Mahathir's Fall at Home and Malaysia’s Bitter Political Divide: Social Media Reactions Show it Clearly

Mahathir's Fall at Home and Malaysia’s Bitter Political Divide: Social Media Reactions Show it Clearly


13 Jan 2026 • 4:00 PM MYT



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Malay Mail


Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has been hospitalised after suffering a fracture to his right hip following a fall at his residence, an incident that has triggered widespread online reactions reflecting the deep political polarisation surrounding the veteran leader.


According to reports carried by the Asia News Network, Dr Mahathir sustained the injury after falling at home and was subsequently admitted to the National Heart Institute (Institut Jantung Negara, IJN) in Kuala Lumpur for treatment. His press secretary, Sufi Yusoff, confirmed that the former premier is expected to remain hospitalised for several weeks as he undergoes medical care and recovery.


The incident occurred against the backdrop of Dr Mahathir’s continued and vocal opposition to the Madani government led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Since the formation of the current administration, the former leader has remained an outspoken critic, frequently questioning the government’s direction and policies.


Observers note that Dr Mahathir’s political stance follows a difficult chapter in his career after the 15th General Election (GE15) in November 2022, when his party, Pejuang, suffered a crushing defeat. All of its candidates, including Dr Mahathir himself, failed to win their seats and lost their electoral deposits, marking a significant setback for the veteran politician who once dominated Malaysia’s political landscape.


News of his fall and hospitalisation quickly became a subject of intense discussion online. Numerous comments surfaced drawing sharp, often sarcastic parallels between Dr Mahathir’s efforts to politically undermine Anwar Ibrahim and his own misfortune at home. Some framed the incident as poetic justice, suggesting that relentless political battles had taken a personal toll, while others used the moment to voice long-standing grievances against his role in past political upheavals.


At the same time, a segment of the public pushed back strongly against such remarks, calling for restraint and respect given Dr Mahathir’s age and decades of service. Supporters urged Malaysians to separate political disagreements from personal health matters, emphasising compassion and decorum when discussing the condition of an elderly statesman.


Amid the noise of online debate, political analysts cautioned that the episode underscores how deeply divided public sentiment remains. They observed that Dr Mahathir continues to evoke strong emotions on both sides of the political spectrum, with even personal incidents becoming symbols in broader political narratives.


For now, attention has shifted from political manoeuvring to health concerns, with close aides indicating that Dr Mahathir’s focus will be on recovery during his stay at IJN. Whether the incident will prompt a pause in his political activities remains to be seen, but it has once again highlighted how intertwined personal events and national politics have become in Malaysia’s charged political climate.

Trump says, “If Iranian authorities start killing protesters, we’ll step in” but where the hell were you when Palestinians were being wiped out?

From the FB page of:


I Fucking Love Australia

odterpSons  gnua1 7714857r1ghu831P1f01t0i :0ma93y18aM26J411m ·

Here’s the uncomfortable truth about Iran that nobody likes to say out loud.

We did not just wake up one morning and go, “Wow, Iran’s run by a bunch of hardcore religious nutjobs, how did that happen?” No. There was a long, stupid chain of events, and surprise, America has fingerprints all over it.

Back in the 1950s, Iran actually tried democracy. I know, shocking. They elected a prime minister, Mosaddegh, who had the insane idea of saying, “Hey, maybe Iran should control its own oil.” And the US and the UK went, “Absolutely not, champ.” So they helped overthrow him and put the Shah back in charge. Boom. Democracy gone. Dictator installed. Oil secured.

Now, the Shah modernised the country, sure. But he also ran a brutal police state. Torture, secret police, people disappearing. And because he was backed by the US, a lot of Iranians didn’t just hate the Shah. They hated everything associated with him, including Western influence.

So when the revolution came in the late 1970s, people didn’t just want the Shah gone. They wanted the whole system burned to the ground. And who stepped into that vacuum? The ayatollahs. Religious hardliners who promised justice, dignity, and independence. Spoiler alert, they delivered none of that.

So yeah, America didn’t install the Islamic Republic directly. But if you shove a country off a cliff, you do not get to act surprised when it lands in a pile of religious authoritarianism.

Fast forward to today. Iran is run by clerics with absolute power. Morality police beating women over headscarves. Protesters shot. Internet shut down. Religion used as a weapon, not faith, not spirituality, just control. Same old playbook, different century.

Now Donald Trump comes out and says, “If they start killing protesters, we’ll step in.” And here’s the part that’s going to annoy everyone. For once, I actually like the idea behind that statement. If a government is slaughtering its own people in the streets, the world should not just shrug and change the channel.

But then comes the part where trust completely falls apart.

Because if you are suddenly the global sheriff who storms in when protesters are being killed, I have a very reasonable question. Where the hell were you when Palestinians were being wiped out?

After the atrocity of October 7, which was horrific and undeniable, over 70,000+ Palestinians have now been killed, most of them civilians, most of them having absolutely nothing to do with that massacre. Entire families erased. Kids buried under rubble. Hospitals bombed. Aid blocked.

So where was the threat then?

Why no “If you keep killing people, we’ll step in” speech aimed at Israel?

Why no red line?
Why no “stop or else”?

And that right there is why I do not trust Trump’s motives. Because it starts to look less like moral outrage and more like selective outrage. It starts to feel like human rights only matter when they align with strategic interests.

If you are going to bomb Iranian officials for killing protesters, but you will not even threaten consequences when an ally does the same on a vastly larger scale, then let’s be honest about what this is. It is not about saving lives. It is about power, optics, and leverage.

And that is how you end up back at square one again.

Best case scenario? Iranians force change themselves. The system cracks from the inside. Power fractures. A slow, messy, imperfect transition happens, but it has legitimacy. No foreign puppet strings. No freedom delivered by missiles.

Worst case? Crackdowns intensify, thousands die, the regime hardens, or America barges in like a drunk uncle at a wedding yelling, “I’ve got this,” and somehow makes everything worse. Again.

And if the protests fail? Nothing magically improves. The anger just goes underground. It waits. It simmers. And next time, it explodes harder.
So yeah, this is the bit everyone hates. There are no clean heroes here. No magic interventions. Just decades of bad decisions, fear, manipulation, and religion weaponised for power.

If Iran ever gets free, it will not be because someone saved them. It will be because they fought their way out of a mess the world helped create, and hopefully this time, the rest of us stay the hell out of the way.

State of the Nation: Petronas–Petros affair goes to the apex court – Zainul Arifin

Petronas has recently filed a motion at the Federal Court in Putrajaya to seek clarification on the regulatory framework governing petroleum operations in Sarawak. - Scoop pic, January 13, 2026


State of the Nation: Petronas–Petros affair goes to the apex court – Zainul Arifin


Petronas’ move to seek clarity from the Federal Court over its dispute with Sarawak’s Petros is more than a corporate legal battle — it is a defining test of federal–state relations, constitutional supremacy, and the future structure of Malaysia’s oil and gas industry



Zainul Arifin
Updated 6 seconds ago
13 January, 2026
5:50 PM MYT

IT may be an act of desperation that Petronas filed a motion at the Federal Court on Monday, seeking a definitive ruling on an issue that has long troubled it — the future of its business in Sarawak, with the state now demanding a greater share of the oil and gas exploited there.

The motion is also seen as an attempt to seek a universal solution to the long-term outlook of the national oil and gas industry, as deliberation by the Apex court could potentially affect other states that may attempt to emulate Sarawak.

Ultimately, an added by-product of this motion is a deliberation on a basic constitutional issue: does federal law supersede those enacted by state legislatures?

At the core of this issue is the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), which formed the basis of Sarawak, Sabah, Singapore, and the Federation of Malaya coming together to form Malaysia. MA63 provided its parties with certain inalienable rights, but Sarawak and Sabah claim that many of these have not been honoured. Sarawak’s decision to assert greater control over the exploitation of oil and gas in the state is part of its claim for a fairer share of the spoils, as envisaged under MA63.

Incidentally, Sarawak may not look kindly upon Monday’s filing at the Federal Court, likely arguing that the motion is a hostile move and that Petronas is acting in bad faith ahead of an expected decision by the Kuching High Court at the end of the month.

The Kuching High Court is expected to rule on a bank guarantee dispute between Petronas and Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros), which many suggest could have far-reaching implications for the broader relationship between the two companies, their operations, and their respective jurisdictions. Some see the dispute as a proxy for the wider state–federal quagmire that the court will have to deliberate on. Most importantly for Petronas, the judgment is expected to indicate how it will be allowed to operate in Sarawak going forward.

If the Federal Court accepts the motion, the Kuching High Court would be required to stay its judgment until the apex court reaches a decision.

There is a great deal of legal nuance to be argued and presented by the legal teams representing the companies, the state, and possibly the Attorney General as well. The issue is already complex even before the emotive Federal–Sarawak relationship is factored into the equation.

The crux of the matter lies in the inability of Putrajaya and Kuching to resolve the grey areas surrounding Sarawak’s quest to develop its own gas industry. The existence of Petros and its appointment as the exclusive sole gas aggregator in the state has created uncertainty over Petronas’ operations there.

Positive public statements about “near resolutions” and the “finalisation of details” by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Openg for more than a year have yet to yield tangible outcomes and have, if anything, resulted in more confusion.

They announced a “policy-level agreement” in which Petronas recognises Petros as the gas aggregator for Sarawak’s domestic use, while liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports remain under the national oil company. A formal declaration was signed by both governments to ensure that federal and state laws would “co-exist”.

Yet, more than a year on, ambiguity still surrounds these arrangements, offering little clarity for Petronas or its business operations. While some may see Sarawak as playing hardball to assert its rights, the longer this uncertainty persists, the more damaging it could be for Petronas.

Sarawak’s insistence on certain issues could compel Petronas to unwind previous business arrangements with the state as well as with clients at home and abroad. It could also undermine investments in the state reported to exceed RM90 billion over the past 10 years.

There are many bug bears in Sarawak and Sabah regarding the federation, but the prevailing perception is that the Bornean states have been on the receiving end of an unfavourable deal — particularly concerning the exploitation of petroleum reserves and, more broadly, MA63 itself.

This sentiment is heightened when the gleaming Petronas Twin Towers are contrasted with the wanting interiors of Sabah and Sarawak. Yet, both states have received substantial oil and gas revenues over the years — while the exact amounts remain contested — running into billions of ringgit. Sarawak alone, for instance, has collected an additional RM20 billion in gas sales tax in recent years. How these funds are spent, of course, is a matter for the state.

Changes in the national political landscape, where Sabah and Sarawak now wield significant influence in the formation of federal governments, have given Sarawak the leverage to press its MA63 claims. At present, the state wants a larger share of revenue and greater influence over the development and exploitation of its petroleum reserves.

Sarawak argues that its Oil Mining Ordinance (OMO) 1958, which predates the formation of Malaysia, as well as its Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016, give it the right to do so. These, Sarawak contends, supersede the Petroleum Development Act 1974 (PDA 1974), which vested ownership and control of Malaysia’s oil and gas reserves to Petronas.

Hence, the case before the learned bench of the Federal Court is more than a proverbial Petros–Petronas Mexican standoff — it is a constitutional question of national importance.

From the early 1900s, the exploitation of oil and gas in Sarawak and Sabah was largely a Mat Salleh affair, with overseas companies developing the resources and little benefit accruing to the states or their people, save for a select few.

The PDA 1974 was, in effect, a form of ‘nationalisation’ of the oil and gas industry, without expelling foreign players or tearing up their contracts. Foreign companies wishing to participate in new ventures would simply have to play by new rules.

In a way, the Sarawak government is now doing what the PDA once did — enacting its own laws to secure greater control and a larger share in the development of its resources.

Petronas, as the flag-bearer of the national oil and gas industry — a role it has performed admirably — likely sees the uncertainty surrounding its position and tye inability for a ‘diplomatic” resolution as necessitating this last-ditch, and potentially antagonistic, move to the apex court.

Beyond protecting its investments in Sarawak, Petronas also needs to send a message of continuity and certainty to investors and clients. Analysts estimate that losing the gas aggregator role in Sarawak could result in a 30 per cent drop in revenue. Putrajaya is already budgeting for a lower contribution from Petronas this year, perhaps reflecting this risk.

It does no good for the company, the country, or Sarawak if these issues remain unresolved. While there appears to be little willingness among some parties to compromise, something must give for the greater good.

While we can appreciate and respect Sarawak’s desire to reclaim what it believes is rightfully its own, this cannot come at the expense of Petronas — a national oil company that ultimately serves all Malaysians. – January 13, 2026

Datuk Zainul Arifin is the Chief Executive Officer of Big Boom Media, publisher of Scoop.my

Pro-LGBTQ NGO Jejaka cancels ‘Glamping With Pride’ after death threats

Pro-LGBTQ NGO Jejaka has called off its “Glamping With Pride” programme, which was scheduled for this weekend, citing escalating security threats. - Social media pic, January 13, 2026


Pro-LGBTQ NGO Jejaka cancels ‘Glamping With Pride’ after death threats


The weekend programme in Hulu Langat is called off amid escalating safety concerns; Sultan of Selangor also opposes LGBT-themed activities



A. Azim Idris
Updated 20 seconds ago
13 January, 2026
3:28 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR — Pro-LGBTQ NGO Jejaka has called off its “Glamping With Pride” programme, which was scheduled for this weekend, citing escalating security threats.

In a statement, Jejaka said the decision came after serious safety concerns, including death threats and threats of violence circulated on social media, Malaysiakini reported.

“Since our statement on January 9, 2026, the situation has changed drastically.

“The venue owner has cancelled the booking due to security concerns, and we have also received safety threats, including death threats and threats of violence through social media.

“These threats have been documented and will be referred to the authorities through a police report,” Jejaka said.

The NGO emphasised that the programme was not cancelled because it was unlawful, but due to worsening circumstances that had reached a point where “lives were being put at risk”.

The cancellation follows the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah’s directive for firm action against activities linked to the organisation of “Glamping With Pride”, associated with the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community. The programme had been scheduled for January 17 and 18, 2026, in Hulu Langat, Selangor.

The Sultan conveyed his stance during an audience with Selangor Islamic Religious Council (MAIS) chairman Senator Datuk Setia Salehuddin Saidin at Istana Bukit Kayangan in Shah Alam, with Selangor Mufti Datuk Setia Dr Anhar Opir also present.

In a joint statement, the Sultan’s office stressed that while such acts may involve individual sins between a person and Allah SWT, they could invite divine wrath upon the state.

“The Sultan of Selangor also does not consent to any form of organisation of festivals, parades, activities or celebrations, or anything similar to the act of liwat practised by the people of Prophet Lut AS.

“Any effort to promote or legitimise this deviant LGBT lifestyle is contrary to the Maqasid Syariah, particularly in safeguarding lineage (Hifz al-Nasl),” the statement said.

It added that LGBT-related activities could normalise such practices and pose a threat to the faith of Muslims.

“This is because they legitimise what has clearly been prohibited by Islam. They also believe that humans are free to determine their gender identity, which contradicts and goes beyond the natural order decreed by Allah SWT.”

MAIS also warned Muslims, especially youths, against being influenced by Western cultural practices that promote these lifestyles under the guise of human rights.

“Not all freedoms associated with human rights can be accepted or practised by Muslim society if they clearly contradict the teachings of Islam,” it said.

Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shaari said today that permits for glamping are issued based on the type of activity, and safe, family-friendly glamping remains acceptable in the state.

“If it is regular glamping, which is generally family-friendly, that is usually acceptable. I believe His Royal Highness’s decree is also not overly rigid. His Royal Highness’s concern is specifically directed at activities that are deviant and unacceptable,” he told reporters.

Amirudin noted that many Malaysians, including political parties, individuals and Members of Parliament, have expressed opposition to such activities, and authorities would intervene if organisers attempted to defy the ruling.

“I do not think such activities will be allowed to proceed. I am not certain, but if they continue to challenge the ruling, I will ask the authorities to take action,” he said.

The MB added that the public stance on inappropriate glamping events is clear.

“Safe, family-friendly glamping is fine, but not with that particular theme. The issue now is the theme, not glamping itself. Do not condemn glamping,” he said. – January 13, 2026

***

WTF, JUST WHEN I LOOK FORWARD TO SINGING 'KUMBAYA' BY THE CAMPFIRE 😂😂😂

Ramasamy to PAS: You still need non-Malay support for they ain’t tiny minority but kingmakers

Ramasamy to PAS: You still need non-Malay support for they ain’t tiny minority but kingmakers

By Prof Ramasamy Palanisamy
9 hours ago






IN Perikatan Nasional (PN), PAS might be stronger with more parliamentary and state seats in comparison with Bersatu. Given this, it only logical that PAS helms the chairmanship of PN.


I think the process is underway given the exit of Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin as the former chairman of the opposition coalition and amid a few Bersatu leaders having vacated their positions in PN.


What was once thought as a formidable opposition with the potential to unseat the ruling Pakatan Harapan-Barisan Nasional (PH-BN) coalition in the next general election, the prospect of such an opportunity now seems a distant dream.

Infighting within Bersatu, between Bersatu and PAS in PN, the Perlis political crisis and others have brought to fore the apparent split in PN.

PN’s biggest challenge is not getting the support of the Malay-Muslims but the support of the non-Malays.




Chinese, Indians still uncomfortable

Some sections of the non-Malay community might have warned towards Muhyiddin, especially with the formation of Ikatan Prihatin Rakyat (IPR) recently.

However, the resignation of Muhyiddin who is also the IPR chairman from PN has put on hold the future of the loose coalition.

PAS might have strong political credentials with the Malay-Muslim community in the country. In fact, it is the strongest political party in the Malay-Muslim community.

Nevertheless, taking national power requires it to develop warm relationship with the Chinese and Indians in the country.

Rightly or wrongly, PAS is still perceived as a political party with no interest in safeguarding the political, social, religious and cultural interests of the Chinese and Indians.

Whether politics of PAS is seen as detrimental to the rights of the Chinese and Indians is true of not is something else. Perceptions matter in the real world of politics.

In the past, PAS might have made some attempts to ingratiate itself to the Chinese and Indians but the over emphasis on religion has served to nullify some good deeds.

The presence of non-Malay or non-Muslim section within PAS in the form of Dewan Himpunan Penyokong PAS (DHPP) given its subservience to the PAS leadership does not instil confidence among the Chinese and Indians.



Mono-ethnic stance a stumbling block

Many segments within PAS might be thinking that Malay-Muslim support is all that is necessary to capture political power.

Non-Malays are not a tiny minority in the country but constitute nearly 40% of the population.

Even if the support of the Chinese and Indians are not necessary, surely a political party with national aspirations such as PAS cannot ignore the political reality of the non-Malays and the protection of their rights by the Federal Constitution of the country.

As long as PAS takes a mono-ethnic or mono-religious view towards Malaysian politics, the party can hardly make a headway in the non-Malay communities.

The question is: yes, it only logical that PAS takes over the chairmanship of PN but how it is going to endear itself to the Chinese and Indians in the country.

Remember that the political relevance of DAP is always seen in oppositional relationship to PAS.

In fact, DAP owes its existence to the kind of politics practised by PAS. What a shame! – Jan 13, 2026



Former DAP stalwart and Penang deputy chief minister II Prof Ramasamy Palanisamy is chairman of the United Rights of Malaysian Party (Urimai) interim council.

***

If PUS ever comes to power, the first thing on their list of things-to-do will be the denial of voting rights to the 'nons' , wakakaka - frigging kafir lah

I didn’t use Nik Faisal to pocket RM42mil, Najib testifies

FMT:

I didn’t use Nik Faisal to pocket RM42mil, Najib testifies

3 HOURS AGO
Faisal Asyraf

The former prime minister was testifying as the defendant in SRC International’s RM42 million civil suit

SRC International and its subsidiary are suing former prime minister Najib Razak to recover RM42 million allegedly misappropriated from the company. (Bernama pic)

KUALA LUMPUR: Former prime minister Najib Razak told the High Court today that he did not use former SRC International Sdn Bhd director Nik Faisal Ariff Kamil to channel RM42 million into his personal accounts.

Testifying in a civil suit brought by SRC and its subsidiary Gandingan Mentari Sdn Bhd, Najib rejected the plaintiffs’ attempt to draw what he described as an “instruction chain” through individuals such as Nik Faisal.

“I did not use him or anyone as a conduit to dictate outcomes to SRC’s board or to orchestrate the RM42 million credited into my accounts,” he said.


Najib said this when examined by his counsel Farhan Shafee.

He said if any SRC officer had represented certain decisions as “the prime minister’s instructions”, such actions were unauthorised and contrary to proper corporate governance.

Najib also told the court that he was never a director of SRC, did not attend its board meetings, and did not manage its operations, adding that under SRC’s constitution and the Companies Act, management of the company lay with its board and officers.

“Any approvals or consents associated with my public offices were sequenced after board processes and did not convert me into a de facto or ‘shadow’ director,” he testified.

I didn’t select Nik Faisal as CEO

Under examination by Farhan, Najib denied approving the appointment of Nik Faisal and Vincent Koh as SRC’s initial directors, saying he was not informed of the appointments and that such operational matters did not require his approval.


However, Najib acknowledged issuing a letter dated Aug 1, 2011, concerning the proposed directors of SRC.

He told the court that prior to August 2011, a list of proposed directors had been submitted to him by then 1MDB CEO Shahrol Azral Ibrahim Halmi.

The list included names stated in the letter, with Ismee Ismail as chairman and Nik Faisal as CEO and managing director nominees.

Najib said he was informed that the individuals had been selected by 1MDB, SRC’s holding company, and as such, he saw no reason to disagree with the nominations.


“My approval was primarily based on the fact that the board of 1MDB had already selected these individuals,” he said.

SRC and Gandingan Mentari are suing the former prime minister to recover RM42 million allegedly misappropriated from the company’s accounts.

Najib has been jailed since Aug 23, 2022, after he was convicted of misappropriating RM42 million in SRC funds. He was sentenced to 12 years’ jail and fined RM210 million.

Following a petition for a royal pardon filed on Sept 2, 2022, the Federal Territories Pardons Board on Jan 29 last year halved Najib’s jail term to six years, and reduced his fine to RM50 million.

The hearing before Justice Raja Ahmad Mohzanuddin Shah Raja Mohzan will continue tomorrow.

Counsel Lim Chee Wee represented SRC and Gandingan Mentari.

PN lawyer Rafique jibes AG as “ignorant” for declaring Zahid a free man after his NFA conferment

PN lawyer Rafique jibes AG as “ignorant” for declaring Zahid a free man after his NFA conferment






PERIKATAN Nasional lawyer Rafique Rashid has accused Attorney-General (AG) Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar as having committed a blunder by stating that Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi cannot be charged again after the latter has been granted NFA (no further action).


The NFA classification follows the Kuala Lumpur High Court having on Sept 4, 2023 which granted the UMNO president a DNAA (discharge not amounting to acquittal) on all 47 prima facie charges encompassing criminal breach of trust (CBT), graft and money laundering pertaining to his Yayasan Akalbudi case.


“I humbly say that the AG has been ignorant (khiilaf),” the Pejuang information chief penned on his Facebook page. “This is wrong, inaccurate incorrect. It’s merely sweeping (the case) under the carpet. Just a lame excuse.”

Muhammad Rafique Rashid Ali

on Monday

"Keputusan bukan suka-suka..."

1.Itu kata Peguam Negara tentang NFA Zahid Hamidi.

2.Dengan rendah diri saya katakan Peguam Negara khilaf.

...See more

3.1K

1.2K

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Recall that then lead prosecutor Datuk Raja Rozela Raja Toran had handled Zahid’s prosecution prior to her resignation which led to Dusuki succeeding her with the eventuality of the Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman granted a DNAA.

Following this, DAP had pressed for former AG Tan Sri Idrus Harun to provide an open explanation to the rakyat with regard to factors that led to the granting of DNAA by the KL High Court.

“The investigation papers were readily available. The MACC (Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission) had investigated and found criminal elements,” Rafique who runs his Petaling Jaya-based legal practice at Law Practice of Rafique outlined chronology of the case.

“The judge (Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah) heard the case with 99 witnesses called. And arguments submitted.

“The then deputy public prosecutor (DPP) Raja Rozela (now a judge) worked hard to present the case. The judge found prima facie (elements). Given this was a strong case, Zahid must defend himself. Prima facie in simple terms means if you keep quiet you go to jail.”



Can always be charged again

Contrary to Dusuki’s justification that the NFA decision was reached given the case against Zahid “had been diluted” and that “I didn’t make this decision lightly”, Rafique claimed that regardless whether a case has been classified as NFA or DNAA, the accused can always be charged again.

“Power to accuse, charge, withdraw or to proceed with a case doubtlessly lies with the AG in accordance with Article 145(3) of the Federal Constitution.

“But all powers have their limitation. They must be transparent and sincere. NFA is meaningless in law after a case has started. Whether it’s NFA for investigation papers or DNAA, an accused can always be charged again.”

Delving further, Rafique contended that “the case is still open” with the accused “can always be charged when the government changes”.

Ramkarpal Singh

on Thursday

MEDIA STATEMENT

1. The decision by the Attorney General’s Chambers to take no further action in respect of the 47 charges for which Deputy Prime Minister Dato Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was charged, does not inspire confidence and raises questions over the transparency of investigations into the matter by the AGC.

2. In a statement, the AGC attributed the said decision to a comprehensive review of the material before it although no mention was made as to whether it had review...

See more

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“The new AG can always pursue the matter with a review of the case by the new Prime Minister. The only exception when a case cannot be charged again or to be discontinued is when the Court orders acquittal and release.

“It’s impossible to charge the accused a second time after he has been acquitted and released if there’s no appeal. This is in tandem with Article 7(2) of the Federal Constitution.” – Jan 13, 2026

‘It’s not about money, but the truth’, says Hannah Yeoh on defamation win against ex-IGP Musa Hassan

‘It’s not about money, but the truth’, says Hannah Yeoh on defamation win against ex-IGP Musa Hassan



Federal Territories Minister Hannah Yeoh with her legal team after the Court of Appeal delivered its decision on her appeal against the High Court’s dismissal of her defamation suit against Tan Sri Musa Hassan over statements made at a forum at UiTM, at Court of Appeal 6, Putrajaya, January 13, 2026. — Bernama pic

Tuesday, 13 Jan 2026 4:46 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 13 — Federal Territories Minister Hannah Yeoh said her victory in the defamation suit against former inspector-general of police Tan Sri Musa Hassan was not about money, but about standing up for the truth.

The 47-year-old minister made the remarks after her lawyer, Datuk S. Ambiga, spoke at a press conference following the Court of Appeal’s ruling on Tuesday, which ordered Musa, 74, to pay RM250,000 in damages for defaming her over the issue of Christianisation in a forum six years ago, according to a report published in Sinar Harian today.

The Segambut MP said she felt relieved as the ruling cleared her name from those who had used racial and religious issues to spread false accusations against her.

“This shows that the claims made against me were false. My reputation has been tarnished for six years, but the most important thing is that the court has now vindicated me,” she said.


On Tuesday, the three-judge Court of Appeal panel, led by Datuk Azimah Omar (now a Federal Court judge) and sitting with Datuk Dr Choo Kah Sing and Datuk Dr Shahnaz Sulaiman, allowed Hannah’s appeal.

Musa was also ordered to pay RM60,000 in legal costs to Hannah.

Hannah, a former youth and sports minister, said she had to live with lies and slander circulating on social media over the past six years.


She added that the statements not only damaged her reputation but also misled the public, particularly because they came from a former IGP.

“As a public servant, Musa should have acted more carefully and based on verified facts, not allegations that misled society,” she said.

She added that her current focus is to serve the people with integrity, responsibility, and sincerity.

“May my life continue to honour God through my service to the rakyat,” she said.

Hannah was represented by Ambiga, along with lawyers Sangeet Kaur Deo, Lim Wei Jiet, and Lee Guo Wen, while Musa was represented by lawyer Nur Jehan Abu Bakar.

Hannah had filed the suit on January 30, 2020, over statements Musa made during the forum, including allegations that she wrote the book Becoming Hannah to turn Malaysia into a Christian nation, maintained ties with certain religious preachers and Jewish groups to undermine Islam and the country, and prioritised her personal interests over Malaysia’s.

On December 23, 2024, Kuala Lumpur High Court Judicial Commissioner Arziah Mohamed Apandi had dismissed her suit, finding that Hannah had failed to prove Musa’s statements were defamatory.

Zahid to meet Akmal today amid Umno tensions, as speculation grows over resignations and withdrawal calls

Zahid to meet Akmal today amid Umno tensions, as speculation grows over resignations and withdrawal calls



Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has confirmed that he will meet the party’s Youth chief, Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh. — Bernama pic

Tuesday, 13 Jan 2026 3:10 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 13 — Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has confirmed that he will meet the party’s Youth chief, Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, later this afternoon.

“He will meet me this afternoon. I do not know what his decision will be (regarding his position in the party and the government),” said Ahmad Zahid, who is also Deputy Prime Minister, to reporters after the closing ceremony of Multaqa Ilmuwan Islam Malaysia here today.

Dr Muhamad Akmal was reported yesterday as saying that he would abide by the decision made by Ahmad Zahid and Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh regarding the positions he currently holds.

Dr Muhamad Akmal is also the Merlimau state assemblyman and the Melaka Rural Development, Agriculture and Food Security Committee chairman.


The media had previously reported that Dr Muhamad Akmal hinted at stepping down from the positions he currently holds after his calls for Umno to withdraw from the Unity Government drew a negative response from Ahmad Zahid. — Bernama

Najib must pay for his crimes

Najib must pay for his crimes

P Gunasegaram
Published: Jan 13, 2026 8:58 AM
Updated: 1:16 PM



COMMENT | Despite former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak’s conviction on all four counts of power abuse and 21 counts of money laundering related to RM2.3 billion of funds, a 15-year sentence, an over RM11 billion fine or an additional 10 years in lieu, his pardon will still take centre stage at the Umno general assembly.

That is perplexing, puzzling, and completely over the top for what was once the premier party in the country, which has withered to a state of little relevance with 26 seats in Parliament compared to 109 in 2004, a comedown which looks set to continue.

Does it not matter to this party, which led the independence movement, that what Najib did amounted to the biggest kleptocracy the world had ever known, causing money to be stolen from massive bond issues, a first for this country and an assault on the nation?

Is it okay that billions were not only laundered but also stolen from borrowed funds with express authority given by Najib, who signed off on all the money transfers under the memorandum and articles of association of 1MDB, a supposedly strategic development company which chalked up over RM42 billion in liabilities?

How can you justify billions of ringgit in borrowings but very little available for use because most of it had been siphoned away through sham schemes for lavish and wild parties, pricey paintings, overpriced assets, a billion-ringgit yacht, expensive jewellery worth hundreds of millions for Najib’s wife Rosmah Mansor, donations for Umno divisional heads totalling several hundred million ringgit, and a host of other things?

Umno sinking low

Has Umno sunk so low that they are prepared to appeal for a pardon for Najib despite the billions in losses he incurred for the country, causing not only the smearing of the country’s name but huge opportunity costs which may amount to as much as RM100 billion in all?

Or is it because many of its divisional leaders also received money from Najib?

Is Umno not worried about the kind of message sent out if the biggest crook and felon this country has ever known is given a full pardon for his crime? Should they not be clamouring for a heavier sentence, which will send shivers down the spine of those who are thinking of committing similar offences?

Don’t the people in Umno, those people who say they are nationalists and loyal to country, race, and religion, recognise the heinous crime that Najib has committed, or are they mere politicians trying to protect their own kind from crimes against the state?

Loke’s acquiescence

So powerful is the move to get a pardon for Najib that those who want to celebrate a rightful and appropriate sentence for a crime of monstrous proportions have been threatened by Umno goons to the extent that the DAP secretary-general says there is no need for an extra stab against Najib.

Anthony Loke’s comments that his party’s fellow leader Yeo Bee Yin’s celebration of the decision of the court against Najib would damage cooperation within the Madani government is timid at the least and a gross acquiescence against morality and good sense.

If Umno can vociferously condemn a decision of the court, why can’t another person say she will celebrate the decision? Why be afraid of a party which has abandoned all sense of morality in the biggest criminal case of abuse of power and money laundering in the country?

DAP sec-gen Anthony Loke


DAP, succumbing to pressure, has lost an opportunity to assert its stand against corruption among politicians and to score some points with its voter base.

Abuse of power

It is immaterial to Najib’s conviction how much money is recovered; the point is that he abused his power to enable the theft, and money actually went into his account from the theft and not from any Arab donation.

Even if all the money is recovered, 1MDB did not have the money for long periods and still had to repay the borrowings with interest, owing as much as RM42 billion.

At a 10 percent per year opportunity cost, the amount lost would be a further RM42 billion after just seven years.

And then there is the cost of overpayments for assets and contracts, bond underpricing, and other costs, which would have added several billions more to take the figure to as much as RM100 billion, easily the biggest loss in any single venture for Malaysia.

1MDB still hangs heavily around Malaysia’s neck, and the release of the man primarily responsible, with the other, Low Taek Jho, who is at large and by most accounts is close to Najib and his wife, will be a gross travesty of justice.

Umno must not be permitted to carry this out. And if Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim ties himself to this, the repercussions at the polls for the Madani government will be heavy.

Because of 1MDB, Umno no longer commands mass support - a corrupt party in steep decline.

P GUNASEGARAM affirms the saying that justice must be seen to be done. That means punishment must fit the crime for everyone.

Bersatu supreme council accepts Muhyiddin stepping down as PN chief

Bersatu supreme council accepts Muhyiddin stepping down as PN chief

Alyaa Alhadjri
Published: Jan 13, 2026 8:13 AM
Updated: 1:16 PM



The Bersatu supreme council has accepted party president Muhyiddin Yassin’s resignation as Perikatan Nasional chairperson.

Speaking to reporters at the party’s headquarters in Petaling Jaya last night, Muhyiddin, who chaired a meeting that lasted over four hours, revealed that the matter was discussed at length by all leaders in attendance.

“I explained at length the reasons and background circumstances that led me to make that decision.

“The supreme council members respected my decision.

“In any case, when the PN supreme council meeting takes place later, the matter will be decided definitively,” said the Pagoh MP past midnight.

Muhyiddin stepped down as PN chairperson on Dec 30 following a crisis in the Perlis state government, which saw relations between PAS and Bersatu become increasingly tense.

Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin at the meeting last night


Since then, speculations have arisen over his successor, with PAS staking claims to the post without naming the party’s candidate.

“So far none,” said Muhyiddin when asked if he had received any names from PAS on the party’s candidate for the PN chairperson’s post.

Yesterday, three PN Youth chiefs, except for PAS Youth chief Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden, met Muhyiddin with a request for him to reconsider his resignation.

Asked to comment on the request by Bersatu, Gerakan, and MIPP Youth chiefs, Muhyiddin said they are entitled to their views, but his decision to resign will not change.

“That’s fine. Whoever wants to tell me what to do - that’s their view. I respect their views, but the decision is mine alone.

“I won’t explain it until the PN supreme council meeting,” he said.

Royal prerogative

Meanwhile, Muhyiddin said Perlis Menteri Besar Abu Bakar Hamzah, who was present during the meeting last night, had explained issues surrounding the crisis which saw the removal of former menteri besar Shukri Ramli from PAS.

Shukri Ramli


“I want to state that we categorically deny any involvement by Bersatu. Bersatu is not involved.

“Once a decision has been made by His Royal Highness the Raja of Perlis, that is the absolute prerogative of the Raja of Perlis and must be respected,” he stressed.

“Bersatu played no role in sabotaging PAS. There was no such thing. That is the true decision.

“We strongly deny being traitors. No, nothing to do. Bersatu is not involved,” said Muhyiddin.

Muhyiddin left the party headquarters at around 12.30am to cheers from party members.

In a statement later, Bersatu secretary-general Azmin Ali said the supreme council has taken the position that the party will remain a principled, consistent, and loyal partner in PN.

He said cooperation within PN will continue to be preserved for the stability and strength of the coalition towards the 16th general election.

PAS welcomes decision

In a statement on Facebook, PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari praised the outcome of the meeting as “very positive”.

“Praise be to God, this is a very positive outcome from the Bersatu supreme council meeting, which openly accepted Muhyiddin’s intention to step down from his position as PN chairperson.

“God willing, PN will move forward. Give PAS the opportunity to steer the leadership of PN as it heads into the 16th general election. Together, we rise and march towards Putrajaya,” he said.

PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari


On Jan 8, Fadhli said that his party had already decided on a candidate to lead the coalition.

The next day, PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang’s statement appeared to contradict this, after he denied claims that his party had submitted names for the PN chairperson candidacy.

Instead, he said the decision has been fully entrusted to the party’s central leadership for deliberation.

Hadi said that the PAS central committee meeting, which was expected to discuss the candidacy, has been postponed to this week.

Probe into ex-minister over RM5m bribes, luxury Lamborghini: MACC to reveal details on Thursday

Probe into ex-minister over RM5m bribes, luxury Lamborghini: MACC to reveal details on Thursday



MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki declined to reveal the identity of the former minister, citing ongoing investigations. — Bernama pic

Tuesday, 13 Jan 2026 1:47 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 13 — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) will hold a press conference the day after tomorrow on an investigation involving a former minister suspected of receiving about RM5 million in bribes, as well as a luxury car, linked to billboard projects and land transfers in the capital.

MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki declined to reveal the identity of the former minister, citing ongoing investigations.

He said the press conference would provide the latest updates on the probe, which covers developments from last year through early this year, according to a report published in Utusan Malaysia today.

“The investigation is still ongoing and has not been concluded,” he said when met at the signing of a memorandum of understanding between MACC and HELP University, and the launch of the 2026 Governance and Integrity Forum Series in Bukit Kiara today.


Previously, based on information obtained by MACC, the former minister is believed to have received around RM5 million from a property development company.

The suspect is also alleged to have received a luxury Lamborghini from a billboard company.

The suspect has already appeared at MACC headquarters in Putrajaya to have his statement recorded, and investigators are now focusing on tracing the source of payment for the luxury vehicle.


As for the land-related case, preliminary findings indicate that land previously gazetted for the construction of a surau was transferred to proxy companies.

So far, 16 witnesses — comprising government officials and company owners — have had their statements recorded in connection with both cases.

Selangor to move pig farms to Bukit Tagar immediately after Sultan’s decree

Selangor to move pig farms to Bukit Tagar immediately after Sultan’s decree



Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shaari said the move is aimed at addressing environmental concerns caused by traditional pig farming, including foul odours, water pollution, and other forms of contamination. — Bernama pic

Tuesday, 13 Jan 2026 12:14 PM MYT


SHAH ALAM, Jan 13 — Following the Selangor Sultan’s decree to phase out traditional pig farms in Tanjong Sepat, the Selangor government has announced plans to relocate the operations to an upgraded facilities in Bukit Tagar “as soon as possible.”

Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shaari said the move is aimed at addressing environmental concerns caused by traditional pig farming, including foul odours, water pollution, and other forms of contamination.

“We will implement this as soon as possible because it involves 69 operators that we can identify. The rest were not issued licences previously, so we will move quickly to take the necessary actions.

“God willing, we aim to implement this within this year,” he told reporters after attending the National Information Dissemination Centre (NADI) Advisory Panel chairman appointment letter presentation ceremony here.


Amirudin stressed that the relocation will not involve state government funding or land. Any new sites will be privately acquired, and an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will be required to ensure there are no adverse effects on rivers or surrounding areas.

Based on preliminary data from veterinary officers, the state currently has about 120,000 pigs, which meets only 30 per cent of local demand.

The Sungai Tua assemblyman said the state would engage independent bodies to conduct a detailed study to verify the numbers and ensure the relocation meets local needs without overexpansion.


“The original objective has always been to move away from traditional farming practices towards modern, non-polluting methods.

“Previously, our plan involved a three-year transition, but following His Royal Highness’s instruction, we will act immediately to shut down operations in Kuala Langat,” he said.

Amirudin said the state will work closely with affected operators, explaining the process and ensuring that proper waste management systems are in place at the new site to prevent contamination.

“The focus is on safety and environmental protection. The Sultan’s instruction has long been clear — there will be no export-oriented mega project, only the relocation and modernisation of local farms,” he said.

Amirudin: Family-friendly glamping allowed in Selangor, ‘deviant’ themes off-limits

Amirudin: Family-friendly glamping allowed in Selangor, ‘deviant’ themes off-limits



Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said many Malaysians, including political parties, individuals, and Members of Parliament, have expressed opposition to such activities, and the authorities will act if organisers attempt to defy the ruling. — Bernama pic

Tuesday, 13 Jan 2026 12:20 PM MYT


SHAH ALAM, Jan 13 — Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shaari said today that permits for glamping are issued based on the type of activity, adding that safe, family-friendly glamping remains acceptable in the state.

He was commenting in the wake of controversy surrounding themed glamping events, including those deemed inappropriate or “deviant.”

“If it is regular glamping, which is generally family-friendly, that is usually acceptable. I believe His Royal Highness’s decree is also not overly rigid. His Royal Highness’s concern is specifically directed at activities that are deviant and unacceptable,” he told reporters.

Amirudin said many Malaysians, including political parties, individuals, and Members of Parliament, have expressed opposition to such activities, and the authorities will act if organisers attempt to defy the ruling.


“I do not think such activities will be allowed to proceed. I am not certain, but if they continue to challenge the ruling, I will ask the authorities to take action,” he said.

The MB added that the community’s stance on inappropriate glamping events is clear.

“Safe, family-friendly glamping is fine, but not with that particular theme. The issue now is the theme, not glamping itself. Do not condemn glamping,” he said.


Amirudin’s comments come amid growing scrutiny of themed glamping programmes in the state, with religious authorities and community groups calling for compliance with societal norms.

Yesterday, Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, ordered state religious authorities to take firm action against any immoral activities involving what he described as deviant practices in Selangor.

The directive was conveyed to Selangor Islamic Religious Council (MAIS) chairman Datuk Salehuddin Saidin and Selangor Mufti Datuk Dr Anhar Opir during an audience with the Sultan at Istana Bukit Kayangan yesterday.

The meeting was held to convey the Sultan’s firm stance against the “Glamping With Pride” programme in Hulu Langat, scheduled to take place next week.

Court dismisses Najib's appeal to revive civil suit against ex-AG

Court dismisses Najib's appeal to revive civil suit against ex-AG

Hariz Mohd
Published: Jan 13, 2026 11:01 AM
Updated: 3:33 PM



The Court of Appeal this morning dismissed former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak's appeal to reinstate a RM1.9 million civil suit against former attorney-general Tommy Thomas.

In its judgment, a three-member bench led by P Ravinthran said that while the court disagreed with the High Court's earlier finding that an attorney-general has immunity against a civil suit, it was correct in finding that Najib's suit was premature.

The appellate court also ordered Najib to pay RM12,000 in costs to Thomas.

"The appeal is dismissed," Ravinthran said when reading out the decision today.

Two other members of the bench were Court of Appeal judges Wong Kian Kheong and Nadzarin Wok Nordin.

In their summary of judgment, the judges cited that they disagreed with High Court judge Ahmad Bache's finding that Thomas had immunity and his actions while in office were non-justiciable.

"With respect to the issue of immunity and justifiability, we disagree with the High Court decision as Article 145 (3) of the Federal Constitution does not confer immunity to the attorney-general with respect to civil suits taken against him personally.

"The cases that were cited by the High Court do not apply, as there are criminal cases where the discretion of the attorney-general was challenged.

"However, we agree with the High Court decision that since the criminal cases had not commenced when the instance civil suit was filed, the action for misfeasance, malicious process, and negligence is clearly premature. We also find that the tort of malicious process does not exist in our law."

Najib’s allegations

In his civil suit filed in 2020, Najib alleged Thomas had committed misfeasance in public office when he prosecuted him over charges related to the 1MDB case.

Najib’s lawsuit against Thomas is over the former finance minister’s alleged wrongful prosecution in four ongoing criminal cases, namely the RM2.28 billion 1MDB corruption case, the 1MDB audit report case, the RM6.6 billion International Petroleum Investment Company criminal breach of trust case, and the RM27 million SRC International money laundering case.

The former Pekan MP sought a declaration that Thomas had committed misfeasance in public office as well as RM1.9 million in damages, including negotiation fees for the audit team to review documentation for the preparation of facts to deal with the prosecution against him.

However, the High Court struck out the suit on Nov 25, 2022.

Ahmad had ruled that the former premier failed to provide evidence that Thomas committed misfeasance in public office, malicious process and negligence in the four court cases.

Ahmad pointed out that legal precedents still affirmed the fact that an attorney-general’s constitutional power under Article 145 of the Federal Constitution to commence or retract criminal charges cannot be challenged in court.