KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — More than 50 Malaysian universities penetrated the QS World University Rankings Asia 2027 for the first time, with 11 emerging among the top 100 in Asia.

Overall, Malaysia is the eighth most represented higher education system in Asia, with 55 featured universities on the list. The country also stands on par with Japan and Korea with eight entries in the top 50.

Of the 16 Malaysian universities that achieved record-high positions for 2027, 12 were private universities.

They include Sunway University, INTI International University, Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU), SEGi University, IMU University, MILA University, Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology, Perdana University, Quest International University (QIU), Nilai University, UNITAR International University and Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah (UniSHAMS).

The highest-ranked private university was Taylor’s University at the 32nd spot, albeit dropping five spots from the previous edition.

Sunway University also ranked among the top 50 for the first time while INTI International University made it into the top 100 for the first time.

Universiti Malaya (UM) remained the country’s best-performing university, emerging among the top 20 universities in Asia for the ninth consecutive year despite slipping two spots to the 17th rank this edition.

Meanwhile, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) entered the top 20 for the first time, rising four spots from the previous edition while Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) emerged top in Asia for the Faculty with PhD indicator.

260,000 international students by 2030

QS senior vice-president Ben Sowter said Malaysia has more than doubled the number of universities in the top 100 in the QS World University Rankings: Asia in the last decade. The number of universities in the top 50 has also increased from only two in 2017 to eight in 2027.

“Its renown as an education hub in Southeast Asia is only growing, and research from QS suggests that, by the end of the decade, international student numbers are projected to reach about 260,000,” Sowter said.

According to the 2027 edition, Malaysia has the most well-represented higher education system in two key indicators. It has 24 universities in the top 100 entries for the International Faculty indicator and 31 in the top 100 entries in the International Students indicator.

However, it only has one entry in the top 100 for Citations per Paper and Papers per Faculty indicators.

How did other countries perform?

The QS Asia University Rankings 2027 evaluated 1722 universities across 26 locations.

The University of Hong Kong retained the top spot in the ranking while Peking University and Tsinghua University from China finished second and third respectively.

Hong Kong also recorded the highest number of universities in the top 10 while Japan logged one of Asia’s highest drop rates.

Meanwhile, Singapore’s two universities also dropped out of the top five, with the National University of Singapore (NUS) now ranking sixth in Asia while the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore settled at the eighth position.

Maldives also debuted this edition, featuring The Maldives National University and Villa College.

PUTRAJAYA, Nov 3 — Deputy Commissioner General of Prisons (Community) Hafidz Othman has been appointed the new Commissioner General of Prisons, effective Nov 5, the Prisons Department said.

In a statement today, the department said Hafidz received his appointment letter from Public Service director-general Tan Sri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz.

He will succeed Datuk Seri Abdul Aziz Abdul Razak, who has held the post since Feb 14, 2025.

Hafidz, who holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), began his career as a prison officer with the rank of Deputy Superintendent at Miri Prison in Sarawak.

During his 32 years of service, he has held several key positions, including heading Seremban Prison, Negeri Sembilan Prisons, the International Affairs and Prisoner Transfer Division, and the Correctional Division, according to the statement.

He also served as Deputy Commissioner General of Prisons (Management) in 2025.

The department expressed hope that Hafidz would draw on his experience, expertise and leadership to further strengthen its correctional services, in line with the aspirations of Malaysia Madani and the Public Service Reform Agenda. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — A total of RM20.271 billion in income tax refunds involving 3.65 million taxpayer cases had been paid as at Oct 31, 2026.

Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said of the total, RM6.84 billion had been refunded to 3.4 million individual taxpayers, while RM13.036 billion had been refunded to 206,234 corporate taxpayers, including micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“In carrying out the refunds, the government prioritises excess tax refunds to individuals as well as MSMEs,” he said during the winding-up session of the Supply Bill at the committee stage for the Ministry of Finance (MoF) in the Dewan Rakyat today.

Amir Hamzah also said that, in line with this approach, the number of taxpayers with excess tax credits had been reduced by almost half to about 550,000 as at Oct 31, 2026, compared with more than one million as at Dec 31, 2025.

“The government is also committed to ensuring that outstanding tax refunds are fully settled promptly, as part of efforts to improve tax administration efficiency and safeguard taxpayers’ rights, in line with the Madani government’s fiscal reform agenda,” he said in response to questions raised by Members of Parliament (MPs) for Bachok, Klang and Pendang.

Amir Hamzah reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the backlog of excess income tax refunds to ensure that all outstanding payments are made promptly.

A total of 27 MPs took part in the committee-stage debate on the MoF.

He said the views and feedback raised would help the government review how each allocation was managed and implemented for the benefit of the people.

Overall, the 2027 operating supply expenditure allocation for the ministry increased to RM68.16 billion, compared with the revised allocation of RM61.5 billion for this year.

He said the increase reflected the Madani government’s commitment to easing the cost of living and ensuring the well-being of the people. — Bernama

PASIR GUDANG, Nov 3 — The Johor government will focus on 337 flood hotspots statewide as the northeast monsoon is expected to affect the state from this month until January next year.

State Public Works, Transport, Infrastructure and Communications Committee chairman Mohamad Fazli Mohamad Salleh said priority would be given to areas with high population density and a history of major flooding, including the districts of Kota Tinggi, Batu Pahat and Segamat.

“Based on updates from the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), 35 flood hotspots, including new additions, have been identified.

“The Public Works Department (JKR) has also identified 30 high-risk road locations that comprise 21 sites on federal roads and nine on state roads,” he told reporters after a working visit to the Sungai Rinting flood wall project here today.

Also present were Permas assemblyman Baharudin Mohamed Taib and senior government agency officials.

Mohamad Fazli said the measures outlined included hotspot mapping, drain maintenance, cleaning and dredging drainage systems, ensuring machinery was ready, public outreach and the use of the eBencana (electronic disaster) reporting system.

He said the relevant projects included Phase 1 of the Sungai Johor Flood Mitigation Plan, the Sungai Pemandi Flood Mitigation Plan and a flood alleviation project in Kampung Sungai Kapal Lama in Pengerang.

In Batu Pahat, Mohamad Fazli said the DID had identified 41 flood hotspots, while the JKR had detected 21 high-risk locations along federal and state roads, covering a total distance of 6.5 kilometres.

He added that preparations would include road pavement maintenance works worth RM11.79 million, non-pavement works worth RM3.20 million and an allocation of RM1.92 million under the Malaysian Road Records Information System (MARRIS) for drainage-related works.

“Alternative route plans via the FT024 federal road and the PLUS Highway have also been planned.

“Mobile pumps at the Parit Botak sluice gate, flood mitigation projects – such as the Bandar Batu Pahat and Sungai Batu Pahat flood mitigation schemes – as well as coastal embankment upgrading works, are also being given due attention,” he said.

In Segamat, Mohamad Fazli said the DID had identified 29 flood hotspots, while the JKR had identified 16 high-risk locations, comprising eight federal roads and eight state roads.

“Efforts are also focused on monitoring river levels and roadways, as well as coordinating with the Batu Pahat district, which is located downstream,” he said.

In Muar, he said 65 flood hotspots had been identified, the highest number among the districts listed by the DID.

In Tangkak, 26 hotspots had been identified, with priority measures including inspecting culverts and drainage systems, monitoring roadways and coordinating maintenance efforts among the relevant agencies.

Mohamad Fazli said there were also 44 flood hotspots in Johor Bahru, 29 in Kluang, 19 in Pontian, 27 in Kulai and 22 in Mersing.

In a related development, he said the state government was preparing an application for an emergency allocation of between RM20 million and RM30 million to carry out maintenance works and flood preparedness measures in high-risk areas throughout November and December.

“Priority will be given to tasks that can be executed immediately, specifically maintenance work, whereas large-scale projects, such as the construction of embankments and flood-retaining walls, will require a longer timeframe,” he added.

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — A maritime industry executive today asked whether the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) would take further action on his report over alleged discrepancies in petroleum cargo records, following the Royal Malaysian Customs Department’s latest disclosure on import declaration irregularities.

Maritime Network Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Seri R. Jeyenderan lodged the report on June 5 over alleged discrepancies between bills of lading and the physical movement of petroleum cargo at Tanjung Langsat Port, Johor, in transactions reportedly worth millions of ringgit.

The report involved two petroleum cargoes totalling 76,954.325 metric tonnes of Atlanta Crude, valued at more than RM220 million, which were discharged at Tanjung Langsat.

Jeyenderan, who has more than 30 years of experience in the maritime industry, questioned whether the latest information from Customs could give MACC grounds to revisit the concerns raised in his report.

Customs director-general Datuk Seri Amran Ahmad was quoted by Harian Metro as saying that certain importers had allegedly manipulated documents, under-declared the value, weight and quantity of imported goods, and used incorrect tariff codes to evade or reduce import duties and taxes.

Amran said this could potentially result in millions of ringgit in revenue losses to the government.

Jeyenderan said the key concern was traceability, particularly how the authorities and relevant parties could establish what happened to the cargo after it entered storage tanks containing existing inventory, including any subsequent movement, mixing or blending.

He said the relevant records should show the quantity discharged into each tank, the existing inventory, subsequent product movements, laboratory specifications and the quantities eventually removed or transferred, to ensure an unbroken documentary trail.

He stressed that Maritime Network had acted only as the vessel or shipping agent for the cargo movements, and was not the cargo owner, terminal operator, laboratory or Customs authority.

As such, he said, the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved must be clearly established.

Jeyenderan wants MACC to clarify whether the Customs disclosure warrants further investigation, particularly regarding the accuracy of cargo declarations and the applicable regulatory treatment.

He said the main concern was whether the cargo declarations, supporting documents and actual physical movement of the petroleum products were consistent with the relevant Customs requirements.

He also called on the authorities to clarify whether there were any regulatory or revenue implications arising from the handling of petroleum cargoes, particularly where shared storage tanks and blending arrangements were involved.

MELAKA, Nov 3 — The new Bill to replace the now-repealed Universities and University Colleges Act 1971 (AUKU) will not affect students’ freedom of expression, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said.

He said the Cabinet agreed that the proposed legislation would be limited to matters concerning university administration, including academic affairs, governance and the appointment of senate members,

Ahmad Zahid also said that the new law would also cover the selection of university management personnel, including vice-chancellors and deputy vice-chancellors.

“The new legislation, which will carry a different name, will no longer include the seven provisions concerning students, including those on freedom, under AUKU, which restricted their freedom to engage in activities,” he said.

He was asked about the latest developments in the proposal for a new law to replace AUKU after attending the Apa Khabar Mahasiswa: Patriotisme Diperkasa programme at Universiti Teknologi Mara’s (UiTM) Alor Gajah Campus in Melaka today.

Also present at the event was Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir.

Ahmad Zahid, also the Rural and Regional Development Minister, said universities should not penalise students for expressing their opinions unless their remarks involved sensitive issues relating to race, religion and the royal institution (3R).

“Under AUKU, universities did take action against students. Now that the Act has been repealed, students remain subject to existing laws, including criminal legislation.

“...if students are simply expressing differing opinions, political beliefs or the views of young people, I believe universities should welcome this rather than take legal action against them, unless their actions breach the law,” he said.

In a separate development, Ahmad Zahid said enrolment for the Department of Quantum Technology at UiTM was expected to begin next semester under a training-for-trainers concept.

“Initially, the academic staff will be sent for master’s or PhD studies, or short courses, to equip those with backgrounds in information technology and digital technology to lead the department before it is upgraded to the Faculty of Quantum Technology,” he said.

Ahmad Zahid announced earlier in October that RM500,000 would be allocated as initial funding to establish UiTM’s Department of Quantum Technology. — Bernama

PUTRAJAYA, Nov 3 — The Madani government has approved more than RM250 million to strengthen the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) development in Kelantan, according to the Ministry of Finance (MOF).

This includes building a new bus terminal at the Kota Bharu ECRL Station and preliminary works for a proposed extension to Rantau Panjang, said the ministry in a statement today.

Of the total, RM30 million has been allocated for the new bus terminal, while more than RM200 million will fund preliminary works for the proposed ECRL extension from Kota Bharu to Rantau Panjang.

“The preliminary works include initial design, land surveys and investigations, an environmental impact assessment (EIA), preparation of the Railway Scheme and site preparation works to facilitate the project’s implementation in the next phase,” it said.

The investment aims to enhance transport infrastructure and create opportunities for competitive economic development in Kelantan. The development is expected to spur business activities, strengthen the logistics sector, attract investment and create job opportunities for the local population, said MOF.

The ministry emphasised that national development must be inclusive and balanced to ensure that the benefits of progress reach people throughout the country, including in Kelantan, rather than being concentrated solely in major cities. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — The Sessions Court hearing the case involving Fashion Valet Sdn Bhd (Fashion Valet) founders Datin Vivy Sofinas Yusof and her husband, Datuk Fadzarudin Shah Anuar, was told today that investment funds could not be used to pay dividends to any party, including the company’s shareholders.

Corporate lawyer Anne Wong Wai Yee, 49, who was involved in drafting the shareholders’ agreement between the couple and seven other companies, including Fashion Valet, on March 5, 2018, said the agreement did not contain any provision allowing investment funds to be used for such payments.

The other six companies were Proven Holding Sdn Bhd, MY E.G. Capital Sdn Bhd, Transasia E-Commerce Inc., Start Today Co. Ltd., Reussi Sdn Bhd and Pulau Tiga Ventures Sdn Bhd.

“The declaration of dividends requires the approval of a majority of the directors, including those appointed by Start Today Co. Ltd. and Pulau Tiga Ventures Sdn Bhd,” she testified during the trial of the couple, who are facing charges of criminal breach of trust involving RM8 million in investment funds from Khazanah Nasional Berhad (Khazanah) and Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB).

The sixth prosecution witness said the agreement also specified the permitted uses of the investment funds, namely expenditure on technology development, stores and warehouses, as well as products and brands.

“The permitted allocation of the investment funds was as follows: 30 per cent for consumer acquisition, 30 per cent for technology development, 20 per cent for store and warehouse expansion, and 20 per cent for product and brand acquisition, based on the total investment value.

“Typically, such expenditures require approval from a majority of the board of directors,” Wong said.

She said Fashion Valet was required to submit summaries of the utilisation of the investment funds to the board of directors on a quarterly and annual basis until the entire amount had been utilised.

“However, I have no knowledge of the distribution of dividends or the transfer of investment funds received by Fashion Valet, as my scope of work was limited to drafting and coordinating the contractual agreements.

“The subsequent execution of these agreements by the parties involved falls outside the scope of my professional duties,” said Wong, a partner at Karen Kaur & Anne Wong Partnership.

She further testified that Fashion Valet was prohibited from extending loans or credit to its directors, shareholders, related companies or any other parties without the approval of a majority of the board of directors.

“Furthermore, Fashion Valet is restricted from entering into any agreement or understanding with parties related to the company, its directors or shareholders, involving RM50,000 or more annually, without the approval of a majority of the directors, including those appointed by Start Today Co. Ltd. and Pulau Tiga Ventures Sdn Bhd,” she added.

Referring to a Subscription Agreement dated June 4, 2018, Wong said the document constituted a binding agreement between the relevant parties, namely Fashion Valet, Proven Holdings and PNB, concerning PNB’s investment in the company.

“Essentially, this agreement sets out the terms and conditions of PNB’s investment in Fashion Valet, whereby, in exchange for the investment, Fashion Valet would issue Redeemable Convertible Preference Shares (RCPS) to PNB,” she testified.

Vivy, 38, and Fadzarudin, 37, are charged with criminal breach of trust, allegedly committed with common intention in their capacity as directors of Fashion Valet, involving RM8 million in investment funds from Khazanah and PNB.

The charge alleges that they had authorised payments totalling RM8 million from Fashion Valet’s corporate bank account to a company known as 30 Maple without the approval of the company’s board of directors.

The alleged offence took place at the Public Bank Berhad branch in Bukit Damansara, at 36-40 Medan Setia 2, Plaza Damansara, Bukit Damansara, on Aug 21, 2018.

The charge, under Section 409 of the Penal Code, read together with Section 34 of the same Code, provides for imprisonment of between two and 20 years, whipping and a fine upon conviction.

The couple also pleaded not guilty to an alternative charge of dishonestly misappropriating, with common intention, property belonging to Fashion Valet, namely RM8 million in investment funds from Khazanah and PNB, at the same location and on the same date.

The alternative charge, under Section 403 of the Penal Code, carries a penalty of imprisonment of between six months and five years, whipping and a fine upon conviction.

The trial, before Judge Rosli Ahmad, continues on Nov 20. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — Traders who impose hidden charges or disclose additional fees only at the final stage of a transaction may face legal action, including fines of up to RM100,000, said Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali.

He said the practice misled consumers and undermined their right to know the actual price before making a purchase.

“This means consumers should have clear information on the amount they need to pay, rather than discovering certain charges at the final stage of a transaction,” he said in a written reply in the Dewan Rakyat today.

He was responding to a question from Muhammad Islahuddin Abas (PN-Mersing) on measures taken by the ministry to curb the practice of imposing additional or hidden charges disclosed only at the final stage of a transaction, resulting in the actual price exceeding the displayed or advertised price, particularly in the services, food and beverage, and online transaction sectors.

Armizan said Section 10B(1) of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 [Act 723] allows action against businesses that fail to include all taxes, duties, and other charges in the prices of goods or services they display, advertise, publish, or quote.

The same Act stipulates under Section 57 that corporate bodies found in breach of the provision may be fined up to RM100,000, while individuals face penalties of up to RM50,000 in fines, two years’ imprisonment, or both.

He said the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) also had enforcement powers under the Consumer Protection Act 1999 [Act 599], particularly Section 12(1)(a), which makes misleading representations about the price of goods or services an offence.

Section 12(3)(c) of the Act further stipulates that a price display is considered misleading if it gives the impression that the stated price covers everything, when additional charges are in fact imposed separately.

“Sections 9 and 10 of the Act also prohibit false or misleading claims about the nature and characteristics of goods or services. The provisions cover both transactions at physical business premises and online transactions.

“Those found in breach of the relevant provisions may be penalised under Section 145 of Act 599. The penalty for corporate bodies is a fine of up to RM100,000, while individuals may be fined up to RM50,000, jailed for up to three years, or both,” he said.

Armizan said KPDN had introduced guidelines on the All-Inclusive Pricing Policy to promote price transparency, particularly in the food and beverage, e-commerce and delivery sectors, requiring consumers to be informed of the total price, including the base price, service charges and delivery fees, before confirming an order.

He said the ministry also enforced the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering (Price Marking of Goods and Charges for Services) Order 2020, which requires service providers and business premises to display clearly and prominently a list of services offered and the charges imposed.

“The ministry will continue to step up monitoring and enforcement to ensure traders comply with price disclosure requirements, and urges consumers to check the final price before making payment.

“Consumers should also report to KPDN any instances of hidden fees or discrepancies between advertised prices and the actual amounts charged,” he added. — Bernama

KOTA KINABALU, Nov 3 — The ongoing construction of a high-altitude training centre on Mount Kinabalu has come under scrutiny, with indigenous groups and tourism stakeholders questioning its environmental impact, approvals and whether communities with customary ties to the mountain were adequately consulted.

The controversy surfaced around October 30 after photographs showing structures and apparent drilling activities near Sayat-Sayat circulated on social media, prompting calls for authorities to clarify the nature and purpose of the work.

The photographs prompted criticism over a lack of transparency, including from Kundasang Tourism and Culture Association chairman Datuk Japiril Suhaimin, who called for an investigation into the project's location, scope and approvals, as well as its potential effects on water sources, soil stability and biodiversity.

Bundu Tuhan Village Heritage and Culture head Adrian Soros also questioned whether communities with customary ties to the mountain had been consulted, saying many villagers were unaware of the construction.

He raised concerns about drilling into the mountain, which he said went against customary beliefs, as well as the protection of local water sources and the management of human waste at high altitude.

Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin subsequently issued a statement saying the project was not new and had originally been proposed under the Kinabalu Park Development Plan in 2015.

He said the project had obtained approval from the Sabah Parks Board of Trustees and endorsement from the Mount Kinabalu Native Customary Advisory Council.

“The HATC was originally proposed under the Kinabalu Park Development Plan in 2015, but its implementation was deferred following the earthquake that struck Mount Kinabalu that year.

“The initiative was subsequently revived and officially launched in 2025 as part of Sabah’s efforts to diversify its tourism offerings and strengthen its position as an internationally recognised mountaineering destination,” he said.

The new development would provide basic accommodation and specialised facilities to support high-altitude training and mountaineering activities.

Jafry said the centre was intended to cater to mountaineers preparing for expeditions to higher-altitude destinations, including Mount Kilimanjaro, Aconcagua and Mount Everest, by providing facilities for altitude acclimatisation, technical training and familiarisation with specialised climbing equipment.

He said construction involved lightweight, prefabricated and modular building materials to minimise environmental disturbance, with the structures designed to withstand strong winds and challenging weather conditions at higher elevations.

The construction method also avoided the use of heavy machinery in view of the mountain’s sensitive natural environment.

Jafry said the project’s approval and implementation must respect Mount Kinabalu’s cultural and spiritual significance to indigenous communities, as reflected in the involvement of the Native Customary Advisory Council.

The minister nevertheless emphasised that the approval did not exempt the project from complying with stipulated conditions, technical specifications and environmental regulations.

“We take the concerns raised by the public seriously. The ministry will consider a comprehensive investigation to ascertain whether all approved specifications, environmental safeguards and regulatory conditions have been fully observed.

“Should any non-compliance be established, the ministry will not hesitate to pursue the necessary enforcement measures in accordance with the law,” he said.

However, despite his statement, the Dayak International Organisation (DIO) today called for all construction, drilling and installation work at the site to stop, alleging that the development violated indigenous customary law protected under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).

Its United Nations representative, Datuk Petinggi Andrew Ambrose Atama Katama, questioned the use of the Mount Kinabalu Native Customary Advisory Council to endorse the project, saying this did not replace the need for consent from communities, particularly the Kadazandusun and Momogun.

Andrew described Aki Nabalu as a sacred living entity and ancestral repository rather than a commercial asset for generating state revenue.

DIO also called for an independent environmental audit, including an assessment of wastewater impact on local water catchments, and said it would raise the matter at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues and the Unesco Global Geoparks Network.

Mount Kinabalu, also known as Aki Nabalu, is Sabah's highest peak at 4,095 metres and holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for indigenous communities, particularly the Kadazandusun.

Every year, locals hold sacred rituals to honour the mountain spirits, seek permission and protection, and ensure the safety and well-being of climbers.

Kinabalu Park was inscribed as a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2000 for its exceptional biodiversity, including thousands of plant species and a wide range of habitats.

JASIN, Nov 3 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has denied allegations that he intended to sabotage the Madani Government by revealing the cancellation or postponement of rural development projects in Sabah and Sarawak.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also Rural and Regional Development Minister, maintained that his remarks concerning the suspension or cancellation of Letters of Acceptance (SSTs) for the projects were factual, adding that he was prepared to produce official documents to substantiate his claims.

“I had no such intention (to sabotage the government). Whether the projects have been postponed or cancelled, the fact remains that there were instructions to cancel all SSTs that have been or are due to be issued.

“I have documentary evidence of the instructions. I can show it,” he told reporters after officiating the  Mara Higher Education and TVET Tour 2026 programme in Melaka here today.

Yesterday, Jelutong MP RSN Rayer, while interjecting during a debate in the Dewan Rakyat, questioned Ahmad Zahid’s statement concerning the cancellation of rural development projects in Sabah and Sarawak.

Rayer described the remarks as an attempt to sabotage the Madani Government. — Bernama

PUTRAJAYA, Nov 3 — Spot checks on drainage systems and cleaning works in Kuala Lumpur are being stepped up to keep drains clear and reduce the risk of flash floods, especially during the rainy season.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh said these checks must be carried out thoroughly, including during the dry season, to ensure cleaning works are done properly and drainage systems function well.

She said clean-looking roads do not necessarily mean the drainage system is in good condition, as drains may be blocked without anyone noticing.

“That is why, before the rainy season, during the dry season, we have already reminded them... we must carry out spot checks,” she told reporters after launching the Community-Based Eco Recycling Hub (COB3R) at Presint 9 here today.

Hannah said each parliamentary branch office has also activated teams to conduct patrols and channel the latest reports on flash flood-prone areas to the Kuala Lumpur mayor.

She said active monitoring is crucial to ensure flash flood hotspots, which were successfully reduced from 30 to 14 over the past three years, do not rise again.

“The goal for Kuala Lumpur is to bring it down further to 10,” she added.

Hannah also said the frequency of cleaning and desilting works on Sungai Toba has increased from twice to six times a year as part of efforts to reduce the risk of flash floods.

She said changing weather patterns and extraordinary heavy rainfall require the authorities to reassess existing standard operating procedures (SOPs) and improve disaster preparedness.

“With the current weather, the current rain, we cannot use ordinary SOPs. We must be prepared,” she said, adding that Kuala Lumpur’s development planning must also adopt the sponge city approach by preserving open and green spaces to help absorb rainwater.

She said development in hilly areas must be strictly controlled to ensure the area’s natural capacity to hold rainwater is not compromised.

“You cannot replace this green space with concrete. The water needs a place to go,” she said. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has reportedly opened an investigation into a Facebook post suspected of containing highly offensive remarks against the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah.

According to Bernama, MCMC said in a statement today that the post was also suspected of touching on sensitivities involving race, religion and royalty (3R).

The commission said it had recorded a statement from the individual involved at the Sri Petaling police station to assist investigations.

A mobile phone and a SIM card were also seized as part of the investigation.

The case is being investigated under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which carries a maximum fine of RM500,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both, upon conviction.

MCMC said it viewed seriously the spread of online content suspected of containing false information or insults against the royal institution, particularly material that could undermine social harmony.

The commission also reminded the public to use social media responsibly and refrain from creating or sharing content that violates Malaysian laws.

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued an evening thunderstorm warning across large swathes of Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak until 8.00pm today, a day after torrential downpours triggered widespread flash floods across the Klang Valley.

The weather alert, released at 4.10pm, warns of severe thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and gusty winds, placing commuters and low-lying neighbourhoods on high alert following Monday’s evening travel chaos.

In the peninsula, the advisory blankets the entirety of Perlis and Kedah, alongside all three mainland districts of Penang: Seberang Perai Utara, Seberang Perai Tengah, and Seberang Perai Selatan. Perak faces widespread disruption spanning 12 districts, including Hulu Perak, Kuala Kangsar, Kinta, Kampar, Muallim, Batang Padang, Larut Matang, Selama, Kerian, Perak Tengah, Hilir Perak, and Bagan Datuk.

Across Selangor, the advisory covers Hulu Selangor, Sabak Bernam, and Kuala Selangor, alongside Petaling and Klang, two major urban districts where drainage systems were inundated during Monday’s deluge.

In the south, the alert spans Batu Pahat, Muar, Tangkak, and Kluang in Johor.

East coast states are similarly braced for stormy weather. Kelantan faces downpours across Kuala Krai, Jeli, Tanah Merah, Machang, Pasir Mas, Tumpat, Kota Bharu, Pasir Puteh, and Bachok. In Terengganu, the alert covers Besut, Hulu Terengganu, Setiu, and Dungun.

Across East Malaysia, the warning covers multiple divisions in Sarawak, including Lubok Antu in Sri Aman, Sarikei, Betong, Tanjung Manis in Mukah, Asajaya and Sebuyau in Samarahan, Marudi and Telang Usan in Miri, and Belaga in Kapit. In Sabah, the bulletin spans Ranau, Papar, Penampang, Tuaran, and Kota Kinabalu along the West Coast, alongside Tambunan, Membakut, Pensiangan, and Keningau in the Interior, Kalabakan in Tawau, and Tongod in Sandakan.

MetMalaysia issues thunderstorm advisories when satellite and radar indicators track rainfall intensity exceeding 20mm per hour that is either imminent or expected to persist beyond an hour. The department noted that these warnings serve as short-term alerts, valid for a maximum of six hours from issuance.

The alert follows Monday’s cloudburst that inundated arterial roads, submerged vehicles, and crippled the evening commute across the Klang Valley.

With ground saturation still high, authorities have urged motorists and residents in flood-prone zones to monitor real-time weather updates.

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 —The Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) has returned investigation papers concerning allegations that Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim was forced to sign an Instrument of Proclamation to the police for further action.

In a statement today, the AGC said it had reviewed the investigation papers submitted by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) on Oct 30 concerning the incident.

“An investigation was opened under Section 506 of the Penal Code after the Menteri Besar alleged that he had signed a proclamation concerning changes to the position of the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan under undue influence.

“Following a comprehensive review, it was found that several further steps must be undertaken by the investigating officer before any decision can be made.

“Accordingly, the investigation papers will be returned to the PDRM today for further action,” the AGC said.

Yesterday, Attorney-General Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar reportedly denied any delay by the AGC in reviewing investigation papers relating to a report involving Ismail. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — The success in staging the Petronas Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix (MotoGP) 2026 has not only strengthened the country’s reputation as a host of world-class motorsports events, but also serves as a catalyst for local economic activity, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

“The Petronas Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix (MotoGP) 2026 once again proves the country’s ability to organise world-class sporting events that not only attract motorsports fans but also bring benefits to the people and the local economy,” he said in a Facebook post today.

He said the determination and support of all parties were among the key factors that contributed to the successful staging of this year’s edition.

“Congratulations to all parties involved in making it a success. May this momentum continue to elevate Malaysia’s name on the world motorsports stage,” he added.

The three-day Malaysian MotoGP, held at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) from Oct 30-Nov 1, attracted about 196,000 visitors. — Bernama

MELAKA, Nov 3 (Bernama) -- Melaka’s previous experience of seeing chief ministers replaced within a short period should serve as a lesson to all political parties to ensure the stability of the state administration is maintained after the 16th Melaka State Election, according to former Chief Minister Adly Zahari.

The Melaka Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman said political and administrative stability in the state should be a priority for all parties, rather than focusing solely on who would lead the state government after the election.

Adly, who is also Deputy Defence Minister and PH candidate for the Bukit Katil seat, said political stability must be taken seriously by all parties as it is an important ingredient in ensuring a stable administration that can sustain policies and development agendas.

“The issue is stability, not who wants to lead and so on. I think there are many ways we can use after the election. Whoever leads, our commitment is to ensure political stability,” he told Bernama.

Adly said one possible approach was the implementation of a Confidence and Supply Agreement (CSA), similar to the one at the federal level, to ensure that the government has sufficient support to govern and pass the budget if it has only a slim majority.

Adly said an inclusive approach, including providing allocations to opposition state assemblymen, was among the measures he had implemented while serving as Chief Minister to ensure that all elected representatives could carry out their responsibilities to the community.

He said that when he led the state government, an allocation of RM60,000 was provided to each opposition state assemblyman to enable them to operate service centres and appoint staff to assist local residents.

He said the approach was important to ensure that elected representatives, regardless of whether they were from the government or opposition, had the means to serve the community while reducing political tensions.

Touching on his service in the Bukit Katil constituency, Adly said 231 of the 255 applications and complaints received from residents over the past two years had been resolved.

“Most involved infrastructure, drainage and drains. For schools, they requested speed bumps because vehicles were travelling too fast and endangering children on their way to school,” he said.

He said all applications received through various channels, including social media, the Information Department and elected representatives’ service centres, were recorded and forwarded to the relevant agencies for action and monitoring.

“Every time there is a meeting, I will look at the list of applications and ask whether they have been resolved. If they cannot be resolved, I will go down myself with the relevant agencies to see how the matter can be resolved,” he said.

Adly is facing a four-cornered contest against Perikatan Nasional candidate Muhammad Ridzuan Mohd Sarif, Parti Bersama Malaysia candidate Dr Aliza Che Amran and independent candidate Abu Bakar Sabudin.

The Election Commission has set Nov 14 as polling day, with early voting on Nov 10.

For the latest news on the 16th Melaka State Election, visit https://election.bernama.com/prn/melaka/2026/ — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — TM Nxera has said its data centre campus in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, is being developed on designated land with the necessary regulatory approvals, following media reports of residents’ concerns over power transmission infrastructure and data centre development in the area.

In a statement today, the company said the project complied with the conditions imposed by the relevant authorities.

“We take these concerns seriously. The TM Nxera campus is being developed on land designated for this purpose, with the requisite approvals from the relevant authorities, and in compliance with the conditions attached to them,” it said.

TM Nxera also said the campus had incorporated sustainability measures into its design and obtained provisional GreenRE Platinum certification.

The company clarified that it neither owned nor operated the power transmission infrastructure in the area.

However, it said it would continue working with relevant parties to help address concerns raised by the surrounding community.

“TM Nxera remains committed to supporting Malaysia’s digital economy, while being a responsible neighbour to the communities around us,” it added.

Earlier today Singapore’s The Straits Times reported that some homeowners in Iskandar Puteri were considering selling their properties over concerns about nearby data centre developments and high-voltage transmission towers, including a resident who put her RM1 million home in Eco Botanic up for sale following construction of TM Nxera’s 64-megawatt facility.

Residents in nearby Nusantara Prima and Nusa Bayu had also reportedly complained about construction dust, persistent humming noises and higher temperatures, which they believed were linked to data centre developments in the area.

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — A total of 12 cloud seeding operations were carried out in several parts of Peninsular Malaysia and Sarawak between Aug 30 and Oct 23 to mitigate the impact of transboundary haze on the country’s air quality.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) said the operations were conducted by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) and the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF).

It said the operations covered the northern, central and southern regions of Peninsular Malaysia, as well as Sarawak, during the transboundary haze episode.

“The operations successfully induced rainfall in several targeted areas, helping to raise water levels in dams and reduce the impact of transboundary haze,” it said in a written reply published on the Parliament website.

The ministry was replying to a question from Datuk Larry Soon (PBM-Julau) on measures taken by the government to address transboundary haze caused by open burning in neighbouring country.

NRES said the government had also activated various preparedness measures, including the National Open Burning Action Plan and the National Haze Action Plan, to prevent and mitigate the effects of haze.

It said checks conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities had so far found no official information or evidence linking any Malaysian-related plantation companies to forest or plantation fires in Indonesia.

“Nevertheless, the government takes any allegations involving Malaysian-related companies seriously, and any information or evidence presented must be examined in cooperation with the relevant authorities, in accordance with applicable laws and jurisdictions,” the ministry said. — Bernama

MELAKA, Nov 3 — Melaka Pakatan Harapan (PH) has unveiled its ‘Melaka Rumah Kita’ manifesto, outlining three main thrusts and 12 aspirations aimed at improving public welfare, expanding economic opportunities and promoting clean, transparent and efficient governance.

Its chairman, Adly Zahari, said the first thrust focused on transforming Melaka into a smart state to improve efficiency, security and quality of life.

“Under the second thrust, PH proposes allocating 30 per cent of local authority contracts to young men and women to provide employment, business opportunities and practical experience for local youths.

“Under the third thrust, PH aims to attract 25 million visitors to Melaka by 2032, positioning the state as a more competitive, internationally recognised destination,” he said at a daily press conference and the launch of the manifesto at the PH main operations centre in Bukit Piatu here today.

Also present were Melaka PH deputy chairman Khoo Poay Tiong and acting Melaka PKR state leadership council chairman Adam Adli Abd Halim.

Adly said the manifesto’s 12 aspirations included affordable housing, people-friendly governance, quality employment, women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship and public welfare, improving traffic flow, strengthening Islamic institutions and religious activities, developing idle land for economic opportunities, optimising state land use and preserving social unity and harmony.

He said the manifesto was developed based on feedback gathered through engagements with residents and traders, alongside PH’s experience in state and federal administration.

“With these three thrusts and 12 aspirations, this ‘Melaka Rumah Kita’ manifesto sets out our direction for a government that upholds public trust, creates income opportunities and ensures development improves people’s lives.

“We hope these aspirations will be discussed and considered by the public. We will also introduce additional areas of focus to fulfil our commitment to serving the people, particularly by helping ease their cost-of-living burden.

“PH also plans to organise a series of forums and programmes to explain each of the proposed aspirations to voters throughout the campaign for the state election,” he said.

Early voting for the election is scheduled for Nov 10, with polling day set for Nov 14.

For the latest news on the state polls, visit https://election.bernama.com/prn/melaka/2026/ — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — The Ministry of Human Resources (Kesuma) is ready to assist media personnel and journalists affected by job layoffs through various forms of aid, including the Employment Insurance System (EIS) under the Social Security Organisation (Perkeso).

The Deputy Human Resources Minister Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan said this while answering a question from Suhaizan Kaiat (PH-Pulai) regarding the allegation that between 100 and 200 Utusan Malaysia employees might lose their jobs due to management and financial problems believed to be faced by the media company.

He said that if the layoffs really happen, the ministry will apply and ask the involved companies to submit applications for assistance and review the eligibility of the affected workers under the EIS.

“EIS benefit applications can be made within 60 days from the date of job loss, provided that the specified contribution eligibility is met and relevant supporting documents are submitted,” he said during the oral question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat today.

He said the ministry also provided several other intervention measures to help affected workers.

“I have prepared six steps that we will take and I will share them with the Yang Berhormat Pulai so that we can together see what role the ministry will play,” he also said.

Yesterday it was reported that Media Mulia, the publisher of Utusan Malaysia and Kosmo, would be restructuring its business to align operations with the shift of the media industry towards digital, affecting around 100 employees and journalists from both newspapers. — Bernama

SEREMBAN, Nov 3 — Negeri Sembilan’s land revenue collection increased by RM60.36 million to RM404.04 million as at Sept 30, compared with RM343.68 million recorded in the corresponding period last year.

Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim said the collection represented 98.10 per cent of the RM411.86 million target set for this year.

He said the achievement was also supported by non-tax revenue, which recorded collections of RM256.29 million against a target of RM245.62 million, while tax revenue collection amounted to RM147.74 million against a target of RM166.24 million.

“For state land tax collection, the amount recorded as at Sept 30 this year was RM144.18 million, compared with RM143.64 million in the corresponding period last year, representing a surplus of RM534,975.93.

“The state government hopes that the implementation of the e-Tanah System, particularly through the introduction of the Revenue Module and online services, will help it achieve its target of collecting RM1 billion in state revenue by 2030,” he told reporters after officiating the kick-off ceremony for the development of the Negeri Sembilan e-Tanah System here today.

He said the e-Tanah project, which involves a cost of RM185.4 million, represents a major investment by the state government in its efforts to modernise land administration and improve the efficiency of service delivery to the public.

Meanwhile, Ismail said the system’s implementation would also place emphasis on the accuracy and integrity of land ownership data, including efforts to resolve issues involving overlapping land titles, inaccurate information, land tax calculation errors and cancelled ownership records that still remain in the system.

He said system and data security must also be prioritised to address risks of fraud, forged titles and data manipulation that could undermine the interests of the state government and landowners.

Ismail said the system was expected to facilitate transactions for licensed land surveyors and housing developers, particularly in submitting land development applications online. It would also enable senior officers to monitor file movements and application statuses in real time.

He said the implementation of e-Tanah was also in line with the introduction of the Sixteenth Schedule to the National Land Code, which allows electronic land titles to be issued without the need to print physical documents, thereby reducing reliance on physical document storage.

“To ensure the project progresses according to plan, the vendor has also been asked to provide a dedicated dashboard to enable the management of the state Director of Lands and Mines Office to monitor development progress, the achievement of each phase, and any issues or delays requiring immediate attention,” he said.

He said all promised features and functions must be fully implemented to ensure the investment delivers measurable results while meeting the needs of land administration and the expectations of the public. — Bernama

CYBERJAYA, Nov 3 — As of Nov 2, about 269,900 taxpayers submitted a total of 2.14 billion e-invoices, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.

Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said its implementation is not intended to introduce new taxes or increase the public’s tax burden.

On the contrary, e-invoices are an important instrument to uphold fairness, detect non-compliance and ensure that all parties fulfil their respective tax responsibilities, he said.

The use of the latest technology, data analytics and automation is important in strengthening tax administration. However, decisions must not be left entirely to technology without human consideration, particularly when people’s rights and interests are involved, he said.

“AI does not possess moral values or humanity. Technology has intelligence, but it cannot replace human wisdom, conscience and judgement,” he said in his speech at the 2026 Innovation and Integrity Day celebration today.

Anwar’s speech was delivered by Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan at the event organised by the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDN) today.

LHDN chief executive officer Datuk Dr Abu Tariq Jamaluddin and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar were also present.

Anwar said technological progress must always be guided by human values to ensure that its use benefits society.

He said it would be unfair if honest workers paid taxes from their earnings while those with greater financial resources concealed their income through multiple layers of business dealings and accounting tricks.

He therefore stressed that tax fairness required laws to be enforced equitably. LHDN officers must be firm against deliberate tax evasion while exercising discretion, within the framework of the law, towards taxpayers who require assistance and guidance, he said.

Anwar also said 2027 is expected to remain challenging amid global economic uncertainties.

“Prolonged conflicts in West Asia, supply disruptions and pressure on energy prices, and the risk of extreme weather conditions caused by the El Niño phenomenon could affect the cost of living and the well-being of the people.

“Therefore, the fifth Madani Budget 2027 mobilises RM510 billion in resources, including RM459.8 billion in federal government expenditure, to sustain development, strengthen economic resilience and safeguard the people’s welfare. Fair and effective revenue collection is essential to achieving these objectives,” he said.

Anwar also expressed his appreciation to all LHDN personnel for their contributions towards strengthening the country’s revenue position.

“Continue striving to master technology, improve efficiency and uphold integrity in carrying out every responsibility entrusted to you.

“However, amid technological advancements and revenue collection figures, never forget the people who form the foundation of every policy and action we take. Carry out your responsibilities not only with integrity, but also with compassion, wisdom and a deep appreciation of human values,” he stressed. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — The High Court today reportedly struck out a lawsuit by the family of the late former finance minister Tun Daim Zainuddin and two lawyers seeking to halt a police investigation into an alleged plot to overthrow the government.

According to Free Malaysia Today, Justice Indra Nehru Savandiah allowed the government’s application to strike out the suit after finding that it disclosed no reasonable cause of action.

The judge reportedly found insufficient evidence to support the plaintiffs’ claim that the police investigation, conducted under Section 124B of the Penal Code, was carried out in bad faith.

She also found that allegations that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s public remarks had influenced the investigation were speculative and unsupported by facts, the report said.

The plaintiffs were Daim’s widow, Toh Puan Na’imah Abdul Khalid, their sons Amir and Amin, and lawyers Amir Zharif Abdullah and Nizamuddin Hamid, who had named Anwar, Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail and the government as defendants.

The court reportedly made no order as to costs, while Indra said full grounds of judgment would be provided if an appeal was filed.

The plaintiffs were represented by Abraham Au and Gurdial Singh Nijar, while senior federal counsel Sallehuddin Ali and Solehheen Zaki appeared for the government, according to the report.

The investigation was launched following a police report lodged on February 26 alleging that an influential local figure had collaborated with international media organisations in an attempt to undermine the government.

Na’imah subsequently denied involvement in any attempt to overthrow the government, describing the allegations as false and claiming that the complainant was a disgruntled former employee.

On March 3, Anwar told Parliament that preliminary police investigations indicated that a group of Malaysians had worked with foreign parties to destabilise the government through international media and institutions.

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — The increasingly sophisticated methods used in drug smuggling require more advanced detection technology at the country’s entry points to ensure that syndicate activities do not escape the attention of the authorities, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

He said reliance on existing scanning machines at airports was no longer sufficient as the technology was developed to detect weapons and explosives, rather than prohibited substances such as drugs concealed using more complex methods.

In this regard, he said new analytical facilities were being put in place to enhance drug detection capabilities.

“The facilities currently available are based on old technology, while smuggling methods have become more sophisticated and, at times, drugs concealed on the body cannot be detected. That is true.

“That is why new analytical facilities are now being provided to detect drugs, in addition to the K9 (Detection Dog Unit). Sometimes, the presence of these dogs also poses an issue for some passengers. This new facility has been acquired, but for now, it is only available at KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport),” he said during the Ministers’ Question Time session in the Dewan Rakyat today. — Bernama

SUNGAI BULOH, Nov 3 —Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has ordered work on the Sungai Buloh and Sungai Damansara flood mitigation projects to be expedited following repeated flooding in the area.

He said the two projects, costing nearly RM700 million and already approved by the federal government, must proceed without delay to minimise the risk of further flooding.

"Our priority is to speed things up. I have instructed that work such as river dredging, for which contracts have already been awarded, be expedited.

"What concerns me is that this area has been flooded two or three times. We need to widen the rivers, build additional retention ponds and carry out comprehensive flood mitigation measures," he told reporters after visiting the flood relief centre at the Siantan hall in Kampung Melayu Subang here today.

Anwar said he would obtain a progress report on the federal government's flood mitigation projects this Friday, while Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari is expected to present an update on state-level projects at the State Executive Council meeting on the same day. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — The younger brother of Noorizwan Zulkefly has rejected police allegations that the family’s legal team intimidated a hospital forensic specialist, calling on authorities to halt investigations against their lawyers and keep public scrutiny fixed on his brother’s custodial death.

In a media statement released today, Nooranis Zulkefly insisted that he attended the briefing in person and observed the forensic medicine consultant presenting and explaining his brother’s post-mortem photographs without any coercion, hostility, or pressure from their legal representatives.

“My wife, the three lawyers and two police officers from Bukit Aman were all present at the meeting with the forensic specialist doctor.

“During the meeting, the doctor voluntarily showed and explained the late Noorizwan’s post-mortem photographs,” he said.

The denial follows a police report lodged by the doctor, a government medical officer, which prompted Bukit Aman’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to initiate a criminal probe against the family’s legal team under Sections 506, 186, and 189 of the Penal Code for criminal intimidation, obstructing a public servant, and threatening a public servant.

CID director Datuk M. Kumar confirmed yesterday that investigators had recorded statements from the medical specialist and three legal practitioners linked to the case, while scheduling interviews with Noorizwan’s surviving kin.

Nooranis identified the three lawyers named in the probe as rights advocates N. Surendran, Latheefa Koya, and Dina Zamri.

Recounting the hospital briefing, Nooranis said he attended the consultation alongside his wife, the three lawyers, and two Bukit Aman police officers. He characterised the entire session as cordial and professional, noting that the family exchanged handshakes and posed for a commemorative photograph with the doctor before leaving.

Expressing bewilderment that harassment allegations were aired publicly despite two federal police officers witnessing the entire exchange, Nooranis questioned what factual foundation Bukit Aman possessed to accuse the lawyers of intimidation.

The dispute unfolds as Bukit Aman’s Prosecution and Legal Division (D5) prepares to submit the core custodial death investigation papers to the Attorney-General’s Chambers on Wednesday.

Investigators reclassified the death under Section 331 of the Penal Code for voluntarily causing grievous hurt to extort a confession, following clinical findings from Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz indicating that multiple external injuries across Noorizwan’s body were consistent with non-accidental blunt-force trauma, though the final autopsy analysis remains pending.

Nooranis today issued three primary demands from the family, insisting on an immediate cessation of “undue harassment” directed at their lawyers, full recognition of their counsel’s right to test evidence through due process without state interference, and a transparent prosecution of any custodial personnel implicated in his brother’s death.

Questioning why state scrutiny was turned against lawyers advocating for a grieving family rather than resolving a fatal custodial breach, Nooranis cautioned authorities against pursuing “baseless” diversions, concluding with the rally cry: “Do not divert the issue, do not harass our lawyers, justice for Noorizwan must be upheld”.

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — Former Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin will submit a representation to drop a charge of uttering seditious words during the 2024 Nenggiri state by-election campaign.

The sedition charge concerns his alleged claim that the Yang di-Pertuan Agong at the time did not invite him to be sworn in as Prime Minister after the 15th General Election, despite purportedly having the support of 115 of 222 MPs.

His lawyer, Datuk Amer Hamzah Arshad, said the defence received a letter from the palace yesterday, after Muhyiddin was granted an audience by Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah.

“Without going into the details, Yang Arif, we wish to inform the court that our client was granted an audience by the palace on Oct 26. We have been made to understand that there are positive developments.

“Subsequently, yesterday, we were handed a letter from the palace. I will not go into the details, but based on that, Yang Arif, we would like to submit a fresh representation to the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC),” he said during proceedings before High Court Judge Datuk Aslam Zainuddin today.

“We do not wish to jeopardise whatever goodwill has been established by starting the trial, Yang Arif. So I think allow us this latitude, give us a bit of time. We will extend a copy of the letter directly to the AG for his consideration,” he added.

Deputy public prosecutor Azlina Rasdi did not object to the application.

The court then vacated all previously fixed trial dates and set Dec 3 for the parties to update the court on the representation.

On Aug 27, 2024, Muhyiddin, 79, who is also Bersatu president, was charged with uttering seditious words during the Nenggiri state by-election campaign at an open area near Dewan Semai Bakti Felda Perasu in Gua Musang, Kelantan, between 10.30 pm and 11.50 pm on Aug 14, 2024.

The charge was framed under Section 4(1)(b) of the Sedition Act 1948 and is punishable under Subsection 4(1) of the same Act, which carries a maximum fine of RM5,000 or imprisonment of up to three years, or both, upon conviction.

The case was first mentioned at the Gua Musang Sessions Court in Kelantan on Aug 27, 2024, before it was transferred to the Kuala Lumpur High Court for trial following an application by the defence. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today defended Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail amid the controversy surrounding the police investigation into Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain over alleged assault.

Addressing questions in Parliament, Anwar expressed personal sympathy for the Malaysian Checkpoints and Borders Agency chief but said the rule of law must take its course without executive interference.

He said it was wrong to blame Saifuddin for the controversy amid calls for the minister to intervene, emphasising that authorities were obligated to investigate complaints against any officer regardless of their track record.

“Even a former Inspector-General of Police back in ‘98 was imprisoned for assaulting someone. Did he have contributions? Yes, he had contributions,” Anwar said, adding that professionalism and adherence to the law remained paramount.

The prime minister explained that the investigation into Shuhaily was initiated following a formal police report and reiterated that the government would not interfere in investigative or prosecutorial procedures.

“If there are allegations or accusations that someone was mistreated, it follows a process. Do not ask me or the home minister to interfere to that extent. Only now, if it is found by the prosecutors and the Attorney General that there is a case, charges will be brought,” he said.

Shuhaily, a former Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director, was charged at the Sepang Sessions Court in October 2026 with two counts of voluntarily causing hurt to two police officers under Section 323 of the Penal Code.

The charges stemmed from an alleged physical altercation involving Special Branch personnel stationed at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 on September 28, an incident that drew public attention after video footage circulated online.

The case has also attracted expressions of public support for Shuhaily on social media, with some commenters alleging that he was being victimised by rival factions within the police force.

Anwar said established civil service procedures applied when a public servant was formally charged, which could include reassignment or suspension pending legal proceedings, with such matters overseen by the Home Ministry.

Rejecting attempts to frame the investigation as a political controversy, Anwar urged the public and lawmakers not to confuse personal sympathy with legal immunity.

“If you ask me, I know him, I sympathise, and I know his track record,” he said.

“But I cannot say that just because a person is good, they can assault an officer. I cannot say that someone can bypass due legal process. Anger is one thing, but this is what I want to emphasise because there are attempts to confuse the matter.”

JOHOR BAHRU, Nov 3 — A 19-year-old Singaporean man was among three individuals fined RM3,500 each under the newly amended law against illegal racing by the Magistrate’s Court here today.

The three, Syajahan Alfian Abdullah, 19; Muhammad Daniel Hakim Mohamad Rashid, 24; and Gonzales Mckhovic anak George, 18, pleaded guilty to engaging in illegal racing and riding their motorcycles in a dangerous manner on the Second Link Expressway last month.

They entered their guilty pleas after the charges were read out to them individually before Magistrate Nur Fatin Mohamad Farid.

The court also ordered all three to serve four months in prison if they failed to pay their fines.

According to the charge sheet, Singaporean national serviceman Syajahan Alfian was accused of riding a motorcycle at high speed and participating in a speed contest at Kilometre 12.5 of the southbound section of the Second Link Expressway at 2.10am on October 18.

He was charged under Section 42A(2) of the Road Transport Act 1987, as amended in 2026, which carries a fine of between RM2,000 and RM10,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both, upon conviction.

Meanwhile, Muhammad Daniel Hakim and Gonzales Mckhovic were each charged with racing their motorcycles on the northbound section of the Second Link Expressway between Kilometres 7.8 and 18.2 at 2.10am on October 18.

Both men were charged under Section 42A(1) of the same Act, which carries a fine of between RM2,000 and RM10,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.

The case was prosecuted by traffic police prosecuting officer Inspector S. Vikineswary, while all three accused were unrepresented.

The Road Transport (Amendment) Act 2026, which came into effect on October 16, introduced harsher penalties for illegal racing and reckless motorcycle riding through the inclusion of Section 42A.

The Transport Ministry said the amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) were intended to enhance road safety, strengthen enforcement and modernise service delivery by the Road Transport Department (JPJ).

The amendments also aim to close legal loopholes that could allow certain parties to evade responsibility for offences committed using their vehicles.

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — The Sessions Court today set trial dates between March and August next year for former human resources minister Datuk Seri M. Saravanan, who faces three corruption charges involving RM1.097 million over the approval of foreign worker quotas.

Sessions Court Judge Azrul Darus fixed March 4, April 12, May 24 to 27, Aug 17 to 19, and Aug 23 to 25 for the trial after both sides agreed on the dates, with Saravanan’s defence team pushing for the earliest possible trial.

Deputy public prosecutor Julaila Jamaludin informed the court that the prosecution had submitted 31 pages of documents to the defence this morning. Defence counsel Datuk Geethan Ram Vincent confirmed the matter.

“The prosecution has submitted all relevant documents pursuant to Section 51A of the Criminal Procedure Code (CPC), paving the way for the defence to file its defence statement in accordance with Section 62 of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Act 2009,” she said.

She added that the prosecution plans to call 25 witnesses. The court then ordered that the defence must file its statement of defence by Jan 15, 2027.

On Aug 28, Saravanan pleaded not guilty in the Sessions Court to three corruption charges involving RM1.097 million for the approval of foreign worker quotas.

On the first and second charges, Saravanan is alleged to have received RM150,000 and RM350,000 in cash, respectively, from Vectica Resources Sdn Bhd director Tan Teck Lim, 65, through Syed Amirul Syed Ahmad, 38, at Bukit Jalil Golf & Country Resorts and Jalan Telawi 3, Bangsar, on June 16 and July 7, 2022.

The payments were allegedly inducements and rewards for Saravanan, then Human Resources Minister, to approve TYKB Engineering Sdn Bhd’s application for 1,000 foreign worker quotas.

The third charge alleges that Saravanan received RM597,000 from the same individual for the same purpose, via a cheque deposited into Big Seven Ventures Sdn Bhd’s account at Maybank Islamic Berhad’s Old Klang Road branch in Taman Desa on July 7, 2022.

All three charges were framed under Section 16(a)(B) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Act 2009, which provides for a maximum jail term of 20 years and a fine of not less than five times the value of the gratification or RM10,000, whichever is higher, upon conviction. — Bernama

KOTA TINGGI, Nov 3 — A 35-year-old man was charged at the Pengerang Magistrate’s Court here today with the murder of an elderly settler at Felda Lok Heng Selatan last month.

The accused, Muhammad Iskandar Sentot, nodded to indicate that he understood the charge after it was read out before Magistrate Hidayatul Syuhada Shamsudin.

According to the charge sheet, Muhammad Iskandar allegedly murdered Mohd Ariff Md Yusoff, 68, in front of a house at Block 2, Jalan Bersatu, Felda Lok Heng Selatan, Pengerang, at 7.20pm on October 26.

He was charged under Section 302 of the Penal Code, which carries the death penalty or imprisonment of between 30 and 40 years and at least 12 strokes of the cane if the death penalty is not imposed.

The court did not grant bail and set January 7 next year for mention pending the submission of chemical, pathology, DNA, psychiatric and post-mortem reports.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Muhammad Nursyafiq Abd Halim prosecuted, while the accused was unrepresented.

It was previously reported that a man allegedly went on a rampage at the Felda settlement, hacking a settler to death with an axe before fleeing.

The victim was found covered in blood, with slash wounds to his head and both hands.

Police arrested the suspect at an oil palm plantation the following day and seized a motorcycle and an axe believed to have been used in the attack.

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim told the Dewan Rakyat today that Malaysia could be among countries vulnerable to sophisticated cyber attacks, pointing to recent high-profile breaches that have shaken Western nations.

Addressing the House this morning, the Tambun MP said the National Security Council (MKN) and security agencies have been closely monitoring severe digital disruptions abroad, such as portal shutdowns in Europe, critical registry breaches in Denmark, and systemic disruptions in the United States and Japan.

"Do not assume these threats are far removed from us," Anwar said during Prime Minister’s Question Time.

"We are informing the public, which is why the MKN advised yesterday that I make a statement today to remind the Honorable Members and the general public that we must not think this threat is far from us, because what is happening in Europe, America, and Japan has indeed shocked their respective nations."

Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar is scheduled to chair a meeting with all relevant departments this evening, while Bank Negara Malaysia will hold a special session with all financial institutions in the country, Anwar told the House.

Responding to a query from Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee (PN-Beluran) regarding intelligence reports on targeted threats, Anwar suggested Malaysia's rapid ascent as a regional digital hub places it in the crosshairs.

The Anwar administration is betting on the artificial intelligence boom to push the country into high-income status, rolling out billions of ringgit in tax incentives to draw investors.

Among companies that have poured money into Malaysia are tech and chip giants such as Google and Nvidia, which have committed an estimated RM20 billion to build digital infrastructure and data centres.

The prime minister said Malaysia's digital development could rival capabilities found in Europe, and that this had raised Malaysia's profile as a strategic asset and increased its exposure to advanced external digital risks.

Putrajaya is expected to hold a special closed-door national security briefing led by the MKN director-general for all MPs within the next couple of days, pending bipartisan agreement, Anwar told the House.

"I wish to emphasise that on behalf of the government, every single day, all agencies, ministers, and ministries are asked to continue carrying out their duties to ensure effective coordination and that the urban areas under their supervision are fully prepared, especially the security forces," he said.

"Because during that meeting (yesterday), I also received guarantees from the Chief of Defence Force and the Inspector-General of Police."

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli said he has been summoned to Bukit Aman today to give a statement over remarks concerning an alleged corporate mafia and a RM9.5 million payment linked to PKR vice-president Datuk Seri R. Ramanan.

In a Facebook statement yesterday, Rafizi said he had been instructed to appear at 10am for investigations under Sections 500 and 505 of the Penal Code, which concern criminal defamation and statements conducive to public mischief, respectively.

The Parti Bersama Malaysia (Bersama) leader said the investigation stemmed from a police report lodged on October 22 over a speech he delivered in Selayang two days earlier, during which he also discussed the court case involving former Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency director-general Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain.

“I respect that the investigating officers are carrying out their duties as directed,” he said, adding that he would cancel his campaign event in Melaka and return to Kuala Lumpur to give his statement.

Rafizi alleged that the PKR-led government was using the same legal provisions previously invoked against him to intimidate him whenever he raised allegations concerning the purported corporate mafia and Ramanan.

He compared the latest investigation with previous legal proceedings he faced after raising issues involving 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), Tabung Haji, Felda and the National Feedlot Corporation (NFC).

Rafizi claimed he had been acquitted in the cases he referred to, although he was previously convicted under the Official Secrets Act in a separate 1MDB-related case.

He also challenged Ramanan to take legal action against him if the minister wished to clear his name over the RM9.5 million bribery allegation, which Ramanan has denied.

Rafizi said he had initiated legal action against Ramanan over the dispute, having previously challenged him to pursue the matter in court.

He maintained that Bersama would continue raising concerns about the alleged corporate mafia despite the legal pressure.

“I believe time will show that we from BERSAMA have fulfilled our responsibility to help the community eradicate corporate mafia while other parties remain silent, even if forced to face such legal pressure,” he said.

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — Micromobility vehicles such as e-scooters remain strictly prohibited on all public roads for now, but findings from controlled sandbox trials will shape an upcoming comprehensive regulatory framework, the Transport Ministry told Parliament.

Responding to a Dewan Rakyat query from Kampar MP Chong Zhemin on whether controlled use would eventually be permitted along village routes and residential estates, the ministry acknowledged that micromobility devices offer practical solutions for “first and last mile” transit connections over short distances.

“However, their use must be implemented in a controlled manner, taking into account road conditions, traffic speeds, user safety and the suitability of infrastructure,” the ministry said.

Under the Road Traffic Rules (Prohibition of Use of Certain Micromobility Vehicles) 2021, mopeds, Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs), and Personal Mobility Aids (PMAs) face a blanket ban across public roads nationwide.

The statutory framework nevertheless empowers the Transport Minister to grant targeted exemptions for trial zones, primarily through the Micromobility Sandbox pilot programme.

The sandbox initiative currently operates across seven designated pilot areas, covering municipal jurisdictions under the Shah Alam, Subang Jaya, and Penang city councils and Kuala Lumpur City Hall, alongside university campuses at Universiti Malaya, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, and UiTM Perak.

The Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) has drawn up operational guidelines for these pilot runs, covering infrastructure design, rider safety, device roadworthiness, and fleet operator responsibilities.

Data gathered from the trials will evaluate how micromobility operates under real-world traffic dynamics to guide future legislation governing vehicle classification, mechanical safety standards, permitted corridors, and enforcement protocols.

“The approach also takes into account international practices and experiences, including those of China, Singapore and Japan, which regulate micromobility by setting vehicle categories, safety specifications, speed limits and usage rules according to the type of route and suitable areas.

“This is important to ensure the national micromobility ecosystem is developed in a phased, safe, controlled and evidence-based manner,” the ministry said.

On the infrastructure front, the ministry stressed that micromobility routes should ideally feature dedicated lanes physically separated from motorized traffic. Where road space is constrained, shared corridors could be considered, provided local councils install adequate traffic-calming features and enforce strict vehicle speed limits. Complementing these trials, urban planning agency PLANMalaysia has circulated route planning guidelines to state governments and local authorities to integrate micromobility paths into wider transit infrastructure.

However, the parliamentary reply provided no definitive timeline for legalising micromobility across housing estates or village roads, leaving speed limits and operational parameters for suburban residential neighbourhoods unaddressed.

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — The federal government has not dismissed the possibility of convening a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) into allegations of a “corporate mafia”, but maintains that this requires a demonstrated need and clearly defined terms of reference, the Home Ministry told the Dewan Rakyat.

The ministry said this in a written reply to Kota Melaka MP Khoo Poay Tiong, who pressed the government on the progress of police investigations, whether identified syndicate masterminds would face prosecution, and whether Putrajaya was prepared to establish an RCI to examine regulatory abuse.

“Regarding the proposal to establish a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI), the government is of the view that the matter should be considered based on the reasonableness of extending the investigation, including identifying the scope that truly needs to be examined.

“The government does not rule out the need for it if there is a clear basis and necessity for a more comprehensive inquiry, and solid factual details have been identified,” the ministry said.

The controversy centres on allegations that rogue elements within enforcement bodies abused their statutory authority to pressure corporate executives into selling company equity at artificially depressed valuations, enabling third-party syndicates to engineer hostile corporate takeovers.

To investigate the claims, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) initiated Op Viking through Bukit Aman's Anti-Money Laundering Crime Investigation Team, opening formal investigation papers on October 14, 2025, under Section 4(1) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001.

As of September 25, federal investigators had summoned and recorded statements from 70 individuals, while executing extensive asset freezes exceeding RM409 million.

The restrained holdings include 417 Central Depository System (CDS) accounts and 70 share-trading portfolios valued at roughly RM323.59 million, alongside 404 bank accounts holding RM85.62 million, eight real estate properties, and 11 vehicles.

However, the parliamentary reply stopped short of confirming whether any of the questioned individuals would face formal charges, omitting the identities of primary suspects and declining to provide a definitive timeline for concluding the probe.

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 2 — The government previously opted not to extradite preacher Dr Zakir Naik to India and has given no commitment to do so, the Home Ministry told the Dewan Rakyat, adding that it has received no new extradition request.

In a reply to Pengkalan Chepa MP Datuk Dr Ahmad Marzuk Shaary, who asked about the latest status of India’s request, the ministry said no fresh application has been received for the time being.

The ministry said India’s formal extradition request for Zakir was received on Jan 19, 2018. The government later received a diplomatic note from India on May 29, 2020, asking Malaysia to reconsider.

“The Government of Malaysia has decided not to extradite Dr Zakir Naik to India. Therefore, no commitment has been given to extradite him,” the ministry said.

The decision was based on Malaysia’s rights under Article 6 of the Extradition Treaty signed with India in 2010, as well as provisions of the Extradition Act 1992, the ministry said.

Marzuk had also asked whether the documents and evidence submitted by India met the requirements of the Extradition Act and the bilateral agreement. The reply did not address that point directly.

Dr Zakir has been evading Indian authorities since 2016, when files were opened against him for allegedly making hate speeches and laundering money after five militants launched an attack at a bakery in Dhaka, Bangladesh that ended with 29 dead.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs in June 2019 said the Indian government had made a formal request to Malaysia for Dr Zakir’s extradition and would continue to pursue the matter with Malaysia, while a court in India had also in June 2019 ordered Dr Zakir to show up there.

JOHOR BAHRU, Nov 3 — Johor’s rapid expansion of data centres has reportedly raised concerns among residents in Iskandar Puteri over noise, environmental conditions and the potential impact of nearby infrastructure on property values.

According to Singapore’s The Straits Times, some homeowners are considering selling their properties following the construction of data centres and high-voltage transmission towers near residential neighbourhoods.

Among them is finance manager Lee Shi Qing, 38, who reportedly put her RM1 million terraced house in Eco Botanic up for sale after construction began on a nearby 64-megawatt data centre by TM Nxera, a joint venture involving Telekom Malaysia and Singtel’s Nxera.

“I do have some concerns about living close to high-voltage lines, which is part of why I’m selling,” she told the Singapore newspaper.

Johor-based property consultant Samuel Tan reportedly warned that the presence of transmission towers could discourage potential buyers, even where scientific evidence does not establish a health risk.

The concerns come as Johor recorded 4,222 unsold completed homes and 9,946 unsold serviced apartments in the first half of 2026, the highest figures nationwide, according to the National Property Information Centre.

The state currently has 65 data centre projects at various stages of approval, while its operational IT capacity has reached 1,110MW, making it the Asia-Pacific region’s third-largest data centre market after Tokyo and Singapore, according to figures cited by The Straits Times.

Residents in Nusantara Prima and Nusa Bayu have also reportedly complained about construction dust, persistent humming noises and higher temperatures, which they believe are linked to nearby data centre developments.

Nusantara Prima kindergarten operator Mohanambal Rethinam told the newspaper that enrolment had fallen from 50 children in 2025 to 20 this year, with some parents expressing concerns about the surrounding environment.

Another resident, Nooraini Jaafar, 68, reportedly expressed concern that proximity to a data centre could make her terraced home harder to sell, despite its estimated value rising from RM400,000 in 2014 to RM600,000.

However, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia professor Mohd Fadhil Md Din cautioned against assuming that transmission lines posed a health risk to residents living hundreds of metres away.

“Where residences are genuinely 200m to 300m away, the scientific evidence would not support a blanket conclusion that residents are experiencing dangerous EMF exposure or that relocation is required on health grounds alone,” he told The Straits Times.

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — The government is finalising the draft Children (Amendment) Bill 2026 for submission to the Cabinet for consideration, said Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) M Kulasegaran.

He said the amendments aimed to improve Section 97 of the Child Act 2001 (Act 611) following the abolition of mandatory death sentences and life imprisonment in 2023 and seek to establish a more proportionate sentencing approach and eliminate indefinite imprisonment of juvenile offenders without a specified detention period.

Kulasegaran said that under the existing Subsection 97(2) of Act 611, the court must order a child offender to be detained in prison at the pleasure of the King or the State Ruler, as applicable under the relevant laws, without specifying a maximum detention period.

“The Madani Government is committed to improving this legal framework to ensure a clearer and more proportionate sentencing approach that takes into account the principles of justice for children as well as public safety,” he said when winding up the debate on the Supply (Budget) Bill 2027 at the committee stage for the Prime Minister’s Department in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday. 

He said a Special Committee to Review and Amend Section 97 of Act 611 had been established to examine proposed improvements to the provision, taking into account the principles of the best interests of the child, rehabilitation and reintegration, as well as international best practices.

Kulasegaran said the findings of the review had led to the Cabinet’s agreement on Sept 30 to four policy decisions concerning the proposed amendments to Section 97 of Act 611.

He said the proposed policy decisions were subsequently presented to the Conference of Rulers on Oct 14 for consideration and deliberation.

Meanwhile, on the proposal to establish a Law Drafting Unit in Parliament, Kulasegaran said the move was progressive and in line with efforts to strengthen the independence and autonomy of the country’s legislative institution.

“This matter merits consideration within the framework of implementing the Parliamentary Services Act 2025, subject to deliberation by the Parliamentary Service Council and the relevant staffing and legal requirements,” he said.

He said the establishment of the unit would enable Parliament to develop its own legislative drafting expertise, particularly to assist Members of Parliament in preparing Private Members’ Bills and proposed amendments to legislation without having to rely entirely on the drafting expertise of the Executive. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — Fourteen official visits and trade and investment missions led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani were carried out through the country’s trade and investment agencies from 2025 to September 2026.

Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) said the missions were undertaken through the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), generating potential investments of RM59.5 billion.

Of the total potential investments, RM14.2 billion have been approved, and the remaining RM45.3 billion are at various stages of negotiation and are being continuously followed up, Miti added.

“On the breakdown of realised investments, a project typically takes between 18 and 24 months to materialise, depending on its scale and complexity and prevailing economic conditions,” Miti said in a written Dewan Rakyat reply yesterday.

It added that MIDA would continue its follow-up efforts, monitoring and facilitation to ensure that identified investment opportunities are translated into actual project implementation.

On the trade front, Miti said official visits to countries including Kenya, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Türkiye, Japan, Italy, France, South Korea, China, Thailand, India and Russia had yielded positive results, generating RM6.77 billion in exports through high-level engagements.

“In addition, Matrade continues to diversify its export promotion efforts into new markets in Central Asia, Africa and Latin America. From January to September 2026, these three regions collectively recorded a 23.06 per cent rise in exports to RM69.84 billion,” Miti said.

It added that markets which recorded double-digit growth included Namibia (up 426.1 per cent), Angola (55.6 per cent), Brazil (41.0 per cent), Tanzania (35.9 per cent), Ethiopia (28.5 per cent) and Kenya (11.6 per cent). — Bernama

KYIV, Nov 3 — Ukraine said Monday that Russian strikes on a school distributing humanitarian aid killed at least 26 people, dashing fragile hopes of “progress toward peace” after a local ceasefire in the south expired without violations.

Russia resumed its strikes on the southern region of Kherson after the end of a ceasefire in the area, the longest truce in the war raging between the neighbours since Russia’s 2022 invasion, Kyiv said.

A rare pause in the fighting, brokered by US First Lady Melania Trump to enable a mission to the Russian-occupied city of Oleshky, ended Sunday after starting on Tuesday, with neither side reporting breaches.

But hours after the truce, Russia targeted a village in Zaporizhzhia, adjacent to Kherson, with repeated strikes that killed at least 26 people, the acting regional governor said.

Some of the dead had come to collect aid at a local school.

Footage posted by the Ukrainian emergency services showed the building reduced to piles of smouldering rubble and rescuers working at the site.

“Every Monday, humanitarian aid was distributed to people there,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in his daily address.

“The Russians carried out the first strike just as people arrived — several aerial bombs. Then, there was a repeat strike — more aerial bombs, this time targeting the shelter.”

Among those killed were “two rescue workers and four police officers”, acting regional governor Mykhailo Semikin said on Telegram.

The service named the rescuers as two 44-year-olds: Denys Konovalenko and Oleksy Sushchevsky.

“Every day, they went out to help people, working in dangerous conditions and risking their own lives to save others,” it said in a statement.

Zelensky said that after the Oleshky truce, “there was a moment when the next steps could have shown that progress toward peace was possible”.

“With these killings, Russia is sending an entirely opposite signal: Russia is counting on more killings. There must be a response to this.”

Russia fortifies positions 

The ceasefire last week enabled an evacuation of the Russian-occupied city of Oleshky.

It was the longest pause in fighting between the neighbours in the war, which is grinding through its fifth year after killing hundreds of thousands of people and displacing millions.

A senior Ukrainian figure told AFP on Sunday that Russia refused a Ukrainian offer to extend the truce.

Kyiv’s military also alleged that Moscow had used the pause in fighting to “fortify its positions”.

The Kremlin did not deny the accusations, with its spokesman Dmitry Peskov telling reporters Monday: “This is a completely normal practice in such situations.”

He alleged the Ukrainian army had also used pauses in fighting in the past to regroup.

Moscow saw the Oleshky humanitarian mission as “successful”, Peskov added, praising the “good cooperation between all sides” and singling out the role of its human rights commissioner Yana Lantratova.

Lantratova oversaw the ceasefire alongside her Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Lubinets in one of the most substantial instances of Russian-Ukrainian cooperation since the start of the war.

The mission saw people evacuated to both Ukraine-controlled territory and Moscow-annexed Crimea.

The Kremlin said that no other similar missions were being planned “at the moment”.

US-led talks between Russia and Ukraine are set to resume next week, US special envoy Steve Witkoff said Monday.

President Donald Trump has pushed for a settlement to the dragging war but there has been no breakthrough.

The talks — to be held November 10 and 11 in Abu Dhabi, Witkoff said — come as Kyiv and its European allies worry that Trump has increasingly sided with Moscow.

Cyberattacks 

Both Russia and Ukraine said overnight that their emergency warnings apps were hacked in apparent cyberattacks that came hours after the truce had ended.

Ukraine said it suspected its air raid alert system had been compromised, after false alerts of a radiation threat were sent to millions.

The warning system provides vital information about incoming Russian drones and missiles.

Russia has intensified its attacks this year, firing ballistic missiles and fast jet-powered drones, both of which are hard to intercept.

Moscow said that an app belonging to its emergency situations ministry that also warns of attacks had been hacked, too.

The app is not widely used in Russia, where warnings of Ukrainian drone attacks are not as common and typically sent by text message in border regions. — AFP 

TUMPAT, Nov 3 — The Southeast Brigade of the General Operations Force (GOF) recorded 1,493 cross-border crime cases between Jan 1 and Nov 1, with enforcement operations resulting in 1,733 arrests and seizures worth more than RM82.56 million.

Its commander Datuk Ahmad Radzi Hussain said the achievement demonstrated his personnel’s dedication and efficiency in carrying out enforcement duties aimed at safeguarding national security and sovereignty.

He said GOF had strengthened its intelligence capabilities and heightened personnel awareness of emerging threats, particularly the use of alternative routes and hidden locations by cross-border criminals seeking to evade detection.

“We cannot rely solely on conventional approaches or wait for threats to emerge before taking action. We must stay one step ahead by identifying changes in their patterns and modus operandi,” he told reporters after a handover of duties ceremony from the GOF 9th Battalion to the 7th Battalion for Ops Taring Wawasan Kelantan at the GOF Tactical Post in Pengkalan Kubor here yesterday. 

Ahmad Radzi said each battalion must conduct assessments of its operational areas, identify high-risk locations and regularly update intelligence information to ensure operations focusing on prevention and risk assessment were carried out effectively.

On efforts to tackle illegal immigration, he said GOF operations went beyond making arrests to uncovering syndicate networks, those facilitating illegal crossings and individuals shielding the migrants’ movements from detection.

He said tackling the issue required a comprehensive and sustained preventive approach, including identifying high-risk areas, those involved and their modus operandi to curb such activities.

“As of yesterday, a total of 921 undocumented migrants of various nationalities had been detained, comprising 802 in Kelantan, 104 in Pahang and 15 in Terengganu,” he said. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — Traffic congestion in Bukit Jalil, particularly during concerts and large-scale events, has prompted the government to explore smart city solutions while refining traffic management plans to improve traffic flow in the area.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh said Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Fadlun Mak Ujud had appointed consultants to conduct a Bukit Jalil micro-traffic management study, taking into account various issues raised by residents, including traffic congestion. The study is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.

She said the study was important as Bukit Jalil had unique characteristics as an event and concert hub that generated heavy traffic, requiring a specialised traffic management approach compared with other areas.

“We know there is congestion. Every weekend, whenever there is a concert, Bukit Jalil becomes extremely congested. Traffic builds up hours before the concert even begins. I acknowledge the problem,” she said when winding up the debate on the Supply (Budget) Bill 2027 at the committee stage for the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday. 

Hannah said the traffic management plan for Bukit Jalil was also expected to be completed by February 2027 and would be audited by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to ensure its implementation was effective on the ground and not merely a plan on paper.

As part of efforts to find long-term solutions, she said the Federal Territories Department would hold discussions with the Digital Ministry to explore opportunities to implement smart city solutions to help address congestion in the area.

In addition, Hannah said discussions were also being held with Prasarana Malaysia Bhd (Prasarana) to examine ways to improve public transport access to Bukit Jalil, including the possibility of establishing a bus transit hub in connection with the proposed Mass Rapid Transit 3 (MRT3) project.

On a related development, she said the development of Bandar Madani Bukit Jalil was subject to the provision of infrastructure beforehand or concurrently with the development to ensure that basic facilities could accommodate residents’ needs.

Hannah said four planning approvals had been granted, covering the overall layout development order, Madani Hub comprising a hall, food court and bus station, Residensi Madani homes priced below RM200,000 involving 4,218 units, and Sekolah Madani comprising preschool, primary and secondary schools as well as special education facilities.

“DBKL acts as the approving authority for this development. It will ensure that all development complies with the Kuala Lumpur Local Plan (PTKL) 2040, including population density requirements.

“The proposed development of Bandar Madani Bukit Jalil, with an estimated overall density of 1,048 people per acre, is in line with the affordable housing guidelines and PTKL 2040,” she said.

She said the Kuala Lumpur Mayor was monitoring the development to ensure that the necessary infrastructure was provided in tandem with the progress of the project before further planning approvals were granted for subsequent phases.

On pedestrian facilities, Hannah said DBKL would construct 22 kilometres (km) of pedestrian walkways in parliamentary constituencies across the capital, with an allocation of RM55 million, beginning in January 2027.

She said the project would involve the construction of two-kilometre walkways in each parliamentary constituency and was expected to be completed in the third quarter of next year.

“The construction of covered pedestrian walkways from 2023 to date has involved 29 locations, covering a total distance of 4.35 km. Currently, there are no pedestrian walkway projects under construction,” she said.

She added that DBKL was also planning an additional 20 km of covered pedestrian walkways in the city centre to connect public transport facilities with commercial centres, office complexes and recreational areas, including the Botanical Gardens and Titiwangsa Lake Gardens. — Bernama

MELAKA, Nov 3 — The Election Commission (EC) yesterday issued 8,569 postal ballot papers to eligible voters for the 16th Melaka State Election.

EC secretary Datuk Khairul Shahril Idrus said 8,041 of the postal ballot papers were issued to election officials, EC members and officers, police and military personnel, and media practitioners who had applied under Category 1A.

He said another 433 postal ballot papers were issued to Malaysians residing abroad under Category 1B, while 95 were issued under Category 1C to officials from agencies or organisations approved by the EC who were unable to vote on polling day due to official duties.

The postal ballot papers were issued in the presence of representatives of all contesting candidates, he said in a statement yesterday. 

Khairul Shahril reminded postal voters to mark their ballot papers and complete the Identity Declaration Form (Form 2) correctly before returning them to their respective constituency returning officers by 5 pm on polling day, Nov 14.

He also reminded voters to keep their votes confidential by not taking photographs of their postal ballot papers or sharing them on social media.

Polling day is set for Nov 14, while early voting will take place on Nov 10.

For the latest updates on the 16th Melaka state election, visit https://election.bernama.com/prn/melaka/2026/. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — Strong cooperation and a close working relationship between the Federal Government and the Sarawak government have delivered high-impact transport development projects in the state within a short period, says Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook.

He said close cross-party cooperation with his deputy, Datuk Hasbi Habibollah, has allowed several major commitments to be fulfilled for the people of Sarawak.

Key achievements include solid support in realising Sarawak’s own boutique airline, the handover of Bintulu Port Authority to the state government, the introduction of the BAS.MY public transport system in Kuching, the Miri Airport upgrading project, and the construction of a new Road Transport Department (JPJ) complex in Limbang.

“Over the past few years, since we teamed up at the Transport Ministry, Datuk Hasbi and I have worked together closely without any issues, despite coming from different political backgrounds.

“We have always maintained a very good working relationship, and as a result, we have been able to implement and resolve many matters,” he said in a video recording of his speech at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Limbang JPJ branch office on Oct 28, uploaded to his Facebook page yesterday. 

Touching on the establishment of Sarawak’s airline, Loke said the goal was achieved in less than three years through strategic cooperation between both sides.

“For Sarawak, we have jointly delivered on several major matters at the Transport Ministry. First, during this term alone, we helped realise the Sarawak government’s aspiration to have its own airline,” he said.

He explained that AirBorneo has commenced operations and taken over MASwings services, with all ATR aircraft now under AirBorneo, alongside plans to operate jet aircraft connecting Sarawak to various regional destinations.

Beyond aviation, Loke said the Federal Government also fulfilled demands under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) by returning port authority powers to the state.

On land transport, Loke said the ministry expanded the public transport network by providing direct funding to Sarawak, which the state had never received previously.

“At the departmental level, we started the BAS.MY service in Kuching, a key initiative by the Transport Ministry given that Sarawak never had a federally funded stage bus system before.

“Starting in Kuching, we hope to expand this service to other areas in the future. As for the JPJ, this is the only new building construction approved for this term, and we will assess needs in other locations after this,” he said.

Meanwhile, addressing connectivity in northern Sarawak, Loke said the expansion and upgrading of Miri Airport has been approved by the Ministry of Finance to cope with passenger overflow and spur economic growth in surrounding areas, including the Limbang Division.

“This project serves as an important gateway to Limbang, and I am confident its capacity can be increased. This will allow for more flights, bringing more visitors here, which is vital to stimulate development across Limbang,” he said. — Bernama

JOHOR BAHRU, Nov 3 — Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) has confirmed that a cargo train locomotive caught fire at Kilometer 4.75 along the Kempas Baru-Pasir Gudang route at about 1.10 pm yesterday. 

In a statement, KTMB said locomotive M1004 was hauling cargo train No. 193 from Port of Tanjung Pelepas to Pasir Gudang when the incident occurred.

The train driver immediately stopped the train after noticing the fire as a safety precaution.

“The fire was completely extinguished by the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) at 2.50 pm. No injuries were reported,” the statement said.

KTMB said safety measures were also put in place at the affected area before train movements were allowed to resume.

The locomotive was subsequently taken to the Kempas Baru Depot for technical inspection and damage assessment.

Further inspections will be conducted with Berapit Mobility and the Railway Assets Corporation (RAC) to determine the cause of the fire.

The locomotive is part of KTMB’s Rolling Stock Strategy (RSS), which involves 44 locomotives and 246 cargo wagons under a sale-and-leaseback arrangement to strengthen the country’s freight rail operations.

“Findings from the investigation will be reviewed to determine the necessary preventive and improvement measures. The public is advised against speculation, and further updates will be provided as they become available,” the statement said.

Meanwhile, the Johor JBPM Operations Centre said a Fire Rescue Tender carrying seven personnel from the Tebrau Fire and Rescue Station was dispatched to the scene after receiving an emergency call, adding that the fire caused about five per cent damage to the locomotive. — Bernama

ALOR SETAR, Nov 3 — The Kedah Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) arrested a policeman suspected of soliciting and receiving bribes totalling about RM15,000 from a drug trafficker two years ago.

A MACC source said yesterday that the suspect is believed to have accepted bribes as an inducement to protect drug trafficking activities and prevent law enforcement action in the state.

According to the source, the suspect in his 30s was detained around 2 pm yesterday when he arrived to give his statement at the Kedah MACC office.

“Initial investigations revealed that the suspect is believed to have committed the acts throughout 2024,” the source said.

The source added that the suspect is believed to have received monthly bribe payments between RM200 and RM2,500 via online bank transfers into his personal account.

Kedah MACC director Datuk Nazli Rasyid Sulong, when contacted, confirmed the arrest and said the case is being investigated under Section 16(a)(B) of the MACC Act 2009. — Bernama

IPOH, Nov 3 — Police arrested five Chinese nationals suspected of involvement in an investment scam syndicate during a raid on a house in Anjung Bercham Utama here last Friday.

Perak police chief Datuk Mohd Alwi Zainal Abidin said the suspects, all men aged between 26 and 43, were detained at about 6.30 pm after the department received information about the scam.

“Based on initial investigations and conversation scripts found on seized computers, police believe the syndicate ran a call centre operation to carry out non-existent online investment scams.

“The syndicate is believed to have been operating from the premises since September, targeting victims in Germany,” he said in a statement last night. 

He said the syndicate used WhatsApp and local internet access to carry out fraudulent activities, using profile pictures of attractive women to contact victims at random.

Mohd Alwi said victims were persuaded to join investment schemes claimed to be based in Germany that promised high returns. The victims were asked to make repeated payments.

He added police seized five computers, 10 mobile phones, and four routers, estimated to be worth about RM25,000.

He said all the suspects have been remanded for four days, starting last Saturday until tomorrow, to facilitate investigations under Section 420 and Section 120B of the Penal Code, as well as Section 6(1)© of the Immigration Act 1959/63. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — More than 500 houses have been affected by floods following heavy rain in several areas around Sungai Buloh, Selangor, particularly Kampung Melayu Subang, yesterday. 

Sungai Buloh MP, Datuk Seri R Ramanan said the affected residents had been evacuated to a temporary relief centre opened at Dewan Siantan in Kampung Melayu Subang.

“The centre will remain operational for as long as necessary to ensure that affected residents receive adequate shelter and assistance,” he posted on Facebook last night.

He said the Sungai Buloh Parliamentary Constituency Service Centre, together with volunteers, was working closely with the authorities and relevant agencies, particularly the Petaling District and Land Office, Shah Alam City Council and the Social Welfare Department.

Monitoring efforts were also being carried out with the Royal Malaysia Police, Fire and Rescue Department, Malaysian Civil Defence Force and Kampung Melayu Subang Village Development and Security Committee to ensure the safety and welfare of affected residents and address their basic needs, he added.

“I also urge all Sungai Buloh residents to remain vigilant about weather conditions, follow the authorities’ instructions and prioritise the safety of themselves and their families, particularly those living in flood-prone areas.

“Public safety is our priority. The Sungai Buloh Parliamentary Constituency Service Centre will continue to monitor the situation and work with all parties to ensure that no affected residents are left without the assistance they need.

“May everything go smoothly and may all residents remain safe,” he said. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — Some 10,036 patients in Malaysia are living with organ failure as of Oct 15, highlighting the need for comprehensive reforms to the country’s organ donation and transplant system to improve access to life-saving treatment.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad said the need was increasingly urgent as the deceased-donor rate was 1.33 per million population. 

He said the establishment of the National Transplant Council (MTK) was a strategic step towards strengthening governance and driving the national organ donation agenda through a whole-of-government approach, replacing the fragmented efforts of individual agencies.

“Through MTK, we are bringing together ministries and agencies to improve coordination. This includes emergency air transport through Mercy Flight, involving the Fire and Rescue Department and the Defence Ministry, as well as police Outrider escorts to minimise delays.

“We are also studying a proposal to include organ donor registration status on driving licences in collaboration with the Transport Ministry. This would be supported by sustainable funding from the Finance Ministry and clear religious guidance from the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM),” he said in a Facebook post.

Dzulkefly said he had chaired the first MTK meeting yesterday afternoon.

He said the reforms would bring three main benefits, including ensuring that organs were allocated more transparently and fairly based on medical priorities.

They would also give the public greater confidence in organ donation, with all procedures governed by the Human Tissues Act 1974 and relevant religious rulings.

“The integrated logistics network will also ensure that donated organs reach operating theatres as quickly as possible,” he said.

Dzulkefly said the Health Ministry would continue to strengthen public awareness campaigns through the “Warisku, Hormati Ikrarku” initiative to ensure donors’ wishes were respected, including by their family members.

He said respecting donors’ pledges and supporting patients awaiting transplants were a shared responsibility. — Bernama