Monday, October 19, 2026

EU condemns Israeli settler attack on diplomats in occupied West Bank

EU demands accountability after settlers attack European diplomats amid violence against Palestinian olive farmers.

The European Union has condemned an attack by Israeli settlers on a convoy carrying European diplomats in the occupied West Bank and called for action to stop the pogroms.

The 27-member bloc issued its statement on Sunday, the day after masked settlers attacked a visiting delegation near the Palestinian village of Taybeh.

Sunday, October 18, 2026

After Oriental Kopi saga, Gardenia, Massimo join fray as yardstick of “Chinese boycott of Malay biz”

After Oriental Kopi saga, Gardenia, Massimo join fray as yardstick of “Chinese boycott of Malay biz”

SOME rightist-minded netizens have interestingly revived the Gardenia-Massimo bread rivalry which goes back to 2011-2013 when the former got framed online as a UMNO crony brand to paint a picture of so-called Chinese racist attitude towards Malay-owned businesses.

A good example will be this post by Threader @mangkuk999 who ticked off the Chinese for defending ‘unpatriotic’ Oriental Kopi in the no-BM-in-menu brouhaha while poking fun at the clarion call to boycott the popular Nanyang-style kopitiam chain as a “typical B40 cry-baby mentality”.

“It’s so funny the Chinese (are) mocking the Malays about boycotting Oriental Kopi which I’m not boycotting since the owner has already apologised,” remarked the self-proclaimed “have no qualm to speak out even from the toilet” poster.

“You think we don’t know the Chinese boycotting Gardenia and buy Massimo because the owner is Malay? Come on lah, don’t talk about boycott. U already did first. We just keep silent [Sic].”

Beyond the two bread brands, @mangkuk999 further observed that the Chinese “also rarely shop at Mydin (Bumiputera-owned hypermarket)”.

“Do you know why? ” he jibed. “Just that we the tolerant Malays couldn’t be bothered.”

Like it or not, the claim by @mangkuk999 was verified by one Kak Lala (@sewavellfiresemenyih) who recounted an auntie telling her to “better buy Massimo which pay taxes, taste good, blah blah blah”.

“The auntie must have thought I’m not as smart. But I’m a nurtizen (slang for social media users who support aspects of morality that are considered correct) la,” teased the Vellfire car rental owner.

As a self-proclaimed Chinese footballer revealed that “I buy Gardenia if they’re available and Massimo when they’re out of stock”, another Malay woman recalled a former Chinese officemate “got scolded by another Chinese colleague because she bought Gardinia instead of Massimo”.

To quell suspicion of his biasness towards this Chinese given “many Chinese friends DM (direct message) me denying any boycotting of Gardenia from the Chinese community”, @mangkuk999 who was adamant that “this is an open secret” resorted to attach the following screenshot.

In fact, his post elicited so much attention from rightist-minded netizens till political influencer ahmad abdul nasir (@ghazoff) started wondering if “it’s true that Chinese is boycotting Gardenia and even Petronas (petrol) because both are owned by Malay entities”.

Well, true or otherwise, one commenter reckoned that this is inevitable as “the Buy Chinese First (BCF) mentality has been inculcated from childhood”.

“I had one engaged in a heated exchange on Twitter (on a similar subject) and someone admitted to it. But they get angry when we Buy Muslim First (BMF) as this will affect their market.”

Truth be told

At the end of the day, the Gardenia vs Massimo perception is misplaced given that market share study reveals that Gardenia Bakeries (KL) Sdn Bhd dominates roughly 70% of the market with its bread products enjoying an extensive “route-to-market” distribution network reaching over 23,000 stores, high-volume automated production and strong brand loyalty.

Moreover, Gardenia is not an entirely a Bumiputera entity but a 50/50 joint venture controlled by Singapore-listed food and beverage group QAF Ltd and Padiberas Nasional Bhd (BERNAS) which is linked to tycoon Tan Sri Syed Mokhtar Al-Bukhary through Tradewinds (M) Bhd.

On the other hand, The Italian Baker Sdn Bhd which is the parent of Massimo holds an estimated 8% to 10% consumer preference share.

The brand competes through vertical integration, quality-focused branding and competitive pricing backed by parent company FFM Bhd which has since been privatised and delisted from Bursa Malaysia in 2004 after it became a subsidiary of PPB Group Bhd which was founded by Malaysian billionaire Tan Sri Robert Kuok.

As a matter of fact, Massimo boasts a more nationalistic feature given that it is a 100% Malaysian-owned business compared to Gardenia. – Oct 18, 2026

Main image credit: Kay Koo/Facebook

Former Melaka MB suggests Anwar as leader of a ‘greater UMNO’

Former Melaka MB suggests Anwar as leader of a ‘greater UMNO’

FORMER Melaka Menteri Besar (MB) Datuk Seri Idris Haron has reaffirmed his support for the Unity Government led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, proposing a new “Greater UMNO” concept to unite the nation’s political landscape.

Speaking at a press conference in Klebang, Idris revealed he held face-to-face discussions with Anwar regarding his role as a national leader.

He suggested that Anwar assume the leadership of a re-envisioned United Malaysian National Organisation (Greater UMNO) – not as an ethnic Malay party, but as an overarching umbrella coalition representing all Malaysians.

“I support the government led by Anwar. There were discussions with Anwar to discuss how he can become a greater leader in the context of Malaysian unity,” he said.

Under this proposed framework, existing political parties across the spectrum – including UMNO, MCA, MIC, DAP, Gerakan, Amanah, and PAS – would function under one central leadership headed by Anwar.

Idris emphasised that fostering a truly united Malaysian nation must take precedence over preserving ethnic-based political parties to ensure long-term stability and national integration.

“It is not the Malay party UMNO that is meant, but rather you need to become the President of the United Malaysian National Organisation, and this United Malaysian National Organisation is a Greater UMNO that serves as the central leadership for all political parties.

“UMNO, MCA, MIC, DAP, Gerakan, Amanah, and PAS are the United Malaysian National Organisation, and you (Anwar) are its president.

“All the presidents of those respective parties will work with and assist you as the President of the United Malaysian Nation,” he said. — Oct 17, 2026

Tambun monastery urges probe over blockade, cement manufacturer defends action

Tambun monastery urges probe over blockade, cement manufacturer defends action

Aina Fatihah Abdullah, Aiman Nur Suria Kamaruzaman

Published: Oct 18, 2026 5:30 PM

The management of Sakyamuni Cave Monastery in Tambun has urged Suhakam, the Perak government and local authorities to investigate alleged access restrictions and harassment at Gunung Kanthan.

However, the Associated Pan Malaysia Cement Sdn Bhd (APMC) has defended its decision to block the monastery’s main entrance, saying it was intended to prevent construction materials and heavy machinery allegedly being used to build unauthorised additional structures from entering the site.

APMC is a cement manufacturer and a subsidiary of YTL Cement, which is part of the YTL Group.

The company also claimed that the blockade did not completely cut off access to the area, as two pedestrian routes remained accessible.

"Our objective is straightforward: to prevent further construction and maintain the status quo," it said in a statement to Malaysiakini.

Meanwhile, Malaysia Dhamma Sakyamuni Monastery (MDSM), outlined seven demands, including an investigation into the blockade at its main entrance, guarantees for the safety and freedom of movement of monks, and an investigation into repeated drone flights over the area.

MDSM alleged that physical obstructions and persistent harassment had occurred while the monks were observing Vassa, the Buddhist rainy-season retreat dedicated to spiritual practice and seclusion.

According to the monastery, concrete blocks were placed at its main entrance on June 23, before a metal barrier was installed on Sept 29. Another guard post was set up on Oct 13.

The monastery also alleged that drones had repeatedly flown at an altitude of about 20 feet over its grounds, two to three times a week – raising concerns about privacy, safety and the freedom to practise their religion.

MDSM also urged the authorities to protect religious practices throughout the Vassa period, respect ongoing court proceedings and facilitate negotiations towards a peaceful and fair resolution.

It further called for all decisions concerning the area to comply with the Ipoh Local Plan 2035.

"We wish to remind the authorities that under the Ipoh Local Plan 2035, it is explicitly stated no quarrying activities are allowed in Gunung Kanthan," the monastery said.

According to MDSM, the plan also provides for the conservation of limestone hills and geosites within the Kinta Valley National Geopark.

'Respect courts' decisions'

APMC, however, claimed that continued construction and expansion at the site could cause further damage to the area's natural environment and contradict the monastery's own position that Gunung Kanthan should be preserved.

The company also stressed that its ownership of the land had been decided and affirmed by the courts.

"And the court’s decision must be respected," it said.

APMC added that, as the landowner within an active quarry area, it was responsible for ensuring safety and security at the site.

"We are not seeking to escalate the situation. We are seeking to prevent more illegal structures from being built," the company said.

APMC also provided Malaysiakini with several photographs that it claimed showed heavy machinery and construction materials at the monastery.

Dispute drags on following court ruling

Sakyamuni Cave Monastery, which its management said is about a century old, faces the prospect of eviction and demolition following legal action by APMC.

The dispute has continued since the Court of Appeal allowed the eviction in 2023. A civil suit filed by the monastery against APMC was subsequently dismissed by the court on Sept 2 this year and the monastery has since appealed the decision.

To prevent APMC from enforcing the Writ of Possession, the monastery has also applied for a stay of execution.

READ MORE: 'Not just a monastery', says head monk of Tambun spiritual site facing demolition

According to MDSM, the application was originally scheduled to be heard on Sept 9. However, the hearing was cancelled, and a new date has yet to be set.

Apart from pursuing legal action, the group of monks has also appealed to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who is also Tambun MP, to intervene to preserve the site and its surrounding environment.

MDSM stressed that Gunung Kanthan is classified as an environmentally sensitive area (ESA) under the Rank 1 forest category and is a geosite within the Kinta Valley National Geopark.

It also said an engineering geology assessment had confirmed that the approximately century-old cave was safe and suitable for continued occupation.

President Trump Cancels Sanctions Against Russia - At Great Risk To Himself

Sunday, October 18, 2026

President Trump Cancels Sanctions Against Russia - At Great Risk To Himself

Pres Trump signed exec order Fri waiving new sanctions, tariffs on Russia
second time in two weeks Trump waived sanctions on Russia
waived sanctions on foreign banks that do business with Russian banks
waived bans on purchase of Russian government bonds
waived sanctions against U.S. investment in Russia
and allows U.S. banks processing transfers to Russian government

(OSTB: I believe this means Russia is back into the SWIFT payments system for US Dollar settlements).

White House published executive order dated 16 October 2026
What does this mean?
Russia gets economic relief
removes restrictions on Russian defence, energy revenues
Countries can buy Russian oil
no tariffs on purchasers of Russian oil and gas
Bottom line: Trump waived broad package of sanctions and tariffs

OSTB: US media is saying that not all US sanctions against Russia have been suspended. Well Russia may still not be able to import American airplanes and motor vehicles but who cares.

This also means that the freeze on Russian assets held in the West are over.

It also places a dead stop to the efforts by the EU to liquidate seized Russian assets and use the money to pay themselves for supplying weapons to Ukraine.

But there are other much more significant issues at stake. NATO is effectively dead. If the founder and most important member of NATO has done a 180 degree U-turn against hostility towards Russia it means the rest of NATO can continue fighting Russia on their own.

It also places the EU governments in a really silly position. EU oil traders, EU banks and EU investors would have already started trading and investment activities with Russia. The Russian stock markets have been booming the past few days - undoubtedly caused by inflows of funds from Europe as well as the United States. The EU countries are now neck deep in a huge pool of hypocrisy - something with which they are terribly familiar.

Alice Weidell leader of the AfD presently the most popular party in Germany and most likely the next German Chancellor has said it plainly that when the AfD comes to power Germany will resume all trade and relations with Russia.

In France Marine Le Pen who is far ahead of all other candidates to be the next president of France has also expressed common sense views towards Russia.

Le Pen has advocated withdrawing France from NATO's integrated military command.
She wants to end French financial aid to Ukraine.
She opposes Ukraine joining the EU.
Which means she certainly opposes Ukraine joining NATO

The US has already stopped supplying Patriot missiles to Ukraine. Claiming that the US needs to maintain their own stocks of Patriots (for Saudi Arabia, UAE and Israel).

All this will have a huge effect on the war in Ukraine. One of the main hurdles preventing a peace deal - that Ukraine be allowed to join NATO - has become quite nonsensical. What if the United States pulls out of NATO? Which is what Mr Trump has actually done. He does not care about NATO. America First.

So far Mr Trump has faced THREE assassination attempts in three years.

1. 13 July 2024 — Butler, Pennsylvania: A gunman shot Trump in the ear during a campaign rally. One attendee was killed and two others were injured.

2. 15 September 2024 — West Palm Beach, Florida: A Secret Service agent spotted an armed suspect near Trump’s golf course before Trump was harmed. The incident was investigated as an assassination attempt.

3. 25 April 2026 — Washington, D.C.: An armed man attempted to enter the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner, where Trump was present. Shots were fired, and Trump was evacuated unharmed. Authorities arrested the suspect.

Many very rich and powerful people will be very pissed off with Mr Trump's decisions. I think Ms Weidell and Ms Le Pen should also take extra precautions for their safety.

COMMENT | Enough tall tales, no more stalling: Malaysians deserve the truth

COMMENT | Enough tall tales, no more stalling: Malaysians deserve the truth

R Nadeswaran

Published: Oct 18, 2026 2:00 PM

COMMENT | Last Friday, Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail mounted a spirited defence of the government's decision to grant Malaysian citizenship to seven foreign footballers.

He explained that applicants were given basic coaching in the Malay language before their interviews and that time spent overseas could be counted as residence in Malaysia for citizenship purposes.

According to a New Straits Times report on Oct 16, Saifuddin (above) acknowledged that some applicants, including those from Argentina, had never lived in Malaysia for the period ordinarily required under the law.

Yet, he argued that the Federal Constitution empowers the home minister to grant exemptions and treat time spent abroad as though it were residence in Malaysia.

“He is from Argentina. Was there any period of residing in this country? The answer is no,” Saifuddin said.

"However, under the Federal Constitution, the home minister can grant an exemption. That means the period he was in Argentina or Spain can be considered as residing in our country."

Utter bunkum! If that interpretation is correct, it raises troubling questions. Does it mean that virtually any foreigner, regardless of where he resides, can be granted Malaysian citizenship simply because the minister chooses to exercise this discretionary power?

Could someone from Timbuktu, Mali, arrive tomorrow and become Malaysian despite never having fulfilled the residence requirement?

If so, what purpose does the constitutional residency provision serve? Is it a genuine requirement or merely an administrative obstacle that can be swept aside at will?

Article 19 (3) of the Federal Constitution reads: “The periods of residence in the federation or the relevant part of it which are required for the grant of a certificate of naturalisation are periods which amount in the aggregate to not less than 10 years in the 12 years immediately preceding the date of the application for the certificate, and which include the 12 months immediately preceding that date.

But Saifuddin’s assertion side-stepped a fundamental issue. The discretionary power over citizenship applications is subject to the provisions of the Federal Constitution and is exercised with due care, taking into account various factors, including public interest, national security, and the facts of each case.

What about NRD?

Before these questions can be answered, however, an even more fundamental issue demands attention: did the National Registration Department (NRD), which comes under the home minister's authority, process citizenship applications supported by forged, falsified or otherwise fraudulent documents?

Does the NRD have the power to issue birth certificates to grandparents of the applicant?

On Sept 19 last year, NRD director-general Badrul Hisham Alias, in a statutory declaration to International Federation of Association Football (Fifa), stated that the players submitted documents listing their grandparents’ details, conducted cross-verification, and received supporting documents from Argentina, Brazil, and Spain.

“However, original handwritten birth records couldn’t be retrieved. Instead, official copies were issued based on secondary evidence,” he said, but did not specify what secondary evidence was adduced and from its source.

What documents did it receive from these countries? If they had been birth certificates of the grandparents, NRD would have known none of them were born in Malaysia.

But was Badrul’s (above) statement untruthful? Yes. Because Fifa had retrieved the original birth certificates and published them in their report to refute the claims made by Badrul.

Using the same analogy, can the man from Timbuktu go to the NRD and request his grandparents’ birth certificates, and will the NRD issue them based on non-existent “secondary evidence”?

Until these questions are addressed convincingly, debates over exemptions and ministerial discretion will remain secondary to the far more serious issue of whether the integrity of Malaysia's citizenship process has been compromised.

While the minister has been making unconvincing arguments on his discretionary power, the man at the centre of this shameful episode, Badrul has chosen to maintain silence.

How long will this have to go on? It has been more than a year since the scandal emerged and there have been no plausible answers provided by the powers that be, including the prime minister, whom the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) thanked for “facilitating documentation” for the seven players.

READ MORE: COMMENT | 'Heritage' players: Mr PM, lead us to the truth

Nation’s credibility at stake

The issue is no longer about football, nor is it about the extent of a minister's discretionary powers. It is about the credibility of Malaysia's citizenship process and the integrity of the institutions entrusted to safeguard it.

For more than a year, the public has been served a steady diet of explanations about exemptions, discretion and "secondary evidence", yet the most basic questions remain unanswered.

How were the applications processed? What documents were relied upon? Who verified them? On what basis were birth certificates issued? And why do the official explanations appear to be contradicted by evidence subsequently revealed by Fifa?

While the home minister continues to advance increasingly unconvincing arguments about his constitutional powers, the central figure in this controversy, Badrul, has maintained a deafening silence.

Silence, however, is not an answer. Nor is it a substitute for accountability.

Citizenship is not a football trophy to be awarded for national convenience. It is the highest legal bond between a nation and an individual.

If residency requirements can be waived, records reconstructed, and citizenship granted on the strength of opaque procedures that cannot withstand scrutiny, then public confidence in the entire system is placed at risk.

Malaysians have waited long enough. Enough of the talk about discretionary powers. Enough of the vague references to secondary evidence. Enough of the evasions.

What is needed now is not another explanation, but the truth. The whole truth. From the moment the applications were submitted, to the issuance of birth certificates, to the granting of citizenship.

Anything less will only deepen the suspicion that this is not merely an administrative controversy, but a scandal that those responsible are determined to keep hidden.

R NADESWARAN is a veteran journalist who tries to live up to the ethos of civil rights leader John Lewis: “When you see something that is not right, not fair, not just, you have to speak up. You have to say something; you have to do something.” Comments: citizen.nades22@gmail.com

***

C'mon Nades, we ALL know why Saifuddin is like a mute stung by a hornet.

KTemoc Konsiders ........

Monday, October 19, 2026

EU condemns Israeli settler attack on diplomats in occupied West Bank

EU condemns Israeli settler attack on diplomats in occupied West Bank

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COMMENT | Enough tall tales, no more stalling: Malaysians deserve the truth

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