‘We’re no cowboy country’: Saifuddin says govt hears public anger but must manage refugee issue responsibly

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the government is aware of rising public anger over refugee management, particularly involving the Rohingya community, and is taking it into account while maintaining a policy approach grounded in law, security and humanitarian obligations. - Bernama file pic, June 11, 2026


‘We’re no cowboy country’: Saifuddin says govt hears public anger but must manage refugee issue responsibly


Home Minister says growing frustration must be acknowledged and managed, while policy remains guided by law, security and humanitarian considerations



Sandru Narayanan
Updated 2 minutes ago
11 June, 2026
8:30 PM MYT



KUALA LUMPUR – The government is aware of rising public anger over refugee management, particularly involving the Rohingya community, and is taking it into account while maintaining a policy approach grounded in law, security and humanitarian obligations, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said.

Speaking to Scoop, Saifuddin said public sentiment on the issue has become increasingly visible, especially across social media platforms, and must be managed responsibly rather than ignored.

“I am aware that public sentiment is increasingly rising on refugee management. On social media, the message is largely the same.

“The general view is for refugees to be deported or turned away. However, as a government, we cannot act based on emotion. We must consider the broader context and balance national security with humanitarian values,” he said.

Saifuddin said decisions on refugee policy must take into account Malaysia’s security interests, humanitarian responsibilities, and international standing, stressing that the issue cannot be approached simplistically.

He also dismissed allegations that authorities were carelessly issuing identity documents to refugees, saying such claims misrepresent the country’s legal and enforcement systems.

“There are accusations suggesting the government is carelessly giving identities to refugees, as if we have no laws or system in place… as though this is a ‘cowboy country’. That is not true, and we will not compromise on security,” he said.

He added that the Home Ministry continues to manage refugee-related matters within established legal and security frameworks, while also recognising the vulnerabilities of those seeking protection.

“We cannot avoid managing this issue. It must be handled wisely and humanely, while still safeguarding the country’s security, the people’s interests, and our international standing,” he said.

Public attention on the matter has intensified following an online petition launched by Aku Anak Malaysia on May 29, calling for Rohingya refugees to be repatriated or resettled in third countries. The petition has gathered more than 195,000 signatures as of Thursday and is targeting one million, advocating alternative approaches to manage ongoing arrivals.

Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay said the influx and unauthorised settlement of Rohingya refugees remains a long-standing challenge that requires cooperation beyond domestic enforcement agencies.

“This cannot be solved solely by the police, the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, or the Immigration Department. Any long-term solution requires engagement from countries of origin and the international community,” he said.

He cautioned that proposals for dedicated refugee settlement or transit centres are not straightforward, citing unresolved issues involving management, funding and third-country resettlement. He also warned that such facilities could become a pull factor for human smuggling syndicates.

Meanwhile, Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said enforcement actions against illegal structures occupied by Rohingya in Kampung Baru Sungai Makau, Ulu Langat, have been ongoing since 2016. He said authorities have carried out warning notices, investigations, integrated operations and demolitions, with monitoring and enforcement continuing where necessary.

Saifuddin’s remarks reflect a government position that seeks to balance public concerns with legal, security and humanitarian considerations in managing refugee issues. – June 11, 2026

Attacking DAP Won’t Save UMNO: Onn Hafiz Risks Repeating Akmal’s Politics of Symbolism Over Strategy

Malaysia's #1 Content Aggregator


OPINION | Attacking DAP Won’t Save UMNO: Onn Hafiz Risks Repeating Akmal’s Politics of Symbolism Over Strategy

Opinion
11 Jun 2026 • 9:30 AM MYT

Kpost
Operation Consultant who is a keen observer of politics and current affairs

Image Credit: Kpost | Illustration generated by Chatgpt


As Johor heads towards another state election, Johor Barisan Nasional chief Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi has chosen a familiar political script: attack DAP, reject cooperation, and portray himself as willing to sacrifice power for principle.


His declaration that he would rather forgo the Menteri Besar position than "sit at the same table" with DAP immediately grabbed headlines. Yet beyond the dramatic rhetoric lies a crucial political question: Is DAP really UMNO's biggest threat in Johor, or is this merely another attempt to consolidate Malay support by creating a convenient political enemy?



The strategy bears a striking resemblance to the political style adopted by UMNO Youth chief Datuk Dr Akmal Saleh. Time and again, Akmal has positioned himself as a defender of Malay interests by taking confrontational stances against DAP. Most recently, his suggestion that he might resign after party president Dato' Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi rejected calls for UMNO to leave the Unity Government was widely dismissed by analysts as a political gimmick rather than a genuine threat.


Now, Onn Hafiz appears to be adopting a similar approach.



The problem is that such politics may generate applause within certain segments of the party base, but it does little to address UMNO's actual electoral challenges.


In reality, DAP is not competing with UMNO for Malay votes.


The parties fighting directly for the Malay electorate are UMNO, Perikatan Nasional, and Parti Keadilan Rakyat. These are the parties contesting the same political space, appealing to similar voter demographics, and seeking to dominate the Malay political narrative.


By focusing attacks on DAP, UMNO risks fighting the wrong battle.



More importantly, the strategy could produce the exact opposite effect of what its proponents intend.


Many non-Malay voters have become increasingly frustrated with the performance of the Unity Government. Some have expressed disappointment over reforms that have progressed slower than expected, while others feel that coalition compromises have diluted Pakatan Harapan's original agenda.


Under normal circumstances, such dissatisfaction might result in lower voter turnout among DAP supporters.


However, when DAP becomes the primary target of political attacks, many of these voters are likely to return to the ballot box not because they are fully satisfied with DAP's performance, but because they perceive the attacks as an attempt to marginalise their political representation.



In other words, the more aggressively DAP is attacked, the more likely its supporters are to rally behind the party.


Rather than discouraging turnout, such rhetoric can energise DAP's voter base and strengthen solidarity among non-Malay communities who feel politically targeted.


This dynamic has been observed repeatedly in Malaysian politics. Political attacks intended to weaken DAP often end up reinforcing the perception that the party remains the principal defender of non-Malay interests, thereby consolidating its support rather than diminishing it.



Political commentator Tajuddin Rasdi recently criticised Onn Hafiz's stance, arguing that leaders should be willing to engage with those who hold different political views. He pointed out that Malaysia's founding leaders understood the importance of dialogue and compromise in governing a diverse nation. For example, Tunku Abdul Rahman met Communist Party of Malaya (CPM) leader Chin Peng during the Baling peace talks in 1955. He upheld the dignity of all parties involved and prioritised the interests of the nation above political differences.



The irony is particularly striking because DAP and UMNO leaders already sit together within the federal Unity Government framework. Cabinet ministers from both parties work collectively on national policies and administration. To claim that cooperation is impossible while simultaneously benefiting from a government built upon that cooperation creates an obvious contradiction.


Ultimately, voters are increasingly concerned about issues such as economic growth, job opportunities, cost of living pressures, investment attraction, infrastructure development, and governance. Endless political posturing against coalition partners may generate headlines, but it does not necessarily convince voters that a party has solutions to their daily concerns.



If UMNO hopes to regain lost ground among Malay voters, its focus should be on presenting a stronger vision than Perikatan Nasional and offering better policies than Parti Keadilan Rakyat. Those are its genuine competitors for political influence within the Malay electorate.


Attacking DAP may produce temporary political excitement, but it risks becoming a distraction from the real contest ahead. In the long run, symbolic confrontations and resignation threats may energise party loyalists, yet they are unlikely to solve UMNO's deeper electoral challenges.



The lesson from Akmal's political theatrics should be clear: symbolism may win headlines, but strategy wins elections.


By: Kpost

Hamzah expected to make major announcement this Saturday

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Hamzah expected to make major announcement this Saturday

11 Jun 2026 • 9:20 AM MYT

Sinar Daily
Comprehensive coverage on breaking news, lifestyle & insightful opinions

Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin - BERNAMA FILE PIX

SHAH ALAM - Former Opposition leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin is expected to make an important announcement regarding his political future.

The event, named the “Malaysia Reset Convention”, will take place at the Kota Harmoni Expo Site in Tanah Merah, Kelantan, this Saturday at 12:30pm.

Hamzah said every nation eventually reaches a point where its people must choose whether to remain divided or return to the basics through a process of “Reset.”

“Reset now for the future,” he said briefly on Wednesday.

Earlier, Tasek Gelugor MP Datuk Wan Saiful Wan Jan revealed that Hamzah’s supporters are expected to gather to learn about the new political direction under the leadership of the former Bersatu deputy president.

He also estimated that attendance could exceed 10,000 people.


Meanwhile, Indera Mahkota MP Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah hinted that an announcement on a new political party to contest future elections could be made during or shortly after the convention.

“We all support Hamzah. Membership in this new party will only be announced after the official declaration of its formation,” he said.



On Feb 14, Hamzah launched the “Reset” movement together with several Members of Parliament and grassroots supporters, one day after he was expelled and had his membership revoked by Bersatu.

He also expressed his willingness to lead the movement based on a new national consensus.

If no new party is formed, Hamzah - who currently sits beside Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin in the Dewan Rakyat - will continue serving as an Independent MP, alongside other MPs who were expelled from their parties.

Trump Says 'We'll Bomb The Sh*t Out Of Them' Tomorrow Too If No Deal, After Dozens Of Tomahawks Hit Iran

Trump Says 'We'll Bomb The Sh*t Out Of Them' Tomorrow Too If No Deal, After Dozens Of Tomahawks Hit Iran

by Tyler Durden
Thursday, Jun 11, 2026 - 07:08 PM


Summary

• Trump to FOX: 'We'll bomb the shit out of them tomorrow night.'" The president declared "we'll bomb them to rubble" again tomorrow night if there is no deal by then. US says strikes completed tonight.
• The IRGC is claiming to have struck 18 US military targets in two waves - including attack on Bahrain's US Fifth Fleet HQ.
• US begins strikes on Iran for second straight night: according to Centcom, "US forces began launching additional self-defense strikes today at 5:15 p.m. ET against multiple targets in Iran at the Commander in Chief’s direction. The strikes are in response to Iran’s unwarranted and continued aggression."
• Explosions had been heard in the Iranian towns of Sirik, Manab, Bandar Abbas and Bushehr,
• Hegseth confirms imminent attacks on key Iranian facilities
• Trump says "Will be attacking Iran hard again today"
• Trump says "secret mission" has reopened the Strait
• Trump tells Fox he "may keep going" with strikes.
• Trump says Iran took too long to negotiate, and now "will have to pay the price".
• Tehran claims prior night attacks in Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan as fulfilment of its previously vowed 'retaliation' - targeted the Fifth Fleet headquarters in Manama, footage shows.
• Iran again signals it could cut off all indirect talks & any negotiations, says it is 'reviewing' US talks after latest exchange of missiles.
  
  

* * *

Trump Warns: "We'll Bomb the Shit Out of Them" if No Deal

Fox News' Trey Yingst has issued a new reporting update, quickly on the heels of a fresh Trump-ordered bombing of Iran. He says: "I asked the president what will happen if the Iranians don't sign an agreement that was put forward by American negotiators. President Trump said, 'We'll bomb the shit out of them tomorrow night.'" The president declared "we'll bomb them to rubble" again tomorrow night if there is no deal by then.


US MILITARY SAYS IT HAS COMPLETED LATEST STRIKES IN IRAN

Tonight's aggression has prompted Tehran to once again declare the Strait of Hormuz closed to “all types of vessels”. Bombs have not yet fallen directly on the capital, but reportedly outside of it. This could quickly change. Importantly concerning Trump's latest claims, Iranian leadership is denying that it engaged Trump directly tonight. The highlights from Fox's Yingst:

• The President told me he spoke directly with Iranian officials tonight who asked him to stop bombing.
• 49 Tomahawk missiles had been fired by the United States at the time we spoke, along with bombing from fighter jets.
• Closest target to Tehran was approximately 40 miles outside of the city.
• Trump added that the bombing will stop shortly, but that if they don't sign the agreement, "we'll bomb the shit out of them."

President Trump called this "the most violated ceasefire in the history of the world."

Vice President JD Vance told me the United States is dealing with both moderate and more extreme voices in Iran as part of the negotiation process.


Tasnim is now reporting fresh Iranian counter-attacks on US bases across the Gulf, with multiple explosions being reported at American bases in Kuwait and Bahrain. The IRGC is now claiming to have struck 18 US military targets in two waves.

Bahrain is where a key naval command headquarters is located, and the Iranians are newly claiming a direct targeted strike on the US Navy's Fifth Fleet headquarters. 

We are once again witnessing the 'escalation ladder' ramp up, and negotiations seem in reality nowhere on the horizon. This could be the start of several more days of strikes and counter-attacks to come, as Tehran is not so easily going to come back to the negotiating table, hat in hand. But it seems the White House is still betting on this, though risk and unpredictability are skyrocketing at this stage.

Selangor worship guidelines stricter than PAS states, Khir Toyo handled churches better: Ronnie Liu

Selangor worship guidelines stricter than PAS states, Khir Toyo handled churches better: Ronnie Liu


Ex-DAP leader accuses state of introducing discriminatory restrictions on worship sites


Keran Raj
Updated 3 hours ago
11 June, 2026
8:00 AM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR – Former Selangor executive councillor Ronnie Liu has slammed the state government’s proposed guidelines for non-Muslim places of worship, calling them discriminatory and unprecedented, even when compared with policies in PAS-led states.

“You have restrictions on the height, restrictions on the size, you’ve got restrictions on the access to the places of worship. You totally ban any of these places of worship in new commercial areas, and no places of worship can be seen from the main road. That means you have to hide your places of worship, something like that.

“This has never happened before in any other states. Not in Kelantan under PAS, not in Terengganu, not in those states,” Liu told Scoop Insight host News Editor Azim Idris, with Editor-in-Chief Terence Fernandez also on the podcast.

Liu accused the Pakatan Harapan-led state of abandoning the inclusive principles associated with the Madani agenda.

“And you Selangor or PH, you’re supposed to be part of the madani. Madani means you’re open and fair and democratic and inclusive and all that. But this is more than not inclusive. This is like discriminatory. It’s a discrimination to me,” he said.

He questioned why Selangor was introducing measures he claimed were absent even in states under PAS rule. “It was not PAS that called for banning of pig farming in Malaysia. I mean, in Selangor. Pig farming continues in the states under PAS. And then the guidelines. All the states under PAS are not doing it. So why this… Why, why, why you guys want to do it? And why you guys want to do it? And why so degil (stubborn)?”

Liu urged the government to abandon the proposals entirely rather than review them. “So that’s why I call on the state government, instead of reviewing all that, just throw it away. Just throw it away. If you need to do new guidelines, do new guidelines. Forget it. You are totally wrong,” he said.

Former DAP leader Ronnie Liu speaks during an episode of Scoop Insight. – Scoop pic, June 11, 2026


He added that religious representatives had grown frustrated during consultations. “I heard there was a walkout, to be confirmed, when the representatives of some religion were invited for discussions when they cannot get assurance, they cannot get certain things. They walked out of the meeting,” he said.

The controversy has revived memories of former Selangor Menteri Besar Dr Mohamad Khir Toyo, whom Liu credited with resolving a long-standing church land dispute in Shah Alam. He cited the approval of the Church of Divine Mercy, which faced years of delays before receiving the green light under Khir’s administration.

“The credit must go to Khir Toyo,” Liu said.

“As long as you are doing the right thing, the majority accept it, you have to go ahead. That’s why Khir Toyo did the right thing by accepting the church in Shah Alam.”

Liu also highlighted that several leaders managing non-Muslim affairs in Selangor hail from DAP. “You have Paparaidu, you have Ng Sze Han, you have Ng Sue Lim. All three of them, all come from DAP. And DAP is supposed to be defender of freedom of religion and things like that. What are they doing? That’s why don’t blame me for naming them, to be responsible for the fiasco,” he said.

He warned that maintaining the guidelines could invite legal challenges. “So I can assure you if state governments stick to such guidelines, it will restrict the freedom of religion and things like that. So to me, I would call it unconstitutional,” Liu said.

The Selangor government has clarified that the guidelines will apply only to new commercial developments and will not affect existing temples, churches, gurdwaras, or other places of worship already operating in such areas. – June 11, 2026

THE U.S. KILLED three Indian sailors on Wednesday

From the FB page of:

Nury Vittachi 

Favorites ·tnSoporsde5ihl52cg711thf6am9h7cum65a0639mif1tt54aum2iaa850t6 ·

THE U.S. KILLED three Indian sailors on Wednesday, it was confirmed.

An American aircraft shot a missile into the tanker's engine room as it transited the Gulf of Oman, causing the death of three crewmen. They were likely blown to pieces, with their remains lost at sea.

It was the US’s eighth illegal attack on commercial ships.

The US navy said the Palau-flagged ship, the M/T Settebello, “repeatedly failed to comply with directions from American forces".

However, the US has no legal authority to give orders in the waters of Oman, which is more than 11,000 kilometers away from the American coast.

.

BROKENHEARTED

A family in Himachal Pradesh said they were brokenhearted after having been informed that one of the dead was their family member Aditya Sharma, who was serving as a deck cadet. They are hoping his remains can be recovered.

The Indian government expressed shock. "We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel Settebello off the coast of Oman, earlier today,” said India’s Ministry of External Affairs in a statement.

“Of the 24 Indian crew onboard, 21 Indians have been rescued thus far and three Indians are reportedly missing. Our Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and proactively coordinating with the Omani authorities in the ongoing Search and Rescue operation.”

.

SECOND ATTACK ON INDIAN CREW

On Monday, US forces bombed the Marivex, another oil tanker with an Indian crew in the Gulf of Oman, with a Palau registration.

In that instance, all 24 crew were rescued by the Omani military.

And again in that case, US Central Command said that the ship failed to comply with US instructions.

The US has intimidated 134 ships to turn away and attacked eight vessels whose crews defied threats, according to Centcom.

.

NO LEGAL RIGHT

But no country has the legal right to randomly stop ships anywhere in the world--let alone attack them. The US is doing what it claims Iran is doing, although the Iranians are clearly defending themselves on their own coastline.

Still, Washington, protected by powerful allies, including Israel and the UK, is never held accountable for war crimes.

"This is simply unacceptable," Arsenio Dominguez, secretary-general of the International Maritime Organization, said on Wednesday, after the killing of the Indian seamen were reported.

Three Indian sailors killed in US strike on oil tanker

Three Indian sailors killed in US strike on oil tanker

A US strike on an oil tanker accused of transporting Iranian oil has killed three Indian sailors. It was the second attack in three days on a ship carrying crew members from India.

MP SPEAKS | Non-Malay frustration, anger understandable, but...

MP SPEAKS | Non-Malay frustration, anger understandable, but...

William Leong
Published: Jun 11, 2026 5:59 PM
Updated: 7:59 PM



MP SPEAKS | Non-Malays are frustrated and angry with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Pakatan Harapan. Some say they will no longer vote for them or will not turn out to vote at all.

While this is a regrettable situation, their sentiments are understandable.

However, a pause for deeper reflection reveals that your vote still has the power to influence your future and your family’s future.

When you vote, it is not a vote for Anwar (PKR), Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (Umno), Abdul Hadi Awang (PAS), Muhyiddin Yasin (Bersatu), or their political parties. You are voting for yourself and your children.

You are voting for a life where you and your children can flourish with opportunities for growth in a modern democratic nation, living in a society free from insecurity, which cherishes our diversity, practices tolerance, and respects individual dignity.

By not voting, you surrender your power to choose your future to someone else, and that someone will not choose what is in your best interest.

There are four issues worth exploring in your reflection.


Disillusionment, frustration, and anger

Firstly, non-Malay feelings of frustration and anger arise from the disappointment, disillusionment, and a sense of betrayal because promised reforms are not delivered, policy compromises are made, and expectations remain unrealised.

These have resulted in voter apathy and reform fatigue.

The disappointment is not because Anwar and Harapan won GE15 to form the government; it is because they did not win GE15 but formed a government.

No coalition won 112 parliamentary seats to form the federal government: Harapan won 81, followed by Perikatan Nasional (74), BN (30), Gabungan Parti Sarawak (23), Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (six), Warisan (three), independents (two), with Muda, KDM, and Parti Bangsa Malaysia winning one each.

The Yang di-Pertuan Agong called on Anwar to form a unity government since no single political party or coalition won GE15.

Harapan agreed to the unity government for the reason that being part of the government is better than being in the opposition. Delivery of some reforms is better than none.

In other words, Harapan is a minority government in an uneasy post-electoral coalition. It consists of 19 component parties of different ideologies and priorities.

Much time and effort are needed for reforms and policies to secure consensus, compromises, agreement on modifications, sequencing, and priorities from the other component parties.

Unfortunately, Harapan supporters expected all promised reforms to be delivered, not only some.

The disillusionment and disappointment are the consequences of a minority government entering into an uneasy alliance with political parties that are at odds with one another.

The reality is that even if Anwar and Harapan are punished by their disillusioned supporters and obliterated in GE16, whichever parties form the next government will likely face the same situation.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim

This is because the two-party system has been replaced by a plural party environment.

Post-electoral coalitions would be the likely outcome of GE16 and future Malaysian elections unless the electorate gives an overwhelming majority to one single party or coalition to form the government.


Institutional constraints

Secondly, there are institutional and administrative constraints. Some of the slow progress of reform has to do with the reality of changing a deeply entrenched bureaucracy

However, we also need to acknowledge the flaws and missteps that the Unity Government has committed. These include administrative misjudgments and mistakes.

Some of these are legacy issues from previous administrations. An example is the relocation of the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple on Jalan Masjid India.

It could have been handled better, but it is not a case of the government issuing a policy for demolishing Hindu temples.

Civil servants and bureaucrats are duty-bound to serve the government of the day and to implement the ruling coalition’s policies.

However, as human beings, embedded within each are bureaucratic culture, beliefs, honest convictions, and operational procedures based on the policies and ideology of previous administrations.

Instances of administrative decisions conflicting with the new reformist approach are bound to occur.

It takes time for the transition of institutional and administrative personnel to change from the practices and mindsets of the previous administration to the new.

Frustration comes when we expect flawless results without accounting for human limitations and difficult prevailing circumstances.

Some flaws and missteps can be attributed to the tightrope that this administration has to walk between sensitive issues such as ethnic conditions, promises made by older administrations, and, in some cases, carelessness.

While these are deeply regrettable, we mustn’t lose sight of the fact that many seek to stir racial tensions and seize power for themselves, and the hope is that we can look past some of this administration’s flaws and imperfections to our nation’s future.

Arguably, an imperfect leader who is trying to maintain peace and harmony is better than giving it back to opportunists who are not above harming our social fabric for personal gain.


Green Wave

Thirdly, the decision not to vote may lead to unintended consequences. Reform fatigue may have caused us to lose sight of the dangers posed by the Green Wave.

The Green Wave in GE15 swept PAS to win 43 parliamentary seats to become the largest party in the Dewan Rakyat, and PN won 146 out of the 245 federal and state seats it contested.

This allowed the coalition to steamroll over the north and east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, forming three state governments and making major inroads into Penang, Perak, and Selangor.

Not voting in GE16 will allow the Green Wave to sweep into the federal government. The avowed ideology, struggle, and vision of PAS is to establish Malaysia as a theocratic Islamic state and the full implementation of syariah law.


Sensitive ethnic conditions

Fourthly, sequencing, priority, and laying the groundwork for reforms are important. Malaysian politics and society after GE15 have become deeply divided along ethnic lines.

The following is the breakdown of all 165 parliamentary seats in Peninsular Malaysia.

Out of 86 parliamentary seats with 65 percent or more Malay majority, PN won 67, BN 13, and Harapan six;


Out of 32 parliamentary seats with 51 percent to 64 percent Malay majority, PN won four, BN eight, and Harapan 20;


Out of 47 parliamentary seats with non-Malay majority, Harapan won 46, BN one, and PN did not win any.

The coalition that received the most Malay support is in the opposition, while the one with the least Malay support is in the government.

It is necessary to act with sensitivity and caution because any attempt at reforms that may be perceived as trampling on Malay special rights will have implications for political stability and social cohesiveness.

For reform to truly last, it has to go beyond passing a law in Parliament. It requires gaining public acceptance for durable and sustainable structural policies by changing mindsets.

It has to follow a sequence and process. It begins with reassuring those who fear they will be losers that they will gain instead. This can only be done by the delivery of actual social benefits and economic performance.

Fortunately, the process has started. Socially inclusive programmes based on needs, regardless of race and religion, have produced benefits for all.

In many of these programmes, every community is a winner, and no specific community is a loser.

The GDP has improved: 2023 - 3.6 percent; 2024 - 5.1 percent, 2025 - 5.2 percent.

According to the Department of Statistics, as of Oct 8 2025, the median income in Malaysia has increased by 5.1 percent to RM7,017 in 2024, and the mean income increased to RM9,155.00 at a growth rate of 3.9 percent.

Total foreign investments have recorded historical highs for each year: 2023 - RM329.5 billion; 2024 - RM384.4 billion; 2025 - RM426.7 billion; Total for the 3 years - RM1.14 trillion.

The value of the ringgit has risen from US$1 at RM4.55 in 2023 to the present of US$1 to RM3.88. Tourist arrivals for 2025 totalled 42.2 million, the highest in Southeast Asia. Unemployment is at 2.9 percent, the lowest since 2015.

A total of RM15 billion has been allocated for Sumbangan Asas Rahmah and Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah for 2026 for more than 8 million recipients, with some eligible recipients getting RM4,600 at the highest. Budi95 offers subsidised fuel at RM1.99/litre when the market price is nearly twice that amount at RM3.72 per litre.


Returning to moderation, national cohesion

More specifically, gaining the trust of 65 percent of Malaysia’s population is crucial, without whom no party can govern.

Many non-Malays are upset by the incendiary rhetoric and hate speeches made by those relying on fear-based narratives and blame Anwar for not taking action against them.

Those involved have, in fact, been charged. However, legal coercion by itself is not enough to stop hate speech and racial discrimination, and in certain cases, arresting the perpetrators risks turning them into martyrs, which furthers their goals.

An Islamic epiphany revival is needed for those making these speeches to realise they do not accord with Islamic jurisprudential principles that prioritise “masalah” (public interest).

There is a need to address elements which frame Islam as intolerant of other cultures and religions, with no compassion for other faiths, with a narrow and extreme construct of religion and God.

It is critical to stop the spread of dangerous ideas of racism and narrow ethno-religious intolerance of other cultures and faith.


Madani values

Academic Tajuddin Rasdi says Madani values offer a viable alternative that a Muslim yearns for: modernisation, progress, wealth, and all the good things a civil society and civilised human existence can provide.

These are based on tolerance, mutual respect, compassion, and magnanimity in a liberating, creative, and inclusive society.

Malaysia Madani provides the foundation for returning to inclusive and progressive nation-building, based on the values of moderate Islam. It is the only path to a better tomorrow.


Conclusion

There are valid causes for the disappointments. Having chosen the destination to a better life, disappointment is not a reason for letting someone else choose a different destination for you.

It’s best not to change horses midstream. Let’s gird ourselves for one more push. Let’s not be remembered as the generation that surrendered our nation to a darker tomorrow.

WILLIAM LEONG is Selayang MP.

PAS has urged us to stay in PN, says MIPP president

PAS has urged us to stay in PN, says MIPP president


2 hours ago
Elill Easwaran


P Punithan says MIPP is weighing offers from other coalitions as well

MIPP president P Punithan said the party will decide its political future after a central committee meeting on Sunday.

PETALING JAYA: PAS has asked the Malaysian Indian People’s Party (MIPP) to remain in Perikatan Nasional (PN), said party president P Punithan after a nearly two-hour meeting today.

Punithan said the meeting, attended by PN chairman Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar among others, discussed the coalition’s direction in the wake of PAS’s decision to end political cooperation with Bersatu.

“The meeting was positive. We discussed PN’s direction and ways to strengthen the coalition,” he told FMT.


Punithan said MIPP also informed PAS that it had received offers from outside the coalition but was urged to remain in PN.

“We have told them we will make a decision on Sunday after meeting with our central committee and they agreed.”


PAS, Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional have all made overtures to MIPP amid the turmoil following the PAS-Bersatu split.

PN information chief Annuar Musa had previously said that component parties would meet this week to discuss the coalition’s direction.

He said PAS remained committed to multiracial political cooperation and welcomed the continued roles of MIPP and Gerakan within PN.

Gerakan has reaffirmed its commitment to PN, saying it will continue to play a constructive role in strengthening the coalition.

Indonesia's planned missile deployment along the Strait of Melaka will shift regional power dynamics

Murray Hunter
Jun 11, 2026


Indonesia's planned missile deployment along the Strait of Melaka will shift regional power dynamics

Malaysia is about to be militarily encircled by Indonesia






In a development that has raised eyebrows across Southeast Asia, reports indicate that Indonesia is preparing to deploy advanced Indian-made BrahMos supersonic missiles along its side of the Strait of Malacca. According to a June 8, 2026, report by MalaysiaNow, citing anonymous Jakarta sources, the plan was discussed during a high-level inter-agency meeting on May 20. The move aligns with broader efforts by President Prabowo Subianto’s administration to bolster Indonesia’s maritime defense capabilities in one of the world’s most critical chokepoints.

The BrahMos, a joint India-Russia supersonic cruise missile system, is renowned for its speed of up to Mach 3, a range of approximately 300 km, and its ability to carry significant payloads. If deployed at strategic points along the Sumatran coastline facing the Strait, these missiles could provide Indonesia with potent anti-ship and land-attack capabilities, enabling rapid response to potential threats in the narrow waterway. The timing coincides with anticipated formalization during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Indonesia in July 2026. Indonesia would join the Philippines and Vietnam as Southeast Asian operators of the system.

This latest development is part of a larger pattern of Indonesian military modernization over the past several years. Under successive administrations, and accelerating under Prabowo, Jakarta has pursued an ambitious procurement drive to upgrade its armed forces (TNI). Indonesia has acquired advanced fighter jets from multiple suppliers, including French Rafales, American F-15EX variants, Turkish KAAN fighters, and ongoing involvement in the South Korean KF-21 program. Naval capabilities have also expanded with new frigates from the UK (Arrowhead 140 design), Italy, and Turkey, alongside submarines and other assets. Defense budgets have seen nominal increases, with plans discussed to raise spending toward 1.5% of GDP, reflecting a push for greater self-reliance and deterrence amid regional tensions.

Additional procurements include Turkish KHAN ballistic missiles, making Indonesia the first in Southeast Asia with such systems, and interest in various drones and maritime technologies. This “retail approach” to acquisitions—from diverse suppliers like France, the US, Turkey, India, and others—aims to fill capability gaps quickly but has drawn criticism for potential logistical and interoperability challenges. Nevertheless, it signals Jakarta’s determination to transform its military from a primarily defensive force into one with greater power projection, particularly in its vast archipelagic waters.

The Strait of Malacca, a 900-km waterway separating Sumatra from Peninsular Malaysia, is a vital artery for global trade. It carries a massive portion of East Asia’s energy imports and commercial shipping between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Indonesia’s push to assert greater influence here draws parallels to Iran’s role in the Strait of Hormuz. In April 2026, Prabowo reportedly emphasized Indonesia’s strategic position, noting that significant shares of regional trade and energy pass through its waters. Subsequent comments by officials about potential levies on shipping, though later walked back, unsettled neighbors like Malaysia and Singapore, who have long cooperated with Indonesia on joint patrols against piracy and other threats.

Some analysts suggest that deploying BrahMos missiles would markedly shift the balance of power in the Strait toward Indonesia. Currently, the waterway operates under principles of international navigation with collaborative security arrangements among littoral states. Supersonic missiles on the southern shore could introduce new deterrence dynamics, allowing Indonesia to monitor and potentially influence passage more assertively. This might enhance Jakarta’s leverage in maritime governance and economic negotiations but could also heighten tensions, complicate freedom of navigation, and prompt responses from Malaysia, Singapore, or external powers like the US and China, who have interests in secure sea lanes.

The US-Indonesia Major Defense Cooperation Partnership, signed in April 2026, adds another layer. It expands potential US access to Indonesian airspace and capabilities, possibly for surveillance over the Strait, even as Indonesia diversifies partners including India.

Critics warn that militarizing the Strait risks disrupting cooperative mechanisms, increasing uncertainties for energy supplies and global trade, and sparking an arms race dynamic in Southeast Asia. Proponents in Jakarta view it as necessary modernization in an era of great-power competition, where control over chokepoints translates into strategic relevance.


Kalimantan Military Build-up

Indonesia’s military build-up is not just restricted to the Strait of Melaka. Indonesia has also been strengthening its military footprint in Kalimantan, the Indonesian portion of Borneo that shares a long land border with Malaysia’s states of Sabah and Sarawak.

In recent years, Jakarta has expanded army border posts, increased troop presence, and modernized capabilities in the region, including the reported stationing of Turkish-made KHAN ballistic missiles in East Kalimantan near disputed maritime areas like Ambalat. The relocation of Indonesia’s new capital to Nusantara in East Kalimantan is further driving infrastructure development that supports greater logistical and military sustainment across the island.

Combined with the planned deployment of advanced supersonic missiles along its Sumatran coastline facing the Strait of Malacca, these developments position Indonesia with significant strategic leverage on both the western maritime approaches and the eastern land border of Peninsular and East Malaysia. Analysts note that this dual posture effectively creates a pincer-like strategic encirclement around Malaysia, enhancing Indonesia’s ability to project power and influence in key chokepoints and border areas, potentially altering longstanding regional power balances in Southeast Asia.

As the region watches developments ahead of Modi’s visit, Indonesia’s actions underscore its evolving role as a more assertive maritime player. While enhancing its own security, the missile deployments could reshape longstanding assumptions about stability in the Malacca Strait, with implications extending far beyond Southeast Asia. The coming months will reveal whether this contributes to a more secure or a more contested maritime domain.

The Manchurian electorate in Johor and Negeri Sembilan, how big?

The Manchurian electorate in Johor and Negeri Sembilan, how big?



Thursday, 11 Jun 2026 9:41 AM MYT

By Praba Ganesan


JUNE 11 — Fascinating does not entirely encapsulate the insane stratagems underway in Johor and Negeri Sembilan’s elections.

Granted they are extensions of national anxieties accelerated by these assembly polls.

The Election Commission (EC) meets tomorrow, June 12, to decide polling day, most likely around the World Cup final on July 20.

An overarching theme to the elections is identity politics and its grip on our national politics.


The July vote counts will put to bed the notion, or not, that race gets an outsized say still in 2026 Malaysia.


A litmus test of how far the country has come, and whether the spirit of 2022 reemerges.

It’s loud out there. The key developments involve the Perikatan Nasional's (PN) existential crisis, Barisan Nasional’s (BN) return to basics via induced amnesia and Pakatan Harapan’s hold to its tradition driven by DAP.


Dancing around all this is Anwar Ibrahim, waiting without cutting ties with anyone.

The grand unity plan

The Islamist PAS turned the heat up to maximum this week by announcing an end to co-operation with Bersatu.

Yet, this decision does not mean its exit from PN. Read between the lines, PAS feels it took the relationship as far as possible and it’s time Muhyiddin Yassin’s troops vacated the PN residences.

Funnily, Bersatu feels the same way. A classic separation with paperweights cum partner cum offspring Gerakan and Malaysian Indian People’s Party (MIPP) hoping beyond hope they do not get sent to orphanages.

PAS wants the new girlfriend Reset Malaysia to move in.

And also, extends invites to every Malay-first organisation. It rounded up Parti Pejuang Tanah Air (Pejuang), Parti Bumiputera Perkasa Malaysia (Putra), Parti Berjasa Malaysia (Berjasa) and Parti Perikatan India Muslim Nasional (Iman). Ibrahim Ali gets a lifeboat from his old PAS pals.

PAS reactivated Annuar Musa, former Umno secretary-general and now central committee member, to resuscitate Muafakat Nasional immediately.

Ask Umno to submit to the greater good, the ultimate unity vehicle. Annuar says it does not matter what it is called as long as all Malay leaders come together, right now. I'd call it Trantor.

Muafakat gets the firm support from Umno Youth Chief Akmal Saleh but not party president Zahid Hamidi.

Zahid is not amiss to sense PAS wants to overwhelm Umno’s current Rumah Bangsa with its even bigger ambition.



The author argues that the Johor and Negeri Sembilan elections are being driven by a contest over identity politics, with parties trying to outdo each other as more important issues are sidelined. — Picture by Firdaus Latif



PAS wants it all. Because lightweights Gerakan and MIPP are asked to stay despite them allowed zero input to the PAS manoeuvres.

They are so light, they have to stay, less risk floating away to Neptune, or even as far as Trantor.

Do not misunderstand, the “others” parties are welcome but the goal is to be the unapologetic grand Malay-first coalition. Umno is welcome but this train is departing from the platform, either way.

This is PAS’ riposte to Bersatu, it builds a better supergroup than PN in 2022. Except despite the inroads in that general election for both PAS and Bersatu in the Semenanjung back then, the former did not win any parliamentary seats in Johor or Negeri Sembilan.

PAS style does not click as much in the south but ambition they believe can take them across the finishing line.

PAS has a single strategy, that Malaysians have got even more polarised, especially the lower age-groups and they will heed the clarion call. That enough Malays will vote for the grand coalition.

This is more PAS than PN, and the evidence is not only in the decision to use the party logo for Johor.

It is more evident in how muted PN chairman Samsuri Mokhtar is, ceding authority to his party leaders Hadi Awang and Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man.


Umno gets mirrored

Up to June, when Onn Hafiz set a course for elections, Umno was on the up.

Its 80th anniversary, and the homecoming of who’s who in Malay politics. Even MCA and MIC were out partying in the streets, ready to collect seat victories on the shoulder of big brother.

They felt the only downside was the association with Pakatan inside the Madani government, and therefore the need to put distance between Umno and DAP.

That’s what they thought till PAS went into overdrive this week.

Now, they are in a race to rack up their Malay credentials as PAS and Reset Malaysia play up their romance for the sake of Malays under threat.

It has to politely shy away from PAS’ “true” Malay movement even if Akmal foolishly wills it.

Expect the op-eds on how Pejuang, Iman and Putra saddling up beside PAS is insignificant.

After all, as Gerakan Tanah Air (GTA), all three parties lost all deposits at the 2022 General Election.

Yet, younger voters are a bother.

At the last state polls, with 55 per cent turnout, BN snatched 40 of the 56 seats, or 71 per cent.

Eight months later at the general election when 73 per cent or an increase of over one million voters, BN only secured nine of the 26 seats (35 per cent). When more showed up, ostensibly more younger voters, BN suffered.


The Manchurian Test

In the 1962 thriller The Manchurian Candidate, a political candidate was brainwashed with a trigger word planted through hypnosis.

That the candidate cannot help himself, the idea is too embedded in the person that once activated he can only do what he is programmed to do.

Malaysia may have a degree of the Manchurian Candidate, in our case the voters, not the election candidates.

That Malay voters — by virtue of living through lives dominated by PAS clerics and Umno right-wingers — cannot refuse the allure of the dream united Malay movement. That once triggered, everything else pales in significance.

For the sake of balance, let’s consider Johor’s challenges.

Facilitate the Johor- Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) undertaking. While GDP growth exceeds the national average, electricity supply is not amped up to match the investment.

This is central to the jobs creation venture to raise the state median monthly wage above the national median which is a couple of hundred above RM3,000. With better and higher paying jobs, the ability to own homes in an inflated market.

While the Johor Economic Transformation Plan intends to raise the game at the other towns — Mersing, Segamat, Kluang and Batu Pahat for instance — it is still about the state capital region gobbling up growth.

The RTS Link, the game-changer ,kicks off in 2027 but question marks ensue about the Johor end processing 40,000 passengers daily.

If smooth travels from the Singapore end are met by bottlenecks on the Johor side, all may come to naught.

That’s just a short list, and insanely, none are campaign issues.

Both Umno-BN and PAS-Muafakat are convinced that the votes centre around who is more Malay dedicated and the Manchurian effect triggers as election day looms.

Which means, if like in 2022, the online vitriol hits fever pitch to drown out all other considerations.

Scare voters about the spectre of not-Malay enough winners, and therefore government.

There is a toll here. The sanity of the people. The Manchurian effect is about psychological trauma, in this case of entire peoples'.

That people are constantly made to be afraid of dangers they cannot see and the need to suspend reason and to become completely tribal.

These politicians forget that these people they milk for votes have to live between elections too.

Living daily with the fear of the loss of Malay power leaves a regular person troubled. And fuels social ills. Not that the politicians care, they have elections to win.