Activist Tamim Dahri, three others arrested over temple statue vandalism

Activist Tamim Dahri, three others arrested over temple statue vandalism


Police have arrested three individuals, including activist Tamim Dahri Abdul Razak, over the alleged vandalism of four statues at a temple near the New Pantai Expressway

Updated 1 hour ago · Published on 15 Oct 2026 5:43PM

Investigations are ongoing to establish the motive (File pic) - October 15, 2026



THREE people, including activist Tamim Dahri Abdul Razak, have been arrested to assist investigations into the alleged vandalism of four statues at a temple near the New Pantai Expressway (NPE) in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday.

Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Fadil Marsus said the suspects were detained in Beranang at about 11am following two police reports lodged over the incident.

“The incident caused damage to the four statues, and the total losses are still being assessed,” he said in a statement today.

Fadil said all three suspects were subsequently released on police bail on Tuesday.

He added that the investigation papers would be referred to the state prosecution office, while police continued to establish the cause of the incident and the motive behind the alleged act.

The case is being investigated under Section 295 of the Penal Code, which concerns the destruction, damage or defilement of a place of worship with the intention of insulting the religion of a class of people.

The four statues were reportedly the subject of prior discussions involving Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), the land office and police over arrangements for their relocation.

On Oct 8, PKR vice-president Datuk Seri R. Ramanan called for an immediate and thorough police investigation to ensure those responsible were brought to justice. - October 15, 2026

'She is finished’: Hassan rues backing Nurul Izzah for PKR no 2

'She is finished’: Hassan rues backing Nurul Izzah for PKR no 2

N Faizal Ghazali

Published: Oct 15, 2026 2:56 PM


Twenty-six years ago, in November 2000, Hassan Abdul Karim was tasked with guarding Nurul Izzah Anwar after PKR received intelligence that she might be targeted during the Lunas by-election campaign.

At the time, she was a 21-year-old fresh graduate. Hassan, then a key figure in Parti Rakyat Malaysia (PRM) before its merger with PKR, immediately saw immense potential in the young "puteri reformasi".

But now, Hassan could barely conceal his disillusionment over Nurul Izzah’s (above) decision to step back from active politics.

"I feel she is finished," Hassan said softly, pausing for a moment.


"When a leader goes missing in action and leaves the battleground, the grassroots lose confidence. I was one of her strongest supporters, yet even I feel aggrieved and uneasy," he lamented.

Speaking on KiniTV’s "Explain Sikit" podcast, hosted by Malaysiakini editors Yiswaree Palansamy and Jimadie Shah Othman, Hassan (below) denied feeling betrayed but admitted he now regrets backing her bid against Rafizi Ramli for the PKR deputy presidency race last May.


"To say I feel betrayed is too strong. But it feels like it would have been better if Rafizi had simply continued (as deputy president). Did I make a mistake supporting her?

"The word I would use is disappointed. But what’s done is done. We can't turn back the clock," the Pasir Gudang MP said.


Nurul Izzah confirmed in an Aug 6 Facebook post that she intended to step down from her party post to pursue her studies, and even referred to Saifuddin Nasution Ismail as "deputy president".

PKR information chief Fahmi Fadzil later clarified that while the central leadership received her resignation, they granted her temporary leave instead.

READ MORE: Nurul Izzah details dreams of a PKR immune to factions and 'hidden hands'


The contest between Nurul Izzah and Rafizi last May fuelled internal rifts in PKR, which later saw several prominent members leave the party and join a splinter movement led by Rafizi and former PKR vice-president Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.

‘Leaders don’t run from crisis’

Hassan, a former Johor PKR chairperson, said a leader’s mettle is measured not in calm waters, but in times of crisis, when standing firm matters most.

"... I was far away in Pasir Gudang, believing Nurul Izzah had the ability and a vital role to play. But when a slight crisis emerged after the party election, and she chose to resign, I felt deeply disappointed.

"Leaders are forged in a crisis, not by running away from one. In that test, she failed," Hassan remarked.

Despite his criticism, the 75-year-old lawmaker acknowledged Nurul Izzah’s intellect, charisma, and parliamentary track record.

"When she spoke in Parliament, she came prepared and spoke with substance. Look at Syed Saddiq (Syed Abdul Rahman) today... that was her (then)," he noted.


Soft spot for Rafizi

Turning to Rafizi, Hassan maintained a surprisingly mild stance, despite Rafizi’s frequent broadsides against Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's administration.

While Hassan is known for calling out party "traitors", he still views Rafizi (below) as an ally, and revealed that he had personally advised Rafizi to lie low and avoid attacking Anwar directly.


"(I advised him) not to be too harsh. Lie low, rebuild support among PKR grassroots, and in the next party election, team up with Nurul Izzah. Rafizi as president, and Nurul Izzah as deputy," Hassan shared.

He added that while Nurul Izzah was not yet ready for the presidency, Rafizi was.

"Both are young, but I was told Rafizi has reached a point of no return," the lawyer-cum-politician noted.


A general without warriors

Looking ahead to the 16th general election, Hassan views Anwar as a "general" forced into his final battle without key lieutenants following Nurul Izzah’s retreat and Rafizi’s departure.

"Looking at Johor and Negeri Sembilan, Anwar was the 'general', and I pity him. His remaining 'lieutenants' lack the clout that Rafizi has. That is the reality," he lamented.

On Pakatan Harapan's preparations for upcoming state polls, Hassan urged the coalition to reinforce internal unity rather than compromise on principles just to win seats.


He emphasised that the alliance between PKR, Amanah, and DAP must remain steadfast, cautioning against overdependence on external pacts like Umno at the state level.

"This is better than having internal friction between PKR, DAP, and Amanah when we are already weakened.

Otherwise, the public will see us as unprincipled opportunists just trying to win the easy way," Hassan warned.

How a student put KJ and Johor MB on the spot over Najib fundraiser, TH scandal

How a student put KJ and Johor MB on the spot over Najib fundraiser, TH scandal

Published: Oct 15, 2026 3:36 PM


A clip of a Universiti Malaya student's fiery remarks about the Tabung Haji scandal and the fundraiser to help Najib Abdul Razak pay a RM50 million fine has caught public attention.

Ummi Umairah Bakhit lamented that corruption was on the rise and wanted to know how future leaders should make a stand.

"There is the Tabung Haji scandal, which involves some political figures, and the stupidest thing I've seen in my entire life is people donating to Najib - someone who clearly has a worthwhile corruption case, 1MDB, and is clearly linked to corruption.

"How would you advise future leaders to speak against corruption and feudalism, think critically and speak with facts and statistical data?" she asked.


READ MORE: SNAPSHOT | Najib donation drive reaches RM1m; MACC quizzes Mat Sabu, ministry sec-gen over fertiliser deliveries delay

The question was posed during a Higher Education Ministry-backed dialogue featuring Khairy Jamaluddin, Selangor Menteri Besar Amirudin Shari and his Johor counterpart Onn Hafiz Ghazi, on Monday

Khairy lauded the question and answered bluntly: "What's wrong is wrong".

"We shouldn't be afraid of talking about corruption even if it involves our leaders. What's wrong is wrong, what you can't defend, don't defend... mismanagement is mismanagement.


"If there is a case, we have to answer for it, and never compromise when it comes to integrity. I say this as someone who has served in that government," the former minister stated.


During the 1MDB saga, Khairy (above) was among those who expressed concern about the investment firm’s ability to pay off its debts.

However, he was also among those who denied any element of corruption when allegations surfaced that US$681 million (often converted to RM2.6 billion) of 1MDB funds had made its way into Najib’s personal accounts.


Similar to many other cabinet members, Khairy also peddled the narrative that it was a political donation from Saudi royalty.

READ MORE: Khairy: Defend Najib even if you're called 'macai'

He changed his tune after BN lost the 2018 general election and has been critical of Najib and the 1MDB scandal since.

‘Glad youths are concerned about graft’

In a brief response to Umairah, Amirudin said he was glad that youths are still concerned about corruption - adding that it has been a longstanding problem.

As for Onn, the Johor menteri besar started by saying that corruption is a cancer that impedes progress.

However, he said that policies and the fight against corruption must be fair and consistent - and that enforcement agencies should not be weaponised for political benefit.

"You must apply the law regardless of political party, and in my opinion, what has been happening these past few months is political persecution, selective prosecution," Onn (below) added.


He then warned that Muslims leaders who betray their responsibilities - be it through graft or abuse of power - will be answerable to God in the future even if they get away with it now.

Fear of losing

During the session, Khairy also answered questions from UM student union leader Aiman Izzat Shamsuddin on whether leaders should prioritise making quick decisions or making the right decision.

Khairy said that many politicians are afraid of making tough decisions because they are afraid of losing elections.

"It's because we think about the next election, and not the next generation. That's the curse that politicians have and we need politicians who think about the next generation, not the next election only," he said.

However, Khairy admitted that talk is cheap, and that it becomes harder once one is in power.


He said that every prime minister has wanted to do the right thing, but only Dr Mahathir Mohamad could pull it off during his first run as premier due to the latter's ability to win elections.

"Now you can't even win a majority. No party can win an outright majority. So, they're afraid.

"So, what I'm saying is, choose leaders who are not afraid to lose.

"I have lost, and I am not afraid of losing. So, choose leaders who are not afraid to lose," he added.

COMMENT | Najib's clemency bid could backfire despite lawyer's argument

COMMENT | Najib's clemency bid could backfire despite lawyer's argument

Mohamed Hanipa Maidin

Published: Oct 15, 2026 4:11 PM


COMMENT | Former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak’s legal team has disputed the High Court’s ruling that he can no longer be considered a first-time offender due to his prior conviction in the SRC International case.

Lead defence counsel Shafee Abdullah argued that because the offences in the SRC and 1MDB trials occurred around the same period, they should not be treated as separate instances of repeat offending.

A repeat offender is generally referred to as a recidivist or habitual criminal, and it is often defined as someone who commits a crime or offence multiple times, particularly continuing to break the law after already being convicted or penalised for a prior offence.

Although semantic nuances may arguably shield Najib from that specific descriptor, the fact remains clear: he was convicted beyond a reasonable doubt of numerous criminal charges concerning widespread misappropriation of public funds in his SRC and 1MDB trials.


The indisputable fact is that Najib is a convicted felon who, by judicial standards, is not a candidate for leniency.

Perhaps, in dismissing his application for a stay, the judiciary did not view Najib as someone who qualifies for lenient treatment.

The bench likely determined that he completely failed to satisfy the “special circumstances” test, which serves as the core legal standard for granting a stay.


Admission of guilt?

Additionally, the former prime minister may not fully grasp the legal implications of his recent application for a pardon.

While applying for clemency is entirely legal, it could equally and severely undermine his broader case.

By seeking a pardon, the court may interpret his actions as an indirect acknowledgement that his previous criminal conviction in the SRC trial was legally correct and justified.


Ultimately, receiving clemency does not expunge or wipe away the underlying criminal conviction. Yes, it does not erase a criminal conviction from a person’s record.

Although a court typically weighs an individual’s prior criminal record when granting or denying a stay, this remains just one of several elements under judicial consideration.

In other words, history of recidivism does not constitute the exclusive basis for the court’s ruling.


Najib's place is behind bars

The public genuinely hopes the Court of Appeal will throw out his application for a stay of execution as well.

Given how severe his crimes are, there is only one place he belongs - behind bars, without exception.

Najib’s case serves as a definitive, textbook illustration of a breach of public trust and a quintessential example of a severe breach of fiduciary duty.

MOHAMED HANIPA MAIDIN is a former deputy minister of law.

 

Musk calls on Zelensky to ‘go’ as Ukraine leader

Musk calls on Zelensky to ‘go’ as Ukraine leader

5 hours ago

AFP

Elon Musk's remarks come as Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky raises concerns over Washington's military and intelligence support amid tensions over Starlink disruptions.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky (left) called on Elon Musk to restore Starlink, developed by Musk’s SpaceX company, which Kyiv says has been slowed down. (File pic)

WASHINGTON:

Tech billionaire Elon Musk called on Wednesday for Volodymyr Zelensky to “go” as Ukraine’s president, as Kyiv raised doubts over US support for the war-torn country.

Ukraine accused the US this week of helping Russia by failing to warn it of incoming missile strikes and hobbling Kyiv’s military response through changes to Musk’s satellite system, which it uses for communications.

“And so the slaughter continues,” Musk wrote on X. “Time for Zelensky to go,” he said.

Zelensky had called on Musk to restore Starlink, which was designed by the mogul’s SpaceX company and which Kyiv says has been slowed down.

Musk said any disruption was the responsibility of the US government.

He drew a distinction between Starshield, which Ukraine relies on for battlefield communications and which he said was controlled by the US government, and the Starlink civilian satellite system, which Ukraine also deploys but is not allowed to use for offensive operations.

The row comes after Zelensky replied in the affirmative when asked if he felt “betrayed” after US president Donald Trump announced a diesel-supply deal with heavily sanctioned Moscow.

A senior official in Kyiv also said that the US had in recent days threatened to stop providing intelligence about Russian missile launches that Ukraine uses to thwart attacks – which Trump has denied.

Trump, facing key midterm elections next month in which soaring fuel prices are a major issue, has blamed Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refineries for the squeeze on supplies and increase in prices at the pump.

Woman brushing teeth behind wheel flashes middle finger before kicking auxiliary cop in groin at Glo Damansara

Woman brushing teeth behind wheel flashes middle finger before kicking auxiliary cop in groin at Glo Damansara



What began as a routine parking reprimand turned into an alleged assault after a woman flashed her middle finger while brushing her teeth. — Picture by Raymond Manuel


Summary

• In a peculiar incident at Glo Damansara, a woman brushing her teeth while driving allegedly confronted an auxiliary police officer with an obscene gesture and physical assault, before escaping.
• The confrontation occurred when the officer, noticing her car parked improperly, attempted to reprimand her.
• The suspect fled the scene, prompting a police search, with the case being investigated under Section 323 for causing hurt and Section 14 for insulting behavior.

First Published: Thursday, 15 Oct 2026 5:12 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 15 — A woman who was allegedly brushing her teeth behind the wheel flashed her middle finger at an auxiliary police officer before getting out of her car and kicking him in the groin during a bizarre confrontation at Glo Damansara yesterday.

The woman then managed to escape after a struggle with the 30-year-old officer, leaving police hunting for her following the incident in Taman Tun Dr Ismail (TTDI).

According to Utusan Malaysia, the drama unfolded at about 8.38am when the officer, who was on stationary duty, spotted a Hyundai Inokom parked facing the wrong direction.


The driver was also allegedly honking at other vehicles for no apparent reason.


Brickfields district police chief ACP Hoo Chang Hook said the officer approached the car to reprimand the woman and instruct her to move her vehicle.

But instead of complying, the woman allegedly responded with an obscene gesture — all while brushing her teeth.

“However, the suspect made an obscene gesture by raising her middle finger while brushing her teeth.


“The suspect then got out of the vehicle and attempted to attack the officer before kicking him in the groin,” Hoo said, as quoted by the national daily.

The officer called for backup as he struggled with the woman and attempted to detain her, but she managed to flee before other personnel could intervene.

Police have since launched a search for the suspect.

“Efforts are actively underway to locate the suspect.

“The case is being investigated under Section 323 of the Penal Code and Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955,” Hoo said.

Section 323 covers voluntarily causing hurt, while Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act concerns insulting behaviour.

Court of Appeal upholds 30‑year jail, 12 strokes for trader who hid step‑brother’s body in cement drum

Court of Appeal upholds 30‑year jail, 12 strokes for trader who hid step‑brother’s body in cement drum



The Court of Appeal today upheld a 30-year jail sentence and 12 strokes of the cane imposed on a former trader for murdering his step-brother and concealing the body in a cement-filled drum. — Unsplash pic


Summary

• The Court of Appeal in Putrajaya has affirmed a 30-year imprisonment and 12 strokes of the cane for Mohamad Zamhuri Azami, convicted of murdering his step-brother, Mohd Hasnul Nizar Khairul Anuar, and disposing of the body in a cement-filled drum.
• The appellate court, comprised of three judges, rejected appeals from both the defense and prosecution, stating the original sentence was appropriate.
• The defense's claim of self-defense was dismissed, as evidence indicated the crime exceeded culpable homicide not amounting to murder, and the prosecution's appeal for the death penalty was denied due to insufficient grounds.

First Published: Thursday, 15 Oct 2026 7:02 PM MYT


PUTRAJAYA, Oct 15 — The Court of Appeal today upheld a 30-year jail sentence and 12 strokes of the cane imposed on a former trader for murdering his step-brother and concealing the body in a cement-filled drum.

A three-judge panel comprising Justices Datuk Noorin Badaruddin, Datuk Meor Hashimi Abdul Hamid and Datuk Seri Latifah Mohd Tahar unanimously dismissed Mohamad Zamhuri Azami’s appeal against his conviction and sentence.

The panel also dismissed the prosecution’s appeal to impose the death penalty on the 31-year-old accused.


Delivering the court’s unanimous decision, Justice Noorin said the sentence imposed by the High Court was appropriate and did not warrant appellate intervention.


“We also find no sufficient grounds to replace the sentence with the death penalty or a 40-year prison term, as requested by the prosecution,” she said.

Justice Noorin said the possibility of an argument or altercation between the appellant and the deceased did not, in itself, establish that the fatal act was justified under the defence of private defence.

She also said the prosecution had successfully established the necessary intention through the evidence presented, leaving no grounds to substitute the conviction with one under Section 304(a) of the Penal Code for culpable homicide not amounting to murder.


On May 13 last year, the Alor Setar High Court found Mohamad Zamhuri guilty of murdering Mohd Hasnul Nizar Khairul Anuar, 34, and sentenced him to 30 years in prison and 12 strokes of the cane.

The offence was committed at their home in Kampung Padang Hassan, Bukit Pinang, Alor Setar, Kedah, at 7.15pm on March 6, 2020.

According to the facts of the case, the appellant led police to the location where the victim’s body was concealed in a blue plastic drum filled with cement outside the house. Police also seized a meat-cleaving knife.

During today’s proceedings, defence counsel Ai Cha Ran argued that his client had not intended to kill his step-brother, claiming that the deceased had attacked him during an altercation and that he had acted in self-defence.

He further submitted that the evidence supported only a charge of culpable homicide not amounting to murder under Section 304(a) of the Penal Code.

However, Deputy Public Prosecutor Nur Aqilah Syaza Ariffin argued that the pathologist’s testimony showed that the victim’s injuries, particularly a long and deep incised wound to the neck, were inconsistent with the defence’s account of a fight or struggle. — Bernama

Teenagers among 14 charged in Gurun murder, victim allegedly tortured before body found near golf club

Teenagers among 14 charged in Gurun murder, victim allegedly tortured before body found near golf club



Fourteen individuals, including two teenagers, were charged at the Magistrate’s Court here in Gurun with the murder of a 19-year-old youth. — Bernama pic


Summary

• Fourteen individuals, including two teenagers, have been charged in the Magistrate's Court in Gurun with the murder of 19-year-old Muhammad Haikal Mohd Shahrilnizam.
• The incident allegedly involved detaining and torturing the victim before his body was found near Jalan Harvard Golf Club.
• The charges fall under Section 302 of the Penal Code, pending further proceedings in the High Court, with the next mention set for December 23.
• Only three of the accused are currently represented by legal counsel, with the prosecution led by Deputy Public Prosecutor Nik Nurhazirah Tuan Yahya.

First Published: Thursday, 15 Oct 2026 3:02 PM MYT


GURUN, Oct 15 — Fourteen individuals, including two teenagers, were charged at the Magistrate’s Court here today with the murder of a 19-year-old youth last week.

The accused are Muhammad Asyraaf Muhammad Zaidi, 20; Muhammad Azrul Rahimi Muhamad Yusri, 18; Ahmad Izzul Irfan Ridduan, 21; Muhammad Rhahimy Abdul Rashid, 19; Yusman Hakimi Yusmezal, 24; Muhammad Zulfaqar Zulkarnain Khairol Fais, 21; and Muhammad Aiman Riduwan Abdullah, 21.

The other accused are Ahmad Aiman Danial Ahmad Wizam, 21; Muhammad Adam Haris Rosdan, 21; Muhammad Muqkriz Azizan, 21; Muhammad Adam Iqbal Mohd Wazir, 19; Syafiq Afif Syarafuddin Abd Ghapar, 23; and two teenagers aged 16 and 17.


They were jointly charged with murdering Muhammad Haikal Mohd Shahrilnizam, 19, at an unnumbered house in Jalan Sungai Petani here, between 9pm on Oct 5 and 7.30am on Oct 8.


However, no pleas were recorded after the charges were read out before Magistrate Anis Suraya Ahmad, as murder cases fall under the jurisdiction of the High Court.

They were charged under Section 302 of the Penal Code, read together with Section 34 of the same Act, which provides for the death penalty or imprisonment of between 30 and 40 years, and at least 12 strokes of the cane upon conviction.

Deputy public prosecutor Nik Nurhazirah Tuan Yahya led the prosecution. Only three of the accused, Muhammad Azrul Rahimi, Ahmad Izzul Irfan and Muhammad Zulfaqar Zulkarnain, were represented by lawyer Mohamad Ashraf Ahmad Sohaimi. The remaining accused were unrepresented.


The court fixed Dec 23 for the next mention of the case, pending the chemical and forensic reports.

Media reports previously stated that Muhammad Haikal was allegedly held captive and tortured for two days before his body was dumped in the bushes near Jalan Harvard Golf Club on Oct 8. — Bernama

***

"... allegedly held captive and tortured for two days ..." - FRIGGING EXCEEDINGLY CRUEL 😡😡😡

OCT 07 FALSE FLAG

Lord Moloch accepting votive offerings from the Shailoks

Lim Guan Eng urges Malaysia to sue Indonesia over haze if Jakarta rejects Asean firefighting task force

Lim Guan Eng urges Malaysia to sue Indonesia over haze if Jakarta rejects Asean firefighting task force



Motorcyclists ride in the morning in Palangkaraya, Central Kalimantan on October 14, 2026, amid thick haze from forest and land fires in the region. — AFP pic


Summary

• Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng has urged Malaysia to consider legal action against Indonesia if it refuses cooperation in forming a permanent ASEAN firefighting task force to address the transboundary haze crisis.
• Highlighting the significant impact on public health, livelihoods, and economic prosperity, Lim called for a coordinated regional approach and criticized Indonesia's reluctance to accept international assistance.
• He also emphasized the need for Malaysia to support those economically affected by the haze and proposed establishing a permanent regional task force to address forest and land fires proactively.

First Published: Thursday, 15 Oct 2026 2:53 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 15 — Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng has urged Malaysia to consider legal action against Indonesia to seek compensation for the worsening transboundary haze crisis if Jakarta refuses to cooperate with a proposed permanent Asean firefighting task force.

Lim said the recurring crisis, which has forced schools to close and disrupted livelihoods, could no longer be treated as an annual inconvenience, calling for a coordinated regional response to tackle forest and land fires at their source.

In his speech during the Budget 2027 debate in the Dewan Rakyat today, the former finance minister proposed establishing a permanent Asean task force involving Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and the Philippines, with rescue personnel available throughout the year to respond swiftly to outbreaks of forest and land fires.


The call comes as Malaysia continues to grapple with deteriorating air quality caused by smoke from forest and land fires in Indonesia, with 34 of the country’s 68 air monitoring stations recording unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings as of 10am today.


Klang and Johan Setia in Selangor recorded the highest readings at 192, approaching the very unhealthy threshold of 201. The haze has also disrupted daily life, with schools in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and several states ordered to close on October 9 to protect students from exposure to polluted air.

“If the Indonesian government continues to reject the Asean task force on grounds of national sovereignty, the Malaysian government will have no choice but to initiate legal action to seek compensation,” he said, according to the text of his speech.

“Malaysians can no longer remain silent and take no action in the face of this recurring haze crisis.”


The DAP national adviser said forest and land fires in Indonesia had affected an estimated 300,000 hectares this year, an area more than 70 per cent larger than that recorded in 2025.

He also criticised Jakarta for what he described as its reluctance to accept foreign assistance, including offers from Malaysia, despite the growing scale of the fires.

“It is deeply regrettable that the Indonesian government has refused to continue accepting international assistance from Japan, which has already ended, or to promptly accept offers of assistance from foreign countries, including Malaysia,” he said.

“Its justification is that Indonesia is capable of handling the forest and land fires, although the reality suggests otherwise.”

Lim argued that a permanent regional response team, rather than temporary arrangements activated only during emergencies, would allow ASEAN countries to tackle fires before the resulting smoke spread across national borders.

He also called on the Malaysian government to provide financial assistance to people whose incomes have been affected by the haze, particularly gig economy workers and Grab drivers who rely on outdoor work.

“Our schools have been closed, while workers, particularly those in the gig economy and Grab drivers, have been forced to stop working because of the haze crisis,” he said.

“The long-term health effects have yet to be determined. In short, the government should provide financial assistance to those affected.”

Lim said the haze was threatening not only public health and children’s safety but also Malaysia’s economic prosperity, making a lasting regional solution increasingly urgent.

His proposals formed part of a wider speech in support of Budget 2027, which was tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on October 9.

The haze has become a growing regional concern, with fires in Indonesia affecting air quality across neighbouring countries, including Malaysia and Singapore.

On October 11, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said Malaysia was still awaiting Indonesia’s response to its offer to send a firefighting aircraft, three helicopters and 52 personnel to help tackle the blazes, according to Bernama.

Indonesia, meanwhile, said on October 13 that it would assess foreign offers of assistance based on their effectiveness in supporting firefighting operations, according to CNA.

***

As former Oz PM Paul Keating once said of Australia dealing with the haughty Wankees, which applies to Malaysia dealing with the Indons: "How does one deal with a 500lb gorilla when in the same cage?"

IMF warns Saudi Arabia and Gulf economies may take years to recover from war, Saudi economy projected to shrink 3.3pc

IMF warns Saudi Arabia and Gulf economies may take years to recover from war, Saudi economy projected to shrink 3.3pc



The IMF on Tuesday released projections showing that the Middle East and Central Asia region—directly exposed to the Iran war—is expected to contract 0.3 per cent in 2026. — AFP pic


Summary

• The International Monetary Fund (IMF) anticipates a slow recovery for Middle Eastern economies heavily impacted by ongoing conflicts involving Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Houthis, and regional tensions originating from Iran.
• The IMF projects a recession for Gulf economies, with Saudi Arabia expected to experience a significant economic shrinkage of 3.3% by 2026.
• These projections reflect the long-term economic disruptions due to infrastructure damage and the need for increased resilience spending amidst the persistent geopolitical instability affecting the energy sector.

First Published: Thursday, 15 Oct 2026 3:12 PM MYT


BANGKOK, Oct 15 — The International Monetary Fund expects energy-rich Middle Eastern economies to bounce back, but not in the medium term, the organisation’s regional chief said today, as fighting continued between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthis.

The statement comes as the IMF projects a widespread contraction in Gulf economies following months of war that began in Iran and has now spread to Saudi Arabia and Yemen, with maritime energy traffic still impacted.

“We will not go back to the pre-war trajectory in the medium term because this shock will have a scarring impact on various sectors and also will disrupt a certain number of infrastructure, and will require additional spending in order to increase resilience,” IMF regional director Jihad Azour told reporters.


The warning comes as officials and experts huddled in Bangkok this week to discuss headwinds facing the global economy, including stubbornly high energy costs and questions over the sustainability of the artificial intelligence boom.


The IMF on Tuesday released projections showing that the Middle East and Central Asia region—directly exposed to the Iran war—is expected to contract 0.3 per cent in 2026.

Saudi Arabia is among the worst affected, with its economy projected to shrink 3.3 per cent.

The projection points to a rare recession for the Gulf kingdom, which has long been buffered by robust energy exports.


Yesterday, IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva warned that ongoing attacks targeting Saudi Arabia could affect people “everywhere”.

A violent battle between a Saudi-led coalition and Yemen’s Houthis has sharply escalated in recent days, with fatal missile strikes hitting airports and energy facilities, as well as the headquarters of the kingdom’s state oil giant Aramco. — AFP

***

Thank Israel for ordering the stupid Global Moron to attack Iran for no reason other than shailok-ish fears of Persians

Seven seats in play, 21 firmly held: Zahid stakes out BN’s position in Melaka

Seven seats in play, 21 firmly held: Zahid stakes out BN’s position in Melaka



Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the coalition intends to retain all 21 seats it won in the previous Melaka state election, leaving the remaining seven constituencies open for negotiations with Perikatan Nasional’s component parties. — Picture by Yusof Isa


Summary

• Barisan Nasional (BN) is firm on retaining the 21 seats it won in the previous Melaka state election, leaving the remaining seven constituencies open for negotiation among Perikatan Nasional's (PN) parties ahead of the upcoming polls.
• BN Chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi emphasized the coalition's stance on seat retention and potential seat swaps while downplaying prospects for cooperation with Pakatan Harapan (PH).
• Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh is tasked with finalizing BN's electoral strategy, with decisions expected before the nomination day on October 31.
• The Melaka election is set for November 14, following BN's commanding victory in 2021.

First Published: Thursday, 15 Oct 2026 4:25 PM MYT
Last Modified: Thursday, 15 Oct 2026 4:31 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 15 — Barisan Nasional (BN) has said it will retain the 21 seats it won in the previous Melaka state election, leaving Perikatan Nasional’s (PN) component parties to negotiate over the remaining seven constituencies as discussions over electoral cooperation continue ahead of next month’s polls.

BN chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the coalition was holding talks with PN’s core parties following the suspension of activities by the Opposition coalition, but made clear that BN had no intention of giving up the seats it currently holds.

“Our principle is that the 21 seats we won are not seats that we intend to share,” he told reporters in Beijing today, according to The Star.


“If there is to be any sharing, it may involve seat swaps, but those 21 seats will remain ours.


“Any negotiations will concern the seven remaining seats that are not held by Barisan.

“It will be up to the other parties to decide how they distribute those seats among themselves.”

The deputy prime minister is in China on a five-day working visit aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, technology and vocational education. Earlier today, he held talks with Chinese Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang in Beijing.


Zahid also suggested that the prospect of cooperation with Pakatan Harapan (PH), BN’s partner in the federal unity government, had diminished.

He said statements by PH leaders at both national and state levels indicated that the coalition had lost interest in working with BN for the Melaka election.

“We respect that position,” he said.

Zahid added that Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh had been entrusted with making the final decision on BN’s electoral cooperation in the state.

The coalition is expected to announce its decision before nomination day on October 31.

The latest remarks follow comments by Umno secretary-general Datuk Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki on October 13 that BN was in the final stages of seat negotiations, with the coalition determined to defend all 21 constituencies it secured in the previous state election.

BN secured a commanding majority in the November 2021 Melaka election, winning 21 of the 28 state assembly seats, while PH took five and PN two.

The Election Commission has fixed November 14 as polling day for the 16th Melaka state election, with nominations scheduled for October 31.

Govt considers seizing assets of motorists to compensate crash victims

Govt considers seizing assets of motorists to compensate crash victims


8 hours ago
Predeep Nambiar


Transport minister Loke Siew Fook says the proposal aims to ensure that victims and their families receive compensation even when offenders cannot pay

Transport minister Loke Siew Fook said the ministry is working with other government agencies to finalise the details of the compensation framework. (Bernama pic)

KUALA LUMPUR: The government is considering seizing the assets of motorists convicted of serious traffic offences to pay compensation to road accident victims and their families, transport minister Loke Siew Fook said today.

He said the proposal was among the measures being studied to ensure that families receive compensation, particularly when offenders cannot afford to pay.

“We are also looking at whether offenders’ assets can be seized,” he told the Dewan Rakyat.


Loke said the government was also looking at whether offenders who failed to pay compensation could face heavier fines or jail terms, as provided for under other laws.

However, he said no decision had been made on how the proposed compensation system would work.

He was responding to Ahmad Saad (PN-Pokok Sena), who asked how families would receive compensation if offenders could not pay, especially in light of lost income and living expenses following an accident.

Loke said the Cabinet agreed in principle on July 15 to amend the Road Transport Act 1987 to allow courts to order motorists convicted of serious offences to compensate victims or their families.

The proposed compensation would be on top of existing punishments such as jail, fines and driving bans, and would cover offences involving deaths, serious injuries or permanent disabilities.

Loke said the transport ministry was working with other government agencies to finalise the details, with plans to table the amendments in Parliament in early 2027.


Ahmad also asked whether the government would consider the Islamic principle of “diyat” or financial compensation to victims or their families.

Loke said the ministry was open to views from Islamic legal experts, but stressed that the proposed law would apply to everyone, regardless of religion.

Responding to Syahredzan Johan (PH-Bangi), Loke said the amendments would also improve the traffic demerit points system.

He said the present system was ineffective because points were only recorded after motorists paid their summonses, weakening its ability to discourage dangerous driving.

Time for PAS to take over opposition leader role, says Puad

Time for PAS to take over opposition leader role, says Puad


Ex-Umno leader says PAS is keeping Hamzah Zainudin in the position for now to retain Wawasan's backing while shoring up support for itself

Wawasan president Hamzah Zainudin is opposition leader while PAS vice-president Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, the PN chairman, briefly held the post from April to June. (Facebook pic)

PETALING JAYA: A former Umno leader has suggested that PAS take over the role of opposition leader from Hamzah Zainudin, describing the Wawasan president as unimpressive during the debate on the 2027 budget.

Former Batu Pahat MP Puad Zarkashi said Hamzah failed to offer new proposals or policies in his budget debate, only mentioning the need for an “engine of high-impact economic growth”.

“Hamzah himself didn’t mention what economic engine would be in store if PAS and Wawasan come to power.


“Now is the time for PAS to take over the position of opposition leader and put forth its own poster boy,” he said in a Facebook post.

He claimed PAS was keeping Hamzah in the position for now to retain the backing of Wawasan while shoring up support for the Islamic party, with the goal of wielding dominance over Umno.

Puad said the opposition also failed to present an alternative budget, unlike Rafizi Ramli’s Bersama which unveiled a “shadow budget” last week.

Nonetheless, the former Umno Supreme Council member said Rafizi missed the opportunity to raise the party’s budget in Parliament, since he and other Bersama leaders had all resigned as MPs.

“Rafizi is irresponsible. He resigned because he was selfish. He was fearful of the implications of the anti-hopping law and the RM10 million party bond (as a PKR MP).”

Hamzah has been opposition leader since December 2022 although he stepped down for a short period from April to June following his sacking by Bersatu.

PAS vice-president Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, the Perikatan Nasional chairman, took over the role before Hamzah returned as opposition leader in June.

Court hears charges against former UKM director accused of RM3.12m contract abuse

Court hears charges against former UKM director accused of RM3.12m contract abuse



A former director of an education centre at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) pleaded not guilty at the Sessions Court here today to two charges of abusing his position to secure employment contracts worth RM3.12 million in 2022.


Summary

• Datuk Prof Muhammad Hussin, a former director at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, pleaded not guilty to charges of abusing his position to secure employment contracts worth RM3.12 million for QTech Management Malaysia Sdn Bhd, allegedly influencing the Koperasi Siswazah Bangi Berhad board to approve the contracts.
• Charged under the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act, he faces up to 20 years imprisonment if convicted.
• The court set bail at RM80,000 and imposed conditions including surrendering his passport, with the case scheduled for mention on November 12.

First Published: Thursday, 15 Oct 2026 3:17 PM MYT


SHAH ALAM, Oct 15 — A former director of an education centre at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) pleaded not guilty at the Sessions Court here today to two charges of abusing his position to secure employment contracts worth RM3.12 million in 2022.

Datuk Prof Muhammad Hussin, 64, a retiree, entered the plea after the charges were read out before Judge Datuk Mohd Nasir Nordin.

According to the charges, Muhammad, a member of Koperasi Siswazah Bangi Berhad (KSBB), allegedly abused his position to secure two contracts worth RM1.2 million and RM1.92 million respectively to manage the Master of Education programme through UKM’s Faculty of Education.


He was accused of influencing KSBB board members at two separate meetings to approve the appointment of QTech Management Malaysia Sdn Bhd, a company in which he purportedly had an interest, as the programme operator.


The alleged offences took place on Feb 26 and June 25, 2022, at Kolej Keris Mas, UKM, and Hotel Tenera in Bangi, respectively.

Muhammad was charged under Section 23(1) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Act 2009 (Act 694), which carries a maximum prison term of 20 years and a fine of at least five times the value of the gratification involved, if it can be valued or is monetary in nature, or RM10,000, whichever is higher.

MACC deputy public prosecutor Muaz Ahmad Khairuddin proposed bail of RM300,000, with additional conditions requiring the accused to report to the MACC office, surrender his passport to the court and refrain from interfering with prosecution witnesses.


Defence counsel Muhammad Wafi Anwar Roslan sought a lower bail of RM50,000, citing his client’s financial circumstances, including his responsibility for two wives and nine children, and his reliance on a monthly pension as his sole source of income.

“The accused also suffers from synovial sarcoma and heart disease, both of which require regular treatment. I also urge the court not to impose the passport surrender condition, as his second wife and child are in Indonesia,” he said.

The court set bail at RM80,000 and ordered the accused to surrender his passport and refrain from interfering with prosecution witnesses.

The case was fixed for mention on Nov 12. — Bernama