Tag: Malaysia

Green Technology Tax Incentives Extended Until 2030

KUALA LUMPUR: The government will extend tax incentives for companies adopting green and sustainable technologies until Dec 31, 2030, as part of efforts to accelerate the country’s transition towards a greener economy. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced the extension when tabling Budget 2027, saying companies undertaking green and sustainable technology projects would be eligible for […]

RM160 Million Package to Boost Gig Workers’ Income, Social Protection

KUALA LUMPUR: E-hailing drivers could see their median net monthly income increase by up to RM227, while p-hailing delivery riders could earn up to RM100 more under a RM160 million package jointly funded by the government and Grab from 2027. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced the initiative when tabling Budget 2027 in the Dewan Rakyat, […]

More Than 9,000 Contract Doctors to Receive Permanent Posts Next Year

PETALING JAYA: More than 9,000 contract doctors in the public healthcare service will be offered permanent positions next year, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced when tabling Budget 2027. Anwar said the government was committed to resolving the long-standing issues faced by contract doctors by the end of next year. He said the government had offered […]

Sabah, Sarawak Receive Higher Federal Allocations of RM18.7 Billion and RM16.2 Billion

KUALA LUMPUR: Sabah and Sarawak will continue to receive the largest federal allocations among the states in 2027, with Sabah allocated RM18.7 billion and Sarawak RM16.2 billion. Tabling Budget 2027, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said Sabah’s allocation had increased from RM17.6 billion this year, while Sarawak’s rose from RM15.1 billion. Anwar also announced that the […]

Malaysia’s 2027 Budget Rises to RM459.84 Billion

PETALING JAYA: The federal government has allocated RM459.84 billion for Budget 2027, an increase of about RM40.6 billion from the RM419.2 billion allocated in 2026. Operating expenditure accounts for RM376.8 billion, or about 82% of the total budget, while RM83 billion has been set aside for development expenditure. According to the Finance Ministry’s 2027 Fiscal […]

PM Anwar Meets Malaysian Diaspora in Ashgabat, Reaffirms Commitment to Malaysians Abroad

ASHGABAT, June 19 -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today expressed appreciation for the Malaysian diaspora in Turkmenistan, describing them as the country's unofficial ambassadors who play a vital role in strengthening Malaysia's reputation and international standing. Speaking during a gathering with Malaysians residing in Ashgabat, Anwar said the warmth and camaraderie shared among the community made it feel as though they were celebrating together back home in Kuala Lumpur despite being thousands of kilometres away. "Although far from their beloved homeland, the spirit and warmth of their togetherness make it feel as though we are gathered in Kuala Lumpur," he said. The Prime Minister praised Malaysians abroad for contributing to the country's image and prestige through their professional achievements, networks and engagement with local communities. He said they serve as important representatives of Malaysia, helping to expand international connections and elevate the nation's dignity on the global stage. Anwar also reaffirmed the MADANI Government's commitment to maintaining close ties with Malaysians living overseas, ensuring they remain connected to the homeland and recognised as an integral part of national development. "The government remains committed to strengthening its relationship with Malaysians abroad, ensuring they continue to feel valued and remain part of the pulse and spirit of nation-building," he said. During the session, Anwar also shared the objectives of his official visit to Ashgabat, explaining that discussions with Turkmenistan extend beyond trade, investment and economic cooperation. He said the visit is equally focused on expanding friendship between the two nations, deepening mutual understanding and exploring new avenues of collaboration that would bring benefits to both countries. The Prime Minister is currently in Turkmenistan as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and identify new opportunities for cooperation across various sectors. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

ASHGABAT, June 19 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today expressed appreciation for the Malaysian diaspora in Turkmenistan, describing them as the country’s unofficial ambassadors who play a vital role in strengthening Malaysia’s reputation and international standing. Speaking during a gathering with Malaysians residing in Ashgabat, Anwar said the warmth and camaraderie shared among […]

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 […]