefits easily when they need treatment," he said. Meanwhile, the head of the Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Prof Dr Mohd Arshil Moideen described the affordable private hospital model introduced by Selgate as an intervention measure that has the potential to bridge the gap in people's ability to obtain treatment as medical costs and insurance premiums continue to rise. He said the initiative could also be a short-term solution to help reduce congestion at government hospitals, but more formal integration between the public and private sectors needed to be strengthened to ensure more comprehensive benefits. "Through the targeted service purchasing method by the Ministry of Health (MOH), public funds can be used to finance certain procedures for B40 patients in hospitals such as Selgate, thus helping to reduce congestion in government hospitals more effectively," he said. Mohd Arshil said that the sustainability of the affordable private hospital model in the long term depends on diversifying income sources to face the challenges of global medical inflation and currency weakness. He also suggested the use of high-quality generic medicines to control treatment costs and reduce dependence on imported medicines and equipment. "As a government-linked company (GLC) entity, Selgate can leverage its scale to manage its own pharmacy chain and strengthen its corporate primary healthcare package which is more preventative," he said. Last May, the Menteri Besar of Selangor, Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, said the official opening of Selgate Specialist Hospital Rawang was able to accommodate the demand for specialist services in the northern corridor of Selangor, which is currently recording rapid population growth. He said the hospital, with a capacity of 224 beds, would not just meet the needs of private healthcare, but would also be part of the state government's efforts to expand health benefits to the people. -- BERNAMA

Selangor expands access to affordable healthcare through Selgate

SHAH ALAM, JUNE 20 — The Selangor State Government continues to expand access to affordable healthcare through a network of hospitals under Selgate Healthcare (Selgate) to help the people cope .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 20 -- The Second Meeting of the Fifth Term of the 15th Parliament, which begins this Monday, will focus on the tabling of several major bills, including the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 to limit the Prime Minister's term of office to 10 years, which will be re-tabled. The conference, which will last until July 16, is also scheduled to re-table the Constitution (Amendment) Bill (No. 2) 2026 which aims to separate the roles of the Attorney General and the Public Prosecutor. Both bills were previously tabled at the First Meeting of the Fifth Term of the 15th Parliament. However, the bill relating to the Prime Minister's term limits did not obtain the support of two-thirds of the Dewan Rakyat members, while the bill on the role of the Attorney General and Public Prosecutor has been referred to the Dewan Rakyat Special Select Committee, to provide space for all relevant parties to refine and examine it. Also of interest is the Cyber ​​Crime Bill 2026, in addition to the Road Transport Act (Amendment) Bill 1987 which is scheduled to be tabled on the first day of the session and will be debated the following day. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the proposed amendments, which include 11 scopes of amendments and 42 clauses, focus on action against illegal racing activities which are still a serious threat to the safety of road users. "The amendment also includes stricter measures to combat tonto activities and strengthen enforcement aspects in an effort to improve road safety and ensure more effective compliance with the law," he said recently. Apart from that, the 16-day conference is also expected to focus on discussions on various issues, particularly the impact of the global energy supply crisis on Malaysia following the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which has affected the international energy supply chain. Meanwhile, the Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat, Tan Sri Johari Abdul, reminded all Members of Parliament to carry out their responsibilities as representatives of the people and carry out the functions of the Dewan Rakyat through orderly, mature debates based on the Standing Orders, despite the current dynamic political situation. He said that both government and opposition MPs must carry out their respective roles, focus on issues of interest to the people and the country, as well as ensure a high quality of debate to strengthen quality democracy and help produce better policies. "The House of Representatives is the country's highest legislative institution...every debate should be based on facts, data and constructive proposals, rather than being influenced by sentiment or polemics that do not bring solutions." "The people expect the representatives they elect to discuss issues of cost of living, education, health, economy, job opportunities and community well-being seriously and responsibly," he told Bernama. Commenting on the Johor State Election (PRN) which was held simultaneously with the Dewan Rakyat sitting, Johari also reminded all Members of Parliament to give a high commitment to attending Parliament, in addition to not abusing the sitting session for politics. He said that although Members of Parliament have various political commitments outside the Dewan Rakyat, their presence and participation in sittings is a major responsibility that cannot be ignored. "I believe every Member of Parliament understands the responsibility and trust given by the people. The Dewan Rakyat is a place to discuss policies, laws and issues of national interest." "Therefore, I hope that all Honorable Members can give due commitment to the proceedings of the session and take advantage of this session to express their views responsibly and comply with the Rules of Procedure," he said. In addition to the Dewan Rakyat session, the Dewan Negara will also begin a 10-day session from July 20 to August 4. -- BERNAMA

Second session of the Dewan Rakyat begins Monday, several important bills in focus

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 20 — The Second Meeting of the Fifth Term of the 15th Parliament, which begins this Monday, will focus on the tabling of several major bills, including .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, JUNE 20 -- The implementation of e-Invoice has successfully strengthened tax compliance with 52,540 taxpayers reporting a total income of RM4.07 billion, according to the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRB). The IRB in a statement today informed that since the implementation of e-Invoices began on 1 August 2024, more than 230,000 taxpayers have submitted e-Invoices, which involves the issuance of 1.505 billion e-Invoices in total. "This development demonstrates the support and willingness of taxpayers to strengthen digitalization in business operations," the statement said. In line with the principle of transparency in the country's taxation system, the IRB has informed all taxpayers that they must issue e-Invoices for every transaction involving the sale of goods or provision of services exceeding RM10,000 starting 1 Jan 2026. For this purpose, the buyer needs to submit their personal identification number or tax identification number (TIN) information to the seller, to enable the e-Invoice to be issued accurately. According to a statement by the IRB, it has developed an analytical model to identify anomalies, suspicious transactions and unusual behavior patterns for enforcement purposes. "This initiative has proven effective where the IRB has successfully implemented more effective risk assessments, thus increasing the level of voluntary tax compliance and contributing to increased national revenue collection," the statement said. Based on the analysis, the IRB detected taxpayers who showed a pattern of active financial transactions but did not match existing tax records, including high-value purchase transactions exceeding RM100,000, vehicle and asset purchases, as well as active online transaction activities without proper income reporting records. IRB remains committed to intensifying the "nudging" approach and compliance based on e-Invoice data to increase awareness and provide taxpayers with the opportunity to make corrections and submit tax information voluntarily before any further action is taken. "Through this approach, a total of 52,540 taxpayers have come forward to submit Income Tax Return Forms (BNCP) for income from previous assessment years, with a total income of RM4.07 billion and tax payable amounting to RM1.009 billion," according to a statement from the IRB. The IRB informed that the results of continuous monitoring carried out found that there are still taxpayers who do not comply with the requirements for implementing e-Invoices as stipulated. Among the mistakes made by taxpayers identified is the inconsistent issuance of e-Invoices, including situations where e-Invoices are only issued for some transactions and fail to issue e-Invoices for subsequent transactions. Other mistakes made were sending consolidated e-Invoices after the allowed time period and failure to issue e-Invoices for sales transactions of goods or provision of services exceeding RM10,000 starting 1 Jan 2026. In this regard, the IRB advises all taxpayers to ensure that the issuance of e-Invoices is fully implemented in accordance with the regulations in force. For taxpayers who have not yet issued e-Invoices for previous transactions, voluntary corrective actions must be implemented immediately. "Enforcement and legal action will be taken to ensure a high level of compliance and to guarantee that fairness in the country's taxation system is always maintained," the statement said. -- BERNAMA

e-Invoice strengthens tax compliance: 52,540 taxpayers come forward to report income of RM4.07 billion

PUTRAJAYA, JUNE 20 — The implementation of e-Invoice has successfully strengthened tax compliance with 52,540 taxpayers reporting a total income of RM4.07 billion, according to the Inland Revenue Board of .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 20 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Turkmenistan, highlighting the growing partnership between the two nations in strategic sectors beyond the traditional oil and gas industry. Speaking after attending the Malaysia-Turkmenistan Forum alongside President Serdar Berdimuhamedov before concluding his official visit, Anwar said the forum provided an important platform for industry leaders and business communities from both countries to explore broader and more meaningful avenues of cooperation. He noted that Malaysia and Turkmenistan are now expanding collaboration into key areas such as education, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, and human capital development. “Relations between Malaysia and Turkmenistan have evolved significantly and now extend far beyond the oil and gas sector. Building on decades of trust and friendship, both countries are committed to forging stronger partnerships in strategic and future-oriented industries,” Anwar said. The Prime Minister also highlighted that 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of PETRONAS’ presence in Turkmenistan, describing it as a testament to the success of long-term cooperation based on mutual respect, knowledge-sharing, and technology transfer. According to Anwar, the achievements of PETRONAS in Turkmenistan demonstrate how sustainable partnerships can deliver lasting economic benefits and contribute to the development of both nations. He also reflected on the legacy of renowned Turkmen poet Magtymguly Pyragy, whose writings emphasised unity and shared purpose. “His message that hearts, minds, and souls united by a common purpose can overcome any challenge continues to resonate today and serves as a foundation for the strong relationship between Malaysia and Turkmenistan,” he said. During the forum, Anwar and Berdimuhamedov witnessed the signing of several key agreements aimed at enhancing energy cooperation between the two countries. The agreements included a Framework Agreement between the Government of Turkmenistan and the Government of Malaysia on Long-Term Cooperation for the Development of Turkmenistan’s Hydrocarbon Resources. Also signed was a Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) for Block 19 and Block 20 involving PETRONAS, State Concern Turkmennebit, and State Enterprise Hazarnebit. In addition, both parties concluded a Cooperation Agreement for the implementation of a 2D seismic survey covering offshore blocks along Turkmenistan’s northern coastal region. Anwar expressed confidence that the agreements would usher in a new chapter in Malaysia-Turkmenistan relations and serve as a model of successful South-South cooperation. He said the strengthened partnership demonstrates how countries of the Global South can work together to achieve shared progress, economic growth, and prosperity for their people through mutually beneficial cooperation.    -- MINUTESMY  -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM 

PM Anwar: Malaysia, Turkmenistan Deepen Strategic Cooperation Beyond Oil and Gas

KUALA LUMPUR, June 20 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Turkmenistan, highlighting the growing partnership between the two nations in .... read more

ASHGABAT, June 20 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim witnessed the exchange of several key agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) between Malaysia and Turkmenistan, marking a significant step forward in strengthening strategic cooperation across a range of priority sectors, yesterday. The signing ceremony, held during Anwar’s official visit to Turkmenistan, underscored both nations’ commitment to fostering a more structured, progressive, and mutually beneficial bilateral relationship. Among the documents exchanged were a Memorandum of Understanding between the Academy of Sciences Malaysia and the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan, as well as an MoU between the aviation authorities of both countries aimed at enhancing cooperation in the aviation sector. The two governments also signed an MoU on diplomatic training to strengthen collaboration in capacity-building and the development of diplomatic expertise. In addition, Malaysia and Turkmenistan concluded an Air Services Agreement, paving the way for closer connectivity and greater people-to-people and business exchanges between the two countries. Another notable development was the announcement of an MoU involving Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) and higher education institutions in Turkmenistan, reflecting the growing emphasis on academic cooperation, research, and talent development. The visit also saw the adoption of a Joint Statement by Malaysia and Turkmenistan, reaffirming their shared commitment to expanding cooperation across multiple sectors of mutual interest. Speaking at a joint media conference with Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Anwar said the agreements reflected the determination of both countries to elevate bilateral ties and deliver long-term benefits to their people. “These documents embody our shared aspiration to build a stronger, more organised, and complementary partnership that will continue to serve the strategic interests of both nations,” he said. The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of ensuring that all agreements reached are implemented effectively. “We have reaffirmed our collective commitment to execute every cooperation initiative that has been agreed upon in a disciplined, transparent, and effective manner,” he added. Anwar expressed confidence that the enduring friendship between Malaysia and Turkmenistan would continue to flourish, driven by mutual trust, respect, and a shared vision for future prosperity. He said the strengthened partnership would create new opportunities for collaboration in science, education, diplomacy, transportation, and economic development, further reinforcing the longstanding ties between the two nations.     -- MINUTESMY  -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM 

PM Anwar : Malaysia and Turkmenistan Seal Key Agreements to Strengthen Strategic Bilateral Cooperation

ASHGABAT, June 20 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim witnessed the exchange of several key agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) between Malaysia and Turkmenistan, marking a significant step .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, June 19 -- The Federal Court today struck out the prosecution's notice of appeal against the acquittal of a man on a charge of murdering bullying victim T. Nhaveen nine years ago.  A three-member Federal Court bench led by Datuk Nordin Hassan made the ruling after Deputy Public Prosecutor Allan Suman Pillai informed the court that the notice of appeal could not be served personally on S. Gopinaath, 35, who resides in Penang, as the respondent could not be located. “This is the fifth time the prosecution has attempted to serve the notice of appeal. I seek further directions from the court,” said Allan. Also sitting on the bench were Datuk Seri Vazeer Alam Mydin Meera and Datuk Azimah Omar. The prosecution had appealed against the Court of Appeal's decision on Jan 13, 2025, to acquit Gopinaath of murdering Nhaveen, who was 18 at the time, at a park along Jalan Bunga Raya between 11 pm and midnight on June 9, 2017. Gopinaath was charged in 2021, four years after the incident, while the prosecution's seventh witness was testifying during the trial. The Court of Appeal also ordered four men - J. Ragesuthan and S. Gokulan, both now aged 27, as well as two others who were juveniles at the time of the incident - to enter their defence on a murder charge after allowing the prosecution's appeal against the Penang High Court's decision on Oct 3, 2023, to discharge and acquit them. The appellate court also remitted the case to the Penang High Court for the four men to enter their defence. The four were further ordered to enter their defence on a charge of causing injury to Nhaveen's friend, T. Previin, near the Karpal Singh Learning Centre along Jalan Kaki Bukit, Gelugor, between 11 pm and midnight on June 9, 2017. Case management has been fixed for July 3 at the Penang High Court to set trial dates. Nhaveen sustained serious injuries after being assaulted by a group of youths in an incident along Jalan Kaki Bukit, Gelugor. He was admitted to Penang Hospital but died six days later.  His friend, Previin, was also reportedly assaulted by the same group with motorcycle helmets but managed to escape and seek help. -- BERNAMA

Prosecution’s Appeal In Nhaveen Murder Case Struck Out By Federal Court

PUTRAJAYA, June 19 — The Federal Court today struck out the prosecution’s notice of appeal against the acquittal of a man on a charge of murdering bullying victim T. Nhaveen .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court here has struck down a subpoena requiring Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to appear as a witness in a civil suit totaling RM30 million, filed by 12 individuals against a businessman and his wife. Datuk Vinod Balachandra Sekhar and his wife Winny Yeap Liew Heoh, were sued by plaintiffs consisting of 10 investors and two of Vinod's former employees in 2023. Judicial Commissioner Datuk Muhammad Adam @ Edward Abdullah, in allowing Anwar's application to set aside the subpoena dated Jan 15, ruled that the plaintiff failed to prove that the Prime Minister was a relevant and material witness in the trial. "No useful purpose can be achieved by ordering his presence. Such action would be oppressive and divert the focus of the trial from the real legal issues. They are also relying on photographs, social media posts and public events involving Anwar and Vinod." “At the highest level, such materials can only show the existence of a relationship or acquaintance. They do not prove that the applicant has personal knowledge of the transaction at issue in the pleadings. A relationship does not necessarily make a person a material witness.” "Anyone mentioned in an email, photographed with any party, or referred to in a conversation can be compelled to appear in court. That is not the law. It is important to remember the important principle that subpoenas are not issued automatically without control," he said. "The plaintiff claimed that the applicant (Anwar) needed to be summoned because his name was used to commit fraud, but their own witnesses admitted that there was no evidence that his name was used to obtain investments or money. Therefore, the court allowed the applicant's application to set aside the subpoena," he said. The court also ordered the plaintiff to pay costs of RM20,000 to Anwar. Lawyer Sanjay Mohan represented Anwar, while the plaintiff was represented by lawyer Colin Andrew Pereira. The couple was sued in 2023 for alleged misrepresentation, fraud and breach of contract by 12 plaintiffs. The plaintiffs alleged that Vinod convinced them to make investments directly or through companies he owned, without informing them of his alleged bankruptcy status. They also claimed to have raised concerns via an email dated Sept 30, 2020. Vinod allegedly dismissed the concerns and stated that an individual named "Anwar" would handle the issue, thus giving the impression of a connection to Anwar, who the plaintiff believed was referring to the Prime Minister. -- NAMED

High Court sets aside subpoena, PM Anwar does not have to testify in RM30 million suit

KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court here has struck down a subpoena requiring Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to appear as a witness in a civil suit totaling RM30 million, .... read more