KUCHING, Sept 19 — Air quality in Lubok Antu deteriorated as its Air Pollutant Index (API) rose to 178 by 8am on Saturday, from 106 at 10pm the previous day.

According to the Natural Resources and Environment Board’s API Status for Sarawak, Sri Aman, Lundu and Tebedu also recorded increases in API readings.

The API in Sri Aman, Lundu and Tebedu stood at 161, 157 and 119, respectively, by 8am. 

These were four points, 15 points and 10 points higher than their respective 10pm readings.

Air quality in Kapit and Kanowit improved slightly, with API readings declining to 126 and 186 by 8am from 153 and 200 at 10pm respectively.

The API reading in Serian also increased by one point to 168 by 8am.

Air quality monitoring stations that recorded slight declines in API readings were Kuching, from 170 at 10pm to 168 by 8am; Samarahan, from 165 to 163; Sibu, from 162 to 160; Sarikei, from 156 to 152; and Bintulu, from 157 to 151.

Air quality in Bario deteriorated as its API entered the ‘Moderate’ zone, rising to 60 by 8am from a ‘Good’ reading of 29 at 10pm.

Other locations that recorded ‘Moderate’ air quality were Samalaju, Miri, Industrial Training Institute (ILP) Miri, Limbang and Lawas.

Limbang was the only location in the ‘Moderate’ category to record an increase in API, rising from 59 to 64. Meanwhile, the API in Samalaju fell from 100 to 82, Miri from 87 to 80, ILP Miri from 70 to 65, and Lawas from 69 to 62.

The 8am API Status showed no latest data for Mukah, which recorded an ‘Unhealthy’ reading of 139 at 10pm.

The API reading in Betong remained unchanged at 168.

An API reading of 101 to 200 is classified as ‘Unhealthy’, while readings from 51 to 100 are categorised as ‘Moderate’, and 0 to 50 as ‘Good’. — The Borneo Post

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 19 — As of 9am today, 20 areas nationwide are recording unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings.

According to the Malaysian Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) portal, Kuching and IPD Serian in Sarawak recorded the highest reading at 169.

Six other areas in the state also registered unhealthy API levels: Samarahan (163), Sri Aman (162), Sibu (159), Sarikei (152), Bintulu (135) and Kapit (118).

Two areas in Perak logged unhealthy readings: Seri Manjung (164) and Tanjung Malim (113). 

Over in Selangor, the affected areas are Shah Alam (157), Petaling Jaya (139) and Johan Setia (113).

In addition, two areas in Kuala Lumpur registered unhealthy levels: Batu Muda (155) and Cheras (155), along with Putrajaya (154).

Unhealthy API readings were also recorded in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan (151); Larkin, Johor (139); Bukit Rambai, Melaka (111); and Tawau, Sabah (108).

Meanwhile, 37 areas recorded moderate readings, while another 10 areas registered good readings.

An API reading of zero to 50 indicates good air quality, 51 to 100 (moderate), 101 to 200 (unhealthy), 201 to 300 (very unhealthy) and 301 and above is hazardous. — Bernama

KANGAR, Sept 19 — Four men, including a civil servant, were arrested for allegedly staging the disappearance of a Toyota Vellfire to facilitate an insurance claim following financial problems faced by one of them.

Padang Besar police chief ACP Mohd Shokri Abdullah said the suspects, aged between 32 and 45, were arrested in raids at three locations in the Padang Besar and Arau districts at about 5.15pm Thursday.

He said the main suspect, a 42-year-old civil servant in Perlis, had travelled to Kuala Lumpur on July 16 to attend a course, using his wife’s black Toyota Vellfire.

“On July 17, at about 8am, the suspect lodged a police report claiming that the vehicle had gone missing in Sungai Besi,” he said in a statement yesterday.

Mohd Shokri said investigations found that the reported loss was believed to have been staged by the main suspect and his 45-year-old brother to facilitate an insurance claim.

The vehicle was believed to have been taken to a workshop in Kaki Bukit, Padang Besar to be dismantled, with valuable components collected for sale, he said.

He said two other men, both aged 32, were also believed to have assisted in the plan.

“All four suspects are currently detained to assist in the investigation and have been taken to the Cheras District Police Headquarters in Selangor for remand proceedings,” he said.

Mohd Shokri said the case was being investigated under Section 379A of the Penal Code for the theft of a motor vehicle or any of its component parts, which carries a jail term of between one and seven years and a fine upon conviction.

He said police viewed seriously any attempt to misuse police reports for personal gain or profit, as such actions compromised investigations and wasted enforcement resources. — Bernama

SUNGAI PETANI, Sept 19 — A 22-year-old man claimed he was robbed of RM30,000 in company funds by four men in an incident yesterday.

Kuala Muda District Police Chief ACP Hanyan Ramlan said preliminary investigations indicated that the incident occurred at about 4.30pm yesterday near the Sungai Petani Court Complex here.

“However, the victim only lodged a police report at the Sungai Petani Police Station at about 7am today.

“The victim claimed that he was approached by four men travelling in a car, before a struggle broke out between him and one of the suspects, who was armed with a folding knife,” he said in a statement today.

Hanyan said the victim told police that the suspect attempted to stab him during the struggle, but he managed to wrest the knife away before stabbing the attacker.

“The victim also claimed that the suspect’s accomplices struck him, causing him to fall to the ground, before the group fled with the company money kept in the car and one of his bank cards.

“The complainant only came forward to lodge a police report the following day, before the incident went viral on social media,” he said, adding that the case was being investigated under Sections 395/397 and 182 of the Penal Code.

Hanyan said further investigations were underway, and witnesses to the incident were urged to come forward to assist in the probe.

“The victim will also be sent to hospital for a medical examination after claiming to have sustained injuries in the incident,” he said. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 19 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on the people to play their part in addressing the increasingly worrying haze situation, while the government continues to seek solutions in the interest of all.

In a Facebook post, Anwar said he also performed special prayers (solat hajat) with members of the congregation after Friday prayers at Surau Nur Perdana, Precinct 10 in Putrajaya, yesterday, seeking Allah SWT’s help for the country to recover from the disaster soon.

The prime minister also urged the public to use energy wisely.

“I also want to urge all of us to manage our energy consumption as prudently as possible at this time so that each of us can play our part, while I, on behalf of the government, continue to work to safeguard and protect everyone,” he said.

Earlier, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan called on all mosques and surau nationwide to hold special prayers and offer supplications for Allah SWT’s protection from the haze affecting the country.

The call follows haze affecting several areas, with the public advised to take measures to reduce health risks arising from air pollution.

According to the Malaysian Air Pollutant Index Management System portal, 32 areas nationwide recorded unhealthy Air Pollutant Index readings as of 5pm today, with Sarawak recording the highest number of affected areas at eight, namely Kuching (174), Samarahan (167), Serian IPD (166), Sibu (162), Bintulu (161), Sarikei (155), Sri Aman (154) and Kapit (153). — Bernama

KUANTAN, Sept 19 — The Pahang State Enforcement Unit (UPNP) suspects that more than 7,000 hectares of the Tasik Bera Permanent Forest Reserve have been illegally cleared for commercial crops such as oil palm and rubber.

UPNP chief Saifullah Muhammad Ali said the matter was detected during integrated enforcement operations carried out in the area since Sept 14, involving 160 officers and personnel from UPNP, the Pahang State Forestry Department, the Pahang Department of Wildlife and National Parks, and the Bera District and Land Office.

“In addition, we also obtained security assistance from the Bera district police and the General Operations Force 7th Battalion,” he said.

Saifullah said UPNP also suspected that illegal syndicates from outside Pahang were manipulating the Orang Asli community to clear large tracts of land under the guise of customary land and roaming areas for the community.

He said some areas had only about six Orang Asli houses, yet the detected land clearing covered up to 404.68 hectares.

On Sept 15, police arrested five individuals for allegedly obstructing enforcement officers during an operation at the Tasek Bera Conservation Forest Reserve.

Bera police chief Supt Zulkiflee Nazir reportedly said the suspects, a man and four women aged between their 30s and 60s, were arrested to assist investigations under Section 186 of the Penal Code.

He said that while UPNP and several other agencies were conducting enforcement operations under the National Forestry Act 1984, a group of individuals was found setting up barricades and provoking enforcement officers carrying out their duties. — Bernama

* Editor’s note: UPNP is the Malay abbreviation of the Unit Penguatkuasaan Negeri Pahang.

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 19 — Indonesia looks forward to deepening its longstanding friendship and cooperation with Malaysia, building on nearly seven decades of diplomatic ties, said Indonesian Ambassador to Malaysia Raden Datuk Mohammad Iman Hascarya.

He said the two countries had built a close friendship and strong cooperation over the past 69 years, rooted in shared history, culture and kinship.

“We look forward to deepening this partnership and creating even more opportunities for both our countries and our peoples,” he said at a reception marking Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day here on Friday.

Minister of Higher Education Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir represented the Malaysian government at the event.

The ambassador also extended Indonesia’s warmest wishes to the Malaysian government and people in conjunction with Malaysia Day, which was celebrated earlier this week. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 19 — The decision to grant a conditional pardon to former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak should not be regarded as a decision by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim or Pakatan Harapan, PKR Wanita chief Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek said.

Fadhlina, who is also Education Minister, said the granting of a pardon is within the jurisdiction of the King as provided for under the Federal Constitution.

“We must be honest with the facts. The granting of a pardon is the prerogative of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong as provided for under the Federal Constitution. Wanita PKR respects the decision and upholds the institution of the Constitutional Monarchy.

“Political differences should not lead us to obscure the position of the Constitution or portray this decision as though it were a decision by the Prime Minister or Pakatan Harapan,” she said in a Facebook post yesterday.

Fadhlina said the conditional pardon granted to Najib would naturally elicit various reactions, acknowledging the disappointment and anger felt by some quarters.

She said the government nevertheless has a responsibility to provide an explanation to the people, stressing that respecting the decision to grant the pardon does not mean that PKR’s stance on corruption and abuse of power has changed.

“We should not pretend that these feelings do not exist. The people have the right to voice their views and seek an explanation. The government still has a responsibility to explain to the people,” she said.

Yesterday, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia granted a conditional pardon to Najib, allowing him to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest until Aug 23, 2028, subject to the payment of a RM50 million fine.

The Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department said the order was decided at the 64th Meeting of the Pardons Board for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya held at Istana Negara this morning. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 19 — The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) have been urged to conduct an immediate and thorough investigation into a performance video containing elements deemed insulting to the institution of the Malay Rulers, Malaysia and the Rukun Negara.

National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said appropriate action should be taken in the event of any violation of the law, with the investigation taking into consideration all relevant and applicable legal provisions, including the Penal Code, Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, Sedition Act 1948 and any other relevant laws.

He said such firm action is crucial to serve as a reminder that the freedom enjoyed by every citizen comes with the responsibility to respect the law, national institutions and social harmony.

“Rukun Negara is not merely a pledge recited at official functions. It is the national ideology and philosophy, and a guide in building a united nation.

“It was proclaimed on Aug 31, 1970, with the primary goal of forging strong unity among Malaysians,” he said in a statement shared on Facebook yesterday.

Earlier, a video posted on Instagram by ‘The Fever Kinetic Theatre’ went viral after it was found to contain elements deemed insulting to the institution of the Malay Rulers, Malaysia and the Rukun Negara.

Aaron also described the act in the performance as irresponsible, excessive and unacceptable.

He stressed that freedom of artistic expression and speech should not be used as an excuse to belittle national institutions, provoke or engage in actions that could potentially undermine social harmony.

“There is no room for any party to make light of matters concerning the institution of the Malay Rulers, national sovereignty and the foundations that shape life in our country.

“Malaysia is a country that practises Parliamentary Democracy and Constitutional Monarchy, with His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong as the Head of State,” he said.

In this regard, Aaron urged all parties, including artists, content creators and social media users, to exercise the freedom they have responsibly.

Meanwhile, in a separate post, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan said the performance video constituted a breach of proper conduct and a social wrongdoing that undermined the bonds of harmony in Malaysia’s multi-racial society.

He said the organisers should issue a public apology, while the authorities and relevant agencies must conduct a thorough investigation and take firm legal action without compromise against any party that insulted the foundations of the country.

“Artistic platforms should uplift the soul and unite the people, not divide them. Stop exploiting moral values for cheap popularity, and focus on building the nation based on truth, propriety, and strong moral and religious values,” he said. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — Pakatan Harapan (PH) today backed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s stance and the advice given by the Attorney General and Federal Territories Minister to the Pardons Board over former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s conditional royal pardon.

In a statement issued after the Pardons Board meeting earlier today, the PH Presidential Council said it firmly stood with the Prime Minister’s position and the advice given to the board.

“The Presidential Council also emphasised that no one is above the law,” it said.

PH said anyone found guilty must face punishment in accordance with the law as stipulated in the Federal Constitution.

Anwar earlier said the conditional royal pardon did not weaken the government’s resolve to fight corruption.

The council also reaffirmed its commitment to continuing efforts to eradicate corruption, advance the Reform agenda and rid the country of corruption and abuse.

“The Presidential Council is determined to continue efforts to eradicate corruption, promote the Reform agenda, and cleanse the country of elements of corruption and abuse,” it said.

Najib is serving a six-year prison sentence for his conviction over the misappropriation of RM42 million from SRC International Sdn Bhd, a former 1MDB subsidiary, after the Federal Court upheld his conviction in 2022.

His original 12-year sentence and RM210 million fine were halved to six years and RM50 million respectively after the Pardons Board reviewed his case in 2024.

Today, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, granted Najib a conditional pardon allowing him to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest until August 23, 2028, subject to payment of the RM50 million fine and compliance with the conditions imposed that have not been made public so far.

Umno subsequently launched a donation drive to help Najib settle the fine, while PAS welcomed the decision and MCA expressed gratitude to the King.

DAP said its central executive committee would meet tomorrow to determine its formal position.

SHAH ALAM, Sept 18 — The High Court today dismissed a RM1 million civil suit filed by a teenage girl with cerebral palsy and her parents against six defendants over an incident in which she fell after another pupil allegedly pulled away a chair at a school here in 2023.

Judicial Commissioner Datuk Anita Harun also ordered the plaintiffs to pay RM10,000 in costs, national news agency Bernama reported today.

In delivering her judgment, she ruled that the plaintiffs had failed to prove the negligence and causal link required between the alleged shortcomings in supervision and care and the injuries or additional suffering claimed.

On the allegation of negligent supervision, Anita said the first defendant had acknowledged that she was the only teacher present at the time and that her attention was divided between two groups of pupils with different needs.

However, she said the evidence did not establish that the supervision arrangement was unreasonable or that any reasonable precaution that had been overlooked could have prevented the fall.

“The first plaintiff herself acknowledged that it happened quickly, without any preceding argument. Negligent supervision, that the fall was caused by it, could not be proven,” she said, noting that at the time of the incident, the first plaintiff was enrolled in the Special Education Integrated Programme (PPKI) at a school in Shah Alam.

Anita said the decision did not negate the first plaintiff’s injuries or the burden borne by her family, but reflected the failure to prove the negligence and causal link required by law to establish liability.

Earlier, Federal Senior Counsel Afiq Nazrin Zaharinan, representing all six defendants, sought RM30,000 in costs, while the plaintiffs’ lawyer, Sofian Azmir, sought RM10,000, before the Judicial Commissioner ordered the plaintiffs to pay RM10,000 in costs to all six defendants.

The suit was filed by the teenager’s father, Wan Amey Shahril Wan Ab Rahman, 39, on behalf of himself, his wife and their daughter, against six defendants: three teachers, Ilyana Sari Ridzuan, Suhaida Abdul Rahman and Aizam Naim Mohd Junid; headmistress Hamidah Shamsudin; the Ministry of Education; and the Malaysian Government.

Meanwhile, after the proceedings, Sofian said they disagreed with the decision and would file an appeal soon.

“We disagree and believe there has been an error. We will file an appeal as soon as possible, as some arguments were not emphasised or stated by the judge.

“We want to emphasise that this case involves an individual with special needs and there should have been supervision,” he told reporters.

In August 2024, media reported that the teenage girl, who was then 12, had suffered for almost a year from complications arising from spinal injuries after she fell when a friend pulled away the chair she was about to sit on.

The incident occurred on October 12, 2023 and was revealed by her mother, Azera Yazid, 38, on TikTok, before the family took legal action to seek compensation for their daughter’s injuries and the suffering she endured. 

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — A businessman was sentenced to 14 months’ imprisonment and one stroke of the cane by the Sessions Court here today after pleading guilty to cheating a company director over a project to supply automated external defibrillator (AED) units.

Judge Azrul Darus ordered Datuk Seri Azraie Jamaludin, 49, to serve the sentence from today.

Azraie, together with another person still at large, was charged with deceiving Lim Wei Xiang, 35, into believing that he had the capacity to secure an AED supply project, which prompted Lim to deposit RM361,150 into the ZAJ Empire Resource bank account belonging to the accused.

The offence was committed at a golf club here between Aug 12 and Oct 22, 2024, under Section 420 of the Penal Code, which provides for imprisonment of between one and 10 years, whipping and a fine, upon conviction.

According to the facts of the case, the complainant was introduced to the accused by an acquaintance who told him that Azraie had connections with several government agencies and was able to secure a RM5 million project to supply AED units for the Health Ministry.

Convinced by the offer, the complainant subsequently handed over the money by depositing it into the accused’s bank account.

Earlier, Deputy Public Prosecutor Muhammad Zul Hilmi Latif sought an appropriate sentence as a deterrent, taking into consideration the victim’s losses.

Azraie, who was unrepresented, appealed for a lenient sentence, saying that he was supporting his family and suffered from a heart condition requiring follow-up treatment. — Bernama

MELAKA, Sept 19 — The Public Higher Education Institution (IPTA) Wi-Fi project, covering 539 locations nationwide, is expected to be fully completed by September, with 55 per cent, or 294 locations, already having access to Wi-Fi, Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said.

She said the RM664 million project, fully funded by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) through the Universal Service Provision initiative, would help upgrade infrastructure and improve internet coverage across campuses.

“We have embarked on a project to install tens of thousands of access points equipped with high-end Wi-Fi technology, specifically Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7.

“This project focuses on strategic locations across campuses, including lecture halls, laboratories, libraries, student centres, residential colleges and hostels,” she told reporters after visiting the IPTA Wi-Fi Project Phase 3 site at Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM) here today.

She said the project covers 539 locations, involving IPTA and skills training institutions under Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara) and the Ministry of Human Resources (Kesuma).

Teo said Phases 1 and 2 of the project had been completed at 191 locations, with Phase 3 implementation now underway at institutions under Mara and Kesuma.

“For Phase 3 of the project, work has been completed at 42 of the 204 locations, or 21 per cent, while the remaining locations are still undergoing network provisioning and installation.

“As for institutions under Mara, work has been completed at 60 of the 110 identified locations, or 55 per cent, while for those under Kesuma, work has been completed at one of the 34 identified locations,” she said.

Commenting on the project’s implementation in Melaka, Teo said the IPTA Wi-Fi project in the state had reached 44 per cent completion, with 1,399 new access points activated at 10 IPTA as of last August.

She said UTeM had made good progress under Phase 3, with 302 additional access points installed on Aug 27, ahead of the MCMC’s original target date of Sept 23.

“Under Phase 3, 302 additional APs were installed here at UTeM, with the work completed on Aug 27, ahead of the MCMC’s original target date of Sept 23.

“In total, UTeM now has 410 operational APs, including the 108 APs installed under Phase 2 in June 2025,” she said.

Meanwhile, UTeM student representative Muhammad Quwayyis Khairuddin, 21, said the installation of additional high-speed Wi-Fi APs was crucial, particularly for students living in residential colleges and those using other strategic locations across the university campus.

“This is a meaningful contribution from the Ministry of Communications, as every student here needs reliable internet access to complete projects and assignments.

“Although the internet service was already good, the addition of these APs has further improved internet connectivity across the campus,” he said. — Bernama

* Editor’s note: IPTA stands for Institusi Pengajian Tinggi Awam, the Malay name for Public Higher Education Institutions. 

MELAKA, Sept 18 — The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will continue monitoring social media content ahead of the Melaka state election and reminds internet users not to touch on 3R issues involving religion, race and royalty.

Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said the monitoring was part of MCMC’s role as the regulator of the communications and multimedia sector, with the commission also working with other enforcement agencies when necessary.

“MCMC, as the regulator, we will always monitor social media content. Our message to all internet users is not to touch on 3R issues.

“We all have the right to campaign, but campaign democratically and do not touch on sensitive issues that could affect harmony in society,” she told reporters after a working visit to inspect the progress of the Public Higher Education Institution Wi-Fi project at Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM) here today.

Her remarks come as preparations for the state election gather pace, although the date for dissolving the Melaka State Legislative Assembly has yet to be fixed.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh was reported yesterday as saying that several state administrative matters needed to be resolved before the assembly could be dissolved, to ensure the relevant plans proceeded smoothly.

Ab Rauf, who is also Melaka Barisan Nasional chairman, said the state assembly must be dissolved by the end of December, when its current term expires. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — Umno’s Najib Razak Solidarity Fund raised RM165,645 within its first hour of being launched today to help former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak pay the RM50 million fine required under his conditional royal pardon, party secretary-general Datuk Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said.

Asyraf announced the amount in a comment on his social media post, thanking contributors and urging party members and supporters to continue donating to the fund.

“Alhamdulillah, within an hour of its launch, the Najib Razak Solidarity Fund has already reached RM165,645,” he wrote.

The fundraising drive was launched after Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced today that the party would collect donations to help Najib pay the RM50 million fine.

Earlier today, the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department announced that His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia had consented to grant Najib a conditional pardon, allowing him to serve the remainder of his custodial sentence under house arrest until August 23, 2028, subject to payment of the RM50 million fine and compliance with the conditions imposed.

The decision was made during the 64th meeting of the Pardons Board for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya at Istana Negara this morning.

Najib was convicted in 2020 in the SRC International corruption case, one of several high-profile trials linked to the 1MDB scandal. 

He began serving his sentence at Kajang Prison in August 2022 after the Federal Court dismissed his final appeal.

His original 12-year jail term was subsequently halved to six years and his initial RM210 million fine reduced to RM50 million following an earlier review by the Pardons Board in early 2024.

He began to serve his sentence at Kajang Prison in August 2022 after the Federal Court dismissed his final appeal.

His original 12-year jail term was subsequently halved to six years and his initial RM210 million fine reduced to RM50 million following an earlier review by the Pardons Board in early 2024.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the pardon did not weaken the government’s resolve to fight corruption, stressing that ongoing corruption cases involving Najib must continue according to law.

MCA, meanwhile, welcomed the conditional pardon and said respecting the Pardons Board’s decision did not negate Najib’s conviction or the courts’ verdicts. 

DAP said it would hold an emergency Central Executive Committee meeting tomorrow to decide its formal position, while stressing that Najib’s 1MDB conviction and the financial burden on taxpayers must not be forgotten. 

PETALING JAYA, Sept 18 — The Selangor state government is considering distributing free reusable cloth face masks to school students as the haze is expected to persist until October.

Selangor Public Health and Environment Committee chairman Jamaliah Jamaluddin said the matter was currently being discussed by the State Executive Council (MMKN) for implementation as a one-off initiative, with distribution to be carried out in stages.

“One of the proposals is to implement a one-off programme to distribute washable and reusable cloth face masks,” she said at the launch of the Support Partner Hub and Belia Sehat Hotline here today.

Jamaliah said air quality was expected to improve over the next few days, with Air Pollutant Index (API) readings at moderate or good levels compared with last week.

Six areas in Selangor recorded unhealthy API readings this morning, with Johan Setia registering the highest reading at 196, followed by Shah Alam (171), Banting (166), Petaling Jaya (163), Klang (160) and Kuala Selangor (143). — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — The decision allowing former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak to serve the remainder of his prison sentence under house arrest does not bring an end to the other criminal and civil cases involving him.

The house-arrest arrangement concerns his six-year sentence in the SRC International Sdn Bhd case, involving the misappropriation of RM42 million. His sentence is scheduled to end on August 23, 2028.

However, Najib is still facing other legal proceedings, including his appeal against his conviction and 15-year prison sentence in the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) case.

On December 26, 2025, the High Court convicted Najib on 25 charges involving abuse of his position to obtain about RM2.3 billion and money laundering offences linked to 1MDB.

The court sentenced him to 15 years in prison and imposed a RM11.4 billion fine. The court ordered that the 15-year sentence would commence after Najib completes his sentence in the SRC International case.

Najib filed an appeal against the conviction and sentence on December 29, 2025.

Members of the media gather outside former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s residence following the announcement of his conditional pardon in Kuala Lumpur on September 18, 2026. — Picture by Firdaus Latif

Meanwhile, in a separate civil case, the Kuala Lumpur High Court on March 31, 2026, found Najib liable for losses suffered by SRC International amounting to approximately US$1.3 billion.

The court found that Najib had breached his fiduciary duties, abused his position and misappropriated company funds for personal purposes.

The court allowed SRC International's claim for US$1.18 billion and ordered Najib to pay the amount, in addition to US$120 million which he had received from the company, bringing the total to approximately US$1.3 billion.

SRC International filed the civil suit in May 2021, initially naming Najib and six former directors as defendants.

The company subsequently removed the six former directors from the suit, leaving Najib and former SRC chief executive officer Nik Faisal Ariff Kamil as defendants.

A judgment in default was entered against Nik Faisal in 2021, leaving Najib as the sole defendant in the proceedings. Najib has also faced other criminal proceedings relating to SRC International and 1MDB.

Meanwhile, on June 20, 2025, the High Court discharged and acquitted him of three money laundering charges involving RM27 million belonging to SRC International.

The acquittals of Najib and former 1MDB chief executive officer Arul Kanda Kandasamy in the 1MDB audit tampering case stand after the Court of Appeal on September 12, 2023 struck out the two notices of appeal filed by the prosecution.

This followed the prosecution’s failure to file its petition of appeal within the stipulated time and to apply for an extension of time to file the petition.

The official vehicle of Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh leaves Istana Negara at about 9.40am in Kuala Lumpur on September 18, 2026.

In another case involving six charges of criminal breach of trust over RM6.6 billion in payments to International Petroleum Investment Company (IPIC), Najib and former Treasury secretary-general Tan Sri Mohd Irwan Serigar Abdullah were also discharged and acquitted.

Separately, 1MDB has filed a civil suit amounting to approximately US$5.64 billion against Najib and six other individuals. The trial before Judicial Commissioner Mohamad Redzuan Idrus is scheduled to continue on March 15 next year.

The suit alleges, among other matters, breach of fiduciary and statutory duties, abuse of power, conspiracy and misappropriation of 1MDB funds.

Najib is also facing a RM42 million civil suit filed against him by SRC and its subsidiary, Gandingan Mentari Sdn Bhd. The case was concluded on March 16 this year, and the parties are now making their oral submissions before Justice Datuk Raja Ahmad Mohzanuddin Shah Raja Mohzan.

Meanwhile, in bankruptcy proceedings involving Najib and his son, Datuk Mohd Nazifuddin, the Court of Appeal on September 4 this year granted a stay of the proceedings against them.

The stay was granted pending the disposal of their appeals before the Special Commissioners of Income Tax (SCIT) over additional tax assessments issued by the Inland Revenue Board (IRB).

The bankruptcy proceedings stemmed from separate High Court decisions granting the IRB summary judgments against the father and son over unpaid tax arrears for the 2011 to 2017 assessment years.

The IRB is seeking to recover RM1.69 billion from Najib and RM37.6 million from Mohd Nazifuddin.

Both Najib and Mohd Nazifuddin failed in their appeals before the Court of Appeal and Federal Court to set aside the summary judgments. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — Around 10 supporters gathered outside former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s private residence in Jalan Langgak Duta this afternoon, following news that he had been granted a conditional royal pardon allowing him to serve the remainder of his custodial sentence under house arrest.

The group arrived clad mostly in red, with one supporter wearing a red T-shirt featuring Najib’s portrait making a shushing gesture.

The gathering coincided with a heavy media stakeout along the quiet residential street, with reporters and camera crews waiting outside the gates for Najib’s potential arrival from Kajang Prison.

Earlier today, the Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) of the Prime Minister’s Department announced that His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, consented to grant Najib a conditional pardon, permitting him to serve out the rest of his term under home arrest until August 23, 2028, conditional upon the full settlement of an RM50 million fine.

The decision was finalised during the 64th meeting of the Pardons Board for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya at Istana Negara this morning.

Najib was convicted in 2020 in the SRC International corruption case, a key trial linked to the wider 1MDB financial scandal. He began serving his initial 12-year jail sentence at Kajang Prison in August 2022 after the Federal Court dismissed his final appeal.

His sentence was subsequently halved to six years and his original RM210 million fine reduced to RM50 million following an earlier review by the Federal Territories Pardons Board in early 2024.

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — A former gold shop supervisor who pawned three gold bars to trade in cryptocurrency was sentenced to 16 months' jail and three strokes of the cane by the Sessions Court today for criminal breach of trust.

He is also set to be sentenced on a separate criminal breach of trust charge over a pawned gold chain in another Sessions Court.

Judge Azrul Darus handed Koh Mun Hoe, 33, 16 months' jail and one stroke of the cane for each charge, ordering the sentences to run concurrently from today.

The charges state that Koh, entrusted with three 999 gold bars weighing 50 grammes and 100 grammes, all worth RM176,200, pawned them at a pawnshop for his personal use.

The offences took place at a gold shop in a shopping centre in Cheras between 10.42am and 1.36pm, from June 4 to June 8.

He was charged under Section 408 of the Penal Code, which carries a jail term of between one and 14 years, along with caning and a fine, upon conviction.

Based on the facts of the case, the complainant, a human resources manager at the premises, inspected the safe's stock and found three gold bars missing.

CCTV footage showed the accused taking the items without the employer's consent, slipping them into a vest pocket and carrying them out of the premises.

Investigations also found that the accused pawned all three gold bars and used the money to trade in cryptocurrency through the Huobi app, a venture that ended in losses.

Earlier, Deputy Public Prosecutor Muhammad Zul Hilmi Latif sought a sentence befitting the offence to serve as a lesson, noting that Koh had no prior record.

Koh, who was unrepresented, pleaded for leniency, citing two children aged three and six, a recent divorce, and the need to care for his parents.

In a separate Sessions Court before Judge Dr Azrol Abdullah, Koh pleaded guilty to a fourth charge of criminal breach of trust for pawning a 999 gold chain weighing 80 grammes, valued at RM57,840.82.

The offence was allegedly committed at the same gold shop at 11.32am on June 12.

He was charged under Section 408 of the Penal Code, which carries a prison term of between one and 14 years, along with caning and a fine, upon conviction.

The court fixed September 22 for sentencing. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — MCA has expressed its gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, for granting a conditional royal pardon to former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

In a statement today, MCA president Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong said that honouring the Pardons Board’s decision does not negate the courts' earlier conviction of Najib, just as respecting judicial verdicts does not diminish the King’s constitutional prerogative to grant clemency.

Both avenues, he noted, represent fundamental components of Malaysia’s constitutional architecture.

“MCA expresses our utmost gratitude for the royal assent granted by His Majesty, Sultan Ibrahim, regarding the conditional pardon of Former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak,” Wee said.

Wee affirmed that MCA will continue to champion the Supremacy of the Constitution and the Rule of Law as enshrined in the Rukun Negara, while upholding the constitutional monarchy as a vital pillar of the federation.

He added that the party remains resolute that national institutions must be honoured, the law upheld, and institutional integrity safeguarded.

The statement follows an announcement by the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister's Department confirming that Sultan Ibrahim consented to grant Najib a conditional pardon.

The decree allows the former premier to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest until Aug 23, 2028, subject to settling a RM50 million fine, following the 64th meeting of the Federal Territories Pardons Board at Istana Negara.

Earlier, DAP announced an emergency Central Executive Committee (CEC) meeting for tomorrow to deliberate its formal position.

DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke previously underlined the immense financial legacy of the 1MDB scandal, citing Finance Ministry data showing RM51.4 billion in state-borne liabilities, while insisting that judicial findings on corruption must never be sidelined.

Speaking after Friday prayers in Putrajaya, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reiterated that the royal clemency does not dilute the government’s determination to eradicate corruption, noting that while his role was to advise on legal parameters and national stability, final discretion rests exclusively with the King.

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — DAP will convene an emergency central executive committee (CEC) meeting tomorrow to decide its formal position in response to the conditional pardon granted to former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, party secretary-general Anthony Loke announced today.

The announcement came hours after the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department confirmed that His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, consented to grant Najib a conditional pardon, allowing him to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest until Aug 23, 2028, subject to a RM50 million fine.

“This scandal has associated Malaysia's name with kleptocracy in the eyes of the world, tarnishing the country's image and eroding public and investor confidence in the nation's administrative institutions,” Loke said of the 1MDB scandal.

“The conviction of Datuk Seri Najib Razak in the case involving 1MDB is an offence that has been decided by the courts, and its impact on the country cannot be forgotten.”

Loke noted that the long-term financial fallout remains severe, citing recent Finance Ministry data indicating that 1MDB obligations have saddled taxpayers with RM51.4 billion in liabilities, comprising RM42.5 billion already settled and RM8.9 billion in outstanding debt.

He reiterated DAP’s longstanding stance demanding accountability for the scandal, recalling that public outrage over 1MDB was the decisive catalyst behind the historic change of government in the 2018 general election.

Defending Federal Territories Minister Hannah Yeoh’s role on the Pardons Board, Loke said that she had consistently articulated the party’s core principles and discharged her constitutional duties candidly in the national interest.

“At the same time, DAP respects the pardoning power of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong as provided for under the Federal Constitution.

“DAP has always upheld the principles of constitutional monarchy and the sanctity of the constitution, alongside defending the rule of law and the fight against corruption,” he added.

Earlier today, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim maintained that the pardon does not dilute the government’s resolve to combat graft and power abuse.

Anwar stressed that all existing corruption investigations and ongoing court proceedings involving Najib must continue without compromise under the law.

KUALA PILAH, Sept 18 — Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir today received a memorandum expressing loyalty and support for him after performing Friday prayers at the Tuanku Munawir Royal Mosque here.

Tuanku Muhriz was accompanied by his sons, Tunku Besar of Seri Menanti Tunku Ali Redhauddin and Tunku Panglima Besar Tunku Zain Al-’Abidin.

Also present were Undang of Sungei Ujong Datuk Klana Petra Muhammad Faris Johari and Undang of Rembau Datuk Sedia Raja Hassan Ab Hamid, who joined more than 500 congregants for prayers led by the mosque’s executive imam, Abdul Rahman Ibrahim.

After the prayers, Tuanku Muhriz received the memorandum from Dr Mohd Aluwi Sari, head of the Secretariat for Loyalty and Support for the 11th Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan.

His Royal Highness also spent time with worshippers at the mosque.

“Thank you, everyone,” he said.

Mohd Aluwi said the memorandum affirmed the secretariat’s commitment to upholding the royal institution and Constitution, preserving Adat Perpatih, respecting the rule of law and safeguarding peace and harmony in the state.

“If there is any content that challenges or undermines the position of the royal institution, we ask that it be professionally investigated and appropriate action taken,” he said.

He also urged all political parties and leaders to respect the jurisdiction of the royal institution and Negeri Sembilan’s *adat* (customary) structure.

The Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) said yesterday that an April 19 proclamation concerning Tuanku Muhriz’s position was invalid because it failed to comply with the mandatory requirements of Article 10 of the Laws of the Constitution of Negeri Sembilan 1959.

The AGC also said the Menteri Besar and Negeri Sembilan State Executive Council did not have unilateral authority to depose the Yang Dipertuan Besar or declare the position vacant.

Meanwhile, the Negeri Sembilan Dewan Keadilan dan Undang (DKU) has reiterated that Tuanku Muhriz remains the lawful Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan and chairman of the council. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — PAS today thanked His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, for granting former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak a conditional pardon, saying he could still contribute his ideas and experience to the country.

PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan said the party was grateful for the King’s decision allowing Najib to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest until August 23, 2028, subject to the payment of a RM50 million fine.

“This development is deeply meaningful not only to Datuk Seri Najib’s family, but also to Malaysians who continue to remember and appreciate his contributions and service as a leader who brought development to the country and prosperity to the people,” he said in a statement today.

PAS also prayed that Najib would remain in good health while serving the remainder of his sentence at home.

“We believe he can still contribute his ideas, views and experience for the good of the country,” Takiyuddin said.

The Prime Minister’s Department’s Legal Affairs Division said earlier today that the conditional pardon was decided at the 64th meeting of the Pardons Board for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya at Istana Negara.

Najib must comply with the conditions imposed, failing which the conditional pardon will be revoked and he will have to immediately serve the remainder of his sentence in prison.

Najib, 73, has been serving his sentence at Kajang Prison since August 23, 2022, following his conviction in the SRC International case involving RM42 million. His original 12-year jail term was reduced to six years in 2024, while his RM210 million fine was cut to RM50 million.

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — The High Court today dismissed businessman Albert Tei’s application to transfer five corruption charges against him from the Sessions Court to the High Court.

Judge Noor Ruwena Md Nurdin dismissed the application by Tei, whose real name is Tei Jiann Cheing, 37, on the grounds that the issues raised were not complex and could be adequately dealt with in the Sessions Court.

“I do not agree with the applicant’s (Tei) application. My position is clear that the issues raised are not complex and would be faced by any accused person.

“Once you are brought before the court, you have time to appoint counsel and prepare yourself for trial. Even if a trial date has been fixed and you are still not ready, the court will grant latitude to postpone proceedings to ensure the accused is genuinely prepared,” the judge said.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Farah Ezlin Yusop Khan appeared for the prosecution, while lawyer Mahajoth Singh represented Tei.

In earlier proceedings, Mahajoth informed the court that the application was made because the charges faced by his client involved constitutional issues under the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Act.

Tei, 37, faces four charges of giving RM140,000 cash bribes, as well as furniture and electrical appliances worth RM14,580.03 and RM22,249, to the Prime Minister’s former senior political secretary, Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin.

The bribes were allegedly inducements to secure Shamsul Iskandar’s assistance in helping companies linked to the accused obtain approval for mineral exploration licences in Sabah, although the matter had no connection to his principal’s affairs.

The offences were allegedly committed at a hotel car park in Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, Jalan Medang Serai, Bukit Bandaraya, here, and in Precinct 14, Putrajaya, between November 24, 2023 and March 5, 2024.

Tei is also accused of giving RM64,924 in bribes to Shamsul Iskandar at a bank in Country Heights, Kajang, between November 28, 2023 and September 23, 2024.

All the charges are framed under Section 17(b) of the MACC Act 2009, which provides for a maximum jail term of 20 years and a fine of not less than five times the sum or value of the bribe, or RM10,000, whichever is higher, upon conviction. — Bernama

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 18 — The conditional pardon allowing former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest does not weaken the government’s resolve to fight corruption and power abuse, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.

He said all corruption cases, including ongoing proceedings involving Najib, must continue in accordance with the law.

“As Prime Minister, my duty is to provide advice on the legal implications, national stability and the principle of the rule of law, while also taking into account the Attorney General’s detailed written advice.

“But ultimately, the Constitution provides for the powers of His Majesty the King, and I hope we can accept the decision,” he told reporters after Friday prayers at Surau Nur Perdana in Precinct 10 here today.

Anwar said Malaysia must remain firm in tackling corruption, with public support needed to ensure misconduct or abuse of power for personal enrichment is not taken lightly.

“The same applies to other corruption cases. This country must be saved, and we need firmness with the support of all Malaysians to ensure the law is no longer taken lightly when there is misconduct or abuse of power to enrich any leader or individual. This is our stance,” he said.

Asked whether clear standard operating procedures (SOPs) were needed for house arrest, Anwar said the matter fell under the Home Ministry’s jurisdiction.

His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, today granted Najib a conditional pardon allowing him to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest until August 23, 2028, subject to the payment of a RM50 million fine.

The Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) of the Prime Minister’s Department said the decision was made at the 64th meeting of the Pardons Board for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya at Istana Negara today. — Bernama

KLUANG, Sept 18 — A 19-year-old student pursuing studies in Singapore was charged in the Magistrate’s Court here today with reckless and dangerous driving over a crash that killed four family members last June.

Goh Yin Zun pleaded not guilty after the charge was read to him through an interpreter before Magistrate Norasidah A Rahman, Berita Harian reported.

According to the charge sheet, Goh is accused of driving a Mercedes-Benz in a manner dangerous to the public at KM27 of Jalan Renggam-Simpang Renggam at around 1.19pm on June 1.

The charge was framed under Section 42(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, which provides for a jail term of up to five years and a fine of up to RM15,000 upon conviction.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Nik Noratini Nik Azam initially proposed bail at RM20,000.

In mitigation, defence counsel Mohd Daud Ismail and Hang Lee Ying appealed for a reduced amount, urging the court to consider that the accused is a youthful offender currently pursuing a diploma in business studies in Singapore.

Mohd Daud added that Goh had extended full cooperation to investigators throughout his initial remand period and subsequent release on police bail in June.

Magistrate Norasidah allowed Goh bail at RM10,000 with one surety, alongside an order requiring him to report to a police station once a month.

The court fixed Nov 20 for case mention and the submission of documents.

KAJANG, Sept 18 — Kajang Prison and the residence of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak have become focal points for local and international media following the announcement that he has been granted a conditional pardon by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, today.

A Bernama survey found that Malaysian Prison Department personnel had set up a blockade along the access road to the prison’s main entrance to control movement into and out of the complex.

Media personnel gathered outside the prison were restricted to a waiting area about 10 metres from the main gate.

As of 12.30 pm, there was no movement involving the former prime minister detected at the Kajang Prison entrance.

Meanwhile, Najib’s residence on Jalan Langgak Duta in the capital attracted more than 50 local and international media personnel after news of the conditional pardon was announced.

A general view shows the gates to the compound of Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s the private residence in Langgak Duta, Kuala Lumpur, on Sept 18, 2026. — Picture by Firdaus Latif

Several police vehicles were also seen at the location.

Earlier, Bernama reported that the Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) of the Prime Minister’s Department announced that Sultan Ibrahim had granted Najib a conditional pardon, allowing him to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest until Aug 23, 2028, subject to payment of a RM50 million fine.

In a statement, BHEUU said the decision was made at the 64th meeting of the Pardons Board for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya at Istana Negara today.

Najib, 73, has been serving his prison sentence at Kajang Prison since Aug 23, 2022. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — Umno has launched a nationwide donation drive to assist former party president Datuk Seri Najib Razak in settling the RM50 million fine required under his conditional royal pardon, party president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced today.

Zahid said the party, representing its entire leadership and grassroots membership, conveyed its profound gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, describing the royal decision as a moment of tremendous relief for Najib, his family, and party loyalists who had “never ceased to hold hope and offer prayers” for his release.

“Umno calls upon all party leaders, members and supporters, as well as anyone wishing to lend their support, to contribute voluntarily through an initiative that will be carried out transparently, in an orderly manner, and in full compliance with all applicable rules and laws,” Zahid said in a statement.

However, the Umno president did not provide immediate operational details on how the collection would be structured or administered.

Earlier today, the Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) of the Prime Minister’s Department announced that Sultan Ibrahim had consented to grant Najib a conditional pardon, permitting him to serve the remainder of his custodial sentence under house arrest until August 23, 2028, subject to the full payment of the RM50 million fine.

The decision was concluded during the 64th meeting of the Pardons Board for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya at Istana Negara this morning.

Zahid emphasised that Umno’s advocacy for Najib had always been pursued “with full propriety and humility, through the proper designated channels,” reiterating that unwavering respect for the Malay Rulers, the Federal Constitution, and the rule of law remain the party’s core principles.

He also called on party members to welcome the royal decision with humility, decorum, and strict adherence to legal norms.

Najib was convicted in 2020 in the SRC International corruption case, one of several high-profile trials linked to the 1MDB scandal. He commenced his sentence at Kajang Prison in August 2022 after the Federal Court dismissed his final appeal.

His original 12-year jail term was subsequently halved to six years and his initial RM210 million fine reduced to RM50 million following an earlier review by the Pardons Board in early 2024.

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — The Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) has rejected a representation by independent preacher Zamri Vinoth regarding a charge of making a statement likely to cause public alarm in connection with a gathering held in front of a shopping complex in the capital.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Nur Farhana Mohamad Poad informed Magistrate Faezahnoor Hassan of the decision during proceedings today.

“Today was fixed for the decision on the representation, and we wish to inform the court that the representation has been rejected,” she said.

Lawyer Nur Shafiqah Shafiyah Omar, representing Zamri, subsequently requested that the court fix dates for the trial.

Nur Farhana said the prosecution was expected to call six to seven witnesses to testify.

The court subsequently fixed April 21 and 22 next year for the trial.

On March 17, Zamri Vinoth, whose real name is Muhammad Zamri Vinoth Kalimuthu, 42, was charged with making a statement likely to cause public alarm and incite any person to commit an offence against public order through his Facebook account, “Zamri Vinoth”, at 12.22pm on February 3.

The statement was subsequently seen and heard by a 45-year-old man at Restoran Nasi Kandar Kudu on Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman here.

The charge was framed under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code (Act 574), which provides for imprisonment of up to two years, a fine, or both upon conviction.

Speaking to reporters outside the court, Nur Shafiqah said the representation was submitted to seek a review of the charge, including the possibility of reducing the charge or pursuing a similar outcome. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — Air quality across Malaysia deteriorated further by midday today, with 35 monitoring stations recording “Unhealthy” Air Pollutant Index (API) levels as of 12pm, according to Department of Environment (DoE) data.

The latest figure marks an increase from the 34 affected locations reported earlier this morning.

Johan Setia in Selangor remained the nation’s most polluted area, registering an API reading of 193 at noon. The reading keeps the area perilously close to the “Very Unhealthy” benchmark of 200, after logging a peak of 198 earlier in the day.

Sarawak and Selangor continued to bear the brunt of the regional haze. Sarawak registered the highest number of affected stations nationwide, with eight locations in the unhealthy band: Kuching (184), Samarahan (175), Serian (171), Sibu (164), Sarikei (162), Bintulu (158), Sri Aman (153), and Mukah (125).

Selangor followed closely with six stations recording elevated pollution. Alongside Johan Setia, unhealthy levels were logged in Shah Alam (172), Banting (166), Petaling Jaya (165), Klang (160), and Kuala Selangor (139).

Klang Valley, central and northern states

High readings persisted across the greater Klang Valley and neighboring states. In the Federal Territories, Putrajaya posted 176, while Kuala Lumpur logged identical readings of 168 in both Batu Muda and Cheras.

In Negeri Sembilan, Nilai recorded 180, followed by Seremban at 170 and Port Dickson at 158.

Perak recorded four affected stations, led by Seri Manjung at 173 and Tasek Ipoh at 167, with Tanjung Malim and Pegoh Ipoh registering 153 and 145 respectively.

In Melaka, all three monitoring stations recorded unhealthy air quality: Alor Gajah (163), Bukit Rambai (159), and Bandaraya Melaka (151).

Johor logged five affected locations, led by Segamat (160) and Tangkak (159), alongside Batu Pahat (155), Kluang (153), and Larkin (128).

On the East Coast, Pahang registered elevated readings in Temerloh at 152 and Jerantut at 115. In Sabah, Tawau recorded an API level of 131.

The DoE confirmed it is maintaining round-the-clock air quality surveillance across the country, cautioning that readings will continue to fluctuate based on regional wind shifts and transboundary hotspot activity.

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 18 — Former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has been granted a conditional royal pardon allowing him to serve the remainder of his prison sentence under house arrest, the Legal Affairs Division announced today.

The division under the Prime Minister's Department said the decision was finalised during the 64th meeting of the Pardons Board for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya, which convened this morning.

“His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia has consented to grant a conditional pardon to Datuk Seri Najib Razak, allowing him to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest until 23 August 2028, subject to his payment of a fine of RM50 million,” the statement said.

The secretariat noted that Najib must strictly comply with all statutory terms attached to the royal pardon. Should he breach any of the stipulated terms, the conditional pardon will be automatically revoked, and he will be immediately returned to prison to serve the remainder of his sentence.

Najib was convicted in 2020 in the SRC International corruption case, one of several major trials linked to the 1MDB scandal. He began serving his initial 12-year prison sentence at Kajang Prison in August 2022 after the Federal Court dismissed his final appeal.

His prison term was subsequently halved to six years and his original RM210 million fine reduced to RM50 million following an earlier review by the Federal Territories Pardons Board in early 2024.

The division did not disclose further specific conditions attached to the house arrest order.

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh has denied signing any house arrest order involving former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, which has been circulating on social media.

Hannah made the statement in a post on her X account early today.

“I have never signed any house arrest order as claimed in the document. The Pardons Board had yet to convene when it surfaced. Please do not spread this fake document. My press secretary has lodged a report with the authorities,” read the post.

In the same post, Yeoh also shared a screenshot confirming the report submitted to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) regarding the matter.

Earlier, a document purported to be a house arrest order involving Najib and bearing Hannah’s signature had gone viral on social media.

Istana Negara has been the focus of media attention since early this morning as journalists followed developments related to the 64th Meeting of the Pardons Board for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) aims to establish at least one Community Rehabilitation Centre (PPDK) at major camps to care for children with special needs.

Chief of Defence Force General Tan Sri Malek Razak Sulaiman said the move is part of MAF's efforts to support its personnel, particularly those caring for special needs children.

“The welfare of MAF personnel and their families remains a priority, managed with a sense of humanity, to ensure that those serving in the field or at the borders do not worry about the safety of their families at home.

“We are aiming to open at least one PPDK at every major camp to help care for children with special needs,” he said in a special interview for the 93rd MAF Day celebration here.

He said the centres would give affected personnel peace of mind, allowing them to fully focus on their duties.

Meanwhile, Malek Razak said MAF is carrying out 898 maintenance projects involving 15,024 units of Armed Forces Family Housing (RKAT) to ensure comfortable living conditions for security force personnel.

The projects, funded under a P60 allocation that began in April and due for completion by December, cover an additional 301 accommodation blocks and 989 related infrastructure works.

This includes Projek Cakna Madani, which involves maintaining 2,097 selected RKAT units, with progress monitored to ensure compliance with quality, cost and completion timelines.

He said the socio-economic standing of soldiers' wives is also being enhanced through the Armed Forces Welfare Body (BAKAT), via income-generating initiatives such as mushroom cultivation and vegetable farming.

Upgrading infrastructure at older camps remains a priority, he said, such as maintenance of technical buildings, offices, as well as hostel and dining hall facilities to create a comfortable working environment.

“All these welfare plans are carried out on the principle that no MAF personnel fights alone and no family is left without support,” he said.

MAF celebrated its 93rd anniversary on Tuesday, with the theme “Ketahanan ATM, Benteng Pertahanan Negara” (MAF Resilience, Bastion of National Defence). — Bernama

ISKANDAR PUTERI, Sept 18 — A 43-year-old local man has surrendered to the police after a viral video captured a white Porsche being driven against the flow of traffic to bypass a roadblock in Iskandar Puteri, Johor.

In a statement on Thursday, Iskandar Puteri acting police chief Supt Saifullah Jaya @ Yahaya said the district Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Division detected the 12-second clip circulating on social media, which showed the sports car being driven recklessly through a police checkpoint at KM6.5 of Jalan Ismail Sultan.

The driver turned himself in at the Iskandar Puteri District Police Headquarters on the same day the footage surfaced. A preliminary urine screening test returned negative for narcotics.

Police are investigating the incident under Section 42(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for reckless and dangerous driving. If convicted, the offender faces a prison sentence of up to five years, a fine ranging between RM5,000 and RM15,000, and a minimum five-year disqualification of his driving licence.

Saifullah warned that the police will not compromise on reckless driving behaviour that jeopardises the safety of the driver and other motorists, adding that investigations remain ongoing.

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — Vehicles carrying Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh and former Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain were seen departing Istana Negara around 9.40am today following the conclusion of the Federal Territories Pardons Board meeting.

Attorney-General Datuk Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar, who sits as a statutory member on the board, was also present for the morning deliberations. As of 9.40am, no official statement had been released regarding the outcome of the session, Astro Awani reported.

The impromptu meeting has intensified public speculation that the board convened specifically to deliberate on the royal pardon petition of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, which was deferred during the board's previous sitting on September 11.

During that earlier meeting, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, who chairs the board, granted royal pardons to 65 other inmates while Najib's case was held back for further consideration.

Najib, 72, is currently serving a reduced sentence after being convicted of misappropriating RM42 million from SRC International Sdn Bhd. He was originally sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment and fined RM210 million, commencing his custodial term at Kajang Prison on August 23, 2022.

In early 2024, the board halved his prison sentence to six years and reduced the fine to RM50 million.

Subsequent controversy centred on assertions by Najib and his legal team regarding an alleged royal addendum order that would allow him to serve the remainder of his term under house arrest. The High Court dismissed his judicial review application on December 22 last year, and Najib withdrew his appeal against that ruling in April this year.

Speculation surrounding today's palace meeting was further heightened after Yeoh publicly dismissed a viral document circulating on social media on Wednesday night that purported to show her endorsement of Najib's house arrest, clarifying that her signature did not appear on the paper.

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — A crash involving two box vans that overturned on their sides has completely blocked all northbound lanes of the North-South Expressway (NSE) at KM257.7, along the stretch between the Menora Tunnel and Kuala Kangsar in Perak.

The Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) reported that northbound traffic ground to a complete standstill following the incident, triggering a 1.7km congestion queue as of 9.18am.

It is unclear if there are any casualties from the incident.

Emergency response teams and recovery machinery are currently on-site working to clear the obstructed lanes.

Northbound motorists are advised to anticipate significant delays, drive with heightened caution when approaching the area, or seek alternative routes where possible.

SEPANG, Sept 18 — Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir expressed his appreciation for the support shown by over 200 members of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) who gathered at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 here last night to welcome his arrival.

Tuanku Muhriz said this to reporters shortly after exiting the VIP lounge at 10.40pm together with Tunku Ampuan Besar Tuanku Aishah Rohani Tengku Besar Mahmud.

“I will return to the palace tonight,” His Royal Highness said.

Asked if he would immediately resolve the Negeri Sembilan royal institution impasse, Tuanku Muhriz replied briefly: “Yes, insya-Allah, insya-Allah. Thank you, everyone.”

Tuanku Muhriz was greeted with shouts of “Daulat Tuanku” by supporters who arrived clad in black attire with songkok as well as yellow shirts.

Also present was Tunku Besar Seri Menanti Tunku Ali Redhauddin Tuanku Muhriz.

More than 200 members of Negeri Sembilan non-governmental organisations gather to welcome Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 in Sepang on September 17, 2026. — Bernama pic

Before departing for the palace, Tuanku Muhriz spent time mingling and shaking hands with the crowd.

Earlier, a peaceful gathering was held to demonstrate support for Tuanku Muhriz, involving several NGOs, including the president of Pertubuhan Otai Reformasi Negeri Sembilan (Profans), Waris Datuk Siamang Gagap, Waris Negeri Sembilan, and Pekan.

The Attorney General's Chambers (AGC) in a statement last night said the proclamation regarding Tuanku Muhriz's position dated April 19 was invalid as it failed to comply with the mandatory requirements of Article 10 of the Laws of the Constitution of Negeri Sembilan 1959.

The AGC also clarified that the Menteri Besar and the Negeri Sembilan State Executive Council do not have unilateral power to depose or declare vacant the office of the Yang Dipertuan Besar.

Meanwhile, the Negeri Sembilan Dewan Keadilan dan Undang (DKU) reiterated that Tuanku Muhriz remains the legitimate Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan and chairman of the DKU. — Bernama

GEORGE TOWN, Sept 18 — Police detained a Chinese national on suspicion of attempting to steal a passenger’s wallet during a flight from Jakarta, Indonesia, to Penang yesterday.

Southwest district police chief ACP Anuwal Ab Wahab said police arrested the 55-year-old man at Penang International Airport after receiving a report from a 36-year-old Indonesian man about the incident.

“During the flight, the Indonesian man saw the suspect remove his bag from the overhead compartment, open it and take his wallet.

“The man managed to record the incident before alerting the cabin crew. The suspect was subsequently detained to assist in the investigation, while all the victim’s belongings were recovered and no loss or financial damage was reported,” he said in a statement last night.

He said further investigations are underway and the case is classified under Section 379 and Section 511 of the Penal Code for attempted theft. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — Police will submit the investigation papers on Selangor delegate Datuk Noorazli Said’s speech at the 2026 Umno General Assembly on Sunday to the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) today.

Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk M Kumar said the case is classified under Section 298 of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

According to him, police received 86 reports and recorded statements from 93 witnesses, including members of the public, organisers, Umno delegates and Noorazli.

“The public are advised not to speculate in ways that could disrupt the investigation or misuse network facilities or services to spread information that has not been verified,” he said in a statement yesterday.

He said all parties must work together to keep the digital space safe while fostering a mature and respectful communication culture for social wellbeing and national stability.

The speech sparked controversy after Noorazli made a comment reportedly involving a Catholic priest and a nun. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued a thunderstorm warning covering multiple states across the country, cautioning that thunderstorms, heavy rain and strong winds are expected until 12 noon today.

In the northern peninsula, the entire state of Perlis is under warning, along with several districts in Kedah, including Bandar Baharu, Kulim, Pendang, Pokok Sena, Langkawi, Kubang Pasu, Kota Setar, Kuala Muda, Yan and Baling.

Penang is also affected in its entirety, while Perak faces widespread impact across Hulu Perak, Kerian, Selama, Larut Matang, Manjung, Bagan Datuk, Hilir Perak, Perak Tengah and Kuala Kangsar.

Further south, the whole of Melaka has been placed under the warning, alongside three districts in Johor — Muar, Tangkak and Batu Pahat.

In East Malaysia, Sarawak's Miri division is expected to see stormy conditions across Marudi, Beluru, Miri and Subis, with Limbang also included.

Sabah faces the broadest exposure in the region, with the Interior areas of Kuala Penyu, Beaufort, Membakut and Sipitang under warning, as well as the West Coast districts of Papar, Kota Belud, Tuaran, Kota Kinabalu, Putatan and Penampang. W.P. Labuan rounds out the list of affected areas.

MetMalaysia explained that a thunderstorm warning is triggered when signs point to storms bringing rainfall exceeding 20mm per hour, either imminent or expected to persist for more than an hour.

Such warnings are valid for no longer than six hours per issuance.

Residents and motorists in the affected areas have been urged to exercise caution, particularly given the risk of flash floods and reduced visibility associated with heavy downpours and strong winds.

KOTA KINABALU, Sept 18 — A weak earthquake measuring 3.7 on the Richter scale was detected about 88 kilometres north of Sandakan, Sabah at 10.30pm yesterday.

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), in a statement on Facebook, said the earthquake occurred at coordinates 6.6 degrees North and 118.3 degrees East.

It said the epicentre was about 354 kilometres south of Palawan, Philippines and 88 kilometres north of Sandakan, at a depth of 392 kilometres.

MetMalaysia said the earthquake posed no tsunami threat to Malaysia. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — A passenger died on board a Sydney-bound Malaysia Airlines flight after suffering a critical medical emergency mid-air on Wednesday.

Malaysia Airlines confirmed that the passenger on board flight MH141 from Kuala Lumpur to Sydney could not be revived despite immediate emergency medical intervention by crew members and qualified medical personnel on board, news.com.au reported.

A doctor, three nurses, and a cabin crew member rushed to assist the passenger and administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), but the doctor on board subsequently pronounced the individual dead.

The passenger, who was travelling alongside a family member, was identified by Daily Mail Australia as a 58-year-old Indian national who suffered a severe asthma attack during the eight-hour journey.

The flight departed Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday morning and touched down at Sydney Airport at 7.43pm local time.

New South Wales Police confirmed that officers were alerted at the international terminal around 5.50pm regarding a medical emergency involving a 58-year-old man on an inbound flight from Malaysia.

Authorities said the death is not being treated as suspicious and no further police investigation is expected.

In a statement yesterday, Malaysia Airlines extended its sincere condolences to the passenger’s family and apologised to travellers affected by delays and disruptions to flights MH141 and its return service, MH140.

SEREMBAN, Sept 18 — The Negeri Sembilan government will not take any action to gazette or enforce the April 19, 2026 proclamation regarding the position of the Yang Dipertuan Besar, the Negeri Sembilan State Secretary’s (SUK) office said in a statement last night.

It said the decision aligned with the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) ruling that the proclamation was invalid, rendering any gazettement unconstitutional.

It said the state government abided by the AGC’s view that members of the Negeri Sembilan State Executive Council (MMKN) had no jurisdiction, authority, or power under the Laws of the Constitution of Negeri Sembilan 1959 to announce the proclamation.

“Furthermore, there is no legal basis for MMKN members to rely on the proclamation dated April 19, 2026 for their announcement,” it said.

The SUK office was referring to statements made by Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim to the media yesterday regarding instructions to gazette the proclamation as decided by the MMKN.

“In this regard, the state administration has referred the matter to the State Legal Adviser to ensure that any necessary action is carried out in accordance with current laws and the Laws of the Constitution of Negeri Sembilan 1959,” the office added.

The AGC in a statement last night said the proclamation dated April 19 regarding the position of Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, was invalid as it failed to comply with mandatory requirements under Article 10 of the state constitution.

It also clarified that the Menteri Besar and the MMKN did not have unilateral authority to depose or declare vacant the office of the Yang Dipertuan Besar.

Meanwhile, the Negeri Sembilan Dewan Keadilan dan Undang (DKU) reiterated that Tuanku Muhriz remained the legitimate Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan and chairman of the DKU. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 17 — Federal Territories Minister Hannah Yeoh and Attorney-General Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar have both reached Istana Negara here for a suddenly-scheduled Pardons Board meeting this morning.

Yeoh’s convoy was seen entering the palace gates at 7.48am, followed closely by a vehicle carrying Mohd Dusuki, NST reported.

Both sit as statutory members on the board, which is chaired by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia.

The meeting is shrouded by speculation that the board is being reconvened to determined pardon application of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, which had been deferred during the previous meeting on Sept 11.

At the time, Najib had been expected to receive some form of pardon.

Last night, Yeoh had dismissed a viral document circulating on social media regarding Najib’s purported house arrest, clarifying that her signature did not appear on the paper.

Najib, 72, was convicted of misappropriating RM42 million belonging to SRC International and sentenced to 12 years in prison, along with a RM210 million fine. He began serving his sentence at Kajang Prison on Aug 23, 2022.

In 2024, the FT Pardons Board halved his prison term to six years and reduced the fine to RM50 million.

However, Najib and his lawyers subsequently insisted that the partial pardon came with a royal addendum for him to serve out his remaining time at home, eventually suing to have this granted.

On Dec 22 last year, the High Court dismissed Najib’s application to serve the remainder of his reduced sentence under house arrest. Najib withdrew his appeal against the decision in April this year.

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — The new-generation MyKad, which started being issued yesterday, no longer comes with the Touch ’n Go facility.

In a social media post, the National Registration Department (NRD) said users can still access the service through the Touch ’n Go eWallet or a separate Touch ’n Go card.

“For users who wish to continue using Touch ’n Go services, the facility can be accessed through the Touch ’n Go eWallet or a separate Touch ’n Go card,” it said.

According to NRD, the new-generation MyKad focuses on its primary function as the country’s official identity document, while incorporating enhanced security and technological features.

Equipped with 53 security features, the new-generation MyKad includes enhanced security elements such as a Dynamic Security Hologram and a transparent window on the front, as well as an Enforcement QR Code and a Dual-Function Interface Chip on the back.

The new MyKad is also expected to have enhanced identity verification capabilities while reducing the risk of forgery and misuse of identity documents.

NRD said the transparent window feature strengthens protection against forgery, while the QR code supports verification and enforcement requirements.

Meanwhile, the Dynamic Security Hologram displays a three-dimensional image that changes according to the viewing angle and lighting, while the UV feature reveals specific security elements that are only visible under ultraviolet light.

Guilloche patterns and microtext have also been incorporated as additional security features, while the polycarbonate layer makes the MyKad more resistant to heat and chemicals, thereby enhancing the card’s durability.

Applications for the new-generation MyKad can be made at 40 NRD branches equipped with printing facilities, where the cards can be issued on the same day.

At NRD branches without printing facilities, applications for the new-generation MyKad can still be made, with the cards ready within five working days. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — Air quality across Malaysia deteriorated significantly this morning, with 34 monitoring stations nationwide recording “Unhealthy” Air Pollutant Index (API) levels as of 8.30am, according to Department of Environment (DoE) data.

Readings across the country spanned between 104 and 198, indicating widespread haze coverage across both Peninsular Malaysia and Sarawak.

Johan Setia in Selangor recorded the nation’s worst air quality at 198, hovering just two points shy of the 200 mark that triggers a “Very Unhealthy” classification.

The next four most severely affected locations were concentrated heavily in Sarawak and the central-southern peninsula: Kuching (192), Samarahan (184), Nilai in Negeri Sembilan (181), and IPD Serian (180).

Sarawak and Selangor hardest hit

Sarawak emerged as the most affected state overall, with eight monitoring stations entering the unhealthy range. Alongside Kuching, Samarahan, and Serian, elevated levels were registered in Sibu (158), Sarikei (157), Bintulu (153), Sri Aman (153), and Mukah (104).

Selangor recorded the highest concentration of polluted areas in Peninsular Malaysia, with six stations logging unhealthy air quality.

Beyond Johan Setia, elevated readings were recorded in Shah Alam (171), Banting (167), Petaling Jaya (162), Klang (161), and Kuala Selangor (148).

Central and southern regions

The haze sat heavily across the greater Klang Valley and neighboring southern states. In the Federal Territories, Putrajaya posted a reading of 173, while Kuala Lumpur logged 166 in Cheras and 164 in Batu Muda.

In Negeri Sembilan, Nilai led with 181, followed by Seremban at 171 and Port Dickson at 159. Melaka recorded three affected stations: Alor Gajah (165), Bukit Rambai (162), and Bandaraya Melaka (153).

Further south in Johor, five locations crossed into the unhealthy bracket, comprising Tangkak (159), Segamat (158), Batu Pahat (155), Kluang (152), and Larkin (128).

Perak and the east coast

In Perak, four stations registered unhealthy levels, led by Seri Manjung at 176 and Tasek Ipoh at 172, while Pegoh Ipoh and Tanjung Malim both tied at 152.

On the East Coast, Pahang recorded two affected stations, with Temerloh at 151 and Jerantut at 107.

The lowest readings among the 34 affected stations were recorded in Mukah (104) and Jerantut (107).

The DoE is continuing round-the-clock air quality surveillance, with conditions expected to fluctuate depending on prevailing wind directions and regional hotspot activity.

SHAH ALAM, Sept 18 — Inside a closed-house chicken farm in Jalan Kebun here, Mohd Muzamri Shoib instructed one of his workers to open the door.

He chose the worker deliberately.

As the door opened, Muzamri watched the flock before explaining why even a simple interruption to their routine could cause stress.

“These chickens can get stressed when someone they do not recognise opens the door,” he said.

But an unfamiliar presence is not the only source of stress for the birds.

Heat poses a far more serious challenge, and one that farmers cannot simply keep outside the door.

A prolonged spell of extreme heat could affect how quickly chickens grow, how much farmers lose and how well they perform.

Keeping the heat out

Malay Mail recently visited Muzamri’s farm, where the broiler farmer and chairman of the Selangor Poultry Farmers Association has spent 26 years raising chickens.

With a very strong El Niño expected to develop towards the end of this year, Malaysia could face extreme heat and dry weather from January to May 2027, with temperatures potentially reaching 40°C, according to MetMalaysia.

Farmers like Muzamri are therefore relying on systems that have become an increasingly important part of modern poultry farming.

His farm has two closed-house poultry buildings, one with two levels and another with a single level, both equipped with cooling pads and exhaust fans designed to keep temperatures under control.

The cooling pads line the walls of the buildings, with water pumped from large tanks and circulated through them before air is drawn through and cooled.

Muzamri inside his closed-house chicken farm in Jalan Kebun, Shah Alam. — Picture by Yusof Isa

At the other end, large exhaust fans pull the air out while helping to remove ammonia and odours from the building.

The result is a controlled environment in which the temperature can be adjusted according to the age of the chickens.

Younger birds, for instance, require warmer conditions, with temperatures of around 37°C being more comfortable for them, similar to the warmth they would experience with a mother hen.

For older broilers, however, excessive heat becomes a growing concern.

When chickens start to overheat

Professor Datuk Zulkifli Idrus, chairman of the Agriculture Committee, the Academy of Sciences Malaysia, said chickens were particularly vulnerable to prolonged heat because they could not sweat like humans.

Their bodies are covered with feathers, making it harder for them to lose heat.

Instead, chickens mainly cool themselves by panting and increasing blood flow to their skin, combs and wattles.

“When temperatures remain high, they pant more, become less active, eat less and drink more,” he said.

If the heat continues, the birds can become dehydrated and their normal bodily functions can be disrupted.

Severe and prolonged heat stress can eventually result in organ failure and death, Zulkifli said.

For broiler farmers, the problem is compounded by the birds’ rapid growth.

Modern broilers become heavy quickly and generate considerable body heat, making birds approaching market weight particularly vulnerable when temperatures rise.

Broiler chickens at Muzamri’s closed-house chicken farm. — Picture by Yusof Isa

Cooling the flock

Muzamri said his farm’s environmental control system allows him to regulate the temperature, ventilation and feeding of the chickens.

The system is currently operated through controls at the farm, although he is looking to upgrade it so the same functions can be managed through a smartphone.

That would allow him to monitor and adjust the system even when he is away from the farm.

The controls can be used for the chicken feeders, cooling pads and fans.

And when the heat becomes particularly intense, Muzamri has another measure ready.

He buys bags of ice and puts them into a reservoir through which water passes before being pumped towards the cooling pads.

He normally orders about 30 large bags, which he said can last five to six days.

The farm has about eight water tanks, roughly the size of those commonly found in the attics of Malaysian landed homes.

Heat stress on chickens

For Muzamri, these preparations are not new.

The system has been in use for years, but the prospect of a prolonged period of extreme heat means there is little room for complacency.

“My farming activities are primarily focused on broiler chickens, but hot weather and maintaining temperatures in poultry houses are indeed very important issues for the poultry industry as a whole, particularly the broiler sector.

“When excessively hot weather occurs, chickens can experience heat stress. The effects depend on the type and age of the chickens.

“For broilers, some of the common concerns include reduced feed intake, slower growth, poorer feed conversion ratio and an increased risk of mortality if temperature and ventilation are not properly controlled,” he said.

Professor Datuk Zulkifli Idrus, director of the Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security at Universiti Putra Malaysia, said chickens were particularly vulnerable to prolonged heat because they could not sweat like humans. — Picture by Yusof Isa

These systems are increasingly important for modern farmers, particularly those operating closed-house farms, where exhaust fans, cooling pads, tunnel ventilation systems, temperature and humidity sensors and automatic controllers are used to manage heat.

“When temperatures rise, these systems increase ventilation and use cooling pads to help lower the temperature inside the poultry house,” Muzamri said.

“We also incur costs to purchase ice to help cool the poultry houses during the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm.”

But keeping chickens cool is not simply a matter of turning on more fans.

Water is just as important.

Zulkifli said chickens drink substantially more during hot weather as they try to replace fluids lost through panting and cool their bodies.

A constant supply of clean drinking water that is not excessively warm is therefore essential, while farmers must also ensure their generators and emergency power supplies are working.

A power failure during extreme heat can be particularly dangerous in a closed-house system because the ventilation and cooling systems can stop at the moment they are most needed.

Muzamri said his preparations also extend to giving the chickens drinks containing rock sugar and other supplements intended to help them cope with the heat.

“We also provide chickens with drinks that can help cool their bodies, including rock sugar and other additional supplements, to help regulate their body temperature,” he said.

For open-house farms, where conditions inside the poultry houses are more directly affected by the weather outside, farmers must pay closer attention to ventilation, fans, shading, water supply and stocking density.

Preparing for prolonged heat

Zulkifli said the greatest risk was not necessarily a single exceptionally hot afternoon, but a prolonged spell in which high temperatures persisted day after day, particularly when nights remained warm and gave the birds little opportunity to recover.

“The problem is not just one unusually hot afternoon, but a series of hot days over a long period, especially if the night temperatures stay high and the birds have little time to recover,” he said.

The combination of temperature, humidity, ventilation and water availability determines how severe the heat stress becomes.

Adult chickens generally begin to experience heat stress when temperatures rise above about 26°C, particularly when humidity is high, he said.

The risk becomes considerably greater once temperatures reach 32°C to 35°C and above.

High humidity makes panting less effective because the birds struggle to release heat through evaporation.

For broilers, the consequences can extend beyond animal welfare and into production.

Heat-stressed birds eat less, grow more slowly and can become less efficient at converting feed into body weight.

Severe or prolonged heat stress can also increase mortality.

Modern broilers become heavy quickly and generate considerable body heat, making birds approaching market weight particularly vulnerable when temperatures rise. — Picture by Yusof Isa

Laying hens face a different set of problems.

Reduced feed intake means fewer nutrients and less energy are available for egg production, while prolonged heat exposure can interfere with reproductive processes.

The result can be fewer and smaller eggs, as well as poorer eggshell quality.

For farmers, the priority is therefore to prevent heat stress before it becomes severe.

“Fans, cooling pads, water pumps, sensors, generators and water supplies need to be inspected and maintained more frequently,” Muzamri said.

At Muzamri’s farm, much of that infrastructure is already in place.

The technology may eventually move further away from the farm floor and into the farmer’s hand, with smartphone controls allowing Muzamri to monitor conditions and operate equipment remotely.

For now, however, the principle remains the same as it has throughout his 26 years in the industry: keep the birds comfortable, keep the air moving and make sure there is enough water.

With the heat expected to intensify, those preparations could become increasingly important.

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 17 — The Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) said the Negeri Sembilan state executive council’s media statement or announcement has no legal effect as its members had no jurisdiction, authority or power under the Negeri Sembilan Constitution 1959 to make it.

The AGC said there was also no legal basis for the state executive council members to rely on the April 19, 2026 proclamation for their announcement, adding that any move to gazette or implement the proclamation would be invalid and unconstitutional.

In a statement today, the AGC said it had taken note of the document titled “Media Statement of the Negeri Sembilan State Executive Council — Decision of the Negeri Sembilan State Executive Council Meeting No. 6 of 2026 (September 15, 2026)”.

It said the Menteri Besar and state executive council did not have unilateral power to terminate or declare vacant the position of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar, while the validity and effect of the proclamation must be determined through a valid constitutional and legal process, particularly under the Negeri Sembilan Constitution 1959.

The AGC said it had previously given the preliminary view that the April 19 proclamation was invalid because it did not comply with the mandatory requirements under Article 10 of the state constitution, particularly as there was no evidence that any of the disqualifying factors under Article 10(1) applied to Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir.

It said although the Datuk-Datuk Undang have the power to take action to remove the Yang di-Pertuan Besar, Article 10 also provides the procedures and grounds for consideration before such a decision can be made.

“To date, there are no facts indicating that the prescribed procedures have been complied with,” it said.

The AGC also said an issue had arisen over whether some of the Datuk-Datuk Undang who signed the proclamation were lawfully holding office, as they had been removed according to the customary practices of their respective luak.

“The validity of several Undang who signed the proclamation is disputed because their removal was carried out according to the customs of their respective luak,” it said.

“Therefore, the composition of the Undang Yang Empat was in fact incomplete at the material time,” it added.

The AGC said it respected the position of the Datuk-Datuk Undang and acknowledged that the appointment and removal of each of them were subject to the customary rules of their respective luak.

It said the 1959 state constitution also provides for the establishment of the Dewan Undangan dan Keadilan, with Article 16 placing matters concerning Malay customs, including the selection, appointment, placement and removal of Undang, as well as matters brought by the Yang di-Pertuan Besar, under the Dewan’s jurisdiction.

Under Article 16(3), it said, the Dewan’s advice on such matters is final and cannot be challenged or questioned in any court on any grounds.

The AGC also said the matter was currently before the High Court of Malaya in Seremban and that an interlocutory injunction remained in force.

It urged all parties to respect the court process and allow the matter to be resolved in an orderly manner.

KLANG, Sept 17 — Another body, believed to be one of the anglers missing off One Fathom Bank near Pulau Ketam on Sunday, was found floating off Hutan Melintang, Perak, late this afternoon.

Selangor Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) operations officer, Maritime Lieutenant Mohd Syafiq Sazali said a local fishing boat spotted a man’s body floating at 4.26 pm.

“The discovery was immediately relayed to Perak MMEA for further action.

“The MMEA vessel KM Nusa, conducting search operations in the area, proceeded to the location about three nautical miles from the Selangor–Perak maritime boundary,” he told reporters at the Search and Rescue (SAR) Forward Operating Base at the Sementa Jetty here today.

Mohd Syafiq added that the latest recovery was about two nautical miles from where the first victim, Mohd Shahril Abd Rahman, was found yesterday.

“The body, wearing a life jacket, will be brought ashore at the Hutan Melintang Jetty. Police will handle formal identification with family members or next of kin,” he said.

Meanwhile, the family of missing angler Muhammad Ridzuan Ruhaizat, 37, remains hopeful he will be found safe.

The victim’s uncle, Khairul Muhidin, 47, said he last met his nephew, a contractor with a utility company, at his Jalan Kebun residence on September 4, where they mostly chatted about work.

“On the night of the incident (Sunday), I was shocked when family members informed me. I immediately dialled the 999 emergency line,” he told reporters at the Sementa Jetty.

Khairul said the family is hopeful Muhammad Ridzuan is safe. He described his nephew, the fourth of six siblings and an avid angler, as resilient, noting he was wearing a life jacket during the incident.

“He might have held onto something or a container to stay afloat. Our main concern is dehydration at sea,” he said.

Khairul said two other relatives who survived the incident, namely Mohd Rizal Mohamad Sadali and Muhd Hamiszar Punirain, both 45, are reported to be in stable condition.

“Mohd Rizal was transferred to a private hospital in Shah Alam, while Muhd Hamiszar, who suffered neck injuries, is being treated at Hospital Banting. Both are stable but remain traumatised by the ordeal,” he said.

Earlier, Selangor Menteri Besar’s Political secretary Saifuddin Shafi Muhammad, visited the victim’s family and received a briefing on the latest developments of the incident.

Besides Mohd Rizal and Muhd Hamiszar, the other survivors were Mohd Shairazi Abdul Aziz, 43, and boat skipper Zulfikalnain Awang, 47. The four were rescued on the second day of the SAR.

The two remaining missing victims are Muhammad Ridzuan and Raja Mohd Rozi Raja Mohamad, 49. — Bernama 

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 17 — Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) will create nearly 49 hectares of new recreational spaces and public parks across the capital, as part of efforts to expand the city’s network of green areas and recreational facilities.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh said the strategic initiative included pre-development works and the utilisation of Department of Irrigation and Drainage reserves along Sungai Bunus and Kolam Ayer Panas.

She said the development will also cover the pond area next to Jalan Tasik Permaisuri 3, as well as a phased project at the Kampung Sungai Bohol Retention Pond.

“Our main aim under this initiative is not merely to create new recreational spaces, but to ensure that every valuable open and green space in Kuala Lumpur is legally gazetted and protected,” she said after inspecting the Bunus Flood Retention Pond here today.

She said the areas will be equipped with basic infrastructure suitable for people of all ages, particularly senior citizens and children, such as jogging tracks and lighting, while enforcement will be tightened to prevent encroachment or unauthorised commercial activities.

Hannah said that through the continued efforts of the Federal Territories Land and Mines Office (PPTGWP), 556 open-space lots have now been gazetted, while more than 200 others are in the final stages of the gazettement process.

She said the transparency of the gazettement process allows city residents to check the list of protected open spaces themselves through the MyHijau application on the official PPTGWP portal.

Meanwhile, Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Fadlun Mak Ujud said DBKL allocates more than RM200 million under Budget 2027 for the green cluster, covering the management, preservation and upgrading of public facilities.

He said DBKL submitted an application to the Ministry of Finance under a matching grant scheme to upgrade 14 neighbourhood children’s playgrounds to safer, more modern designs. — Bernama