Tag: Malaysia

Identity card evolution: Implementation of New Structure MyKad begins in phases this month

KUALA LUMPUR: After more than two decades as the main identification document for Malaysians, MyKad is now entering another new phase through the introduction of the New Structure MyKad which is equipped with more sophisticated security features, to strengthen the protection of people’s identities and personal data in the digital era. The phased implementation of […]

Interpol-Wanted Rames Gang Leader Arrested During International Flight

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 26 -- A man believed to be the leader of the notorious Rames Gang was arrested during an international flight operation last Friday under Op Tiga, following close cooperation between Malaysian, Thai and Indian authorities. Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director M. Kumar said the suspect was detained while travelling on a flight from Bangkok, Thailand to Hyderabad, India, before being brought back to Malaysia for further investigation. According to Kumar, the suspect is being investigated under Section 130V of the Penal Code for alleged involvement in an organised crime group. The offence carries a prison sentence of between five and 20 years upon conviction. He added that the suspect, who has been remanded until Friday, is also being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder. Kumar said the Sungai Petani Magistrate’s Court in Kedah had issued an arrest warrant against the suspect on March 25 in connection with two separate murder cases in Padang Serai and Bedong that took place in February and August last year. He also revealed that Interpol issued a Red Notice against the suspect on April 24, paving the way for international cooperation in tracking and arresting him. The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), he said, expressed appreciation to both Indian and Thai authorities for their assistance in the operation. “PDRM remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring national security as well as public safety are continuously protected,” Kumar said in a statement on Monday. -- MINUTESMY / SUGAN BALAN

KUALA LUMPUR, MAY 26 — A man believed to be the leader of the notorious Rames Gang was arrested during an international flight operation last Friday under Op Tiga, following close cooperation between Malaysian, Thai and Indian authorities. Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director M. Kumar said the suspect was detained while travelling on a […]

Malaysia’s Hottest Food Trends in 2026: From Matcha Craze to Luxury Hotpot Experiences

Malaysia’s food scene has never been more exciting. In 2026, the local culinary landscape is being shaped by social media trends, café culture, fusion flavors, and Gen Z dining habits. From viral matcha drinks and Japanese ramen culture to aesthetic desserts and premium hotpot experiences, Malaysians are no longer just eating for taste — they are dining for lifestyle, experience, and Instagram-worthy moments. Across cities like Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru, cafés and restaurants are rapidly adapting to evolving consumer preferences, especially among younger diners seeking unique flavors and visually appealing meals. Industry reports show that bold flavors, fusion menus, and comfort foodare dominating the food industry globally, with Malaysia becoming one of Southeast Asia’s strongest trend-driven markets. One of the biggest food trends currently dominating Malaysia is the explosive rise of matcha-based beverages and desserts. Matcha cafés are expanding nationwide, with drinks such as strawberry matcha latte, pistachio matcha, and matcha cloud foam becoming staples among urban café-goers. The popularity of matcha has surged due to its wellness appeal, vibrant aesthetic, and strong influence from TikTok and social media culture. For café lovers looking to explore Malaysia’s growing specialty coffee and matcha scene, places like VCR, LOKL Coffee Co, and Feeka Coffee Roasters have become popular lifestyle destinations known for their artisanal beverages, brunch culture, and aesthetic interiors. Another major trend sweeping through Malaysia is the growing obsession with Japanese ramen culture. Premium ramen restaurants are seeing long queues daily as Malaysians embrace authentic Japanese dining experiences featuring rich broths, handmade noodles, and premium ingredients. Social media exposure and rising travel influence have also accelerated demand for Japanese comfort food among younger Malaysians. Among the popular ramen spots gaining attention are Ippudo • Pavilion KL, Hokkaido Ramen Santouka @ Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Towzen - Kuala Lumpur, and 豚麺処 官兵衛 KANBE RAMEN JB, each offering unique Japanese noodle experiences ranging from creamy tonkotsu broth to refined chicken-based ramen. Dessert culture is also evolving rapidly in Malaysia, with visually creative sweets becoming one of the country’s strongest food lifestyle movements. Consumers are increasingly drawn to molten chocolate desserts, soufflé pancakes, matcha pastries, and Japanese-inspired sweets that combine taste with social media appeal. Many cafés are designing desserts specifically to attract online engagement through TikTok and Instagram. Popular dessert destinations include Molten Chocolate Cafe (Lot 10), Fluffed Cafe, Nomi Dessert • Wisma Cosway, Nucre Patisseries, and Next Door Dessert, where diners can enjoy trendy cakes, pastries, and creative dessert presentations. At the same time, luxury hotpot dining has emerged as one of Malaysia’s fastest-growing social dining trends. Unlike traditional steamboat concepts, modern hotpot restaurants now emphasize premium meats, private dining experiences, dramatic interiors, and late-night social gatherings. Hotpot culture has become especially popular among young professionals and groups seeking interactive dining experiences. Restaurants such as FU Pot, Harbour Hotpot, 小龙坎老火锅 Xiao Long Kan Hot pot, Shu Daxia Hot Pot@Tun Razak 蜀大侠火锅, and Zhu Guang Yu Hotpot Pudu are among the trending destinations redefining communal dining experiences in Kuala Lumpur. Despite modern food trends dominating social media, Malaysians continue to embrace traditional local dishes such as Nasi Lemak, Roti Canai, and Laksa. Online discussions across Malaysian food communities show that these classic dishes remain deeply connected to national identity and everyday comfort food culture. Interestingly, modern cafés and restaurants are now reinventing these traditional flavors through fusion concepts such as nasi lemak burgers, gourmet sambal pasta, and elevated café-style Malaysian breakfasts. Brands and restaurants are increasingly modernizing heritage cuisine to attract younger consumers while maintaining nostalgic flavors. Ultimately, Malaysia’s 2026 food trends reflect more than just changing tastes. They represent a shift toward lifestyle-driven dining, where food is tied closely to identity, social media culture, wellness, and experiential dining. Whether it is sipping premium matcha, sharing luxury hotpot with friends, enjoying Japanese ramen, or rediscovering local classics, Malaysians are proving that food remains one of the country’s strongest cultural and lifestyle passions.

Malaysia’s food scene has never been more exciting. In 2026, the local culinary landscape is being shaped by social media trends, café culture, fusion flavors, and Gen Z dining habits. From viral matcha drinks and Japanese ramen culture to aesthetic desserts and premium hotpot experiences, Malaysians are no longer just eating for taste — they […]

Malaysia, India Strengthen REE And Biodiversity Conservation Cooperation

PUTRAJAYA, May 7 (Bernama) -- Malaysia and India are committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation in biodiversity conservation, rare earth elements (REE), and green technology through various strategic initiatives discussed during a courtesy call by the Indian delegation to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES). The Indian delegation, led by India’s High Commissioner to Malaysia B. N. Reddy, was hosted by NRES deputy minister Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh. NRES, in a statement today, said that among the main discussion points was Malaysia’s active participation as a founding member of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA). According to the ministry, the international commitment is in line with Malaysia’s domestic success in achieving a 100 per cent completion rate for the Minister’s 100-Day Key Performance Indicators (KPI) in biodiversity enforcement. “Through Khazanah Integrated Operations (OBK), Malaysia has demonstrated its firm commitment to protecting wildlife, with seizures valued at RM413.1 million recorded since 2019. Malaysia is scheduled to participate in the 1st IBCA Summit in New Delhi on June 1, 2026, to finalise the Delhi Declaration on the conservation of big cat species, including the Malayan tiger,” it said. In the natural resources sector, NRES said Malaysia had also expressed interest in exploring strategic collaboration in the REE industry with Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL). Malaysia hopes to learn from India’s operational models and midstream processing technology to ensure the country’s REE industry can sustainably generate high added value. “This cooperation is expected to include aspects of technology transfer and the development of local expert capacity,” the ministry said. In addition, NRES said Malaysia had also invited the Indian delegation to leverage the platform of the International Greentech & Eco Products Exhibition & Conference Malaysia (IGEM), scheduled to take place from Oct 7 to 9 this year. “As the largest green technology hub in Southeast Asia, IGEM is the best platform for both countries to drive investment in the circular economy and low-carbon,” it said. According to NRES, the meeting also touched on preparations for collaboration with the National Biodiversity Authority regarding the Access and Benefit-Sharing (ABS) framework, as well as developments involving the National Climate Change Bill, which is expected to be tabled in Parliament this June. NRES said Malaysia and India remain committed to ensuring resilient mineral supply chains and inclusive environmental conservation efforts for shared prosperity in the region. -- BERNAMA

PUTRAJAYA, May 7 (Bernama) — Malaysia and India are committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation in biodiversity conservation, rare earth elements (REE), and green technology through various strategic initiatives discussed during a courtesy call by the Indian delegation to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES). The Indian delegation, led by India’s High Commissioner […]

Malaysia–Brunei Strengthen Disaster Management Cooperation- Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi

PUTRAJAYA, 10 APRIL -- Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in disaster management following a high-level meeting in Putrajaya yesterday. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said he received a courtesy call from Brunei’s Minister of Home Affairs, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman, who is currently leading a delegation on a working visit to Malaysia. According to Zahid, the meeting provided a meaningful platform to enhance collaboration between Malaysia’s National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) and Brunei’s National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC). Discussions focused on expanding cooperation in expertise sharing, capacity building, and the implementation of joint disaster response exercises. He also highlighted Malaysia’s recent establishment of the National Disaster Management Council (MPBN), which was approved by the Cabinet to improve coordination at the national level. In addition, Zahid emphasised ongoing initiatives such as National Preparedness Month, aimed at fostering a culture of disaster readiness among the public. Malaysia, he said, remains committed to supporting Brunei’s efforts to obtain international recognition under the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG). This includes continued assistance from Malaysia’s Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART), particularly in enhancing urban search and rescue (USAR) capabilities. Both countries agreed to further strengthen joint training programmes and cross-border coordination, including the development of clearer standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure faster and more coordinated responses during disasters, especially in border areas. “Insya-Allah, this close cooperation will continue to grow stronger,” Zahid said, adding that the next NADMA-NDMC bilateral meeting is scheduled to take place in Langkawi next July. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Photo: FB Zahid Hamidi

PUTRAJAYA, 10 APRIL — Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in disaster management following a high-level meeting in Putrajaya yesterday. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said he received a courtesy call from Brunei’s Minister of Home Affairs, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji […]

Malaysia Welcomes US-Iran Ceasefire Agreement

PUTRAJAYA, April 8 -- Malaysia welcomes the two-week ceasefire agreement reached between the United States (US) and Iran, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement Wednesday.  It said the significant development serves as a crucial step towards de-escalating tensions and restoring much-needed peace and stability to the West Asia region. Malaysia has urged all parties to fully respect and implement all terms of the ceasefire in good faith to prevent any return to hostilities.  It also urged all parties to avoid any provocative actions or unilateral measures that could negatively impact the fragile stability of the region or jeopardise global economic and energy security. “Malaysia expresses its appreciation to all parties involved in the diplomatic efforts and mediations that led to this agreement.  “This breakthrough demonstrates that diplomacy remains the only viable path to resolving long-standing conflicts and ensuring long-term regional security,” the ministry said. All the respective parties should use this window of opportunity to continue their dialogue toward a durable, comprehensive, and peaceful settlement to their differences, it added.  “Malaysia calls upon the international community to support these peace efforts and contribute toward a just and lasting resolution that ensures the safety and well-being of all peoples in the region,” the statement read.  US President Donald Trump on Tuesday announced a two-week suspension of military operations against Iran following a mediation brokered by Pakistan. In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Supreme National Security Council declared that Tehran would cease defensive operations if attacks on the country is halted. According to reports, negotiation between the parties involved is expected to take place in Islamabad on Friday. -- BERNAMA 

PUTRAJAYA, April 8 — Malaysia welcomes the two-week ceasefire agreement reached between the United States (US) and Iran, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement Wednesday. It said the significant development serves as a crucial step towards de-escalating tensions and restoring much-needed peace and stability to the West Asia region. Malaysia has urged all parties […]

Malaysia Appreciates Iran’s Support in Ensuring Energy Security – PM Anwar Ibrahim

KUALA LUMPUR, April 8 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim yesterday expressed Malaysia’s appreciation to Iran for facilitating the passage of Malaysian oil tankers through the strategic Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties in West Asia. The matter was conveyed during a meeting with the Ambassador of Iran to Malaysia, Valiollah Mohammadi, held on the sidelines of the Kuala Lumpur–Ankara Dialogue earlier today. Anwar noted that the decision by Iran comes at a critical time, as tensions in the region continue to impact global energy markets and supply chains. “In the current climate of uncertainty following the West Asia crisis, Malaysia highly values Iran’s decision to allow our oil vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz,” he said. He added that the move plays a crucial role in ensuring the continuity of the nation’s energy supply, while also helping to ease pressure on the cost of living and supporting overall economic stability. The Prime Minister emphasised that Malaysia remains committed to strengthening diplomatic ties and cooperation with international partners to safeguard national interests, particularly in times of global uncertainty. --Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris --Photo: FB Anwar Ibrahim

KUALA LUMPUR, April 8 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim yesterday expressed Malaysia’s appreciation to Iran for facilitating the passage of Malaysian oil tankers through the strategic Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties in West Asia. The matter was conveyed during a meeting with the Ambassador of Iran to Malaysia, Valiollah Mohammadi, held on the […]

Malaysia Secures Safe Passage For vessels in Strait Of Hormuz – Wisma Putra

KUALA LUMPUR, April 7 -- The Foreign Ministry on Tuesday confirmed that one of the seven Malaysian-owned commercial vessels previously stranded in the Strait of Hormuz due to the evolving regional situation has been granted safe passage and is currently proceeding to its final destination. In a statement, the ministry also known as Wisma Putra said that the positive outcome follows high-level diplomatic engagements. This include constructive telephone conversations between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on March 26, and between Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi on March 24. “Malaysia remains firmly committed to the principle of freedom of navigation, safety and security of maritime passage, in accordance with international law. “Malaysia also reiterates the importance of continued dialogue and diplomatic engagement in addressing regional challenges and maintaining peace and stability,” the statement said. On Monday, the Iran Embassy in Malaysia said that the first Malaysian ship has passed through the Strait of Hormuz. “We had said that the Islamic Republic of Iran does not forget its friends,” the embassy posted on the X platform.

KUALA LUMPUR, April 7 — The Foreign Ministry on Tuesday confirmed that one of the seven Malaysian-owned commercial vessels previously stranded in the Strait of Hormuz due to the evolving regional situation has been granted safe passage and is currently proceeding to its final destination. In a statement, the ministry also known as Wisma Putra […]

Malaysia Supports Indonesia’s Diplomatic Efforts To Ease Iran-Israel Conflict – PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, March 24 (Bernama) -- Malaysia will continue to support Indonesia’s diplomatic efforts to ease the Iran-Israel conflict to ensure tensions are reduced and civilian lives are protected. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said such support for Jakarta’s initiative is expected to help open the door to meaningful negotiations towards a peaceful and lasting solution in West Asia. In a Facebook post, Anwar said the matter was among the issues discussed during his telephone conversation with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto yesterday. “We both called for peace, and I informed President Prabowo that Malaysia supports all efforts aimed at achieving peace and resolving the conflict,” he said. Apart from regional and international matters, Anwar said he and Prabowo also agreed to meet soon to further strengthen the already close bilateral relations between the two countries. “We agreed to arrange a meeting in the near future, including my proposal to visit Jakarta as part of efforts to enhance our close bilateral ties,” he said.

KUALA LUMPUR, March 24 (Bernama) — Malaysia will continue to support Indonesia’s diplomatic efforts to ease the Iran-Israel conflict to ensure tensions are reduced and civilian lives are protected. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said such support for Jakarta’s initiative is expected to help open the door to meaningful negotiations towards a peaceful and lasting […]