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 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

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 […]

New Uptown Shah Alam Commercial Complex To Be Operational By Third Quarter of 2026

SHAH ALAM, May 25 -- A new commercial complex in Section 24 here, set to replace the Uptown Shah Alam business centre, is expected to be fully operational by the third quarter of this year. In a statement, the Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS) said the complex, designed with a modern Bugis concept, will house about 400 traders. It offers modern and eco-friendly facilities to enhance comfort for both visitors and traders. The initiative is part of PKNS’ efforts to strengthen urban development in Shah Alam while creating a more modern, organised and conducive business ecosystem for the local community. “The project is nearing completion and PKNS is in the process of obtaining the Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC). “The complex is also expected to become a new catalyst for business activities and attract more visitors to Shah Alam,” it said. According to PKNS, Uptown Shah Alam, which has been operating for over 10 years under its management, has become one of the main hotspots, attracting more than 1,000 visitors weekly. As such, the new development is expected to further boost Shah Alam’s appeal while expanding economic opportunities for local traders. “The two-storey building near Uptown Shah Alam will house 440 dry goods stalls and 20 food stalls in a safer and more organised setting. “It will be equipped with various facilities, including toilets, surau, a stage, lifts, escalators, more than 300 parking bays, as well as facilities for persons with disabilities (PWDs),” the statement said. In line with PKNS’ commitment to sustainability, the complex will also feature a rainwater harvesting system, natural ventilation, waste management for food stalls, and green spaces both inside and outside the building. In addition, community spaces such as a stage, open areas and concourse will create a more comfortable environment for visitors. To improve traffic flow, visitors can use the new access road at Jalan Pudina 24/41 connecting Masjid Al-Ehsan and Kompleks Warga Emas, in addition to the existing route via Persiaran Sultan. -- BERNAMA

SHAH ALAM, May 25 — A new commercial complex in Section 24 here, set to replace the Uptown Shah Alam business centre, is expected to be fully operational by the third quarter of this year. In a statement, the Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS) said the complex, designed with a modern Bugis concept, will house […]

Jitra Half Marathon Targets Record 2,200 Entries

ALOR SETAR, May 13– The Jitra Half Marathon (JHM), organised by Bina Darulaman Berhad (BDB), will return on Sept 19, targeting a record 2,200 participants. BDB Group chief executive officer Che Abdul Khalid Md Din said JHM 2026 returns to the calendar of events of BDB Leisure Sdn Bhd after it was last held in […]

PM Anwar Ibrahim Reaffirms Malaysia’s Commitment to Strengthening Regional Cooperation Through BIMP-EAGA Vision 2035

CEBU, May 8 — Anwar Ibrahim yesterday reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to enhancing regional cooperation through the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA), describing the platform as a strategic mechanism to bridge development gaps and expand economic opportunities across the region. Speaking at the Special BIMP-EAGA Summit in Cebu, the Prime Minister said the BIMP-EAGA Vision 2035 must be driven by a spirit of solidarity, sustainable governance and a strong commitment to ensuring that remote and less-developed regions are not left behind in the development agenda. Anwar stressed that the regional cooperation framework plays a vital role in strengthening trade networks, attracting investments, improving digital connectivity and enhancing food security for the benefit of communities across ASEAN. Amid global challenges such as energy supply crises, climate change and economic uncertainties, he said the region must adopt a more integrated and courageous approach in addressing emerging issues. He noted that Malaysia fully supports efforts to strengthen cross-border energy connectivity, increase investments in renewable energy and promote sustainable solutions such as solar energy and mini-grid systems to ensure inclusive and equitable development, particularly for rural and interior communities. According to Anwar, the BIMP-EAGA Vision 2035 is not merely a policy document, but a collective aspiration to build a more resilient, competitive and people-centred region. “With the ASEAN spirit continuing to thrive, Malaysia will remain committed to supporting development agendas that uplift humanity, empower local communities and create a more prosperous future for coming generations,” he said. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE:FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

CEBU, May 8 — Anwar Ibrahim yesterday reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to enhancing regional cooperation through the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA), describing the platform as a strategic mechanism to bridge development gaps and expand economic opportunities across the region. Speaking at the Special BIMP-EAGA Summit in Cebu, the Prime Minister said the BIMP-EAGA […]

Malaysia Remains Resilient in the Face of Global Crisis – Steven Sim

KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 -- Malaysia has three main advantages that can ensure the country continues to be resilient and competitive, said Minister of Development of Entrepreneurs and Cooperatives Steven Sim Chee Keong yesterday. He said these advantages include political stability and a conducive climate, a strategic geographical position and the strength of the human factor among the country's diverse society. "In a world hit by various crises, many things are beyond our control but Malaysia has three main ingredients that allow us to continue to succeed," he said when speaking at the Bisnes Sinar Harian Awards (BISA 2026) here organised by Sinar Harian. Also present were Karangkraf Chairman Firdaus Hussamuddin and Sinar Karangkraf Chief Executive Officer Farah Hussamuddin. Sim also said that the country's political stability and strong leadership are the foundation for investor confidence and economic growth, in addition to Malaysia's strategic geopolitical and geoeconomic position, which also provides advantages in strengthening international trade and investment relations. "The third factor is our diverse people, who are fluent in various languages ​​and understand various cultures around the world," he said. He also described the organisation of the awards by the Malay-language newspaper, Sinar Harian, as a significant step in recognising the capabilities of local entrepreneurs. "There are many business awards organised by Chinese-language newspapers that have seen many Malay entrepreneurs succeed... today, I am very proud that the Malay-language newspaper has also taken the initiative to recognise the capabilities of local entrepreneurs, especially Malay entrepreneurs in their respective sectors," he said. At the ceremony, a total of 37 awards were presented, including the Global Logistics & Maritime Leader Award, the Entrepreneur Development Leader Award and the Jury's Choice Award, and Andalusia Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd won the BISA 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award. Meanwhile, Firdaus said BISA 2026 is a tribute to local entrepreneurs who have high spirit and resilience in facing the current economic challenges. "Sinar Harian has stood for two decades as a consistent voice bringing the issues, pulse and aspirations of the people including entrepreneurs across the country," he said. -- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 — Malaysia has three main advantages that can ensure the country continues to be resilient and competitive, said Minister of Development of Entrepreneurs and Cooperatives Steven Sim Chee Keong yesterday. He said these advantages include political stability and a conducive climate, a strategic geographical position and the strength of the human […]