news and current affairs.
Anwar says Malaysia's role in peace talks is to facilitate, not impose terms
Malaysia confined its involvement in Thailand-Cambodia peace discussions to organizational support rather than dictating settlement terms, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim told parliament. The leader explained that his government facilitated meetings between the two nations without imposing requirements or forcing outcomes during the reconciliation process. Anwar recalled arranging a summit where he instructed both Southeast Asian heads of government to determine their own negotiation framework while Malaysia provided neutral coordination. The neighboring countries established all discussion parameters and reached their settlement independently, he emphasized when responding to questions about external criticism of Kuala Lumpur's mediation...
Anwar cites trade growth as proof Madani Economy is working
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim defended his Madani Economic Framework in parliament by pointing to trade figures showing resilience despite global uncertainties. The government recorded 2.235 trillion ringgit in trade between January and September, marking a 4.4 percent annual increase and the highest value on record, according to Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry data released last month. Anwar told lawmakers that economic growth could exceed current forecasts after the country posted 4.4 percent expansion during the first half of 2025. The premier highlighted currency strength and robust commercial activity as evidence that his policies are working, noting that Malaysia maintained positive momentum even as Washington...
Anwar says Sabah revenue talks to speed up after new govt forms
Malaysia will accelerate talks with Sabah regarding the state's 40 percent revenue claim after elections produce a new government, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced during parliamentary question time. The federal administration convened a special Cabinet session to review guidance from the Attorney-General before determining whether to appeal a High Court ruling that found Sabah entitled to four-tenths of collections generated within its borders. While preliminary discussions have begun, Anwar explained that substantive negotiations cannot advance until Sabah establishes its post-election administration. The premier indicated he would direct the swift resolution of outstanding issues under the Malaysia Agreement 1963, potentially...
Kudakwashe Tagwirei was awarded an honorary doctorate by a Ugandan university
Zimbabwean businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei received his third honorary doctorate in two years when Uganda's Bugema University recognized his humanitarian efforts and community service on Sunday. The ZANU-PF Central Committee member told reporters he values international acknowledgment of charitable activities he pursues to benefit society rather than gain accolades. Bugema University, a Seventh-day Adventist institution, cited Tagwirei's Christian leadership and dedication to humanitarian causes in conferring the degree. Solusi University previously honored him in 2023 for agricultural contributions to Zimbabwe, while Nigeria's Babcock University awarded him a doctorate in Business and Strategic Management this past July for his work...
Loke clarifies bus operators not forced to TBS terminal
Malaysia's transport minister has rejected accusations that express bus companies face mandatory relocation to Terminal Bersepadu Selatan, explaining that operators must instead use any properly licensed facility meeting safety standards. Loke Siew Fook told journalists that his ministry welcomes alternative departure points, including shopping centers like 1 Utama, provided they obtain appropriate permits and maintain adequate passenger amenities. The government plans to streamline terminal licensing requirements to expand operator options beyond traditional bus stations. Loke identified several potential sites, including Lalaport Bukit Bintang with its dedicated bus infrastructure and IOI City Mall in Putrajaya, as examples of...
PBS leader stresses unity for Sabah's progress and stability
Sabah Deputy Chief Minister II Joachim Gunsalam has emphasized that cooperation among the state's local political parties remains vital for sustained progress and investor confidence. The Parti Bersatu Sabah acting president told supporters that teamwork within the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah coalition outweighs individual credentials, warning that political discord undermines development while partnership delivers results. Gunsalam highlighted GRS's achievements since the coalition formed four years ago, noting that state revenues have climbed from below 4 billion ringgit to nearly 8 billion ringgit, with reserves reaching 8.6 billion ringgit. The alliance brings together PBS with five other parties and has advanced infrastructure projects...
KPDN confirms no fuel measurement violations in Penang
Malaysia's Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living has reported zero fuel measurement violations at Penang petrol stations operating under the Budi95 subsidy program. State director S. Jegan announced that daily rotational enforcement checks across all stations have uncovered no fraudulent practices or program rule breaches, with only three complaints logged since the October 30 launch involving technical glitches rather than operator misconduct. The ministry maintains specialized monitoring teams conducting continuous inspections of fuel measurement equipment to prevent irregularities. With the Northeast Monsoon season beginning, Jegan warned that reduced supplies of fish and vegetables could trigger price increases but...
Zahid says Cabinet reshuffle is solely the PM's decision
Malaysia's Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has clarified that cabinet reorganizations fall exclusively under the prime minister's authority and are never subject to cabinet discussion. The Rural and Regional Development Minister made the remarks when asked whether a special cabinet session scheduled for that afternoon would address reshuffling matters, following Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Ewon Benedick's resignation submitted Monday morning. Ahmad Zahid confirmed the special meeting would instead concentrate on Sabah's 40 percent revenue entitlement dispute. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will chair the session to determine whether the government should appeal a High Court ruling granting Sabah 40 percent...
Penang's sovereignty upheld in response to Kedah's claims
Penang state executive councilor Wong Hon Wai has reaffirmed that his state's sovereignty is legally established under Article 1(2) of Malaysia's 1957 Federal Constitution, which grants Penang equal standing with all other states in the federation. Wong, who chairs the tourism and creative economy committee, stated that after Kedah Chief Minister Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor announced plans to assemble a legal team for potential action regarding Penang's historical ties to Kedah. Wong criticized Sanusi for reviving a dispute spanning more than two centuries, urging the Kedah leader to concentrate on economic development and investment attraction instead of pursuing unproductive legal debates. The controversy stems from a 2021 demand by Kedah...
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