PUTRAJAYA, June 6 — All government training and research institutions will be required to provide training programmes in emerging fields for selected Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students beginning July, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said he has instructed Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar to coordinate the initiative to further enhance the skills of TVET students nationwide.

He said at least 50 to 100 TVET students at each selected institution will be given early training opportunities in emerging and high-technology fields such as artificial intelligence (AI) and cryptocurrency.

“They will be selected to master truly new fields, namely AI, crypto and energy transition,” he said when officiating at the National TVET Day 2026 celebration here today.

Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, ministers and Shamsul Azri.

MORE TO COME

PUTRAJAYA, June 6 — The government has approved up to RM50 million from the High Impact Programme Fund under the Skills Development Fund Corporation (PTPK) to strengthen the implementation of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) 2.0, Astro Awani reported.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the allocation will be used to expand training programmes, industry exposure and improve skills development quality to ensure the country’s workforce meets current and future market demands.

He said the move reflects the government’s continued push to align TVET development with industry needs through closer collaboration between stakeholders.

“I reiterate that the government allows up to RM50 million from the PTPK High Impact Programme Fund to be used for TVET 2.0.

“However, the condition is that employers and industry players must cooperate with the government, particularly through the National TVET Council, so that there is better coordination in making this agenda a success,” he was quoted as saying. 

Anwar was speaking at the launch of the TVET 2.0 celebration at Dataran Putrajaya today. 

Also present was Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is the chairman of the National TVET Council committee.

The Prime Minister said close cooperation between the government and industry is crucial to ensure training programmes offered are aligned with sector needs, while also providing trainees with greater exposure opportunities.

Held under the theme “TVET Pilihan Utama Kerjaya”, the three-day event running until Sunday from 9am to 10pm brings together more than 107 agencies, institutions and industry players from nine key sectors.

MORE TO COME

TUMPAT, June 6 — Six individuals have been arrested following the discovery of an illegal petrol storage facility allegedly used to stockpile fuel for smuggling into Thailand in an operation that has been going on for about two years. 

According to a  Sinar Harian report  carried out on Thursday under Op Taring Wawasan by the General Operations Force (PGA) Battalion 8 in Pengkalan Chepa together with personnel from the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) Kota Bharu, also led to the seizure of petrol, cash and four vehicles worth RM104,748.60.

Brigade Southeast PGA commander Senior Assistant Commissioner Ahmad Radzi Hussain said the operation was launched following intelligence on suspected fuel smuggling activities at a premises in Tualang, Pengkalan Kubor.

He said surveillance conducted for about 30 minutes showed several four-wheel-drive vehicles, believed to be Mitsubishi Pajero units, entering the premises in a suspicious manner before enforcement teams moved in.

“During the raid, officers found three men siphoning petrol from vehicle tanks into plastic containers, while a woman and two other men were inside and around the storage premises,” he was quoted as saying. 

He added that checks at the site uncovered 255 litres of petrol, three rubber hoses, an air pump, RM3,650 in cash and four vehicles believed to have been used in the activity.

Preliminary investigations found that four of the suspects, aged between 25 and 40, were responsible for purchasing petrol from stations around Tumpat before selling it to a local man aged 53, who is believed to be the main buyer operating the storage site.

The syndicate is believed to have been active for about two years, with the premises rented at RM400 per month.

Ahmad Radzi reportedly said that the group bought petrol at RM4.20 per litre before reselling it across the border to Thailand, with the operation capable of handling up to 60 barrels of petrol a day.

He said another suspect, aged 51, is believed to have been working at the premises and was paid RM50 per day.

The case is being investigated under Section 21 of the Control of Supplies Act 1961, and all suspects and seized items have been handed over to the KPDN Kota Bharu for further action.

He added that PGA will continue intelligence and enforcement operations along border areas to curb the smuggling of subsidised goods that affect the national economy.

KUALA LUMPUR, June 6 — The supply of essential goods in Malaysia remains stable despite ongoing uncertainties in global supply chains, says Mydin Mohamed Holdings Bhd (Mydin) managing director Datuk Dr Ameer Ali Mydin.

He said careful planning by the retail sector and the smooth operation of the domestic agricultural industry have strengthened confidence that food supplies for the local market remain secure.

Ameer Ali said uninterrupted planting and harvesting activities, supported by sufficient agricultural inputs such as fertilisers, have helped maintain market stability, with no signs of shortages in the near future.

“At the moment, there are no indications of that. Planting and harvesting activities are proceeding as usual, while fertiliser supplies remain sufficient.

“We have also heard Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu say that urea fertiliser supplies are adequate for the current planting season,” he said when appearing as a guest on Bernama TV’s Ruang Bicara programme titled ‘Strengthening the Retail Industry, Driving the National Economy’, here last night.

On imported goods, Ameer Ali said local retailers have adopted forward-buying strategies to ensure a consistent and adequate supply of essential imported products.

He also urged consumers not to resort to panic buying, noting that supply stability extends beyond food items to include products such as textiles and clothing.

“I can say that supplies remain stable and adequate. There is no need to worry excessively, but at the same time, people should avoid waste and unnecessary panic,” he said.

Meanwhile, Ameer Ali welcomed the sizeable allocation for the Rahmah Cash Aid (STR) and Rahmah Basic Aid (SARA) programmes under Budget 2026, describing the initiative as having a multiplier effect on the domestic economy.

“Traders are also grateful because consumers’ spending power is currently rather weak. When assistance such as this is provided, shops become busier and it creates a significant positive impact on the economy, especially for small businesses,” he said.

In a separate development, Mydin is adapting to changing consumer lifestyles by opening more than 20 new outlets this year under a smaller community-store concept, offering a complete range of essential goods. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, June 6 — FamilyMart Malaysia has apologised over an incident involving a delivery rider who was allegedly splashed with hot soup in a viral video, saying it has already attended to the rider’s wellbeing.

In a statement yesterday, the convenience store chain said it regretted the incident and the delay in providing an update on the matter. 

FamilyMart Malaysia said the company has taken steps to ensure the delivery rider’s welfare is being addressed, while also cooperating fully with the authorities in their ongoing investigation.

The company added that it is conducting its own internal probe into the incident.

“FamilyMart Malaysia reiterates that we do not tolerate any rude, unsafe or disrespectful behaviour towards anyone, including customers, staff, delivery personnel and business partners at our stores,” it said.

“We will not compromise in taking the necessary action, and we remain committed to ensuring that our stores are safe and respectful spaces for everyone.”

The company also said employees have been reminded of proper customer service training.

“Thank you for your patience, care and support,” it added.

The incident surfaced after a 23-second video began circulating online on May 28 showing a heated exchange between a delivery rider and a FamilyMart employee.

In a post on X, a social media user claiming to be the rider alleged that he had approached the employee to ask about his order before the worker responded rudely and threw soup at him during the confrontation.

It remains unclear what triggered the dispute.

DUNGUN, June 6 — A woman lost her left leg after the car she was travelling in was involved in an accident at Kilometre 341.5 of the East Coast Expressway 2 (LPT2), near the Paka Rest and Service (R&R) area near here, yesterday. 

Operations Commander senior fire officer II Nor Hazamullah Abdullah said the 57-year-old woman suffered the injury when the Proton X70 sports utility vehicle (SUV) she was travelling in skidded off the road at the scene.

He added that they received an emergency call regarding the accident at 5.41 pm and dispatched seven firefighters and a fire engine to the scene.

“The victim, whose left leg was severed below the knee, was successfully extricated by firefighters. The severed limb was also found in the vehicle and handed over to the medical officer at the scene,” he said when contacted.

He said there were five people — a man and four women — in the vehicle when the accident occurred, adding that they were on their way from Kuala Terengganu to Kuantan, Pahang, at that time.

“The woman, whose leg was severed, and the other four, who were also injured, were taken to Dungun Hospital,” he added. — Bernama

IPOH, June 6 — Police are tracking down a motorcyclist believed to have smashed a car windscreen with a helmet in an incident along Jalan Raja Ashman Shah here early yesterday morning.

Ipoh district police chief ACP Muhammad Najib Hamzah said police received a report from the victim, a local man, regarding the incident, which occurred at about 1.26 am.

“Initial investigations found that the incident occurred after the victim honked at a motorcyclist who was riding erratically and nearly got in his way.

“As a result of the incident, the victim suffered losses estimated at RM1,500,” he said in a statement last night, adding that an investigation paper had been opened under Section 427 of the Penal Code for committing mischief.

Muhammad Najib said police were actively identifying the suspect, believed to be in his 30s and riding a blue Honda Dash motorcycle.

He added that dashcam footage obtained from the incident is being analysed to assist in the investigation.

Earlier, a video of the incident went viral on social media via Threads and Facebook, showing a motorcyclist smashing a car windscreen. — Bernama

PORT DICKSON, June 6 — A four-year-old boy died after drowning in a swimming pool at a resort along Jalan Pantai, Batu 4, here yesterday.

Port Dickson deputy police chief DSP Mohd Ruslan Mat Kib said police received a report from Port Dickson Hospital at 7.26 pm regarding the incident.

He said the incident occurred at about 5.30 pm when the victim and his three siblings were swimming in the pool under the supervision of their mother.

“The family had travelled from Johor and was staying at a privately owned apartment within the resort. The victim was spotted by his elder brother after falling into the pool and was rescued by members of the public before being taken to hospital by his mother,” he said in a statement today.

Mohd Ruslan said the boy was pronounced dead at 10.31 pm and a post-mortem confirmed drowning as the cause of death.

He said the case is being investigated under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001. — Bernama

MELAKA, June 6 — The government has assured that no healthcare facilities in the country, including Segamat Hospital in Johor, will be shut down, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad said.

He said the situation at Segamat Hospital stemmed from service pressures and did not involve any suspension of services, adding that the Health Ministry had activated a cluster crisis management mechanism to ensure patient care remains uninterrupted.

“If such situations arise due to a high number of patients, inpatients will continue to receive treatment, while outpatients will be referred to the nearest healthcare facilities for care.

“There is no closure of services and this is important because patient care cannot be compromised. The hospital remains operational, including its obstetrics and gynaecology services,” he told reporters after officiating the closing ceremony of the Health Ministry’s 2026 Malaysian Nutrition Month celebration at a shopping mall here yesterday. 

Also present were Health Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad and Melaka Health Department director Dr Husnina Ibrahim.

Yesterday, Johor Health director Dr Mohtar Pungut@Ahmad dismissed claims circulating on social media that Segamat Hospital would cease operations on July 1, saying the hospital continues to operate as usual.

Meanwhile, commenting on the rise in malaria cases involving foreign nationals in Terengganu, Dzulkefly said the ministry has implemented several multi-agency measures to curb infections.

These include an early warning mechanism to identify the arrival of migrant groups from malaria-endemic areas, targeted malaria screening among foreign nationals, and enhanced treatment and case management efforts.

The Terengganu Health Department yesterday issued a high-alert warning following an increase in malaria cases among Rohingya individuals in the state. — Bernama

ALOR GAJAH, June 6 — Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh has hinted that the state election will be held after the Johor and Negeri Sembilan polls are concluded.

He said the situation in Johor and Negeri Sembilan is different from that in Melaka, which does not require the State Legislative Assembly to be dissolved in the near future.

The current term of the Melaka State Legislative Assembly ends on Dec 30.

“We (Barisan Nasional) will continue to administer government affairs and look after the people’s welfare until a date to be officially announced.

“We are not following either Johor or Negeri Sembilan and we will deploy (party) machinery to assist in the elections in both states,” he said when met by reporters at an event marking his return from performing the haj pilgrimage at his residence in Kampung Pulau here last night. 

Ab Rauf further said he would examine the results of the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections before deciding on a suitable date to dissolve the state assembly.

He stressed that he was not under any pressure to dissolve the Melaka State Legislative Assembly, as had happened in Johor and Negeri Sembilan.

However, Ab Rauf did not rule out any possibility on the future of the Melaka State Legislative Assembly, describing politics as an “art with 1,001 possibilities”.

The Melaka state election in 2021 saw Barisan Nasional (BN) form the state government after winning 21 seats, while Pakatan Harapan (PH) secured five seats and Perikatan Nasional (PN) two seats.

The Negeri Sembilan and Johor State Legislative Assemblies were dissolved today and on June 1, respectively. — Bernama

PUTRAJAYA, June 6 —  The Attorney-General (AG) is seeking leave to appeal against the decision of the Court of Appeal that had allowed the Malaysian Bar to challenge the prosecution’s decision to halt all further proceedings against Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi in the Yayasan Akalbudi corruption case.

In the notice of motion filed yesterday, the AG Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar had posed two questions of law.

The first question is whether the AG’s decisions not to institute a prosecution and to discontinue a prosecution under Article 145(3) of the Federal Constitution are amenable to judicial review.

If answered in the affirmative, what would be the leave threshold or test applicable to commence judicial review proceedings against those decisions.

The second question is whether the two-stage test laid down by the Federal Court in Sundra Rajoo Nadarajah v Menteri Luar Negeri, Malaysia & Ors [2021] is properly characterised as a ratio decidendi (binding legal principle).

Mohd Dusuki has also applied for all proceedings in the High Court to be stayed pending the outcome of the leave application.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also the second proposed respondent in the judicial review proceedings, filed a separate application for leave to appeal on May 25. He raised five questions of law in support of his leave application to appeal pursuant to Section 96 of the Courts of Judicature Act 1964.

On May 7, this year, the Court of Appeal allowed the Malaysian Bar’s application to challenge the AG’s decision on Sept 4, 2023, to halt proceedings against Zahid, ruling that the application was not frivolous and raised arguable points of law that warranted a full hearing.

The court granted leave for the Bar to commence judicial review against the Attorney-General’s impugned decision, thereby setting aside the Kuala Lumpur High Court’s decision dated June 27, 2024.

The Kuala Lumpur High Court had dismissed the Malaysian Bar’s application for leave to initiate judicial review proceedings, ruling that the application failed to meet the requisite threshold for judicial review.

The Bar is also seeking a declaration from the court that the decision made by then-High Court Judge Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah (now a Federal Court judge) to grant Ahmad Zahid a discharge not amounting to an acquittal (DNAA) on 47 criminal breach of trust, corruption and money laundering charges related to the Yayasan Akalbudi funds is null and void.

The High Court arrived at its decision to grant the DNAA after the prosecution informed that the Attorney-General’s Chambers intended to halt proceedings against Zahid in order to scrutinise new evidence. — Bernama

PUTRAJAYA, June 6 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will officiate the National Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Day 2026 celebration at Dataran Putrajaya today, underscoring the government’s continued commitment to developing a highly skilled workforce.

Anwar is scheduled to deliver an address at 10 am and officially launch the three-day event, which began yesterday under the theme TVET Pilihan Utama Kerjaya (TVET, The Preferred Career Path).

The celebration is expected to attract 500,000 visitors and will highlight TVET’s role in developing a highly skilled workforce and strengthening the nation’s economic competitiveness.

More than 107 agencies, institutions and industry players from nine key sectors will participate in the event, including aerospace, electronics and digital technology, agriculture, transportation and automotive, advanced manufacturing, services, rail, maritime and energy.

Running daily from 9 am to 10 pm, the celebration features six main hubs focusing on institutional and industry engagement, TVET seminars, career opportunities, entrepreneurship, skills challenges and educational entertainment.

National TVET Day is observed annually on June 2 to recognise the role of technical and vocational education and training in supporting the country’s human capital development.

Under the Malaysia MADANI framework, the government has continued to strengthen TVET through programmes aligned with technological advancements and evolving industry needs.

SEREMBAN, June 6 — Dewan Keadilan dan Undang (DKU) secretary Raja Norazli Raja Nordin plans to initiate contempt of court proceedings against six individuals, including three Undangs, for allegedly defying a High Court order linked to an ongoing dispute involving the royal institution, The Star reported.

Raja Norazli said the move followed reports that some of the plaintiffs had proceeded with actions related to the proclamation of a Yang di-Pertuan Besar despite an ad interim injunction granted by the High Court yesterday. 

According to The Star, Raja Norazli said the court order restrained the plaintiffs from convening or holding any DKU meeting, including a Special Sitting scheduled for yesterday. 

“After the ad interim injunction was granted, I have, through media reports, discovered that the plaintiffs, especially plaintiff two, were somehow involved in the so-called proclamation of a Yang di-Pertuan Besar,” he said in a statement.

He said the reported events took place after the High Court had issued the injunctions and warned that any such actions, if proven, could amount to a breach of the court order.

“My lawyers have written to their lawyers wherein I have reserved my right to initiate proceedings against the plaintiffs to preserve the integrity of this honourable court’s order,” he was quoted as saying. 

Earlier yesterday, the English daily reported that High Court judge Roz Mawar Rozain granted ad interim injunctions following an application by Raja Norazli and the DKU, who are named as the first and second defendants respectively.

The injunctions prohibit the six plaintiffs from convening or holding any DKU meeting, whether personally or through agents, nominees or appointees, acording to the report. 

The plaintiffs are also restrained from suspending, removing or interfering with Raja Norazli’s duties as DKU secretary pending further court proceedings.

They are additionally barred from creating or empowering any committee, person or body to assume the powers and functions of the DKU secretary, as well as from making or implementing decisions concerning the administration, governance and affairs of the DKU.

The order further prevents the plaintiffs from taking any steps that would alter or interfere with the status quo of the DKU as it stood immediately before May 21.

The injunctions will remain in force pending the court’s determination of jurisdictional and justiciability issues, and until further orders are made.

The six plaintiffs are Datuk Mubarak Dohak, Undang of Jelebu Datuk Maarof Mat Rashad, Undang of Johol Datuk Muhammed Abdullah, Undang of Rembau Datuk Abdul Rahim Yasin, Tunku Besar of Tampin Tunku Syed Razman Tunku Syed Idrus Al-Qadri, and Shahbandar of Sungei Ujong Datuk Seri Badarudin Abdul Khalid.

KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 — No Malaysians were affected after a Lufthansa Boeing 787-9 aircraft suffered a nose landing gear failure while preparing for departure at Frankfurt Airport on June 4, the Embassy of Malaysia in Germany confirmed.

In a statement posted on Facebook, the embassy said that, according to information provided by the relevant German authorities and Lufthansa, the aircraft experienced a nose landing gear failure while parked at a gate in preparation for its scheduled departure to Los Angeles.

“The incident occurred prior to passenger boarding.

“At the time of the incident, only Lufthansa crew members and ground personnel were on board the aircraft,” the statement read.

Several airline staff members were injured and are receiving medical treatment, it added. The embassy conveyed its sincere hope for their swift and full recovery.

German Press Agency (dpa) reported that several employees were injured when a Lufthansa aircraft collapsed while parked at the gate at Frankfurt Airport, for reasons yet unknown. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 — An investigating officer told the Sessions Court today that he was unaware that former Consortium Zenith Construction Sdn Bhd (CZCSB) director Datuk Zarul Ahmad Mohd Zulkifli had links to another construction company that participated in the open tender for the Penang undersea tunnel and three main roads project.

Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Headquarters Investigation Division Senior Superintendent Zulhilmi Ramli said that besides Consortium Zenith Beijing Urban Construction Group (CZBUCG), VST Cemerlang Sdn Bhd had also submitted a bid for the mega project through the open tender process.

However, he said he was unsure whether Zarul Ahmad had planted VST Cemerlang as a bidder, and only knew that the businessman had links with CZBUCG.

The 38th prosecution witness said this during cross-examination by defence counsel Haijan Omar in the corruption trial of former Penang chief minister Lim Guan Eng involving the RM6.3 billion undersea tunnel and main roads project.

When asked by the lawyer whether his investigation showed that Zarul Ahmad had secretly placed VST Cemerlang in the bidding process, Zulhilmi replied that he was not sure.

Further questioned on whether he knew if Zarul Ahmad had any influence or interest in VST Cemerlang that enabled the company to participate in the tender, Zulhilmi answered: “I do not know.”

Haijan then suggested that the witness had never investigated the matter and was unaware of the reasons, basis and interests behind VST Cemerlang’s participation in the tender.

However, Zulhilmi disagreed and said his investigation was conducted based on the complaint lodged.

When the lawyer suggested that the matter had been overlooked during the investigation, Zulhilmi again maintained that he disagreed.

Earlier, in his witness statement, Zulhilmi said CZBUCG was the best company among the five bidders evaluated for the project.

According to him, CZBUCG scored 93 per cent compared with the nearest bidder, VST Cemerlang, which scored 77 per cent, resulting in CZBUCG being awarded the tender for the project.

Lim, 65, is charged with using his position as Penang chief minister to obtain gratification of RM3.3 million for himself by helping a company owned by Zarul Ahmad secure the RM6,341,383,702 Penang roads and undersea tunnel project at the Penang Chief Minister’s Office between January 2011 and August 2017.

For the second charge, the Bagan MP is accused of soliciting a bribe amounting to 10 per cent of the profits to be earned by Zarul Ahmad as an inducement for helping the businessman’s company secure the same project. The offence was allegedly committed near The Gardens Hotel, Lingkaran Syed Putra, Mid Valley City, here, between 12.30am and 2am in March 2011.

He also faces two charges of causing two plots of Penang government land worth RM208.8 million to be disposed of to a developer company linked to the undersea tunnel project. The offences were allegedly committed at the Penang State Land and Mines Office, Komtar, on Feb 17, 2015, and March 22, 2017.

The trial before Judge Azura Alwi continues on July 23. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 — Malaysians will be able to watch the Fifa World Cup 2026 through the government’s MyGOV Malaysia app.

The Digital Ministry announced today that users registered with MyDigital ID will be able to access RTM’s ‘live’ World Cup broadcasts through the app’s streaming feature, which carries content from TV1, TV2 and Okey TV.

The move means football fans will be able to follow matches from the Fifa World Cup 2026 directly through the government app, which was launched last year to consolidate services from multiple agencies.

Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said the platform was part of the government’s broader effort to improve access to digital government services.

“The MyGOV Malaysia app reflects the Madani Government’s continued efforts to improve how Malaysians access digital services. As usage continues to grow, the platform is being progressively enhanced to support scalability, performance, and user experience improvements,” he said in a statement.

According to the ministry, the app currently offers 51 services from 19 government agencies, including checks on travel restrictions, searches for unclaimed money and access to the PriceCatcher price comparison tool.

The platform has attracted more than 2.2 million users since its launch in 2025.

The Fifa World Cup 2026 will be held from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The Communications Ministry previously announced that RTM and Unifi TV would serve as Malaysia’s official broadcasters for the tournament.

PUTRAJAYA, June 5 — The government is targeting at least 650,000 students to enrol in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes at 1,395 TVET institutions nationwide by December 31 this year.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the target follows a significant rise in student participation in TVET, which is increasingly becoming a preferred education and career pathway among parents and students.

“Last year, about 587,000 students enrolled in TVET institutions, compared with around 121,000 when the TVET Council was first established.

“This shows growing recognition among parents and students about TVET, and the fivefold increase in enrolment is a very positive achievement,” he told reporters after visiting the exhibition site for the 2026 National TVET Day celebrations at Dataran Putrajaya today.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also chairman of the National TVET Council Committee, said the event is being held from today until June 7 to showcase high-quality TVET to students at institutions nationwide as well as prospective applicants.

He said the approach is important to meet labour market demand, particularly in developing skilled local workers to meet industry needs.

“We must meet labour market demand in the TVET sector, particularly in producing skilled workers for industries that need Malaysian talent, and this will in turn help raise the starting salaries of TVET graduates,” he said.

Ahmad Zahid said the government is also aiming for TVET to become a first-choice pathway for students, even as academic routes through public and private higher education institutions continue to be strengthened, stressing that the current focus is to meet the actual needs of the labour market nationwide.

National TVET Day 2026, themed “TVET Pilihan Utama Kerjaya” (TVET as the Preferred Career Choice), is expected to draw 500,000 visitors, featuring a range of programmes that give visitors the chance to explore six main hubs: TVET and industry engagement, seminars, a career carnival, entrepreneurship, TVET challenges, and educational entertainment.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to officiate at the highlight of the event tomorrow, underscoring the government’s continued commitment to developing a highly skilled workforce. — Bernama

PUTRAJAYA, June 5 — Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today dismissed suggestions of reviving Muafakat Nasional (MN) 2.0, saying there have been no discussions on the matter between Umno and PAS.

“There have been no discussions on that,” he told reporters after visiting the exhibition site for National Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Day 2026 at Dataran Putrajaya here today.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also deputy prime minister, said Umno and Barisan Nasional’s (BN) priority remains ensuring political stability through the unity government formed with Pakatan Harapan (PH) and parties from Sabah and Sarawak.

“The most important thing is to ensure that the current government remains intact until the end of the 15th Parliament’s term,” he said.

Yesterday, PAS Youth proposed that Umno revive political cooperation through Muafakat Nasional ahead of the upcoming Johor state election.

On a separate matter, Ahmad Zahid said a political meeting involving Umno and PAS leaders held last night did not involve the presidents of either party and was focused on political collaboration and national issues.

He said politics is dynamic and BN remains open to political discussions and deliberations on national matters in the interest of preserving the country’s stability. — Bernama

KUANTAN, June 5 — The Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah today officiated the opening of the Mahkota Gymnasium at the Indera Mahkota Fire and Rescue Station, a reflection of His Royal Highness’ concern for the fitness and well-being of rescue personnel.

The Pahang Ruler arrived at about 3pm and was welcomed by Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department director-general Nor Hisham Mohammad, Pahang Fire and Rescue Department director Datuk Mohd Razam Taja Rahim and Universal Fitness & Leisure Sdn Bhd (UFL) managing director Datuk Radha Krishnan.

The Sultan later received a briefing from Mohd Razam on the development and operation of the gymnasium, which is equipped with exercise equipment donated by His Royal Highness.

Speaking to reporters, Al-Sultan Abdullah said the donation of the fitness equipment was intended to provide firefighters, as part of the nation's front-line workforce, with more comprehensive training facilities and to ensure they remain in peak physical condition while carrying out their duties.

“This facility enables them to train more thoroughly and intensively so that they remain fit and ready to fulfil their responsibilities in assisting those in need of help,” the Sultan said.

Al-Sultan Abdullah also expressed appreciation for the vital role played by firefighters in assisting the public, particularly during emergencies and various incidents.

“The fire and rescue force is undoubtedly a very important front-line service for the state of Pahang. Whenever the people face problems, they are among the agencies that arrive at the scene and provide assistance, whether involving fires, accidents, or even animal disturbances such as snakes.

“My hope is to see members of the security and emergency services remain healthy and physically fit,” His Royal Highness added.

At the same time, the Sultan of Pahang encouraged the public to continue practicing a healthy lifestyle by actively participating in sports and recreational activities to maintain good fitness and health.

During the event, Al-Sultan Abdullah also toured the gymnasium facilities and interacted with the firefighters, affectionately referred to as the brigade’s “muscle men” (abang sado).

The Mahkota Gymnasium, which operates daily from 9am to 10pm, is equipped with 15 pieces of fitness equipment, including treadmills, spinning bikes, leg press machines, a Smith machine, battle ropes, and dumbbells. — Bernama

PUTRAJAYA, June 5 — Barisan Nasional (BN) is ready for the Negeri Sembilan state election and remains open to continuing its cooperation with Pakatan Harapan (PH) to retain the unity government in the state, its chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said today.

However, Ahmad Zahid said it was still too early to hold formal discussions on any electoral cooperation between the two coalitions.

“We are prepared for the Negeri Sembilan state election and, of course, remain very open to continuing the unity government in the state,” he told reporters after visiting the exhibition site for National Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Day 2026 at Dataran Putrajaya here today.

The deputy prime minister’s remarks came a day after Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun announced the dissolution of the 36-seat State Legislative Assembly to pave the way for the 16th state election.

In the 2023 state election, PH and BN formed the Negeri Sembilan government after securing a combined 31 of the 36 seats contested.

PH won 17 seats, followed by BN with 14, while Perikatan Nasional (PN) secured five seats.

Negeri Sembilan became the second state to dissolve its legislative assembly for a fresh election after Johor, which dissolved its State Legislative Assembly on Monday. — Bernama

GEORGE TOWN, June 5 — The Penang State Health Department (JKNPP) has issued 597 notices for smoking within the George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site here, through 114 enforcement operations since 2022.

State Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen said the world heritage site was gazetted as a smoke-free zone since 2015 and is now subjected to the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852).

“Throughout last year, 106 notices were issued. However, that number has increased this year, with 127 notices issued so far, surpassing the previous year’s total.

“In view of this, we will continue to step up monitoring and enforcement to ensure compliance with the stipulated regulations,” he told reporters after launching the Penang Smoke-Free (PENBAR) promotional materials at the George Town World Heritage Site here today.

Gooi said the increase in notices shows some individuals still fail to comply with the ban despite ongoing educational and advocacy efforts.

He said under Act 852, individuals found smoking in smoke-free zones can face a compound fine of RM250 for each offence.

“We understand that alongside continuous public education, enforcement action must be taken to ensure compliance within the George Town World Heritage Site,” he said.

He added that the state government and JKNPP are intensifying public awareness by installing more promotional materials and warning boards.

Gooi said besides the George Town Heritage Site, several other locations in Penang have also been gazetted as smoke-free zones under Act 852, namely the Jalan Utama Municipal Park, Jalan Air Terjun Botanical Gardens, Air Itam Dam, and Teluk Bahang Dam on the island.

On the mainland, the ban covers the Mengkuang Dam in Berapit and the Ampang Jajar Town Park.

Earlier, Gooi and 70 personnel from the JKNPP Enforcement Division distributed campaign leaflets at premises and fitted banners and special sunshades on trishaws to boost tourist awareness of the smoking ban within the heritage zone. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 — A special meeting to discuss matters related to the 16th Johor state election will be held on June 12, according to the Election Commission (EC).

EC secretary Datuk Khairul Shahril Idrus said the commission had received notification from Johor State Assembly Speaker Datuk Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi regarding the dissolution of the Johor State Legislative Assembly on June 2, as provided under Clause 23(2), Part Two of the Johor Constitution 1895.

“Under Clause 23(4), Part Two of the Johor Constitution 1895, a state election must be held within 60 days from the date of the dissolution of the State Assembly.

“The special meeting, to be chaired by EC chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun, will discuss key dates for the 16th Johor state election, including the issuance of the election writ, nomination day, polling day, the electoral roll to be used, and other preparations for the conduct of the election,” he said in a statement today.

He added that a press conference would be held immediately after the special meeting.

The Johor State Legislative Assembly was dissolved on Monday after receiving the consent of Johor Regent Tunku Mahkota Ismail.

In a separate statement, Khairul Shahril said applications for domestic and overseas postal voting for the 16th Johor state election have opened online today via the MySPR portal at https://myspr.spr.gov.my

The facility is available to all postal voting categories: Category 1A (police officers, military personnel, election workers, EC members and officers, and media personnel), Category 1B (Malaysian citizens residing overseas), and Category 1C (agencies and organisations).

“All postal vote applications must be submitted online. Eligible voters who wish to vote by post must register for, or already have, a MySPR account before applying,” he said.

He added that the closing date for postal vote applications for all categories would be announced later.

For enquiries or further information, the public may contact the EC at 03-8892 7080 or email upup@spr.gov.my — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 — Four police corporals pleaded not guilty in the Magistrate’s Court here today to a charge of extorting RM10,000 from a salesman three years ago.

Mohd Al Hafis Sairudin, 43, Mohd Azmi Mohd Ghozali, 40, Muhamad Azlan Zakaria, 39, and Muhammad Hanif Abdul Talib, 30, were jointly charged with extorting Danny Goh Ngee Guan, 35, by allegedly causing him to fear that he would be fined at least RM50,000 by the court.

The alleged act prompted the salesman to hand over RM10,000 at an apartment in Jalan Kepong, Sentul at 12pm on December 23, 2023.

The charge, under Section 384 of the Penal Code read together with Section 34 of the same Act, carries a maximum jail term of 10 years, or a fine, or whipping, or any two of these punishments upon conviction.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Amritpreet Kaur Randhawa did not offer bail as the offence is non-bailable, while lawyer Ahmad Ikram Ab Halim, representing all the accused, applied for minimum bail on the grounds that his clients were the sole breadwinners of their families and had fully cooperated during investigations.

Magistrate Farah Nabihah Muhamad Dan allowed bail of RM8,000 for each accused with two sureties, with additional conditions requiring them to report monthly at the nearest police station and not to disturb witnesses or the victim until the case is concluded.

The court fixed July 8 for mention. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 — Both Taylor’s University and Monash University Malaysia said this afternoon that their campuses have resumed normal operations, after police confirmed that it was safe to do so.

Earlier today, Taylor’s University campus in Subang Jaya was reportedly evacuated.

In a brief statement posted on its Facebook page around 3pm, Taylor’s University explained it had “activated its emergency response procedures following a reported bomb threat”.

“The campus was immediately evacuated, and access was restricted while authorities conducted the necessary security assessments.

“Following a thorough security sweep, the Subang Jaya District Police have confirmed that the situation is all clear. Taylor’s Lakeside Campus is safe, and normal operations may resume,” it said in the statement.

Taylor’s University thanked its students, staff, visitors, emergency responders and the authorities for their cooperation, swift response and professionalism.

In its latest update this afternoon, Monash University Malaysia said it had “resumed normal campus operations” today, following a thorough security assessment by local authorities in response to yesterday’s reported bomb threat.

The university thanked both the Subang Jaya and Larkin district police and the university’s own security team for their swift response.

“We are continuing to work closely with local authorities to investigate this matter and have temporarily increased security at our campus to ensure the health and safety of our community,” it said, also thanking its community for their patience while work was done to facilitate a safe return to normal campus operations.

Monash University Malaysia this afternoon also posted a link to its website, where it gave a timeline of key developments in response to the reported security incident.

Previously, the university said it had activated emergency response procedures last night following a reported bomb threat, including evacuation of campus and restricted access as precautionary measures while authorities conducted a thorough assessment.

Based on the timeline provided on its website, Monash University Malaysia in an update dated yesterday at 11.53pm said the Subang Jaya police had gave the clearance for its Sunway City campus to resume normal operations.

In the same timeline, the university in an update dated today at 5.51am said police had also given clearance for its CSJB campus in Johor to resume normal operations.

KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 — The Election Commission (EC) has received official notification of the dissolution of the Negeri Sembilan State Legislative Assembly today. 

EC chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun said the commission received a letter from Negeri Sembilan State Assembly Speaker Datuk M K Ibrahim Abd Rahman notifying it of the dissolution of the 15th State Legislative Assembly under Article 56(2) of the state constitution.

He said Article 56(4) of the state constitution requires a state election to be held within 60 days of the dissolution of the assembly.

“Accordingly, a special meeting to discuss the key dates for the Negeri Sembilan state election will be held on a date to be announced later,” he said in a statement today.

Last night, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun announced at a special press conference at his official residence that the state assembly had been dissolved effective today to pave the way for the 16th state election.

Aminuddin said the dissolution followed the consent of the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, during an audience at Istana Besar Seri Menanti. — Bernama

PUTRAJAYA, June 5 — Government spokesperson Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has stressed that the suspension of access to the MyKhas portal for the Members of Parliament (MPs) for Petaling Jaya and Subang does not affect their rights or functions as elected representatives.

In fact, he said allocations channelled through the MyKhas platform are special funds under the prime minister’s purview and are separate from the facilities and entitlements provided to MPs through Parliament.

The communications minister also said residents in both constituencies would continue to have access to assistance despite the restrictions.

“The Implementation Coordination Unit of the Prime Minister’s Department (ICU JPM) has clarified that residents in both parliamentary constituencies may still submit applications, which will be assessed and approved directly by the ICU.

“As such, there is no issue regarding applications or the allocation of funds,” he told a press conference after the Cabinet meeting today.

Fahmi was responding to claims by Subang MP Wong Chen and Petaling Jaya MP Lee Chean Chung that their offices had been denied access to the MyKhas system, affecting applications for People-Friendly Projects (PMR) allocations in their constituencies.

Yesterday, the ICU JPM assured the public that all allocations intended for the people would continue to be disbursed and managed directly to ensure that public welfare remains unaffected.

The agency also said it would continue carrying out its coordinating role in an orderly manner to ensure the smooth and effective implementation of government programmes and initiatives for the benefit of the public. — Bernama

PUTRAJAYA, June 5 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has directed that all aspects of government digital service development be carried out internally to safeguard data security and sovereignty.

Madani Government spokesman Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, who is also communications minister, said the prime minister conveyed the directive during the Cabinet meeting today.

Fahmi said the internal development of digital services would be coordinated by the Ministry of Digital through the National Digital Department.

“This takes into account data security and sovereignty aspects, direct access to source code, as well as talent development, particularly among civil servants,” he told a post-Cabinet meeting press conference here today.

In another development, Fahmi said the prime minister had instructed that firm action be taken against any party found abusing licences, visas or business facilities in the country.

“We leave it to the relevant authorities to take action in accordance with the law, and we remind all business operators to always comply with regulations and laws, especially those holding licences to conduct business or undertake commercial activities,” he said. — Bernama

KUALA PILAH, June 5 — The Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir today performed Friday prayers at Masjid Kariah Gunung Pasir in Seri Menanti.

His Royal Highness was accompanied by his sons, Tunku Besar of Seri Menanti Tunku Ali Redhauddin and Tunku Zain Al-’Abidin.

The prayers were led by Masjid Kariah Gunung Pasir's Imam 1, Wan Muhammad Saifuddin Wan Salim.

After the prayers, Tuanku Muhriz attended a luncheon with more than 500 members of the public at Luak Tanah Mengandung. — Bernama

KOTA KINABALU, June 5 — Police have arrested 18 men to assist in investigations into two fights that occurred in Kampung Air early Thursday morning.

In the first incident, at about 4am, a local man in his 20s sustained injuries to his right calf after being stabbed with a sharp object believed to be a stingray spine while at a food outlet in the area.

The victim was then rushed to the Queen Elizabeth II Hospital (HQE II) for treatment and is reported to be in stable condition.

Acting Kota Kinabalu district police chief Supt Syed Lot Syed Abdul Rahman said initial investigations found that the incident stemmed from a disagreement between several individuals before escalating into a fight.

He said the victim, who attempted to break up the altercation, was believed to have been attacked by several suspects, resulting in his injuries.

“About an hour later, another fight was reported at the same location, which is believed to be linked to the earlier incident.

“In the second incident, a man sustained facial injuries after being assaulted by several individuals,” he said in a statement.

Syed Lot said police subsequently arrested 18 men believed to have been involved in the incidents.

Police also seized several items believed to be connected to the case, he said, adding that initial urine tests conducted on all suspects returned negative results for drug abuse.

Syed Lot said the case is being investigated under Section 148 of the Penal Code for rioting using weapons and Section 324 of the Penal Code for intentionally causing injury using a weapon or dangerous instrument.

Syed Lot urged members of the public who witnessed the incidents or have relevant information to come forward and assist police by contacting the investigating officer, Insp Movendran A/L Apoorvasamy, at 018-574 6310.

Syed Lot also reminded the public not to speculate or spread unverified information that could disrupt investigations and affect public order.

“The police view seriously any acts of violence and fighting that could threaten public security and order and will take strict action against any individual who violates the law,” he said. — The Borneo Post

KUCHING, June 5 — A 28-year-old man who stole two Australian Wagyu beef cuts and two salmon trout from a supermarket here was sentenced to one month’s imprisonment and fined RM1,500, in default one month’s jail.

Mohammad Hanim Suita pleaded guilty before Magistrate Ling Hui Chuan to a charge under Section 380 of the Penal Code, which provides for a jail term of up to 10 years and a fine upon conviction.

The offence was committed at a supermarket in a shopping centre along Jalan Canna here at about 12.30am on June 1.

Based on the facts of the case, a complainant at the shopping centre noticed a suspicious-looking man, later identified as the accused, leaving the premises.

The complainant, together with a security guard, subsequently apprehended the man on suspicion of stealing items from the supermarket.

Upon inspection, they found several food items believed to have been stolen in the basket of the man’s motorcycle. The accused was then handed over to the police for further action.

In mitigation, the accused pleaded for a fine-only sentence, saying he had stolen the food items to be resold to get medication for his sexually transmitted infection (STI).

However, deputy public prosecutor Muhammad Afiq Safly Nor Kazly urged the court to impose an appropriate sentence commensurate with the offence.

The accused was unrepresented. — The Borneo Post

KANGAR, June 5 — Rumours of a no-confidence motion against Menteri Besar Abu Bakar Hamzah never materialised as the Perlis state assembly wrapped up its three-day sitting today.

Abu Bakar said this should end the polemics dogging his administration and prove that Perikatan Nasional (PN) representatives, especially from PAS and Bersatu, are still working together, Harian Metro reported this afternoon.

“Alhamdulillah, today it is crystal clear.

“Actually, this issue (vote of no-confidence) is deliberately being played up by parties who are trying to pit us against each other and break the relationship between Perlis PN representatives.

"However, in politics we have to consider various possibilities.

“But today we have succeeded in proving that there is absolutely no motion or matter that can damage and sever ties between Bersatu and PAS,” he told reporters after the sitting ended at Kompleks Seri Putra here.

The Bersatu politician also expressed his appreciation to all PN assemblymen, especially from PAS, for their full commitment in not bringing such a motion.

He said the consensus was also a manifestation of the representatives’ obedience in upholding the Perlis Ruler Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail's wish for his administration to continue until the end of the term in December 2027.

“I would like to thank all parties, especially the assemblymen from PAS.

“Unwanted matters have been avoided and most importantly, we always remain calm in PN,” he said.

Commenting on the sitting which began last Wednesday, he praised the professional attitude of all members who debated maturely without touching on personal sensitivities.

The sitting was initially scheduled for April 21 to 23, but was amended later.

This sparked various speculations including demands for explanations from six PAS representatives.

However, Abu Bakar said the date change was made to give him space to carefully map out his leadership direction and state planning, as he had only been in the post for three months.

KANGAR, June 5 — The long-delayed Perlis Malaysia Sports School project in Bukit Chabang near Padang Besar is expected to be completed by January 2027, according to Menteri Besar Abu Bakar Hamzah.

He said the construction progress of the project has reached about 60 per cent and remains on track for completion within the projected timeline, with the federal government demonstrating a strong commitment to ensuring the project’s successful implementation.

“I met the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, last March, and he was very committed to helping Perlis and resolving the issue involving the Perlis Sports School.

“I sought his assistance, and the very next day he informed me that instructions had been issued to expedite the construction and completion of the sports school,” he told reporters after the State Assembly sitting today.

Abu Bakar said the sports school, named after the Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail, is expected to serve as a catalyst for the development of sports in the state and help produce more talented athletes in the future.

On April 27 last year, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in a Facebook post, stated that the Perlis Malaysia Sports School project, which had been abandoned for the past 12 years, should be handed over immediately to a capable government-linked company to ensure its completion. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 — The federal government today dismissed speculation of an early nationwide poll despite the dissolution of the state legislative assemblies in Johor and Negeri Sembilan.

Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said there have been no discussions on holding an early general election.

“At this time, there are no discussions regarding any effort to hold an early general election,” the government spokesman said at the Communications Ministry here this afternoon.

The clarification comes amid heightened political attention following the dissolution of the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state assemblies, which has fuelled speculation over possible spillover effects on federal politics.

Fahmi said the federal coalition government remains stable and unaffected by recent developments.

“There is no impact on the Unity government at the federal level,” he said, adding that the administration continues to function normally, including at Cabinet meetings.

He noted that the dissolutions in Johor and Negeri Sembilan followed constitutional processes after the respective menteri besar obtained royal assent from their state rulers.

Fahmi also moved to dispel speculation that a Cabinet photo session earlier today was linked to preparations for a parliamentary dissolution.

“That’s incorrect. So, the prime minister informed today that it was his wish for a photo session as there were new ministers being appointed into the Cabinet,” he said.

“The appointments and reshuffling were made last December and there wasn’t an opportunity to have a photo session.

“So the photo session has nothing to do with Parliament being dissolved. The timing was simply convenient as ministers were already gathered in Putrajaya for the ceremonial parade event and were dressed in official attire.

“There is no issue. It is a normal matter and has nothing to do with the dissolution of Parliament,” he added.

When asked about the annual PKR congress, Fahmi said any decision on its scheduling would be discussed at the party’s central leadership council meeting in Johor tomorrow.

“So let’s wait for tomorrow,” he said.

IPOH, June 5 — Members of the public and non-Malim Gunung Perhutanan (MGP) members are barred from joining the search and rescue operation for a female hiker missing at Gunung Batu Putih, Tapah, on safety grounds.

Malaysian Mountain Guides Association (PMGM) chairman, Muzafar Mohamad, said the decision was made because the Trans Beratih route, which is the focus of the search, is a relatively new trail unfamiliar to many, including some members of the MGP.

“Many are unaware that not all MGP members are familiar with the route, as the trail was only recently opened and is not a standard hiking path.

“If inexperienced members of the public enter the area in large groups, we are concerned it may result in more incidents or tragedies rather than uncovering new leads,” he told Bernama, referring to the announcement of the cancellation of public SAR operations for Jaslinda Saludin, 49, scheduled for tomorrow, posted on the Perak MGP Facebook page.

Muzafar said the police, Fire and Rescue Department, Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM), the General Operations Force (GOF) and the state Forestry Department all supported restricting participation in the operation to minimise the risk of accidents.

“The journey to the victim’s last location via the Perak route takes at least two and a half days on foot, making the search operation highly challenging.

“In previous operations, SAR teams also used helicopters to deploy personnel to the search area due to the long distance and difficult terrain,” he said.

Muzafar said the Perak MGP is coordinating with its counterparts in Pahang, who plan to access the search area via the Pos Titom route, believed to be closer to the summit of Gunung Batu Putih.

“However, the effort remains subject to approval from the relevant authorities, including the district officer and the state Forestry Department.

“In addition, Team Pelindung, a non-governmental organisation under the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan), together with Orang Asli communities in Pos Lenjang and Pos Titom, has carried out several searches on the Pahang side, including setting up trail cameras and tracking routes that the victim may have taken,” he said.

Muzafar said the Perak MGP, the Fire and Rescue Department and the Forestry Department are continuing to work closely and stay in regular contact to coordinate the SAR operation and decide on the search areas to be covered.

“We suggest that members of the public who wish to help channel their contributions directly to the Orang Asli communities in Pos Titom and Pos Lenjang in Pahang, who are assisting in the search, as the operational funds currently managed in Perak are sufficient.

“The involvement of local communities, especially the Orang Asli, is crucial as they have deep knowledge of the forest and have been helping with the search efforts since the operation began,” he said.

The SAR operation for Jaslinda is now continuing on a targeted, small-scale basis led by the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM), focusing on areas identified as having new clues to her disappearance.

Jaslinda was reported to have begun the Trans Spencer Chapman trek at 2 am on May 23 together with 13 others and two MGP members, taking the Pos Gedung-Gunung Bah Gading-Gunung Batu Putih-Kuala Woh route.

The private sector employee and another climber, Mohd Hanafi Neikmad, 41, were reported to have experienced health issues and stopped their ascent. However, Jaslinda is believed to have continued towards the summit and was last seen on May 24. — Bernama

KANGAR, June 5 — Perlis Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Abu Bakar Hamzah today said the state government will adopt a wait-and-see approach following a meeting between PAS and Umno leaders in Kuala Lumpur, stressing that any political development must place Malay unity at the forefront.

He said Malay-based political parties should work together and remain united in defending the rights and interests of the community, Utusan Malaysia reported this afternoon.

“As far as I am concerned, we will wait and see how the situation develops. What is important is the unity of the Malays. Even within our own parties, we should maintain good relations. Whatever problems arise, we should discuss them properly and not quarrel.

“The people are the ultimate judges who will determine the direction of the country’s leadership, and that is the most important thing,” the Bersatu politician was quoted as saying after the Perlis State Legislative Assembly sitting at Kompleks Seri Putra here.

He was responding to PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang’s confirmation that PAS and Umno leaders had met yesterday, with the Marang MP describing it as a routine meeting. 

Abdul Hadi had also said efforts to revive Muafakat Nasional were consistent with PAS’ long-standing objective of strengthening Malay-Muslim political cooperation.

On the current Perlis assembly sitting, Abu Bakar said proceedings had been smooth, with assemblymen debating issues professionally without resorting to personal attacks.

“This is where we want to preserve the relationship within the PN government, which is the most important thing. It is about maintaining good relations among all assemblymen and the entire state leadership,” he said.

Closer to home, the menteri besar also moved to bury revived allegations of statutory declarations (SDs) allegedly aimed at removing his predecessor, Datuk Seri Mohd Shukri Ramli.

He said his earlier remarks were merely intended as advice and a reminder to Perlis PAS Youth chief Haziq Asyraf Dun to stop reviving the old controversy surrounding the alleged document.

“As I said yesterday, regarding the SD issue, I never mentioned it and we do not know whether it exists because we were summoned one by one by His Royal Highness the Raja of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail.

“I also did not say whether it exists or not; I merely asked that the matter be stopped. Whatever the case, if such matters exist, we should put them behind us.

“I was simply offering advice and a reminder to the PAS Youth chief that we should stop talking about this SD issue. We should focus on the assembly sitting and on preparing our election machinery,” he was quoted as saying.

Yesterday, Utusan Malaysia reported that PAS Youth maintained its belief that there had been an effort involving SDs signed by Bersatu assemblymen to bring down Mohd Shukri, based on alleged admissions by three former PAS assemblymen whose party memberships had been terminated during a meeting with PAS central leadership on Dec 21 last year.

Abu Bakar said the state government remained firm in its view that the SD issue should not be revisited because it was an old matter that certain parties were attempting to revive.

“Today it is crystal clear that this matter will not be raised again, God willing,” he was quoted as saying.

GEORGE TOWN, June 5 — The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) issued 17 compounds last month to individuals found feeding pigeons and crows as part of efforts to curb the growing population of pest birds in urban areas.

In a statement today, MBPP said feeding birds was among the key factors contributing to the increasing population of pest birds, particularly pigeons and crows, on the island.

“The compounds were issued under Section 47(1)(g) of the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974 against individuals who failed to comply with the prohibition.

“Throughout May, MBPP also conducted continuous control operations, during which 1,817 pigeons and 2,607 crows were culled, while 125 crow nests were destroyed to prevent a further increase in their population,” the statement said.

MBPP also said it would continue to step up control operations and enforcement activities from time to time to ensure a clean, safe and conducive urban environment for all Penangites.

The city council also reminded the public not to feed wild birds, as such action could contribute to an increase in the population of pest birds and adversely affect public hygiene and health. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 — The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) has confirmed that all personnel of the Malaysian Battalion (Malbatt) 850-13 serving in southern Lebanon are safe and unaffected following a mortar attack on UNP 7-2, the Spanish Battalion (Spanbatt) position in the Eastern Sector, on Wednesday.

In a statement today, the MAF said the incident, which occurred at 11.20pm local time, left three Spanbatt peacekeepers injured, while one of them was confirmed dead yesterday morning.

“The MAF extends its condolences to the family of the fallen Spanbatt peacekeeper and prays for the swift recovery of those injured,” the statement said.

The MAF reiterated its firm position that any form of attack, including indirect fire targeting peacekeeping forces, constitutes a serious violation of international humanitarian law and the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701.

“As a tactical response to this development, the security and base protection profile of the Malbatt 850-13 contingent has been immediately elevated to the highest warning level (Status Level Red).

“All patrol movements have been temporarily suspended. The contingent is now operating under the strictest Standard Operating Procedure and defensive Rules of Engagement as stipulated by the Unifil Headquarters,” the statement said.

The statement added that the MAF, through the Joint Forces Headquarters, is continuously monitoring the operational situation to ensure the highest level of safety for Malaysian personnel carrying out their mandate in the conflict zone. — Bernama

IPOH, June 5 — Penang deputy police chief Datuk Mohd Alwi Zainal Abidin has been appointed as the new Perak chief police officer, effective today.

The handover of duties ceremony, held at the Senior Police Officers’ Mess in Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah here, was witnessed by Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department director Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri.

Mohd Alwi replaces Datuk Noor Hisam Nordin, who has taken over as director of the Bukit Aman Crime Prevention and Community Safety Department.

At the same event, Datin Noormawati Abdul Latip handed over her duties to Datin Wan Norazah Wan Chik as the new Police Families Association (PERKEP) chairperson.

Mohd Alwi, 58, who hails from Pusing, Perak, has served in the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) for 35 years.

He previously served in the Sabah Police Contingent and held the post of Bukit Aman Management Department (Appointments) deputy director. — Bernama

PUCHONG, June 5 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today dismissed talk of Perikatan Nasional (PN) expanding into a broader political pact, saying he had no interest in tracking the Opposition’s political arithmetic.

Anwar said his focus remained on running the government, not on speculation over PN’s attempts to court other Malay-based parties.

“As for the pluses and minuses of PN, I do not concern myself with PN.

“I have many other matters to attend to,” he told reporters after Friday prayers at Masjid Meranti here.

Anwar was asked to comment on PN’s reported proposal to form “PN Plus” by bringing in other Malay-based parties.

His remarks follows renewed speculation over possible PAS-Umno cooperation after PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang confirmed earlier today that leaders from both parties had met recently.

The speculation has intensified following Hadi’s remarks that PAS was reviewing its relationship with PN ally Bersatu ahead of the 16th general election.

Hadi has also raised the possibility of PAS moving forward without Bersatu if consensus within PN could not be reached.

Calls for a broader Malay-Muslim political alignment have also surfaced within PAS, with several party leaders proposing a revived cooperation framework involving Umno and other Malay and Muslim-based parties.

KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 — The High Court here today partially allowed an application by former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak to obtain several documents ahead of the hearing of the US$8 billion civil suit filed by 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) and its subsidiaries against him and seven others.

Judicial Commissioner Mohamad Redzuan Idrus granted Najib access to five categories of documents, including a complete list of all monies, assets and properties recovered, returned, repatriated or realised, as well as documents detailing the terms and conditions of settlements relating to 1MDB’s financial losses arising from alleged abuse of power and breaches of fiduciary duties.

“In balancing the first defendant’s concerns regarding state confidentiality against the scope of the application, the court adopts a targeted discovery approach.

“The plaintiffs are ordered, within 21 days from the date of this order, to make and serve on the first defendant (Najib) an affidavit stating whether the documents are or have at any time been in their possession, custody or power, and to produce them for inspection and copying.

“However, the discovery order is strictly limited to five documents, in respect of which the plaintiffs have admitted partial possession,” he said.

Mohamad Redzuan further ordered that the documents be disclosed only to the judge or judicial commissioner presiding over the case, court personnel, the parties involved in the suit, and their respective solicitors and counsel.

He also ordered that the documents be treated as strictly confidential, used solely for the proceedings and not made available for public inspection.

The suit, filed on May 7, 2021, initially named 15 individuals, including Najib, as defendants.

However, seven parties were subsequently removed from the lawsuit, namely former chief executive officers (CEOs) Mohd Hazem Abdul Rahman and Datuk Shahrol Azral Ibrahim Halmi, former directors Tan Sri Che Lodin Wok Kamaruddin, Tan Sri Ismee Ismail, Tan Sri Ong Gim Huat and Ashvin Jethanand Valiram, and former chief financial officer Azmi Tahir.

The remaining defendants are Loo Ai Swan, Tang Keng Chee, Geh Choh Heng, Vincent Beng Huat Koh, Nik Faisal Ariff Kamil, Kelvin Tan Kay Jin and Radhi Mohamad.

The US$8 billion suit is one of 22 civil suits filed to claim over US$23 billion on behalf of 1MDB and its former subsidiary SRC International Sdn Bhd against several individuals allegedly involved in the financial scandal. — Bernama 

PUCHONG, June 5 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today reaffirmed Putrajaya’s recognition of Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir as the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, as the state’s royal succession dispute widened into the courts, the police and now a snap election.

The prime minister also questioned the optics of claims that a new Ruler had been proclaimed at a hotel in Melaka, saying matters involving the monarchy should be handled in a way that preserves the institution's dignity and public confidence.

“Based on the constitutional line of succession as it stands, we continue to recognise Tuanku Muhriz as the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan.

"We ask that any differing views be pursued through legitimate constitutional channels without causing public anxiety, complicating state affairs or disrupting the state government,” he told reporters after Friday prayers at Masjid Meranti here.

Anwar said while individuals have the right to seek remedies under the law and state constitution, attempts to remove a ruler carry far-reaching implications for the country.

“I do not deny anyone's right to pursue matters through the proper legal channels and under the state constitution.

“However, the arguments put forward must be strong.

“Removing or abolishing any ruler would have very significant implications for the country and its stability,” he said.

He said the federal government, while not directly involved in the dispute, had a responsibility to offer its views given the importance of the monarchy to national stability.

“That is why we take this matter seriously, and I have conveyed these views to the relevant parties.

“We must follow the legal process.

“The court has already made its decision and we have also offered our advice,” he said.

Anwar also took issue with reports that a rival proclamation had been conducted at a hotel after a planned meeting of the Dewan Keadilan dan Undang (DKU) was blocked.

“However, the declaration was still made at a hotel, which I believe also affects the image and identity of the monarchy when such matters are conducted on hotel premises,” he said.

His remarks came a day after the Negeri Sembilan Legislative Assembly was dissolved with Tuanku Muhriz’s consent, paving the way for a state election.

Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun announced the dissolution after an audience with the ruler at Istana Besar Seri Menanti.

Anwar supported the move, saying an election was the best way to avoid prolonged uncertainty arising from the dispute surrounding the state's royal institution.

“That is why I fully support the menteri besar's position that, given the confusion and uncertainty surrounding this matter, the best course of action is to hold an election, and Tuanku has consented to that,” he said, referring to Tuanku Muhriz by the latter’s title.

The dispute escalated earlier today after the High Court granted an interim injunction preventing a planned DKU meeting and restraining efforts to remove its secretary, Raja Norazli Raja Nordin, pending further proceedings.

Despite the court order, former Dewan Negara president Tan Sri Rais Yatim later claimed that Tunku Nadzaruddin Tuanku Ja'afar had been proclaimed the 12th Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan during a gathering at a hotel in Alor Gajah, Melaka.

KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 — Police are investigating claims that a 63-year-old woman detained by Nigerian authorities for allegedly attempting to smuggle 31 kilogrammes (kg) of Canadian Loud cannabis into the country had been set up by her daughter.

Bukit Aman Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department (NCID) director Datuk Hussein Omar Khan said the claim is under investigation and efforts to trace the woman’s daughter are ongoing.

“Efforts to locate the woman’s daughter are still underway, and the allegation that she was set up by her daughter is also being investigated,” he said when contacted today.

Hussein said the Royal Malaysia Police had been informed of the arrest by Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

International media previously reported that the woman was detained by Nigerian authorities on May 17 after allegedly attempting to smuggle 31kg of Canadian Loud cannabis into the country through Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

The naturalised Malaysian citizen is understood to have arrived in Nigeria on a flight from Thailand via Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). She is believed to have travelled from Malaysia to Thailand before heading to Nigeria, carrying two large suitcases containing the illicit substance.

During questioning, the woman claimed that the trip had been sponsored by her daughter and that she had stayed in Thailand for about two weeks before receiving the package for delivery to Nigeria. — Bernama 

KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 — Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin will not be making a return to contest in the upcoming Johor election, according to Johor Perikatan Nasional (PN) chief Datuk Dr Sahruddin Jamal.

The confirmation comes amid mounting speculation over candidate line-ups after Johor's state assembly was dissolved this week ahead of fresh polls.

“So far no, and I have not been informed (about Muhyiddin contesting a state seat),” Dr Sahruddin was quoted by New Straits Times as saying today.

He said there had been no discussions within Johor PN regarding the former Gambir assemblyman contesting any state seat.

Muhyiddin sat out the 2022 Johor election and did not defend the Gambir seat he had held since 2018, which was subsequently won by Barisan Nasional.

He also served as the Bukit Serampang assemblyman from 1986 to 1995.

Dr Sahruddin also said he plans to run a third term in Bukit Kepong and dismissed the prospect of PN fielding national-level heavyweights to strengthen its campaign in Johor.

Instead, he said the coalition's candidate line-up would be drawn largely from its existing state leadership ranks.

Dr Sahruddin added that seat negotiations among Johor PN's component parties were close to being finalised ahead of the polls, the date which is yet to be announced by the Election Commission.

PUCHONG, June 5 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today said he would have preferred Johor to delay its state election by a few months to allow the government to focus on economic recovery and addressing people’s concerns.

Anwar said he had urged leaders within the federal government to concentrate on economic issues and bread-and-butter matters affecting the rakyat before turning their attention to electoral contests.

“We had time. I felt we should spend these two or three months fully focused on recovery efforts before holding elections. 

“However, because Johor wanted to proceed quickly, we have had to go through the process,” he told reporters after Friday prayers at Masjid Meranti in Puchong.

Anwar noted that Johor’s decision to press ahead left Pakatan Harapan (PH) with little choice but to prepare for the polls at short notice.

The prime minister added that preparations for both the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections were under way following the dissolution of the latter’s state assembly last night.

The Johor State Legislative Assembly was dissolved on June 1, paving the way for the state election to be held within 60 days. 

In the 2022 Johor state election, Barisan Nasional won 40 seats, PH secured 12, Perikatan Nasional won three, while Muda captured one.

Separately, Anwar backed the Negeri Sembilan government’s decision to dissolve the state legislative assembly, saying the move was necessary to prevent prolonged uncertainty amid issues involving the state’s royal institution.

He said disputes concerning the monarchy should be resolved through proper legal and constitutional channels, warning that challenges involving a ruler could have significant implications for national stability.

“That is why I fully support the Menteri Besar’s position that, given the confusion and uncertainty surrounding this matter, the best course of action is to hold an election, and Tuanku has consented to that,” he said.

Anwar added that the election would provide a clear path forward for the state administration while avoiding further complications arising from the ongoing dispute.

KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 — Transparency International Malaysia (TI-M) today expressed concern over the increasing use of compounds, settlements and charge withdrawals in corruption-related cases, warning that repeated reliance on such mechanisms without adequate public explanation risks weakening confidence in anti-corruption institutions and perceptions of accountability.

In a statement, the anti-graft watchdog said recent reports, including a case involving a former public official who was freed from a bribery charge after paying a compound, had raised concerns about how corruption-related cases are being resolved.

While acknowledging that Malaysian law permits compounds and other discretionary mechanisms in certain circumstances, TI-M said there must be greater transparency, consistency and public confidence in how such powers are exercised.

“While asset recovery serves an important public interest objective, recovery alone should not be regarded as a substitute for accountability,” TI-M president Raymon Ram said in a statement.

“Corruption is not merely a financial loss to be recovered. It is an abuse of entrusted power that undermines public institutions, weakens governance, and erodes trust in the rule of law.”

TI-M said it has repeatedly voiced concerns over the use of compounds, settlements and discontinuance arrangements in corruption and corruption-linked cases, particularly where such outcomes may affect public perceptions of accountability and the equal application of the law.

The organisation pointed to several corruption and corruption-linked cases over recent years that were resolved through compounds, settlements, asset recovery arrangements or prosecutorial withdrawals. 

These included the discontinuance of a 1MDB-linked money laundering prosecution in 2020 following an asset recovery arrangement, the acquittal and discharge of a senior political figure after paying a RM1.1 million compound in 2021, and the acquittal and discharge of an individual facing corruption and money laundering charges after paying a RM4.1 million compound in 2025.

TI-M also referred to the recent public endorsement of a recovery-first approach in financial crime and tax-related enforcement matters involving RM900 million and RM28 million in penalties and compounds.

While noting that each case involved its own legal and evidential considerations, TI-M said the cumulative effect had contributed to a growing public perception that certain corruption and corruption-linked matters were increasingly being resolved through negotiated financial outcomes rather than judicial scrutiny.

The group acknowledged that the Attorney General, acting as Public Prosecutor, has broad prosecutorial discretion under Article 145(3) of the Federal Constitution and that certain offences may be compounded under existing legislation, including provisions under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001.

However, TI-M said the existence of such powers did not diminish the need for transparency, consistency and public confidence in how they are exercised, particularly in corruption and corruption-linked matters.

The organisation warned of the risk of normalising what many Malaysians increasingly perceive as a “pay-to-settle” culture, saying repeated reliance on financial settlements without sufficient public explanation could create the perception that accountability can be negotiated.

TI-M said such perceptions risk weakening deterrence, eroding confidence in anti-corruption institutions and fostering a belief that accountability can be negotiated rather than determined through due process and judicial scrutiny.

Referring to Malaysia’s improvement in the Corruption Perceptions Index earlier this year, with its score rising from 50 to 52 points, TI-M said sustainable progress would require more than asset recovery and headline achievements.

It called for greater transparency from the Attorney General’s Chambers and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission whenever corruption-related charges are discontinued following compounds, settlements or recovery arrangements.

TI-M also urged the publication of clear guidelines governing the use of such mechanisms in corruption-related cases, stronger oversight and reporting of discretionary settlement arrangements, and faster implementation of institutional reforms, including separating the functions of the Attorney General and Public Prosecutor.

“This is not a call to abandon legitimate asset recovery efforts,” Raymon said.

“Rather, it is a call to ensure that recovery complements accountability and does not become perceived as a substitute for it.”

He added that Malaysia’s anti-corruption efforts must not only be effective, but must also be seen to be fair.

“At a time when the nation is striving to strengthen integrity and confidence in its institutions, accountability must remain clear, transparent, and consistently applied,” he said.

PUTRAJAYA, June 5 — Malaysia has condemned the continuing attacks on United Nations peacekeepers in Lebanon and extended its condolences to Serbia following the death of a Serbian peacekeeper serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil).

In a statement on Friday, the Foreign Ministry said Malaysia stood in solidarity with Unifil and condemned in the strongest terms the continuing attacks targeting United Nations peacekeepers.

“These attacks on peacekeepers and the civilian population continue amidst escalating hostilities, as a direct result of Israel’s violations of Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and are unjustifiable,” it said.

The Malaysian government extended its deepest condolences to the family and Government of Serbia following the death of a Serbian peacekeeper on Thursday, as a result of injuries sustained in an incident near Marjayoun, southern Lebanon, on June 3.

Malaysia also wished two peacekeepers from El Salvador and Spain a speedy recovery after they were injured in the incident, the ministry said.

“Malaysia calls for an end to these hostilities and for all parties to fully uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law to ensure the protection of UN peacekeepers and the civilian population in Lebanon,” the ministry said.

Malaysia is among the countries contributing personnel to Unifil, which operates in southern Lebanon under a United Nations mandate. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 — A taxi driver pleaded not guilty in the High Court here today to a charge of trafficking 748.59 grammes of cannabis last year.

Mohd Faris Ali, 55, entered the plea after the charge was read out to him before Judge Datuk Aslam Zainuddin.

He is accused of trafficking the drug at Jalan 3/149J, Bandar Baru Seri Petaling, Kuala Lumpur, at about 5 pm on Jan 23, 2025.

The charge was framed under Section 39B(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 and is punishable under Section 39B(2) of the same Act, which carries the death penalty or life imprisonment and no less than 12 strokes of the cane, upon conviction.

Deputy public prosecutor Mohamad Shahrizzat Amadan appeared for the prosecution, while the accused was unrepresented.

The court fixed July 20 for a further mention to allow for the appointment of defence counsel. — Bernama

DUNGUN, June 5 — A total of 196 drug addicts, including three women, were detained in an operation by the National Anti-Drug Agency (Nada) in Terengganu.

Nada Enforcement and Security Division director Mahadzir Elias said the operation was conducted in the districts of Kuala Terengganu, Hulu Terengganu, Besut and Dungun from Wednesday till today, adding that two civil servants were also detained.

“A location known as ‘Port Pekat Bayu’, which acted as a major transit point for the sale of drugs, was raided and 35 individuals suspected to be high on drugs were detained there,” he said at a media conference in the presence of Terengganu Nada director Arzmi Abdullah, after leading the operation here today.

The addicts detained in the three-day operation were aged between 19 to 66 and 159 of them tested positive for methamphetamine, 34 for ketum, two for cannabis and one for heroin.

There was also an incident where a drug addict brandished a knife at five Nada personnel during a raid on a house in the district today, he said, adding that the man surrendered 10 minutes later and was detained.

No one was harmed in the incident, Mahadzir said. — Bernama

GEORGE TOWN, June 5 — The implementation of the new water tariff in Penang, scheduled to take effect on July 1, cannot be postponed as it is crucial to ensure that various development and infrastructure upgrading projects can be carried out to safeguard the sustainability of future water supply.

State Transport, Infrastructure and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said the profits currently recorded by the Perbadanan Bekalan Air Pulau Pinang (PBAPP) are insufficient to finance the large-scale projects planned to meet rising water demand.

“Among the projects currently being implemented or planned are the construction of the Mengkuang Water Treatment Plant (LRA), which is now under construction, two new LRAs in Sungai Krian with capacities of 80 million litres per day (MLD) and 114 MLD, raw water abstraction projects in Sungai Prai and Sungai Muda, as well as the replacement of ageing pipelines.

“Each water treatment plant requires investments amounting to hundreds of millions of ringgit. All these projects require substantial funding and cannot be delayed, as they are essential to ensuring future water security,” he said at a press conference at Komtar today.

He was commenting on calls by several parties for the state government to defer the implementation of the new water tariff and provide a transparent explanation of the utility company’s financial position, administrative expenditure and future development plans.

Zairil added that one of the factors contributing to delays in the development of water supply infrastructure in the past was the excessively low tariff rate, which had limited PBAPP’s ability to invest in new facilities.

“If tariffs are too low, the revenue generated is insufficient to fund infrastructure investments. That is why we need to strengthen PBAPP’s financial resources to ensure that all planned projects can be implemented according to schedule,” he said.

At the same time, he stressed that PBAPP and the state government have taken into account the interests of domestic consumers, particularly low-volume water users, by ensuring that tariff increases for households consuming less than 35,000 litres of water per month remain manageable.

Yesterday, the state government announced that Penang would implement new water tariff rates for domestic and non-domestic consumers from July 1, after the adjustment had been deferred for 12 months.

The revision will affect 82 per cent of domestic consumers, or households using 35 cubic metres of water or less per month, with an increase of 8.5 sen, or RM2.55 per month. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 — Former Dewan Negara president Tan Sri Rais Yatim today claimed that Tunku Nadzaruddin Tuanku Ja’afar had been officially proclaimed the 12th Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan in Melaka, in apparent defiance of an interim injunction from the High Court. 

The proclamation was held at a five-star hotel in Alor Gajah, The Star reported this afternoon, hours after police briefly blocked several Undang and adat leaders from entering the official residence of the Tunku Besar of Tampin, where a special sitting of the Dewan Keadilan dan Undang (DKU) was held.

“The process was carried out according to the state’s adat followed by a royal address,” Rais was quoted telling reporters in Alor Gajah after the ceremony.

He said Undang Jelebu Datuk Maarof Mat Rashad and Tunku Besar Tampin Tunku Syed Razman Tunku Syed Idrus Al-Qadri were physically present, while three other adat leaders followed the proceedings remotely via Zoom.

He said lawyers and adat officials also witnessed the proceedings, which were conducted using scripts prepared by experts in Negeri Sembilan customary law.

“I can tell you that the rule of law according to the Constitution has been done and the rigmarole of the Adat has been fulfilled,” he was quoted as saying.

Rais added that Tunku Nadzaruddin was now free to carry out his duties as Ruler, despite the ongoing dispute over the state’s royal succession.

“We understand there may be some issues but we shall overcome these together,” Rais was quoted as saying.

The latest development comes amid a widening constitutional and customary crisis in Negeri Sembilan after four Undang announced in April that they had appointed Tunku Nadzaruddin as the new Ruler and sought to remove Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, a move rejected by the state government as unconstitutional.

Earlier today, police briefly barred several Undang from entering the Tunku Besar Tampin’s residence for a special DKU sitting before eventually allowing them in after tensions rose at the main gate.

Rais also questioned the legality of the Negeri Sembilan Legislative Assembly’s dissolution yesterday, arguing that Tunku Nadzaruddin had already been appointed Ruler by the Undang on April 19.

Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun had announced that the assembly was dissolved with the consent of Tuanku Muhriz, whom the state government continues to recognise as the legitimate Yang di-Pertuan Besar.

Rais, a former menteri besar of Negeri Sembilan from 1978 to 1982, further claimed that Article 28 of the state constitution defines the Ruler as including the Undang and alleged they had not been consulted over the dissolution.

The latest move follows a High Court application today by the DKU seeking an interlocutory injunction to stop five Undang and a Tunku Besar from holding a special sitting scheduled for June 5 and from interfering with the duties of its secretary Raja Norazli Raja Nordin.

The DKU said the injunction was necessary to preserve the council’s administration and governance pending the resolution of related court proceedings, amid a broader royal succession crisis that has seen disputes over the suspension of the DKU secretary and the removal of an Undang spill into the courts.

The Negeri Sembilan royal succession dispute erupted in April when four Undang and the Tunku Besar Tampin announced that Tunku Nadzaruddin had been selected as the state’s new Ruler and that Tuanku Muhriz should be removed.

The state government has rejected the move and maintains that Tuanku Muhriz remains the lawful Yang di-Pertuan Besar.

The dispute has since triggered multiple court actions, competing interpretations of adat and constitutional provisions, and an escalating stand-off between state authorities and several members of Negeri Sembilan’s traditional leadership.