No peace in sight: Iran seizes ships as oil surges past US$100, Trump delays strikes

No peace in sight: Iran seizes ships as oil surges past US$100, Trump delays strikes



A screen capture from a video said to show the seizure of the container ships MSC Francesca and Epaminondas in the Strait of Hormuz, broadcasted on Iranian State TV, and released April 22, 2026, shows soldiers taking part in the operation. — IRIB/Handout via Reuters

Thursday, 23 Apr 2026 8:51 AM MYT

• Iran seizes two ships for maritime violations, escalating tensions in Strait of Hormuz
• Iran and US remain divided on ceasefire, blockade, nuclear issues and ‌control of strait
• Iran showcases ballistic missiles in Tehran parade
• Trump extends ceasefire, no new deadline set, Pakistan mediates but talks stall
• Oil prices surge as ​blockade restricts global supply

WASHINGTON/DUBAI/ISLAMABAD, April 23 — Iran seized two ships in the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, tightening its grip on the strategic waterway after US President Donald Trump called off attacks with no sign of peace talks restarting.

Trump maintained the US Navy blockade of Iran’s trade by sea, and Iran’s parliament speaker and top ‌negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said a full ceasefire only made sense if it was lifted. Reopening the strait was impossible with such a “flagrant breach of the ceasefire,” Qalibaf said in a ​post on X.


“You did not achieve your goals through military aggression and you will not achieve them by bullying either. The only way is recognizing the Iranian people’s rights,” he said in his first response to Trump’s ceasefire extension.

Trump has backed away from recent threats to bomb critical Iranian infrastructure, but little progress has been made in resolving issues key to ending the war that started with joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28. That leaves the two sides in a holding pattern with the crucial Strait of Hormuz still effectively shut, ​stranding about one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supplies, straining economies across the world. Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency earlier said the Revolutionary Guards had seized two vessels for maritime violations and escorted them to Iranian shores. It was the first time Iran has seized ships since the war began at the end of February.


The Revolutionary Guards also warned that any disruption to order and safety in the strait would be considered a “red line”, Tasnim said.


Brent, the international crude oil benchmark, closed above US$100 (RM395.76) a barrel for the first time in two weeks. The ongoing blockade of the strait is driving up costs for businesses while major economies run down reserves and restrict consumption with millions of oil barrels cut off from key markets.

No new deadline for ceasefire


Trump said on social media late on Tuesday that the US had agreed to a request by Pakistani ‌mediators “to hold our Attack on the Country of Iran until such time as their leaders and representatives can come up with a unified proposal ... and discussions are concluded, one way or the other.”

Trump has not set a new ⁠end date for the extended ceasefire, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters.

Leavitt said Trump wants to ⁠see a “unified” response from Iran’s leadership to his proposals to end hostilities. US officials believe Iran’s actions suggest it is internally divided on how to respond.

Pakistan, which has ⁠acted as a mediator, was still trying to bring the sides ⁠together after both failed to show up for ⁠talks on Tuesday before the two-week-old ceasefire had been due to expire.

“We were all prepared for the talks,” a Pakistani official briefed on the preparations told Reuters.

“If you ask me honestly, it was a setback we were not expecting, because the Iranians never refused, they were up to come and join, and they still are.”

Show of defiance

In a show of defiance, Iran showcased some of its ballistic weapons at a parade in Tehran on Tuesday evening, with images on state TV showing ⁠large crowds waving Iranian flags and a banner in the background with a fist choking off the strait. Captions read: “Indefinitely under Iran’s Control” and “Trump could not do a damn thing”, referring to the strait, which Iran has effectively shut to ships other than its own by attacking vessels that attempt to transit without its permission. The Revolutionary Guards accused the seized ships, the Liberia-flagged Epaminondas and Panama-flagged MSC Francesca, of operating without required permits and tampering with their navigation systems.

Greece’s Technomar Shipping, which operates Epaminondas, confirmed the ship was captured. Epaminondas reported being fired upon about 20 nautical miles northwest of Oman, sustaining damage to its bridge, though no one was hurt in the incident.

MSC, the world’s biggest container shipping group, did not respond to a Reuters request for immediate comment.

A third, Liberia-flagged container ship was fired upon in the same area but was not damaged and had resumed sailing, according to maritime security sources.

Leavitt ⁠told Fox News’ “The Story with Martha MacCallum” that since the ships were not US or Israeli vessels the seizure was not a violation of the ceasefire. She called it an act of “piracy” and said the use of small gunboats showed that Iran’s navy had been destroyed and that Iran does not have control over the Strait of Hormuz.

Normally, around 130 vessels transit the strait on ⁠a daily basis. That figure has dwindled sharply since the outset of the war.

The US military said on Wednesday afternoon that it had so far directed 29 vessels to turn around or return to port as part of the US ⁠blockade against Iran.

US-Iranian differences remain on key issues

With his announcement on Tuesday, Trump again pulled back at the last moment from warnings to bomb Iran’s power plants and bridges, a threat condemned by the United Nations and others as potentially constituting war crimes. Iran had said it would strike its ​Arab neighbours if its civilian infrastructure was hit.

A first session of peace talks 11 days ago produced no agreement.

Washington wants Iran to give up ​highly enriched uranium and forgo further enrichment to prevent it getting a weapon. Iran, which says its nuclear programme ‌is peaceful, wants an end to the war, the lifting of sanctions, reparations for damage and recognition of its control over the strait. An Israeli ​strike killed two people in southern Lebanon on Wednesday, Lebanon’s state news agency ​reported, and Hezbollah said it launched an attack drone at Israeli forces in the south, further straining a ceasefire between the Iran-backed group and Israel.

The Lebanon ceasefire had been a precondition for Iran agreeing to talks. — Reuters

Tiong rejects social media backlash over Bukit Bintang Rain Rave Festival

Tiong rejects social media backlash over Bukit Bintang Rain Rave Festival



PDP president Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing attends a signing ceremony for the collaboration between the Progressive Democratic Party and Parti Sarawak Bersatu at Parkroyal Collection Kuala Lumpur on July 13, 2023. — Photo by Hari Anggara

Thursday, 23 Apr 2026 9:40 AM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, April 23 — The International Workers’ Day celebration with the Rain Rave Water Music Festival, scheduled to take place from April 30 to May 2 in Bukit Bintang, is an annual tourism event that is held in an organised manner under strict monitoring.

Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said the organisation of the event was in line with the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026) campaign, which aims to stimulate the Kuala Lumpur city economy, drive the tourism industry and support small and medium-sized businesses.

He said the event is organised on a medium scale with the aim of providing a positive, healthy and inclusive interaction platform for local and international participants, especially in conjunction with Labour Day.

“I strongly condemn several inflammatory and defamatory posts on the social media platform Threads by certain parties who deliberately cause confusion, and I do not agree with the action.


“The statement in question has distorted the nature and purpose of the event, thus creating a misleading narrative and clouding the public’s view,” he said in a post on Facebook.


Tiong said the public has the right to express their views, but it must be based on facts and not incitement or manipulation of perceptions that can arouse emotions and threaten social harmony.

In comparison, he said large-scale events such as Songkran in Thailand have long been successful in attracting tourists and generating large economic returns for the country.


“Every year, many Malaysians also go to Thailand to experience the culture, which has a positive impact on tourist arrivals and economic activities,” he said.

He said efforts to stir up controversy or distort facts would only undermine the country’s economic recovery efforts and social stability.

In the still uncertain global economic situation, he said, the tourism sector plays an important role in stimulating spending, supporting the people’s livelihoods and strengthening the resilience of the industry.

Tiong also denied claims that participants were required to wear flashy clothing, insisting instead that the event was organised based on community values and the country’s legal framework.

“Malaysia, as a pluralistic country, needs to continue moving forward by maintaining a balance between economic development and social responsibility, without getting caught up in unproductive conflicts,” he said. — Bernama

Malaysia’s diplomatic approach on Israel-US aggression backed by GCC, says Zahid

Malaysia’s diplomatic approach on Israel-US aggression backed by GCC, says Zahid



Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi attends the Better Nation Forum Series 10: “Impact of US-Iran Conflict on Malaysia” at Menara Dato Onn, World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTC-KL) on April 22, 2026. — Bernama pic

Thursday, 23 Apr 2026 9:35 AM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, April 23 — Malaysia’s balanced diplomatic stand on the West Asian conflict has been well received by most countries, including Iran and the United States, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He said Malaysia’s stance, which is based on the principles of international law and peace, is also respected by Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member countries.


“Malaysia’s stance states that what Israel and the US are doing is indeed contrary to the resolutions of the United Nations and at the same time violates international law and ethics.

“Although at the initial stage the GCC countries were quite worried about the stance, they are now clear that Malaysia’s stance is good,” he said when delivering the keynote address at the 10th Better Nation Forum: The Impact of the US-Iran Conflict on Malaysia, at Menara Dato’ Onn Auditorium here last night.


Ahmad Zahid said Malaysia had also taken the approach of strengthening diplomatic relations with the Gulf countries, the United States and Iran despite facing challenging geopolitical developments.


“However, Malaysia’s relations with the Gulf countries are cordial, as I mentioned, and at the same time we also maintain relations with the US in terms of diplomatic and economic relations, while we continue to maintain our good relations with Iran.

“What is the result of our good relations with Iran? There are seven oil tankers that were unable to pass through the Strait of Hormuz but, thank God, they have been released, although not all of them, but at least the oil supply has been sent to our country and, God willing, in the near future, if the blockade can be lifted, all seven ships will be released,” he said.


He said Malaysia’s impartial but principled approach was the right step to ensure that the country’s interests continue to be preserved, in addition to strengthening Malaysia’s position among the countries involved and friendly countries.

“So the step was the right step because, relatively speaking, even though Malaysia is a small country, the stance and international relations are indeed a bold move, which is impartial, but we can strengthen our position among the countries involved and with friendly countries,” he said. — Bernama

US Navy chief exits suddenly as Pentagon shake-up continues during Iran war

US Navy chief exits suddenly as Pentagon shake-up continues during Iran war



The Pentagon announced on April 22, 2026 that John Phelan is no longer US Navy Secretary without providing an explanation for the sudden exit. — AFP pic

Thursday, 23 Apr 2026 9:27 AM MYT


WASHINGTON, April 23 — US Secretary of the Navy John Phelan will leave office “immediately,” the Pentagon announced Wednesday, without providing an explanation for the sudden exit.

Phelan’s departure follows the removal of top US Army officer general Randy George and two other senior officers earlier this month, at a time when the United States is locked in a war with Iran that still remains unresolved.


Phelan “is departing the administration, effective immediately,” Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said in a statement on X, adding that he would be replaced in an acting capacity by Undersecretary Hung Cao.

Since returning to office early last year, US President Donald Trump has overseen a purge of top military personnel, including the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, general Charles “CQ” Brown, whom he fired without explanation in February 2025.


Other senior officers dismissed include the heads of the US Navy and Coast Guard, the general who headed the National Security Agency, the vice chief of staff of the Air Force, a Navy admiral assigned to NATO, and three top military lawyers.


The chief of staff of the Air Force also announced his retirement without explanation just two years into a four-year term, while the head of US Southern Command retired a year into his tenure.

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has insisted the president is simply choosing the leaders he wants, but Democratic lawmakers have raised concerns about the potential politicization of the traditionally neutral US military.


Last year, the Pentagon chief additionally ordered at least a 20 percent cut in the number of active-duty four-star generals and admirals in the US military, as well as a 10 percent cut in the overall number of general and flag officers. — AFP

JENAYAH KOPIAH PUTIH - LEBAI SAKAU RM230 JUTA DUIT ZAKAT

 

OutSyed The Box

Wednesday, April 22, 2026

JENAYAH KOPIAH PUTIH - LEBAI SAKAU RM230 JUTA DUIT ZAKAT

 Sila baca komen saya di bawah.

MY COMMENTS:

Tuan-Tuan orang Melayu dengar baik-baik ok. This is what will happen bila tuan-tuan jadi bodoh. Geng-geng lebai ini dari dulu lagi mereka sudah faham betapa mudah nak tipu orang Islam, especially orang Melayu.

1. Dulu bila ada conman declare 'saya pemimpin Islam' beratus ribu orang Melayu percaya dia walaupun dia terlibat seks luar tabii yang kronik. Sampai nama dia tersebut dalam kes Epst--n files. Tapi orang Melayu percaya juga. Why? Sebab dia hafal satu dua kerat habla yabla dus fi zabboora.

2. Lepas itu ada se-ekor lagi lebai tipu orang bahawa dia bela jin. Sampai dia berani kata dia pernah imamkan jin dalam sembahyang sekali.  Dus fi zabboora! Hebat dia punya bohong. Tetapi pada zaman itu ramai orang Melayu percaya.

3. Lepas itu jadi lagi kes satu kumpulan lebai gila seks yang ramai juga  terlibat rogol, liwat dan amang seksual anak-anak dalam reban mereka. Kes itu jadi bising sekejap saja lepas itu nothing happened. I suppose orang Melayu sudah lupa. Dulu Dr Mahathir kata orang Melayu mudah lupa.  

4. Lepas itu jadi kes lebai muallap terlibat kes seks juga dan dihadapkan ke mahkamah. Antara tuduhan terhadap dia ialah dia ambil gambar k*nek dia dan di hantar gambar itu kepada seorang wanita. Mungkin dia terasa k*nek dia handsome kut.

5. Banyak tahun dulu juga keluar video lebai glamour (berkereta mewah) berbogel dengan seorang wanita entah mana. Tapi ramai orang Melayu defend lebai itu - dengan membuat pelbagai alasan video itu palsu dsbnya. Masa itu tak ada AI. 

6. Kurang lebih masa itu juga keluar satu lagi video lebai sec-gen berbogel dan lakukan seks dengan seorang wanita entah mana juga.  

Sekarang ikut berita di atas geng lebai tipu duit zakat pula - RM230 Juta!! Mereka beli kereta mewah, simpan ratusan juta Ringgit dalam bank, beli jam tangan mewah dsbnya. Semuanya dengan menipu duit zakat sumbangan orang biasa. Sumbangan orang Melayu yang memang sangat mudah tertipu oleh sesiapa pun. Especially oleh geng lebai yang guna jenama agama, minta sedekah dsbnya.

Duit atau money memang sasaran mereka nombor satu. No money no religion. Kalau tak ada duit yang terlibat saya rasa hilanglah kelibat mereka. 

Saya ada sedikit soalan kepada Datuk Dr. Abu Tariq bin Jamaluddin (GAMBAR ATAS), Chief Executive Officer / Director General of Inland Revenue for the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDN). Dari dulu sampai sekarang (termasuk kes yang latest dalam berita di atas) kita lihat ramai juga geng-geng lebai ini hidup kaya raya, dengan kereta mewah, rumah besar, bini dua tiga dsbnya. Mereka ini hidup serupa Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous. 

Dulu saya pernah terserempak dengan lebai jin itu di sebuah restoran mewah. Dia boleh belanja makan untuk kurang lebih 10 orang di restoran mewah itu.  Dan bila naik kapalterbang dia selalu duduk dalam First Class.    

These people are very rich. So saya nak tanya sedikit soalan kepada  Datuk Dr. Abu Tariq bin Jamaluddin, Director General of LHDN.  Dia orang ini mesti bayar Income Tax yang lumayan. Betul tak? I mean they are so rich. Income Tax file dia orang ini mesti gemuk-gemuk. They must be paying a lot of taxes. Yes or no?

Jangan pula ada kes lebai-lebai kaya raya ini tak ada fail atau nombor Income Tax pun. No Income Tax file.   Datuk Dr. Abu Tariq bin Jamaluddin let me remind you - zaman sudah berubah. Sekarang ini kita berada dalam zaman Kerajaan Kena Tendang (zaman Kick Them Out).  Tak lama nanti akan ada pilihanraya sekali lagi. Percayalah kerajaan akan berubah. 

So lets say kerajaan baru akan masuk dan mereka jadi penyapu baru pula - nak cuci bersih segala kekotoran rejim lama.  And then kalau depa jumpa kes-kes lebai kaya yang tak ada Income Tax file atau nombor Income tax pun, then you will have to answer.

So please pastikan geng lebai kaya ini semua ada Income Tax file, ada nombor Income Tax dan mereka bayar cukai yang lumayan daripada duit mereka yang lumayan.

Kami orang yang sudah retired dan berusia lebih 60 tahun pun terpaksa isi borang LHDN pada setiap tahun. Kalau lewat boleh kena denda lagi. 

Kepada ahli politik Melayu yang dungu dan mati akal, tak tahu macam mana nak berkhidmat menolong orang Melayu, dengar baik-baik ok - anda semua kini berdepan risiko besar ditendang keluar kerana awak semua tidak tahu macam mana nak membantu orang Melayu atau bagaimana cara untuk berkhidmat demi kepentingan awam. Izinkan saya memberi sedikit cadangan.

Anda mesti menggubal undang-undang yang melarang sepenuhnya mana-mana pihak daripada mengutip wang daripada orang ramai atas nama agama. Jika sesiapa ingin membayar zakat, maka hanya jabatan agama sahaja yang sepatutnya mengutip bayaran zakat dan mengeluarkan resit rasmi bagi kutipan tersebut.

RM230 juta adalah jumlah wang yang sangat besar. Jika setiap orang yang kena tipu itu menyumbang RM100 duit zakat, ini bermakna 2.3 juta orang telah ditipu. Percayalah kesemua 2.3 juta orang ini tidak akan mengundi anda. Percayalah anda akan ditendang keluar. 

So you better mengubah undang-undang dan jadikan-nya satu kesalahan bagi sesiapa pun selain jabatan agama untuk mengutip duit zakat.

Kepada tuan-tuan orang Melayu pula - when are you going to grow up? Sampai bila nak bersifat childish kebudak-budakan? Bila orang datang berbalut kepala, cakap habla yabla dus fi zaboora dan tuan-tuan terus serah duit, serah tanah, kerusi meja dan maybe anak dara sekali kepada mereka. What is wrong with you?  

وَمَا كَانَ لِنَفْسٍ أَن تُؤْمِنَ إِلَّا بِإِذْنِ ٱللَّهِ ۚ وَيَجْعَلُ ٱلرِّجْسَ عَلَى ٱلَّذِينَ لَا يَعْقِلُونَ ١٠٠

Surah 10:100  Dan tiadalah sebarang kuasa bagi seseorang untuk beriman melainkan dengan izin Allah dan Allah menimpakan azab atas orang-orang yang tidak menggunakan akal (   لَا يَعْقِلُونَ ).

So please gunakan akal at all times.   

Iran seizes two vessels in Strait of Hormuz after ship comes under fire

Iran seizes two vessels in Strait of Hormuz after ship comes under fire

The IRGC says the aggression came in response to what it described as the US seizure of an Iranian commercial vessel

Cargo ships in the Gulf, near the Strait of Hormuz, in the United Arab Emirates [Reuters]

By Caolán Magee
Published On 22 Apr 2026


Iran has seized two foreign commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and transferred them to its coast, in a further escalation that comes hours after US President Donald Trump said he would extend a ceasefire with Iran.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the vessels had violated maritime regulations and entered the strategic waterway without coordination, according to Iranian state media.

The seizure follows Wednesday’s incident, in which an Iranian gunboat fired on a container vessel near Oman, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) centre.

The British maritime monitoring agency said the ship’s captain reported that the ship had been approached by a vessel of IRGC before shots were fired.

It “has caused heavy damage to the bridge. No fires or environmental impact reported,” the agency added. No casualties were reported, and all crew members were said to be safe.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly a fifth of the world’s oil supply passes, remains one of the world’s most strategically significant waterways.

Al Jazeera’s Tohid Asadi, reporting from Tehran, said “this is in line with what we heard from the IRGC previously, saying that any passage of ships, vessels or oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz should be with the permission and coordination of the IRGC”.

He said the seizure reflected Iran’s continuing strategy to impose control and authority over maritime traffic through the chokepoint, adding that Iranian officials were now discussing charges and transit fees for vessels using the route.

British maritime security firm Vanguard Tech said the container vessel that came under fire was sailing under a Liberian flag and had been informed it had permission to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important waterways.

Iranian news agency Tasnim, however, said the vessel had ignored warnings issued by Iran’s armed forces.

The incident followed a warning from the IRGC’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters after what it described as the US seizure of an Iranian commercial ship in the Sea of Oman, the IRNA news agency reported.

It accused Washington of violating the ceasefire and carrying out “armed piracy” after allegedly firing on the Iranian vessel and disabling its navigation systems.


Trump extends ceasefire

Trump earlier announced he would delay a planned military attack on Iran after requests from Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Writing on Truth Social, Trump said the decision was made because Iran’s government was “seriously fractured” and needed time to present a unified position.

“We have been asked to hold our Attack on the Country of Iran until such time as their leaders and representatives can come up with a unified proposal,” he wrote.

He added, however, that the US naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz would remain in place and said the military had been ordered to stay “ready and able”.

The announcement marked a shift from comments made a day earlier, when Trump said it was “highly unlikely” he would extend the truce beyond Tuesday.

‘Positive and negative signals’ from Tehran

Tohid Asadi added that Iranian officials were sending mixed messages over the ceasefire and the prospects for negotiations.

“Tehran is saying they won’t negotiate under imposed terms and conditions … when we compare the initial 10-point and 15-point proposals by the Iranians and Americans, we can understand that the two sides are poles apart,” he said.

“The atmosphere is also clouded by this mistrust in Tehran towards the United States, as well as the simultaneous military rhetoric related to a potential failed negotiation … It is a warning that another round of confrontation may be ahead.”

He said Iran still viewed the Strait of Hormuz as a key source of leverage in any talks.

“It’s trying to exercise authority over the ships and vessels transiting this strategically significant chokepoint,” he said.

Asadi added that Iranian officials framed their regional position as based on mutual security. “Iranians are saying that the basis of their foreign policy behaviour, particularly when it comes to Israel, is security for all versus security for none,” he said.

Rohingya influx in Pandan Perdana a public safety concern, says rep

Rohingya influx in Pandan Perdana a public safety concern, says rep


2 hours ago
Anne Muhammad


Teratai assemblyman Yew Jia Haur wants the Selangor government to address the matter before it leads to inter-community tensions

Teratai assemblyman Yew Jia Haur said the rising number of homeless Rohingya in Pandan Perdana can no longer be treated as a mere social issue. (Facebook pic)

SHAH ALAM: Teratai assemblyman Yew Jia Haur has described the rising number of homeless Rohingya in Pandan Perdana as a serious public safety crisis that can no longer be treated as a mere social issue.

Debating a motion at the Selangor state assembly today, the DAP assemblyman said their presence over the past one to two years had affected cleanliness, safety, and the well-being of residents.

He claimed that some were living on sidewalks and in parking areas, and setting up illegal settlements between commercial buildings and recreational areas.


Others were also reported to have trespassed into vacant premises to use them as shelters without permission.

“What is unfortunate is that their presence is not just about seeking shelter. It has also caused various disturbances that test the patience of local residents,” he said.

“The issue of cleanliness has become a state concern, with rubbish being dumped indiscriminately, foul smell filling back lanes, and the reckless use of public facilities without regard for local sensitivities.”

Yew also said there were reports of aggressive behaviour and illegal activities.

He claimed that local residents faced difficulties lodging complaints with authorities such as the immigration and social welfare departments, with cases often ending without resolution as each agency cited jurisdictional limitations.

“To this day, no government agency appears to have taken decisive action to fully address this issue. It is as if we are passing the buck while residents of Pandan Perdana continue to suffer,” he said.


Yew said the issue had also affected property values, disrupted local businesses, and raised concerns about the safety of women and children.

He urged the state government to take proactive steps to address the matter before inter-community tensions arose due to enforcement failures.

He also questioned the actions of some UNHCR cardholders who, he alleged, used the document as a “shield” to live as homeless individuals in public areas.

He said UNHCR refugee status should not be used as a justification to violate local by-laws or trespass on public property.


Yesterday, another DAP assemblyman said foreign nationals residing in the Kesidang state constituency in Melaka, particularly Rohingya individuals, were not allowed to organise events or celebrations in open areas to avoid disputes or disturbances to local residents.

Kesidang assemblyman Allex Seah advised the Rohingya community who still wanted to host events in the area to do so at restaurants or halls.

He said a previous community event held by Rohingya residents at Kampung Limbongan caused discomfort and disrupted harmony among local residents because of the loud music and the presence of groups from outside the village.

Ex-MB: N Sembilan chieftains sacking of ruler valid, but amicable solution needed

Ex-MB: N Sembilan chieftains sacking of ruler valid, but amicable solution needed

N Faizal Ghazali
Published: Apr 22, 2026 9:01 AM
Updated: 1:46 PM


INTERVIEW | Negeri Sembilan’s Undang Yang Empat’s move to depose Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir as Yang di-Pertuan Besar is valid, opined former menteri besar Rais Yatim.

However, Rais, who is also a scholar of adat perpatih - the Minangkabau customary law - suggested that the royal crisis be resolved amicably so as not to tarnish the customs and the names of any quarter.

He explained that the chieftains or undangs of Sungai Ujong, Jelebu, Rembau, and Johol - who hold the power to appoint the Yang di-Pertuan Besar - also have the right to depose the state ruler under Article 10 of the Negeri Sembilan constitution.

He noted that the four undangs must meet two conditions: first, there must be a complete report; second, the alleged offences must be listed.

“After that, the document can be sealed, and the customary narrative carried out, and at the bottom, the menteri besar must sign as a witness.

“If the menteri besar refuses to sign as a witness, he may be considered negligent in fulfilling the Negeri Sembilan constitution.

“The Yang di-Pertuan Besar cannot exist without the Undang Yang Empat.

“If they no longer support the Yang di-Pertuan Besar due to any wrongdoing or matters that affect reputation, the execution of duties, or customs, then the Yang di-Pertuan Besar may be deposed by the Undang Yang Empat (with those two conditions),” he said in an interview with Malaysiakini in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

The clash between the Undang Yang Empat and Tuanku Muhriz erupted on April 17 when the Negeri Sembilan Council of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar and the Ruling Chiefs (Dewan Keadilan dan Undang) was reported to have accepted a decision by Sungai Ujong nobles to sack its undang Mubarak Thahak over purported transgressions.

Mubarak and the other three undangs - Maarof Mat Rashad (Jelebu), Muhammad Abdullah (Johol), and Abdul Rahim Yasin (Rembau) - then retaliated on April 19 by declaring that Tuanku Muhriz was deposed and naming Tunku Nadzaruddin Tuanku Ja’afar as his replacement.

This was after they allegedly launched their own investigation into Tuanku Muhriz on March 5 for alleged transgressions in his royal duties. They deemed the unspecified transgressions to have been committed deliberately, thus besmirching the royal institution.

However, Menteri Besar Aminuddin Harun said the chieftains’ proclamation was invalid, due to Mubarak being sacked earlier.

Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Aminuddin Harun


The Negeri Sembilan state constitution, however, states that a decision can be made by at least three undangs, or by however many are alive at the time of the decision.

Call for dialogue and review

Rais said that while the decision by the undangs was valid, he nevertheless recommended that the state administration return to the root of the issue.

The Bersatu leader also called on all parties to review the next steps after the Undang Yang Empat announced the deposition of the ruler and named his successor.

“This is the right of the Undang Yang Empat; we will not interfere in that matter.

“The menteri besar, whether he likes it or not, given that the meeting fulfilled the requirements of Article 10(i) and (ii), must act as a witness to the document, which is mandatory,” he said.

That document is constitutional and cannot be taken lightly, he added.

“With such a decision, it is hoped that those administering the Negeri Sembilan government will return to the starting point and review what needs to be done.

“In adat, there is also ‘sorong parang, tarik parang’ (pushing a blade forward, pulling a blade back, meaning mutual provocation), but something that has been sliced can be rejoined based on the will of the majority among the Undang Yang Empat, and the royal parties can reach a consensus again.

Former Negeri Sembilan menteri besar Rais Yatim

“This should not be done as a ‘one cut and finished’ action, because ‘flowing water cannot be severed by cutting’, so find a way to return to the council, gather all the undangs, and discuss it there amicably as required by adat so that what has happened can be softened and resolved.

“This is my suggestion if we want to restore the dignity of adat; otherwise, Article 10 will proceed, and the names involved will be tarnished,” he said.

Required conditions not met

Rais, who was the Negeri Sembilan menteri besar from 1978 to 1982, also opined that Mubarak’s dismissal as undang was invalid.

This is because, according to him, the views expressed by the members of the Negeri Sembilan Council of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar and the Ruling Chiefs were not adopted; instead, the decree or speech of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar was directly interpreted by the menteri besar as a final decision.

“I say that the decision is not final and not valid due to the absence of sufficient conditions. First, the views of those present, such as the tunku besar of Tampin, the datuk syahbandar of Sungai Ujong, and the undang of Johol, were not accepted.

“The three of them objected and advised not to dismiss (Mubarak) yet because the authority body in Sungai Ujong had not made a decision; only one segment, known as ibu soko, made the decision.

“The customary authorities in all luak (districts) are the datuk lembaga who appoint an undang according to lineage, conditions, and the rights of each perut (subclan).

“Therefore, when the menteri besar directly interpreted the speech and wishes of the council’s chair, namely the Yang di-Pertuan Besar, as final and announced the termination of the undang of Sungai Ujong, it was in fact a dismissal, and such a dismissal cannot be made by the council,” Rais said.

From left: Undang Yang Empat Maarof Mat Rashad (Jelebu), Mubarak Thahak (Sungai Ujong), Muhammad Abdullah (Johol), and Abdul Rahim Yasin (Rembau)

He said the Council of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar and the Ruling Chiefs is only an advisory body, and that any decision to depose an undang must come from within the chieftain’s district.

Rais added that the council has no authority whatsoever to dismiss any of the Undang Yang Empat; they can only be removed or appointed under Article 14 of the state constitution.

“The question here is why the menteri besar interpreted the meeting decree as final. Another factor is that a meeting is not valid until it is confirmed at the next meeting.

“So before the next meeting, the other undang must attend; a decision has been made. In other words, the decree of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar at the council meeting on April 17 remains pending until the next meeting - only then can it be finalised,” he said.


Possible escalation to court

Rais also emphasised the practice in Negeri Sembilan, which has two hierarchies: the Yang di-Pertuan Besar as the reigning ruler, alongside the Undang Yang Empat, who cannot be sidelined.

“Their (the undangs’) views must be consulted in any decision; thus, there are two royal segments,” he added.

Rais - who has been studying adat perpatih since 1963 - described the dispute as one of the most difficult constitutional crises in Negeri Sembilan and an unfortunate development.

“This is because adat itself is a source of peace, beauty of language, harmony, courtesy, and so on.

“But when disputes involve practitioners of adat, government authorities, the Yang di-Pertuan Besar, and co-rulers among the Undang Yang Empat, confusion arises as each uses their power and position without referring to what should actually be done under the law and customary practice,” he said.

When asked how far the Negeri Sembilan royal crisis might reach before a resolution, Rais expected the conflict might end up in court.

“I think it will reach (the courts). There may be parts the court rejects and parts it allows. But before that, I hope the council and the Undang Yang Empat play their roles, and that role can actually be advised by the menteri besar.

“Right now, he (Aminuddin) is seen as taking sides, appearing to favour the royal party (the Yang di-Pertuan Besar). So now he must appear fair. That is up to the menteri besar; I have carried that burden before - it is not easy,” he said.

Rightist Akmal sought for reaction after NGO top brass nabbed for alleged RM230m zakat fund swindling

Rightist Akmal sought for reaction after NGO top brass nabbed for alleged RM230m zakat fund swindling

SUCH is the shout out from netizens following the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Selangor branch arrest of two company directors and an NGO deputy chairman over RM230 mil zakat (tithe) fund misappropriation yesterday (April 21).


Additionally, posh cars in the likes of Porsche, Mercedes, Lexus, Range Rover and Honda Civic Type R were seized along with properties worth RM11 mil while 33 bank accounts holding RM120 mil were being frozen.

According to a Bernama report, two men in their 50s and 60s were arrested yesterday (April 21) evening in an operation around the Klang Valley while the third man in his 50s was detained at about 2pm when he turned up to give a statement at the Selangor MACC office.

Preliminary investigations pointed to the trio believed to have conspired in the offence between 2018 and 2024. The NGO’s deputy chairman is believed to have transferred RM230 mil into his company’s account for investment and personal purposes.

Investigations are focusing on elements of public fund misappropriation as the NGO received public donations to assist those in need.

According to Selangor MACC director Mohd Azwan Ramli who confirmed the arrests, the case is being investigated under the MACC Act 2009 with all suspects expected to be brought to the Shah Alam Magistrate’s Court this morning (April 22) for remand proceedings.

Given the ‘juicy’ nature of the case, it is little wonder that detractors tend to remember the fiery UMNO Youth chief Datuk Muhamad Akmal Saleh, the self-proclaimed staunch defender of race and religion.

“Where is AKMAL? Any comments or hide like Mouse,” jibed one commenter to the NST Online Facebook post while another wondered “where’re Firdaus (controversial Muslim convert preacher Firdaus Wong Wai Hung), Akmal and the gang?”

NST Online

20 hours ago

[IN PICS] MACC arrests two company directors and an NGO deputy chairman over RM230 million zakat fund misappropriation, seizing Porsche, Mercedes, Range Rover, Honda Civic Type R, properties worth RM11 million, and freezing 33 bank accounts holding RM120 million.

https://bit.ly/3QAAzrI

508

265

161

Even Muslims were dumbfounded with the misappropriation of zakat funds which are supposedly meant to provide financial relief to less fortunate Muslims.

Social media influencer Aliff Ahmad summed up the pretence of his dishonest brethren who abuse the religion for their selfish gain by insinuating that the public has to be careful with those who earn a living by being involved in “NGOs, doing zakat business, claiming to work for Allah or simply, was born rich”.

The FB post by the co-founder of SCRUT.my (vehicle history report service) led to curiosity as to “who is the NGO” to which many suspected it to be “Ikram Hulu Selangor” which is a branch of Pertubuhan IKRAM Malaysia – an NGO dedicated to dakwah (Islamic outreach), education and community welfare.

Isu Dakwaan Dana Zakat: IKRAM Beri Kerjasama Penuh, Status Keahlian Individu Terlibat Direhatkan

Pertubuhan IKRAM Malaysia (IKRAM) mengambil maklum laporan berhubung penahanan oleh Suruhanjaya Pencegahan Rasuah Malaysia (SPRM) terhadap tiga (3) individu di Hulu Selangor yang disyaki terlibat dalam siasatan berkaitan pengurusan dana zakat.

IKRAM memandang serius perkara ini dan menegaskan bahawa integriti serta amanah merupakan asas utama yang sentiasa menjadi keutamaan dalam ...

See more

933

477

269

Engineer and social media influencer Zainuddin Omar wondered if this is the case “that was exposed by Minda Merdeka/Pseudoscience Watch” (an online advocacy group recognised for exposing scams, fraudulent activities and individuals abusing religion or public funds).

“If that’s true, how can a Muslim embezzle zakat money? Aren’t they afraid of retribution in the afterlife?” asked the travel writer since 1978.

Adakah ini kes yang dibongkarkan oleh Minda Merdeka (PW)?

Kalau benar, bagaimana sanggup seorang muslim menyeleweng duit zakat? Tidak takutkah pembalasan akhirat?

****

...See more

1.1K

203

133

He added in a subsequent post: “Rich people who earn their money with their own sweat will not buy 18 luxury cars like this. Only those who obtain money through illegal means would behave in such manner.” – April 22, 2026

Zainuddin Omar

19 hours ago

Orang kaya yang cari duit dengan keringat sendiri tak akan beli 18 biji kereta mewah seperti ini.

Hanya mereka yang dapat duit terpijak berperangai begini.

1.9K

258

131