KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 3 — Two men have been arrested after one of them allegedly confronted another motorist with a machete and struck the bonnet of his car following an overtaking dispute in Johor.

The confrontation was allegedly triggered after the complainant repeatedly flashed his high beams at the suspects’ car, which had suddenly cut into the right lane at a slow speed and nearly caused a collision.

Kulai district police chief Assistant Commissioner Tan Seng Lee said the two suspects, aged 26 and 30, were arrested in Forest City, Gelang Patah, after police received a report at 8.04am yesterday.

The alleged dangerous driving and armed threat occurred at about 5.50am on the Senai flyover heading towards Senai International Airport.

“Investigations found that the incident involved four men travelling in a car.

“It was triggered by the suspects’ dissatisfaction after the complainant repeatedly flashed his high beams at him because he had suddenly cut into the right lane at a slow speed, nearly causing a collision with the complainant’s car,” Tan said in a statement today.

Police said the suspects’ car then overtook the complainant’s vehicle before stopping abruptly in front of it on the flyover.

“One of the suspects then got out of the vehicle carrying a machete, shouted and ordered the complainant to get out of the car.

“The suspect also swung the machete at the front bonnet of the complainant’s car, causing the paint to peel off,” Tan said.

Officers from the intelligence and operations unit of the Kulai district police Criminal Investigation Division arrested two of the four men at about 7.10pm the same day.

Police seized a car key, a mobile phone, clothing, a black cap, a 30cm machete with a black handle and a black sheath believed to have been used during the incident.

“However, urine screening tests conducted on both suspects returned negative results for drug abuse,” Tan said.

Police are continuing investigations to establish the full circumstances of the confrontation and locate the other individuals involved.

The case is being investigated under Sections 506, 427 and 279 of the Penal Code.

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 3 — The Selangor Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) has halted work at an unregistered factory construction site in Kuala Langat after a crane collapse killed two foreign workers.

The department issued a prohibition notice today following the July 28 accident.

It also issued separate notices over the failure to conduct a risk assessment for concrete work involving a mobile crane, prepare a lifting plan for crane operations and appoint a site safety supervisor.

The two general workers, aged 40 and 44, died after they were crushed by the crane structure.

“Preliminary investigations found that the incident occurred while a concrete bucket, estimated to weigh 400kg, was being lowered using a mobile crane,” the Selangor DOSH director’s office said in a statement.

The workers were pronounced dead at the scene after suffering severe head injuries when they became trapped between a beam structure and the crane’s fly jib boom.

Their bodies were taken to Banting Hospital for post-mortem examinations.

“Following the incident, a team of investigating officers was ordered to the scene to conduct an investigation. A technical inspection found physical damage to the crane’s fly jib boom structure,” the department said.

“Further investigations also found that the project site was not registered with DOSH, while the main contractor and subcontractor failed to produce any documents relating to occupational safety and health management at the construction site.”

The case is being investigated under Section 15(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994.

MIRI, Aug 3 — An 18.7-foot-long crocodile was caught in Marudi earlier yesterday, making it the biggest catch for a group of licensed crocodile hunters in the area.

One of the group’s members, Goh, told The Borneo Post that the giant black-coloured male crocodile was caught using bait set on Saturday evening.

“We set up the bait at around 6.30pm Saturday not far from the Marudi bridge, and when we went to check it at 8.30am Sunday, we found that something had already taken the bait,” he said.

He added that the team was shocked to discover that the bait had been taken by a massive crocodile.

The reptile was the team’s 10th crocodile caught this year along the Baram River in Marudi.

Previously, the team caught five crocodiles in June and another four on July 18 following complaints from villagers about crocodile sightings along the river. — The Borneo Post

SUNGAI PETANI, Aug 3 — Civil servants working from home (WFH) will not face issues related to work performance as long as they meet the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) set, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar said.

He said KPIs are among the requirements considered before a civil servant is approved for WFH, alongside checks on internet connectivity and their place of residence.

“Before approving WFH, checks must be conducted on the staff’s internet connectivity, place of residence and the availability of the required KPIs,” he said.

“That is the responsibility of the department head. Every department head who approves working from home arrangements must be responsible for the approval given,” he told reporters after the handover ceremony for the upgraded recreation and sports facilities at the Intan Leadership Development (iLEAD) Park and the opening of Dewan Al-Amin at Intan Northern Region Campus (Intura) here today. 

Shamsul Azri said department heads are also responsible for monitoring the performance of civil servants under their supervision while they are working from home.

“For example, if Ahmad is assigned 14 tasks, all of them must be completed and submitted before he clocks out,” he said.

Under the Hybrid Workday (HBH) policy, eligible civil servants will adopt a new work arrangement, with three days spent working in the office and two days working from home each week, effective August 1.

Meanwhile, Public Service Department (PSD) director-general Tan Sri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz said no complaints had been received so far regarding the SPOT-Me system.

He said the system had been streamlined to require civil servants to only record their attendance when starting and ending work, instead of the earlier proposal requiring hourly attendance records.

“Staff only need to use SPOT-Me when they clock in and clock out. This improvement was introduced to reduce the burden on officers while ensuring compliance with the issued circulars,” he said. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 3 — Police have confirmed that no arrests were made on a group of Rohingya refugees who gathered outside the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) office here recently.

Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Fadil Marsus said the group was checked for documentation purposes.

“They were not detained and no arrests were made, but only checked and transferred to the Kuala Lumpur contingent headquarters for documentation purposes and released,” he said in a statement today.

The explanation was issued to correct an international media report claiming that the group was arrested as soon as they arrived in the capital by bus after being evicted from their settlement in Penang.

On July 29, Fadil said that the group would be transferred in stages to three states as stated by non-governmental organisations and UNHCR.

In a related development, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the Myanmar government agreed to accept about 5,000 Rohingya refugees currently in Malaysia thanks to negotiation and bilateral ties.

As of the end of February, there are about 126,000 Rohingya refugees reportedly registered with UNHCR in Malaysia. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 3 — Malaysian police are investigating whether a drug syndicate used flight crews and air routes to smuggle narcotics after a Malaysia Airlines pilot was accused of transporting RM45 million worth of ecstasy into Indonesia.

The Bukit Aman Narcotics Crime Investigation Department is seeking CCTV footage from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to establish how the alleged smuggling operation was carried out, Utusan Malaysia reported today.

The department’s director, Datuk Hussein Omar Khan, said checks showed that the pilot had no previous criminal record with the Royal Malaysia Police.

“For now, everything is still being handled by the Narcotics Crime Investigation Department team,” he said.

“We cannot disclose anything yet, and the subject has no record with the police.”

The pilot reportedly faces the death penalty or life imprisonment in Indonesia after allegedly smuggling more than 70,000 ecstasy pills weighing 25kg.

The drugs were estimated to be worth RM45 million.

Hengky Tomuan Parlindungan Aritonang, an officer with Customs at Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, said the pilot tested positive for methamphetamine, MDMA and cocaine.

Malaysian police have received official information from the Indonesian authorities and opened an investigation to identify the source of the drugs and those believed to have directed the suspect.

The inquiry will also examine whether a syndicate in Malaysia had been using flight crew members or air routes to move drugs across borders.

JOHOR BAHRU, Aug 3 — Johor DAP has expressed its full support for DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke to continue leading the party despite DAP and Pakatan Harapan (PH) suffering a setback in the Negeri Sembilan state election.

Its chairman Teo Nie Ching said the decision was made at a Johor DAP committee meeting in Kulai this afternoon, which also discussed the Negeri Sembilan state election results and their implications for the party’s preparations for the next general election (GE).

She said Loke’s leadership, as Negeri Sembilan DAP chairman throughout the campaign period, demonstrated courage, accountability and a willingness to shoulder the party’s responsibilities during one of its most challenging periods.

“Johor DAP respects the decision made by the people of Negeri Sembilan. The result is the voice of the people, which we must accept with a full sense of responsibility, humility and a determination to continue improving ourselves,” she said in a Facebook post today.

Teo also said that she had offered to resign as Johor DAP chairman to Loke on the night of July 11, when the Johor state election results were announced, but Loke asked her not to do so.

Teo also expressed her appreciation to Johor DAP members who assisted the party’s campaign machinery in Negeri Sembilan until polling day, despite the outcome not being in favour of DAP and Pakatan Harapan (PH).

The state’s new government was formed through a partnership between Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN), which won 11 and seven seats respectively in Saturday’s Negeri Sembilan state election.

PH secured 11 seats, while Loke failed to retain the Chennah state seat, which he had held for the past three terms. — Bernama

SONGKHLA, Aug 3 — A Malaysian believed to be one of the leaders of a transnational human trafficking syndicate has been arrested in southern Thailand after allegedly offering “coffee money” to Immigration officers to secure the release of three Chinese nationals without valid travel documents.

The 31-year-old man, identified only as Mohammad, was detained at the Songkhla Immigration Office alongside a Vietnamese woman, Nguyen Thi Thanh, 38, Utusan Malaysia reported.

Police said the pair arrived while officers were processing the arrests of the three Chinese nationals and two Thai men detained earlier during an operation on Asian Highway 2 in Tha Chang, Bang Klam district.

Immigration Division 6 spokesman Police Colonel Charoenpong Khantiloh said officers from the Songkhla Provincial Centre for the Suppression of Illegal Immigration intercepted a suspicious vehicle at about 2.30pm after receiving intelligence.

Three Chinese nationals without valid travel documents were found inside.

“The Thai driver and his companion, aged 39 and 46 respectively, were subsequently arrested.

“Both admitted that they had been hired by a broker to pick up the three Chinese nationals and take them to a hotel in Sadao district for a payment of RM3,666,” Charoenpong said.

Preliminary investigations found that the three Chinese nationals, who were believed to be linked to a scam syndicate, had entered Thailand from Cambodia through Sa Kaeo province and planned to cross illegally into Malaysia.

The five detainees were taken to the Songkhla Immigration Office for further investigation and the recording of charges.

“However, while police officers were preparing the arrest reports, Mohammad and Nguyen Thi arrived under suspicious circumstances. They attempted to negotiate by offering bribes, or ‘coffee money’, to the police officers in exchange for the release of the three Chinese nationals.

“The incident was reported to Songkhla Provincial Immigration Police chief Lieutenant Colonel Pongsiri Pitak. Police then pretended to stall for time before instructing investigators to examine communication records on the suspects’ phones,” Charoenpong said.

Police said evidence recovered from the phones led investigators to believe that the Malaysian was one of the leaders of a transnational human trafficking syndicate.

He was suspected of directing its operations, selecting pickup and drop-off locations and facilitating the illegal entry of Chinese nationals into Malaysia.

The Malaysian and Vietnamese suspects, along with the two Thai men, are expected to be jointly charged with sheltering, concealing or assisting foreigners who entered Thailand illegally.

“The three Chinese nationals will be charged with entering and staying in Thailand without permission,” Charoenpong said.

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 3 — Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) leaders are expected to hold talks soon over a possible electoral pact for the Melaka state election, state Opposition leader Mohd Yadzil Yaakub told national daily The Star.

Mohd Yadzil said Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh and Parti Wawasan Negara president Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin were likely to meet, although he declined to disclose how many seats his coalition expected to contest.

“I can’t reveal the number of state seats expected to be contested by our side, but I am optimistic that Barisan and Perikatan will reach an electoral understanding,” he told The Star in an interview published today.

He said the result of the Negeri Sembilan state election showed that voters were receptive to cooperation between the coalitions and expressed hope that the arrangement could continue in Melaka and at the 16th general election.

“In my view, the Negeri Sembilan state election carried a message far greater than merely a change of state government.

“It proved that when leaders are prepared to put aside political ego, show statesmanship and place the interests of the people, the voters will respond with confidence and support,” he said.

His comments came after Ab Rauf, who is also Melaka BN chairman, said yesterday that the coalition remained open to working with other political parties under a “Barisan Plus” formula for the coming state election.

Ab Rauf, who also chairs the Melaka Umno liaison committee, said BN was prepared to hold discussions with any party interested in cooperation, but stressed that negotiations would depend on the relative strength of those involved.

“Anyone is welcome to come and negotiate, but negotiations do not necessarily end with an agreement because everything depends on each party’s respective strengths.

“So, we are not bound by any arrangement that has yet to be formally established as a final coalition, but I am open to everyone who wishes to negotiate with me,” he said.

DUNGUN, Aug 3 — A female student at a private institution of higher learning (IPTS) was killed in a road accident while returning home from the RXZ Members 8.0 gathering at the Gong Badak Motor Racing Circuit in Kuala Nerus yesterday.

The victim, Arissa Shazzira Zainudin, 21, from Kuantan, died after the motorcycle she was riding crashed into the rear of a four-wheel drive vehicle at KM356 of the East Coast Expressway 2 (LPT2), near Bukit Besi, at 4.55pm.

Dungun district police chief Supt Nik Ab. Halim Nik Mat said the four-wheel drive vehicle had stopped in the emergency lane.

“The victim, who was riding a Yamaha Y125ZR motorcycle, is believed to have crashed into the rear of the Mitsubishi Triton before being thrown onto the middle of the road,” he said in a statement tonight.

Arissa was pronounced dead at the scene after suffering severe head injuries.

Her body was taken to the Dungun Hospital Forensic Unit, and the case is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 3 — It may be the Southwest Monsoon, a period usually associated with hotter and drier weather, but many Malaysians have found themselves reaching for umbrellas on most afternoons in recent weeks.

The seemingly contradictory weather has prompted many to wonder whether this year’s monsoon is behaving unusually or whether climate change is making thunderstorms more intense.

According to Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) director-general Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip, neither assumption tells the full story.

He said the recent run of afternoon thunderstorms was caused by temporary changes in wind patterns and the presence of higher levels of atmospheric moisture, rather than a shift in Malaysia’s seasonal weather.

“The afternoon thunderstorms that have occurred recently are due to changes in wind patterns and the presence of high moisture in our atmosphere,” he told Malay Mail.

“It is only temporary and weather conditions are expected to return to the normal, hotter and drier Southwest Monsoon pattern.”

The Southwest Monsoon, which began on May 14, is expected to continue until September. During this period, most parts of the country generally experience lower rainfall and more dry days compared with the wetter monsoon seasons.

MetMalaysia director-general Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip said the recent afternoon thunderstorms are temporary and were caused by shifting wind patterns and higher atmospheric moisture, rather than an unusual change in the Southwest Monsoon. — Bernama pic

However, Hisham said that does not mean thunderstorms disappear altogether.

“Hotter and drier weather during the Southwest Monsoon does not mean rain and thunderstorms will not occur,” he said.

“Changes in wind patterns and the presence of moist air can alter these conditions and produce more frequent rainfall, as we have experienced recently.”

Malaysia’s tropical climate also means thunderstorms can occur throughout the year, with activity typically becoming more frequent during the inter-monsoon periods in April and May, as well as October and November, when humid conditions and lighter winds favour thunderstorm development.

Hisham also addressed a common question raised whenever heavy afternoon storms disrupt traffic or outdoor plans — why weather warnings often arrive only shortly before the rain.

He explained that current forecasting technology has its limitations because thunderstorms form rapidly and over relatively small areas.

“Based on current technology, thunderstorm warnings cannot be issued too early because they develop within one to two hours and occur on a small scale of between one and 10 kilometres,” he said.

“For that reason, MetMalaysia continuously monitors weather developments and updates forecasts and warnings as soon as significant changes are detected.”

He urged the public to remain alert to changing weather conditions and obtain the latest forecasts through MetMalaysia’s official website, the myCuaca mobile application and the department’s social media platforms.

Rather than relying on the season alone, Hisham said Malaysians should expect weather conditions to change quickly and plan outdoor activities accordingly, particularly during periods of unstable atmospheric conditions.

MetMalaysia director-general Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip said thunderstorm warnings can often only be issued one to two hours in advance because the storms form rapidly and affect small areas. — Picture by Farhan Najib

Where did Malaysia see the most lightning and rain last year?

MetMalaysia’s latest climate summary also offers a snapshot of where some of the country’s most active weather has been recorded.

Subang, Selangor, experienced 294 days with lightning in 2025, the highest among the 42 principal meteorological stations monitored by the department.

Bayan Lepas, Penang, recorded 143 thunderstorm days, highlighting how frequently storms have developed along parts of the west coast.

East Malaysia also featured prominently in the department’s latest statistics.

Bintulu, Sarawak, recorded the country’s highest daily rainfall this year, receiving 516mm on January 1, while Kuching registered the highest annual rainfall at 4,974.2mm.

Sibu experienced the highest temperature recorded at 37.4 degrees Celsius on July 29, while Keningau, Sabah, recorded the lowest temperature at 17.5 degrees Celsius on September 25.

The strongest average daily winds were recorded in Bayan Lepas at 12.7 metres per second, while Kudat, Sabah, experienced the highest maximum wind speed at 23.3 metres per second.

Hisham also encouraged the public to stay updated through MetMalaysia’s website ([www.met.gov.my](http://www.met.gov.my)), the myCuaca mobile application and the department’s official social media channels, as thunderstorms often develop rapidly and weather warnings may only be issued shortly before conditions deteriorate.

For more information or weather-related queries, you can call the MET Hotline at 1-300-22-1638 or follow the department on all its social media platforms on X, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 3 — Two recent deaths from lightning strikes in Malaysia and neighbouring Singapore have served as stark reminders of how quickly thunderstorms can become dangerous and of the importance of taking the right precautions.

Victims of bad weather

Earlier this month, 28-year-old footballer R. Thanesh died after he was believed to have been struck by lightning during a friendly match at the Rakan Muda Lendu Complex in Alor Gajah, Melaka.

A referee was also injured in the incident.

Days later, a 24-year-old Singaporean man died after he was reportedly struck by lightning while kayaking and paddleboarding with a group off Pasir Ris Beach.

Seven others were hospitalised after being affected by the electrical current travelling through the water.

The back-to-back tragedies have renewed attention on lightning safety, particularly as many people still believe they are safe outdoors as long as it is only drizzling or until heavy rain begins.

Once thunder is heard or thick storm clouds begin forming, people are already in a lightning-risk area and should seek shelter immediately. — Bernama pic

Dangerous assumptions

Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) director-general Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip said these assumptions continue to place people at unnecessary risk.

“One of the common misconceptions among the public is that lightning and thunderstorms are separate weather phenomena,” he told Malay Mail.

“Another inaccurate belief is that lightning is only dangerous during heavy rain.”

He explained that lightning can occur even during light drizzle or strike up to 16 kilometres away from the centre of a thunderstorm.

“Once thick cumulonimbus clouds begin to form and thunder can be heard, people are already within an area at risk of being struck by lightning and should immediately seek shelter,” he said.

Malaysia’s tropical climate means thunderstorms can occur throughout the year.

While they are more common during the inter-monsoon periods in April and May as well as October and November, they can still develop during the Southwest Monsoon despite generally hotter and drier conditions.

Here are some of the biggest myths surrounding lightning — and what Hisham says Malaysians should know instead.

Myth 1: It’s safe to stay outside until it starts pouring

Many people wait until heavy rain begins before looking for shelter, believing they still have time while it is only drizzling.

Hisham said that is one of the most dangerous mistakes people can make because lightning often strikes well before the heaviest rain arrives.

The sound of thunder should also never be ignored.

“Lightning can occur even during light drizzle or outside the rain area up to 16 kilometres from the centre of a thunderstorm,” he said.

“If thick cumulonimbus clouds begin to develop and thunder can already be heard, people are already within an area at risk and need to seek shelter immediately,” he added.

Myth 2: I can finish my football match, hike or outdoor work before taking cover

Whether playing sports, hiking, working outdoors or riding a motorcycle, Hisham said people should stop immediately once thunderstorms approach or thunder is heard.

“People who are playing sports, hiking or working outdoors should stop their activities immediately if a thunderstorm is approaching or thunder can be heard. They should seek shelter inside a sturdy building or an enclosed vehicle,” he said.

He added that motorcyclists should not assume they are safe.

“Motorcyclists are also not exempt from being struck by lightning, and there have been several fatal cases involving riders,” he said.

He also advised the public to avoid hilltops or open fields.

Myth 3: Trees, gazebos and bus stops provide shelter

When rain starts falling, many people instinctively run beneath the nearest tree or into an open gazebo.

Hisham said these are among the most dangerous places to be.

“Tall and isolated trees are more likely to be struck by lightning, with electricity capable of travelling down the trunk, through the roots and across the ground to anyone standing nearby,” Hisham explained.

Likewise, gazebos, rest huts and bus stops without enclosed walls do not provide adequate protection from lightning.

Open spaces such as football pitches, golf courses and other fields also leave people exposed because they may become the tallest object in the area.

“People should also stay away from fences, utility poles, cables and other metal objects, while anyone swimming or taking part in activities at rivers, lakes, beaches or at sea should leave the water immediately and seek proper shelter,” he added.

Trees, gazebos, bus stops and open fields do not provide proper protection and may leave people more exposed to lightning. — Picture by Farhan Najib

Myth 4: Cars are safe because of their rubber tyres

An enclosed vehicle is one of the safest places to be during a thunderstorm, although not for the reason many people think.

“The protection is not because of the rubber tyres, the vehicle’s metal frame helps channel the electrical current from a lightning strike safely to the ground without passing through the passenger compartment,” Hisham explained.

He advised motorists to keep all windows closed and avoid touching metal parts or the vehicle’s electrical systems until the thunderstorm has completely passed.

Myth 5: Thunderstorms only happen during the rainy season

Malaysia’s tropical climate means thunderstorms can occur at any time of the year.

Hisham said recent afternoon thunderstorms were caused by temporary changes in wind patterns and increased moisture, even though the country is currently experiencing the Southwest Monsoon.

Hot, sunny weather should never be taken as a sign that thunderstorms cannot develop later in the day.

For those wondering why thunderstorm warnings often appear only shortly before bad weather arrives, Hisham explained that thunderstorms develop very quickly.

“Based on current technology, thunderstorm warnings cannot be issued too early because these storms develop rapidly within one to two hours and usually affect relatively small areas of between one and 10 kilometres,” he said.

Thunderstorm warnings are often issued shortly beforehand because storms can form within one to two hours and affect only small areas. — Picture by Farhan Najib

Lightning in every season

Even during the Southwest Monsoon — which is generally associated with hotter and drier weather — thunderstorms can still develop when wind patterns change and moist air moves into the country.

In other words, a sunny morning offers no guarantee that dangerous storms will not develop later in the afternoon.

The advice, he said, is ultimately straightforward: once thunder is heard or towering storm clouds begin to build overhead, stop outdoor activities immediately and seek shelter inside a sturdy building or an enclosed vehicle.

Waiting for heavy rain could mean waiting too long.

He also encouraged the public to stay updated through MetMalaysia’s website (http://www.met.gov.my), the myCuaca mobile application and the department’s official social media channels, as thunderstorms often develop rapidly and weather warnings may only be issued shortly before conditions deteriorate.

For more information, advice or weather-related queries, call the MetMalaysia Hotline at 1-300-22-1638 or follow MetMalaysia on X, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 2 — The implementation of the Hybrid Workday (HBH) Policy, which begins today for states observing a Friday-Saturday weekend, has been described as a positive step towards modernising and strengthening the digitalisation of public services without compromising service delivery to the people.

In TERENGGANU, State Information Department information officer Izamuddin Jusoh @ Md Rahim, 37, said HBH supports the Public Service Department’s (JPA) digitalisation plan and does not affect productivity, thanks to effective monitoring by department heads.

“My scope of work is flexible and mobile. I can confirm designs and review articles for the online portal from anywhere.

“It is the same for administrative and management tasks. Work can now be done anywhere, provided we remain contactable at any time by department heads or colleagues,” he said, adding that HBH is also expected to help him save up to 30 per cent on petrol, thus reducing environmental pollution.

Meanwhile, Information Technology assistant officer at the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living in Terengganu, Salida Said @ Saat, 41, said HBH provides flexibility for female employees in balancing career and family commitments, as various technical issues such as systems, computers or printers can now be resolved online from any location.

She said the implementation posed no issue for her, as she had previously worked from home, but stressed that supervisors must continue to monitor their staff’s performance and output.

In KEDAH, Siti Munirah Zainuddin, 46, from Yan, a civil servant at a government agency in Alor Setar, said she was able to work from home yesterday and today, and will return to the office tomorrow.

“I am among the early batch of employees to adopt hybrid working. Although I still have to drive to Alor Setar to send my child to school, I am grateful to have the option of working from an alternative location.

“I just need to ensure that all equipment and communication lines are in optimal condition throughout the working day. Not being in the office is not an excuse to take our duties at work lightly,” she said.

For Hafizul Amran Ahmad, 52, the HBH policy provides relief for him and his wife in managing the care of his ailing mother, as it allows them to better organise their work and personal schedules. He said many countries have successfully implemented similar practices, which have been proven to enhance productivity.

In KELANTAN, Department of National Unity and National Integration (JPNIN) director Zarina Zakaria stressed that HBH is not additional off days, but rather a work arrangement based on trust and accountability.

“Our priority is to ensure that public services, community programmes and unity initiatives continue to run efficiently and effectively,” she said.

The HBH policy, which allows civil servants to work three days in the office and two days from home or alternative locations, came into effect on Aug 1.

According to the HBH Implementation Guidelines, for states with a Saturday-Sunday weekend, mandatory office attendance is on Monday and Friday.

For Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu, which observe a Friday-Saturday weekend, mandatory office days are Sunday and Thursday. — Bernama

KOTA BHARU, Aug 2 — The Kelantan police have requested the Thai authorities to provide any information or evidence if it is true that the suspects involved in the shooting incident that recently claimed the lives of five of their (Thai) security personnel have fled to Malaysia.

Its police chief, Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat said that so far they have not received any intelligence information confirming the allegation, and monitoring by the Special Branch of the Kelantan police contingent headquarters (IPK), and all district police headquarters in the state have not detected any movement of the suspects entering Malaysia.

“Every time there is a shooting incident or bomb explosion in southern Thailand, there are often allegations that the suspects flee to Malaysia. However, until now, no evidence has been presented to us to support that claim.

“If they truly have information, pass it on to us so that immediate action can be taken,” he said to reporters after the PDRM (Royal Malaysia Police) Coordination Meeting with the Kelantan State Education Department (JPN) here today.

Mohd Yusoff said that since he started working in Kelantan, he has focused on efforts to close illegal routes along the border to curb cross-border activities involving smuggling, crime, and the entry of wanted individuals.

He said that with enhanced control, the allegation that crime suspects can easily escape to Malaysia should no longer arise.

“I welcome the Thai government’s plan to build a security fence approximately 90 kilometres long along the border area because this effort can strengthen control in both countries.

“In fact, Malaysia has also approved the construction of walls and security fences in border areas with an allocation of RM3.04 billion, which is currently in the implementation process and is expected to be completed by 2029,” he said.

Meanwhile, commenting on the meeting, Mohd Yusoff said that his team and the Kelantan JPN will strengthen cooperation to refine various social issues faced by students, including family factors and the role of parents, to ensure that interventions can be implemented earlier and more effectively. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 2 — Barisan Nasional (BN) has expressed its gratitude to the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, for consenting to the appointment of Datuk Ismail Lasim as the state’s new Menteri Besar.

BN secretary-general Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir said the coalition also expressed its gratitude for Tuanku Muhriz’s consent to the formation of the Negeri Sembilan state government through the cooperation between BN and Perikatan Nasional (PN).

He said BN was confident that Ismail possessed the experience, credibility and leadership needed to lead the state administration in a stable manner while always prioritising the welfare and interests of all the people, regardless of race.

“BN also hopes that Negeri Sembilan will continue to achieve greater progress under Ismail’s leadership with the strong support of all parties.

“May the new state government strengthen unity, accelerate economic development, improve the people’s well-being and ensure the state’s prosperity is preserved for present and future generations,” he said in a statement today.

Earlier, Ismail, who is also the Juasseh state assemblyman, was sworn in as the Menteri Besar of Negeri Sembilan before Tuanku Muhriz during a ceremony held at Istana Besar Seri Menanti in Negeri Sembilan.

In yesterday’s 16th Negeri Sembilan State Election, Ismail won the Juasseh seat with a majority of 4,091 votes, defeating Mohd Aidil Abdullah of Pakatan Harapan and Mohd Zuhaimi Md Yusof of Bersatu.

BN secured 18 seats while PN won seven, enabling the two coalitions to form the state government with a two-thirds majority. The remaining 11 seats on offer went to Pakatan Harapan.

For the latest updates on the state electionn, visit https://prn.bernama.com/n9. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 2 — Police arrested seven individuals, including two teenage girls, to assist in the investigation of a knife-point robbery case at a residential unit in Jalan Ampang last Friday.

Wangsa Maju district police chief ACP Annas Sulaiman said that the police arrested five men aged 22 to 38 and and two teenage girls aged 13 and 19 in the parking area in Jalan Metro Pudu here at 3 am yesterday.

He said the arrest was made following a report from a 21-year-old man who claimed to have been robbed at knife point by four unknown men while at the residence.

“All those detained have been remanded to assist in the investigation under Section 395/397 of the Penal Code for committing armed gang robbery,” he said in a statement today.

Members of the public who have information related to the incident are requested to contact the District Control Centre of the Wangsa Maju district police headquarters at 03-9289 9222, the Kuala Lumpur police Hotline at 03-2115 9999 or any nearby police station. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 2 —The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued a thunderstorm, heavy rain and strong winds warning for 10 states until 6pm today.

In a statement, MetMalaysia said the affected areas are Perlis; Kedah involving Padang Terap, Kuala Muda, Sik, Baling, Kulim and Bandar Baharu; and Perak covering Kerian, Larut, Matang and Selama, Hulu Perak, Kuala Kangsar, Kinta, Kampar, Batang Padang and Muallim

The warning also covers Kelantan (Pasir Mas, Jeli, Tanah Merah, Machang, Pasir Puteh, Kuala Krai and Gua Musang), the whole of Terengganu, and several areas in Pahang, namely Cameron Highlands, Lipis, Raub, Jerantut, Bentong, Kuantan, Pekan and Rompin.

In Selangor, only Hulu Selangor is affected, while in Johor, the areas involved are Batu Pahat, Kluang, Mersing, Pontian, Kulai, Kota Tinggi and Johor Bahru.

For Sarawak, the affected areas include Kuching (Bau and Kuching), Betong (Saratok and Kabong), Sarikei, Sibu (Sibu and Selangau), Mukah, Bintulu, Miri (Subis, Beluru, Miri and Marudi), and Limbang.

In Sabah, the affected areas are the Interior (Sipitang, Tenom, Kuala Penyu, Beaufort and Tambunan), West Coast, Sandakan (Beluran), and Kudat. — Bernama

SUBANG JAYA, Aug 2 — A small kitchen fire at a restaurant in Sunway Square Mall was extinguished even before firefighters reached the scene early this morning, according to the Selangor Fire and Rescue Department.

According to the New Straits Times, the department received an emergency call at 1.23am and dispatched a team from the Subang Jaya station. When the first engine arrived five minutes later, the blaze — confined to the cooking hood — had already been put out. Firefighters conducted overhaul work and inspected the premises to ensure no hotspots remained. No injuries were reported.

Eight personnel, a fire engine and a water tanker were deployed. Photos from the scene showed smoke lingering in the kitchen and soot covering the hood, ducting and stainless‑steel counters. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

KUALA PILAH, Aug 2 — Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim today pledged that the state government would continue to uphold the royal institution and preserve the state’s customs and traditions as fundamental pillars of its administration.

He said safeguarding the royal institution was the responsibility of every Negeri Sembilan citizen and remained essential to maintaining harmony and close relations between the monarchy and the state administration.

“As citizens of Negeri Sembilan, it is our duty. First, we must understand the state’s customs and traditions, and secondly, we must honour and uphold the royal institution in Negeri Sembilan.

“We must also find the most appropriate ways to minimise conflicts and related issues. That is part of our responsibility,” he told a press conference after taking the oath of office as Menteri Besar here today.

The Juasseh assemblyman said the commitment was consistent with the state government’s administrative principles, which prioritise the people’s interests and the state’s stability.

Meanwhile, Ismail said the state government would continue strengthening cooperation with the Federal Government to ensure the interests and well-being of the people of Negeri Sembilan remained a priority.

He said there was nothing unusual about maintaining the cooperation as Barisan Nasional (BN) remained part of the Unity Government at the federal level.

“BN, which forms part of the Negeri Sembilan government, is still a component of the Unity Government at the federal level. I see nothing unusual in continuing this cooperation for the benefit of the people of Negeri Sembilan,” he said.

On existing plans and policies introduced by the previous administration, Ismail said those that had benefited the people should be maintained and further improved.

“I believe good policies should not be discontinued. They should continue as long as they remain focused on serving the interests of the people. I see no issue in continuing them,” he said.

Earlier, Ismail was sworn in as Menteri Besar before the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, at Istana Besar Seri Menanti after receiving the Ruler’s consent to lead the new state administration. — Bernama

MELAKA, Aug 2 — Melaka Barisan Nasional (BN) is open to cooperating with any party under a BN Plus formula for the upcoming state election, its chairman and Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh said.

Ab Rauf, who is also Melaka Umno liaison committee chairman, said the party welcomed discussions with any political party interested in working together for the state polls.

“Anyone is welcome to come and negotiate, but negotiations do not necessarily end with an agreement because everything depends on each party’s respective strengths.

“So, we are not bound by any arrangement that has yet to be formally established as a final coalition, but I am open to everyone who wishes to negotiate with me,” he said.

He said this when met by reporters after the Jelajah Ketua Menteri Sayang Rakyat (MeSRa) programme at the Telok Mas State Constituency Development and Coordination Committee (Japerun) Complex here today.

BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was reported yesterday as saying that the successful cooperation between the coalition and Perikatan Nasional (PN) in forming the Negeri Sembilan state government would spur them to maintain its winning momentum in the forthcoming Melaka state election.

Meanwhile, Ab Rauf congratulated Juasseh assemblyman Datuk Ismail Lasim on his appointment as the new Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar at the conclusion of the state’s 16th election.

He expressed hope that Ismail would fulfil his responsibilities and deliver on the promises made in the election manifesto.

Ismail retained the Juasseh seat with a 4,091-vote majority after securing 6,907 votes in the state election, defeating Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate Mohd Aidil Abdullah, who polled 2,816 votes, and Bersatu candidate Mohd Zuhaimi Md Yusof, who garnered 506 votes.

The election saw BN win 18 state seats, PH 11 and PN seven, enabling BN and PN to form the Negeri Sembilan state government. — Bernama

KUALA PILAH, Aug 2 — Newly sworn-in Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim today announced a special public holiday for the state tomorrow, saying it is meant to recognise the efforts of those involved in the recently concluded state election.

Speaking at his first press conference after taking his oath of office, Ismail said the holiday had received the consent of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir.

“I would like to express my gratitude to His Royal Highness for graciously consenting to appoint me as the Menteri Besar of Negeri Sembilan.

“His Royal Highness has also graciously consented for me to announce a special public holiday tomorrow for the people of Negeri Sembilan,” he said.

Ismail said the public holiday tomorrow was intended as a gesture of appreciation to the people of the state and everyone who had worked tirelessly to ensure the democratic process during the state election proceeded smoothly.

“Many people are feeling tired after the election, so tomorrow is an opportunity for them to take a well-deserved break,” he added.

Ismail, 67, took his oath of office before the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, at the Throne Room of Istana Besar Seri Menanti here at 11.29 am.

In the 16th Negeri Sembilan state election, Ismail won the Juasseh seat with a majority of 4,091 votes after securing 6,907 votes, in a three-cornered contest against Bersatu’s Mohd Zuhaimi Md Yusof and Pakatan Harapan’s Mohd Aidil Abdullah.

Mohd Zuhaimi and Mohd Aidil secured 506 votes and 2,816 votes, respectively.

Yesterday’s Negeri Sembilan state election results saw BN secure 18 seats, while Perikatan Nasional (PN) won seven, thereby enabling the two coalitions to form the state government with a two-thirds majority.

SEREMBAN, Aug 2 — Newly sworn-in Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim said today that the composition of the state executive council (exco) will be discussed with Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi before a final decision is made, with appointments expected by Friday.

Speaking to reporters after taking his oath of office, Ismail said he would also seek the views of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan before the lineup is finalised.

“I will discuss it with the party president and seek his views on the appointments. There may be suitable suggestions that we will consider.

“His Royal Highness asked me to discuss it first. He also has his own views on the exco, so we will see how it goes,” he said.

Ismail said he hoped the appointments could be settled by Friday, adding that the ruler preferred the matter to be resolved as soon as possible.

Asked whether the current senior exco members would be retained, he said the matter had yet to be discussed with the Yang di-Pertuan Besar.

The newly appointed menteri besar also said representatives from both Perikatan Nasional and Barisan Nasional — including Umno, MCA and MIC assemblymen — would be considered in the formation of the state administration.

On his immediate priorities, Ismail said his administration would focus on improving the wellbeing of the people, describing it as the government’s foremost responsibility regardless of any 100-day benchmark.

“As a government elected by the people, their wellbeing is always our priority. Whether it is the first 100 days or beyond, that remains the government’s main responsibility,” he said.

He also said his administration would continue to uphold Negeri Sembilan’s customs and traditions, safeguard the state’s royal institution and work to reduce conflicts for the benefit of the people.

In the 16th Negeri Sembilan state election, Ismail won the Juasseh seat with a majority of 4,091 votes after securing 6,907 votes, in a three-cornered contest against Bersatu’s Mohd Zuhaimi Md Yusof and Pakatan Harapan’s Mohd Aidil Abdullah.

Mohd Zuhaimi and Mohd Aidil secured 506 votes and 2,816 votes, respectively.

SHAH ALAM, Aug 2 — Police are investigating a viral video on social media showing a brawl at the Pandamaran Sports Complex car park in Klang last Friday.

Klang Selatan police chief ACP Lim Jit Huey said the incident occurred at approximately 1.20pm involving two men, one of whom is a 16-year-old student. The other suspect was unidentified.

“The Criminal Investigation Division of the Klang Selatan District Police Headquarters (IPD) has opened an investigation paper under Section 160 of the Penal Code for rioting, which carries a penalty of up to six months' imprisonment, a fine of up to RM1,000, or both.

“The case also falls under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for improper use of network services, which carries a maximum penalty of one year's imprisonment, a fine, or both,” he said in a statement today.

Lim urged anyone with information on the incident to come forward and contact the investigating officer, Insp Mohammad Baaz Mohd Zohari, at 016-4117885, the Klang Selatan IPD operations room at 03-3376 2222, or any nearby police station.

Earlier, a video recording of the brawl between two men, witnessed by a group of individuals, went viral on Facebook and is believed to have taken place at the Pandamaran Sports Complex car park in Klang. — Bernama

KUALA PILAH, Aug 2 — The Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, today reminded members of the State Legislative Assembly to always place the interests of the state and its people above political or personal considerations in carrying out the mandate entrusted to them.

His Royal Highness said every elected representative bears a significant responsibility, as they are entrusted with bringing the voices, aspirations, needs, and concerns of the people to the State Legislative Assembly.

Tuanku Muhriz stressed that every policy, plan, and decision made should reflect those aspirations and remain firmly focused on the welfare of the people and the continued development of Negeri Sembilan.

“Your loyalty and commitment must always be directed towards the state and the people you represent, taking precedence over any political or personal interests,” His Royal Highness said.

Tuanku Muhriz made the remarks during the appointment and swearing-in ceremony of the Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar at Istana Besar Seri Menanti here today. — Bernama

SEREMBAN, Aug 2 — Barisan Nasional (BN) secretary-general Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir said the mandate entrusted to the coalition by voters in the 16th Negeri Sembilan state election would be translated into a responsible, people-centred administration anchored on stability, integrity, and the state’s continued development.

He said BN remains committed to upholding the politics of moderation, strengthening racial harmony, practising good governance, and working collaboratively with all parties.

“This is to ensure that Negeri Sembilan continues to prosper as a stable, progressive, inclusive, and thriving state for both present and future generations,” he said in a statement today.

Zambry also expressed BN’s appreciation to all voters in Negeri Sembilan, including Malays, Chinese, Indians, the Orang Asli, and other communities, for the confidence and trust they placed in the coalition during the state election.

“BN’s victory is not merely an endorsement but a significant mandate that must be carried out with the highest level of integrity, responsibility, and sincerity in serving all the people of Negeri Sembilan, regardless of race, religion, or background,” he said.

He said the election outcome, in which BN won 18 of the 36 state seats, reflected the people’s continued support for a political approach based on moderation, stability, and unity.

Zambry also thanked party members, campaign workers, election machinery, volunteers, and supporters whose dedication contributed to BN’s performance in the state election.

Yesterday’s election saw BN secure 18 seats and Perikatan Nasional (PN) win 11, enabling the two coalitions to form the state government with a two-thirds majority.

In the 15th Negeri Sembilan state election, Pakatan Harapan (PH) won 17 seats, followed by BN with 14 and PN with five, leading to the formation of a PH-BN state government.

The Negeri Sembilan State Legislative Assembly was dissolved on June 5 after the state BN withdrew its support for the leadership of Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun on April 27, triggering the state election

For the latest news on the 16th Negeri Sembilan state election, visit https://prn.bernama.com/n9. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 2 — Datuk Ismail Lasim has been officially sworn in as the new menteri besar of Negeri Sembilan before the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir. 

The ceremony marks a major transition in the state’s leadership, elevating a veteran politician and legal practitioner to the top executive office after more than two decades of public service in state administration.

Who is lsmail?

Ismail’s rise to the state’s highest political office comes as a continuation of his long-standing presence in Negeri Sembilan politics. Born and raised in Kuala Pilah, the 67-year-old built his early career as a lawyer, graduating with a Bachelor of Laws degree from Universiti Malaya. 

He practiced as an advocate and solicitor for nearly two decades from 1985 to 2004 with Messrs. Halim & Ismail before transitioning to full-time governance and political roles.

A political veteran

His political footprint in Negeri Sembilan is rooted in Umno and the broader Barisan Nasional coalition. Over a 26-year electoral career, Ismail has established himself as one of the coalition’s most resilient local leaders, successfully contesting eight state election races across two key constituencies in Kuala Pilah.

He first entered the Negeri Sembilan State Legislative Assembly in 1999 as the representative for Senaling, a seat he held continuously for four terms until 2018. 

During the 14th General Election, he shifted to the neighboring state seat of Juasseh, serving a term before returning to contest and reclaim the Senaling seat in the 2023 state election.

Experienced man

Beyond his legislative tenure, Ismail brings extensive administrative experience to the menteri besar’s office. 

He served as a state executive council member for over a decade under former menteri besar Tan Sri Mohamad Hasan, overseeing critical state infrastructure portfolios that included public works, utilities, water, energy, and telecommunications. 

Following the formation of the state Unity Government, he took on the portfolio for education and human capital.

Who is he in Umno?

At the organisational level, Ismail holds significant weight within the state political machinery. He currently serves as the chief of the Umno Kuala Pilah division and acts as the state chapter’s information chief, serving as a key bridge between party leadership and grassroots operations.

As he steps into the state’s top post, Ismail’s immediate focus will centre on finalising his new Executive Council lineup. Umno vowed to uphold “moderate” politics even as it partnered ultra-conservative coalition Perikatan Nasional, pledging to drive socio-economic growth initiatives across the state.

KUALA PILAH, Aug 2 — Juasseh State Assemblyman Datuk Ismail Lasim was today sworn in as the new Menteri Besar of Negeri Sembilan.

Ismail, 67, took his oath of office before the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, at the Throne Room of Istana Besar Seri Menanti here at 11.29 am.

Also in attendance at the swearing-in ceremony were the Tunku Ampuan Besar Tuanku Aishah Rohani Tengku Besar Mahmud, Tunku Besar Seri Menanti Tunku Ali Redhauddin Tuanku Muhriz, and Tunku Panglima Besar Tunku Zain Al-‘Abidin Tuanku Muhriz.

The ceremony was also attended by the Undang Luak of Sungai Ujong, Datuk Klana Petra Muhammad Faris Johari, and the Undang Luak of Rembau, Datuk Sedia Raja Hassan Ab Hamid.

Barisan Nasional (BN) deputy chairman Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and other state elected representatives were also present.

In the 16th Negeri Sembilan state election, Ismail won the Juasseh seat with a majority of 4,091 votes after securing 6,907 votes, in a three-cornered contest against Bersatu’s Mohd Zuhaimi Md Yusof and Pakatan Harapan’s Mohd Aidil Abdullah.

Mohd Zuhaimi and Mohd Aidil secured 506 votes and 2,816 votes, respectively.

Yesterday’s Negeri Sembilan state election results saw BN secure 18 seats, while Perikatan Nasional (PN) won seven, thereby enabling the two coalitions to form the state government with a two-thirds majority.

A total of 36 state seats were contested in this election, involving 103 candidates.

In the 15th Negeri Sembilan state election, PH won 17 state seats, followed by BN (14) and PN (five), leading to the formation of a PH-BN state government.

The Negeri Sembilan State Legislative Assembly was dissolved on June 5 after the state BN withdrew its support for the leadership of then menteri besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun on April 27, paving the way for the state election to be held. — Bernama

SEREMBAN, Aug 2 — Kuala Pilah Umno chief Datuk Ismail Lasim is among three candidates tipped to be appointed as Negeri Sembilan’s new Menteri Besar.

Ismail, 67, who is also a member of the Umno Supreme Council, won the Juasseh state seat in yesterday’s 16th Negeri Sembilan state election.

The oath-taking ceremony for the new Menteri Besar is scheduled for approximately 11am today at Istana Besar Seri Menanti in Kuala Pilah.

The two other names being floated are Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias, 62, the Negeri Sembilan Umno liaison chairman and Jelebu MP who retained the Pertang state seat, and Datuk Mohd Asna Amin, 47, the former state deputy speaker who won the Lenggeng seat.

At the time of writing, Ismail was among those seen arriving for the ceremony at Istana Besar Seri Menanti.

Barisan Nasional (BN) secured 18 state seats, while Perikatan Nasional (PN) won seven, allowing the two coalitions to form the state government with a two-thirds majority. A total of 103 candidates vied for 36 state seats.

Last night, BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi had an audience with Tuanku Muhriz at Istana Hinggap in Seremban to present three names for the Menteri Besar position.

In the previous state election, Pakatan Harapan won 17 seats, followed by BN with 14 and PN with five, resulting in a PH-BN state government.

The Negeri Sembilan State Legislative Assembly was dissolved on June 5, after Negeri Sembilan BN withdrew its support for Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun on April 27, paving the way for the state election.

For the latest updates on the 16th Negeri Sembilan state election, visit https://prn.bernama.com/n9. — Bernama

SHAH ALAM, Aug 2 — The Selangor Department of Veterinary Services (JPV Selangor) has launched a criminal investigation after a video showing a group of individuals restraining and dragging a dog by its neck went viral, culminating in the animal’s death.

According to the department, multiple complaints were lodged through the MyAnimalWelfare system at around 9.25pm on 30 July 2026 after the video began circulating online. The footage shows a woman pleading with several men to release the dog as they forcibly restrained it.

Initial findings revealed that the incident occurred the night before, at approximately 10.50pm on 29 July, during a joint stray‑dog capture operation conducted by the Klang Royal City Council (MBDK) together with residents of Taman Teluk Gedung Indah, Port Klang. The operation was part of the local authority’s efforts to control the rising stray population.

On 31 July, at about 11am, JPV Selangor’s Animal Welfare Team received the carcass of a male dog — believed to be the same animal seen in the video — along with an orange icebox from a local woman who surrendered the remains. A police report was subsequently filed under Pandamaran/008805/26.

Investigators have since called in both suspects and witnesses on 1 August to record statements under Section 112 of the Criminal Procedure Code. The case is being investigated under Section 29(1)(e) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015, which carries penalties of RM20,000 to RM100,000, up to three years’ imprisonment, or both.

JPV Selangor said it is committed to conducting a thorough and impartial investigation without prejudicing any party.

KUALA PILAH, Aug 2 — Negeri Sembilan will install its new menteri besar this morning, with the swearing‑in ceremony scheduled to take place at the Balairung Seri, Istana Besar Seri Menanti at 10.15am, according to a media notice shared via WhatsApp.

Sinar Harian reported receiving the invitation, though the identity of the incoming Menteri Besar has not yet been disclosed. Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said he submitted three names to the Yang di‑Pertuan Besar during an audience at Istana Hinggap last night, stressing that the choice rests entirely with the ruler.

“I have submitted three names… it is Tuanku’s absolute prerogative to choose one of them,” he told reporters, declining to reveal the candidates.

The swearing‑in follows the outcome of the 16th Negeri Sembilan state election, where BN won 18 seats, Pakatan Harapan (PH) secured 11, and Perikatan Nasional (PN) took seven.

The ceremony will formally mark the start of a new state administration as coalition leaders move to consolidate governance after the polls.

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 2 — Police are tracking down a foreign man suspected of molesting an 11-year-old girl at a business premises in Sungai Buloh, Selangor, on Wednesday (July 29).

Sungai Buloh police chief Supt Mohd Hafiz Muhammad Nor said they received a report from the Kampung Baru Subang police station regarding the incident.

“We are working to trace and arrest the suspect. The case has been classified under Section 14 (A) of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017,” he said in a statement today.

He urged those with information regarding the case to contact the investigation officer, Insp Muhammad Amirul Amin Shukor, at 013-6695290 or the nearest police station.

Earlier, a video went viral on social media showing two young girls being approached by a man at a retail store, before the man allegedly committed an indecent act against one of the girls.

The man’s actions sparked outrage among netizens, who called on the authorities to take appropriate action against the perpetrator. — Bernama

KUALA BERANG, Aug 2 — A 51-year-old man who went missing after rescuing his eight-year-old great-nephew from Sungai Pulau Kudat here was found drowned this afternoon.

Hulu Terengganu police chief Supt Sharudin Abdul Wahab said firefighters recovered the body of Harun Ibrahim from the riverbank at about 7.30 pm, about 100 metres from the spot where he was reported missing.

“The victim was eventually found on the riverbank by the Malaysia Fire and Rescue Department’s Water Rescue Team after the water level dropped during the search and rescue operation.

“The victim’s body has been taken to Hulu Terengganu Hospital for further procedures. Police advise the public to remain vigilant and exercise caution when visiting water recreation areas, given the recent spell of unpredictable weather,” he said.

In the incident at about 10.15 am, Harun, a former Social Security Organisation (Perkeso) employee who had kidney disease, was reported to have rescued his great-nephew after the boy was swept away by the current while swimming in the river. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 2 — A total of 30 candidates lost their deposits after failing to garner at least one-eighth of the total of votes counted in the 16th Negeri Sembilan state election.

Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu), which did not win a single seat and failed to defend its Labu seat, suffered the biggest loss, with 23 out of 24 of its candidates losing their deposits.

Also, the sole candidate from Parti Orang Asli Malaysia (ASLI) and Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) both lost their deposit, along with one Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate, and four independent candidates.

Finally, candidates in the 41 to 50 year category had the highest percentage in terms of lost deposits, with 36.11 per cent or 13 candidates losing their deposits out of 36 who contested.

Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) won a combined 25 seats out of 36 state seats, with PH winning 11 in the state election that concluded today. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 2 — Only three of nine women candidates who contested in the Negeri Sembilan state election prevailed over their opponents, according to the Election Commission’s (EC) official results.

Two of the women are from Barisan Nasional (BN) - S Leza Md Yasin, who won in Pilah and Siti Nur Umaira Hasim in Labu -  and one from Pakatan Harapan (PH), Nicole Tan Lee Koon in Bukit Kepayang.

S Leza (6,830 votes) won by a majority of 730 votes against PH candidate Datuk Noorzunita Begum (6,100 votes), while Siti Nur Umaira (14,209 votes) won by a majority of 5,279 votes against PH candidate Ahmad Faez Abdul Razak (8,930 votes) and Bersatu’s Mohamad Hanifah Abu Baker (1,985 votes).

Meanwhile, Nicole Tan defended her Bukit Kepayang seat with a majority of 15,207 votes by polling 24,096 votes against PN’s Lee Boon Shian, who garnered 8,889 votes.

The remaining six women candidates who lost in the state election include three from PH - Datuk Noorzunita Begum Mohd Ibrahim (Pilah), Zarinna Abu Zarin (Lenggeng) and Siti Aishah Seman (Gemas) - and one each from BN (Yap Siok Moy - Rahang), Bersatu (Noor’azah Harun - Ampangan) and Dayana Dal (Parti Orang Asli Malaysia - Jeram Padang).

Dayana, who made history as the first woman from the Semelai tribe to contest in the state election, lost her deposit after being able to secure only 179 votes.

A total of 103 candidates contested for 36 state seats in this election. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 2 — Thirty-five-year-old Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate Siti Nur Umaira Hasim emerged as the youngest winner of the 16th Negeri Sembilan State Election today, with Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan the oldest at 70.

Siti Nur Umaira, the Rasah Umno Puteri division chief, secured 14,209 votes to win the seat with a majority of 5,279 votes, defeating Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate Ahmad Faez Abdul Razak (8,930 votes) and Bersatu incumbent Mohamad Hanifah Abu Baker (1,985 votes).

The result saw BN wrest the Labu state seat from Mohamad Hanifah, who won it under the Perikatan Nasional (PN) ticket in the 2023 state polls.

Labu, which has 32,884 registered voters, is one of five state seats under the Rasah parliamentary constituency.

Meanwhile, Mohamad retained the Rantau state seat by securing 19,050 votes to defeat PH’s Dr Azizul Hakim Mahdi (7,032 votes) in a straight fight.

The Foreign Minister defended the seat with a majority of 12,018 votes, up from the 10,280 votes he polled in the 2023 state election.

Meanwhile, PN’s Kamarol Ridzuan Mohd Zain retained the Paroi state seat with the largest majority of the election, securing a 16,959-vote majority.

He polled 32,004 votes in a three-cornered fight, defeating PH’s Ahmad Shahir Mohd Shah (15,045 votes) and Bersatu’s Mohd Nazree Mohd Yunus (2,205 votes).

Kamarol Ridzuan’s winning majority also more than tripled the 5,539 votes he secured in the 2023 state polls.

The 16th Negeri Sembilan state election saw 103 candidates vying for 36 state seats. — Bernama

SHAH ALAM, Aug 2 — The Selangor state government will review the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for managing stray animals across all local authorities to ensure enforcement operations are carried out more effectively, safely and humanely.

Local Government and Tourism Committee chairman Datuk Ng Suee Lim said the review would include training programmes, operational procedures and closer collaboration with the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) and other stakeholders.

“The state government remains committed to safeguarding public safety, while at the same time enhancing animal welfare practices and upholding public trust in the integrity and professionalism of government agencies,” he said in a statement yesterday.

Ng said the state government also expressed its appreciation for the advice of Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin, who emphasised the importance of compassion towards animals and the principle that no one is above the law.

“Such values will continue to guide the state government’s policies and decisions,” he said.

Ng said his office was also aware of the police report filed by the Klang Royal City Council (MBDK) following the death of a dog during a stray dog enforcement operation carried out in Teluk Gedung Indah, Port Klang.

He said the state government would leave it entirely to the police to conduct an independent, transparent and professional investigation, while urging all parties to respect the process and refrain from speculation.

“The Selangor state government regrets the incident and considers it a serious matter, as public safety and animal welfare are responsibilities that must be carefully balanced.

“Every enforcement operation must be carried out professionally, responsibly and in compliance with the law and established standard operating procedures,” he said.

Earlier, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin expressed sadness, disappointment and anger over ongoing cases of cruelty towards pets and stray animals, particularly dogs and cats, which have recently gained attention online.

Istana Alam Shah said Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin also urged the federal government to reassess the penalties under the Animal Welfare Act 2015 to ensure stricter punishment for animal cruelty offenders and more consistent enforcement. — Bernama

SEREMBAN, Aug 2 — Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said that the coalition has submitted three names of candidates for the position of Menteri Besar to the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir.

The Umno president said he delivered the official letter during an audience with Tuanku Muhriz at Istana Hinggap here tonight.

“I submitted the three names at His Royal Highness’s discretion for consent, and it is His Royal Highness’s absolute right to choose one of the names presented as the candidate for the new Menteri Besar of Negeri Sembilan,” he said.

He made these remarks when met by reporters after concluding his audience with Tuanku Muhriz at the Istana Hinggap.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also the deputy prime minister, however, did not reveal the names of the candidates presented, stating that any decision regarding the matter will be announced by the palace.

“Alhamdulillah, congratulations to all BN candidates. I have been called upon to have an audience tonight, and the palace will issue a statement as soon as possible.

“With these 25 seats, with His Majesty’s consent, the BN and Perikatan Nasional (PN) government will be formed as the new government for Negeri Sembilan,” he said.

Earlier, Tuanku Muhriz granted an audience to Ahmad Zahid at approximately 10 pm.

Meanwhile, Ahmad Zahid added via a Facebook post that during the audience session, he presented the election results as well as the agreement reached between BN and PN.

He said BN expresses its utmost gratitude for His Majesty’s consent and will carry out the trust with full responsibility, based on the Negeri Sembilan State Constitution as well as the principles of stability, prosperity, and the well-being of all citizens in the state.

He added that BN will continue to uphold, preserve, and respect the royal institution as the umbrella of the state’s sovereignty, a symbol of the people’s unity, and the core of the Constitutional Monarchy system.

“May Allah SWT continue to bestow His grace, wisdom, and guidance upon His Royal Highness Tuanku in reigning over Negeri Sembilan Darul Khusus and all its people. Long live Tuanku,” he said. — Bernama

SEREMBAN, Aug 2 — All Pakatan Harapan (PH) leaders will take collective responsibility for the coalition’s defeat in the Negeri Sembilan state election, PH election director Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said last night.

He said the coalition’s leadership, from the highest level down to the grassroots, would shoulder responsibility collectively, stressing that no individual, group, community or faction would be singled out for blame.

“As the leaders of Pakatan Harapan, we all take collective responsibility. It is not about pointing fingers at any person, group, community or any clique.

“We will take responsibility collectively, from the top leadership to the grassroots of the organisation,” he told reporters at the PH command centre here last night.

According to unofficial results, PH has garnered 11 of 36 seats it contested in the election, while Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) secured 18 and seven seats respectively.

Commenting on the factors behind the defeat, Amirudin, who is also Selangor Menteri Besar, said the coalition had done its best to convey its message through social media, mainstream media and extensive house-to-house campaigning by its candidates.

He said the coalition was confident its election manifesto had been widely distributed across Negeri Sembilan, but acknowledged that it failed to resonate as a key campaign issue.

“Unfortunately, the manifesto did not become a topic of discussion. Instead, the debate centred more on whether this was about Malays or non-Malays, or whether people supported DAP or not,” he said.

The PKR vice-president said the outcome was neither a “blue wave” nor a “green wave”, but rather reflected politics centred on identity.

He said the coalition would use the roughly one year remaining before the next general election to realign its political messaging, with greater emphasis on the government’s performance, policies and service delivery.

“I hope the Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) and our team can realign our political message to make sure we go back to focus on values, performance, data and the government’s service to the people,” he said, adding that PH would also turn its attention to preparations for the Melaka state election.

Amirudin also thanked the people of Negeri Sembilan for fulfilling their civic duty by voting, as well as the Election Commission (EC), security personnel, media organisations, volunteers and party workers for ensuring the polling process ran smoothly.

As a mark of appreciation for voters’ support, Amirudin said PH candidates would continue engaging with residents in their respective constituencies, while its elected representatives would remain focused on serving the people through value-based politics, strong performance and effective service delivery.

A total of 103 candidates contested the 36 state seats in the election.

In the 2023 state election, PH won 17 seats, followed by BN (14) and PN (five).

For the latest updates on the state polls, visit https://prn.bernama.com/n9. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 2 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the federal government will continue to extend its support and cooperation to the new Negeri Sembilan state government for the well-being and prosperity of the state and its people.

In a Facebook post, Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman, congratulated Barisan Nasional (BN) on the mandate given by the people of Negeri Sembilan in today’s state election.

“I would also like to express my appreciation to the people of Negeri Sembilan for placing their trust in PH and Datuk Seri Utama Aminuddin Harun as Menteri Besar over the past eight years.

“Alhamdulillah, throughout that period, PH has left behind a legacy of excellent governance founded on good governance, stability and development that benefited the people,” he said.

Anwar also expressed hope that the legacy would continue to be strengthened for the progress of Negeri Sembilan.

Earlier, BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced that BN and Perikatan Nasional (PN) would form the Negeri Sembilan state government after securing a two-thirds majority win in the state polls.

Ahmad Zahid said unofficial results showed that BN won 18 seats while PN secured seven seats.

The Negeri Sembilan State Legislative Assembly has 36 seats. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 2 — Negeri Sembilan woke up to a transformed political landscape this morning after voters decisively handed control of the state to a Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) alliance.

The results from yesterday’s polls have sent shockwaves through the political establishment, with the new coalition securing 25 of the 36 state seats.

The outcome effectively toppled the Pakatan Harapan (PH) administration and unseated two of the coalition’s most powerful figures: DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke and caretaker Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.

Unofficial data from the Election Commission (EC) indicated that BN emerged as the largest bloc with 18 seats, while PN took seven. PH was left with just 11 seats, falling well short of the 19-seat majority required to retain power.

The election dealt PH its most bruising blow since it first took the state in 2018. The fall of Loke and Aminuddin stood out as the night's most significant giant-killing acts. Loke, who had represented Chennah since 2013, lost his seat by a slim margin of 491 votes.

Aminuddin, meanwhile, saw his gamble to contest the BN stronghold of Linggi backfire, losing by 1,668 votes after vacating his long-held safe seat in Sikamat.

According to Professor Datuk Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi of Universiti Malaya’s Academy of Malay Studies, the results signal a systemic crisis for PH rather than a mere loss of individuals.

DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke speaks at the Pakatan Harapan Dinner in conjunction with the Negeri Sembilan State Election campaign in Seremban on July 19, 2026. — Bernama pic

“PH did not just lose ordinary candidates. It lost its secretary-general and its menteri besar candidate,” he said.

“In my view, this suggests that personal reputation, ministerial positions and governing records were no longer enough when faced with a broader political wave, strong party machinery and a united opposition.”

Awang Azman noted that the outcome suggests voters were responding to a broader shift in political sentiment. He described Loke’s defeat as a watershed moment, given that Chennah was previously considered a DAP fortress.

“The election results give a signal that mixed and non-Malay-majority constituencies could no longer be regarded as automatic strongholds for DAP.

“The outcome may have reflected a combination of lower turnout among PH supporters, some swing votes returning to BN, and more consolidated Malay support for the BN-PN alliance,” Awang Azman said.

While Loke remains the MP for Seremban and the federal transport minister, analysts believe the loss will force DAP to fundamentally overhaul its grassroots strategy and its engagement with rural Malay voters.

Aminuddin’s defeat carries equally heavy implications. By contesting Linggi, a seat that has never slipped from BN’s grasp, the caretaker MB took a risk that ultimately left PH without its primary leadership candidate in the state.

“The result could trigger a reshuffle of PKR’s state leadership and the search for a new leader with strong local roots, cross-community appeal and the ability to rebuild the party beyond Seremban,” Awang Azman added.

Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi follows the latest developments of the 16th Negeri Sembilan State Election alongside BN secretary-general Datuk Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki at the BN Command Centre in Wisma Umno Negeri Sembilan, Seremban on August 1, 2026. — Bernama pic

Azmi Hassan, a senior fellow at Akademi Nusantara, credited the BN-PN victory to a potent mobilisation of the Malay electorate. He noted that turnout in Malay-majority constituencies was significantly higher than in the 2023 state polls.

“I think many Malays felt threatened during the campaign, and a number of issues resonated strongly with them,” he said.

“Although the Adat Perpatih was not explicitly raised as a campaign issue, I believe it remained at the back of many Malay voters’ minds. That, in my view, is one of the reasons BN and PN performed so well.”

Azmi labelled Aminuddin’s move to Linggi a strategic error, noting that the seat’s deep-rooted BN support was too entrenched to be overcome.

A similar pattern played out in Chennah, where a high Malay turnout tipped the scales in BN’s favour. While engagement in Chinese-majority seats rose compared to 2023, it failed to match the momentum seen in Malay heartlands.

Awang Azman said that the BN-PN cooperation successfully consolidated a Malay vote that was previously split between Umno and PAS. However, he cautioned that the alliance must now prove it can govern as a stable, long-term ideological union.

“The election suggested Negeri Sembilan politics had shifted from being driven primarily by personalities to being shaped more by political momentum, party organisation and coalition strength.

“Loke’s national profile was not enough to save Chennah, while Aminuddin’s eight years as menteri besar could not overcome BN’s entrenched strength in Linggi,” Awang Azman said.

As the new government prepares to take office, PH is left to navigate a difficult post-mortem, facing significant challenges to its narrative and organisation ahead of the next general election.

Full results (unofficial):

BN (18 seats): Chennah, Pertang, Sungai Lui, Palong, Jeram Padang, Lenggeng, Juasseh, Seri Menanti, Senaling, Pilah, Johol, Labu, Chembong, Rantau, Kota, Linggi, Gemencheh, and Repah.

PN (7 seats): Klawang, Serting, Sikamat, Ampangan, Paroi, Bagan Pinang, and Gemas.

PH (11 seats): Bahau, Nilai, Lobak, Temiang, Bukit Kepayang, Rahang, Mambau, Seremban Jaya, Chuah, Lukut, and Sri Tanjung.

SEREMBAN, Aug 1 — Pakatan Harapan (PH) has attributed its dismal performance in today’s Negeri Sembilan state election to "racial and identity politics," cautioning that such polarising tactics threaten to fracture the state’s multi-ethnic social fabric.

The coalition’s Election Department confirmed that PH unofficially won in only 11 of the 36 seats contested. This result leaves them a distant third behind Barisan Nasional (BN), which has 18 seats, and Perikatan Nasional (PN), seven.

“This state election witnessed an extraordinary campaign of racial politics based almost entirely on identity, which has the potential to sow division within society and the state.

“Such an approach is capable of creating anxiety and feelings of suspicion among the people, particularly between the Malay community and the non-Malay community,” the coalition said.

Together, the BN-PN informal alliance commands a two-thirds majority, clearing the path for them to form the next state government.

The outcome signals a dramatic collapse in support compared to the 2023 state polls, where PH previously held 17 seats, BN 14, and PN five.

Significantly, the state election also saw the defeat of DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke, who lost his Chennah seat to MCA’s Siow Kong Choon by a margin of 491 votes.

At a press conference at Wisma Umno Negeri Sembilan earlier tonight, BN chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi confirmed that BN and PN will now initiate discussions to formalise the new administration.

The election saw a 65.38 per cent turnout, with 562,133 out of 859,760 registered voters casting their ballots across 36 constituencies.

While PH said it accepted the results, it maintained that the campaign discourse was steered away from nation-building.

The coalition argued that the future of Negeri Sembilan should rest on “fundamental issues such as the local economy, employment opportunities for the younger generation, children’s education, the cost of living, and public welfare, rather than politics that frightens the people.”

PH instead advocated for a return to values-based politics that upholds the dignity of all Malaysians.

Despite the heavy losses, PH expressed its gratitude to voters, Election Commission staff, security forces, and its own grassroots machinery for ensuring a smooth polling process.

The coalition announced that all 36 candidates will return to their constituencies tomorrow morning to thank supporters, with successful representatives scheduled to establish their service centres by Monday.

The statement was issued by the PH Election Department and signed by Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, Datuk Seri Utama Aminuddin Harun, Sany Hamzan, Khalid Samad, and Faiz Fadzil.

SEREMBAN, Aug 1 — Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) will form the new Negeri Sembilan government after securing a two-thirds majority in today’s state election, based on unofficial results.

BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the unofficial results showed BN had won 18 seats while PN secured seven, giving the two coalitions a combined majority to form the state administration.

“We will have follow-up discussions between the two coalitions on the formation of the new state government based on the results announced,” he told a press conference at Wisma Umno Negeri Sembilan here today.

Ahmad Zahid said the new state government will be built on an understanding between BN and PN, while upholding the mandate given by the people.

He said the mandate came with a major responsibility to establish a stable and credible administration, while working to improve the well-being of the people and the state.

“We humbly accept this mandate with gratitude and a sense of responsibility. The people’s trust is not a reason for us to become complacent or arrogant.

“Our task begins tonight. Insya-Allah, every pledge we made in our manifesto will be fulfilled for the benefit of the people and the state as a whole,” he said.

Also present were BN deputy chairman Datuk Seri Mohamad Hassan, Wawasan president Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin, Kelantan Menteri Besar Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud, MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong and MIC deputy president Datuk Seri M. Saravanan.

When asked about the inevitable audience with the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Ahmad Zahid said it would be sought as soon as possible.

Thirty-six state legislative assembly seats were contested in the state polls, involving 103 candidates.

A total of 859,760 registered voters, including 7,391 postal voters, were eligible to vote today, with the voter turnout recorded by the Election Commission (EC) as of 4 pm today being 65.38 per cent or 562,133 voters.

In the 2023 state election, PH won 17 seats, followed by BN (14) and PN (five). — Bernama

DUNGUN, Aug 1 — A private university student was killed when the motorcycle he was riding skidded at Kilometre 354 of the East Coast Expressway 2 (LPT2), near here, today.

Dungun police chief Supt Nik Ab Halim Nik Mat said 22-year-old Muhammad Bakhtiar Mazlan, from Parit Raja, Batu Pahat, Johor, was confirmed dead at the scene due to severe head injuries.

He said police received a call from members of the public regarding the incident involving a Honda Vario motorcycle at about 3pm.

“Initial investigations found that the victim was on his way from Gong Badak, Kuala Nerus, towards Kuala Lumpur after attending the RXZ Members 8.0 Programme.

“On reaching the scene, the victim lost control of his machine, which then skidded to the left side of the road,” he said when contacted today.

Nik Ab Halim said the body was taken to the Dungun Hospital Forensic Unit, and that the case is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. — Bernama

KOTA BHARU, Aug 1 — An 80-year-old woman was killed while four others, including two drivers, were seriously injured in a two-car collision near Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Kedai Piah, Ketereh, here this afternoon.

Ketereh Fire and Rescue Station operations commander Mohd Nazri Taib said firefighters arrived at the scene four minutes after receiving an emergency call at 3.25pm.

“Upon arrival, we found a collision between a Perodua Myvi and a Proton Saga that claimed the life of an elderly woman at the scene.

“Four other victims aged between nine and 38, including both drivers, suffered serious injuries,” he said in a statement today.

Firefighters used hydraulic cutting equipment to free the trapped victims before handing them over to medical personnel for treatment.

“The deceased was handed over to the police, while clean-up work at the scene is still ongoing,” he said. — Bernama

JOHOR BAHRU, Aug 1 — The Economy Ministry is identifying a pilot project to address challenges arising from Malaysia’s ageing population, with plans to roll it out next year.

Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the ageing agenda had been designated as a key pillar under the 13th Malaysia Plan.

He said planning for the second rolling plan for next year’s development expenditure would be structured to cover all segments, including initiatives to address population ageing.

The move follows reports that 12 Malaysian states have reached ageing status, prompting the government to strengthen its long-term strategic planning.

“We at the Economy Ministry are identifying a pilot project specifically related to the ageing agenda, which we hope to introduce next year,” he told reporters after the Madani Kita programme at Pangsapuri Desa Dato’ Hajah Hasnah here today.

Akmal Nasrullah said the ministry had identified areas where population ageing was more pronounced than elsewhere.

He said the ministry was in the final stages of harmonising the national ageing agenda policy, which would include fiscal assessments and the development of the care economy.

“That is why we must address the challenges of an ageing population through a more holistic approach so that it does not become a burden,” he said, adding that efforts would involve government agencies, the private sector and the wider community.

Local media reported yesterday that 12 Malaysian states had attained ageing status after the proportion of residents aged 65 and above exceeded seven per cent of their populations.

According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), Perak continued to record the country’s highest proportion of older persons at 10.8 per cent, followed by Sarawak and Kedah at 9.7 per cent each, while Penang and Perlis both recorded 8.8 per cent.

DOSM also said the proportion of Malaysians aged 65 and above rose to 8.4 per cent this year from 8.0 per cent last year.

On the Madani Kita programme, Akmal Nasrullah said the event served as a platform for engagement between government agencies and local communities through various outreach activities.

He said the programme featured exhibitions, service booths and community initiatives covering road safety, welfare, youth development and other community-related activities.

Separately, he said the Economy Ministry was screening development expenditure proposals for the 2027 Budget, reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring all projects and reforms were carefully coordinated to ensure smooth implementation. — Bernama

GEORGE TOWN, Aug 1 — The Penang Port Commission (SPPP) reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the benefits of port development reach all segments of society, particularly those in need, in line with the Malaysia Madani aspirations.

Its chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin said SPPP’s role over the past 70 years had extended beyond advancing the port sector to supporting community well-being through various welfare initiatives.

“Today, under the spirit of Madani, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that the benefits of development reach all segments of society, especially those in need,” he said at a tea reception held in conjunction with SPPP’s 70th anniversary celebration and the launch of the Penang Port 2026 National Month Celebration here today.

The event was attended by Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib and his wife, Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah.

He said the event also provided an opportunity to extend support to orphans and those in need through contributions by SPPP.

“Their presence reminds us that development and prosperity must be shared. I urge everyone to continue supporting such initiatives through contributions, volunteer services and community programmes organised by SPPP with strategic partners,” he said.

Earlier, Yeoh presented the Jalur Gemilang to representatives of 10 port industry companies to mark the National Month celebration.

A total of 185 recipients comprising orphans, persons with disabilities (PwD) and single mothers from welfare homes across the state received contributions presented by the Penang governor and his wife. — Bernama

KUALA TERENGGANU, Aug 1 — Police have arrested three men to assist in investigations into the open sale of ketum water at the Paka Rest and Service (R&R) area yesterday.

Terengganu police chief Datuk Mohd Khairi Khairuddin said the suspects, aged between 16 and 32, were arrested during an inspection at the Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium (SSMZA) slip road area near Gong Badak in Kuala Nerus at 7.44pm.

He said that an inspection of the Toyota Hiace vehicle, which the suspects were travelling in, led to the discovery of two bottles containing a liquid believed to be boiled ketum leaves, with an estimated total volume of 600 millilitres (ml).

“All three suspects are not from Terengganu and are believed to have come here in conjunction with the RXZ Members 8.0 programme at the Gong Badak Motor Circuit.

“Initial investigations found the ketum water is believed to have been brought into Terengganu for their use throughout their stay here. All three have been remanded to assist in investigations under Section 30 (3) of the Poisons Act 1952,” he said in a statement today, adding that two of them tested positive for methamphetamine.

He said that following the arrest, the Terengganu Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (NCID) inspected seven houses and a resort that had been identified as being connected to the case.

However, he said the inspections found no illegal goods or substances at the premises. — Bernama

SEREMBAN, Aug 1 — Amid the excitement of her wedding day, a bride made an unforgettable stop at a polling station, arriving in a striking red traditional bridal outfit to cast her ballot in the Negeri Sembilan state election.

Marketing officer Noor Farzana Masnoor, 26, was accompanied by her husband, Luqman Adam Sudirman, 27, as she voted at the Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Tamil (SJKT) Ladang Kubang polling centre in Labu for the Labu constituency.

“As a young ‘Gen Z’ couple, we believe our responsibility as Malaysians is just as important, because voting does not come around often. It is a trust placed upon us to choose representatives who will genuinely serve the people.

“We hope our story is remembered not just as a wedding day, but as a reminder that young people value both their rights and responsibilities as citizens,” she told Bernama.

Noor Farzana said casting her ballot in her wedding attire made the occasion even more memorable and was something she and her husband would cherish for years to come.

For the latest updates on the state election, visit https://prn.bernama.com/n9. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 1 — Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid has thanked voters and supporters for giving his coalition and Perikatan Nasional the mandate to form the next Negeri Sembilan state government.

Ahmad Zahid also says the two coalitions will now turn their attention to the impending Melaka state election.

“We will have follow-up discussions between the two coalitions on the formation of the new state government based on the results announced,” he said during a press conference at Wisma Umno Negeri Sembilan tonight.

Umno secretary-general Datuk Seri Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki is claiming victory for the Barisan Nasional-Perikatan Nasional pact in the Negeri Sembilan, saying the two have unofficially secured 25 seats from the 36 being contested in today’s state election.

The two coalitions are opponents at the federal level but teamed up in last month’s Johor state election and again for today’s poll.

Asyraf said the two will jointly form the next state government.

DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke has lost his Chennah seat while caretaker mentri besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun has failed in his bid to capture Linggi, according to the unofficial vote count.

The results are a massive blow to Pakatan Harapan.

Loke was defeated by MCA’s Siow Kong Choon by a margin of 491 votes. Aminuddin’s margin of defeat was an unequivocal 1,668 ballots. 

People gather at the Pakatan Harapan Information Centre while awaiting the results of the 16th Negeri Sembilan State Election in Seremban on August 1, 2026. — Bernama pic

Barisan Nasional has won Repah, Pilah, Chembong, Palong, Johol, Gemencheh, Seri Menanti, Palong, Juasseh, Pertang, Senaling, and Sungai Lui, according to the unofficial vote count.

Pakatan Harapan has taken Mambau and Lobak.

Barisan Nasional is ahead in 14 seats, based on early counting, while the allied Perikatan Nasional is also ahead in two seats. The two are in an informal pact dubbed Perikatan-Barisan Nasional (PBN) for the state poll.

Pakatan Harapan is ahead of rivals in eight seats.

Early counting has Barisan Nasional leading in 10 seats while Pakatan Harapan has the advantage in five.

Barisan Nasional has taken early leads in Repah, Seremban Jaya, and Rahang. Pakatan Harapan is in front in Bahau, Bukit Kepayang, and Mambau.

A combination photo shows voters in the 16th Negeri Sembilan State Election at Sekolah Kebangsaan Kampung Putra in Jelebu on August 1, 2026. — Bernama pic

The polls have officially closed across Negeri Sembilan. After two weeks of intense campaigning, voters have cast their ballots for all 36 state seats, leaving the state on a knife-edge as the race to form the next government begins.

From the high-profile battle in Linggi to the traditional strongholds of Umno, the focus now shifts from the polling booths to the counting centres.

This election marks a volatile departure from the 2023 landscape. The unity government banner that saw Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Barisan Nasional (BN) sweep 31 seats three years ago has vanished, replaced by a fragmented and fierce contest. With BN and PH now facing off as opponents, and Bersatu striking out on its own, a record 103 candidates have vied for power in a series of chaotic multi-cornered fights.

Beyond the state, the results will serve as a critical litmus test for the national political climate. Following the Johor election last month, all eyes are on Negeri Sembilan for signs of shifting voter sentiment and the viability of new electoral pacts.

As the first results trickle in, the state’s unique political identity and its bread-and-butter grievances will determine whether traditional loyalties hold or if a new order is emerging ahead of the next general election.

SEREMBAN, Aug 1 — Postal vote counting for the 16th Negeri Sembilan state election began at 5pm today.

The process is being conducted by Election Commission (EC) officials at eight official vote tallying centres across the state, in the presence of candidates’ representatives from all contesting parties and independent candidates.

Approximately 12,000 postal ballots are being counted.

On 20 July, EC secretary Datuk Khairul Shahril Idrus said a total of 13,263 postal ballots had been issued to eligible voters for the state election.

Of the total, 12,669 were issued under Category 1A to election workers, EC members and officers, police personnel, members of the armed forces, and media personnel.

A further 343 postal ballots were issued under Category 1B to Malaysian citizens residing overseas, while 251 were issued under Category 1C to officers from 11 agencies in the security and health sectors.

For the latest updates on the state polls, visit https://prn.bernama.com/n9. — Bernama