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SEREMBAN: The Unity Government will continue to focus on three main thrusts, namely maintaining political stability, driving economic prosperity and safeguarding the welfare of the people, said Pakatan Harapan (PH) Secretary-General Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. He said this principle is also the basis of unification in the Unity Government and has been proven in its implementation over the past three years. "This government was formed based on mutual trust and respect. These two political values, trust and respect, are why I am impressed with Tok Min (Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun) who managed to maintain his victory in Negeri Sembilan and govern successfully," he said when speaking at the PH Main Leadership Inaugural Lecture here last night. Also present were Aminuddin, who is also the Negeri Sembilan PH chairman, Amanah president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke. Saifuddin Nasution said he also has confidence in the continuity of the current leadership, with the current term remaining for less than two years. "We place strong confidence in Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, we want him to continue for the remaining term and if asked what PH's direction is, we want to strive to govern for a second term and Anwar to lead as Prime Minister for a second term." "Our direction is very clear and that must start with Negeri Sembilan, we continue to build strength and Tok Min will continue to lead with excellence," he said. At the same time, Saifuddin Nasution said priority would continue to be given to the welfare of the people and the continuity of economic policies in facing current global challenges. "...the world is currently facing a crisis, whatever their target, the situation is causing us to face an energy crisis...we meet every week in the Economic Action Council, there is no other way. We promise the people, we will defend the people's welfare and economic stability," he said. Meanwhile, Loke stressed the importance of political consensus between parties in the government as the main basis to ensure that the stability of state and federal administration is maintained. Commenting on the recent political situation in Negeri Sembilan, he said there were several important lessons for leaders, including the need to remain calm and act rationally in the face of crises. Anthony, who is also the Chennah State Assemblyman (ADUN), assured that all 17 PH assemblymen in Negeri Sembilan would remain united and support the existing leadership to continue the mandate to the people. "We want the state to be stable so that the country is also stable. This is important to ensure that the administration of the Federal Government under the leadership of Datuk Seri Anwar can continue," he said, urging all elected representatives and party machinery to continue to focus on their respective duties, especially in resolving the people's issues and ensuring that the administration runs smoothly. Meanwhile, Aminuddin said his party would continue to provide commitment in ensuring that the state government's development and economy were on a stable, structured and continuous path for the well-being of the people. He said that despite the political crisis in the state, the state government's priority was to ensure that the welfare of the people was always maintained, including paying attention to aspects of education, economic stability and efforts to attract more investment. "We want this state to continue to progress, we want this state to continue to run well, we want the children who are studying to continue to be taken care of... the state government needs to take proactive steps to ensure the economy continues to grow and the people are not burdened, in fact today there are companies coming to invest in this state. "Today we don't want to talk about politics, politics, politics. We want to talk about how we can win the hearts of the people by reducing their burdens. This is what we must do. This is what the young people must ensure is peace, prosperity so that we can continue to move forward better," he said. -- BERNAMA

Unity Government focuses on maintaining political stability, people’s welfare

SEREMBAN: The Unity Government will continue to focus on three main thrusts, namely maintaining political stability, driving economic prosperity and safeguarding the welfare of the people, said Pakatan Harapan (PH) .... read more

The Unity Government Leadership Consultative Council, co-chaired by Anwar Ibrahim and Ahmad Zahid Hamidi yesterday, has agreed to maintain cooperation between UMNO and Pakatan Harapan in Negeri Sembilan. In a meeting held on 5 May 2026, the council reached a consensus to preserve the Unity Government framework in the state, emphasizing the importance of political stability and the well-being of the people. The council also expressed respect for the positions taken by both parties’ political bureaus concerning ongoing issues in Negeri Sembilan. Additionally, the council decided that any state government decisions that could potentially spark sensitivities or lead to disputes must be promptly referred to the joint consultative body for further deliberation. The statement was jointly issued by Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki following the meeting. -- MINUTESMY -- CREDIT: FB PAKATAN HARAPAN

Unity Government Leaders Agree to Maintain Cooperation in Negeri Sembilan

The Unity Government Leadership Consultative Council, co-chaired by Anwar Ibrahim and Ahmad Zahid Hamidi yesterday, has agreed to maintain cooperation between UMNO and Pakatan Harapan in Negeri Sembilan. In a .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 5 -- UMNO has no intention of becoming the opposition in Negeri Sembilan and will continue supporting and remain as part of the state’s Unity Government, party president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said. He said the party’s national leadership has finalised the position of all 14 UMNO assemblymen in Negeri Sembilan to continue backing the existing state government. “We have no intention of becoming the opposition. UMNO at the national level has decided that all 14 assemblymen in Negeri Sembilan will remain part of the Unity Government,” he told reporters after the Kami Gen MARA Gathering here today. Ahmad Zahid said this in response to speculation over the party’s position in the state, adding that UMNO has not discussed any proposal to appoint a Menteri Besar from its ranks. On preparations for possible snap elections in Negeri Sembilan, Melaka and Johor, he said all component parties have begun groundwork to ensure readiness, but it is still too early to identify potential candidates. Commenting on a proposal by economists to make Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) the core of a dedicated ministry for Bumiputera development, Ahmad Zahid said the idea has never been considered. “It has never been our intention, even if it is a proposal. MARA will remain, for now, as a key agency under the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development,” he said. He added that strengthening the Bumiputera agenda through MARA is in line with Article 153 of the Federal Constitution and the social contract, aimed at improving the community’s wellbeing without neglecting the interests of other groups. -- BERNAMA

UMNO To Remain In Negeri Sembilan Unity Government – Ahmad Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR, May 5 — UMNO has no intention of becoming the opposition in Negeri Sembilan and will continue supporting and remain as part of the state’s Unity Government, party .... read more

Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has unveiled five core principles aimed at steering United Malays National Organisation towards its long-term vision of reaching a century of leadership and relevance. Speaking at a party engagement, Zahid stressed that UMNO’s struggle must not be confined to present challenges alone, but should instead focus on building a strong foundation for the future—looking ahead to the party’s 100-year milestone. He emphasized the importance of nurturing a new generation of Malays who are resilient in spirit, clear in thought, and guided by strong moral values. According to him, this generation must be capable of leading, innovating, and contributing meaningfully to religion, race, and the nation. Zahid explained that the five core principles he introduced will serve as a strategic guide over the next two decades, shaping not only the strength of the party but also the development of future leaders. “These principles are not solely about reinforcing the party structure, but about cultivating individuals who are big-hearted, knowledgeable, and united in leadership,” he said. The initiative reflects UMNO’s broader effort to remain relevant in a changing political landscape while focusing on long-term leadership development and national contribution. -- MINUTESMY -- CREDIT: FB ZAHID HAMIDI

Datuk Seri Dr. Zahid Hamidi Outlines Five Core Principles to Guide UMNO Towards Its 100-Year Vision

Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has unveiled five core principles aimed at steering United Malays National Organisation towards its long-term vision of reaching a century of leadership and relevance. .... read more

Malaysia To Roll Out B15 Biodiesel From June 1 - Datuk Seri Dr.Ahmad Zahid

Malaysia To Roll Out B15 Biodiesel From June 1 – Datuk Seri Dr.Ahmad Zahid

PUTRAJAYA, May 4 — The government has decided that B15 biodiesel will be produced by 19 licensed plants from June 1 this year, in a move aimed at lowering diesel .... read more

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PUTRAJAYA, May 4 -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the situation in Negeri Sembilan should be viewed in the context of respecting the royal institution and maintaining administrative stability. As such, Anwar, who is also chairman of Pakatan Harapan (PH), said a statement by a UMNO leader in Negeri Sembilan that the party is prepared to become the opposition in the state should not be overplayed. “The UMNO (Negeri Sembilan) statement is not yet clear. I do not wish to comment on it. “At present, if the issue concerns the royal institution, I have personally heard from His Royal Higness Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir. “So the issue does not arise, as we abide by the Ruler’s decree, which calls for stability and for the Menteri Besar (Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun) to continue (his duties),” he told reporters after attending the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability’s monthly assembly here today. He was commenting on a statement issued by Negeri Sembilan UMNO liaison committee chairman Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias, who stressed that the party is willing to become the opposition rather than work with PH in the state government, as it does not want to be associated with the state’s customary and constitutional crisis. Elaborating further, Anwar said any claims that the Negeri Sembilan government led by Aminuddin has lost majority support must be determined through proper legal processes. “Has it truly lost full support? That will all follow due process,” he said. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding the monarchy, including the role of the four Undangs (traditional chieftains) as part of Negeri Sembilan’s governance structure. “I have also conveyed to the Menteri Besar that, in addition to adhering to the decree of the Yang Dipertuan Besar, he should continue engaging with the four Undangs, in accordance with Negeri Sembilan’s laws and customs,” he said. On April 27, all 14 Barisan Nasional assemblymen in Negeri Sembilan were reported to have announced a loss of confidence and withdrawn support for the state government led by Aminuddin, following a crisis involving the state’s customary and constitutional institutions. The crisis in Negeri Sembilan began after the Undang Luak Sungei Ujong, who was reported to have signed the declaration to depose Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir as the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan. -- BERNAMA

Ensure Continued Administrative Stability In Negeri Sembilan – Anwar

PUTRAJAYA, May 4 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the situation in Negeri Sembilan should be viewed in the context of respecting the royal institution and maintaining administrative .... read more

SABAH, 17 APRIL -- Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called for stronger unity and renewed determination within UMNO Sabah following the conclusion of the state election, stressing that the party’s struggle continues beyond the polls. Speaking after a key meeting with the leadership of the Negeri Sabah UMNO Liaison Body, Zahid emphasized the importance of regrouping and refining strategies to ensure the party remains cohesive and forward-looking. “We are not stopping here. After the Sabah state election, we must reassess, reorganise, and determine our next steps,” he said. Zahid underscored the need for party members to close ranks, streamline coordination, and move in unison as one team. He described unity as the foundation for strengthening UMNO’s position and maintaining its relevance among the people of Sabah. “The struggle never ends. What matters now is our resolve to stay united and committed,” he added. Expressing confidence in the party’s direction, Zahid said that with strong determination and collective commitment, UMNO Sabah will continue to progress and remain close to the rakyat. He reaffirmed that the party’s mission is not only political, but also rooted in service—ensuring that UMNO remains a steadfast partner to the people of Sabah as it moves forward into the next phase. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Credit: FB Zahid Hamidi

“UMNO SABAH MUST STAY UNITED AND MOVE FORWARD” — DATUK SERI DR. ZAHID HAMIDI REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT AFTER STATE POLLS

SABAH, 17 APRIL — Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called for stronger unity and renewed determination within UMNO Sabah following the conclusion of the state election, stressing that .... read more

KUALA TERENGGANU, 14 APRIL -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said his meeting with leaders and members of KEADILAN Terengganu yesterday served as a crucial platform to evaluate the party’s reform-driven struggle and reinforce its commitment to defending the people, particularly the poor and marginalized. He stressed that justice must go beyond rhetoric, calling for a more impactful approach grounded in facts, service, and sincerity. Anwar noted that the party’s past achievements have demonstrated its capabilities, and urged members to rebuild that strength by ensuring every area in Terengganu is well-organised and given proper attention. He called on leaders and members across all branches to strengthen party organisation, intensify grassroots efforts, and actively engage with the people by clearly explaining MADANI Government policies. “The people deserve to know the truth and must not be misled by slander or narrow political narratives,” he said. Anwar also cautioned against divisive politics driven by empty sentiments, urging KEADILAN to remain a voice of hope that upholds values of courtesy while offering practical solutions for the future. He expressed confidence that with strong determination, unity, and disciplined efforts, the party would once again emerge as a key force championing the welfare and aspirations of the people of Terengganu and the nation. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Credit: PM Anwar Ibrahim

PM ANWAR URGES KEADILAN TERENGGANU TO STRENGTHEN GRASSROOTS, DEFEND PEOPLE’S WELFARE

KUALA TERENGGANU, 14 APRIL — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said his meeting with leaders and members of KEADILAN Terengganu yesterday served as a crucial platform to evaluate the .... read more

KUANTAN, April 11 -- Pahang Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) State Leadership Council chairman Datuk Ahmad Farhan Fauzi says he has been entrusted by PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to reclaim the Indera Mahkota parliamentary seat in the 16th General Election (GE16). Ahmad Farhan, who is also the political secretary to the Prime Minister, said the entrustment was a major responsibility that must be shouldered together. “Without the cooperation of all branch members, it would be difficult for us to move forward,” he said when speaking at the Indera Mahkota PKR Division Annual General Meeting here. Meanwhile, Ahmad Farhan, who is also the Indera Mahkota Division chief, said PKR membership in the area had now reached 6,666, with an increase of 1,962 members, and was targeting 10,000 members before the PKR National Congress begins. He said the party remained committed to recapturing the parliamentary seat, based on PKR’s record of victories in the constituency in 2008, 2013 and 2018, which would help the party remain in power in GE16. In GE15, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah defended the Indera Mahkota parliamentary seat under the Bersatu banner with a majority of 8,399 votes, defeating three challengers from Pakatan Harapan, Barisan Nasional and Pejuang. Saifuddin had previously won the Indera Mahkota parliamentary seat representing PKR in 2018. Meanwhile, Ahmad Farhan warned parties attempting to tarnish the image of the party, including those from within its own ranks, as such actions could weaken the party. “Attacking the PKR president is like attacking all of us, and we will oppose any efforts that could divide the party,” he said.

Ahmad Farhan Tasked With Reclaiming Indera Mahkota Parliamentary Seat For PKR

KUANTAN, April 11 — Pahang Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) State Leadership Council chairman Datuk Ahmad Farhan Fauzi says he has been entrusted by PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to .... read more

KEPALA BATAS, April 11 -- Former UMNO Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin's main focus at the moment is on his application to rejoin the party. Therefore, he described any discussion about the seat to be contested in the upcoming general election (GE) as too early. "I think it is too early for us to discuss where to contest (because) I am just in the process of returning, so the matter is not appropriate to discuss," he told reporters after attending the Aidilfitri Open House of Bertam assemblyman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican here tonight. After three years of being expelled from UMNO, Khairy submitted an appeal letter to return to UMNO on March 15. UMNO vice president Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin previously said that the applications of several former UMNO leaders including Sembrong MP Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein and Khairy to rejoin the party would be discussed at the UMNO Supreme Council Meeting (MT) on April 17 based on the spirit of "Rumah Bangsa". Khairy said the determination of candidates and seat distribution by Barisan Nasional (BN) was under the jurisdiction of its chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi who is also UMNO president, hence he did not want to preempt any party decisions. Meanwhile, he said that the wish of former Prime Minister the late Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi who is also a former Kepala Batas MP for the parliamentary seat to continue to be led by an individual he trusted, namely Reezal Merican who is now the chairman of the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), should be respected. “During his lifetime, Pak Lah had advised both of us, me as his son-in-law and Reezal Merican as his political son, to let Reezal take care of Kepala Batas. “So, I will not disrespect his decision and wish. I hope that Reezal Merican will succeed in the GE and be able to reclaim the Kepala Batas parliamentary seat,” he said. In the 15th GE, Reezal Merican failed to defend his Kepala Batas parliamentary seat when he lost to Perikan Nasional (PN) candidate Dr Siti Mastura Muhammad with a majority of 2,867 votes.

Khairy To Focus On Returning To UMNO, Still Early For Seat Discussion

KEPALA BATAS, April 11 — Former UMNO Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin’s main focus at the moment is on his application to rejoin the party. Therefore, he described any discussion about .... read more

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PUTRAJAYA, JUNE 14 -- The National-Level Maal Hijrah Celebration 1448H/2026M will begin with a special Tausiyyah @ Maal Hijrah and Maal Hijrah Prayer Recitation Ceremony at the Putra Mosque, here, this evening. The Director-General of the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM), Datuk Sirajuddin Suhaimee, said that the program, which starts at 4pm, will be attended by the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Zulkifli Hasan, while the prayer recitation will be led by the Grand Imam of the Putra Mosque, Muhamad Zakuwa Rodzali. He said the highlight of the celebration is scheduled to take place tomorrow in conjunction with 1 Muharram 1448H at the Putra Mosque starting at 7am with the presentation of the Tokoh Maal Hijrah Awards in the National and International Categories. "The ceremony will be officiated by the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, who has agreed to attend the ceremony," he said in a statement today. Sirajuddin said that 5,000 guests were expected to attend the celebration, including Deputy Prime Ministers, Cabinet Ministers, Heads of Services, representatives of ministries, departments, statutory bodies, institutions of higher learning and the private sector around Putrajaya and Kuala Lumpur. Sirajuddin said, "CIVIL LIFE, BLESSED UMMA" was chosen as the theme for this year's celebration to coincide with the spirit of the Prophet Muhammad's migration, which became the starting point for building a superior Islamic civilization through the establishment of the state of Medina. He said that the values ​​of justice, unity, trust, kindness and well-being that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) implemented in the formation of the Madinah community were also in line with the aspirations of MADANI Malaysia which emphasised aspects of sustainability, well-being, creativity, respect, confidence and kindness. "Therefore, the appreciation of MADANI values ​​is believed to be able to create a united, resilient and blessed ummah, in line with the spirit of migration in developing a prosperous society and country," he said. Sirajuddin said that among the special features of this year's celebration is the introduction of the Tausiyyah @ Maal Hijrah program as a new addition that focuses on the contemplation of Quranic verses, thus inviting Muslims to appreciate the meaning of hijrah as a turning point in life. He said that this approach allows participants to not only listen to the recitation of the Quran by the best reciters, but also understand the messages, wisdom and guidance from the verses recited to be applied in daily life. Apart from that, Sirajuddin said, the National and International Maal Hijrah 1448H/2026M Prime Lecture Ceremony will be held on June 18 at the Putrajaya Islamic Complex Auditorium starting at 9 am to allow award recipients to share their knowledge, experiences and views on the results of their contributions to the development of the ummah. He said that this year's celebration was organized in a modest manner but remained lively, prestigious and meaningful in line with the country's priorities in strengthening the fiscal position and the well-being of the people. -- BERNAMA

5,000 expected to attend National-Level Maal Hijrah celebration at Putra Mosque tomorrow

KUALA LUMPUR, June 16 — All banks in Malaysia will abolish the RM1 charge for interbank cash withdrawals at Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and Smart Recycler Machines (SRMs) beginning July 1, 2026, in a move expected to benefit millions of banking customers nationwide. The decision means customers will no longer be charged a fee when withdrawing cash from ATMs or SRMs operated by banks other than their own. Previously, interbank cash withdrawals typically incurred a RM1 service charge per transaction. The fee waiver is expected to provide greater convenience and cost savings for consumers, particularly those who frequently rely on ATM networks outside their primary banking institution. Industry observers believe the move reflects ongoing efforts by the banking sector to enhance customer experience and support the country's transition towards a more inclusive and efficient financial ecosystem. The abolition of the fee will apply across participating banking institutions nationwide, allowing customers to access cash more freely without having to consider additional withdrawal charges. The initiative is also expected to encourage wider usage of banking services and improve accessibility, especially in areas where customers may have limited access to their own bank's ATM network. Further details regarding the implementation and any applicable conditions are expected to be announced by individual banks ahead of the July 1 commencement date. The removal of the RM1 interbank withdrawal fee marks one of the most significant consumer-friendly banking measures introduced this year, offering direct savings to Malaysians who regularly conduct cash withdrawal transactions across different banking networks. -- MINUTESMY

RM1 ATM Withdrawal Fee to Be Scrapped Nationwide Starting July 1

As the cost of living continues to shape household spending decisions, more Malaysians are rediscovering a simple yet effective way to save money while maintaining a healthy lifestyle — cooking at home. From young professionals living in urban apartments to families managing monthly budgets, home cooking has become more than just a practical necessity. It is increasingly seen as a lifestyle choice that promotes financial discipline, healthier eating habits and stronger family connections. A Return to the Home Kitchen In recent years, food delivery apps and dining out became an integral part of modern Malaysian life. Convenience often outweighed cost considerations, especially for busy working adults. However, as household expenses rise, many consumers are taking a closer look at their daily spending habits. A meal purchased outside can easily cost between RM15 and RM25 per person, while the same meal prepared at home may cost significantly less. For families with children, the savings become even more substantial. Preparing meals at home allows households to control both their budget and food quality, making every ringgit go further. Smart Shopping, Smarter Spending Home cooking begins long before ingredients reach the kitchen. Budget-conscious Malaysians are becoming more strategic shoppers by comparing prices, purchasing seasonal produce and planning meals around weekly promotions. Wet markets remain popular for fresh vegetables, fish and poultry, while supermarkets offer competitive discounts on pantry essentials. Many households are also embracing meal planning, creating weekly menus to avoid unnecessary purchases and reduce food waste. By buying only what is needed, families can maximise value while minimising spoilage. Simple ingredients such as eggs, tofu, vegetables, rice and local fish continue to form the foundation of affordable and nutritious meals. Traditional Recipes Make a Comeback Interestingly, the trend towards home cooking is also contributing to the revival of traditional Malaysian recipes. Dishes such as nasi goreng kampung, sambal telur, sayur lemak, ikan kembung bakar and chicken curry are finding their way back onto dining tables. These meals are not only economical but also deeply connected to Malaysia's rich culinary heritage. Many younger Malaysians are learning recipes from parents and grandparents, ensuring that family traditions are preserved while adapting them to modern lifestyles. Social media platforms have further accelerated this movement, with countless creators sharing affordable meal ideas, cooking tutorials and budget-friendly recipes tailored to local tastes. Health Benefits Beyond Savings While financial considerations may drive the decision to cook at home, the health benefits are equally significant. Home-cooked meals generally contain less sugar, salt and unhealthy fats compared to many commercially prepared foods. Families can choose fresher ingredients, control portion sizes and incorporate more vegetables into their diets. Nutrition experts have long emphasised that healthy eating does not necessarily require expensive ingredients. Balanced meals can be prepared using affordable local produce and traditional cooking methods. As awareness of wellness and preventive healthcare grows, home cooking is becoming an important component of a healthier lifestyle. Strengthening Family Bonds Beyond economics and nutrition, home cooking offers something that money cannot buy — quality time. For many families, preparing and sharing meals together creates opportunities for conversation, learning and bonding. Children can participate in simple cooking tasks, while family recipes become a way of passing knowledge from one generation to the next. In an increasingly digital world, the dinner table remains one of the few places where families can slow down and reconnect. More Than Just Saving Money The growing popularity of home cooking reflects a broader shift in how Malaysians define a good quality of life. Living well on a tight budget is not merely about cutting expenses. It is about making thoughtful choices that support financial stability, personal wellbeing and family relationships. As Malaysians navigate economic challenges, many are discovering that some of life's greatest comforts do not come from expensive restaurants or trendy food deliveries. Sometimes, they come from a simple home-cooked meal shared with loved ones around the dining table. In a time when every ringgit counts, home cooking is proving that living well does not have to mean spending more. Instead, it is becoming a powerful reminder that good food, good health and strong family connections can all begin at home. -- MINUTESMY / SUGAN BALAN

Every Ringgit Counts: Why More Malaysians Are Returning to Home Cooking

SHANGHAI, June 15 -- The Shanghai Museum will present "On Top of the World Tree: Ancient Civilizations of the Americas" (July 9, 2026 – Nov. 14, 2027 at the Shanghai Museum on People's Square), a major exhibition exploring the artistic, cultural, and spiritual traditions of ancient civilizations across Central and South America. Following the success of 'On Top of the Pyramid,' this exhibition features exceptional objects from Mexico and Peru, showcasing the ancient Americas' greatest achievements. Organized in partnership with museums and cultural institutions in Mexico and Peru, the exhibition features 1,129 groups of objects, nearly 3,000 pieces. Through an expansive presentation of archaeological and artistic material, it examines the development of ancient civilizations across Central and South America and their enduring cultural legacies.    Occupying more than 7,000 square meters of gallery space, the exhibition is organized into two complementary sections focused on the histories, artistic traditions, and material cultures of Mexico and Peru. The first section, "Sacred Spaces: Civilizations of Ancient Mexico". Examining the relationship between belief systems, political authority, and artistic production, the presentation explores the cosmological frameworks that shaped ancient Mesoamerican societies. Through monumental works, ritual objects, and everyday artifacts, visitors are introduced to the intellectual and cultural worlds of these civilizations. The second section, "Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru". As the largest exhibition on Andean civilizations ever presented in China, it is also among the most significant international touring exhibitions of Peruvian gold and silver artifacts. Tracing the development of societies across the Andes, the exhibition highlights the region's artistic achievements while examining the social, political, and spiritual systems that shaped its civilizations. During the exhibition period, the Shanghai Museum on People's Square will be dedicated exclusively to the presentation. Inspired by the symbolic concept of the World Tree, exhibition design throughout the museum incorporates visual references drawn from the ancient Americas, including maize, jaguars, feathered serpents, and pyramids. To create an authentic ancient American ambiance, the venue becomes a 10,000 square meters immersive space, where visitors enter through a cornfield directly into the ancient landscape. Interpretive installations before the galleries introduce ancient America's landscapes, beliefs, and traditions. Starting June 1, 2026, international visitors can buy timed-entry tickets on Trip.com (ID required) or on-site at the Shanghai Museum on People's Square. -- PRNewswire -- Source: The Shanghai Museum

The Shanghai Museum to Present “On Top of the World Tree: Ancient Civilizations of the Americas”

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 16 -- The ringgit opened higher against the US dollar on expectations that the United States Federal Reserve (US Fed) will maintain interest rates amid easing inflation concerns and falling US Treasury yields. At 8am, the local currency strengthened to 4.0455/0550 against the US dollar from 4.0485/0525 at yesterday's close. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd Chief Economist, Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said crude oil prices continued to decline following growing expectations that a peace deal between the US and Iran on June 19 could potentially lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. He said West Texas Intermediate (WTI) and Brent crude oil prices fell 4.87 percent and 4.24 percent to US$80.75 and US$83.63 per barrel, respectively, while the 10-year US Treasury yield fell below 4.50 percent, reflecting concerns over easing inflation. "Therefore, such developments could influence members of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) as they consider the interest rate decision on June 16 and 17," he told Bernama. Mohd Afzanizam said the ringgit has the potential to continue its strengthening today after closing 0.18 percent higher on Monday, supported by optimism over the possibility of a US-Iran peace deal, although investors remain cautious ahead of the signing of the deal expected to take place on June 19. At the opening of trading, the ringgit also strengthened against a basket of major currencies. The local currency rose against the Japanese yen to 2.5245/5306 from 2.5283/5309 at Monday's close, strengthened against the British pound to 5.4270/4398 from 5.4355/4409 and rose against the euro to 4.6891/7002 from 4.6987/7033. Against regional currencies, the ringgit traded mostly higher except against the Philippine peso which was almost unchanged at 6.69/6.71 compared to the 6.69/6.70 level when it closed on Monday. The ringgit also strengthened against the Thai baht to 12.4228/4601 from 12.4294/4474 at yesterday's close, rose against the Indonesian rupiah to 228.4/229.1 from 228.5/228.9 and rose against the Singapore dollar to 3.1534/1611 from 3.1580/1613. -- BERNAMA

Ringgit opens higher against US dollar on expectations of Fed rate hold