news and current affairs.
Speaker stays silent on Upko’s exit until formal notice is received
The Dewan Rakyat Speaker, Tan Sri Johari Abdul, stated he cannot formally address Upko's departure from the Pakatan Harapan coalition without receiving official written notification. He characterized his role as strictly procedural, requiring formal documentation before any action can be considered. Upko announced its exit, citing the federal government's decision to appeal a High Court ruling concerning Sabah's forty percent revenue entitlement. The party's president, Ewon Benedick, explained that his subsequent resignation from the cabinet was intended as a definitive protest to safeguard the state's financial rights. Upko currently holds two parliamentary seats.
Lada teams up with USM to study jellyfish after tragic death
The Langkawi Development Authority is partnering with a university research center to investigate jellyfish populations around the island. This initiative follows a fatal incident involving a young Russian child, who died from complications after a sting. The authority expressed its profound condolences to the family, acknowledging the tragedy's profound impact. As part of its enhanced safety measures, the authority will install more prominent warning signs and improve public awareness campaigns about seasonal risks. It also reiterated recommended first-aid procedures for stings, advising victims to rinse the wound with vinegar and seek immediate medical attention. These steps aim to bolster visitor safety across Langkawi's popular...
Sultan Ibrahim honours the royal family at the mausoleum on his birthday
In observance of his birthday, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, visited the Bukit Mahmoodiah Royal Mausoleum in Johor Bahru. The monarch paid respects at the graves of his late relatives, including Sultan Ismail, Sultan Iskandar, Enche’ Besar Hajah Khalsom, and Tunku Abdul Jalil. The ceremony included a Yassin recitation and a tahlil prayer session conducted by the mausoleum's imam, Masri Sapiran. Sultan Ibrahim also performed the symbolic gestures of anointing the graves with rosewater and scattering flowers over them.
Two Kelantan rivers surpass alert level after rain
Two primary rivers in Kelantan have surpassed their official alert thresholds due to persistent heavy rainfall. The Drainage and Irrigation Department reported that Sungai Galas in Gua Musang and Sungai Lebir in Kuala Krai both exceeded their danger marks. A separate survey noted that water levels in Sungai Kelantan and Sungai Golok are also rising, having reached their respective alert stages. The department continues to monitor the situation following a meteorological warning for prolonged rain in the region, which remains in effect.
Malaysia urged to speed up tech adoption in the energy sector
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has urged for a faster integration of technology within Malaysia's energy sector to maintain global competitiveness. He cited increasing demand, volatile prices, and the global decarbonization movement as key challenges. He identified digitalization, automation, and artificial intelligence as transformative forces. Fadillah, who also serves as the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, outlined national initiatives including renewable energy expansion, grid modernization, and establishing a hydrogen hub. He emphasized the importance of developing local companies and nurturing domestic talent to ensure long-term sector resilience. His comments were made at an Energy...
BN to name Sabah CM candidate after securing wins
Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated the coalition will only select a chief minister candidate after achieving a substantial victory in the Sabah election. He emphasized that any decision would follow the party's internal hierarchy and involve a consultative syura process with its partner, Pakatan Harapan. Zahid Hamidi expressed confidence in a strong electoral performance for the coalition, aiming to return the state to its trademark blue. He also addressed the issue of revenue rights for Sabah, pledging to personally advocate within the federal cabinet for the implementation of the MA63 agreement. He noted that current negotiations are a continuation of efforts begun by previous administrations.
Johor to introduce travel charge under new hotel law
Beginning next January, Johor will introduce a travel charge under its new Hotel Enactment 2025. State official Mohd Jafni Md Shukor announced that the levy would support public facility upgrades and tourism infrastructure, particularly for the upcoming Visit Johor Year. Revenue will be managed through a dedicated trust account. The updated enactment grants authorities greater power to investigate, inspect, and shutter unlicensed hotels. It also mandates that establishments adhere to strict safety and operational standards. Officials believe the regulatory framework will enhance industry professionalism and tourist safety. This initiative follows similar tourism levies already established in several other Malaysian states. Johor's...
Hiew defends Karamunting seat amid election challenge
George Hiew Vui Zin, the Pakatan Harapan candidate for Karamunting, expressed confidence in his re-election bid, citing his past two-term service record and strong coalition support. He stated that initial concerns over his party switch to PH were unfounded, noting acceptance from both voters and party members. Hiew emphasized that his primary focus remains on securing the seat to strengthen ties between Sandakan and the federal government. He portrayed the election as vital for establishing a state government that can collaborate effectively with federal authorities to resolve longstanding local issues. Hiew advocated for a government that would attract international investment and generate job opportunities, aiming to prevent youth...
Monsoon floods expected in three Kelantan districts
Authorities in Kelantan have issued an alert-level flood warning for three districts following persistent rainfall. Pasir Mas, Pasir Puteh, and Kota Bharu face potential flooding in their primary river basins. The Department of Irrigation and Drainage cautioned that water levels in the Kelantan, Semerak, and Kemasin river systems could rise with continued precipitation. It warned that flooding might not align precisely with forecasted timelines. Officials urged disaster management agencies and residents to remain vigilant and adhere to official directives. The public can monitor the situation through the agency's official online portal and social media channels.
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