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Business

HONG KONG, June 22 -- Payment Asia, a leading payment solutions provider, today announced a strategic integration with PayMe by HSBC, Hong Kong's highly popular mobile payment application. This partnership will enable all Payment Asia merchants to accept payments from PayMe's user base of over 3.3 million, significantly expanding their market reach and providing greater convenience for customers.  This integration allows Payment Asia's merchants to seamlessly process PayMe transactions through their existing merchant applications PA Pay and Smart POS Terminals. A key feature of this integration is the provision of real-time transaction data, empowering businesses with immediate insights into their sales and operational performance. Paul Tang, Chief Operating Officer at Payment Asia, stated: "We are thrilled to partner with PayMe by HSBC, a widely adopted payment platform in Hong Kong. This integration underscores our commitment to providing innovative and comprehensive payment solutions to our merchants, not only expanding our customer base but also enhancing the overall payment experience. The real-time transaction data provided by our merchant applications and Smart POS Terminals will further equip businesses with valuable insights to make better decisions." Lawrence Li, Head of Transaction Banking and Payments, Retail Banking and Wealth Management, Hong Kong and Head of PayMe by HSBC said: "Like any forward-looking city, Hong Kong needs a robust digital payment network to support its journey toward becoming a leading smart city. Achieving this vision requires a sizable ecosystem—on both the merchant and customer sides. Through our partnership with Payment Asia, we hope to play a key role in Hong Kong's smart city development: helping merchants reach over 3.3 million PayMe users, while connecting our PayMe community to a wider network of merchants." Together, Payment Asia and PayMe will bring merchants broader customer reach, a smoother collection experience, and deeper operational data insights. Both parties are committed to continuously optimizing the payment process, helping merchants lower transaction barriers, improve checkout efficiency, and win over more consumers in today's competitive retail landscape. Going forward, Payment Asia will continue to join hands with quality partners to build a more comprehensive and intelligent payment ecosystem for Hong Kong merchants.  -- PRNewswire -- Source: Payment Asia 

Payment Asia Integrates with PayMe to Expand Merchant Payment Options

HONG KONG, June 22 -- PhotonPay, a next-generation financial operating system powered by stablecoins, achieved significant recognition at the 2026 WAVES Summit hosted by 36Kr, a pioneering platform dedicated to serving New Economy participants. PhotonPay's Founder and CEO Lewison Chen was selected for 36Kr's "2026 36Under36" Entrepreneurs List, while Sales VP Joey Xu joined a featured panel discussion to unpack the strategic resilience and high-conviction execution required to scale a business.     Visionary Leadership: Driving the Next-Generation Financial OS The annual "36Under36" list recognizes 108 young leaders driving innovation across AI, deep technology, globalization, and emerging industries. This year's cohort highlights entrepreneurs who are not simply pursuing market opportunities, but building the foundational systems that enable long-term economic transformation. For Lewison, this recognition underscores his strategic foresight in anticipating the deep structural shifts of global commerce. It validates his leadership in transitioning payments from a fragmented network of disconnected tools into an intelligent, unified operating system.   Under Lewison's guidance, PhotonPay has established a robust global footprint, expanding to 14 strategic operational hubs across major financial jurisdictions, with a team of over 500 professional employees. Through deep technical and commercial partnerships with world-leading financial institutions, global card networks and banks, the platform now supports more than 60 major currencies, with its full product suite covering over 200 countries and regions. Today, this institutional-grade infrastructure is trusted by more than 200,000 businesses worldwide to secure, manage and optimize their cross-market financial operations. Abstracting the friction of legacy global banking, PhotonPay operates as a unified financial operating system, which encapsulates multi-currency banking networks and stablecoin rails into a single, programmable infrastructure layer. Clients can run their capital workflows via an intuitive portal, or seamlessly extend these capabilities to their business applications via robust APIs. This modular OS coordinates the entire lifecycle of corporate capital, enabling multi-currency collections, real-time global payouts, card issuance, on/off-ramping, FX conversions and automated reconciliation within a secure and efficient ecosystem. "Long-term infrastructure is never built on static formulas — it's built on the conviction to turn macroeconomic uncertainty into operational certainty," said Lewison Chen, Founder and CEO of PhotonPay." Being recognized on the 36Under36 list reflects not just what PhotonPay has built, but what we believe the next generation of global financial infrastructure must become: programmable, adaptive, and borderless. We are investing heavily in our global network and technical architecture so that payments stop being a cost center and start being a strategic engine for growth." On the WAVES Stage: Redefining Capital Velocity for Global Businesses Addressing the summit's flagship panel, "Riding the Waves Before Anyone Believes," PhotonPay's Sales VP Joey Xu aligned these capabilities with real-world market execution. "Global financial giants and legacy banks established the foundational networks of digital trade," Joey noted during the discussion. "PhotonPay's mission is not to disrupt this baseline, but to provide precise ecosystem adaptation. We translate complex, fragmented global banking structures into a tailor-made financial operating system optimized for the exact workflows of international businesses." Joey highlighted that multi-market organizations routinely drain liquidity and lose days of transaction velocity when transferring funds across disconnected collection, FX, and disbursement applications. PhotonPay resolves this by enabling businesses to retain global earnings in a multi-currency wallet, allowing balances to be instantly deployed for real-time operational expenses — such as global digital ad spends or logistics payouts. Unified approach like this has allowed PhotonPay to reduce global capital costs for its clients by more than 75% while boosting treasury operational efficiency by 60%. When discussing long-term execution in a volatile market, Joey identified three core pillars of PhotonPay's operational ethos: Long Cycle: Building institutional-grade payment networks, technological foundations, and international regulatory licenses requires years of deliberate cultivation rather than reliance on short-term market trends. Granularity: Global infrastructure success depends on a meticulous focus on hyper-local compliance matrices, regional clearing frameworks, and real-time FX fluctuations. Continuous Listening: Sustainable growth relies on maintaining an ongoing dialogue with the market to capture the shifting realities of global commerce. Moving forward, PhotonPay will continue to anchor its strategy in long-term infrastructure evolution, expanding the boundaries where payment technology intersects with core corporate operations. By pioneering the convergence of traditional finance with programmable architecture, stablecoin and agentic commerce, the company aims to deliver sustained value to the global trade ecosystem. About PhotonPay PhotonPay is a stablecoin-powered financial operating system built for the stablecoin era. Designed for modern enterprises, PhotonPay enables businesses to send, receive, convert, and settle funds across both fiat and stablecoin rails through a single, compliance-first integration, spanning 200+ countries and territories. For more information, visit [www.photonpay.com]. -- PRNewswire -- Source : PhotonPay   

Scaled for Global Commerce: PhotonPay Reinforces Market Leadership at 2026 WAVES Summit

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 22 -- The encouraging response to two Islamic bond issuances by Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) totaling RM2.5 billion for energy transition projects shows that Malaysia is in a strong position to lead the financing of energy transition in the region. TNB's new Chief Energy Officer, Mohd Zarihi Mohd Hashim, said the two sukuk issuances in 2026, which included RM1 billion for a solar project in May and RM1.5 billion for a hydro project in March, were each oversubscribed five times. He said that TNB's recent experience illustrates this trend, showing that there is a huge demand from investors that is increasing regionally and globally. "This achievement shows that investors are very interested in renewable energy assets (REAs) that are well-prepared and bankable, supported by a clear structure and solid business partners," he said. Mohd Zarihi shared his views on how Malaysia can channel available funds into well-structured projects to support the country's aspirations to achieve net zero carbon emissions, at the Energy Transition Conference 2026 (ETCon26) held recently. He said the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) estimates financing needs of RM1.2 trillion to RM1.3 trillion over the next 25 years or approximately RM50 billion per year. Globally, US$2.3 trillion has been channeled into energy transition projects by 2025, demonstrating that the availability of capital is not a major constraint. Mohd Zarihi said that the panel discussion session held at ETCon26 concluded that the more pressing challenge lies in the speed and scale of project implementation. Projects require stronger preparation, clearer contractual arrangements and stable policy signals to enable capital to be invested more efficiently. Risk-sharing mechanisms, including blended financing, are expected to play an important role, especially among small developers and new technologies, he said. The encouraging response to TNB's two sukuk issuances indicates strong demand among investors. The high interest reflects the institution's confidence in the utility company's energy transition initiatives as well as NETR's target to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. Energy transition financing includes renewable energy projects such as solar and hydro, green hydrogen, carbon capture, energy efficiency, electric mobility advancements and energy-related initiatives. Mohd Zarihi said that financing for energy transition projects is growing rapidly, placing greater emphasis on whether the project can be financed by banks and is ready to receive investment capital. Commenting on Malaysia's readiness to be a leader in financing the energy transition in the region, he said that the regulatory framework and climate-related guidelines have been put in place while the capital market has shown support for transition-focused instruments. "The priority at this time is to accelerate the channeling of capital into bankable projects, resilient infrastructure and large-scale implementation that support the country's transition aspirations," he said. -- BERNAMA

Malaysia in strong position to lead energy transition financing – TNB

Technology

SEOUL, South Korea, June 22 -- Korea Deep Learning, a pioneer in enterprise-grade Document AI and vision intelligence solutions, today announced that its proprietary Document AI has secured the #1 overall ranking on ParseBench, a premier global document parsing benchmark organized by LlamaIndex.     ParseBench evaluates AI models on their ability to read, structure, and extract information from approximately 2,000 pages of complex, real-world enterprise documents across finance, insurance, and government sectors. In the latest evaluation, Korea Deep Learning ranked #1 overall in the VLM category with a score of 76.4, ahead of the next-highest-scoring models (75.0 and 67.8). The company also secured the top spot in Visual Grounding with a score of 78.8, establishing a commanding 19-point lead over the next-highest-scoring model (59.8). The win was driven by KDL-Frontier-Parser-nano, a 1.2-billion-parameter single model. Despite its compact size, it delivered superior accuracy against massive Big Tech systems at a fraction of the operational cost, proving that specialized AI tailored for business workflows can outperform broad, general-purpose LLMs. Its core edge lies in Korea Deep Learning's Near-Zero Hallucination technology, which simultaneously analyzes layout, field relationships, and spatial positioning to minimize error rates and extract data with context-aware precision. Trained on over 400 million images and documents, Korea Deep Learning's solutions support secure on-premise and SaaS deployments. Validated across major enterprise and public sectors, the technology powers administrative data restructuring for the Gyeonggi Provincial Government and serves over 80 major corporations, including Hyundai Capital and LG CNS—slashing document-processing times by up to 96%. Today's ParseBench victory builds on a consecutive string of global milestones. In March 2026, the company's proprietary Vision-Language Model, KDL Frontier, clinched the #1 spot in the English category of OCRBench v2 with a score of 68.1, outperforming other leading models. In recognition of this sustained technological leadership, Forbes Asia officially named CEO Jihyun Kim to its prestigious 2026 '30 Under 30' list in the Consumer & Enterprise Technology category last month. "Our strategy has always been to build specialized AI that decodes complex document structures as intuitively as a human, rather than focusing on massive LLMs," said Jihyun Kim, CEO of Korea Deep Learning. "This milestone validates our architecture as the most practical solution for the 'AI Agent' era, enabling autonomous decision-making and total workflow automation." Backed by an $8 million (KRW 12 billion) Series A funding round secured in December 2025 and a strategic partnership with NVIDIA, Korea Deep Learning is aggressively accelerating its global expansion into international enterprise markets. About Korea Deep Learning Founded in 2019, Korea Deep Learning is a premier vision intelligence and Document AI company developing enterprise-grade AI agents that automate document-based workflows. Its proprietary DEEP Agent platform combines advanced OCR, document parsing, and vision-language models to help organizations seamlessly extract, structure, and act on information from complex documents, images, and visual data. -- PRNewswire -- Source: Korea Deep Learning    

Korea Deep Learning Secures Back-to-Back Global AI Benchmark Wins Over Big Tech

DONGGUAN, China, June 19 -- At the HDC 2026 Global Eco Summit in Dongguan, Huawei convened global partners to explore how its innovative technologies are reshaping digital interaction and business growth. Huawei's ecosystem, driven by Petal Ads' AI and rich insights, helps brands navigate the China market through multi-dimensional analysis spanning user portraits, media journeys, and brand consideration. It provides precision access to premium segments, including 22 million annual outbound travelers—76% of whom are middle-to-high consumers with TGI scores over 110 for luxury goods and premium lifestyles. At the summit, a leading global luxury house—viewing China as its No.2 luxury market and a strategic hub for digital engagement—showcased how it used Petal Ads to target high-net-worth users, including foldable device owners. Through immersive splash screen visuals, the campaign generated tens of millions of impressions and high click-through rates, expanding into future in-store collaborations. Similarly, a Malaysia tourism board launched a 360-degree journey combining Petal Ads, KOLs, and offline flagship store activations. The campaign integrated customized watch faces featuring VM2026 mascots on Huawei wearables and real-time travel sharing via SkyTone, generating hundreds of millions of exposures. For cross-border growth, overseas partners are embedding services into Huawei's ecosystem. A premier Hong Kong ticketing platform for concerts and sports leveraged Huawei's hybrid architecture, Huawei Login, Petal Maps navigation, and SkyTone connectivity to transform standalone ticket sales into continuous travel experiences for outbound Chinese tourists. Meanwhile, Turkey's leading smart wallet, BonusFlaş, enabled contactless NFC payments on Huawei Watch 5 and GT 6 series across millions of POS terminals, streamlining transactions via its upgraded BonusFlaş 2.0 interface. Huawei remains committed to opening its ecosystem, turning cross-border challenges into collaborative growth opportunities. -- PRNewswire  -- Source: Huawei Mobile Services    

HDC 2026 Global Eco Summit: Huawei Ecosystem Fuels Partners’ Growth in China and Cross-Border Success

SINGAPORE, June 19 -- CardInfoLink has deployed Agent Gateway on Agenzo, its agentic commerce platform for travel and hospitality merchants, making it what is believed to be the first commercial deployment in Asia to operate AI agents under an independent trust and governance layer. Every AI agent connecting to CardInfoLink's merchants does so through a governed, auditable channel, on open standards, without disrupting the payment infrastructure beneath it. CardInfoLink operates live merchant-acquiring infrastructure across Asia, with more than 15 years in payment processing. Affinidi is an active contributor to the Linux Foundation and the standards bodies shaping the next wave of digital trust infrastructure.     With Agenzo, consumers can instruct AI agents to book a ride, a flight, or a hotel, confirming each purchase as they go. The Agent Gateway governs agent interactions in the background, creating a cryptographically verifiable record of all interactions and allowing only authorised agents to transact, with clear accountability established across all parties. All of this happens in the background, so the experience is unchanged for both the consumer and the merchant. For the business, the agent-readiness process is simplified for merchants by enabling faster implementation through simple configuration with no complex changes to existing systems. This allows them to open their services and products to AI agents through proper governance, and with trust handled at the system boundary rather than custom-built for every integration. As AI agents begin to act inside commercial systems, the open question is not whether they can transact but who is accountable when they do. In its 2026 Future of Fraud Forecast, Experian named the inability to distinguish legitimate agents from malicious ones as the top fraud threat to businesses this year, warning that machine-to-machine transactions are being initiated without clear ownership of liability. Gartner expects more than 40% of agentic AI projects to be cancelled by the end of 2027, citing escalating costs, unclear value, and inadequate risk controls. In January 2026, Singapore's IMDA introduced the world's first governance framework for agentic AI, calling for bounded AI agent autonomy, human accountability, and technical controls as the recommended baseline. Agent Gateway, part of the Affinidi Trust Fabric Suite, is built to meet that bar. "A shipping container reorganised global trade not because it was clever but because it was standardised. Agentic commerce needs the same: one trusted, standardised way for an AI agent to interact with a merchant. We run real infrastructure with real merchants and real consequences, so we could not add agents without it. The Agent Gateway gave us that, inside the systems we already use," said Hyman Zhu, Co-Founder of CardInfoLink. "AI Governance and payment processing are distinct problems and challenges, and they need separate infrastructure. The Agent Gateway is the layer that governs how an AI agent connects to the systems it acts on, independent of how the payment is settled. That layer has been missing from production. With CardInfoLink, it is now running, and every business putting agents to work will need it," said Glenn Gore, CEO of Affinidi. This deployment is the first live proof of an approach that the wider industry has been calling for, a layer that lets AI agents act inside real systems under governance built in from the start. For Affinidi, agentic commerce for travel and hospitality is the first commercial use of a trust layer built to span industries, from payments to healthcare and beyond. Both companies see it as the start of an agent economy that is accountable by default. About Agenzo Agenzo is the AI payment brand developed by Evonet and CardInfoLink. It focuses on helping AI agents complete payments in a safe, simple, and compliant way. Agenzo connects AI agents, merchants, wallets, payment networks, and acquirers. It allows an AI agent to understand a customer's payment intent, create an order, request payment authorisation, and complete the transaction through a trusted payment infrastructure. Agenzo has worked on agentic payment use cases such as travel booking, retail, EV charging, loyalty, QR payment, and merchant checkout. Its goal is to make AI-driven commerce easier for merchants, safer for consumers, and more practical for financial institutions and payment partners. About CardInfoLink CardInfoLink is a payment technology company founded in 2010. The company provides payment infrastructure, acquiring systems, gateway solutions, wallet technology, risk management tools, and payment security services for banks, payment institutions, merchants, and technology partners. CardInfoLink has served customers across Asia and supported many types of payment services, including card acquiring, QR payment, online payment, 3D Secure, settlement, dispute handling, and fraud prevention. Over the years, CardInfoLink has built strong experience in payment system development, cross-border payment connectivity, and financial-grade technology operations. The company continues to support banks, acquirers, PSPs, and merchants with reliable and flexible payment solutions. About Agent Gateway The Agent Gateway, part of the Affinidi Trust Fabric suite, is the trust and governance layer for agentic AI. Built on open standards to avoid vendor lock-in, it gives every AI agent a cryptographic identity, enforces policy at runtime, produces tamper-evident audit trails, and secures messaging across organisational and cloud boundaries. Agent Gateway is built for production workloads that demand multiple agentic flows within and across organisations, meeting the audit requirements of strict regulatory and governance models. Agent Gateway holds AI agents and human actors accountable, traceable, and auditable at scale, enabling businesses to extend their reach to more customers, more data, and more partners without sacrificing governance or control. To learn more, visit affinidi.com/trust-fabric. About Affinidi Affinidi is a Temasek-founded technology company building trust infrastructure for AI agents and the digital economy. Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Singapore, with teams in Bangalore and Berlin, Affinidi provides builders and organisations with the tools to enable verifiable, privacy-preserving interactions between people, businesses, and the systems that serve them. Its technology spans governance infrastructure for AI agents, verifiable credential management, trust registries, and developer tooling, all built on open standards for full interoperability, to avoid vendor lock-in. An active contributor to the Linux Foundation, W3C, and the Decentralized Identity Foundation. Visit www.affinidi.com for more information. -- PRNewswire -- Source: Affinidi

Affinidi and CardInfoLink Put the Missing Trust Layer for AI Agents into Production

Politics

KUALA LUMPUR, june 21 -- Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul confirmed that he has received a letter of notification regarding the position of Larut MP Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin as Opposition Leader. When contacted by Bernama, he also informed that the Dewan Rakyat meeting which begins tomorrow will involve several changes in the seats of MPs. This includes the seat of Pagoh Member of Parliament and Bersatu President Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, which was made at his own request. Based on the seating plan for MPs on the official Parliament website updated to June 19, Muhyiddin is currently placed in Block E in the Dewan Rakyat. Hamzah's position as Opposition Leader remains unchanged at the front row in the opposition bloc and is placed next to Kemaman Member of Parliament and Perikatan Nasional (PN) Chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar. Previously, PAS President Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang, during the Reset Malaysia Convention, announced that Hamzah would return to his duties as Opposition Leader. According to the Dewan Rakyat calendar, the Second Meeting of the Fifth Term of the 15th Parliament will take place from June 22 to July 16. -- BERNAMA

Speaker confirms Hamzah’s position, Muhyiddin’s seat changed

-- BERNAMA

Bersama to Announce Johor State Election Candidates This Friday

JOHOR BAHRU, June 21 — Deputy Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister R. Ramanan has expressed confidence in the readiness of Parti Keadilan Rakyat (KEADILAN) machinery in Kempas as preparations intensify for the upcoming Johor State Election. During a visit to the KEADILAN Main Operations Room for the Kempas state constituency, Ramanan was briefed on the party's strategic planning, campaign coordination and ongoing preparations leading up to polling day. The visit provided an opportunity for the party leader to assess the preparedness of grassroots members and election workers tasked with mobilising support in the constituency during the crucial weeks ahead. Ramanan said the briefing highlighted the commitment and dedication demonstrated by the KEADILAN Kempas team in ensuring the party is well-positioned for the state election campaign. He also took the opportunity to exchange views and share ideas with grassroots members on strengthening campaign efforts and ensuring that initiatives undertaken by the party effectively address the needs and aspirations of the people. "I would like to congratulate the entire KEADILAN Kempas team for the commitment, spirit and determination they have shown. This sense of unity is our strength as we continue the struggle to bring about positive change and champion the interests of the people," he said. Ramanan stressed the importance of teamwork and solidarity in advancing the Reformasi agenda and securing the people's mandate in Johor. He expressed confidence that through hard work, unity and unwavering commitment, KEADILAN and its allies would be able to achieve success in the state election. "We move as one team, with one heart and one determination to ensure the Reformasi agenda continues to be strengthened and receives the support of the people of Johor," he said. The Johor State Election is expected to see intense competition among political parties as campaign activities gather momentum across the state. -- MINUTESMY

Datuk R. Ramanan Commends KEADILAN Kempas Machinery Ahead of Johor Polls

World

ISTANBUL, JUNE 22 -- An explosion at a gas facility in Qatar's Ras Laffan Industrial City injured several people following a technical malfunction during operations, authorities said on Sunday. Anadolu Agency reported that Qatar's Interior Ministry said in a statement that the incident occurred at a factory in the industrial area and did not cause any dangerous leaks that threatened public safety. The Ministry informed that the relevant authorities are still continuing their efforts to deal with the incident. Meanwhile, QatarEnergy said the explosion and fire at the Barzan local gas supply facility occurred during start-up operations in the evening. The company said emergency response teams had the fire under control and promised to release more information as soon as it was available. -- BERNAMA-ANADOLU

Explosion, fire at gas facility in Qatar

ISTANBUL, JUNE 21 -- An Iranian delegation will leave for Switzerland to follow up and demand implementation of commitments by the other side, the Iranian Foreign Ministry said on Saturday, Anadolu Agency reported, citing Iran's Fars news agency. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said: "In Switzerland, we are ready to press for the implementation of the commitments of the parties on the other side and to determine how they intend to fulfill those obligations." "If some of the commitments on the other side are not implemented, this entire understanding will face difficulties," Baghaei said, adding that Washington must take appropriate steps "as soon as possible to avoid this agreement being undermined." "We did not sign this commitment so that it would not be implemented; our approach is commitment met with commitment," he stressed. The Iranian official also warned that Tehran would respond "with necessary measures" if "the other side refuses to fulfill their commitments". The ISNA news agency, citing his statement, reported that the Iranian delegation would depart "within a few hours". The spokesperson said the trip "does not mean the start of the second phase of negotiations; rather it aims to follow up on the implementation of the commitments that have been agreed." "The commitment is very clear, and the first clause of the memorandum of understanding covers the most important part of the mutual commitment between the two sides – which is to end the war on all fronts, including in Lebanon," Baghaei said. Meanwhile, the Lebanese National News Agency (NNA) reported that the death toll from Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon since early Saturday morning has risen to at least 28 people, despite the enforcement of the ceasefire and the US-Iran agreement. The country's Health Ministry announced that the number of casualties from Israeli airstrikes since Friday has risen to 83 people, while more than 140 others have been injured. Based on data from Lebanese authorities, Israeli military attacks on Lebanon since March 2 have killed at least 4,057 people, injured more than 12,000 others, and displaced more than one million people. The latest attack came after Israel's Channel 12 on Friday quoted an unnamed official as confirming that a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah had come into effect at 4pm local time (1300 GMT). A senior US official also confirmed the implementation of the ceasefire in a statement to Anadolu. On Wednesday night, Washington and Tehran electronically signed a 14-point agreement to end the war, the text of which was published by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. -- BERNAMA-ANADOLU

Iran to send delegation to Switzerland to demand US implement agreed commitments

ISTANBUL, JUNE 20 -- US President Donald Trump said Washington quietly moved at least 87 oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, under the cover of darkness, while the Iranian military was unaware of the operation, Anadolu Agency (AA) reported. "We're going to leave at 1 a.m., all the lights are out, and our navy destroyers are going to sail alongside," Trump told Axios in an interview aired Friday. Trump said the operation was possible because US forces had "destroyed" Iranian radar and defense systems before the conflict. For more than a month, he said, "no one knew" where the oil transported through the waterway came from. The statement came after weeks of disruption to global energy markets following the US-Israeli attack on Iran which began on Feb. 28. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth recently said that "Project Freedom" has successfully escorted 125 million barrels of oil through the Strait of Hormuz. In another development, speaking to US Air Force service members before departing Joint Base Andrews, Trump said the ships were sailing out of the Strait of Hormuz "like no one has ever seen before." The president reiterated that the US has "the greatest military anywhere in the world." Regarding the memorandum of understanding signed with Iran, Trump said Iran has 60 days to reach a final agreement. "We have an agreement that was signed last night. 60 days, they have to make an agreement, otherwise we will do things that will not please them. "I don't think it will get there. If we do that, then all of a sudden, you won't have oil flowing out of the strait," he said. On Wednesday, Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian electronically signed the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding aimed at ending the war between the US, Israel and Iran and halting Israel's attacks on Lebanon. -- BERNAMA-ANADOLU

The US quietly escorted 87 tankers through the Strait of Hormuz – Trump

Malaysia News

KUALA LUMPUR, June 22 -- The economic impact of trade disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and measures to improve the haj management system next year are among the key issues to be discussed on the opening day of the Second Meeting of the Fifth Session of the 15th Parliament today. According to the Order Paper on Parliament’s official website, Datuk Dr Richard Rapu @ Aman anak Begri (GPS-Betong) is scheduled to ask the Economy Minister about the latest assessment of the impact of trade disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz on local industries, especially operating costs, and the national inflation rate for the second quarter of 2026 during the questions for oral answers session. He will also ask about the contingency strategies under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) to ensure the Gross Domestic Product growth target remains sustainable in the event of a prolonged global economic recession. Onn Abu Bakar (PH-Batu Pahat) will pose a question to the Prime Minister on measures to strengthen the haj management system in 2027, particularly with regard to costs, the waiting period, and pilgrims’ welfare and health protection. Wong Shu Qi (PH-Kluang) will ask the Digital Minister whether the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance Bill currently being drafted will explicitly address the misuse of AI, including the creation of deepfake child sexual exploitation material, identity spoofing and the dissemination of explicit content without consent. Datuk Dr Radzi Jidin (PN-Putrajaya) will seek clarification from the Agriculture and Food Security Minister on the short-, medium- and long-term intervention measures that have been and will be implemented by the government to address the impact of the Middle East conflict on national food security. Also on the agenda is the tabling of the Cybercrime Bill 2026 and the Road Transport Act (Amendment) Bill 1987. The Dewan Rakyat is scheduled to sit for 16 days, until July 16. --BERNAMA

Economic Impact Of Strait Of Hormuz Disruptions Among Parliament Highlights Today

PUTRAJAYA, June 22 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today welcomed Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, who arrived in Malaysia for a two-day official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation between the two nations. Speaking in Putrajaya, Anwar expressed appreciation for Tarique's decision to choose Malaysia as his first official bilateral destination abroad since assuming office in February 2026. “The visit reflects the close friendship and longstanding trust between Malaysia and Bangladesh and is a meaningful honour for our country,” Anwar said. Upon arrival at the Perdana Putra Complex, Tarique and his delegation were accorded an official welcoming ceremony, including an inspection of a guard of honour comprising 105 personnel and three officers from the First Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment, led by Major Nur Ahmad Zaim Zahari. The visit underscores the strong and enduring relationship between Malaysia and Bangladesh, which have maintained close diplomatic and economic ties over the years. Anwar noted that the official visit is expected to further enhance bilateral relations and create new opportunities for collaboration in areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment, labour, education, and regional cooperation. The two leaders are expected to hold discussions on a range of issues aimed at deepening cooperation and strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries. Tarique's visit marks an important milestone in Malaysia-Bangladesh relations and highlights the shared commitment of both governments to advancing mutual prosperity and regional stability. -- MINUTESMY

PM Anwar Welcomes Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Official Visit to Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 22 -- Police arrested 349 individuals in 235 raids and inspections through Op Cantas Bersepadu at business premises, residences and construction project sites in Selangor. Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Director Datuk M. Kumar said that those arrested in the four-day operation starting last Thursday consisted of 280 men and 69 women aged between 20 and 83, including 85 foreigners. "Five of those arrested are on the list of wanted persons under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA) while another 34 are wanted for violent crimes and property crimes," he said in a statement on Sunday. He said investigations were being conducted against the 349 individuals, covering various offences under the Penal Code, Immigration Act 1959/63, Secondhand Dealers Act 1946, Societies Act 1966 and Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. Kumar said the operation, which was carried out with strategic cooperation from the Criminal Investigation Department, Special Branch, Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department and Bukit Aman Air Operations Force, the Malaysian Immigration Department and local authorities, focused on tracking and arresting individuals listed as wanted persons. He said the operation also aimed to track down identified organised crime groups, including crippling financial sources through enforcement actions against premises suspected of being a source of funding for the group's activities. Kumar said that in the same operation, two entertainment centres inspected were found to be operating without an entertainment licence, while 13 business premises were believed to be employing foreign workers without valid passes or permits. "Compound actions have been issued by local authorities against business owners who committed various license-related offenses," he said. The success of the operation, he said, proves the police's continued commitment in strengthening efforts to prevent and combat crime, especially involving organised criminal activities through the cooperation of various enforcement agencies. He also called on the public to continue to provide information regarding criminal activities to help strengthen prevention and suppression efforts for the well-being of society. -- BERNAMA

Integrated Op Cantas: 349 individuals including wanted persons arrested in Selangor

KUCHING, June 22 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to Sarawak’s development and praised the state’s role as a future energy powerhouse during a Gawai Dayak celebration dinner attended by leaders and communities from diverse backgrounds in Kuching on Sunday night. The event was also attended by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Hajjah Fauziah Mohd Sanusi. Anwar said that since assuming office, he has made it a priority to attend both the Gawai Dayak and Kaamatan celebrations annually, describing them as important symbols of Malaysia’s unity in diversity. He noted that Gawai Dayak embodies Sarawak’s spirit of harmony and inclusiveness, highlighting the state's “Segulai Sejalai” philosophy as a foundation for strengthening understanding, friendship and cooperation among people of different races and cultures. The Prime Minister also highlighted the progress achieved under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), saying the MADANI Government has successfully implemented several long-standing matters that had previously remained unresolved. While acknowledging that some issues still require careful negotiations and detailed consideration, Anwar said the strong relationship built on trust, friendship and mutual understanding between the Federal Government and the Sarawak Government has enabled significant progress to be made. Among the key achievements, he cited the transfer of the Bintulu Port to the Sarawak Government as an important step reflecting confidence in the state's ability to manage its own strategic assets. “I believe that when a state is governed effectively, led by capable leaders who understand the principles of good governance, the benefits will be visible and felt by the people,” he said. Anwar also reiterated Sarawak’s growing importance in the global energy sector, revealing that he has consistently highlighted the state’s vast potential during meetings with world leaders and major industry players, including during his recent visits to Russia, Turkmenistan and Japan. He said Sarawak possesses significant advantages and has the potential to emerge as one of the leading energy hubs in the region. On the ongoing relationship between national oil company PETRONAS and Sarawak-owned PETROS, Anwar said he and Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg agreed that all remaining issues should be resolved fairly and equitably through a spirit of teamwork and cooperation. He stressed that close collaboration between both companies is crucial to enhancing the prosperity and standing of both Sarawak and Malaysia. “It can be done, it has been done, and it must be done,” Anwar said. The Prime Minister further assured Sarawakians that the Federal Government would continue contributing to the state's development agenda. “We are one team. We work together and we achieve success together,” he said, expressing hope that ongoing efforts would help Malaysia, including Sarawak, continue to grow as a peaceful, just and prosperous nation that benefits all its people. Anwar concluded by extending Gawai Dayak greetings to the people of Sarawak, wishing them prosperity, happiness and harmony as they celebrate the harvest festival. -- MINUTESMY

PM Anwar Reaffirms Commitment to Sarawak Development at Gawai Dayak Celebration

IPOH, JUNE 21 -- Police have closed five zones in the disaster area affected by the storm around Bercham and restricted movement in and out to prevent property theft or break-ins to victims' homes in the area. Ipoh District Police Chief Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Muhammad Najib Hamzah said his department was, however, giving flexibility to residents who wanted to go out and enter the affected areas because they wanted to clean the areas around their homes at night. "We will be stricter (restricting movement) at night because there are areas that are affected, including Anjung Bercham, which still has no electricity supply. "If a resident wants to clean their house or belongings at night, we will monitor them. We will ask them if it is really their house because we are also worried that there will be incidents if they clean but in fact they are stealing," he said at a press conference after inspecting the Crime Scene Control Post (PKTK) at Bercham Police Station, here, today. He said that as of 8 am this morning, his department had received 492 reports regarding storm incidents that occurred through Op Bencana and there was no time limit for any victim to make a report. Meanwhile, Muhammad Najib said that so far the value of losses in areas affected by the storm has not yet been determined. Yesterday, Ipoh Barat Member of Parliament M Kulasegaran was reported to have said that the storm that occurred last Friday was considered unusual, affecting more than 200 houses in five areas around Bercham. Kulasegaran, who is also Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform), said the incident, which had never been reported before, was believed to be caused by the 'land-trunk' phenomenon. Among the areas affected are Anjung Bercham Utara, Taman Mujur, Kampung Bercham, Kampung Tersusun Tasek, Taman Pusat Bercham and Taman Indah Sakti. -- BERNAMA

Storm-affected areas in Bercham closed, movement restricted – Police

BINTULU, June 21 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today announced that the price of subsidised diesel for Malaysians will be reduced to RM2.10 per litre beginning in July, in a move aimed at easing the cost of living burden on the people. Speaking at an event in Bintulu, Anwar said the reduced diesel price would be implemented nationwide through the use of MyKad, ensuring that the subsidy reaches eligible Malaysian citizens directly. The Prime Minister said the decision reflects the MADANI Government’s commitment to returning the benefits of economic reforms, investment growth and improved national revenues to the rakyat. “Although the world continues to face challenges arising from the global supply crisis, the government has chosen to channel the gains from economic growth back to the people,” he said. Anwar also reaffirmed that the price of RON95 petrol would remain unchanged at RM1.99 per litre. The announcement comes as the government continues efforts to strengthen targeted subsidy mechanisms while protecting the welfare of ordinary Malaysians amid global economic uncertainties. Anwar added that further details on the implementation of the diesel subsidy programme will be announced by Finance Minister II tomorrow. The diesel price reduction is expected to benefit millions of Malaysians and forms part of the government’s broader strategy to balance fiscal reforms with direct assistance for the people. -- MINUTESMY

PM Anwar Announces Subsidised Diesel Price Cut to RM2.10 Per Litre From July

KOTA TINGGI, JUNE 21 -- The Malaysian Army (TDM) has temporarily suspended all training involving the use of hand grenades following an explosion that killed two of its members during a training session at Hobart Camp, Kedah, recently. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the suspension order was effective immediately until the investigation board completed a thorough investigation into the exact cause of the incident. He said the move was important to enable a reassessment of the standard operating procedures (SOP) for handling weapons and managing the security forces' training. "As a result of the incident, the Army has issued an order to suspend all training involving the use of grenades until the investigation is complete. We want to know why this situation could have happened. "What went wrong there, that is what needs to be investigated. According to technical guidelines, when the pin is pulled out, it must be thrown away within seven seconds," he told reporters after attending a free fuel filling programme at BHPetrol Felda Air Tawar 2, here, today. Mohamed Khaled said he refused to make any initial speculation regarding the cause of the incident and chose to leave it entirely to the investigation process. He said the scope of the investigation would include various aspects including technical evaluation of the weapons as well as the emotional state and readiness of the members during the training. "I don't want to make any assumptions, let's investigate first. When the report is complete, we will see where the weaknesses are to be improved, including looking at the condition of the members involved during the training. "I have requested that this investigation be expedited and that the full report be submitted directly to me as soon as it is completed," he said. Meanwhile, Mohamed Khaled also expressed his condolences to the families of the two soldiers who were killed. On June 16, two TDM members, Private Siti Khadijah Sungip, 24, and Corporal Norazmi Abu Bakar, 40, were confirmed dead while on their way to the Sultan Abdul Halim Hospital (HSAH), Sungai Petani, Kedah due to serious injuries following the explosion. -- BERNAMA

Army postpones grenade training, investigation into explosion incident expedited – Mohamed Khaled

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 21 -- Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will pay an official visit to Malaysia on Monday to strengthen the close bilateral relations between the two countries and deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest. The visit was at the invitation of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and was Tarique's first official bilateral visit abroad since taking office in February 2026. According to the Malaysian Foreign Ministry, Tarique will be felicitated at an official reception, followed by a bilateral meeting with Anwar at the Perdana Putra Complex, Putrajaya. "Both leaders are expected to assess the development of Malaysia-Bangladesh bilateral relations and explore further cooperation, particularly in key sectors including trade and investment, human resource management, semiconductors, energy, agriculture and education, in addition to exchanging views on regional and international issues of mutual interest," the statement said. They will also witness the exchange of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cultural Cooperation, as well as two Exchanges of Diplomatic Notes (EoN) in the areas of Counter-Terrorism Research and in the areas of Investment Promotion and Facilitation. Anwar will also celebrate Rahman at an official luncheon. According to the ministry, also known as Wisma Putra, Rahman will be accompanied by his wife Dr. Zubaida Rahman, Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman and senior government officials throughout the visit. In 2025, total trade between Malaysia and Bangladesh will reach RM12.18 billion (US$ 2.84 billion). Malaysia's total exports to Bangladesh amounted to RM10.08 billion (US$2.35 billion) with petroleum products being the main item. Total imports from Bangladesh amounted to RM2.10 billion (US$ 0.50 billion) and were largely contributed by textiles, clothing and footwear. Bangladesh is Malaysia's 28th largest trading partner with total trade of RM12.18 billion. Bangladesh is also Malaysia's second largest trading partner, export destination and import source in the South Asian region after India, according to the statement. -- BERNAMA

Bangladesh PM makes first official visit to Malaysia

SEREMBAN, JUNE 21 -- Police arrested 10 men, including four drunk drivers and one who tested positive for drugs, in an Integrated Operation, Ops Samseng and Ops Samseng Jalanan, which was carried out in several locations around the district early this morning. Seremban District Police Chief ACP Mohd Yatim Osman said the operation carried out by the Seremban IPD Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Division (BSPT) from 5pm yesterday to 4am this morning also resulted in the arrest of five individuals believed to be involved in street gang activities. He said 115 individuals and 105 vehicles were checked during the operation at four main locations, namely Jalan Sungai Ujong, Jalan Lingkaran Tengah, Jalan Bukit Kepayang and Jalan Rasah, involving three officers and 24 police personnel. "During the operation, we arrested four men who were driving under the influence of alcohol, one who tested positive for THC and five men believed to be involved in street gangs, all aged between 19 and 30. "As a result of this operation, 78 summonses were issued for various traffic offences, with the highest offence involving no driving licence in 20 cases, followed by expired motor vehicle licences in 15 cases and no insurance cover in eight cases," he said in a statement today. Mohd Yatim said that for Ops Samseng Jalanan, they will be investigated under Section 42(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for reckless and dangerous riding. Four drivers who were arrested for drunk driving are being investigated under Section 45A(1) of the same act after being found to have driven above the permitted alcohol limit, in addition to opening an investigation paper under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 against individuals who tested positive for drugs. Five motorcycles were also seized under Section 64(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. -- BERNAMA

Drunk driver, positive for drugs among those arrested in Integrated Ops in Seremban

SABAK BERNAM, JUNE 21 -- A total of 32,461 members of the National Information Dissemination Centre (NADI) from 13 NADI centres in this district will act as community agents and ambassadors who act as liaisons between the government and the local community. Selangor Tourism and Local Government Exco Datuk Ng Sue Lim said that apart from helping to deliver the latest information to residents in rural areas, the individuals involved also played a role in spreading digital safety messages. "I really welcome this approach in the form of a community program because the Internet safety message can be delivered in a relaxed, interactive and easy-to-understand atmosphere." "What is even more impressive is that programs like this show that efforts to strengthen digital security are not only concentrated in big cities, but are also expanded to the grassroots level so that the benefits can be enjoyed by all levels of society," he said. He said this when speaking at the opening of the Selamat Sabak Bernam Internet Campaign Mini Carnival here today. Ng said cyberspace now brings complex challenges, particularly involving online crimes, including fraud that targets those who are less knowledgeable and aware of the criminal tactics involved. He said that digital development cannot be solely focused on providing infrastructure and Internet access, but rather needs to be balanced with efforts to strengthen security and digital literacy so that society can utilize technology wisely, safely and responsibly. “In today's digital world, threats no longer come face-to-face. They can come through seemingly convincing messages, seemingly legitimate links, or content shared without prior verification. "Therefore, society needs to always be vigilant, think critically and practice safer and more ethical use of the Internet," he said. Earlier, Ng officiated the Selamat Sabak Bernam Internet Campaign Mini Carnival organised by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) with the objective of strengthening public awareness of online safety and promoting safe and responsible use of the Internet. The program, which brought together approximately 300 participants from the local community, included briefing sessions on safe Internet as well as Online Content and User Responsibility. -- BERNAMA

Over 30,000 NADI members mobilized in Sabak Bernam, helping spread digital safety messages

“The central government is leaking Johor's revenue”: TMJ strongly criticizes the issue of financial sharing --MINUTESMY

TMJ Questions Federal Revenue Distribution, Says Johor Deserves Larger Share

JOHOR BAHRU: A total of 13,425 employers in Johor have registered under the Human Resources Development Corporation Berhad (HRD Corp) ecosystem as of last year, thus providing direct training benefits to 479,905 workers in the state. Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said the high commitment of the industrial sector also saw levy collections reaching RM208.21 million recorded, with RM183.96 million being channelled back to employers for the purpose of implementing employee training. He said that RM191.5 million in financial assistance had also been channeled by the agency under the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA), which successfully trained 232,072 people in Johor to strengthen the competitiveness of the local workforce. "However, for me, the real success is not the amount of money spent but the long-term benefits received by the people of Johor. KESUMA through its agency is also always committed to helping gig workers improve their skills and strengthen their career future," he said. He said this when speaking at the HRD Corp "Pocket Talk" Tour Series - From Policy to People at the Johor state level at Starhill Golf & Country Club, Kempas here yesterday. Ramanan said strengthening local talent was critical to supporting various strategic investments that were rapidly growing in the state, especially in meeting the needs of highly skilled manpower for the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). The "Pocket Talk" Tour Series is a field initiative by KESUMA and HRD Corp to ensure that all information, training assistance funds and upskilling opportunities from the government can be delivered directly to the community at the grassroots level. -- BERNAMA

Over 13,000 employers in Johor joined HRD Corp ecosystem last year

SEREMBAN, June 21 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed that leadership is a responsibility to serve the people sincerely, stressing that the nation's real challenges stem from corruption, abuse of power, and those who seek to sow division among Malaysians. Speaking after attending the Rimbunan Hati Dinner Ceremony organised by the Five Generations Organization (PLG) Malaysia in Seremban on Saturday night, Anwar reflected on his recent overseas engagements and his continued commitment to safeguarding the country's future. The Prime Minister said he had recently concluded official visits to Russia and Turkmenistan, where he held a series of important meetings aimed at strengthening Malaysia's long-term interests, particularly in the energy sector amid growing global uncertainties and challenges. Despite returning to Malaysia at approximately 3.30 am, Anwar immediately resumed his official duties in Penang before travelling to Seremban for the event. "Exhaustion is nothing compared to the trust placed upon us to ensure our children inherit a peaceful, stable country and a better future," he said. Anwar also underscored the importance of integrity and public service, noting that leadership should never be driven by status or personal pride. "I believe leadership is not about position or pride. It is a responsibility to serve sincerely, care for the interests of the people, and do the best for the sake of our beloved country," he said. Addressing issues of national unity, the Prime Minister stressed that Malaysia's true challenges are not differences in race or religion but corruption, moral decay, and efforts to incite hatred and racism. He said Malaysia's greatest strength lies in the ability of its diverse communities to live in harmony, respect one another, and work together toward a shared future. Anwar also expressed his appreciation to long-time friends and supporters who have remained steadfast throughout his political journey, thanking them for their friendship, prayers, and unwavering support. He expressed hope that the spirit of ukhuwah, or brotherhood, would continue to strengthen collective efforts in serving religion, the nation, and Malaysia. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

Leadership Is About Service, Not Position or Pride – PM Anwar Ibrahim

BUTTERWORTH, JUNE 20 -- Newly appointed Malaysian Media Council (MMC) chairman Tan Sri Nallini Pathmanathan believes that her decades of experience in the judiciary can help the council build credibility, defend freedom and gain the people's trust. Responding to a question about the selection of a former judge to lead the media self-regulatory body, Nallini said the effectiveness of the council did not depend on power, but rather on its ability to gain confidence through the principles of justice and independence. "I am not a journalist. I have never run a newsroom, determined front pages or worked to deadlines to complete an assignment for the news desk," he said at a Media Dialogue Session with Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, here, today. However, the former Federal Court Judge said his experience in the judicial institution equipped him with the skills to defend the independence of the council, ensure a fair process and maintain public confidence in every decision made. "The main thing I can bring to this table is justice between parties who have no vested interest, decided based on evidence and explained openly with reasonable reasons," he said. Nallini said the Malaysian Media Council Act itself clearly stipulates that its chairman must be independent of political influence, the civil service and the legislature, thus reflecting the need for a neutral figure who is able to gain the trust of all stakeholders. He said that while editors and journalists remain experts in reporting and newsroom operations, the council's role is to strengthen the media ecosystem through authoritative standards, effective complaints mechanisms and fair dispute resolution. Commenting on the direction of the MMC, Nallini said that among his main priorities was to ensure that the council's basic structure was built based on the principles of justice and accountability. “My priority is on quality and fairness in our own processes, including our code of ethics, complaints mechanisms and how we reach and explain decisions. "These early months are actually the phase of building the constitution of this institution. If we can lay the right foundation such as fundamental justice, balanced considerations and reasons that can be scrutinized, the position of this council will be built on its own," he said. He said the second principle that needs to be applied is that independent media must also be responsible, while responsible media must be protected from pressure, harassment, misuse of names and manipulation. "Freedom and responsibility are not two opposing things, but rather complement each other in building trust," he said. In this regard, Nallini said the MMC has identified three immediate priorities, namely establishing a fair and efficient complaints and adjudication framework, expanding membership in the industry, and addressing new challenges including fake content and the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI). "This council will only benefit the government, industry and society as long as it is not owned by any party." "This kind of freedom cannot be declared just through speech, but must be proven through every decision and our willingness to differ from any party. That is the standard we want to uphold," he said. At the same time, he stressed that the council's complaints mechanism should not be used as a tool to silence journalists because courageous reporting, challenging authorities and raising difficult questions are not problems that need to be fixed, but rather an important role of the independent media. "This council will uphold standards, but we will always ensure that efforts to uphold those standards are not abused to the point of hindering journalism, which is so necessary in a democracy," he said. Also present at the dialogue session held in conjunction with the celebration of National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2026 were the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Communications Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah and Deputy Secretary-General (Strategic Communications and Creative Industries) Datuk Bahria Mohd Tamil. Also present were Bernama Chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai; Bernama Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the HAWANA 2026 Working Committee Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin; Bernama Editor-in-Chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, as well as senior management of local media organisations. -- BERNAMA

Judicial experience helps strengthen MMC’s credibility – Nallini

BUTTERWORTH, JUNE 20 -- Timor-Leste has requested Malaysia's assistance to facilitate collaboration with Google to establish the technology company's official presence in the country, thus making it easier for local digital content creators to generate income and develop the country's creative economy. Timor-Leste's Secretary of State for Social Communications Expedito Loro Dias Ximenes said the lack of official representation of Google and YouTube in the country was one of the main challenges preventing local content creators from generating income through the platform's monetization programs. "The Minister (Communications Datuk Fahmi Fadzil) has already promised to help us (Timor-Leste) to send Google experts to Timor-Leste so they can talk to us," he told Bernama. Before that, he had a meeting with Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil on the sidelines of the National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2026 summit, which was held at the PICCA Convention Centre @ Butterworth Arena here on Saturday. Meanwhile, Ximenes said Malaysia and Timor-Leste also agreed to strengthen media cooperation through the sharing of news, photos and multimedia content, as well as journalism training and journalist exchange programmes. The Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) and the Timor-Leste news agency, Agência Noticiosa de Timor-Leste (TATOLI), have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen media cooperation between the two ASEAN member countries. The MOU was signed by the Chief Executive Officer of Bernama Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin and TATOLI President Noémio Mateus Soares Falcão on behalf of their respective agencies, recently. "The Minister and I have both agreed to continue our cooperation following the MOU exchanged today between TATOLI, Timor-Leste and Bernama through the sharing of content and training for journalists, journalists from Timor-Leste to Malaysia and Malaysia to Timor-Leste," he said. He said the collaboration was also hoped to be expanded to the broadcasting sector through a partnership between Rádio e Televisão de Timor-Leste and Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM). "The minister immediately called his director general (Ashwad Ismail) to provide information to establish cooperation in the near future," he said. Ximenes is in Malaysia with the Timor-Leste delegation including President TATOLI and his Deputy Madalena DE JCP Carlos to attend the HAWANA 2026 summit. The sixth edition of HAWANA brought together approximately 1,000 local and foreign media practitioners under the theme "Media with Integrity, Core Credibility", and was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. -- BERNAMA

Timor-Leste requests Malaysia’s help to withdraw Google’s presence

KLANG, JUNE 20 -- Negotiations between the Malaysian and Thai governments involving the issue of the temporary suspension of shrimp imports are being carried out intensively, said Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu. He said discussions between the two countries were leading to the best solution that could safeguard the interests of all parties. "We are still at the negotiation stage and this matter has also received the attention of the Prime Minister. So, intensive discussions are being held to find the best solution." "We are trying to defend the country's rights and interests while their side will explain matters related to fish and shrimp exports to Malaysia," he said at a press conference after opening the Road To MAHA 2026 program at the Central Zone level here today. Meanwhile, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM), Datuk Seri Isham Ishak, when commenting on the questionnaire response sent by the ministry to Thailand, said Malaysia had received the response and it was currently in the evaluation process. "The feedback has been received. What needs to be done now is to assess, verify and audit the information provided to meet all the country's biosecurity requirements and conditions," he said when met at the same event. Previously, the media reported that Malaysia was awaiting a response from Thailand on a questionnaire regarding shrimp imports before assessing the country's level of compliance with biosecurity aspects following the temporary suspension of the import of five species of shrimp from the country. Fisheries Director-General Datuk Adnan Hussain reportedly said that the Ministry of Fisheries had asked Thailand to respond to a questionnaire sent through the Malaysian agricultural representative office in Bangkok. On May 16, Malaysia tightened controls on the import of fishery products from Thailand through the enforcement of CoA requirements for sea bass as well as a temporary ban on five species of shrimp starting June 1. The temporary restrictions involve the species Penaeus esculentus (brown tiger shrimp), Fenneropenaeus merguiensis (red/white leg shrimp), Penaeus vannamei (white lutz shrimp), Penaeus monodon (tiger shrimp) and Penaeus stylirostris (blue shrimp). Following this, Thailand is reported to be ready to raise the issue of Malaysia's temporary suspension of imports of five species of shrimp from the country at the World Trade Organization (WTO) and ASEAN forums if bilateral negotiations fail to resolve the issue. -- BERNAMA

Thai shrimp issue being discussed intensively – Mohamad Sabu

KLANG, JUNE 20 -- The National Food Security Act is expected to be tabled in Parliament next year, said Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu. He said the drafting of the act, which among other things aims to ensure the stability of the country's food supply, is currently being detailed before it can be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat. "Our Food Security Act is being drafted now and it is chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, and we are discussing that, God willing, it will be presented next year," he said. He said this at a press conference after the Opening Ceremony of the Road To MAHA 2026 Central Zone Programme, here today. Previously, Mohamad was reported to have said that the matter needed to be expedited to ensure the country's food supply was secured following the threat of the El Nino phenomenon and climate change which risked threatening the local food production sector. He said the act would ensure that the country had an early warning system, an automated preparedness plan and a more effective aid distribution mechanism for the food production sector. -- BERNAMA

Food Security Act expected to be tabled next year – Mohamad Sabu

BUTTERWORTH, JUNE 20 -- The appointment of former Federal Court Judge Tan Sri Nallini Pathmanathan as Chairman of the Malaysian Media Council (MMM) is hoped to give the council a new image and confidence. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Nallini's appointment was done seriously, involving individuals with a background and record in the judiciary and integrity. "The main thing is that (he) has unquestionable qualifications and he will help give a new image and confidence to this event. We and our friends are praying (for his success)," he said. Anwar said this when speaking at the opening of the National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2026 Summit here today. The ceremony was also attended by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. Also present were Secretary-General of the Ministry of Communications Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah and Deputy Secretary-General (Strategic Communications and Creative Industries) of the Ministry of Communications Datuk Bahria Mohd Tamil. Also present were Chairman of the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, Bernama Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the HAWANA 2026 Working Committee Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, Bernama Editor-in-Chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj and Nallini. The Prime Minister at the same time congratulated Nallini on her appointment as MMM Chairman. Nallini's appointment was unanimously approved by the Malaysian Media Council Board members at a meeting held on May 26. Established under the Malaysian Media Council Act 2025, MMM is a self-regulatory body for the media industry whose role is to strengthen journalistic standards, operate a public complaints mechanism related to the media, promote ethical practices and defend media freedom as an essential foundation of democracy. -- BERNAMA

Nallini’s appointment gives image, confidence to Malaysian Media Council – PM Anwar

Malaysia wishes to establish closer media cooperation with Timor-Leste – YB Datuk Fahmi

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim

Obtaining gas wells in Turkmenistan reflects confidence in Malaysia’s capabilities – PM Anwar

JOHOR BAHRU, JUNE 20 -- The Southern Shuttle service using diesel trains is an interim measure while waiting for the arrival of the new electric multiple unit (EMU) trains, to ensure that the people in this state do not have to wait long. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the Ministry of Transport (MOT) has provided subsidies of between RM11 million and RM15 million per year so that more people can enjoy the benefits of rail-based public transport. "Therefore, we have two options, either wait two to three years for the 10 new EMU train sets to be completed or use the existing trains now so that the people of Johor don't have to wait any longer. "...the new EMU train will arrive in due course. But as long as the people can use this service now, there is no reason to wait," he said in a post on his Facebook page today. He explained that the diesel train would no longer be needed when the Gemas-JB electric double-track project was completed and would be replaced by an electric train service (ETS) for the route. The Southern Shuttle service connecting Kulai, JB Sentral and Pasir Gudang offers a faster and more comfortable travel alternative to users, with the journey from Kulai to JB Sentral taking around 40 minutes, while the journey from Kempas Baru to Pasir Gudang takes around 40 to 45 minutes. He said the Kempas Baru–Pasir Gudang route, which was previously only used for cargo, has now been opened to passengers for the first time. Previously, there were those who questioned the service using old trains and diesel fuel with fares allegedly three times more expensive than in Kuala Lumpur and Seremban. -- NAMED

Southern Shuttle uses diesel while waiting for new EMU trend to arrive – Loke

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 20 -- The journalism profession continues to play an important role in ensuring that the public receives accurate information even though the media landscape is rapidly evolving due to advances in digital technology and social media, said social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye. In conjunction with the National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2026 celebration in Penang today, he said journalists now operate in a fast-moving digital environment and are heavily influenced by social media when inaccurate information, fake news and rumours can spread quickly. Lam Thye said that although social media allows news to be delivered to the public instantly, it also makes the journalism profession more challenging as journalists are increasingly required to verify information circulating online. "A large part of a journalist's job today involves the process of examining various content to distinguish between fact and fiction and ensure that the public knows the truth." " They also face constant pressure to attract readers and increase viewership, often with more limited resources and shorter time frames," he said in a statement today. Elaborating further, Lam Thye said journalism has undergone significant changes since the early days of the profession when journalists relied on notebooks, pens and landline phones to obtain information and had more time to research, verify facts and refine their reports. Apart from that, he said journalists also build strong personal relationships with sources of information and focus on accuracy and delivering stories in detail and meaningfully, while news editors play an important role in shaping reports before publication. "Back then, there were only typewriters, notebooks and landline phones. With more time to research, verify information and edit their work, journalists were able to ensure that every report was completely accurate and reliable," he said. Lam Thye said the research process at that time often involved searching through archived newspaper clippings since internet search engines did not yet exist. Although the way news is produced and distributed has undergone major transformations, he said the fundamental purpose of journalism remains unchanged. "Whether writing for a traditional newspaper or posting developments on social media, the most important responsibility of a good journalist remains the same, which is to convey the truth and ensure that the public always receives accurate information," he said. The social activist also expressed his appreciation to veteran journalists who helped develop the country's media industry, as well as expressing his appreciation to the current generation of journalists for their continued commitment in delivering news to the people. "This weekend, we would like to express our appreciation and pay tribute to veteran journalists who laid the foundation of the country's media industry. We also express our gratitude and appreciation to the journalists today for their hard work every day to bring us the news we need. Thank you for all your services and sacrifices," he said. -- BERNAMA

Journalism continues to play an important role despite changing media landscape – Lam Thye

KUALA LUMPUR, June 20 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has safely returned to Malaysia from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, early this morning following his official visit to the Central Asian nation. In a brief statement shared on social media, Anwar expressed gratitude for his safe return and announced that he would immediately resume his official responsibilities in Penang. “Alhamdulillah, I have safely arrived in my homeland early this morning from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. Today, I resume my duty in Penang for some official events, God willing,” he said. The Prime Minister’s visit to Turkmenistan was aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and exploring new opportunities for cooperation in strategic sectors between the two countries. Anwar is scheduled to attend several official programmes in Penang as part of his ongoing duties under the Malaysia MADANI agenda.   -- MINUTESMY  -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM 

PM Anwar Returns Safely from Turkmenistan, Resumes Official Duties in Penang

PUTRAJAYA, June 20 (Bernama) -- Malaysia recorded a 14.44 per cent increase in horseshoe crab landings over a three-year period, reflecting the continued resilience of its coastal ecosystems in supporting the survival of this ancient and high-value marine species. The Department of Fisheries Malaysia (DOF) said the total landings of horseshoe crabs increased from 232.80 tonnes in 2023 to 266.42 tonnes in 2025, while their wholesale market value climbed 9.32 per cent to RM2.68 million, compared with RM2.45 million over the same period. Director-General of Fisheries Datuk Adnan Hussain said horseshoe crabs are a treasure trove of the country’s marine biodiversity, with high strategic value not only to coastal ecosystems but also to the fields of bioscience and biomedicine. “The increase in horseshoe crab landings shows that the country’s coastal ecosystems are still capable of supporting the survival of the species. “However, pressure on natural habitats from development, pollution and overexploitation requires more integrated and continuous conservation action,” he said in a statement in conjunction with World Horseshoe Crab Day 2026, here today. The DOF said that although horseshoe crabs account for only around 0.019 per cent of total capture fisheries landings in the country, the species carries premium value and has the potential to generate additional income for coastal fishing communities. Known as a “living fossil”, the horseshoe crab has existed on Earth for more than 400 million years and holds significant value in biomedicine through its blue blood, which contains amebocyte lysate, an essential component used in the safety testing of vaccines and medicines to detect bacterial contamination. According to the DOF, Malaysia plays an important role in the conservation of the species as it is home to three of the world’s four horseshoe crab species, namely Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda, Tachypleus gigas and Tachypleus tridentatus. The department said that despite positive trends in landing data, the horseshoe crab population still faces multiple threats, including habitat destruction from coastal development, plastic waste pollution and uncontrolled egg harvesting activities. In this regard, the DOF said it will continue to strengthen conservation efforts through enforcement, scientific research, juvenile release programmes and the gazetting of breeding areas as protected zones. The department also urged the community to work together to preserve coastal ecosystems and mangrove forests, as efforts to protect horseshoe crabs are not only important for maintaining the balance of marine biodiversity but also reflect the country’s commitment to conserving natural resources for future generations. -- BERNAMA

Malaysia Sees 14.44 Pct Increase In Horseshoe Crab Landings

KUALA LUMPUR, June 20 -- Algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI) are not a threat to journalism but a new challenge that media organisations must understand to ensure credible news continues to reach the public. Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) Social Communication lecturer and Media and Information Psychological Warfare analyst, Dr Ahmad Sauffiyan Abu Hasan said media organisations should embrace the technology to expand the reach of accurate reporting and foster more positive public perceptions. “The challenge for the media today is understanding how algorithms work and how they can help widen the dissemination of news. “If credible news does not reach the public, that space will be filled by information that may not be accurate,” he said when appearing as a guest on Bernama TV’s Ruang Bicara programme titled ‘Berita sebagai Kompas Persepsi’ at Wisma Bernama last night. He said algorithms play a significant role in determining the content users receive based on their interactions on digital platforms. As such, media organisations need to strengthen their content strategies by incorporating visual elements, short videos and storytelling techniques that align with current algorithm trends. “We can no longer simply publish news on a website and leave it there. Media organisations need to distribute content more actively on social media using visuals and other tools so algorithms can deliver it to the intended audience,” he said. On the use of AI in journalism, Ahmad Sauffiyan said the technology could help streamline newsroom processes and improve efficiency. However, he cautioned against overreliance on AI, stressing that journalists must continue to exercise their own judgement. “AI can help, but we cannot hand everything over to technology. Decisions and assessments must still come from journalists,” he said. He also urged media organisations to uphold the principles of ethical journalism by ensuring information is fact-based, balanced and free from bias in order to maintain public trust. -- BERNAMA

Understanding Algorithms Key To Delivering Credible News – Expert

SHAH ALAM, JUNE 20 -- The Selangor State Government continues to expand access to affordable healthcare through a network of hospitals under Selgate Healthcare (Selgate) to help the people cope with rising medical costs and insurance premiums. Selangor Public Health and Environment Exco, Jamaliah Jamaluddin said that Selgate Specialist Hospital Rawang, which was launched last May, is now involved in the Hospital Services Outsourcing Program (HSOP), which allows certain patients to be referred to private hospitals for treatment. He said the move would not only provide patients with faster access to treatment, but also help reduce pressure and congestion at public health facilities. "The Selangor State Government is strengthening collaboration between Selgate with insurance companies, Takaful, third party administrators (TPA) and the corporate sector to ensure that the treatment price structure remains affordable, especially for the B40 and M40 groups," he told Bernama. Jamaliah said that Iltizam Selangor Sihat (ISS) benefit holders can also obtain treatment for illnesses and services covered under the programme through the Selgate ecosystem. He said the integration between Selcare Management Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the state government, and the SELangkah application allows the registration process, verification of eligibility and management of health benefits to be carried out more efficiently. "The state government's goal is to ensure that the people not only receive health assistance, but can access these benefits easily when they need treatment," he said. Meanwhile, the head of the Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Prof Dr Mohd Arshil Moideen described the affordable private hospital model introduced by Selgate as an intervention measure that has the potential to bridge the gap in people's ability to obtain treatment as medical costs and insurance premiums continue to rise. He said the initiative could also be a short-term solution to help reduce congestion at government hospitals, but more formal integration between the public and private sectors needed to be strengthened to ensure more comprehensive benefits. "Through the targeted service purchasing method by the Ministry of Health (MOH), public funds can be used to finance certain procedures for B40 patients in hospitals such as Selgate, thus helping to reduce congestion in government hospitals more effectively," he said. Mohd Arshil said that the sustainability of the affordable private hospital model in the long term depends on diversifying income sources to face the challenges of global medical inflation and currency weakness. He also suggested the use of high-quality generic medicines to control treatment costs and reduce dependence on imported medicines and equipment. "As a government-linked company (GLC) entity, Selgate can leverage its scale to manage its own pharmacy chain and strengthen its corporate primary healthcare package which is more preventative," he said. Last May, the Menteri Besar of Selangor, Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, said the official opening of Selgate Specialist Hospital Rawang was able to accommodate the demand for specialist services in the northern corridor of Selangor, which is currently recording rapid population growth. He said the hospital, with a capacity of 224 beds, would not just meet the needs of private healthcare, but would also be part of the state government's efforts to expand health benefits to the people. -- BERNAMA

Selangor expands access to affordable healthcare through Selgate

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 20 -- The Second Meeting of the Fifth Term of the 15th Parliament, which begins this Monday, will focus on the tabling of several major bills, including the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 to limit the Prime Minister's term of office to 10 years, which will be re-tabled. The conference, which will last until July 16, is also scheduled to re-table the Constitution (Amendment) Bill (No. 2) 2026 which aims to separate the roles of the Attorney General and the Public Prosecutor. Both bills were previously tabled at the First Meeting of the Fifth Term of the 15th Parliament. However, the bill relating to the Prime Minister's term limits did not obtain the support of two-thirds of the Dewan Rakyat members, while the bill on the role of the Attorney General and Public Prosecutor has been referred to the Dewan Rakyat Special Select Committee, to provide space for all relevant parties to refine and examine it. Also of interest is the Cyber ​​Crime Bill 2026, in addition to the Road Transport Act (Amendment) Bill 1987 which is scheduled to be tabled on the first day of the session and will be debated the following day. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the proposed amendments, which include 11 scopes of amendments and 42 clauses, focus on action against illegal racing activities which are still a serious threat to the safety of road users. "The amendment also includes stricter measures to combat tonto activities and strengthen enforcement aspects in an effort to improve road safety and ensure more effective compliance with the law," he said recently. Apart from that, the 16-day conference is also expected to focus on discussions on various issues, particularly the impact of the global energy supply crisis on Malaysia following the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which has affected the international energy supply chain. Meanwhile, the Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat, Tan Sri Johari Abdul, reminded all Members of Parliament to carry out their responsibilities as representatives of the people and carry out the functions of the Dewan Rakyat through orderly, mature debates based on the Standing Orders, despite the current dynamic political situation. He said that both government and opposition MPs must carry out their respective roles, focus on issues of interest to the people and the country, as well as ensure a high quality of debate to strengthen quality democracy and help produce better policies. "The House of Representatives is the country's highest legislative institution...every debate should be based on facts, data and constructive proposals, rather than being influenced by sentiment or polemics that do not bring solutions." "The people expect the representatives they elect to discuss issues of cost of living, education, health, economy, job opportunities and community well-being seriously and responsibly," he told Bernama. Commenting on the Johor State Election (PRN) which was held simultaneously with the Dewan Rakyat sitting, Johari also reminded all Members of Parliament to give a high commitment to attending Parliament, in addition to not abusing the sitting session for politics. He said that although Members of Parliament have various political commitments outside the Dewan Rakyat, their presence and participation in sittings is a major responsibility that cannot be ignored. "I believe every Member of Parliament understands the responsibility and trust given by the people. The Dewan Rakyat is a place to discuss policies, laws and issues of national interest." "Therefore, I hope that all Honorable Members can give due commitment to the proceedings of the session and take advantage of this session to express their views responsibly and comply with the Rules of Procedure," he said. In addition to the Dewan Rakyat session, the Dewan Negara will also begin a 10-day session from July 20 to August 4. -- BERNAMA

Second session of the Dewan Rakyat begins Monday, several important bills in focus

PUTRAJAYA, JUNE 20 -- The implementation of e-Invoice has successfully strengthened tax compliance with 52,540 taxpayers reporting a total income of RM4.07 billion, according to the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRB). The IRB in a statement today informed that since the implementation of e-Invoices began on 1 August 2024, more than 230,000 taxpayers have submitted e-Invoices, which involves the issuance of 1.505 billion e-Invoices in total. "This development demonstrates the support and willingness of taxpayers to strengthen digitalization in business operations," the statement said. In line with the principle of transparency in the country's taxation system, the IRB has informed all taxpayers that they must issue e-Invoices for every transaction involving the sale of goods or provision of services exceeding RM10,000 starting 1 Jan 2026. For this purpose, the buyer needs to submit their personal identification number or tax identification number (TIN) information to the seller, to enable the e-Invoice to be issued accurately. According to a statement by the IRB, it has developed an analytical model to identify anomalies, suspicious transactions and unusual behavior patterns for enforcement purposes. "This initiative has proven effective where the IRB has successfully implemented more effective risk assessments, thus increasing the level of voluntary tax compliance and contributing to increased national revenue collection," the statement said. Based on the analysis, the IRB detected taxpayers who showed a pattern of active financial transactions but did not match existing tax records, including high-value purchase transactions exceeding RM100,000, vehicle and asset purchases, as well as active online transaction activities without proper income reporting records. IRB remains committed to intensifying the "nudging" approach and compliance based on e-Invoice data to increase awareness and provide taxpayers with the opportunity to make corrections and submit tax information voluntarily before any further action is taken. "Through this approach, a total of 52,540 taxpayers have come forward to submit Income Tax Return Forms (BNCP) for income from previous assessment years, with a total income of RM4.07 billion and tax payable amounting to RM1.009 billion," according to a statement from the IRB. The IRB informed that the results of continuous monitoring carried out found that there are still taxpayers who do not comply with the requirements for implementing e-Invoices as stipulated. Among the mistakes made by taxpayers identified is the inconsistent issuance of e-Invoices, including situations where e-Invoices are only issued for some transactions and fail to issue e-Invoices for subsequent transactions. Other mistakes made were sending consolidated e-Invoices after the allowed time period and failure to issue e-Invoices for sales transactions of goods or provision of services exceeding RM10,000 starting 1 Jan 2026. In this regard, the IRB advises all taxpayers to ensure that the issuance of e-Invoices is fully implemented in accordance with the regulations in force. For taxpayers who have not yet issued e-Invoices for previous transactions, voluntary corrective actions must be implemented immediately. "Enforcement and legal action will be taken to ensure a high level of compliance and to guarantee that fairness in the country's taxation system is always maintained," the statement said. -- BERNAMA

e-Invoice strengthens tax compliance: 52,540 taxpayers come forward to report income of RM4.07 billion

KUALA LUMPUR, June 20 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Turkmenistan, highlighting the growing partnership between the two nations in strategic sectors beyond the traditional oil and gas industry. Speaking after attending the Malaysia-Turkmenistan Forum alongside President Serdar Berdimuhamedov before concluding his official visit, Anwar said the forum provided an important platform for industry leaders and business communities from both countries to explore broader and more meaningful avenues of cooperation. He noted that Malaysia and Turkmenistan are now expanding collaboration into key areas such as education, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, and human capital development. “Relations between Malaysia and Turkmenistan have evolved significantly and now extend far beyond the oil and gas sector. Building on decades of trust and friendship, both countries are committed to forging stronger partnerships in strategic and future-oriented industries,” Anwar said. The Prime Minister also highlighted that 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of PETRONAS’ presence in Turkmenistan, describing it as a testament to the success of long-term cooperation based on mutual respect, knowledge-sharing, and technology transfer. According to Anwar, the achievements of PETRONAS in Turkmenistan demonstrate how sustainable partnerships can deliver lasting economic benefits and contribute to the development of both nations. He also reflected on the legacy of renowned Turkmen poet Magtymguly Pyragy, whose writings emphasised unity and shared purpose. “His message that hearts, minds, and souls united by a common purpose can overcome any challenge continues to resonate today and serves as a foundation for the strong relationship between Malaysia and Turkmenistan,” he said. During the forum, Anwar and Berdimuhamedov witnessed the signing of several key agreements aimed at enhancing energy cooperation between the two countries. The agreements included a Framework Agreement between the Government of Turkmenistan and the Government of Malaysia on Long-Term Cooperation for the Development of Turkmenistan’s Hydrocarbon Resources. Also signed was a Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) for Block 19 and Block 20 involving PETRONAS, State Concern Turkmennebit, and State Enterprise Hazarnebit. In addition, both parties concluded a Cooperation Agreement for the implementation of a 2D seismic survey covering offshore blocks along Turkmenistan’s northern coastal region. Anwar expressed confidence that the agreements would usher in a new chapter in Malaysia-Turkmenistan relations and serve as a model of successful South-South cooperation. He said the strengthened partnership demonstrates how countries of the Global South can work together to achieve shared progress, economic growth, and prosperity for their people through mutually beneficial cooperation.    -- MINUTESMY  -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM 

PM Anwar: Malaysia, Turkmenistan Deepen Strategic Cooperation Beyond Oil and Gas

ASHGABAT, June 20 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim witnessed the exchange of several key agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) between Malaysia and Turkmenistan, marking a significant step forward in strengthening strategic cooperation across a range of priority sectors, yesterday. The signing ceremony, held during Anwar’s official visit to Turkmenistan, underscored both nations’ commitment to fostering a more structured, progressive, and mutually beneficial bilateral relationship. Among the documents exchanged were a Memorandum of Understanding between the Academy of Sciences Malaysia and the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan, as well as an MoU between the aviation authorities of both countries aimed at enhancing cooperation in the aviation sector. The two governments also signed an MoU on diplomatic training to strengthen collaboration in capacity-building and the development of diplomatic expertise. In addition, Malaysia and Turkmenistan concluded an Air Services Agreement, paving the way for closer connectivity and greater people-to-people and business exchanges between the two countries. Another notable development was the announcement of an MoU involving Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) and higher education institutions in Turkmenistan, reflecting the growing emphasis on academic cooperation, research, and talent development. The visit also saw the adoption of a Joint Statement by Malaysia and Turkmenistan, reaffirming their shared commitment to expanding cooperation across multiple sectors of mutual interest. Speaking at a joint media conference with Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Anwar said the agreements reflected the determination of both countries to elevate bilateral ties and deliver long-term benefits to their people. “These documents embody our shared aspiration to build a stronger, more organised, and complementary partnership that will continue to serve the strategic interests of both nations,” he said. The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of ensuring that all agreements reached are implemented effectively. “We have reaffirmed our collective commitment to execute every cooperation initiative that has been agreed upon in a disciplined, transparent, and effective manner,” he added. Anwar expressed confidence that the enduring friendship between Malaysia and Turkmenistan would continue to flourish, driven by mutual trust, respect, and a shared vision for future prosperity. He said the strengthened partnership would create new opportunities for collaboration in science, education, diplomacy, transportation, and economic development, further reinforcing the longstanding ties between the two nations.     -- MINUTESMY  -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM 

PM Anwar : Malaysia and Turkmenistan Seal Key Agreements to Strengthen Strategic Bilateral Cooperation

PUTRAJAYA, June 19 -- The Federal Court today struck out the prosecution's notice of appeal against the acquittal of a man on a charge of murdering bullying victim T. Nhaveen nine years ago.  A three-member Federal Court bench led by Datuk Nordin Hassan made the ruling after Deputy Public Prosecutor Allan Suman Pillai informed the court that the notice of appeal could not be served personally on S. Gopinaath, 35, who resides in Penang, as the respondent could not be located. “This is the fifth time the prosecution has attempted to serve the notice of appeal. I seek further directions from the court,” said Allan. Also sitting on the bench were Datuk Seri Vazeer Alam Mydin Meera and Datuk Azimah Omar. The prosecution had appealed against the Court of Appeal's decision on Jan 13, 2025, to acquit Gopinaath of murdering Nhaveen, who was 18 at the time, at a park along Jalan Bunga Raya between 11 pm and midnight on June 9, 2017. Gopinaath was charged in 2021, four years after the incident, while the prosecution's seventh witness was testifying during the trial. The Court of Appeal also ordered four men - J. Ragesuthan and S. Gokulan, both now aged 27, as well as two others who were juveniles at the time of the incident - to enter their defence on a murder charge after allowing the prosecution's appeal against the Penang High Court's decision on Oct 3, 2023, to discharge and acquit them. The appellate court also remitted the case to the Penang High Court for the four men to enter their defence. The four were further ordered to enter their defence on a charge of causing injury to Nhaveen's friend, T. Previin, near the Karpal Singh Learning Centre along Jalan Kaki Bukit, Gelugor, between 11 pm and midnight on June 9, 2017. Case management has been fixed for July 3 at the Penang High Court to set trial dates. Nhaveen sustained serious injuries after being assaulted by a group of youths in an incident along Jalan Kaki Bukit, Gelugor. He was admitted to Penang Hospital but died six days later.  His friend, Previin, was also reportedly assaulted by the same group with motorcycle helmets but managed to escape and seek help. -- BERNAMA

Prosecution’s Appeal In Nhaveen Murder Case Struck Out By Federal Court

KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court here has struck down a subpoena requiring Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to appear as a witness in a civil suit totaling RM30 million, filed by 12 individuals against a businessman and his wife. Datuk Vinod Balachandra Sekhar and his wife Winny Yeap Liew Heoh, were sued by plaintiffs consisting of 10 investors and two of Vinod's former employees in 2023. Judicial Commissioner Datuk Muhammad Adam @ Edward Abdullah, in allowing Anwar's application to set aside the subpoena dated Jan 15, ruled that the plaintiff failed to prove that the Prime Minister was a relevant and material witness in the trial. "No useful purpose can be achieved by ordering his presence. Such action would be oppressive and divert the focus of the trial from the real legal issues. They are also relying on photographs, social media posts and public events involving Anwar and Vinod." “At the highest level, such materials can only show the existence of a relationship or acquaintance. They do not prove that the applicant has personal knowledge of the transaction at issue in the pleadings. A relationship does not necessarily make a person a material witness.” "Anyone mentioned in an email, photographed with any party, or referred to in a conversation can be compelled to appear in court. That is not the law. It is important to remember the important principle that subpoenas are not issued automatically without control," he said. "The plaintiff claimed that the applicant (Anwar) needed to be summoned because his name was used to commit fraud, but their own witnesses admitted that there was no evidence that his name was used to obtain investments or money. Therefore, the court allowed the applicant's application to set aside the subpoena," he said. The court also ordered the plaintiff to pay costs of RM20,000 to Anwar. Lawyer Sanjay Mohan represented Anwar, while the plaintiff was represented by lawyer Colin Andrew Pereira. The couple was sued in 2023 for alleged misrepresentation, fraud and breach of contract by 12 plaintiffs. The plaintiffs alleged that Vinod convinced them to make investments directly or through companies he owned, without informing them of his alleged bankruptcy status. They also claimed to have raised concerns via an email dated Sept 30, 2020. Vinod allegedly dismissed the concerns and stated that an individual named "Anwar" would handle the issue, thus giving the impression of a connection to Anwar, who the plaintiff believed was referring to the Prime Minister. -- NAMED

High Court sets aside subpoena, PM Anwar does not have to testify in RM30 million suit

SHAH ALAM, June 19 -- The Selangor Malay Customs and Heritage Corporation (PADAT) has announced the appointment of Aslynda Mohd Dahlan as its new chief executive officer, effective immediately. In a statement today, PADAT said the appointment is aimed at driving forward Selangor's heritage agenda while cementing the body's role as the state's leading institution for culture, heritage, and museums. It highlighted her extensive track record in public administration, state development planning, financial management, strategic policy development, and corporate governance. "Prior to her appointment at PADAT, she built her career in the Selangor state government, serving in senior roles such as the state treasury's principal assistant financial officer. "She also previously served as the principal assistant director of the sectoral section at the Selangor State Economic Planning Unit (UPEN), which provided her with direct experience and exposure to the development of the state's culture, heritage, and creative industries," the statement read. Aslynda also served as a board member of Wanita Berdaya Selangor (WBS), where she monitored corporate governance to ensure compliance with the standards set by the Selangor state government. Welcoming her to the role, PADAT’s board, management, and staff expressed full confidence that her experience and expertise would drive forward the preservation, conservation, and promotion of Selangor’s cultural heritage. "Under her leadership, PADAT will continue to empower museums as dynamic hubs for education, research, and cultural tourism, while expanding efforts to document, conserve, and promote the state's heritage to ensure it remains relevant for present and future generations. "This appointment also aligns with the Selangor state government's aspiration to ensure that the state's historical treasures, culture, and Malay customs continue to be preserved, appreciated, and passed down as a symbol of identity and state pride," the statement read. -- Credit: : PERBADANAN ADAT MELAYU DAN WARISAN NEGERI SELANGOR (PADAT)  -- BERNAMA

Selangor Heritage Body Names Aslynda Mohd Dahlan As New CEO

PUTRAJAYA, June 19 -- The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has recommended amendments to the Strata Management Act 2013 (Act 757) to expand the investigative powers of the Commissioner of Buildings (COB) in addressing conflicts of interest and the misuse of management funds in strata properties. In a statement today, the MACC said the proposal was among six recommendations submitted by its Governance Investigation Division (BPT) to the National Housing Department (JPN) under the Ministry of Housing and Local Government to strengthen governance in financial management and procurement practices in strata developments. "Among the key recommendations proposed are amendments to Act 757 to expand the COB's investigative powers over conflicts of interest and fund misappropriation, enforcement through compoundable offences to expedite action and improve compliance, and the gazettement of financial and procurement guidelines as legal obligations with clear procedures," the statement said. The MACC said the recommendations were presented by BPT deputy director II Ahmad Shukri Mohd Taib to the JPN on June 16 through a study on challenges faced by the COB in regulating financial management and procurement in strata developments. To enhance transparency, the MACC also proposed the development of an e-reporting system based on Singapore's Building Maintenance and Strata Management Act 2004 model, which would enable more transparent periodic reporting and reduce the risk of document manipulation. "It was also proposed that staffing structures be reorganised through the addition of personnel and the establishment of an optimum staffing ratio to improve monitoring effectiveness, while officers' competencies should be strengthened through continuous training in finance, auditing, procurement and enforcement," the statement said. Meanwhile, the JPN welcomed all the recommendations and expressed confidence that their implementation would strengthen governance, enhance transparency and accountability, and reinforce organisational management practices towards delivering services that are more ethical, efficient and effective. -- BERNAMA    

MACC Recommends Wider COB Powers To Strengthen Strata Fund Management

KUALA LUMPUR: A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 6.3 was detected off the east coast of Kamchatka, Russia at 2.52 pm this afternoon. The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) in a statement announced that the earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometres (km) with the epicentre detected 128 km east of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatskiy, Russia. However, initial assessments found that there was no tsunami threat to Malaysia. -- NAMED

Strong earthquake hits Russia, no tsunami threat to Malaysia – MetMalaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 -- Artificial intelligence (AI) technology can be utilised to speed up the production of news content, but editorial responsibility must remain in human hands to ensure that the integrity and credibility of journalism are preserved, according to a top media executive. Vanakkam Malaysia chief executive officer Thiaga Rajan Muthusamy said AI should not be given editorial decision-making powers, even though the technology can assist in various aspects of content production and improve work efficiency. He said AI can be used to speed up writing, translation and the preparation of multilingual content, but final decisions related to publication must be made by media practitioners. "For producing content, we can use AI because we know it can generate content faster and more attractively, but do not give editorial responsibility to AI," he said, stressing that AI should not be seen as a replacement for journalists or editors. He said this as a guest on Bernama Radio’s Jendela Fikir HAWANA programme, which discussed the topic HAWANA 2026: Challenges to Media Integrity and Credibility in the AI Era today. Thiaga Rajan said the use of AI in the media industry is unavoidable as the technology is also widely used across various other sectors. He said media practitioners must master the technology to enable them to convey information related to AI more effectively to the public. "If media practitioners themselves do not understand AI, we will not be able to convey such information to the public," he said. According to Thiaga Rajan, media organisations that refuse to adopt AI risk becoming irrelevant in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. He stressed that integrity remains the key factor distinguishing journalistic content from that generated automatically by technology. "AI can write articles, produce videos and create voices, but it cannot replace integrity. As journalists, we cannot compromise on integrity, and it is even more important in this AI era," he said. The National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2026 celebration will culminate in Penang tomorrow, bringing together media practitioners from across the country to honour them as integrity-driven conveyors of information. -- BERNAMA

AI Is A Tool, Not An Editorial Authority – Media CEO

KUALA LUMPUR: Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has allocated RM200 million under the Sustainable Business @ Kuala Lumpur 2026 Programme to redevelop and improve hawker facilities at 287 locations in the capital. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh said the large-scale initiative would benefit more than 11,000 small traders and hawkers to ensure they can operate in a safer, more organised and conducive environment. He said DBKL always takes a fair approach by considering the views of all stakeholders including residents, traders and building tenants in implementing the relocation and upgrading of hawker area programmes. "This year, DBKL will implement this program in many locations. In the issue of placement of small traders, DBKL needs to consider various voices including residents who want smooth traffic, traders and building tenants to conduct business. "We have to be fair to all parties because each of them has their own views on the appropriate location," he told reporters after inspecting the hawker facilities upgrade project near UTC Sentul here today. Also present were Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Fadlun Mak Ujud and Batu Member of Parliament P. Prabakaran. Regarding the project to upgrade hawker facilities at UTC Sentul which went viral on social media recently, Hannah said she understood that DBKL had conducted an engagement session and implemented the redevelopment concept after taking into account all the feedback received. He said the renovation work on the existing structure was not aimed at driving away traders, but rather to rebuild 20 new, more comfortable modular kiosk units at a cost of RM1.6 million, which began on June 15 with completion expected before October. Meanwhile, Fadlun said that to ease the burden of 20 active traders who were affected during the construction period, DBKL was for the first time introducing special assistance of RM1,500 per month. He said the direct financial assistance approach was more efficient than providing temporary sites which not only cost a lot, but were sometimes less strategic and affected the number of customers compared to the original location. Fadlun said that after UTC Sentul, the simultaneous upgrading project using the approach of providing special incentives will continue in several other locations including Jalan Dato Senu, Pudu Ulu and Bandar Tun Razak. Regarding the Lestari Niaga programme, Fadlun said the total allocation of RM200 million involved various categories of hawkers under the supervision of DBKL in stages, with the initial phase focusing on 224 locations. "Of the total number involved, more than 4,000 are roadside hawkers while another 5,000 traders operate under the Mayor's assets and the remaining approximately 1,000 are in the re-application category," he said. -- BERNAMA

Sustainable Business: DBKL allocates RM200 million to rebuild 287 stall locations

PEKAN, JUNE 19 -- Police have arrested four more individuals to assist in investigations into the sale and purchase of sick leave certificates (MC), which are suspected to be invalid. Pahang Police Chief Datuk Seri Yahaya Othman said those arrested were in their 40s and were arrested around the district last Wednesday. "Previously, five individuals were arrested and remanded at the Pekan Magistrate's Court. As a result of follow-up investigations, four more were arrested who are believed to be buyers," he told reporters at the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) handover ceremony between the Malaysian Islamic Economic Development Foundation and the Pahang Royal Malaysia Police here, today. He said five individuals, including a female nurse, had been released on police bail, after a remand period of between three and four days, which began last Monday and ended today. On June 15, the media reported that five individuals, including a nurse, were remanded for between three and four days starting today, to assist in the investigation into the sale and purchase of suspected illegal sick leave certificates. Meanwhile, Yahaya said the police were still completing investigation papers regarding the fatal accident at Kilometer 43 of the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Highway (KLK) last Sunday which killed four members of a family. He said the 40-year-old trailer driver involved had been arrested previously and the results of the examination found that the man tested positive for drugs and had several previous records of offenses, including traffic summonses and drug-related criminal records. "The case is being investigated under Section 44 of the Road Transport Act 1987, for dangerous driving causing death, in addition to Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952," he said. Yahaya said the suspect was released on police bail after the remand period expired to allow for the investigation to be completed. "We are still waiting for the chemical report before the investigation paper is referred to the prosecution for further action," he said. On June 15, Bentong District Police Chief Superintendent Zaiham Mohd Kahar announced that the 40-year-old trailer driver tested positive for drugs. -- BERNAMA

Police arrest four more individuals to assist in investigation into selling, buying fake sick leave certificates

PETALING JAYA, June 19 — The atmosphere at Dewan Serbaguna Kg Baru Seri Setia here was filled with festive cheer and a strong sense of community as residents gathered to celebrate the Dumpling Festival (端午节) through a distribution of Bak Zhang. The event, which saw constituents of P106 enjoying a variety of traditional rice dumplings, also served as a commemoration of the ancient Chinese poet Qu Yuan, whose legacy is closely associated with the cultural origins of the festival. Former Minister and Puchong Member of Parliament Gobind Singh Deo, who was present at the event, said the celebration reflected Malaysia’s unique muhibbah spirit, where cultural traditions are shared and appreciated across communities. He noted that such gatherings go beyond cultural observance, serving as a reminder of the importance of unity in diversity within the nation. The festive occasion drew families and residents together in a lively and inclusive environment, underscoring the shared commitment to preserving social harmony for future generations -- MINUTESMY

YB Gobind Singh Joins Dumpling Festival Celebration in Petaling Jaya, Highlights Unity Spirit

SHAH ALAM,JUNE 19 -- The Selangor State Government announced the second phase of the Selangor Resilience Strengthening Package, comprising 15 initiatives with an allocation of RM209.26 million as a strategic step to address the global energy crisis following the situation in West Asia. Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the initiative outlined did not only involve cash assistance but also holistic economic empowerment measures, so that the revenue generated by the state could be used by the entire community. He said the package was drawn up after the state government examined the impact of the crisis on several key sectors of the state's economy, particularly logistics, manufacturing and construction. Amirudin said based on data from the Social Security Organisation (Socso), of the 10,869 Selangor residents who lost their jobs from January to May 2026, 23.45 percent or 2,549 individuals were involved in the retail industry, while 21.3 percent or 2,316 individuals were in the manufacturing sector. "If we look deeper, of the 10,869 figure I mentioned earlier, 40 percent are workers at the management and professional levels, while the rest are workers at the technician, salesperson or machinery operator levels. "This situation has prompted the state government to protect the retail sector and offer transition options to workers who have lost their livelihoods, to venture into entrepreneurship as well as opportunities to improve their capabilities and skills," he said. He said this when presenting the Selangor Resilience Strengthening Package at the Fourth Term Special Meeting at the Selangor State Legislative Assembly (DUN), here today. Amirudin said among the initiatives announced today were the Reduction in Rental Rates for Local Authority Premises, involving an allocation of RM4.5 million, the Selangor Penyayang Project (RM14 million), Selangor Advance (SA500) (RM100 million), Entrepreneur Quick Fund Financing (RM20 million), Selangor Entrepreneur Recovery Initiative and PLATS Career Transition (RM4 million). In addition, the Selangor Career Programme (RM1.5 million), Selangor Agropreneur Assistance (RM6 million), Selangor Smart Rent Moratorium (RM2.22 million), State Government Housing Loan Moratorium (RM2.54 million), Selangor Agri-Entrepreneur Resilience Financing (RM7 million), Selangor Scholarship (RM17 million), Teraju IKTISASS (RM20 million), Mama Kerja (RM5 million) and 100 percent Assessment Tax Rebate (RM5.5 million). "Overall, RM209.26 million has been allocated for Phase 2, while the ongoing programs in Phase 1 cost RM145.8 million." “… this brings the total allocation for the Selangor Resilience Strengthening Package for Phase One and Phase Two to RM355.06 million,” he said. Amirudin, when presenting the package, also called on all parties to remain united and work together to ensure the state's economy remains competitive and thus becomes one of the drivers of the country's economy, in weathering economic uncertainty following the global situation. "We need collaboration and unity among the people as a whole. We need to get rid of the spirit of contention or hostility that is inappropriate in this time of crisis and uncertainty." "This is the time for us to unite, join hands and see clearly how this solution is carried out, not for the government, not for the Menteri Besar but to ensure that this state remains a resilient state," he said. -- BERNAMA

Selangor announces 15 second phase resilience initiatives with allocation of over RM200 million

SEPANG, JUNE 19 -- A woman was charged at the Magistrate's Court here today with murdering an Indonesian citizen earlier this month. The accused, Chin Siau Lan, 44, is charged with murdering the Indonesian national in a residential unit in Block B, The Olive, Jalan Sunsuria 1, Bandar Sunsuria, here at about 2.31 pm, June 3. The charge was brought under Section 302 of the Penal Code which provides for the death penalty or imprisonment for not less than 30 years and not more than 40 years and whipping of not less than 12 strokes, if convicted. No confession was recorded from the accused as the murder case falls under the jurisdiction of the High Court. The prosecution was conducted by Deputy Public Prosecutor V. Luvithaa while the accused was represented by lawyer V. Ayasamy. Magistrate Khairatul Animah Jelani then set a date for the case to be mentioned again on July 21 for the submission of documents. -- BERNAMA

Woman accused of killing an Indonesian citizen

PUTRAJAYA, JUNE 19 -- The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) cracked down on the sale of suspected counterfeit branded goods involving a seizure value of RM600,000 at three separate locations in Johor Bahru, last Monday. KPDN Enforcement Director-General, Datuk Azman Adam said that his party, through the Putrajaya Enforcement Division, raided three premises that offered various types of branded goods displaying the trademarks of several well-known brands without the permission of the registered trademark owners. "This operation is the result of a month's worth of intelligence on traders who were found to be selling at major supermarkets, as well as being suspected of being distributors to other traders." "The raid team seized various types of goods suspected of using the trademark incorrectly, such as clothing, handbags, wallets, belts, perfumes and related business documents, with a total value of the seizure estimated at RM600,000," he said in a statement today. Azman said that the results of the initial inspection and verification with the complainant's representative found that there was reasonable cause to believe that an offence had been committed. In this regard, he said, the Ministry of National Development and Reform also detained four local individuals, consisting of the owner and caretaker of the premises, to assist in the investigation as they are believed to be involved in the management of the business operations. He said the case is being investigated under Section 102(1)(c) of the Trademark Act 2019 [Act 815] and individuals convicted of the offence can be fined a maximum of RM10,000 for each counterfeit item or imprisoned for a maximum of three years or both for the first offence, while for subsequent offences, a maximum fine of RM20,000 for each item or imprisoned for a maximum of five years or both. He said that for company or corporate offenders, the maximum fine is RM15,000 for each item for the first offence and a maximum of RM30,000 for each item for subsequent offences. Azman said the Ministry of Trade and Industry would continue to intensify enforcement operations and would not compromise with any party that carries out activities such as selling or distributing counterfeit goods that violate intellectual property rights and mislead consumers. -- BERNAMA

KPDN seizes sale of counterfeit branded goods in Johor Bahru worth RM600,000

KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, today received a courtesy call from Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail at Istana Bukit Tunku here. The meeting was held in His Majesty's capacity as the Honorary Commissioner of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM). During the audience, Sultan Ibrahim was briefed on various matters concerning national security and the maintenance of public order throughout the country. The briefing provided updates on current security developments as well as ongoing efforts by the Royal Malaysia Police to ensure the safety, peace and well-being of the rakyat. The audience reflects the close cooperation between the Palace and the nation's security institutions in safeguarding stability and public confidence in Malaysia's law enforcement system. Tan Sri Mohd Khalid's visit also underscores PDRM's commitment to keeping His Majesty informed on key issues affecting national security and public safety. -- MINUTESMY

Sultan Ibrahim Receives Courtesy Call from Inspector-General of Police

GEORGE TOWN, JUNE 19 -- Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil is scheduled to undertake a two-day working visit to Penang starting today to attend various programmes in conjunction with the National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2026 summit. He is scheduled to begin his official agenda by attending the Malaysia 2.0 Media Settlement Programme in Seberang Jaya at 3.50pm, before attending the State Government Dinner with the Penang Governor, Tun Ramli Ngah Talib at 8.15pm tonight. The ceremony was held as a sign of appreciation for the role of the media in national development, as well as serving as a platform to bring together media practitioners, editors-in-chief, and top management of local and international media organisations. Fahmi is then scheduled to participate in the RIUH Pi HAWANA Carnival at the PICCA Convention Centre @ Butterworth Arena at 10.15pm, which brings together creative industry practitioners, entrepreneurs and the local community. The three-day carnival, which begins today, combines creative art elements with dialogue sessions and various interesting activities such as art workshops on cyanotype printmaking, albumen printing and stone carving, and admission is free. The carnival also brought together more than 24 local creative product brands, 20 food and beverage vendors and 16 stage performances by local artists including Sakura Band, Kaka Azraff, Budak Nakal Hujung Simpang and Chelsea Ng. Tomorrow, Fahmi will continue his busy schedule by attending the World Cup Special Edition Jiwa@Sembang Santai Program at the Seberang Jaya Public Market at 8.30 am. He will then attend the Media Dialogue with the Minister of Communications in conjunction with HAWANA 2026 at 9.30 am in Butterworth. The focus tomorrow will definitely be the HAWANA 2026 Summit themed "Media with Integrity, Credibility at the Core" which will take place at the PICCA Convention Centre @ Butterworth Arena at 3pm. The event, which will be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, is expected to bring together approximately 1,000 media practitioners from home and abroad to discuss the direction of journalism today. HAWANA, organised by the Ministry of Communications with the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) acting as the implementing agency, is a culminating platform in appreciating the contributions, diligence and professionalism of media practitioners in Malaysia. Fahmi is scheduled to depart for the capital tomorrow night after completing all planned programs. -- BERNAMA

YB Datuk Fahmi conducts working visit to Penang in conjunction with HAWANA 2026, greets media practitioners

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

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

ASHGABAT, June 19 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim arrived in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, today at the invitation of Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov as part of Malaysia's ongoing MADANI Diplomacy mission aimed at strengthening international partnerships and expanding economic cooperation. Anwar expressed hope that the series of meetings and engagements scheduled throughout the official visit would proceed smoothly and deliver significant benefits for Malaysia and its people. The Prime Minister said the visit provides an important opportunity to further enhance the longstanding friendship between Malaysia and Turkmenistan while deepening cooperation across various sectors of mutual interest. He noted that both countries are committed to exploring new avenues of collaboration that can generate shared prosperity and strengthen bilateral relations for the benefit of their respective peoples. The official visit is expected to focus on expanding economic ties, fostering investment opportunities, and strengthening cooperation in strategic sectors, reflecting Malaysia's continued commitment to constructive international engagement under the MADANI framework.         -- MINUTESMY  -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM 

PM Anwar Ibrahim Arrives in Turkmenistan to Advance MADANI Diplomacy and Bilateral Cooperation

More systematic screening needed to address iron deficiency among children

Friday prayers at Outreach Oasis Bukit Bintang starting today

SEREMBAN, June 18 -- The Negeri Sembilan Road Transport Department (RTD) has seized 145 luxury vehicles for various road offences through Ops Luxury in the first six months of this year. Negeri Sembilan RTD director Jasyindar Singh Sihdu said this was the result of inspections on 870 luxury vehicles such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota Alphard, Lexus and BMW Limousine with 262 offences detected. "They include Motor Vehicle Licenses (LKM), insurance coverage and invalid or expired driving licenses, vehicle modifications without RTD approval and violations of provisions under the Road Transport Act 1987. "During the operation, seven luxury cars driven by non-citizens including from China, Pakistan, Bangladesh and a United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) cardholder were seized," he said in a statement here today. He said that every offence would be dealt with without any compromise, including confiscation of vehicles and prosecution in court. He said his party would increase the frequency and intensity of enforcement operations including patrols, roadblocks and technical inspections to ensure compliance with traffic laws is always at the highest level. -- BERNAMA

N.Sembilan RTD Seizes 145 Luxury Cars In Ops Luxury

JOHOR BAHRU, June 18 -- The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) will deploy 11,926 officers and personnel to ensure security and the smooth conduct of the upcoming Johor State Election. Johor Police Chief Datuk Ab Rahaman Arsad said the deployment will be carried out in five phases throughout the election process. “The deployment will be adjusted according to operational needs,” he told a press conference at the Johor Police Contingent Headquarters today. In addition, Ab Rahaman said the Johor Police Contingent had received additional manpower support from units under the Internal Security and Public Order Department (KDNKA) to maintain public order He said it involved 54 officers and 701 personnel from the General Operations Force, Federal Reserve Unit, PDRM Air Unit and Marine Police Force. Ab Rahaman said that for nomination day on June 27, a total of 4,832 officers and personnel will be deployed to ensure the smooth running of the process, including security and traffic control aspects. He said that throughout the campaign period, from after nomination day until 11.59 pm on July 10, a total of 3,903 personnel will be deployed to monitor all campaign activities, ceramah, gatherings and political programmes. On polling day, July 11, Ab Rahaman said a total of 11,814 police officers and personnel will be deployed statewide to assist the Election Commission (EC) in overseeing the voting process and ensuring voters can carry out their responsibilities safely. He also said the police would take strict action against any form of provocation, threats, incitement, the spread of fake news and hate speech involving the royal institution, religion and race (3R), which could affect public order. Meanwhile, he said a total of 12,710 police officers and personnel in Johor were eligible for early voting in the state election based on the electoral roll gazetted by the EC as of May 31. --BERNAMA

PDRM Deploys 11,926 Personnel For Johor State Election

Lifestyle

Malaysia is often described as a cultural melting pot, but for those who call the country home, diversity is more than a slogan—it is a way of life. Home to Malays, Chinese, Indians, and numerous indigenous communities, Malaysia has built a unique society where different cultures, languages, religions, and traditions coexist while maintaining their distinct identities. From bustling cities to rural villages, multiculturalism shapes everyday life. It can be seen in the food Malaysians eat, the festivals they celebrate, the languages they speak, and the friendships they form. This rich cultural tapestry is one of the nation's greatest strengths and a defining characteristic of the Malaysian way of life. The Malay community, which forms the majority of the population, contributes significantly to the country's traditions, customs, and national identity. Islam plays an important role in Malay culture, influencing celebrations such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Hari Raya Haji. Traditional arts, music, and cuisine continue to thrive alongside modern lifestyles. The Chinese community has also played a vital role in Malaysia's development, particularly in business, education, and commerce. Chinese cultural traditions remain vibrant through festivals such as Chinese New Year, the Mid-Autumn Festival, and various cultural celebrations. Family values, entrepreneurship, and community ties are central aspects of Chinese Malaysian life. Meanwhile, the Indian community enriches Malaysia with its colourful traditions, cuisine, and religious practices. Festivals such as Deepavali are celebrated nationwide, bringing people together in a spirit of joy and unity. Indian culture has left a lasting impact on Malaysia's culinary landscape, language, arts, and social fabric. Beyond Peninsular Malaysia, the indigenous communities of Sabah and Sarawak add another important dimension to the nation's diversity. Groups such as the Iban, Bidayuh, Kadazan-Dusun, Orang Ulu, and many others preserve unique languages, customs, and cultural heritage. Celebrations such as Gawai Dayak and Kaamatan showcase the rich traditions of these communities while attracting participation from Malaysians of all backgrounds. One of the most remarkable aspects of Malaysian society is the way different communities interact and share in each other's celebrations. During festive seasons, it is common for Malaysians to visit friends and neighbours of different ethnicities through the tradition of open houses. Whether it is Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Christmas, Gawai, or Kaamatan, these gatherings foster mutual understanding and strengthen social bonds. Food is perhaps the most visible symbol of Malaysia's multicultural identity. A single meal can reflect influences from multiple cultures. Malaysians regularly enjoy dishes such as nasi lemak, char kway teow, roti canai, satay, laksa, and banana leaf rice, regardless of their ethnic background. Hawker centres, food courts, and restaurants serve as meeting places where people from all walks of life come together. Language further reflects the country's diversity. While Bahasa Malaysia serves as the national language and unifying medium, many Malaysians are multilingual, speaking English, Mandarin, Tamil, indigenous languages, and various Chinese dialects. This linguistic diversity enables communication across communities and contributes to Malaysia's global outlook. As Malaysia continues to modernise, its multicultural character remains one of its greatest assets. While challenges exist in any diverse society, Malaysians have consistently demonstrated the ability to find common ground through mutual respect, shared values, and a collective commitment to national harmony. The Malaysian way of life is not about erasing differences; it is about celebrating them. It is a living example of how people from different backgrounds can coexist, contribute, and thrive together. In an increasingly interconnected world, Malaysia stands as a testament to the strength that comes from diversity and unity. -- MINUTESMY / SUGAN BALAN

The Malaysian Way of Life: A Blend of Cultures

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 20 -- Efforts to restore the glory of the Malaysian music industry to the international stage will be realised through the production of a biopic film about the legendary entertainer the late Datuk Sudirman Haji Arshad by 2028. The late's nephew, Razman Azrai Zainuddin or better known as Atai, said the film was not just about the story of Sudirman, but about the golden era of local music in the 1980s which once gained international recognition. "We want today's generation to rediscover the culture, unity and spirit of the Malaysian people at that time," he told reporters after the Datuk Sudirman Arshad Legacy Appreciation Ceremony, here, yesterday. Atai said the idea for the biopic production originated five years ago and is now entering the early development phase with support from the National Film Development Corporation of Malaysia (Finas), particularly in the aspect of script development. According to him, several potential directors have been identified and the production team is now actively seeking strategic collaborations and funding, in addition to holding auditions to find actors who can portray the versatile entertainer. In a similar development, Atai, who represents the heirs of the late Sudirman, received royalty payments totaling more than RM360,000 from EMI Music Malaysia, one of the labels under the auspices of Universal Music Malaysia. He said the payment covered the deceased's works since the 1970s based on the agreement and copyright signed at that time. According to Atai, the royalty claim and verification process took about two years because it involved an account audit process as well as detailed discussions between the heirs, family lawyers and the recording company to ensure the appointment of a legal administrator. "Previously, royalty matters were quite difficult because no administrative mechanism was established immediately after the late King's passing. "After the old financial responsibilities were settled by his siblings, we established Sudirman Asset Management in 2015 to facilitate and coordinate all matters related to the late's legacy, including applications for the use of his images, works and intellectual property rights," he said. Atai said the initiative also allows for the management of the late Sudirman's copyright and royalties to be implemented in a more structured manner, thus making it easier for outside parties who wish to obtain permission regarding the use of Sudirman's works and identity in the future. Meanwhile, Universal Music Malaysia Managing Director, Kim Lim, said the process of auditing the accounts and coordinating the royalty statements took almost two years due to the ambiguity of several of the deceased's old contracts when he was under the EMI Music Malaysia label. "This royalty handover is not just fulfilling the company's responsibility to the heirs, but is also a form of appreciation for the great contribution of the late Sudirman who has shaped the country's musical landscape," he said. Kim said that following the expiration of the old contract, a new agreement was signed with the Sudirman family which included aspects of digitization, audio restoration, re-publication of iconic works including vinyl records, as well as payment of digital royalties in full. According to him, Universal Music Malaysia is currently planning various commercial initiatives including digital campaigns through major streaming platforms as well as new souvenir items to reintroduce Sudirman's song catalogue to the younger generation. As part of this effort, Universal Music Malaysia and Sudi Production collaborated to hold the "Bintang Uni-verse Pencarian Sudirman 2.0" program at five selected public universities aimed at identifying new talents in the fields of singing and acting to support the production of the biopic film. "We don't want to find a replica or replace Sudirman because he cannot be replaced. We want to find young talent who are inspired by his art to present the work in a fresher and more relevant approach," he said. -- BERNAMA

Sudirman biopic to meet fans by 2028

MUKAH, June 19  -- A water hyacinth processing project that converts the invasive aquatic plant into organic fertiliser has created a new source of income for residents, particularly women, in Dalat district, said Sarawak Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah. She said women involved in the project not only work at the processing centre but also earn additional income by collecting water hyacinth from rivers and selling it to the facility as raw material. Fatimah said the project uses Black Soldier Fly (BSF) technology to recycle organic waste, including water hyacinth, into high-quality organic fertiliser and protein-rich animal feed. "This initiative transforms an invasive plant that was once a problem for riverine communities into an economic resource that benefits residents," she said at the launch of the Organic Fertiliser and Animal Feed Centre in Dalat near here today. She said 3,227 kilogrammes (kg) of water hyacinth had been collected this year for organic fertiliser production, with collectors receiving 40 sen per kg. The initiative not only helps clear rivers of the aggressively growing plant but also creates income opportunities for residents involved in its collection and processing, she said. Fatimah said the project had completed its first phase, which involved constructing a processing centre, procuring equipment, establishing initial stock and commencing operations in Kampung Kekan, Dalat. Earlier, she launched the processing centre, which also serves as a Black Soldier Fly breeding farm and was developed through a collaboration between the Sarawak state government and Petronas to support rural development efforts. She said the collected water hyacinth is used to produce biomass for breeding Black Soldier Fly larvae before the remaining plant matter is processed into organic fertiliser. A total of 804 kg of organic fertiliser was produced last year, generating RM2,400 in sales, while 676 kg had been produced so far this year, with sales reaching RM2,119, she said. Meanwhile, Petronas Sarawak general manager Norazibah Md Rabu said the Dalat community project reflected Petronas' commitment to supporting community wellbeing while advancing sustainable solutions to address local challenges. -- BERNAMA

Water Hyacinth Organic Fertiliser Project Generates New Income For Dalat Community

Sports & Fitness

MIAMI, June 22 — Cape Verde continued its remarkable FIFA World Cup debut by scoring its first-ever goal at the tournament and securing a hard-fought 2-2 draw against two-time world champions Uruguay in their Group H clash on Sunday. After earning widespread praise for holding European champions Spain to a goalless draw in their opening match, the African nation once again impressed with a spirited performance to claim another valuable point. Cape Verde made history when Gilson Tavares found the net in the 31st minute, giving his side a surprise lead and marking the country's first goal in a World Cup finals tournament. Uruguay responded just before halftime, with Maxi Araújo leveling the score in the 44th minute. The South American side then completed the turnaround moments later when Agustín Canobbio struck to hand Uruguay a 2-1 advantage heading into the break. However, Cape Verde refused to back down and restored parity in the 61st minute through substitute Hélio Varela. The equaliser came after a misplaced pass by the Uruguayan defence allowed Varela to break into space before calmly slotting the ball past veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera. The draw extends Cape Verde's unbeaten start to its maiden World Cup campaign, following its opening stalemate against Spain. In Group H, Spain sits atop the standings after a convincing 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia. Uruguay and Cape Verde are level on two points each, while Saudi Arabia remains bottom of the group with one point. The result leaves qualification to the knockout stage finely balanced heading into the final round of group matches. -- MINUTESMY

Cape Verde Scores Historic First World Cup Goal in 2-2 Draw with Uruguay

PETALING JAYA, JUNE 21 -- National bowling champion, Muhammad Rafiq Ismail continued to prove his superiority when he won the mixed open category title for the first time at the Kuala Lumpur International Open Bowling Championship MILO 2026 (KLIO26), today. In the action that took place at Sunway Mega Lanes, Sunway Pyramid, the 29-year-old emerged champion after recording a total of 2,020 pinfalls over eight games, seeing him fend off the challenges of 39 other participants, including several of the country's best players. Tun Ameerul Luqman Al Hakim Tun Hasnul Azam finished in second place with 1,918 pinfalls, while Megat Zaqrul Haiqal completed the top three after collecting 1,915 pinfalls. The victory completes Rafiq's hat-trick of championships throughout this month after also winning the Malaysia Open and Singapore Open, thus continuing his excellent streak ahead of the rest of the season. "I'm happy because of the three tournaments this month, I won all three. This is one of the sweetest achievements in my career," he said when met after the tournament. As the champion, Rafiq took home a cash prize of RM30,000. Meanwhile, he admitted that the victory came at the right time and was somewhat of a solace after his home was recently broken into, causing an estimated loss of RM60,000. "I consider this victory as a blessing and a replacement for what was lost. I hope it is the beginning of better things to come," he said. The tournament was organised in conjunction with the 50th anniversary celebration of the establishment of the Kuala Lumpur Tenpin Bowling Association (KLTBA). -- BERNAMA

Bowling: Rafiq wins KLIO26 mixed open title, completes hat-trick of championships this month

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 21 -- National squash player S. Sivasangari failed to win the 2025-2026 PSA Tour Finals title after losing 1-3 to world number one Hania El Hammamy from Egypt in the women's final in Paris, yesterday. Despite the defeat, the world number five player closed the campaign by emerging as the runner-up, thus presenting Malaysia with its best achievement in the prestigious tournament since national squash legend Nicol Ann David reached the final in 2012. Sivasangari, who was seeded fourth in the tournament, lost 6-11 in the first game before coming back to win the second game 11-10 over the second seed. However, El Hammamy regained control of the match and won the next two games 11-8, 11-8 to confirm the championship. Sivasangari booked her ticket to the final after pulling off a huge upset by defeating world number two and top seed from Egypt, Amina Orfi, 8-11, 11-10, 11-8, 11-10 in a semi-final that lasted 74 minutes. The runner-up's achievement continues his excellent performance throughout 2026 after also winning the Grasshopper Cup in Zurich last April. -- BERNAMA

Sivasangari emerges as runner-up in the 2025-2026 PSA Tour Finals

Opinions

There is a quiet frustration many Malaysians share today, often spoken at mamak tables, during lunch breaks, or in late-night conversations with friends: “Everything is getting more expensive, but my salary feels the same.” It is not just a feeling anymore. For many households across Malaysia—whether in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Johor, or smaller towns—the cost of daily life has gradually shifted from manageable to constantly stretching the ringgit thinner than before. But what exactly is happening? The Invisible Inflation of Everyday Life Inflation is not new. Economists have always reminded us that prices rise over time. But what Malaysians are experiencing now feels different—it is not just the price of luxury goods or big-ticket items. It is the small, everyday things. A plate of nasi goreng that once cost RM6.50 is now RM8 or RM9. A simple café drink that used to be RM10 is now RM13 or RM15. Parking fees, tolls, groceries, even basic household items—all seem to have quietly adjusted upward. Individually, these increases feel minor. But collectively, they reshape monthly budgets in a very real way. For lower- and middle-income households, the difference is no longer about “saving a little less”—it is about choosing what to cut. Wages That Don’t Keep Up While prices have moved steadily upward, wages in many sectors have not kept pace at the same speed. Yes, Malaysia has seen minimum wage adjustments and salary revisions in some industries. But for many workers—especially those in entry-level jobs, gig work, or small and medium enterprises—the increase has not matched the real cost of living in urban areas. This creates a quiet imbalance: people are working just as hard, sometimes harder, but feeling like they are falling behind. It is not just about numbers on a payslip. It is about the psychological pressure of effort not translating into stability. The Middle-Class Squeeze Is Real Perhaps the most affected group today is the urban middle class. They earn “too much” to qualify for assistance, but not enough to comfortably absorb rising costs. Housing loans, car payments, childcare, education fees, and daily expenses form a tight monthly cycle that leaves little room for savings. Even small disruptions—such as a medical emergency or unexpected repair—can throw financial planning off balance. This is where many Malaysians quietly feel stuck: not struggling enough to be considered in crisis, but not comfortable enough to feel secure. Lifestyle Changes Are Masking the Problem One interesting shift is how Malaysians are adapting. Instead of large visible protests about cost of living, the response has been subtle and behavioural. People are: Eating out less often, or choosing cheaper spots Switching from cafés back to home-brewed drinks Delaying major purchases Relying more on online deals and second-hand markets Taking on side income or gig work On the surface, life goes on normally. But underneath, spending habits are being reshaped by necessity, not preference. Why It Feels Worse Today Part of the emotional weight comes from comparison. Social media constantly shows a lifestyle that feels increasingly out of reach—trips, cafés, gadgets, and “soft life” aesthetics. At the same time, real income growth feels slow. This gap between expectation and reality creates frustration that is not just financial, but emotional. People are not only asking “Can I afford this?” but also “Why does everyone else seem able to?” Is This the New Normal? Malaysia is not alone in facing cost pressures. Many countries are going through similar cycles of inflation, housing challenges, and wage stagnation. But locally, the concern is whether this gap between income and living costs is becoming structural rather than temporary. If wages do not adjust in step with real-world expenses, then affordability will slowly redefine what “middle class life” even means in Malaysia. A Quiet Question for the Future Ultimately, this is not just an economic issue—it is a quality-of-life issue. How long can households continue adjusting before something has to give? Will wages catch up, or will expectations simply continue to shrink? For now, Malaysians continue adapting in quiet ways. They budget more carefully, choose more selectively, and stretch each ringgit further than before. But the underlying question remains unresolved: If everything is getting more expensive, what exactly are we working so hard for? -- MINUTESMY / SUGAN BALAN

Why Everything in Malaysia Feels More Expensive in 2026 — Even When Salaries Don’t Move

In a football landscape increasingly shaped by multiculturalism, few stories are as inspiring as that of Nishan Velupillay. The young Australian footballer has emerged not only as one of the country's most promising talents but also as a powerful symbol of representation for the Tamil and South Asian communities across Australia and beyond. At just 25 years old, Velupillay has already established himself as a key player for Melbourne Victory and earned recognition at the highest level with the Socceroos. His rise from Melbourne's football pathways to the international stage reflects the rewards of talent, determination and perseverance. Yet his significance extends far beyond goals, assists and match statistics. For decades, professional football in Australia has benefited from the contributions of migrants and their descendants. However, players of South Asian heritage have often remained underrepresented at the elite level despite their communities' deep passion for the sport. Velupillay's breakthrough challenges that narrative and offers a new source of inspiration for aspiring athletes from similar backgrounds. What makes his journey particularly compelling is the quiet confidence with which he has embraced both his Australian identity and his Tamil heritage. In an era where athletes are increasingly aware of their influence beyond the field, Velupillay has become an example of how sporting success can help foster greater inclusion and visibility. Young footballers who may once have struggled to see themselves represented now have a role model competing on some of the biggest stages in the game. His performances have justified the growing attention. Blessed with pace, directness and a willingness to take on defenders, Velupillay embodies the modern attacking player. His ability to create opportunities and change the tempo of a match has made him a valuable asset for both club and country. More importantly, he has shown a maturity that suggests his best years are still ahead of him. Australian football has often searched for the next generation of stars capable of inspiring supporters and driving the sport forward. While it is too early to place excessive expectations on any young player, Velupillay has demonstrated the qualities needed to become one of the faces of the national team in the years to come. Beyond Australia, his success resonates with Tamil communities worldwide. From Sri Lanka to Malaysia, Singapore, Canada and the United Kingdom, many view his achievements with pride. His story illustrates how sport can transcend borders and connect communities through shared aspirations and cultural identity. As Australia prepares for future international competitions, players like Nishan Velupillay represent more than just footballing talent. They embody the diversity, resilience and ambition that define modern Australia. Whether he becomes a household name or not, his impact is already being felt by a generation of young athletes who now believe that the path to the highest level is open to them. In many ways, Nishan Velupillay's greatest contribution may not be the goals he scores, but the barriers he helps break. That is a legacy that could endure long after his playing career ends. -- MINUTESMY / SUGAN BALAN

Nishan Velupillay: The Tamil-Australian Star Redefining Football Representation

The passing of Bharathiraja marks the end of one of the most transformative chapters in Indian cinema. More than a director, he was a storyteller who changed the language of Tamil filmmaking and redefined how ordinary people, especially those from rural India, were portrayed on screen. His death at the age of 84 leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of filmmakers and film lovers alike. Before Bharathiraja arrived in the late 1970s, Tamil cinema was largely dominated by studio sets, urban narratives and theatrical storytelling. Then came 16 Vayathinile in 1977, a film that broke conventions and introduced audiences to the raw beauty of village life. With dusty roads, green fields and characters who spoke the language of ordinary people, Bharathiraja brought realism to Tamil cinema in a way that had rarely been seen before. Many critics regard the film as a turning point that changed the course of South Indian filmmaking. What made Bharathiraja extraordinary was not merely his ability to tell stories but his commitment to telling stories that mattered. Through films such as Muthal Mariyathai, Vedham Pudhithu, Karuthamma and Kizhakku Cheemayile, he explored themes of caste discrimination, social inequality, female infanticide, love, honour and human dignity. At a time when commercial cinema often shied away from uncomfortable truths, Bharathiraja confronted them with courage and conviction. His influence extended far beyond the stories he told. Bharathiraja became a launching pad for countless talents who would later dominate Indian cinema. Actors, writers, technicians and musicians found opportunities under his guidance. His keen eye for talent helped shape the careers of many artists who went on to become household names. He was affectionately known as "Iyakkunar Imayam" — the "Peak of Directors" — a title earned through decades of artistic excellence rather than mere popularity. Despite achieving immense success, Bharathiraja never lost touch with his roots. His films consistently celebrated the culture, traditions and emotional complexities of rural Tamil Nadu. He gave a voice to communities that were often overlooked by mainstream cinema and ensured that their stories became part of the larger cultural conversation. In doing so, he preserved a slice of Tamil heritage for future generations. His achievements were recognised nationally and internationally. Over a career spanning nearly five decades, he won six National Film Awards and numerous other honours, including the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian awards. Yet his greatest achievement cannot be measured by trophies or accolades. It lies in the emotional connection millions of viewers felt with the worlds he created. In recent years, Bharathiraja faced declining health and personal tragedy, including the heartbreaking loss of his son, actor-director Manoj Bharathiraja. Yet even as age slowed him physically, his influence on Indian cinema remained undiminished. Today, as tributes pour in from across the film industry, Tamil cinema mourns not just the loss of a filmmaker but the loss of a visionary who changed the way stories were told. Bharathiraja showed that cinema could be both artistic and accessible, entertaining and socially relevant. He proved that the most powerful stories often emerge from the lives of ordinary people. The lights may have dimmed on the life of Bharathiraja, but the worlds he created will continue to live on. Every time a filmmaker ventures beyond the city to tell a story rooted in the soil, every time a film challenges social injustice through human emotion, and every time audiences connect with the authenticity of rural life on screen, Bharathiraja's spirit endures. Legends do not disappear when they die. They become part of a culture's collective memory. Bharathiraja is now one such legend.

Bharathiraja: The Filmmaker Who Brought Tamil Nadu’s Soul to the Silver Screen

Education

SUBANG JAYA, Malaysia, June 22 -- Taylor's University has been ranked 272nd globally in the QS World University Rankings 2027, placing it among the top 1% of universities worldwide. The position reflects the University's continued focus on delivering education that is purposeful, globally connected, and future focused. As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes industries and the nature of work, Taylor's is reimagining education through a human led, AI enabled approach that equips students with the knowledge, adaptability, and real world capabilities needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape. A key example of this approach is Taylor's Hybrid Flexible (HyFlex) learning framework, which combines physical, virtual, and self-directed learning into a connected learning experience. Rather than viewing AI as a replacement for teaching and learning, the University integrates technology to enhance personalisation, strengthen engagement, and support learning beyond the classroom. "Strong graduate outcomes reflect how effectively students learn, adapt, and create value in a rapidly changing world. As technology transforms the way knowledge is accessed and applied, Taylor's is committed to a human led, AI enabled education that combines personalised learning with real world application. We are preparing graduates with the curiosity, agility, and human capabilities needed to thrive in an evolving future," said Professor Barry Winn, Vice Chancellor and President of Taylor's University. Looking ahead, Taylor's will continue to advance personalised, industry connected, and purpose driven learning experiences while preparing graduates with the distinctly human capabilities that will remain essential in an AI enabled future. For more information about Taylor's University and its programmes, please visit the website here. About Taylor's University Taylor's University is the highest-ranked non-government-linked private university in Southeast Asia, ranked #272 in the QS World University Rankings 2027. This ranking places the university among the top 1% of global universities. Additionally, the university is ranked at No. 27 in Asia in the QS Asia University Rankings 2026 exercise. Taylor's continues to play a strong role in developing Malaysia's human resource capital, and boasts a 100,000-strong alumni, many of whom have become leaders in their respective fields. -- PRNewswire -- Source: Taylor's University 

Taylor’s University Ranked Among World’s Top 1%

STPM remains relevant, a competitive path to the ivory tower

The employability rate of KPKM agricultural TVET graduates continues to increase

KUALA LUMPUR, June 22 -- The economic impact of trade disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and measures to improve the haj management system next year are among the key issues to be discussed on the opening day of the Second Meeting of the Fifth Session of the 15th Parliament today. According to the Order Paper on Parliament’s official website, Datuk Dr Richard Rapu @ Aman anak Begri (GPS-Betong) is scheduled to ask the Economy Minister about the latest assessment of the impact of trade disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz on local industries, especially operating costs, and the national inflation rate for the second quarter of 2026 during the questions for oral answers session. He will also ask about the contingency strategies under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) to ensure the Gross Domestic Product growth target remains sustainable in the event of a prolonged global economic recession. Onn Abu Bakar (PH-Batu Pahat) will pose a question to the Prime Minister on measures to strengthen the haj management system in 2027, particularly with regard to costs, the waiting period, and pilgrims’ welfare and health protection. Wong Shu Qi (PH-Kluang) will ask the Digital Minister whether the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance Bill currently being drafted will explicitly address the misuse of AI, including the creation of deepfake child sexual exploitation material, identity spoofing and the dissemination of explicit content without consent. Datuk Dr Radzi Jidin (PN-Putrajaya) will seek clarification from the Agriculture and Food Security Minister on the short-, medium- and long-term intervention measures that have been and will be implemented by the government to address the impact of the Middle East conflict on national food security. Also on the agenda is the tabling of the Cybercrime Bill 2026 and the Road Transport Act (Amendment) Bill 1987. The Dewan Rakyat is scheduled to sit for 16 days, until July 16. --BERNAMA

Economic Impact Of Strait Of Hormuz Disruptions Among Parliament Highlights Today

HONG KONG, June 22 -- Payment Asia, a leading payment solutions provider, today announced a strategic integration with PayMe by HSBC, Hong Kong's highly popular mobile payment application. This partnership will enable all Payment Asia merchants to accept payments from PayMe's user base of over 3.3 million, significantly expanding their market reach and providing greater convenience for customers.  This integration allows Payment Asia's merchants to seamlessly process PayMe transactions through their existing merchant applications PA Pay and Smart POS Terminals. A key feature of this integration is the provision of real-time transaction data, empowering businesses with immediate insights into their sales and operational performance. Paul Tang, Chief Operating Officer at Payment Asia, stated: "We are thrilled to partner with PayMe by HSBC, a widely adopted payment platform in Hong Kong. This integration underscores our commitment to providing innovative and comprehensive payment solutions to our merchants, not only expanding our customer base but also enhancing the overall payment experience. The real-time transaction data provided by our merchant applications and Smart POS Terminals will further equip businesses with valuable insights to make better decisions." Lawrence Li, Head of Transaction Banking and Payments, Retail Banking and Wealth Management, Hong Kong and Head of PayMe by HSBC said: "Like any forward-looking city, Hong Kong needs a robust digital payment network to support its journey toward becoming a leading smart city. Achieving this vision requires a sizable ecosystem—on both the merchant and customer sides. Through our partnership with Payment Asia, we hope to play a key role in Hong Kong's smart city development: helping merchants reach over 3.3 million PayMe users, while connecting our PayMe community to a wider network of merchants." Together, Payment Asia and PayMe will bring merchants broader customer reach, a smoother collection experience, and deeper operational data insights. Both parties are committed to continuously optimizing the payment process, helping merchants lower transaction barriers, improve checkout efficiency, and win over more consumers in today's competitive retail landscape. Going forward, Payment Asia will continue to join hands with quality partners to build a more comprehensive and intelligent payment ecosystem for Hong Kong merchants.  -- PRNewswire -- Source: Payment Asia 

Payment Asia Integrates with PayMe to Expand Merchant Payment Options

PUTRAJAYA, June 22 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today welcomed Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, who arrived in Malaysia for a two-day official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation between the two nations. Speaking in Putrajaya, Anwar expressed appreciation for Tarique's decision to choose Malaysia as his first official bilateral destination abroad since assuming office in February 2026. “The visit reflects the close friendship and longstanding trust between Malaysia and Bangladesh and is a meaningful honour for our country,” Anwar said. Upon arrival at the Perdana Putra Complex, Tarique and his delegation were accorded an official welcoming ceremony, including an inspection of a guard of honour comprising 105 personnel and three officers from the First Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment, led by Major Nur Ahmad Zaim Zahari. The visit underscores the strong and enduring relationship between Malaysia and Bangladesh, which have maintained close diplomatic and economic ties over the years. Anwar noted that the official visit is expected to further enhance bilateral relations and create new opportunities for collaboration in areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment, labour, education, and regional cooperation. The two leaders are expected to hold discussions on a range of issues aimed at deepening cooperation and strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries. Tarique's visit marks an important milestone in Malaysia-Bangladesh relations and highlights the shared commitment of both governments to advancing mutual prosperity and regional stability. -- MINUTESMY

PM Anwar Welcomes Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Official Visit to Malaysia

Malaysia is often described as a cultural melting pot, but for those who call the country home, diversity is more than a slogan—it is a way of life. Home to Malays, Chinese, Indians, and numerous indigenous communities, Malaysia has built a unique society where different cultures, languages, religions, and traditions coexist while maintaining their distinct identities. From bustling cities to rural villages, multiculturalism shapes everyday life. It can be seen in the food Malaysians eat, the festivals they celebrate, the languages they speak, and the friendships they form. This rich cultural tapestry is one of the nation's greatest strengths and a defining characteristic of the Malaysian way of life. The Malay community, which forms the majority of the population, contributes significantly to the country's traditions, customs, and national identity. Islam plays an important role in Malay culture, influencing celebrations such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Hari Raya Haji. Traditional arts, music, and cuisine continue to thrive alongside modern lifestyles. The Chinese community has also played a vital role in Malaysia's development, particularly in business, education, and commerce. Chinese cultural traditions remain vibrant through festivals such as Chinese New Year, the Mid-Autumn Festival, and various cultural celebrations. Family values, entrepreneurship, and community ties are central aspects of Chinese Malaysian life. Meanwhile, the Indian community enriches Malaysia with its colourful traditions, cuisine, and religious practices. Festivals such as Deepavali are celebrated nationwide, bringing people together in a spirit of joy and unity. Indian culture has left a lasting impact on Malaysia's culinary landscape, language, arts, and social fabric. Beyond Peninsular Malaysia, the indigenous communities of Sabah and Sarawak add another important dimension to the nation's diversity. Groups such as the Iban, Bidayuh, Kadazan-Dusun, Orang Ulu, and many others preserve unique languages, customs, and cultural heritage. Celebrations such as Gawai Dayak and Kaamatan showcase the rich traditions of these communities while attracting participation from Malaysians of all backgrounds. One of the most remarkable aspects of Malaysian society is the way different communities interact and share in each other's celebrations. During festive seasons, it is common for Malaysians to visit friends and neighbours of different ethnicities through the tradition of open houses. Whether it is Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Christmas, Gawai, or Kaamatan, these gatherings foster mutual understanding and strengthen social bonds. Food is perhaps the most visible symbol of Malaysia's multicultural identity. A single meal can reflect influences from multiple cultures. Malaysians regularly enjoy dishes such as nasi lemak, char kway teow, roti canai, satay, laksa, and banana leaf rice, regardless of their ethnic background. Hawker centres, food courts, and restaurants serve as meeting places where people from all walks of life come together. Language further reflects the country's diversity. While Bahasa Malaysia serves as the national language and unifying medium, many Malaysians are multilingual, speaking English, Mandarin, Tamil, indigenous languages, and various Chinese dialects. This linguistic diversity enables communication across communities and contributes to Malaysia's global outlook. As Malaysia continues to modernise, its multicultural character remains one of its greatest assets. While challenges exist in any diverse society, Malaysians have consistently demonstrated the ability to find common ground through mutual respect, shared values, and a collective commitment to national harmony. The Malaysian way of life is not about erasing differences; it is about celebrating them. It is a living example of how people from different backgrounds can coexist, contribute, and thrive together. In an increasingly interconnected world, Malaysia stands as a testament to the strength that comes from diversity and unity. -- MINUTESMY / SUGAN BALAN

The Malaysian Way of Life: A Blend of Cultures

SUBANG JAYA, Malaysia, June 22 -- Taylor's University has been ranked 272nd globally in the QS World University Rankings 2027, placing it among the top 1% of universities worldwide. The position reflects the University's continued focus on delivering education that is purposeful, globally connected, and future focused. As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes industries and the nature of work, Taylor's is reimagining education through a human led, AI enabled approach that equips students with the knowledge, adaptability, and real world capabilities needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape. A key example of this approach is Taylor's Hybrid Flexible (HyFlex) learning framework, which combines physical, virtual, and self-directed learning into a connected learning experience. Rather than viewing AI as a replacement for teaching and learning, the University integrates technology to enhance personalisation, strengthen engagement, and support learning beyond the classroom. "Strong graduate outcomes reflect how effectively students learn, adapt, and create value in a rapidly changing world. As technology transforms the way knowledge is accessed and applied, Taylor's is committed to a human led, AI enabled education that combines personalised learning with real world application. We are preparing graduates with the curiosity, agility, and human capabilities needed to thrive in an evolving future," said Professor Barry Winn, Vice Chancellor and President of Taylor's University. Looking ahead, Taylor's will continue to advance personalised, industry connected, and purpose driven learning experiences while preparing graduates with the distinctly human capabilities that will remain essential in an AI enabled future. For more information about Taylor's University and its programmes, please visit the website here. About Taylor's University Taylor's University is the highest-ranked non-government-linked private university in Southeast Asia, ranked #272 in the QS World University Rankings 2027. This ranking places the university among the top 1% of global universities. Additionally, the university is ranked at No. 27 in Asia in the QS Asia University Rankings 2026 exercise. Taylor's continues to play a strong role in developing Malaysia's human resource capital, and boasts a 100,000-strong alumni, many of whom have become leaders in their respective fields. -- PRNewswire -- Source: Taylor's University 

Taylor’s University Ranked Among World’s Top 1%

HONG KONG, June 22 -- PhotonPay, a next-generation financial operating system powered by stablecoins, achieved significant recognition at the 2026 WAVES Summit hosted by 36Kr, a pioneering platform dedicated to serving New Economy participants. PhotonPay's Founder and CEO Lewison Chen was selected for 36Kr's "2026 36Under36" Entrepreneurs List, while Sales VP Joey Xu joined a featured panel discussion to unpack the strategic resilience and high-conviction execution required to scale a business.     Visionary Leadership: Driving the Next-Generation Financial OS The annual "36Under36" list recognizes 108 young leaders driving innovation across AI, deep technology, globalization, and emerging industries. This year's cohort highlights entrepreneurs who are not simply pursuing market opportunities, but building the foundational systems that enable long-term economic transformation. For Lewison, this recognition underscores his strategic foresight in anticipating the deep structural shifts of global commerce. It validates his leadership in transitioning payments from a fragmented network of disconnected tools into an intelligent, unified operating system.   Under Lewison's guidance, PhotonPay has established a robust global footprint, expanding to 14 strategic operational hubs across major financial jurisdictions, with a team of over 500 professional employees. Through deep technical and commercial partnerships with world-leading financial institutions, global card networks and banks, the platform now supports more than 60 major currencies, with its full product suite covering over 200 countries and regions. Today, this institutional-grade infrastructure is trusted by more than 200,000 businesses worldwide to secure, manage and optimize their cross-market financial operations. Abstracting the friction of legacy global banking, PhotonPay operates as a unified financial operating system, which encapsulates multi-currency banking networks and stablecoin rails into a single, programmable infrastructure layer. Clients can run their capital workflows via an intuitive portal, or seamlessly extend these capabilities to their business applications via robust APIs. This modular OS coordinates the entire lifecycle of corporate capital, enabling multi-currency collections, real-time global payouts, card issuance, on/off-ramping, FX conversions and automated reconciliation within a secure and efficient ecosystem. "Long-term infrastructure is never built on static formulas — it's built on the conviction to turn macroeconomic uncertainty into operational certainty," said Lewison Chen, Founder and CEO of PhotonPay." Being recognized on the 36Under36 list reflects not just what PhotonPay has built, but what we believe the next generation of global financial infrastructure must become: programmable, adaptive, and borderless. We are investing heavily in our global network and technical architecture so that payments stop being a cost center and start being a strategic engine for growth." On the WAVES Stage: Redefining Capital Velocity for Global Businesses Addressing the summit's flagship panel, "Riding the Waves Before Anyone Believes," PhotonPay's Sales VP Joey Xu aligned these capabilities with real-world market execution. "Global financial giants and legacy banks established the foundational networks of digital trade," Joey noted during the discussion. "PhotonPay's mission is not to disrupt this baseline, but to provide precise ecosystem adaptation. We translate complex, fragmented global banking structures into a tailor-made financial operating system optimized for the exact workflows of international businesses." Joey highlighted that multi-market organizations routinely drain liquidity and lose days of transaction velocity when transferring funds across disconnected collection, FX, and disbursement applications. PhotonPay resolves this by enabling businesses to retain global earnings in a multi-currency wallet, allowing balances to be instantly deployed for real-time operational expenses — such as global digital ad spends or logistics payouts. Unified approach like this has allowed PhotonPay to reduce global capital costs for its clients by more than 75% while boosting treasury operational efficiency by 60%. When discussing long-term execution in a volatile market, Joey identified three core pillars of PhotonPay's operational ethos: Long Cycle: Building institutional-grade payment networks, technological foundations, and international regulatory licenses requires years of deliberate cultivation rather than reliance on short-term market trends. Granularity: Global infrastructure success depends on a meticulous focus on hyper-local compliance matrices, regional clearing frameworks, and real-time FX fluctuations. Continuous Listening: Sustainable growth relies on maintaining an ongoing dialogue with the market to capture the shifting realities of global commerce. Moving forward, PhotonPay will continue to anchor its strategy in long-term infrastructure evolution, expanding the boundaries where payment technology intersects with core corporate operations. By pioneering the convergence of traditional finance with programmable architecture, stablecoin and agentic commerce, the company aims to deliver sustained value to the global trade ecosystem. About PhotonPay PhotonPay is a stablecoin-powered financial operating system built for the stablecoin era. Designed for modern enterprises, PhotonPay enables businesses to send, receive, convert, and settle funds across both fiat and stablecoin rails through a single, compliance-first integration, spanning 200+ countries and territories. For more information, visit [www.photonpay.com]. -- PRNewswire -- Source : PhotonPay   

Scaled for Global Commerce: PhotonPay Reinforces Market Leadership at 2026 WAVES Summit

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 22 -- The encouraging response to two Islamic bond issuances by Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) totaling RM2.5 billion for energy transition projects shows that Malaysia is in a strong position to lead the financing of energy transition in the region. TNB's new Chief Energy Officer, Mohd Zarihi Mohd Hashim, said the two sukuk issuances in 2026, which included RM1 billion for a solar project in May and RM1.5 billion for a hydro project in March, were each oversubscribed five times. He said that TNB's recent experience illustrates this trend, showing that there is a huge demand from investors that is increasing regionally and globally. "This achievement shows that investors are very interested in renewable energy assets (REAs) that are well-prepared and bankable, supported by a clear structure and solid business partners," he said. Mohd Zarihi shared his views on how Malaysia can channel available funds into well-structured projects to support the country's aspirations to achieve net zero carbon emissions, at the Energy Transition Conference 2026 (ETCon26) held recently. He said the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) estimates financing needs of RM1.2 trillion to RM1.3 trillion over the next 25 years or approximately RM50 billion per year. Globally, US$2.3 trillion has been channeled into energy transition projects by 2025, demonstrating that the availability of capital is not a major constraint. Mohd Zarihi said that the panel discussion session held at ETCon26 concluded that the more pressing challenge lies in the speed and scale of project implementation. Projects require stronger preparation, clearer contractual arrangements and stable policy signals to enable capital to be invested more efficiently. Risk-sharing mechanisms, including blended financing, are expected to play an important role, especially among small developers and new technologies, he said. The encouraging response to TNB's two sukuk issuances indicates strong demand among investors. The high interest reflects the institution's confidence in the utility company's energy transition initiatives as well as NETR's target to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. Energy transition financing includes renewable energy projects such as solar and hydro, green hydrogen, carbon capture, energy efficiency, electric mobility advancements and energy-related initiatives. Mohd Zarihi said that financing for energy transition projects is growing rapidly, placing greater emphasis on whether the project can be financed by banks and is ready to receive investment capital. Commenting on Malaysia's readiness to be a leader in financing the energy transition in the region, he said that the regulatory framework and climate-related guidelines have been put in place while the capital market has shown support for transition-focused instruments. "The priority at this time is to accelerate the channeling of capital into bankable projects, resilient infrastructure and large-scale implementation that support the country's transition aspirations," he said. -- BERNAMA

Malaysia in strong position to lead energy transition financing – TNB

ISTANBUL, JUNE 22 -- An explosion at a gas facility in Qatar's Ras Laffan Industrial City injured several people following a technical malfunction during operations, authorities said on Sunday. Anadolu Agency reported that Qatar's Interior Ministry said in a statement that the incident occurred at a factory in the industrial area and did not cause any dangerous leaks that threatened public safety. The Ministry informed that the relevant authorities are still continuing their efforts to deal with the incident. Meanwhile, QatarEnergy said the explosion and fire at the Barzan local gas supply facility occurred during start-up operations in the evening. The company said emergency response teams had the fire under control and promised to release more information as soon as it was available. -- BERNAMA-ANADOLU

Explosion, fire at gas facility in Qatar

BRISBANE, Australia, June 22 -- Allianz Care, part of global leader in insurance and assistance services Allianz Partners, has unveiled a refreshed Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) portfolio with new product 'Everyday Care Workers',  designed to better cater to a range of budgets in Australia's international workforce. This product offers practical and accessible health coverage, including uncapped general practitioner (GP) visits and admitted hospital benefits,  affordably priced from AUD 93 per month for Single policyholders.   The launch follows findings from Allianz Partners' customer research, which identified a growing group of recent graduates and skilled workers seeking affordable GP access without the higher costs of specialist coverage. The 2025 State of Student Healthcare Report identified 85% of respondents underestimated the cost of living. With rising living expenses and more than 59% of international students planning to stay in Australia after graduation, the Everyday Care Workers product responds directly to this shift by offering a streamlined, cost-effective health cover option. "Allianz Care has a long history of supporting international communities in Australia," said Miranda Fennell, Executive Head of Health, Allianz Partners Australia. "These updates demonstrate our ongoing commitment to providing health insurance that's clear, flexible, and truly focused on care, whether supporting international students transitioning from their studies into the workforce or welcoming international workers and visitors to Australia." This product launch forms part of a broader refresh of Allianz Care's OVHC range, featuring simplified product names and a redesigned online purchasing experience. The updates make it easier for international visitors and workers to compare plans, understand inclusions, and choose cover aligned with their visa, lifestyle, and budget. Demand for such coverage continues to grow. In 2025 133,891 temporary graduate visas were issued, up over 7% from grants in 2024 (124,687). This sustained demand for skilled migration underscores the importance of affordable health insurance as international students transition into the Australian workforce. International students and workers also make a notable contribution to Australia's economy. According to the Australian Government Department of Education,  international education was worth almost $55.0 billion to the Australian economy in 2025. The Business Council of Australia estimates that for every 1,000 migrants, there is approximately AUD 124 million in economic value per year. Through the new Everyday Care Workers product, and refreshed OVHC portfolio, Allianz Care continues to deliver on its ambitions to make health insurance accessible, practical, and supportive for migrants. For more information about the new OVHC portfolio, visit allianzcare.com.au. About Allianz Partners Allianz Partners is a world leader in B2B2C insurance and assistance, offering global solutions that span international health, travel insurance, automotive and assistance. Customer-driven, our innovative experts are redefining insurance services by delivering future-ready, high-tech, high-touch products and solutions that go beyond traditional insurance. Our products are embedded seamlessly into our partners' businesses or sold directly to customers, and are available through two commercial brands in Australia: Allianz Global Assistance and Allianz Care. Present in over 75 countries, our 19,400 employees speak 70 languages, handle over 58 million cases each year, and are motivated to go the extra mile to offer assistance to our customers around the world.    For more information, please visit:  https://www.allianz-partners.com/en_AU.html. -- PRNewswire  -- Source: Allianz Partners 

Allianz Partners Responds to Cost Living Crisis with refreshed Overseas Visitor Health Cover for Australia’s International Workers

MIAMI, June 22 — Cape Verde continued its remarkable FIFA World Cup debut by scoring its first-ever goal at the tournament and securing a hard-fought 2-2 draw against two-time world champions Uruguay in their Group H clash on Sunday. After earning widespread praise for holding European champions Spain to a goalless draw in their opening match, the African nation once again impressed with a spirited performance to claim another valuable point. Cape Verde made history when Gilson Tavares found the net in the 31st minute, giving his side a surprise lead and marking the country's first goal in a World Cup finals tournament. Uruguay responded just before halftime, with Maxi Araújo leveling the score in the 44th minute. The South American side then completed the turnaround moments later when Agustín Canobbio struck to hand Uruguay a 2-1 advantage heading into the break. However, Cape Verde refused to back down and restored parity in the 61st minute through substitute Hélio Varela. The equaliser came after a misplaced pass by the Uruguayan defence allowed Varela to break into space before calmly slotting the ball past veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera. The draw extends Cape Verde's unbeaten start to its maiden World Cup campaign, following its opening stalemate against Spain. In Group H, Spain sits atop the standings after a convincing 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia. Uruguay and Cape Verde are level on two points each, while Saudi Arabia remains bottom of the group with one point. The result leaves qualification to the knockout stage finely balanced heading into the final round of group matches. -- MINUTESMY

Cape Verde Scores Historic First World Cup Goal in 2-2 Draw with Uruguay

SEOUL, South Korea, June 22 -- Korea Deep Learning, a pioneer in enterprise-grade Document AI and vision intelligence solutions, today announced that its proprietary Document AI has secured the #1 overall ranking on ParseBench, a premier global document parsing benchmark organized by LlamaIndex.     ParseBench evaluates AI models on their ability to read, structure, and extract information from approximately 2,000 pages of complex, real-world enterprise documents across finance, insurance, and government sectors. In the latest evaluation, Korea Deep Learning ranked #1 overall in the VLM category with a score of 76.4, ahead of the next-highest-scoring models (75.0 and 67.8). The company also secured the top spot in Visual Grounding with a score of 78.8, establishing a commanding 19-point lead over the next-highest-scoring model (59.8). The win was driven by KDL-Frontier-Parser-nano, a 1.2-billion-parameter single model. Despite its compact size, it delivered superior accuracy against massive Big Tech systems at a fraction of the operational cost, proving that specialized AI tailored for business workflows can outperform broad, general-purpose LLMs. Its core edge lies in Korea Deep Learning's Near-Zero Hallucination technology, which simultaneously analyzes layout, field relationships, and spatial positioning to minimize error rates and extract data with context-aware precision. Trained on over 400 million images and documents, Korea Deep Learning's solutions support secure on-premise and SaaS deployments. Validated across major enterprise and public sectors, the technology powers administrative data restructuring for the Gyeonggi Provincial Government and serves over 80 major corporations, including Hyundai Capital and LG CNS—slashing document-processing times by up to 96%. Today's ParseBench victory builds on a consecutive string of global milestones. In March 2026, the company's proprietary Vision-Language Model, KDL Frontier, clinched the #1 spot in the English category of OCRBench v2 with a score of 68.1, outperforming other leading models. In recognition of this sustained technological leadership, Forbes Asia officially named CEO Jihyun Kim to its prestigious 2026 '30 Under 30' list in the Consumer & Enterprise Technology category last month. "Our strategy has always been to build specialized AI that decodes complex document structures as intuitively as a human, rather than focusing on massive LLMs," said Jihyun Kim, CEO of Korea Deep Learning. "This milestone validates our architecture as the most practical solution for the 'AI Agent' era, enabling autonomous decision-making and total workflow automation." Backed by an $8 million (KRW 12 billion) Series A funding round secured in December 2025 and a strategic partnership with NVIDIA, Korea Deep Learning is aggressively accelerating its global expansion into international enterprise markets. About Korea Deep Learning Founded in 2019, Korea Deep Learning is a premier vision intelligence and Document AI company developing enterprise-grade AI agents that automate document-based workflows. Its proprietary DEEP Agent platform combines advanced OCR, document parsing, and vision-language models to help organizations seamlessly extract, structure, and act on information from complex documents, images, and visual data. -- PRNewswire -- Source: Korea Deep Learning    

Korea Deep Learning Secures Back-to-Back Global AI Benchmark Wins Over Big Tech

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 22 -- Police arrested 349 individuals in 235 raids and inspections through Op Cantas Bersepadu at business premises, residences and construction project sites in Selangor. Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Director Datuk M. Kumar said that those arrested in the four-day operation starting last Thursday consisted of 280 men and 69 women aged between 20 and 83, including 85 foreigners. "Five of those arrested are on the list of wanted persons under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA) while another 34 are wanted for violent crimes and property crimes," he said in a statement on Sunday. He said investigations were being conducted against the 349 individuals, covering various offences under the Penal Code, Immigration Act 1959/63, Secondhand Dealers Act 1946, Societies Act 1966 and Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. Kumar said the operation, which was carried out with strategic cooperation from the Criminal Investigation Department, Special Branch, Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department and Bukit Aman Air Operations Force, the Malaysian Immigration Department and local authorities, focused on tracking and arresting individuals listed as wanted persons. He said the operation also aimed to track down identified organised crime groups, including crippling financial sources through enforcement actions against premises suspected of being a source of funding for the group's activities. Kumar said that in the same operation, two entertainment centres inspected were found to be operating without an entertainment licence, while 13 business premises were believed to be employing foreign workers without valid passes or permits. "Compound actions have been issued by local authorities against business owners who committed various license-related offenses," he said. The success of the operation, he said, proves the police's continued commitment in strengthening efforts to prevent and combat crime, especially involving organised criminal activities through the cooperation of various enforcement agencies. He also called on the public to continue to provide information regarding criminal activities to help strengthen prevention and suppression efforts for the well-being of society. -- BERNAMA

Integrated Op Cantas: 349 individuals including wanted persons arrested in Selangor