Mohamad Sabu says rice stockpile hits 300,000 tonnes as Malaysia braces for rising feed and fuel costs

Mohamad Sabu says rice stockpile hits 300,000 tonnes as Malaysia braces for rising feed and fuel costs



The country’s food supply remains stable for now, with the rice buffer stock reaching 300,000 tonnes, says Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu. — Picture by Shafwan Zaidon

Wednesday, 29 Apr 2026 9:06 AM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, April 29 — The country’s food supply remains stable for now, with the rice buffer stock reaching 300,000 tonnes, says Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu.

He said the local production of chicken and eggs was also close to achieving full self-sufficiency.

Although the current situation was under control, Mohamad said the government remained cautious of challenges arising from rising costs of animal feed, which still relied on imports, as well as fuel prices.

“For vegetables, there are times when oversupply occurs, causing prices to drop. Consumers are happy, but farmers are under pressure.

“So the government is assisting through planting schedules and contract farming systems. Fish supply, however, is slightly affected due to hot weather and rising costs for fishermen, which is why we are intensifying aquaculture as an alternative,” he said in a Facebook post yesterday.

Mohamad said the real impact of the global supply crisis was expected to be more pronounced within the next three to six months, especially as the costs of fertiliser, animal feed and fuel rise.

“Food prices may increase slightly, but the government is working to ensure that there is no sharp hike,” he said.

He said the government had also taken various measures to help ease the burden on the people, including increasing rice stockpiles, opening new paddy fields, improving irrigation systems and developing the local corn industry to reduce reliance on imports.

At the same time, he said assistance and incentives were also being channelled to help farmers, livestock breeders and fishermen sustain their operations.

Mohamad also advised the public to be prepared and to spend according to their needs to avoid wastage.

“If we all remain calm and act responsibly, God willing, we can face these challenges together,” he said. — Bernama

***

What about pork and pig-farming in Selangor?

Ringgit strengthens against US dollar as UAE shocks markets by quitting Opec

Ringgit strengthens against US dollar as UAE shocks markets by quitting Opec



The logo of Opec is pictured at its headquarters in Vienna on October 4, 2022. — AFP pic

Wednesday, 29 Apr 2026 9:15 AM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, April 29 — The ringgit strengthened against the US dollar but was mixed against other currencies in early trade today, amid cautious sentiment over oil price volatility and developments in the Strait of Hormuz, an analyst said.


At 8.03 am, the local currency stood at 3.9475/9540 against the greenback, compared with 3.9505/9550 at Tuesday’s close.


Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said the ringgit is expected to trade within a narrow range as market participants await further clarity on the situation in the Strait of Hormuz.

At the time of writing, oil prices remained volatile following the United Arab Emirates’ exit from the OPEC alliance. West Texas Intermediate fell 0.83 per cent to US$99.10 per barrel, while Brent crude slipped 0.59 per cent to US$110.60 per barrel.


“News of the UAE’s departure from OPEC in May, after more than six decades of membership, is set to reshape the oil and gas landscape. The country will be free to determine its output levels in line with its investment in the sector,” Mohd Afzanizam told Bernama.


However, for now, the focus is on supply cuts amid the war in Iran, which has disrupted the flow of oil and gas through the Strait of Hormuz, he added.

Mohd Afzanizam said US data showed the Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index rose to 92.8 in April following a ceasefire in the Iran conflict.


However, he added that expectations of a US recession over the next 12 months have risen, while plans to purchase big-ticket items have declined.

“Tonight, the Federal Open Market Committee’s decision will be closely watched for signals on whether policymakers are becoming more wary of growth prospects amid a higher inflation environment,” he said.

At the opening, the ringgit was mixed against a basket of major currencies.

It rose against the Japanese yen to 2.4740/4782 from Tuesday’s 2.4756/4785, but weakened against the British pound to 5.3394/3482 from 5.3292/3353, and slipped against the euro to 4.6261/6337 from 4.6189/6242.

The local currency traded mostly higher against Asean peers.

It edged up against the Singapore dollar to 3.0937/0990 from 3.0943/0983 at Tuesday’s close and strengthened against the Thai baht to 12.1484/1759 from 12.1494/1685.

The ringgit was little changed against the Indonesian rupiah at 228.9/229.4 and was steady against the Philippine peso at 6.44/6.45 from 6.44/6.46. — Bernama

Oil supply recovery could take up to a year if fuel crisis drags on, says economy minister

Oil supply recovery could take up to a year if fuel crisis drags on, says economy minister



Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the recovery of crude oil supply could be delayed between three and 12 months, if disruptions prolong. — Reuters file pic

Tuesday, 28 Apr 2026 6:40 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 — Crude oil supply could take between three and 12 months to recover if the ongoing energy crisis persists, Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said today.

The economy minister added that the situation could worsen if there was damage to oil and gas infrastructure as time would be needed for repairs.

He also said that oil prices are likely to continue to fluctuate even though the volatility has begun to ease.

“Between April 20 and 24, the average global Brent crude spot price declined by 6.7 per cent to US$109.94 per barrel, compared with US$117.84 in the previous week.

“Despite the weekly average decline, prices showed an upward trend over the same period. Brent crude opened at US$106.02 per barrel on Monday and rose to US$112.92 by market close on Friday, April 24, marking an overall increase of 6.5 per cent,” he said in an online global supply crisis briefing.

He said that the upward momentum continued with the latest closing price on April 27 reaching US$113.34 per barrel, higher than the level on April 24, when markets closed last week.

The minister said the trend indicates that the global supply is still in crisis and could continue to affect a wide range of sectors, including oil and gas, petrochemicals, fertiliser production, food packaging, medical devices and construction materials.


He said the government will continue to monitor developments to enable early and proactive mitigation measures.

He said the government is also enhancing the implementation of biodiesel as a measure to extend energy supply, reduce reliance on imports and support local industry.

A high-level biofuels committee has been established to streamline and speed up the agenda.

Akmal said a recent visit to the Pengerang Integrated Complex (PIC) on April 24 focused on assessing its role in ensuring the stability of domestic fuel and petrochemical supply.

“The PIC has a refining capacity of 300,000 barrels per day and produces more than 3.3 million metric tonnes of petrochemicals annually, which are key raw materials for plastics, packaging and other essential goods,” he added.

On food security, he said the government continues to prioritise fertiliser supply and agricultural inputs to safeguard food security, following a visit to a fertiliser manufacturing facility to assess challenges faced by the local industry, particularly uncertainties in raw material supply, rising logistics costs and pressure from input prices.

He said discussions with industry players focused on diversifying raw material sources, improving production efficiency and expanding capacity to meet domestic demand.

“The government is also placing emphasis on the production of bio-organic fertiliser as an alternative to conventional fertilisers. This approach is important to reduce reliance on imported inputs, extend fertiliser supply resilience, and support national food security at a time when the world is facing a global supply crisis.

“This agenda can also be further expanded through a circular economy approach in line with the 13th Malaysia Plan” he added.

This, Akmal said, would reduce waste, create new industry opportunities and support more sustainable agriculture.

Thai govt plans 1,000-baht exit tax on travellers to boost local tourism subsidies

Thai govt plans 1,000-baht exit tax on travellers to boost local tourism subsidies



Thailand is considering a 1,000-baht departure fee to fund cheaper holidays at home for its citizens. — Unsplash pic

Tuesday, 28 Apr 2026 9:00 PM MYT


BANGKOK, April 28 — Thailand is planning to reintroduce a departure levy on its own citizens travelling abroad, with proceeds earmarked to support domestic tourism programmes.

Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said the proposed 1,000-baht fee (RM121) would be collected from Thai nationals leaving the country under existing legal provisions that allow such a charge, The Bangkok Post reported yesterday.

He said the current legal framework, established under the 1983 Emergency Decree on Departure Levy, remains in force and permits the government to reinstate the fee, which previously stood at 500 baht (RM60.80) before being discontinued.

Surasak noted that the law sets a ceiling of 5,000 baht (RM608) per departure, giving authorities room to adjust the rate if necessary.

He estimated that with around 10 million outbound Thai travellers annually, the measure could generate up to 10 billion baht (about RM1.22 billion) each year.

The revenue would be channelled into a co-payment scheme aimed at subsidising domestic travel costs for Thai citizens.

Surasak added that discussions with the Finance Ministry are ongoing, and the proposal would require Cabinet approval before implementation.

He said he does not expect the levy to significantly deter outbound travel, claiming that travellers are more sensitive to airfares, while the funds raised would ultimately benefit domestic tourism development.

Pakatan condemns ‘betrayal’ by 14 Negeri Sembilan Umno lawmakers

Pakatan condemns ‘betrayal’ by 14 Negeri Sembilan Umno lawmakers



In a strongly-worded media statement issued today, PH Communications Director Datuk Fahmi Fadzil expressed the coalition’s deep regret over what he described as a treacherous move that disregards the welfare of the people. — Bernama pic

Tuesday, 28 Apr 2026 7:43 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR April 28 Pakatan Harapan (PH) has strongly condemned the actions of 14 Umno state assemblymen from the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition in Negeri Sembilan, accusing them of betraying the spirit of the Unity Government and attempting to destabilise the state administration.

In a strongly-worded media statement issued today, PH Communications Director Datuk Fahmi Fadzil expressed the coalition’s deep regret over what he described as a treacherous move that disregards the welfare of the people.

PH rejected what it termed as the “betrayal” by the 14 UMNO-BN lawmakers who allegedly attempted to “topple the roof” and seize control of the Negeri Sembilan state government administration.

“The reasons given by the 14 assemblymen are completely unrelated to the Menteri Besar’s performance,” the statement read.

The opposition coalition argued that Umno-BN’s actions were carried out without considering the people’s welfare, particularly at a time when the Unity Government and the nation are grappling with a global supply crisis while working to manage the economy and reduce the burden on the rakyat (people).

Despite the political manoeuvring, PH reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining stability in the state. The coalition stated that, as conveyed by PH Chairman to the Yang di-Pertuan Besar (Ruler) of Negeri Sembilan, the state government administration under the leadership of the Menteri Besar will continue to operate as usual.

“Pakatan Harapan will continue to extend cooperation to the state government leadership for the sake of the state’s economic stability and the people’s welfare,” the statement emphasised.


The statement also underscored PH’s continued commitment to defending the role and functions of the Malay Rulers institution, signaling that the coalition views this latest political development as not merely a partisan issue but one with broader constitutional implications.

Poultry up slightly, beef cheaper but overall food prices remain controlled, says economy minister

Poultry up slightly, beef cheaper but overall food prices remain controlled, says economy minister



The price of eggs and chicken edged up, but overall food prices are steady in Malaysia, says Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir. — Picture by Raymond Manuel

Tuesday, 28 Apr 2026 7:29 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 — Selected food prices in Malaysia remain broadly stable, with cost-of-living pressures still contained despite early signs of rising input costs, Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said today.

He said most food items are continuing to move within a controlled range, with only modest price changes recorded.

“For the period from 20 to 22 April 2026, selected food prices remained on a controlled trend, with price changes kept below 10 per cent,” he said in an online global supply briefing today.

He said the average price of standard chicken rose by 3.3 per cent to RM9.70 per kilogramme, while Grade C chicken eggs increased by 7.3 per cent to RM3.93 per 10 pieces.

However, he said beef prices declined by 3.8 per cent to RM35.92 per kilogramme.

As for produce, Akmal said mustard greens increased from RM6.16 o RM6.51 per kilogramme, spinach rose by almost 5 per cent to RM5.59 per kilogramme, and fresh coconut milk increased by 3.6 per cent to RM16.41 per kilogramme.

“This trend indicates that cost and logistics pressures are beginning to signal early stress within the domestic food supply chain.


“For this reason, monitoring cannot be confined to retail prices alone but must begin upstream, covering fertiliser, diesel, energy, raw materials, production, transportation and distribution,” he said.

He said the government will continue to monitor and implement appropriate measures to help mitigate the impact on consumers and maintain price stability.

***

What about pork?

Coup against Madani in Negeri Sembilan

Murray Hunter
Apr 27, 2026


Coup against Madani in Negeri Sembilan

There is an indication UMNO is heading towards Perikatan Nasional



Negeri Sembilan UMNO state assembly members effectively bring down Madani coalition today



Actions speak louder than words. Just as UMNO vice-president Mohamed Khaled Nordin is declining to reveal whether UMNO will contest the upcoming scheduled Melaka state election alone or in partnership with other unity government members, his colleagues in Negeri Sembilan have answered the question through their actions.


Murray Hunter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.


The monarchy drama in Negeri Sembilan has spilled over into the state assembly.

The smile of a coup against the Madani coalition

Today, 14 Negeri Sembilan UMNO state assembly members have withdrawn their support for the current chief minister Aminuddin Harun claiming they have lost all confidence in him due to his handling of the four chieftains seeking to remove the Yang Di-Pertuan Besar of the state.

UMNO’s withdraw of support will not immediately change the government, although four UMNO ADUN’s are executive councilors. UMNO and the Barisan Nasional have 14 seats, to Pakatan Harapan’s 17 members. Perikatan Nasional has 5 members, who are holding a press conference as this is being written.

However, the UMNO move to withdraw support for the chief minister really reflects UMNO grassroot feelings about the UMNO-Pakatan Harapan coalition. There is anger within UMNO over the forming of the coalition from back in late 2022 when the unity government was formed.

Many within UMNO believe that PKR, DAP and Amanah will be a burden for UMNO in the coming general election. This is a clear signal that UMNO will decouple itself from the Madani coalition in the coming general election.

This is a very clear sign that PH and BN must develop their own separate electoral strategies for the coming GE. This is particularly the case where the GE16 campaign will be just as fierce as was the campaign during GE15.

To many PH supporters, UMNO is still the demon it was portrayed during the last general election. UMNO president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi only just won his seat of Bagan Datuk in Perak, and many within PKR and DAP wanted him to lose his seat. However, Zahid just scrapped in by a few hundred votes against PKR, where he became the deputy prime minister under Anwar Ibrahim in a coalition.

This has created much resentment along with the charges against Zahid being withdrawn through a DNAA, which appeared to be seen as some form of backroom deal for switching sides from PN to PH after the election.

From the UMNO side many are angry that UMNO had to serve in a government along with the DAP.

UMNO has been circumventing the Madani government through government statutory agencies UMNO controls through political appointees. This clandestine sabotage by UMNO has increased the unpopularity of PH.

UMNO is ready to go alone in GE16 now. The political lines were drawn today in Negeri Sembilan between UMNO and Pakatan Harapan. PN agreeing to cooperate with BN in the Negeri Sembilan state assembly indicates where UMNO is heading for the coming election.

A big move by PAS leadership in Negeri Sembilan today towards Barisan Nasional

***

Unity Coalition - ta'cukup kerusi lah untuk UMNO

Trump unhappy with Iran's latest proposal to end the war

Trump unhappy with Iran's latest proposal to end the war

By Parisa Hafezi and Steve Holland

April 28, 2026

12:01 PM GMT+10

Updated 1 hour ago


Summary

• Iranian plan would set aside nuclear issue until war ends
• Trump unhappy with delaying deal on nuclear programme
• Iran demands blockade be lifted before any negotiations begin

DUBAI/WASHINGTON, April 28 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump is unhappy with the latest Iranian proposal ​on resolving the two-month war, a U.S. official said, dampening hopes for resolution of a conflict that has disrupted energy supplies, fuelled inflation, and killed ‌thousands.

Iran's latest proposal would set aside discussion of Iran's nuclear programme until the war, on hold following a ceasefire announced earlier this month, is ended and disputes over shipping from the Gulf are resolved.

Trump is unhappy with Iran's proposal as he wants nuclear issues dealt with from the outset, said a U.S. official briefed on the president's Monday meeting with his advisers, speaking on condition of anonymity.

White House ​spokeswoman Olivia Wales said the U.S. has "been clear about our red lines" as it seeks to end the war it began in February alongside Israel.

A previous ​agreement in 2015 between Iran and multiple other countries including the U.S. sharply curtailed Iran's nuclear programme, which it has long maintained ⁠is for peaceful, civilian purposes. But that deal fell apart when Trump unilaterally withdrew from it in his first term in office.

Hopes of reviving peace efforts have receded ​since the U.S. president scrapped a visit planned for last weekend by his special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner to mediator Pakistan.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi shuttled in and out ​of Islamabad twice during the weekend. He also visited Oman and on Monday went to Russia, where he met President Vladimir Putin and received words of support from a longstanding ally.

Iran's Deputy Defence Minister Reza Talaei-Nik said on Tuesday that Tehran was ready to share defensive weapons capabilities and experiences gained from "America's defeat" with "independent" nations including those of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. That bloc includes Iran, Russia, China, India, ​Pakistan and Central Asian states.

OIL PRICES RISE AGAIN

With the warring sides still seemingly far apart, oil prices resumed their upward march, rising nearly 3% on Tuesday and extending gains ​from the previous session.

Chairman Yin Tongyue calls it the 'double T' strategy, drawing from Toyota and Tesla to guide the company’s next phase of growth.

"For oil traders, it's not the rhetoric that matters any more, but the actual physical flow of crude oil through the Strait of Hormuz, and right now, that flow remains ‌constrained," Fawad ⁠Razaqzada, market analyst at City Index and FOREX.com, said in a note.

At least six tankers loaded with Iranian oil have been forced back to Iran by the U.S. blockade in recent days, ship-tracking data showed, underscoring the war's impact on traffic.

Iran's foreign ministry condemned U.S. action against Iran-linked tankers as "outright legalization of piracy and armed robbery on the high seas", in a social media post.

However, government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani told state media on Tuesday that Iran had prepared for maritime blockade scenarios as early as the U.S. 2024 presidential election ​and made necessary arrangements so that "there is ​nothing to worry about".

She added Tehran ⁠was using northern, eastern and western trade corridors that do not rely on Gulf ports to neutralise the blockade's effects.

Between 125 and 140 ships usually crossed in and out of the strait daily before the war, but only seven have done so in the ​past day, according to Kpler ship-tracking data and satellite analysis from SynMax, and none of them were carrying oil bound for ​the global market.

With his ⁠approval ratings falling, Trump faces domestic pressure to end a war for which he has given the U.S. public shifting rationales.

Senior Iranian officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters the proposal carried by Araqchi to Islamabad over the weekend envisioned talks in stages, with the nuclear issue to be set aside at the start.

A first step would require ending the U.S.-Israeli ⁠war on Iran ​and providing guarantees that the U.S. cannot start it up again. Then negotiators would resolve the U.S. ​Navy's blockade of Iran's trade by sea and the fate of the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran aims to reopen under its control.

Only then would talks look at other issues, including the longstanding dispute over Iran's ​nuclear programme, with Iran still seeking some kind of U.S. acknowledgment of its right to enrich uranium.

PN, Muda slam HR Ministry over police raid on Malaysiakini journalist's home

PN, Muda slam HR Ministry over police raid on Malaysiakini journalist's home


Published: Apr 28, 2026 12:33 PM
Updated: 4:44 PM



Muda and Perikatan Nasional have slammed the Human Resources Ministry for lodging a police report instead of addressing issues highlighted by a news article on a proposed migrant worker recruitment system.

This comes after the police raided the home of Malaysiakini journalist B Nantha Kumar, who came under investigation for writing a story about the government's purported plan to adopt a new system called The Universal Recruitment Advanced Platform (Turap).

Muda information chief Rasid Abu Bakar pointed out that the ministry had been given the opportunity to comment on the matter but chose to lodge a report with the authorities instead.

"The report concerns a matter of public interest, and the ministry under R Ramanan had already been given the opportunity to provide feedback prior to publication, but they chose not to do so.

"If there is nothing to hide, they should give an open response. Replacing the right to reply with a police report is an act of avoiding accountability.

"That is not leadership; it is an evasion of responsibility," he said in a statement.

Rasid raised concerns over the use of Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act against a journalist, which he described as a form of intimidation against the media.

He stressed that the media plays an important role in a democracy by providing checks and balances, and journalists should not be subjected to investigation or raids just for carrying out their duties.

"Malaysia must not become a country where questions are answered with investigations, and public disclosures are met with pressure on the media," Rasid added.

Is this transparency?

Similarly, PN secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan also questioned the ministry's choice of action.

He said it raises questions on the government's concept of transparency and its use of law enforcement tools against media reports.

"In a mature democracy, responses to media reports should prioritise clarification and transparency, rather than reactions that may be seen as curbing legitimate public scrutiny.

"For a long time, the migrant worker recruitment sector in this country has been associated with issues of transparency, the role of middlepersons, high costs, and governance weaknesses.

"Therefore, media coverage of any reforms in this sector is clearly in the public interest, legitimate, and warrants scrutiny," he said.

Takiyuddin Hassan

Takiyuddin, who is also Kota Bharu MP, said the opposition coalition called on the authorities to justify their action against Nantha and urged them to avoid moves that could negatively impact the role of the media and investigative reporting.


Stop intimidating journalists

Meanwhile, the Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) called for the authorities "to cease all forms of intimidation on journalists carrying out their duty to report on public interest matters".

Its executive director, Wathshlah G Naidu said they were alarmed by the rise in using the law to intimidate and harass journalists, which can lead to a culture of fear and inhibit the progress of investigative journalism.

"The raid strikes at the core of free press and democratic accountability, and sends a threatening message to journalists reporting on sensitive issues linked to possible corruption or corporate malpractices.

"A search warrant and raid of the journalist's home threatens source confidentiality and is a potential abuse of power as it can be used as a ‘fishing expedition’ to access other information - including communications logs, devices, contact lists, raw research and other notes or information.

"This breach of privacy and safety would threaten the very existence of investigative journalism," she said.

Wathshlah G Naidu


She also called upon the authorities to take any complaints of alleged misconduct by a journalist or media company to the Malaysian Media Council.

Wathshlah said the council has been given the mandate to ensure that the media remains accountable and independent through its code of conduct for journalists, and it should be allowed to do so.

"Allowing the mandate of the media council to function would ensure international standards of proportionality, necessity and legitimacy whilst protecting the rights of individuals and journalists during investigations.

“This includes the right to legal counsel and the right to remain silent to safeguard themselves or their sources of information.

"Let legitimate media perform its duties as the fourth estate and allow journalists to do their work without fearing the constant threat of legal action," she said.

Yesterday, police officers spent about 45 minutes conducting a search at the journalist's home in Seri Serdang, Selangor.

B Nantha Kumar


According to Nantha, he was furnished with a search warrant stating that police had grounds to suspect his home was being used to store materials related to a proposed migrant worker recruitment system.

The warrant purported that he owned copies - both physical and material - of official documents, namely a cabinet memorandum titled "Proposal for the Implementation of the Digital System, the Universal Recruitment Advanced Platform (Turap), in the Process of Recruiting Foreign Workers to Malaysia".

Second insipid appointment for key post

Second insipid appointment for key post

P Gunasegaram
Published: Apr 28, 2026 7:59 AM
Updated: 12:31 PM


COMMENT | The appointment of the new MACC chief commissioner, Abdul Halim Aman, which will take effect on May 13, does not inspire confidence in the Madani government's and Anwar Ibrahim's commitment to fighting the corruption plaguing our country.

One would have expected that with all the problems facing the outgoing commissioner, the premier could have taken the opportunity to recommend the appointment of a much more well-known person with proven, impeccable qualifications to show he was serious.

But what he has chosen is a relative lightweight who has made no major impact during his long tenure in the judiciary, rising only to the position of a High Court judge after 41 years in the judicial services.

This new insipid appointment comes some 10 months after the appointment of a new chief justice, Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh, who inexplicably jumped 34 other Court of Appeal and Federal Court judges, skipping many other potentially better candidates.

These appointments damage Anwar’s reputation, sidelining others much more highly regarded, leaving open to speculation why he would make such tame appointments for two of the positions most under the public glare.

A demanding job

One wonders what is exceptional about Halim that he is brought out of retirement at the ripe old age of 69 to the demanding job of heading the MACC, which is facing the brunt of public rage over its outgoing commissioner.

Current MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki is the subject of an investigation into share trading and allegations that he and the MACC are part of a “corporate mafia,” as highlighted in a long, detailed Bloomberg report.

What outstanding qualifications does Halim have to deal with some of these major allegations made against MACC and bring its image up from its current depths? How has he shown that he is capable of such action?

His profile does not show any outstanding qualities despite a 41-year career in the judicial service, reaching the level of High Court judge in 2007, and remaining there for some 16 years.

He retired as a High Court judge in 2023, only to be brought back as head of MACC.

Qualities required

What are the qualities that an MACC chief commissioner should have? First, the person must likely have the ability to understand, investigate and charge high-level corruption at all levels, which is a major problem in the country. Anwar admits as much.

Surely, Halim does not fit the bill, not because he has a tainted past or anything like that, but his background is not the right one for the job. Even as a magistrate and judge, his major judgments were made in the criminal area, not in corruption cases.

Second, if the candidate comes from a different field, he must have shown exceptional ability in that area so that he has the intellectual capacity, stamina, and grit to quickly learn the business and move forward. We can’t see that in Halim’s case.

Third, the person must not only have exceptional integrity but must have demonstrated that she/he is prepared to take steps to defend that in the face of strong pressure in any form - public, political, religious or racial - and stay above the fray.

Considering that Halim did not rise to that level where his abilities would have been tested and that he is already in retirement, means that he is not a suitable candidate for this hot seat, which requires outstanding proven ability, unquestioned and demonstrated integrity and honesty, and the grit to withstand pressures and perform nevertheless.

Why not Maimun?

This is an appointment for a person with strong investigative skills in addition to the three qualities we mentioned earlier. Would it not have been more appropriate to get someone who has performed well in other enforcement arms, such as the police, judiciary and even within the MACC itself?

Some names that come to mind who appear to have not been considered at all include former chief justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat, 67, two years younger than Halim.

Former chief justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat


If anyone should be brought out of retirement, it’s her. Give her a three-year contract, and I bet not a single Malaysian would doubt that she would make the MACC cleaner than it has ever been and put the right people in place to make major changes in fair and efficient enforcement above all.

There are other names if there is a will to find the right people to bring real, positive change. All this appointment demonstrates is that there is no commitment, and the powers that be have no intention of changing the status quo.

P GUNASEGARAM says that just as fish rot from the head, real sustainable change can only come from the top. Our leaders have been miserable failures.

Umno seeks audience with Negeri Sembilan ruler

Umno seeks audience with Negeri Sembilan ruler


3 HOURS AGO
Faiz Zainudin


Negeri Sembilan Umno wants to inform the Yang di-Pertuan Besar about the withdrawal of their support for the menteri besar

Istana Besar Seri Menanti, the official residence of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan. (Wikimedia Commons pic)

SEREMBAN: Negeri Sembilan Umno has requested an audience with the Yang di-Pertuan Besar, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir.

State Umno chief Jalaluddin Alias said they were seeking to meet the Negeri Sembilan ruler to inform him of the withdrawal of support by Barisan Nasional’s 14 assemblymen for menteri besar Aminuddin Harun.

He added that the request was submitted yesterday evening.


“For now, I have yet to be summoned to meet His Royal Highness. I am prepared to meet him anytime,” he said at a press conference at the Negeri Sembilan Umno headquarters here.

Jalaluddin also suggested that an emergency state assembly sitting be held to determine the position of Aminuddin and his state government.

“A special sitting must be called to resolve this political crisis and safeguard stability as well as the state government’s interests.”

Jalaluddin dismissed speculation that he might succeed Aminuddin as menteri besar, denying that he harboured such ambition.

“The Yang di-Pertuan Besar decides who is menteri besar, not me, so that has never been the goal,” he added.

Negeri Sembilan BN, which has 14 assemblymen, claimed to have the numbers to form a new state government with the backing of Perikatan Nasional’s five representatives.

Pakatan Harapan has 17 assemblymen. However, Aminuddin said yesterday that Tuanku Muhriz wanted him to remain in the top post until the issue of his majority support was resolved.

Issues concerning Negeri Sembilan undangs being addressed, says PM

Issues concerning Negeri Sembilan undangs being addressed, says PM


The prime minister says the issues are being addressed through proper legal channels

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said he supported Negeri Sembilan’s Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir’s stand that Aminuddin Harun should continue as menteri besar.

PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says issues concerning Negeri Sembilan’s undangs, or chieftains, are being addressed through proper legal channels amid a political crisis in the state.

He said he had an audience with Yang di-Pertuan Besar Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir last night to discuss developments involving the royal institution and the state administration.

“The federal government will give the state its full cooperation to ensure the continuity of economic progress and public wellbeing,” he said in a statement today.


Anwar also said he supported Tuanku Muhriz’s stand that Aminuddin Harun should continue his duties as menteri besar, and expressed his confidence in the PKR vice-president’s experience and track record.

“In all matters, the sanctity of the royal institution and state laws must be preserved and defended.

“I call on the public, especially in Negeri Sembilan, to continue being prudent, respectful and orderly, particularly when discussing matters relating to the royal institution and the state’s laws,” he said.

The Negeri Sembilan crisis arose after Mubarak Dohak, the former undang of Sungai Ujong, announced the removal of Tuanku Muhriz as Yang di-Pertuan Besar at a press conference on April 19 with the three other undangs.

However, Aminuddin said the state government did not recognise Tuanku Muhriz’s removal, as Mubarak had been lawfully removed as undang on May 13 last year for contravening 33 customary laws.

Following that, all 14 Umno assemblymen announced they had withdrawn support for Aminuddin as the menteri besar, saying it was linked to the crisis involving the chieftains and Tuanku Muhriz.

The state’s Barisan Nasional chapter then claimed it had a simple majority in the 36-seat assembly to form the state government, with the support of Perikatan Nasional’s five assemblymen.

Earlier, Anwar called on Negeri Sembilan BN to prioritise harmony and stability amid the current economic challenges, saying it was not the right time to be grappling for positions.

The Pakatan Harapan chairman said he might meet his BN counterpart, Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, later today to discuss the state’s political crisis.

‘I’m the victim but forced to resign’: Japanese prosecutor accusing boss of rape quits after independent probe rejected

‘I’m the victim but forced to resign’: Japanese prosecutor accusing boss of rape quits after independent probe rejected



A woman who alleges she was raped by her former boss takes part in an interview with AFP in Osaka on May 27, 2025. — AFP pic

Tuesday, 28 Apr 2026 4:06 PM MYT


TOKYO, April 28 — A Japanese prosecutor who publicly accused her boss of rape said on Tuesday she will resign after her office rejected a request for an independent probe into harassment within the organisation.


Very few women in Japan speak out about sexual assault but the prosecutor, who uses the pseudonym Hikari, came forward in 2024 to accuse Osaka’s then top prosecutor of raping her six years earlier.


Kentaro Kitagawa, who retired after serving as head of the Osaka District Public Prosecutor’s Office, was arrested and admitted the assault but later withdrew his statement, saying the sex was consensual.

“I feel it’s hopeless to return to work,” Hikari, who has been on leave since before coming forward, told AFP.


“So this is a painful decision I have to make to protect my life,” she said, adding that she will submit a resignation letter on April 30.


Hikari has made a request to the justice ministry and the prosecutors’ office that a third-party panel be set up to investigate cases involving others in the legal profession, and to implement measures to prevent harassment.

She has previously said she was “certain that there are other instances of harassment and additional offences” besides those involving her.


But the prosecutors’ office said authorities would “refrain from responding” as Hikari also filed a suit against the state last month, seeking compensation.

Public records show that 21 people at prosecutors’ offices have been disciplined for sexual violence in the past 16 years, according to Hikari.

She said people close to Kitagawa, especially an assistant prosecutor – whom Hikari says is his lover – have spread malicious rumours.

These included identifying the victim, whose name had not been made public, and claiming she had been attracted to Kitagawa, consented to sex and was sober.

Hikari was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and has been seeing a psychiatrist.

She filed a criminal complaint against the assistant prosecutor in 2025, but the Osaka prosecutor’s office dismissed it, only imposing a reprimand.

Hikari said she planned to file a petition with the prosecutorial review commission on Thursday.

Hikari has said she was not used to drinking strong alcohol and lost her memory halfway through an office gathering in 2018.

The next thing she knew, she said, she was in Kitagawa’s home and was being raped.

Hikari kept quiet after it happened, as Kitagawa had pleaded with her not to go public, saying it would be a damaging scandal for the organisation and threatening to harm himself, she said.

“It fills me with such bitterness that I, the victim, am forced to resign, while people who commit harassment continue working as if nothing had happened,” she said.

“I will keep on pushing for change at the prosecutor’s office so that it will truly serve the public.” — AFP

***

Very brave woman! I salute and support her

No deal after 30 years: Penang CM confirms talks failed before Waterfall Cafe demolition

No deal after 30 years: Penang CM confirms talks failed before Waterfall Cafe demolition



The Waterfall Cafe in Penang, near the entrance to the Botanic Gardens, before it was demolished on April 28, 2026. — Picture from Facebook/Prof. Dr. Ramasamy

Tuesday, 28 Apr 2026 2:47 PM MYT


GEORGE TOWN, April 28 — Talks between the Penang government and Waterfall Cafe have failed to produce a settlement, bringing to an end a decades-long dispute that has persisted since 1990, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said today.

He said the state had repeatedly engaged all relevant parties in an effort to reach a fair and practical solution, but all negotiation channels had ultimately failed.

“In principle, all active negotiation channels that were opened failed to reach a resolution,” he said in a statement.

He said all notices directing the premises to be vacated, issued by the Northeast district land administrator, including an eviction notice on January 4, 2024 were not complied with.


“Despite outstanding rental arrears, the state government through the Northeast District and Land Office (PDTTL) offered several reasonable options to Waterfall Cafe to relocate and continue operations,” he said.


He said the relocation offer included two units at the multi-storey car park building, the commercial plaza, for the future Penang Hill cable car project, as well as a temporary site throughout the construction period.

He said the cafe owners rejected the offers without clear justification.


“It should also be noted that during a coordination meeting on June 19 in 2023 chaired by the then Deputy Chief Minister II P. Ramasamy, it was agreed that Waterfall Cafe would relocate and settle its outstanding rental arrears,” he pointed out.

He said the commitment was not fulfilled.

Chow said the first eviction notice was issued on January 4 in 2024 and is followed by several rounds of discussions from February 19 in 2024.

“The final notice was issued on April 15 this year before enforcement action was carried out today,” he said.

The cafe, located near the entrance of the Botanic Gardens, was demolished by the authorities earlier today.

Muhyiddin’s trial: Mamfor’s RM19.5m ‘donations’ in 29 cheques to Bersatu flagged as suspicious, unusual to give money to political party, banker says

Muhyiddin’s trial: Mamfor’s RM19.5m ‘donations’ in 29 cheques to Bersatu flagged as suspicious, unusual to give money to political party, banker says



Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin pictured at the High Court in Kuala Lumpur, April 28, 2026. — Bernama pic

Tuesday, 28 Apr 2026 2:22 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 — Mamfor Sdn Bhd’s payment of RM19.5 million in frequent and large transactions in 2021 and 2022 as “donations” to Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia was unusual, and all 29 cheques used to pay the money was flagged internally as suspicious transactions, the High Court heard today.

Bank Muamalat’s PKNS Shah Alam assistant branch manager Norazeanti Miswan said this while testifying as the ninth prosecution witness in Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s corruption and money laundering trial.


Norazeanti said her bank branch had internally reported each of Mamfor’s 29 Bank Muamalat cheques, due to the “large and frequent withdrawals paid to” Bersatu.

“Yes, each transaction carried out, totalling 29, each of the transactions had a questionable activity report or internal suspicious transaction report that was sent to Bank Muamalat’s headquarters for further evaluation, as there was doubts on each transaction carried out by Mamfor Sdn Bhd,” she said.


Norazeanti explained that this was because each of the cheques ranged from RM500,000 to RM2 million, and as the transactions were continuously made from 2021 to 2022 to the same recipient.


Responding to lead prosecutor Datuk Wan Shaharuddin Wan Ladin, Norazeanti — who has been a banker for 16 years — said the RM19.5 million payments by Mamfor was unusual for a company “because I don’t see other companies doing such transactions.”

“Because normally, other companies will may payments in line with the nature of business of that company. I don’t see other companies paying to other political parties lah,” she said.


Earlier, Norazeanti said Mamfor’s nature of business was “construction”, but it had paid the RM19.5 million to Bersatu which is a political party.

Based on banking documents, Norazeanti said Mamfor had only stated “donation” as the purpose of paying the RM19.5 million to Bersatu, confirming that the company did not use the words “political donation”.

Asked by Wan Shaharuddin, she confirmed that Mamfor had only donated to Bersatu and did not make donations to other political parties, such as Umno, PAS and DAP.

She said Mamfor had closed its Bank Muamalat account on February 26 last year.

In this trial, Muhyiddin is facing seven charges, namely four counts of alleged power abuse to obtain RM225.3m bribes for Bersatu (from Nepturis Sdn Bhd, Azman Yusoff, Bukhary Equity Sdn Bhd, and RM19.5 million from Mamfor Sdn Bhd) and three counts of alleged money laundering through money that Bersatu received from Bukhary Equity.

The trial is being heard before High Court judge Noor Ruwena Md Nurdin.

N. Sembilan crisis to be settled through political negotiations, says Zahid

N. Sembilan crisis to be settled through political negotiations, says Zahid



Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the party had never interfered in the administration of the state government or matters involving Negeri Sembilan’s ‘adat’ laws. — Bernama pic

Tuesday, 28 Apr 2026 1:04 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 — The political crisis in Negeri Sembilan will be resolved through political means, Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said today.

Zahid said the party had never interfered in the administration of the state government or matters involving Negeri Sembilan’s adat laws, according to a report by Sinar Harian today.


“We will find the best solution to ensure a stable government in Negeri Sembilan can continue to serve and address the people’s problems,” he told reporters after officiating the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry enforcement day celebration in Cyberjaya today.

His remarks come after all 14 Barisan Nasional assemblymen in Negeri Sembilan unanimously withdrew support for the state government led by Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.


BN state chairman Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias said the decision followed a crisis involving the state’s adat institutions and constitutional matters.


The situation has drawn attention following claims involving the Undang Luak and discussions surrounding the position of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir.

Earlier, the state government said the Negeri Sembilan Council of Justice and Undang had advised Luak Sungai Ujong to accept the termination of Datuk Mubarak Dohak as holder of the Dato’ Klana Petra title.


The crisis has also led to the postponement of the Negeri Sembilan state legislative assembly sitting, which was originally scheduled to run for four days despite having been officially opened by the ruler last week.

Fadhli questions DAP’s principles on reps switching support

Fadhli questions DAP’s principles on reps switching support


PAS info chief says DAP had no issue with six now-former Bersatu MPs backing the unity government, thereby 'violating' their voters' mandate

PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari asked DAP secretary-general Loke Siew Fook whether he agreed that the six Bersatu MPs had violated their mandate by declaring support for the government.

PETALING JAYA: A PAS leader has questioned DAP secretary-general Loke Siew Fook’s consistency on the issue of elected representatives switching support, amid the political crisis in Negeri Sembilan.

PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari said Loke had accused Barisan Nasional’s (BN) 14 assemblymen of violating the mandate given by their voters in the 2023 state election, since they contested under the unity pact with Pakatan Harapan (PH).

“I want to ask Loke this: when the six Bersatu MPs declared support for the prime minister, did that violate the mandate given by their voters or not?


“Why did DAP also support the Dewan Rakyat speaker’s decision not to declare those six seats vacant, when they also clearly violated the mandate of the voters who elected them in the 2022 general election?” he said in a Facebook post.

The six Bersatu MPs who declared support for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim were Suhaili Abdul Rahman (Labuan), Syed Abu Hussin Hafiz Syed Abdul Fasal (Bukit Gantang), Azizi Abu Naim (Gua Musang), Dr Zulkafperi Hanapi (Tanjong Karang), Zahari Kechik (Jeli), and Iskandar Dzulkarnain Abdul Khalid (Kuala Kangsar).

Bersatu later said the MPs ceased to be party members after failing to respond to a notice to confirm their loyalty. Dewan Rakyat Speaker Johari Abdul ruled that this meant they were sacked by Bersatu, allowing the six MPs to keep their seats.

All six are now pro-government, independent MPs in the Dewan Rakyat.

Fadhli, the Pasir Mas MP, said the anti-hopping law did not bar parties from switching support en bloc, only individual MPs from defecting to other parties.

“At least Negeri Sembilan Umno decided en bloc (to retract support for the menteri besar) rather than through individual defections like the six Bersatu MPs.”


The 36-member Negeri Sembilan assembly comprises 17 PH assemblymen, followed by 14 from BN and five from Perikatan Nasional (PN). A majority of 19 seats is needed to form the state government.

Yesterday, the BN assemblymen withdrew their support for Aminuddin Harun and later announced that they had a simple majority to form a new administration, with the backing of PN’s five representatives.

Loke had slammed BN for its actions, saying that forming a “backdoor government” by unseating Aminuddin would be a betrayal of the mandate that the BN assemblymen received from Negeri Sembilan voters.

Aminuddin meanwhile said the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan wanted him to remain in the role until the issue of his majority support in the state assembly is clarified.

Review alliance with BN, DAP Youth urges PH

Review alliance with BN, DAP Youth urges PH


DAP Youth also urges BN chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to intervene in the Negeri Sembilan political crisis

DAP Youth said Negeri Sembilan BN’s attempt to form a new state government clearly contradicts the spirit of the unity government. (DAP Youth pic)

PETALING JAYA: DAP Youth has urged the Pakatan Harapan (PH) leadership to review its alliance with Barisan Nasional (BN) following Negeri Sembilan BN’s withdrawal of support for menteri besar Aminuddin Harun.

The wing said Negeri Sembilan BN’s attempt to form a new state government clearly contradicted the spirit of the unity government.

It added that the alliance with BN, even at the federal level, must be reviewed if there are clear signs that the coalition has a political agenda that would trigger instability.


“DAP Youth condemns all efforts or attempts aimed at forming a ‘backdoor’ government, whether involving political parties or individual (elected representatives).

“This practice damages democracy and builds an unprincipled political culture that prioritises power over the people’s interests,” it said in a statement.

DAP Youth also urged BN chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to intervene in the Negeri Sembilan political crisis.

Yesterday, Zahid said he would meet the 14 BN assemblymen to be briefed on their decision. The Umno president said the move was decided by the state chapter although he was informed about their plan.

Negeri Sembilan BN later said it had a simple majority to form a new state government, with the backing of Perikatan Nasional’s five assemblymen.

DAP Youth said parties that insist on threatening the unity government’s stability should be given the boot, especially from administrations led by PH.


PH also leads the Penang and Selangor state governments with a BN representative in each executive council.

The irony of loss of confidence in Negeri Sembilan MB — Hafiz Hassan

The irony of loss of confidence in Negeri Sembilan MB — Hafiz Hassan


Tuesday, 28 Apr 2026 8:23 AM MYT


APRIL 28 — The case of Nizar v Zambry decided by the Federal Court in 2010 is the lex classicus, as legal experts would term it, on the issue of confidence of the majority of members of a legislative assembly.


In that case, the Federal Court held that the loss of confidence in the Menteri Besar (MB) may not only be established through a vote in the state legislative assembly (SLA) but may also be gathered from other extraneous sources provided they are properly established. Such sources include representations made by members of the Perak SLA that the MB no longer enjoys the support of the majority of the members of the SLA.


In that case, there was a demonstration of support by 31 members of the SLA for Barisan Nasional (BN). This clearly pointed to the loss of confidence of the majority of the members of the SLA in the leadership of the incumbent MB, even without a vote in the SLA.

The Federal Court also held that it was incumbent upon the MB in the circumstances of the case to tender the resignation of the executive council. The term “executive council” by definition includes the MB. If the MB refuses to tender the resignation of the executive council, the MB and the executive council members are deemed to have vacated their respective offices.




Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun speaks during a press conference at his official residence in Seremban April 27, 2026. — Picture by Raymond Manuel

So, even if the MB is not removed by the Ruler, it matters not since the MB would be deemed to have vacated his office.


What must follow is for a member of the SLA to seek an audience with the Ruler to present to His Majesty that he has the confidence of the majority of members of the SLA. In the case of the Negeri Sembilan SLA, the number is 19.

The 14 members of Negeri Sembilan Umno and Barisan Nasional have already declared yesterday that they have obtained a simple majority to form the state government through cooperation with five Perikatan Nasional members of the SLA.


The irony is the audience is with the Ruler who is sought to be deposed or removed in accordance with the Laws of the Constitution of Negeri Sembilan 1959.

Second-hand embarrassment? Germany says US being ‘humiliated’ by Iran in peace talks

Second-hand embarrassment? Germany says US being ‘humiliated’ by Iran in peace talks



German Chancellor Friedrich Merz speaks during a press conference after an informal meeting of the European Council in Nicosia on April 24, 2026. — AFP pic

Tuesday, 28 Apr 2026 9:27 AM MYT


BERLIN, April 28 — German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Monday Iran’s leadership was ‌humiliating the United States and getting US officials to travel to Pakistan and then leave ​without results, in an unusually abrupt rebuke over the conflict.


Merz also said he not see what exit strategy the US was pursuing in the Iran war- comments that underlined deep divisions between Washington and its European ​Nato allies, which had already been festering over Ukraine and other issues.


“The Iranians are obviously very skilled at negotiating, or rather, very skilful at not negotiating, letting the Americans travel to Islamabad and then leave again without any result,” he said during a talk to students in the town of Marsberg.

“An entire nation is being ‌humiliated by the Iranian leadership, especially by these so-called Revolutionary Guards. And so I hope that ⁠this ends as quickly as possible,” he ⁠added at the venue in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia.


US ⁠President Donald Trump has harshly ⁠criticised Nato allies for ⁠not sending their navies to help open the Strait of Hormuz during the conflict. The waterway has remained virtually shut, causing market turmoil and unprecedented disruption in energy supplies.


Merz reiterated that Germans ⁠and Europeans were not consulted before the US and Israel started attacking Iran on February 28, and that he had conveyed his scepticism directly to Trump afterwards.

“If I had known that it would continue like this for five or six weeks and get progressively worse, I would have told him even more emphatically,” Merz said, comparing it to previous US ⁠wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.


Hopes of reviving peace efforts have receded since Trump scrapped a visit on Saturday by his envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to ⁠Islamabad, the Pakistani capital.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi travelled to Russia on Monday after failed talks ⁠in Pakistan ⁠and Oman.

Merz said it was evident the Strait of Hormuz had been at least partially mined. “We ​have offered, also as Europeans, to send German minesweepers ​to clear the strait, which has obviously been ‌mined in part,” he said.

He said the conflict was ​costing Germany “a lot of money, ​a lot of taxpayers’ money and a lot of economic strength.” — Reuters