Wednesday, May 20, 2026

DAP rep acknowledges Selangor ruler’s call to uphold Rukun Negara





DAP rep acknowledges Selangor ruler’s call to uphold Rukun Negara


Seri Kembangan assemblyman Wong Siew Ki says she humbly upholds Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah’s decree for elected representatives to better understand the principles


DAP assemblyman Wong Siew Ki said the principles of the Rukun Negara serve as her ‘guide, inspiration, and foundation’ in carrying out the trust placed in her and serving the people. (Bernama pic)


PETALING JAYA: DAP’s Wong Siew Ki today responded to the decree issued by Selangor’s Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, about a day after the ruler called on her, as well as ex-DAP leader Ronnie Liu, to better understand the Rukun Negara and respect the royal institution.

In a Facebook post, the Seri Kembangan assemblyman said she “humbly upholds” Sultan Sharafuddin’s decree.

“As a representative, the principles of the Rukun Negara always serve as my guide, inspiration, and foundation in carrying out the trust placed in me and serving the people.


“I deeply respect and always adhere to these principles in all my actions, prioritising the interests of the people of Selangor and Malaysia,” she said.

Yesterday, the Selangor Royal Office said in a Facebook post that Sultan Sharafuddin had paid a visit to Dataran Selangor in Shah Alam to view the Rukun Negara monument in front of the Selangor state flagpole.

The sultan called on all of the state’s elected representatives, particularly Wong and Liu, to visit Dataran Selangor twice a month to read and understand the meaning of the principles inscribed on the monument.

Controversy previously erupted over Wong and Liu’s response to the sultan’s call for a complete end to pig farming in the state.

Wong attracted brickbats with her proposal for a modern, closed-system pig farming industry in Selangor, while Liu urged dissatisfied pig farmers to consider applying for a judicial review.

MORE TO COME


***


Respect, allegiance and 'face' have been dedicated to Tuanku - most likely all may be forgiven


Umno sec-gen slams ‘arrogant, rude’ Pua over comments on monarchy






Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki says the ex-MP disrespected the royal institution


Umno secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said ‘ridiculing’ the sultan’s decree does not constitute freedom of speech.



PETALING JAYA: Umno secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki today hit out at DAP’s Tony Pua over the former MP’s comments on the monarchy and its decrees.

In a Facebook post, Asyraf said Pua portrayed himself as being well-versed in the Federal Constitution but still disrespected the royal institution.

“Ridiculing the sultan’s decree isn’t freedom of speech. It’s just rude,” he said, accusing Pua of arrogance.


The former Damansara MP wrote yesterday that the powers of the monarch were strictly limited to defined aspects such as Malay customs, Islam and constitutional roles such as the appointment of menteris besar, and approval for the dissolution of state assemblies.

Pua said Malaysians did not “live in a system whereby the monarch can issue binding decrees which legislate all aspects of our lives”.


His comments followed a call by Selangor’s Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah for DAP assemblyman Wong Siew Ki and former DAP leader Ronnie Liu to better understand the Rukun Negara and respect the royal institution.

The sultan also reminded elected representatives of their responsibility to uphold the principles of the Rukun Negara and preserve decorum in public life.

The statement came amid controversy surrounding Wong and Liu’s response to the sultan’s call for a complete end to pig farming in the state.

Wong attracted brickbats with her proposal for a modern, closed pig farming system in Selangor, while Liu urged dissatisfied pig farmers to consider filing a judicial review.

Liu, a former Selangor executive councillor, was a DAP member for 41 years, serving as a member of its central executive committee for several terms.

In a separate statement, Bersatu Youth chief Hilman Idham said Pua was deliberately attempting to create polemics that could threaten harmony.

“I am confident that DAP will continue to belittle the royal institution,” he added.


***


I'm afraid Asyraf has been correct, that "Pua portrayed himself as being well-versed in the Federal Constitution but still" stated words to the effect of "disrespect[ing] the royal institution."

Technically-legally Pua might be correct but in Malaysia everyone has to tiptoe through the tulips when commenting on the Royals' proclamations, statements or fatwa's. Alas, there is a certain protocol which have to be, nay, MUST BE observed - unless of course you are Mahathir, wakakaka. Yes, give Tuanku 'water-face' lah.

Not happy? Not Mahathir? Frig off from this country lah, wakakaka.





How Rafizi-led ‘Bersama’ could disrupt Malaysia’s political calculus






How Rafizi-led ‘Bersama’ could disrupt Malaysia’s political calculus



Analysts don't see 'Bersama' as making much inroads besides perhaps splintering votes for Pakatan Harapan. — Picture by Raymond Manuel

Wednesday, 20 May 2026 7:00 AM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, May 20 — Malaysian politics again faces a major realignment following the dramatic takeover of Parti Bersama Malaysia (Bersama) by former federal ministers Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.

The duo vacated their respective parliamentary seats effective Monday, having exited the ruling PKR following nearly a year of tension after both were defeated at last May’s party polls.

Both former PKR leaders alleged the elections were marred by irregularities.

While Bersama positions itself as an independent, policy-driven alternative, analysts said its entry introduces a volatile variable at the upcoming elections.


Three analysts explain how Bersama could alter Malaysia’s political board:

It could split the urban liberal-centrist votes

The immediate consequence of Bersama going solo could be the fragmentation of the country’s liberal and centrist voter base, said Shazwan Mustafa Kamal, director of Vriens & Partners, a government affairs and public policy consultancy.


Urban, multi-ethnic, and centrist constituencies are typically bedrock seats of the ruling Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition but since Bersama is effectively a PKR splinter party, it would likely target these exact demographics, possibly triggering a classic vote-splitting scenario.

“I think the biggest disruption caused by Bersama would be vote splitting among urban centrist voters. If they split this base, would it be possible they could hand victory to the conservative opposition in marginal seats? I think this could be a possibility,” Shazwan said.

To mitigate this, analysts suggest Bersama will likely be selective and micro-target specific urban profiles. Rafizi and Nik Nazmi had already said they would defend the Pandan and Setiawangsa seats, so it’s more than likely other party candidates would vie for seats with similar profiles, such as Subang.

“What we know now is Bersama is definitely contesting in Pandan and Setiawangsa, and possibly Subang. So they will likely aim for seats with a similar profile,” said Adib Zalkapli, managing director of Viewfinder, a global affairs consultancy.

Bersama unlikely to be vanguard of a strong ‘third force’, for now

The emergence of yet another party championing centrist politics have spurred hope for a third force capable of uprooting the two-party system. But Ibrahim Suffian, who heads Merdeka Centre, a respected pollster, said this is unlikely.

“If you look at Malaysian political history never has a so-called third force succeeded unless they align with a larger, more established coalition,” he said, noting that voting trends over the last few decades have consistently shown little public confidence in small break-off outfits.

Even PKR itself, which is technically an Umno splinter party, had to collaborate with more established parties like PAS and DAP to stand a chance. Even then it won just five seats initially,” the analyst added.

Ibrahim said the case of Malaysia United Democratic Alliance (Muda) corroborates the trend, despite being led by the popular former minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman.

There is potential to be a ‘kingmaker’

Given current trends, no single coalition or party is projected to win an outright parliamentary majority in the next General Election. Political pundits generally predict the next government will almost certainly have to be cobbled together through post-election negotiations once again.

And in a hung parliament, a five to ten seat bloc would theoretically turn Bersama into a crucial swing vote required to break any deadlock, although Rafizi’s launch speech strongly implied that Bersama intends to maintain strict independence and is positioning itself to sit strictly on the crossbenches.

Still, this independence could give Bersama some leverage to dictate policy concessions in exchange for confidence and supply.

“They could have some leverage if the matter involves a deadlock (in Parliament) and a deciding swing vote is required. But the biggest kingmakers in any coalition moving forward for now would be Sabah and Sarawak,” said Shazwan.


***


At a time when 'Progressives' are facing pressure from the ultra-Right, Rafizi has to satisfy his personal ego and split the 'Progressives' camp 😡😡😡


UAE says drone targeting its nuclear plant was launched from Iraq





UAE says drone targeting its nuclear plant was launched from Iraq



The Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the United Arab Emirates remained safe after a drone strike caused a fire outside its inner perimeter, authorities said. — AFP pic

Wednesday, 20 May 2026 10:28 AM MYT


  • UAE says six drones launched in from Iraq in 48 hours
  • Defence ministry says all but one were intercepted
  • UN envoy highlights attacks ‘by one state ‌and its proxies’


May 20 — The United Arab Emirates said yesterday that six drones had been launched against it from Iraq in the past 48 hours, including one that caused a fire at a nuclear power plant in the Gulf state on Sunday.

The UAE’s defence ministry said in a statement that it had intercepted all but one of the drones. It said three in total had been targeting the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, which is the Arab world’s first commercial nuclear power station.


The drone that penetrated the UAE’s defences hit an electric generator outside the inner perimeter of the plant, the ministry said.

After that drone strike, the UAE’s Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation said the plant remained safe and that no radioactive material had been released due to the attack.


Emirati officials have said the UAE has the full right to respond to such “terrorist attacks”.


Iraq is home to powerful Iranian-backed militia groups which have claimed attacks against “enemy bases in Iraq and the region” during the US-Israeli war on Iran.

Later at the United Nations in New York, the UAE ambassador to the world body, Mohamed Abushahab, told a Security Council meeting called to discuss the attack on the Barakah plant that it was not an isolated incident.


He did not identify a perpetrator, but said it occurred “in a wider regional context, in which persistent cross-border attacks by one state and its proxies have pushed the region toward heightened escalation and dangerous confrontation.”

Russia and China, which have long been supportive of Iran, criticised the attack at the Security Council, with China’s envoy expressing “great concern” and Russia’s UN ambassador saying that strikes on peaceful nuclear facilities in any country were “categorically unacceptable.”

The head of the UN’s International Atomic Energy Agency, Raphael Grossi, told the meeting the attack threatened the nuclear safety of the UAE and caused great concern throughout the Gulf.

“In case of an attack on the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, a direct hit could result in a very high release of radioactivity to the environment,” he said.

“A hit that disabled the lines supplying electrical power to the plant could increase the likelihood of its reactors’ cores melting, which could result in a high release of radioactivity.”

While hostilities during the Iran conflict have scaled down since a ceasefire came into effect in April, drones have been launched from Iraq towards Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

Saudi Arabia said on Sunday it had intercepted three drones coming from Iraqi airspace and that it would take any necessary measures in response to efforts to violate its sovereignty and security.

Iraq said its air defences had not detected any drones being launched from its airspace. — Reuters



***


Shailoks have a (unauthorised) covert base in Iraq


Indonesia minister denies letter he signed with Pete Hegseth gives air access to US military






Indonesia minister denies letter he signed with Pete Hegseth gives air access to US military



Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, accompanied by Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces General Agus Subiyanto, and Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force Air Chief Marshal Tonny Harjono, perform a blessing ceremony at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base in Jakarta on May 18, 2026. — AFP pic

Tuesday, 19 May 2026 2:27 PM MYT


JAKARTA, May 19 — Indonesia’s defence minister said on Tuesday that he had signed ‌a letter of intent last month with ​US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth on granting US military aircraft access to Indonesian airspace, but ‌said no commitment was made.


The letter of intent signed in ​Washington mentioned respecting each country’s territorial integrity, the need for a mechanism if Indonesia agreed to airspace access, and respect for local laws, Defence Minister ​Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin told a parliamentary hearing.


“We made not a single commitment with the US on airspace. We uphold the constitution and our national interests,” Sjafrie said.

The issue of overflight access created controversy in Indonesia last month. The ‌foreign ministry warned the defence ministry that the proposal ⁠to give the US military ‘blanket’ permission ⁠to fly over Indonesian territory could ⁠risk entangling Jakarta in potential South ⁠China Sea ⁠conflicts, Reuters reported.


Sjafrie said Hegseth had made the request for the overflight access last year during an Association of Southeast ⁠Asian Nations meeting. Hegseth had cited emergency reasons when he asked for the access, Sjafrie said without providing further details.


A request for comment was sent to the Pentagon. There was no immediate reply, and when the request was sent from ⁠Jakarta it was early morning Washington time and outside business hours.

After Hegseth and Sjafrie met in Washington last ⁠month, the Pentagon said the two countries had established a major ⁠defence cooperation partnership ⁠and listed a number of ways in which they would build ​defence ties.


Sjafrie said the partnership ​includes the modernisation of Indonesia’s military, ‌but “it does not mention any military equipment”. ​He said the US ​would help train Indonesian soldiers. — Reuters

Tuesday, May 19, 2026

Malaysian government should close down Mossad cells operating in Malaysia after Israeli abduction of activists in flotilla travelling to Gaza


Murray Hunter
May 19, 2026



Malaysian government should close down Mossad cells operating in Malaysia after Israeli abduction of activists in flotilla travelling to Gaza






Twenty-four Malaysians in the Global Sumud flotilla 2.0 have been abducted by Israeli security forces in international waters off the Gaza coastline late on Monday night. They have been taken to Israel and are in captivity by the Israeli security forces.

Its now time for the Malaysian intelligence forces and Special Branch to close up and get rid of Mossad intelligence cells operating inside Malaysia.

There is a long record of Israeli Mossad operations in Kuala Lumpur. On April 21, 2018, Palestinian academic and Hamas-linked electrical engineer Fadi al-Batsh was shot dead in a drive-by motorcycle attack while heading to morning prayers in a Kuala Lumpur neighborhood. He was hit by about 10 bullets. His family, Hamas, and Malaysian officials accused Mossad of carrying it out. Malaysian authorities described the attackers as possibly linked to a foreign intelligence service.

Reports indicated al-Batsh was allegedly involved in acquiring technology and expertise for Hamas’s military wing the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades. Israel has not officially confirmed involvement, as is standard for such operations.

In late September 2022, the Malaysian media reported a botched operation where suspected Mossad-linked local operatives tried to kidnap two Palestinian men (described as computer experts with alleged Hamas ties) in Kuala Lumpur. One man was abducted, beaten, and interrogated, reportedly via video link with Mossad handler about Hamas technical capabilities before police rescued him.





Malaysian police arrested several local suspects, where reports mentioned up to 11 in a cell, who were allegedly recruited and trained by Mossad. The cell was accused of spying on sites like airports and government facilities, plus tracking Palestinians.

Malaysian police arrested an Israeli man identified as Shalom Avitan in a Kuala Lumpur hotel with multiple handguns and ammunition. Authorities suspected possible Mossad links or a covert operation, though he claimed it was related to a personal/family or underworld dispute. Police expressed skepticism about his story.

The prime minister Anwar Ibrahim and officials have publicly stated that Malaysia is a target for Mossad and other foreign intelligence services due to its strong pro-Palestinian stance. This is especially the case, sine the GAZA genocide began.

It is believed that Mossad has a presence in Singapore, although this is denied. Thus, Singapore could easily act as a ‘step-off centre’ for operations in Malaysia.

Its time for Malaysian authorities to work hard and eradicate any Mossad presence in Malaysia as retribution for Israeli authorities taking 24 Malaysian hostages from the Global Sumud flotilla 2.0. Just watching Mossad’s presence is not enough. It’s time for action.

The Malaysian government at cabinet level gave the Israeli owned company Zim Lines permission to dock in Malaysia back in 2002. Zim was operating from Port Klang until December 2023, when the public became aware of it. The government is also using Israeli equipment and software packages for security and ease dropping purposes in the security services.

Its time for Malaysia to cut all links with Israeli intelligence and security products immediately. No Malaysian banks should be permitted to correspond with Bank Hapoalim or Bank Leumi. Using Israeli products in the nation’s security apparatus is a national security threat.


Shooters And Motives Revealed In San Diego Mosque Shooting That Killed Three









by Tyler Durden
Tuesday, May 19, 2026 - 10:15 PM


The two young alleged gunmen who descended upon a San Diego Islamic facility on Monday -- killing three men and themselves -- have been identified, along with early indications of their motives. Police sources have told multiple outlets that 17-year-old Cain Clark and 18-year-old Caleb Velasquez -- driven by hate -- scrawled racist themes on their weapons and carried a gas can emblazoned with a Nazi SS sticker. One of them left a suicide note emphasizing "racial pride."


The attack was carried out on the Islamic Center of San Diego, which is roughly eight miles north of downtown and is home to the county's largest mosque, and Bright Horizon Academy, a K-12 Islamic school. While the shooting began around 11:40 am, one of the shooter's mothers contacted police at 9:42 am. She told them her son was missing, that he was suicidal, and that her firearms and her car were gone. She also reported that he was with a companion, both of them dressed in camouflage clothing. Police tried to track them down using license plate readers, at one point responding to a possible matching plate near a shopping mall. Other officers were dispatched to a high school that one of the alleged shooters attended.

Police say that, after leaving the Islamic center, the alleged young murderers fired shots at a landscaper two blocks away, with one of the rounds grazing his helmet. He wasn't wounded. Soon after, the two were found dead inside a white BMW another block away from the Islamic center, having apparently died of self-inflicted gunshots. Inside the vehicle, investigators found some type of anti-Islamic writing. In addition, the BMW contained a gasoline can that had a Nazi SS sticker on it, and police say unspecified "hate speech" was written on their firearms. They haven't described the weapons yet.



The body of one of the shooters lies to the left of the BMW, and a gas can adorned with a Nazi SS symbol sits nearby.



Clark wrestled for Madison High School, which is only a mile from the Islamic center, but never attended there in person, instead enrolling in the San Diego Unified School District's iHigh Virtual Academy. He was set to graduate this month. Outside their home, Clark's grandparents told CNN that he had been "a good kid," with the incident leaving them shocked. "We're trying to process this," they said, adding that they were "very sorry for what happened." No biographical details about Velasquez have emerged yet; nor have any photos of him been shared by reliable sources.

Police have thus far refused to share specifics about the hate speech associated with the slogans on the weapons, the writing in the car and the suicide note. "There was definitely hate rhetoric that was involved," Wah said at a press conference, suggesting that more information may be revealed later. "There was generalized hate rhetoric and speech," but no specific threat to "any facility or any place."


Police haven't identified the shooters' weapons, but maybe our ZeroHedge commenters can crowd-source a partial answer from this image (Anadolu via Getty Images)


One of three dead men was security guard Amin Abdullah, who's being credited with curtailing the carnage. "I think it’s fair to say his actions were heroic," San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl told reporters. "Undoubtedly, he saved lives today." He was a father of eight children. An online fundraiser rapidly raised more than $1.2 million and counting.



"My community is mourning," said Taha Hassane, the director an imam of the Islamic center. "The religious intolerance and the hate that unfortunately exists in our nation is unprecedented."


Should PKR purge Rafizi's allies now?












Wong Chin Huat
Published: May 19, 2026 1:58 PM
Updated: 3:58 PM




COMMENT | Political divorce is hard to be amicable, especially under a First-Past-The-Post (FPTP) electoral system. Both sides have the incentives to compete for the same vote base, like parents competing for exclusive custody of their children.

One rare exception was Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku’s pullout from Gabungan Rakyat Sabah before the last Sabah state election.

The Anwar Ibrahim-Rafizi Ramli divorce is inevitably unamicable. But the degree of mess can still differ vastly, depending on how both sides play it out.

In launching Parti Bersama Malaysia (Bersama), Rafizi has expectedly been scratchy in criticising PKR and Pakatan Harapan. Expectedly, PKR and Harapan want to hit back. Their best revenge is, of course, smashing Bersama in the general election.

Our FPTP system has not been very kind to new multiethnic parties – even as part of Barisan Alternative, PKR won only five (2.6 percent) out of 193 seats despite winning 11.5 percent of votes in its debut election in 1999.

But Bersama has the potential to cause defeats for PKR and Harapan even if it does not win.

Retaliation and legitimacy in public eyes

That’s why PKR is keen to cause damage to Rafizi and his fellow former PKR member Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, who quit Parliament on Monday and PKR on Tuesday with the ex-economy minister.


Ex-ministers Rafizi Ramli and Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad (left)


The party is also keen on taking action against six of Rafizi’s parliamentary allies who attended the Bersama launch: Wong Chen, Lee Chean Chung, Rodziah Ismail, S Kesavan, Zahir Hassan, and Baktiar Wan Chik.

What real options of retaliation does PKR have on its menu? This goes back not just to the constitutional and legal constraints, but to what the public would perceive as illegitimate on Rafizi’s side.

It is obvious after the PKR party election that divorce was inevitable. Anwar won’t nominate Rafizi’s camp to defend their constituencies, and the latter would likely contest against PKR.


On Rafizi and Nik Nazmi

What can be illegitimate on Rafizi’s side? The worst is for the rebels to stay back in PKR, yet lead the new party. The anti-hopping law – Article 49A of the Federal Constitution – exempts parliamentarians who are sacked by their party.

However, it allows parties to cause parliamentarians to automatically lose their party membership and trigger a seat vacancy. In other words, individual parties can tighten the anti-hopping law if they prefer.

DAP, Amanah, Umno and Bersatu did so, such that their lawmakers would “cease to be party members” if they disobeyed the party’s written instructions on voting or government formation. PKR did not amend its party constitution similarly.

More interestingly, in the case of the Bersatu 6, the Dewan Rakyat speaker dismissed the binding power of the party constitution on lawmakers’ conduct to trigger Article 49A.

Rafizi and Nik Nazmi could have emulated the Bersatu 6 to “lead” Bersama while remaining as PKR parliamentarians.

Both, however, chose to return the mandate to voters by resigning from Parliament first – an option provided by Article 51 of the Federal Constitution - before resigning from the party. This leaves no room for Article 49A to be triggered.

PKR hints at filing a legal suit against Rafizi and Nik Nazmi for breaking their pledge not to defect from the party. I do not know how PKR can win the case against Article 51 in the court of law.

What is more certain is that Rafizi and Nik Nazmi would first win the battle hands down in the court of public opinion.




Punishing two rebels who honourably resign to vacate their seats would be a moral boost for Bersama to win public sympathy, the most generous gift a party can give to its splinter.

There is no by-election for PKR to wrest back the seats only because Parliament has run past three years, and the duo’s resignation does not affect the government’s majority.

Before former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad amended Article 54(1) in 1993, by-elections could be held up until the last six months of Parliament’s term.


On Rafizi’s allies


Rafizi has many allies in the PKR backbench, six of whom were at the Bersama launch, and even its frontbench.

Most of his allies are likely to defend their seats under Bersama against PKR. So, PKR’s fury against them is perfectly understandable.

And if you are Rodziah’s rival in PKR’s Ampang division, it makes perfect sense for you to call for her resignation. With her seat vacated, you would be able to position yourself as PKR’s caretaker for the constituency and set up your service centre.


Ampang MP Rodziah Ismail


But would this serve the interests of Anwar, PKR, Harapan and the Madani government? Beware of what you wish for. If public sympathy is high, Rafizi’s allies may just follow in the duo’s footsteps.

The biggest stake for Anwar is the two constitutional bills on the PM’s term limit and the separation of the attorney-general and public prosecutor roles.

Madani’s parliamentary majority, including the Bersatu 6, was 153 on Sunday, 151 on Monday, and would fall to 146, below the two-thirds threshold of 148, if six more seats are vacated.

That means Anwar would have to strike a deal with Perikatan Nasional to get the constitutional bills passed. But PN may just abstain again, simply to deny Anwar two achievements in institutional reforms.

And here is the trap. If Anwar fails to deliver these two key institutional reforms, it would only strengthen Bersama’s case that Harapan and Madani have failed in reforms.


PM and PKR president Anwar Ibrahim


This is, in fact, an incentive for Rafizi’s allies to resign before June, or to find grounds to abstain from or reject the constitutional amendment bills.

Ironically, it is in the interest of Anwar, PKR, Harapan and Madani not to push Rafizi’s allies into a corner. Anwar’s camp should instead build up public expectation and pressure for Rafizi’s allies to stay and support the constitutional amendments in June.

Yes, politics is not so straightforward, and it can be a good thing, as in this case.



WONG CHIN HUAT is a political scientist at Sunway University and a member of Project Stability and Accountability for Malaysia (Projek Sama).


Ronnie Liu backs Sultan’s Rukun Negara call, urges politicians to return to nation-building principles





Former Selangor executive councillor Ronnie Liu Tian Khiew has expressed support for the Sultan of Selangor’s call for politicians to reconnect with the spirit of the Rukun Negara. - Social media pic, May 19, 2026


Ronnie Liu backs Sultan’s Rukun Negara call, urges politicians to return to nation-building principles


Former Selangor exco says the Sultan’s call goes beyond symbolism, urging political leaders to re-embrace the Rukun Negara and return to the core values underpinning national unity and constitutional governance


Scoop Reporters
Updated 38 seconds ago
19 May, 2026
6:17 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR – Former Selangor executive councillor Ronnie Liu Tian Khiew has expressed support for the Sultan of Selangor’s call for politicians to reconnect with the spirit of the Rukun Negara, describing the royal message as a reminder for leaders to return to the core foundations of nation-building.

In a statement today, Liu said the Sultan’s proposal for politicians to visit Dataran Selangor twice a month to engage with the public and reflect on the Rukun Negara should not be viewed as a symbolic exercise or mere formality.

Instead, he said the message carried a much deeper meaning.

“Today, the issue facing Malaysia is not merely political competition, but a political culture that is becoming increasingly extreme, emotional and confrontational, moving further away from the original spirit of national development,” he said.

Liu said he believed the Sultan’s intended message was not simply about physical attendance at the square, but about the need for politicians to rediscover and understand core national values.

He said these included respecting the nation, upholding the Constitution, preserving the rule of law, honouring the institution of the Malay Rulers and respecting fellow Malaysians.

Liu said the five principles of the Rukun Negara represented a complete national spirit and should not be selectively embraced.

“I believe these five principles cannot be understood selectively, but must instead be embraced comprehensively as the foundation of the nation’s political culture,” he said.

The former Selangor exco member also stressed the importance of constitutional values, saying he had long regarded the Constitution as a pillar of Malaysia’s stability and harmony.

“As someone who has long been involved in the struggle for political reform and democracy in this country, I deeply appreciate the supremacy of the Constitution as the fundamental basis of Malaysia’s stability and harmony,” he said.

Liu added that as a reflection of this belief, his child was given the name “Zun Xian” (尊宪), meaning “respecting the Constitution”, as a symbol of the importance of building future generations upon respect for the law and the country’s foundations.

He said politics in a new era should no longer be shaped by hatred, emotions and division, but instead by maturity, rationality and mutual respect.

“What the people hope for today is not politicians who continue to quarrel endlessly, but politicians who are willing to return to national principles and work together to build a Malaysia that is more mature, stable, united and filled with hope for future generations,” he said. – May 19, 2026


Umno leaders slam Guan Eng over Khairy criticism





Umno leaders slam Guan Eng over Khairy criticism


2 hours ago
Chia Wan Rou


Umno Supreme Council member Nur Jazlan Mohamed says once-vocal DAP leaders are now staying silent because they are in government


Umno Supreme Council member Nur Jazlan Mohamed (left) said DAP national adviser Lim Guan Eng should ‘look in the mirror’ before turning his guns on Khairy Jamaluddin’s defence of Dr Akmal Saleh.


PETALING JAYA: Two Umno leaders have told Lim Guan Eng to “look in the mirror” after the DAP national adviser accused Khairy Jamaluddin of being a “fake progressive” over his defence of Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh’s style of politics.

Umno Supreme Council member Nur Jazlan Mohamed cited senior DAP leaders Nga Kor Ming and Ngeh Koo Ham, who he said were previously vocal in championing the Chinese community but have since remained silent after joining the ruling bloc.

“DAP also has pro-Chinese voices like Nga and Ngeh who are now quiet because they are enjoying the perks of holding government positions. The same goes for Jelutong MP RSN Rayer, who used to be vocal in championing Indian and Hindu interests.


“Now that they are in government, they can afford to stay silent. But I would not be surprised if, once elections draw near, their old deeply buried instincts resurface,” he told FMT.

Earlier, Lim criticised Khairy for saying that Akmal’s style of politics was necessary for Umno.


Lim said employing a controversial and “extremist” approach to canvass Malay support was wrong, regardless if it was Umno or Perikatan Nasional doing so.

Commenting further, Nur Jazlan said the outspoken nature of the Umno Youth chief was unsurprising in today’s political landscape, where social media-driven politics rewarded controversy with quick popularity.

“We are heading towards elections, and in today’s social media era, where people have short attention spans, controversial figures stand to gain greater political mileage,” he said.

Meanwhile, another Umno Supreme Council member, Razlan Rafii, also lashed out at Lim, accusing him of remaining trapped in old racial politics despite the country having moved forward.


He said Malaysia’s political dynamics were straightforward, where any reaction from those defending the Federal Constitution would only arise when parties attempted to challenge the original framework of the federation.

“Leaders like Lim Guan Eng are still trapped in race-based politics. Even though the country has progressed significantly, he continues to play politics under the guise of championing the Chinese community.

“It is not just Akmal and Khairy – the people also see Lim as continuing to play r
acial politics, which is why many reject DAP,” he said.



PN to contest all seats in Johor election





PN to contest all seats in Johor election


3 hours ago
Faiz Zainudin


PN contested all 56 state seats in the 2022 Johor election but won only three


PN deputy chairman Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man said the coalition remained open to negotiating with others to avoid clashes among opposition parties in the upcoming Johor polls. (EPA Images pic)


KUALA LUMPUR: Perikatan Nasional (PN) says it will field candidates in all 56 state seats in the upcoming Johor state election, following in the footsteps of Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pakatan Harapan (PH).

However, PN deputy chairman Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man said the coalition remained open to negotiating with others to avoid clashes among opposition parties.

“PN is ready to contest all seats, but we may be open to holding discussions with several other parties so that opposition parties do not contest against each other,” he said at the PAS headquarters here.


Tuan Ibrahim said PN was prepared to face PH and BN not only in the Johor state election, but also in other states.

PN contested all 56 state seats in the 2022 Johor state election but won only three.


BN formed the state government after winning 40 seats. PH won 12 seats while Muda claimed one.

Last Saturday, Johor BN chairman and menteri besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi announced that the coalition would contest all 56 seats in the state election.

The next day, PH chairman Anwar Ibrahim stressed that the coalition was prepared to contest in all seats at upcoming state and general elections.

However, the PKR president said there was still room for discussions before a final decision was made.

The Johor state assembly will automatically dissolve in April next year if an election is not held before then, after which the polls must be held within 60 days.


Selangor sultan tells DAP rep, former exco to better understand Rukun Negara





Selangor sultan tells DAP rep, former exco to better understand Rukun Negara


Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah encourages Wong Siew Ki and Ronnie Liu to respect the royal institution


Selangor’s Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah visited Dataran Selangor in Shah Alam today to view the Rukun Negara monument placed in front of the Selangor state flagpole. (Selangor Royal Office Facebook pic)



PETALING JAYA: Selangor’s Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah has called on a DAP assemblyman and a former DAP leader to better understand the Rukun Negara and respect the royal institution.

In a Facebook post, the Selangor Royal Office said Sultan Sharafuddin visited Dataran Selangor in Shah Alam today to view the Rukun Negara monument placed in front of the Selangor state flagpole.

Saying the Rukun Negara served as the foundation of unity among Malaysians, the sultan called on all of the state’s elected representatives to visit Dataran Selangor twice a month to read and understand the meaning of the principles inscribed on the monument.


“This is especially directed at Seri Kembangan assemblyman Wong Siew Ki of DAP, and former Selangor DAP exco member Ronnie Liu,” said the office.

“I suggest that they come to Dataran Selangor once a week to better understand and appreciate the meaning of the Rukun Negara, so that they may become citizens who respect the sovereignty of the royal institution and uphold proper manners.”


The sultan also reminded elected representatives of their responsibility to uphold the principles of the Rukun Negara and preserve decorum in public life.

The statement comes amid controversy surrounding Wong and Liu’s response to the sultan’s call for a complete end to pig farming in the state.

Wong attracted brickbats with her proposal for a modern, closed-system pig farming in Selangor, while Liu has urged dissatisfied pig farmers to consider filing a judicial review on the matter.

Liu, a former Selangor executive councillor, was a DAP member for 41 years, serving as a member of its central executive committee for several terms.

He was assemblyman for Pandamaran from 2008 to 2013 and represented Sungai Pelek from 2018 to 2022.

Liu left DAP in June 2023 due to dissatisfaction with the leadership’s move to amend the party’s constitution regarding the termination of memberships.


***


Some of Tuanku's citizens are pig farmers - what shall they do if his prohibition were to be executed in totality?


Amirudin calls for grassroots cooperation to curb cable theft disrupting digital services in Selangor






Amirudin calls for grassroots cooperation to curb cable theft disrupting digital services in Selangor



Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said public cooperation is crucial to ensure immediate action can be taken to prevent acts of sabotage, which not only damage public facilities but also disrupt the public’s digital access. — Bernama pic

Tuesday, 19 May 2026 2:54 PM MYT



SHAH ALAM, May 19 — Local communities have been urged to play a more active role in providing early information to help authorities combat cable theft and vandalism involving telecommunications infrastructure in Selangor.

Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said public cooperation is crucial to ensure immediate action can be taken to prevent acts of sabotage, which not only damage public facilities but also disrupt the public’s digital access.

“We (the state government) want the public to be involved so that cable theft activities, including vandalism against digital facilities, can be reduced. As I mentioned, digital infrastructure is important for sustaining daily life in the state of Selangor.

“Integrated measures mobilised at the grassroots level are crucial to ensuring that every piece of the state’s digital infrastructure is continuously protected from sabotage threats,” he said after launching the state-level Telecommunications Infrastructure Vandalism Prevention Campaign 2026 here today.

Amirudin said such efforts need to be strengthened to ensure continued protection of the state’s digital infrastructure, following a high number of incidents recorded over the past year.

According to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), Selangor remains among the states recording the highest number of cases in Malaysia, with 1,836 cases reported in 2024, followed by 1,273 cases last year.


MCMC senior advisor (Operations) Datuk Zurkarnain Mohd Yasin, who was also present at the launch, said the impact of physical damage to infrastructure has been significant, with the telecommunications industry forced to bear losses exceeding RM20 million annually for repair works.

Several areas in Selangor have also been identified as high-risk locations experiencing repeated incidents, namely Rawang, Gombak, Bangi, the Sungai Tekali area and Hulu Langat, where service disruption periods are longer, involving critical components such as microwave transmission and certain network equipment.

“Spare parts need to be ordered from overseas, and the delivery and reinstallation process requires an additional time of between one and three years before services can be fully restored. This situation directly affects the stability of telecommunications services and impacts users and communities,” he said.

He added that his team is actively working to ensure more effective enforcement actions by strengthening prevention strategies through engagement sessions in hotspot areas.

Such an approach, he said, can foster closer cooperation with various parties, including the Royal Malaysia Police, village heads, community leaders, residents’ associations and local communities in efforts to raise awareness and encourage the reporting of suspicious activities to authorities. — Bernama

Penang 75pc ready for snap polls, says Chow Kon Yeow





Penang 75pc ready for snap polls, says Chow Kon Yeow



Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow showing the progress of the manifesto achievements. — Picture by Opalyn Mok

Tuesday, 19 May 2026 2:26 PM MYT


GEORGE TOWN, May 19 — Penang is about 75 per cent ready to face snap polls, said Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.

He said there is no fixed point at which a state can be considered fully ready for elections, whether at 80 or 100 per cent.

““If you ask me, I always give the answer 75 per cent, not completely prepared, but educated prepared if there is a possibility,” he said when he was asked whether the state is ready to face snap polls.

“When parliament is dissolved, it’s a sign to be ready,” he added.


As for whether Pakatan Harapan Penang will continue to collaborate with Barisan Nasional in the elections, he said it is still open for them to decide later.

Chow, who is Penang PH chairman, said some states plan to go solo while some states viewed the cooperation under the Unity coalition as still relevant.

“Ultimately, the decision comes from the leadership at the national level,” he said.


He said all states will have to align themselves with the national leadership’s decision.

Earlier, Chow announced that the state has completed 60 per cent or 30 items under the MyPenang Manifesto.

He said 17 items or 34 per cent are being implemented while only three items or six per cent are yet to be implemented.

He said the manifesto achievement announcement coincided with the recent statement by the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim that snap polls can be called anytime.

“We normally give updates on the manifesto achievements so regardless of when elections are held, work to complete the manifesto continues,” he said.

He said if elections are called, possibly some of the manifesto items may not be completed in time.

He said the public can access the MyPenang Manifesto dashboard online to check on the progress of the projects being implemented.

‘A leopard cannot change its spots’: Lim Guan Eng labels Khairy, Umno ‘fake progressives’ over defence of Dr Akmal’s politics






‘A leopard cannot change its spots’: Lim Guan Eng labels Khairy, Umno ‘fake progressives’ over defence of Dr Akmal’s politics



In a statement, Lim Guan Eng said Khairy Jamaluddin’s assertion that Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh’s political approach remained necessary in Umno was disappointing, especially after previously positioning himself as a progressive and non-racial politician. — Pictures by Sayuti Zainudin/Choo Choy May

Tuesday, 19 May 2026 1:47 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, May 19 — DAP adviser Lim Guan Eng today accused Khairy Jamaluddin and Umno of being “fake progressives” after the former minister defended Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh’s style of politics.

In a statement, Lim said Khairy’s assertion that Akmal’s political approach remained necessary in Umno was disappointing, especially after previously positioning himself as a progressive and non-racial politician.

Lim said Khairy appeared to suggest that Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi tolerated Akmal’s controversial “culture war politics” because of what he described as a “clear and present danger” from the political right dominated by Perikatan Nasional.

“Two wrongs do not make a right,” Lim said.

“If PN is wrong to indulge in extremist actions and controversial style to reinforce Malay nationalist support, then it is equally wrong for Umno Youth leaders to follow suit.”

Lim also claimed Khairy had changed from the politician who was sacked by Ahmad Zahid before later rejoining Umno.

“Back then, Khairy espoused a non-racial line and progressive policies that he portrayed as fair and beneficial to all Malaysians,” he said.


“Clearly Khairy’s attempt to whitewash Akmal’s unacceptable and irresponsible acts demonstrates that both Umno and Khairy are fake progressives.”

The Bagan MP further accused Umno of prioritising political power over coalition ties, citing what he described as a failed attempt to seize control of the Negeri Sembilan government and Barisan Nasional’s intention to contest all 56 state seats in the next Johor state election.

“For those who placed some expectations and even hopes on Khairy can now see that both Khairy and Umno have proven that a leopard cannot change its spots,” he said.

Former Sabah Water Dept director found guilty of money laundering, wife and deputy acquitted






Former Sabah Water Dept director found guilty of money laundering, wife and deputy acquitted



File picture of former Sabah Water Department (SWD) director Ag Mohd Tahir Ag Talib and his wife Fauziah Piut. Mohd Tahir. — Picture by Julia Chan

Tuesday, 19 May 2026 1:36 PM MYT


KOTA KINABALU, May 19 — The Sessions Court here has found former Sabah Water Department director Ag Mohd Tahir Mohd Talib guilty of 12 charges of money laundering.

Judge Abu Bakar Manat has allowed a short stand down for the prosecution and defence to prepare mitigation for Ag Mohd Tahir before passing sentence.

Two others — Ag Mohd Tahir’s wife Fauziah Piut and former deputy director Lim Lam Beng @ Lim Chee Hong — were discharged and acquitted of all their charges.

Fauziah had 19 charges while Lim faced four charges. — The Borneo Post

MORE TO COME

Malaysia seeks RM1b from Norwegian firm over cancelled missile export licence, says Khaled





Malaysia seeks RM1b from Norwegian firm over cancelled missile export licence, says Khaled



Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the notice, seeking compensation for both direct and indirect losses, was sent to the company today. — Bernama pic

Tuesday, 19 May 2026 2:06 PM MYT


LUMUT, May 19 — The Ministry of Defence (Mindef) has issued a notice of demand to a Norwegian manufacturer following the cancellation of an export licence for the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) anti-ship and land-attack missile system.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the notice, seeking compensation for both direct and indirect losses, was sent to the company today.

“We are claiming both direct and indirect costs. The direct cost amounts to EUR126 million (RM583.47 million), which has already been paid, and we are also seeking substantial indirect costs, bringing the total claim to about RM1 billion.”

He said this to reporters after a working visit to inspect the progress of the littoral combat ship (LCS) project at the Lumut Naval Shipyard at the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) base here today.

Also present was Navy chief Admiral Tan Sri Dr Zulhelmy Ithnain.

Mohamed Khaled said the direct claim of EUR126 million represented 95 per cent of payments already made under the RM634.7 million contract involving weapons systems for the LCS fleet as well as two other naval vessels, KD Jebat and KD Lekiu.

He said the Norwegian government had unilaterally revoked the export licence without prior discussions with Malaysia, despite the government having fulfilled all contractual obligations.


“We have paid 95 per cent of the contract value. But at the final stage, based on the chronology of events, the Norwegian government cancelled the export licence for the system unilaterally.

“They refused to issue the export licence because their new policy restricts the export of sensitive defence technology only to allies and close strategic partners.

“Meaning that the export is limited to members of the NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) and countries regarded by Norway as strategic partners,” he said.

Mohamed Khaled said the cancellation had triggered a crisis of confidence over international commitments and should serve as a lesson for Malaysia and its Asean partners in future dealings with Norway.

“When commitments can be cancelled unilaterally, confidence in the entire system will begin to erode. We hope ASEAN countries and nations that are not close allies of Norway will learn from Malaysia’s experience and avoid purchasing or dealing with Norway.

“For the Defence Ministry, I have also reminded them that future purchases, whether ammunition or otherwise, should no longer be sourced from Norway. We must be cautious when procuring from countries that may take similar action against us,” he added. — Bernama

Sateerah Hassan quits as Putrajaya PKR Women deputy chief






Sateerah Hassan quits as Putrajaya PKR Women deputy chief



Putrajaya PKR Women chief Fasyarini Azahari said the party acknowledged Sateerah Hassan’s decision and respected her choice. — Picture by Yusof Mat Isa

Tuesday, 19 May 2026 2:08 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, May 19 — Sateerah Hassan has confirmed her resignation as deputy chief of the Women’s wing of Parti Keadilan Rakyat’s (PKR) Putrajaya division.

Putrajaya PKR Women chief Fasyarini Azahari said the party acknowledged Sateerah’s decision and respected her choice, according to a report published in Sinar 
She said the party appreciated Sateerah’s contributions, commitment and service throughout her time in the leadership line-up.

“Every effort and contribution made in strengthening the party’s work, especially involving women’s agendas and the local community, is greatly appreciated.


“In a mature and democratic political organisation, differences in opinion and changes in leadership are normal,” she said in a statement yesterday.

Previously, media reports said former PKR deputy president Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and former party vice-president Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad had officially submitted letters notifying Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul of their resignations as Members of Parliament.

According to the pair, the decision was made following their intention to explore a new political agenda, with plans to contest both seats again under the Parti Bersama Malaysia platform in the next general election.


Commenting further, Fasyarini stressed that the party would continue focusing on strengthening the organisation, safeguarding public welfare and pursuing its reform agenda for the well-being of the people.

“I am confident that the entire leadership and members of PKR Women Putrajaya will continue to move collectively, maturely and professionally.

“This is to ensure the party’s work continues smoothly and remains strong in facing current challenges,” she said.

She also wished Sateerah success in whatever field she chooses to pursue after this.

Penang gets tough on litterbugs: Body cams, 24-hour enforcement rolled out under new community service order scheme






Penang gets tough on litterbugs: Body cams, 24-hour enforcement rolled out under new community service order scheme



State exco H’ng Mooi Lye (second from right) looking at the body camera on an enforcement officer. — Picture by Opalyn Mok

Tuesday, 19 May 2026 12:24 PM MYT


GEORGE TOWN, May 19 — Officers equipped with body cameras will be deployed as part of Penang’s new Community Service Order (PKM) enforcement against litterbugs from July 1 onwards.

State Local Government and Town and Country Planning Committee chairman H’ng Mooi Lye said enforcement action will also be carried out round-the-clock.

“Enforcement action can be carried out anytime of the day, 24 hours a day so there is no specific time,” he said in a press conference in Komtar today.

He said the use of body cameras, along with photographic and video recordings, will serve as evidence during enforcement operations.

“Usually, one enforcement team will consist of at least two officers and one of them will have a body camera,” he said.

He added that the officers will also use video recordings.

Currently, the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has about 170 body cameras for its enforcement team while the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) has about 17 body cameras.


H’ng said each body camera costs about RM1,000 each and he has instructed MBSP to increase the number of body cameras for its enforcement team.

He said CCTV recordings could also be used as supporting evidence against offenders, although he stressed that enforcement officers would still need to be physically present during operations to avoid disputes.

The Penang government approved guidelines for the implementation of the PKM for littering offences on May 6.

“Since this is still new in Penang, we want proper procedures in place first. We took six months to prepare our own state guidelines after discussions at the national level,” he said.

The PKM initiative follows amendments to the Local Government Act and the Street, Drainage and Building Act gazetted on November 12 last year which empower local authorities to impose community service-based punishments for offences related to public cleanliness.

Under the implementation, he said offenders may be fined up to RM2,000 or ordered to perform up to 12 hours of community service within six months, or both.

“Those who fail to comply with court orders may face fines ranging from RM2,000 to RM10,000,” he said.

Among the offences covered under PKM are throwing cigarette butts in public places, littering tissues, plastic bottles and food wrappers, dumping rubbish into drains, leaving rubbish at beaches, parks and recreational areas, throwing garbage from vehicles, and leaving food waste after trading at public spaces such as night markets and food courts.

H’ng said the punishment was not intended solely as a punitive measure but also as an educational approach to instil civic responsibility and public cleanliness awareness.

Community service activities under PKM may include cleaning roads, drains, public markets, beaches, bus stops, pedestrian walkways, hawker centres and public toilets.

It also includes participating in gotong-royong activities, post-flood clean-up efforts and public awareness programmes organised by local authorities.

He said the state government hoped the initiative would reduce littering offences and cultivate a stronger culture of cleanliness and environmental sustainability in Penang.

Zambry: BN will stay with unity govt until end of mandate





Zambry: BN will stay with unity govt until end of mandate



Barisan Nasional secretary-general Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir said BN is of the view that the understanding and basis for the formation of the Unity Government after the 15th general election (GE15) is the responsibility of the nation to prevent Malaysia from falling into prolonged political polemics. — Picture By Raymond Manuel

Tuesday, 19 May 2026 2:19 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, May 19 — Barisan Nasional (BN) will continue to preserve understanding in the Unity Government until the end of the administration’s mandate to ensure national stability and the well-being of the people, said its secretary-general Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir.

He said BN is of the view that the understanding and basis for the formation of the Unity Government after the 15th general election (GE15) is the responsibility of the nation to prevent Malaysia from falling into prolonged political polemics.

“The understanding was agreed upon until the mandate ends. Therefore, there is no question of Barisan Nasional betraying the Unity Government,” he said in a statement here, today.

Touching on developments in Johor, Zambry said BN respects the stance voiced by the state’s BN regarding the direction and preparations for the upcoming state election.

He said the stance was in line with the views of all parties in the Johor BN component parties.

Last Saturday, Johor BN chairman Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi announced that the coalition would contest all 56 state assembly seats. — Bernama