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KUALA LUMPUR, June 10 – Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil yesterday met with representatives of the Malaysian Indian Recording Artist Association (MINDRAA) at Angkasapuri to discuss efforts to strengthen the local music industry and expand support and opportunities for Malaysian artists through radio broadcasting platforms. During the meeting, various views and proposals were raised on the need to increase the exposure of locally produced songs on radio stations, including those that broadcast Tamil, Chinese and English-language music. Fahmi said Malaysia is home to a wealth of talented artists and high-quality musical works that deserve wider recognition and stronger support across the broadcasting landscape. “We need to take a more serious look at ways to ensure local songs are given greater prominence alongside, and where appropriate ahead of, foreign music. This is essential to supporting the growth of our creative industry and creating more opportunities for Malaysian artists,” he said. He noted that various forms of support have already been put in place to assist local musicians and creative practitioners, including grants for arts activists and performance platforms such as RTM programmes that showcase Malaysian talent. Fahmi stressed that the continued growth of the local music industry depends on a strong and collaborative ecosystem encompassing content creation, broadcasting, promotion and sustained support for artists. “The local music industry will only continue to thrive if the entire ecosystem moves together in supporting the creation of quality works, increasing visibility, and nurturing local talent for the long term,” he said. The meeting with MINDRAA reflects the Ministry of Communications’ ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and sustainable creative industry that supports artists from Malaysia’s diverse cultural and linguistic communities. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB FAHMI FADZIL

DATUK FAHMI FADZIL REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO STRENGTHENING LOCAL MUSIC INDUSTRY, CALLS FOR GREATER AIRPLAY OF MALAYSIAN SONGS

KUALA LUMPUR, June 10 – Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil yesterday met with representatives of the Malaysian Indian Recording Artist Association (MINDRAA) at Angkasapuri to discuss efforts to strengthen the .... read more

GENEVA, June 10 — Minister of Human Resources, Datuk Seri R. Ramanan participated in a high-level meeting with representatives of UNI Global Union, reaffirming Malaysia’s commitment to advancing workers’ rights, social justice and international labour cooperation. The meeting brought together UNI Global Union Secretary-General Christy Hoffman, UNI Gaming Head Giedre Lelyte and Senior Policy Adviser Ben Richards. It marked the first formal engagement between the Malaysian Government and UNI Global Union, taking into account the role of the UNI Malaysia Labour Centre (UNI-MLC), led by its President Datuk Mohamed Shafie BP Mammal, as an affiliate of the global labour organisation. The discussions took place on the sidelines of the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC), where UNI-MLC formed one of the largest worker groups within the Malaysian delegation. During the meeting, Ramanan highlighted several key initiatives undertaken by the Malaysian Government to strengthen national labour standards and improve worker protection. These include ongoing labour law reforms, the introduction of the Gig Workers Act 2025 (Act 872), the implementation of the Occupational Safety and Health Master Plan (OSHMP) 2026–2030, and the launch of the 24-Hour Non-Workplace Accident Protection Scheme (LINDUNG 24 JAM), which came into effect on June 1, 2026. Representatives from UNI Global Union and UNI-MLC also emphasised the importance of collective bargaining and freedom of association as fundamental principles in safeguarding workers’ rights and promoting fair labour practices. The meeting further addressed concerns over geopolitical uncertainties in the Middle East and their potential impact on global economic stability, supply chains, employment opportunities and workers’ welfare. Participants acknowledged that such challenges could affect many countries, including Malaysia, through rising operational costs, market volatility and pressures on employment sectors. Ramanan stressed that workers’ rights and social justice principles must continue to be upheld despite global uncertainties, adding that geopolitical instability should never be used as a reason to weaken labour standards, compromise workers’ welfare or erode social protection systems that are essential for sustainable and inclusive economic development. The engagement reinforced ties between Malaysia and UNI Global Union, one of the world’s leading international labour organisations, while strengthening strategic cooperation in labour development, social dialogue and workforce empowerment at the global level. Also present were Deputy Secretary-General (Policy and International) Dr Mohd Shaharin Umar, Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) Chief Executive Officer Datuk Seri Dr Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed, Political Secretary Aizuddin Abd Gaffal, Deputy Director of the Labour Policy Division Grace Dairiam, and senior ministry officials. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB RAMANAN RAMAKRISHANAN

YB Dato Seri R. Ramanan Strengthens Global Labour Cooperation Through Meeting with UNI Global Union

GENEVA, June 10 — Minister of Human Resources, Datuk Seri R. Ramanan participated in a high-level meeting with representatives of UNI Global Union, reaffirming Malaysia’s commitment to advancing workers’ rights, .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR: The real estate industry needs to prioritise ecological preservation over conventional land clearing practices in future development in line with Malaysia's sustainable urbanisation agenda. Minister of Housing and Local Government, Nga Kor Ming, said the approach is increasingly important as urban centres in Malaysia continue to grow rapidly, thus requiring a balance between economic growth, environmental preservation and long-term liveability. “As our cities continue to grow, the challenge is no longer just to provide more housing, but to create inclusive, safe and comfortable community spaces, while balancing economic growth, environmental preservation and long-term liveability. "We not only want to build a livable city, but also a sustainable and friendly city, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs)," he said when launching the Botanik Point Nature Reserve, here, on Tuesday. Nga said the MADANI Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has placed sustainability at the core of the national development agenda through the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) which has introduced various initiatives including the National Circular Economy Council, the Malaysian Smart City Framework and the waste-to-energy (WtE) project. He said the ministry was also integrating green technology, including the installation of solar panels, in public housing projects to ensure that the sustainable urbanisation agenda remained inclusive and benefited all Malaysians. "Malaysia is among 27 countries recognised by the UN as mega biodiversity countries. This treasure needs to be preserved and the government is planting 115 million trees as part of efforts to protect the environment," he said . Nga, who is also the President of the UN-Habitat Assembly, said Malaysia will continue to play an active role in championing sustainable urban development at the global level through collaboration and knowledge sharing with cities around the world. Regarding the launch of Botanik Point Nature Reserve today, he said the project demonstrates how collaboration between various stakeholders can be translated into development that supports the sustainability and resilience agenda of cities. He said the project was also in line with Malaysia's urban sustainability and resilience agenda and contributed to the UN SDG goals, particularly SDG 11 on Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 13 on Climate Action and SDG 15 on Livelihoods on Land. Nga also praised Urban Hallmark Properties Sdn Bhd for pioneering a development philosophy that prioritises preservation over land clearing, with almost 30 per cent of the development area being maintained as secondary forest ecosystems. “Sustainability should not be considered as a side issue or merely an additional feature. "On the contrary, it needs to be incorporated into the DNA of the development planning itself," he said while expressing the hope that Botanik Point will inspire other industry players to practice development principles that are more responsive to the environment. -- BERNAMA

Real estate industry must prioritize ecological preservation – Nga

KUALA LUMPUR: The real estate industry needs to prioritise ecological preservation over conventional land clearing practices in future development in line with Malaysia’s sustainable urbanisation agenda. Minister of Housing and .... read more

SEREMBAN: The Negeri Sembilan government is committed to supporting the halal industry development agenda which can benefit the state's economic growth. Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun said the potential of the halal industry is not limited to the food and beverage sector alone, but also involves tourism, entrepreneurship, agriculture, education, logistics and other support sectors that generate economic opportunities and improve the well-being of the people. He said that the development of the halal industry is also part of the state's development strategy because it can have a major impact on investment growth and job opportunities. "The halal industry has a very broad economic spillover effect. It stimulates the growth of small and medium enterprises, strengthens the service sector, increases export activities and attracts new investments that directly benefit the people. "This sector can strengthen Negeri Sembilan's image as a progressive, stable state, trusted by investors and ready to meet future economic needs based on sustainability and universal values," he said in his speech at the "Negeri Sembilan International Conference and Halal Expo" (NICHE) 2026 program, here, on Tuesday. Aminuddin said the state government plays a role in developing the halal industry ecosystem through the provision of strategic industrial areas, infrastructure development, investment facilitation and the implementation of various initiatives to promote the growth of high-impact industries, including the halal sector. He said the state's strategic position in the middle of the country's main economic corridors gives it a great advantage in emerging as a preferred destination for halal investment in Malaysia. "We have a good infrastructure network, access to international ports and airports, a competent workforce and the support of higher education institutions that can contribute to talent development and research related to the halal industry," he said. He said the future of the halal industry does not only depend on physical facilities or investments but also on the ability to produce talent, produce innovation and build the confidence of the world market in the halal standards developed by the country. -- BERNAMA

Negeri Sembilan committed to supporting halal industry agenda

SEREMBAN: The Negeri Sembilan government is committed to supporting the halal industry development agenda which can benefit the state’s economic growth. Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun said the potential .... read more

TOKYO, June 10 -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday presented Malaysia’s economic aspirations, policy direction and investment potential during a business dialogue with leaders of 29 major Japanese conglomerates. The dialogue, organised by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), brought together representatives from some of the world's leading companies in banking and finance, semiconductors, renewable energy, infrastructure and petrochemicals. Speaking during the session, Anwar outlined the MADANI Government’s vision for sustainable economic growth and highlighted Malaysia’s strengths as a competitive investment destination in Southeast Asia. The meeting also provided an avenue for discussions on potential investment opportunities and strategic collaborations that could deliver mutual benefits for both Malaysia and Japan. Anwar stressed that the global supply chain disruptions affecting economies worldwide are accelerating shifts in the international economic landscape. He noted that countries capable of attracting strategic industries, advanced technologies and high-value investments would be better positioned to address future challenges, particularly in strengthening energy security and economic resilience. The Prime Minister said Malaysia must continue to deepen engagement with world-leading corporations to ensure the country remains competitive and develops into a regional hub for strategic industries and future technologies. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing the national investment ecosystem through clear, consistent and investor-friendly policies aimed at attracting more quality investments into key sectors. According to Anwar, such efforts are expected to strengthen the country's economic foundations while creating more high-value employment opportunities for Malaysians. The business dialogue formed part of the Prime Minister’s official visit to Japan, which focuses on strengthening bilateral economic cooperation and expanding investment ties between the two countries. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE:FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

Malaysia Strengthens Investment Drive Through High-Level Dialogue with Japanese Business Leaders – PM Anwar

TOKYO, June 10 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday presented Malaysia’s economic aspirations, policy direction and investment potential during a business dialogue with leaders of 29 major Japanese .... read more

TOKYO, June 10 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday afternoon met representatives from six leading Japanese and international corporations as part of Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to attract high-quality investments and strengthen economic cooperation with Japan. The companies involved in the discussions were IBM Corporation, Mitsubishi Corporation, ENEOS Corporation, Shizen Energy Inc., DENSO Corporation and Marubeni Corporation. During the meetings, Anwar and the corporate leaders explored new opportunities for investment and collaboration in several strategic sectors, including energy, the halal industry, artificial intelligence (AI), data centres and digital technology. The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of strengthening partnerships amid growing global supply chain and energy challenges, noting that such collaborations are essential for enhancing resilience and ensuring long-term supply security. Anwar reiterated Malaysia’s commitment to attracting quality investments, expanding its high-technology ecosystem, creating high-value employment opportunities and deepening economic ties with Japan. He said the confidence shown by the participating companies reflects Malaysia’s growing reputation as a strategic investment destination and a trusted partner for sustainable growth in the region. The engagements formed part of Anwar’s official visit to Japan, which aims to further strengthen bilateral relations and promote greater economic cooperation between the two countries. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

PM Anwar Engages Top Japanese Firms to Expand Investments in Malaysia’s Strategic Sectors

TOKYO, June 10 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday afternoon met representatives from six leading Japanese and international corporations as part of Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to attract high-quality .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, June 9 -- The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and the Ministry of Finance (MOF) are stepping up their joint efforts to combat corruption, misappropriation and leakages to protect the country’s economic sovereignty. The commitment was reflected in a courtesy visit by MACC Chief Commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman to Treasury secretary-general Tan Sri Johan Mahmood Merican at the MOF here today. The nearly hour-long strategic meeting provided an important platform for both sides to strengthen cooperation, particularly in handling high-profile cases. Abd Halim said in a statement that the MACC and the MOF also discussed the formation of a task force or special committee to address related matters as required by current needs. “To ensure more thorough investigations and asset recovery, discussions centred on the special task force and committee established specifically to handle the case. “The MACC also said it was ready to provide full cooperation and comprehensive support in legal, enforcement and technical aspects to resolve related cases at their root cause,” he added. -- BERNAMA

MACC, MOF Bolster Strategic Ties On High-profile Cases

PUTRAJAYA, June 9 — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and the Ministry of Finance (MOF) are stepping up their joint efforts to combat corruption, misappropriation and leakages to protect the .... read more

KLANG: The Magistrate's Court here today sentenced a man to three months' jail after he pleaded guilty to a charge of stealing a Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) cable last Saturday. Magistrate Nor Azilah Mat imposed the sentence on Railey Nasal, 35, and ordered the sentence to be imposed from the date of arrest. The man is accused of stealing 40 metres (m) of 16 millimetre (mm) track cable and 20 metres of 2.5 mm track cable belonging to KTMB, worth RM850, by cutting the cable. The offence was committed on the KTM railway tracks near Jalan Sembilang 8E, Jalan Telok Pulai, here at about 1.20pm on June 6. The accused committed an offence under Section 379 of the Penal Code which provides for a sentence of seven years' imprisonment, a fine or both. The prosecution was conducted by Deputy Public Prosecutor Ahmad Sulfie Abu Hassan, while the accused was represented by National Legal Aid Foundation (YBGK) lawyer Izzat Dzulkafli. Previously, the media reported that a man was arrested while believed to be stealing cables in the railway area at Kilometer (KM) 36.215 Downline Klang. KTMB in a statement announced that the incident was uncovered when KTMB Auxiliary Police members who were conducting patrols together with the Taskforce D4 Team of the Criminal Investigation Department (JSJ) of the South Klang District Police Headquarters (IPD) received information about a disruption in the track circuit at the location in question. -- BERNAMA

Man who stole KTMB cable jailed for three months

KLANG: The Magistrate’s Court here today sentenced a man to three months’ jail after he pleaded guilty to a charge of stealing a Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) cable last .... read more

TOKYO, June 9 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today called for a human-centred approach to artificial intelligence (AI), stressing that the greatest challenge facing society is not technological advancement itself, but ensuring that innovation remains guided by human values, wisdom and compassion. Delivering a special lecture titled “Humanity in a Human-Machine Civilisation” at the University of Tokyo, Anwar reflected on the implications of rapidly advancing AI technologies and the fundamental question of what becomes of humanity as machines increasingly imitate human thinking, communication and judgement. The Prime Minister said Malaysia has set an ambitious goal of becoming an AI Nation by 2030, but emphasised that the pursuit of technological progress must be accompanied by a broader discussion on the kind of digital civilisation the world seeks to build. “Asia must not enter the age of artificial intelligence merely as a market, a manufacturing base or a source of data. We must help shape a digital civilisation worthy of humankind,” he said. Anwar highlighted what he described as a profound irony of the modern era, noting that while humanity celebrates unprecedented technological breakthroughs, conflicts and humanitarian crises continue to afflict the world. He pointed to the ongoing genocide in Gaza, violence in Iran, attacks in Lebanon and the global energy crisis linked to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz as examples of challenges that persist despite technological advancement. He warned that some of these tragedies have been enabled or amplified by technologies often associated with progress, underscoring the need for ethical oversight and responsible innovation. The Prime Minister stressed that the true measure of progress should not be the sophistication of machines, but whether technological developments uphold human dignity and advance justice. Drawing inspiration from the philosophy of Watsuji Tetsurō and his concept of ningen, Anwar said human beings are fundamentally shaped by relationships, communities, history and shared experiences. While acknowledging AI’s growing capabilities, he argued that technology cannot replicate essential human experiences such as love, grief, loss and remorse. “The future of artificial intelligence is not merely a question of innovation, but one of values, power and sovereignty,” he said. Anwar concluded by urging governments, academics and industry leaders to ensure that technological progress remains firmly in service of humanity, guided by ethical principles and a commitment to the common good. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

PM Anwar Urges Human-Centred AI Future in Special Lecture at University of Tokyo

TOKYO, June 9 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today called for a human-centred approach to artificial intelligence (AI), stressing that the greatest challenge facing society is not technological advancement itself, .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 9 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has expressed his appreciation to KEMAS educators nationwide for their dedication and contributions in shaping Malaysia’s future generations, describing them as the backbone of early childhood education in the country. Speaking at the 2026 KEMAS Educators Day Celebration themed “55 Years Smartening the Nation’s Children”, Zahid highlighted the significant role played by KEMAS teachers in nurturing young minds and instilling strong moral values among children. He said that three years ago, KEMAS embarked on a mission to ensure that children under its care would not only learn literacy and numeracy skills but also receive a strong foundation in Quranic teachings, moral values and personal identity. “Today, we can witness the positive results of that effort. The KEMAS Pre-Tahfiz Programme has become an integral part of the early education culture within KEMAS centres throughout the country,” he said. Zahid noted that the success of the programme would not have been possible without the commitment, patience and sincerity demonstrated by KEMAS educators in guiding and educating children. He said KEMAS has served as the starting point of educational journeys for more than 8.4 million Malaysian children over the past 55 years, making it one of the nation’s most important grassroots educational institutions. “The true strength of KEMAS is not measured by numbers alone, but by the dedication of its educators who build confidence, shape character and instil noble values in young children who will one day become leaders, professionals and contributors to the nation,” he said. Zahid also extended his gratitude to all KEMAS educators for their sacrifices and unwavering service, urging them to continue inspiring children through education and positive guidance. He expressed hope that KEMAS would continue producing knowledgeable, well-mannered and Quranic-minded generations capable of leading Malaysia towards greater progress and prosperity in the future. The annual celebration recognises the contributions of KEMAS educators across the country and commemorates the agency’s 55-year legacy in providing quality early childhood education and community development programmes. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ZAHID HAMIDI

Zahid Hamidi Pays Tribute to KEMAS Educators at 2026 Educators Day Celebration

KUALA LUMPUR, June 9 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has expressed his appreciation to KEMAS educators nationwide for their dedication and contributions in shaping Malaysia’s .... read more