Shafee's remarks on house arrest verdict reasonable - veteran lawyer

Shafee's remarks on house arrest verdict reasonable - veteran lawyer

Farah Solhi
Published: Dec 24, 2025 8:00 PM
Updated: 11:00 PM



Legal expert Haniff Khatri Abdulla has described senior lawyer Shafee Abdullah’s remarks following former premier Najib Abdul Razak’s house arrest verdict on Monday as reasonable.

When contacted recently, he said Shafee’s remarks should not be singled out and scrutinised by sentences, but instead, be looked upon in their whole context.

“I must be very clear here. When you’re talking about possible contempt (or) rudeness to the court and all that, you cannot just look at one sentence (but) you must look at the whole picture.

“The statement, about how the verdict impacted the rulers’ powers, is a corollary conclusion from what he said earlier, which is, if the judge is correct in her interpretation, then the result of it is that the powers of the king are now questioned, shackled, and that the court is higher than the king’s power.

“That is a reasonable conclusion,” said Haniff (above, right).

Former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak


He added that one cannot refrain from telling the court that they may have made a controversial error, as well as to let the public know there must be a separation of powers between the courts, Parliament, and the executive.

On Monday, the Kuala Lumpur High Court dismissed Najib’s house arrest bid after finding that the royal decree by the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong that permits him to serve the remainder of his jail sentence at home was invalid under the law as it was not issued according to procedures laid out under Article 42 of the Federal Constitution.

The former prime minister, in his application, claimed that the royal addendum was a supplementary order to the Pardons Board’s decision in late January last year to halve his 12-year SRC International jail sentence and reduce his RM210 million fine to RM50 million.

The sentence stems from convictions for abuse of power, criminal breach of trust, and money laundering involving RM42 million from SRC International.


READ MORE: High Court grounds of judgment in Najib's rejected house arrest bid


Strong responses to remarks

In a press conference after the proceedings, Shafee claimed that the verdict reduces the powers of the Malay rulers.

Shafee had also asked for the Malay rulers and the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to review the court’s decision, which he claimed would have a major impact on their powers.

However, his statements received strong responses, with DAP veteran Teng Chang Khim calling for the senior counsel to be cited for contempt of court.

DAP veteran Teng Chang Khim


Teng, in his statement, claimed that Shafee’s remarks were “ridiculous and amusing”, as well as claiming it was absolutely political, unethical, and unbecoming of a member of the Malaysian Bar to make such a remark outside the courtroom.

In a statement today, former deputy law minister Hanipa Maidin questioned whether the senior lawyer’s remarks meant that he was trying to rewrite Article 42 of the Constitution.

“Shafee seems to have conveniently ignored or completely disregarded the crucial word in Article 42, namely, the word ‘advice’. Instead, he used the word ‘discuss’.

“He ought to be fair. The constitutional language enshrined in Article 42 is crystal clear. Such prerogative powers must be exercised on the advice of a Pardons Board,” Hanipa said.

Following the High Court’s dismissal, Najib will remain in Kajang Prison to serve the rest of his sentence pending his appeal.

With his reduced jail time of six years, Najib’s sentence will end in August 2028. However, he may be released on good behaviour in August next year after serving two-thirds of his revised sentence.

Can Anwar win the next G.E.? - Koon Yew Yin

Koon Yew Yin's Blog

Can Anwar win the next G.E.? - Koon Yew Yin

Koon Yew Yin
Publish date: Wed, 24 Dec 2025, 05:51 PM


After the last general election on 19th Nov 2022, since no single party has enough of seats to form the government, Anwar formed the coalition government by joining Pakatan Harapan 82 seats with Barisan Nasional 30 seats, Gabungan Parti Sarawak 23 seats and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah 6 seats, totalling 141 seats.

Anwar has been Prime Minister for slightly more than 3 years. In less than 2 years Malaysia will have to hold the next G.E.

Can Anwar win again to be P.M.?

There are signs of dissatisfaction among UMNO members within the coalition government, though the extent varies by faction and region. Some UMNO leaders have openly expressed frustration, while others remain committed to the unity government.

Evidence of UMNO Discontent

Internal Strains: UMNO has warned coalition allies against poaching its members, even delivering a protest note in August 2025 to signal growing tension.

UMNO’s protest note in August 2025 was a formal warning to coalition partners. The note emphasized that such actions could seriously strain relations within the Unity Government.

Based on the above facts, UMNO will not join Pakatan Harapan in the coming G.E.

Under the political situation, Anwar should invite Perikatan Nasional to form a strong coalition and call a snap election.

In the last G.E. Pakatan Harapan won 82 seats and Perikatan Nasional won 73 seats, the new coalition will have 155 seats to fight in the snap election. The new coalition will most likely win and Anwar can be Prime Minister again.

I wrote 2 books. My first book “Road Map to Vision 2020” was launched by former Finance Minister Tengku Razzali’. My second book “New Road Map To A Developed Nation” was launched by Anwar in January 2021 just before he became Prime Minister.

As shown below Kula, Kit Siang and I campaigned for Anwar in the last general election.

Pakatan Harapan (PH) leader Anwar Ibrahim has scored a comfortable win in the much-watched battle for the Tambun Parliament seat, marking a successful electoral debut from Perak.

Datuk Seri Anwar, 75, won a four cornered fight in Tambun with an unofficial majority of 3,736 votes, comfortably defeating his closest challenger Ahmad Faizal Azumu, a federal minister, former Perak Menteri Besar, and rival Perikatan Nasional (PN) deputy chairman.

Ramasamy: Like PMX, UMNO should have opted for Bossku’s full pardon, not house arrest

Ramasamy: Like PMX, UMNO should have opted for Bossku’s full pardon, not house arrest

By Prof Ramasamy Palanisamy
8 hours ago





IT HAS been alleged that that Pardons Board that freed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim who was then the Opposition leader was not properly constituted.


The absence of the representation of the Attorney-General (AG) and the Federal Territories Minister was the reason.


Nonetheless, Anwar received the full pardon from the then Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Muhammad V of Kelantan in May 2018.

It was this royal pardon that allowed Anwar to contest in the 15th General Election (GE15) in November 2022 prior to assuming the premiership.


It must be remembered that the royal pardon of Anwar did not erase the fact of his earlier conviction and incarceration.

Despite the doubts cast on whether there was proper full Pardons Board, Anwar was granted the royal pardon.

Why didn’t UMNO pursue full pardon?

I find it strange that in the case of incarcerated former PM Datuk Seri Najib Razak, it was not the application for full royal pardon but one that sought house arrest on the basis of a royal addendum.

Najib’s judicial review in seeking house arrest on the basis of royal addendum was said to have existed outside the Pardons Board.

In other words, the royal addendum was not put through the decision-making process in the Pardons Board.

It was the absence of this factor that Najib’s judicial review was rejected on the grounds that it lacked the constitutional basis.



The question is simple: if Anwar, then the Opposition leader, was given the full pardon despite some issues with the nature and function of the Pardons Board, why was Najib who is an ex- premier and son of the late second PM Tun Abdul Razak Hussein was not given the chance for a full pardon but instead a house arrest option.

UMNO might not have full control of the government but surely it could have pursued the full pardon for Najib assuming the party still loves him.

After all, UMNO president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is Malaysia’s Deputy PM and has close relations with Anwar.

UMNO has itself to blame

Surely, this nexus could have enabled UMNO to pursue the prospect of full pardon rather than a partial one in the form of house arrest.

UMNO leaders can cry and mourn regarding the Kuala Lumpur High Court’s rejection of the house arrest bid but surely they must accept the responsibility of not pursuing a full royal pardon for Najib.

When it comes to the question of who deserves the full pardon – Anwar or Najib – the latter being the former premier deserves the full pardon.

It is not that Anwar was not deserving but the only thing is that whether the Pardons Board was legally and constitutionally constituted.

Najib’s lawyers might be appealing the decision of the KL High Court, an act that has to be logically followed through.



Anyway, my question to Anwar is simple and straightforward: what is your position on the grant of full pardon for Najib?

If you deserved it, surely Najib deserves the full royal pardon.

Meanwhile, UMNO should forget about some of the irritating comments from some DAP leaders; they (UMNO) are like candles burning bright before they are extinguished.

UMNO was for three years in power by virtue of its partnership with the Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition yet sadly, it never fully and rigorously pursued the option of full pardon for Najib.

Regrettably, it was just contented with the half-hearted measure of seeking house arrest. – Dec 24, 2025



Ramasamy Palanisamy is chairman of the United Rights of Malaysian Party (Urimai) interim council.

Rethink your position in govt, Ku Li tells Umno

FMT:

Rethink your position in govt, Ku Li tells Umno

4 hours ago

Rex Tan

The Umno adviser claims the High Court ruling in Najib Razak's addendum case goes against Umno’s struggle to uphold the sovereignty of the Malay rulers

Umno veteran Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah speaking in a press conference in Kuala Lumpur.

KUALA LUMPUR: Umno veteran Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah has advised the party’s top leadership to reconsider its position in the unity government following the dismissal of former prime minister Najib Razak’s judicial review application to serve the remainder of his SRC International Sdn Bhd jail sentence under house arrest.

The Umno adviser, popularly known as Ku Li, claimed the Kuala Lumpur High Court’s ruling on Monday undermines the party’s struggle to uphold the sovereignty of the Malay rulers.

“Umno should rethink its position in the government. Those holding positions (in the government) should also consider relinquishing them so we can reunite the party and reassess our stance.


“We cannot rely on others all the time. Our party has its own constitution and regulations, which we must respect and obey.

“There’s no point in continuing our struggle just for positions,” he said in a press conference.


His call comes as Umno secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said Umno should consider reviewing its cooperation with those who did not appreciate the party’s contributions.

He made the remark after DAP’s Puchong MP Yeo Bee Yin celebrated the High Court’s decision on Najib’s application in social media.

Tengku Razaleigh also urged Umno’s top leaders to hold discussions and reach a resolution that would satisfy all levels of the party, noting that he had not yet heard of such plans from the party’s highest leadership.

He said many Umno members had expressed disappointment over the court’s decision against Najib, a former Umno president.


“I sympathise with Najib. We recognise that the court has made a ruling, but efforts must also be made (to free Najib)… including seeking a new pardon from the current Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

“Perhaps Umno leaders are silent now because this is a legal matter. But it also concerns the party, so we must make a decision and strive to ease the burden borne by Najib.”

The Kuala Lumpur High Court dismissed Najib’s bid to serve his reduced six-year jail term for his SRC International conviction under house arrest after stating there were no legal mechanisms for it.

Najib, 72, was convicted of misappropriating RM42 million in SRC International funds and has been serving his sentence at Kajang prison since Aug 23, 2022.


In 2024, the Federal Territories Pardons Board halved his prison term from 12 years to six and reduced his fine from RM210 million to RM50 million.

A judicial review was filed last year seeking to compel the government to execute a royal addendum, or supplementary decree, to place him under house arrest.

In a statement yesterday, the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) rejected claims that the decision to dismiss Najib’s judicial review application over the addendum had diminished the powers of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the Malay rulers, or governors in matters concerning pardon.

Suhakam: Sending girls to religious dept over statutory rape against Constitution

Suhakam: Sending girls to religious dept over statutory rape against Constitution


Published: Dec 24, 2025 12:13 PM
Updated: 3:21 PM


Suhakam reminds the police that referring minors involved in statutory rape cases to Islamic enforcement authorities for action is inconsistent with the Federal Constitution, as criminal law matters fall under the Federal List.

This came after Kelantan police chief Yusoff Mamat said last week that girls aged 16 and below caught for consensual sex will be referred to the Kelantan Islamic Department (Jaheaik) for further action under the syariah courts.

The human rights commission stressed that with rape being on the Federal List, investigations into the matter are under the purview of the police - not the state religious department.

“Malaysia is also party to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which requires us to ensure that all children are protected from sexual exploitation and abuse, and that the best interests of the child are treated as a primary consideration in all actions concerning children.

“Statutory rape must therefore be addressed as a serious criminal offence against children, through processes that are lawful, child-sensitive and rights-compliant,” it said in a statement today.

On Dec 18, Yusoff was reported as saying that five of such cases had been referred to Jaheaik so far, in line with the Kelantan ruler’s decree for the police to work with the state religious department on statutory rape cases.

“In the last two months, we have referred five teenage girls involved in consensual sex to Jaheaik for further action.

“The male suspects had been charged in court, but because there is no existing legal provision for the girls, we referred them to Jaheaik,” Yusoff was quoted as saying by Berita Harian.

In September, Yusoff sparked controversy after he personally suggested that girls involved in statutory rape cases should be charged alongside the adult male perpetrator.

The issue had also sparked a debate among legal and child welfare experts, who believe the law should be reformed to provide a holistic approach when close-in-age teens are involved.

Prioritise minors’ welfare

While it respects Islamic laws and religious institutions within the legal and social framework, Suhakam said its primary concern is the welfare of the minors involved in statutory rape.

It added that Yusoff’s latest statement may contribute to moral panic and reactions that are not grounded in the legal framework.

Kelantan police chief Yusoff Mamat


“Approaches that rely solely on punishment fail to recognise that teenagers are children under the law, whose evolving capacities, vulnerability and immaturity must be understood within the spirit and intent of the Child Act 2001, read together with Malaysia’s obligations under the CRC.

“Evidence has consistently shown that purely punitive measures are ineffective in preventing the recurrence or escalation of statutory rape and may instead compound harm to children,” Suhakam said.

Reform laws

The commission urged the government to reform the criminal justice system to better reflect the realities faced by children and young people, with many undergoing socio-economic disadvantage, violence, and neglect.

When it comes to crime prevention, Suhakam urged the government to focus on child-centred and rights-based approaches, including limiting detention and strengthening social interventions involving families, schools, and community support networks.

“In this regard, Suhakam underscores that reforms to the Penal Code and the Criminal Procedure Code are necessary to promote positive behaviour change, enhance child protection, and support rehabilitation.

“This is in line with constitutional principles and international human rights standards,” it added.

When some applaud the rejection of the House arrest application as though it were a political triumph, they are applauding the effective dismissal of a royal act

Justice as spectacle: When celebrations replace reflection

SA Vigneswaran
Published: Dec 24, 2025 9:35 AM
Updated: 12:37 PM



COMMENT | Recent public reactions to the High Court’s decision on former premier Najib Abdul Razak’s house arrest application have revealed a troubling trend: justice has been transformed into spectacle.

Certain political actors, including Tony Pua, have openly framed the court’s ruling as a moment for celebration, pride, and political self-congratulation.

Arrests are cheered. Convictions are applauded. Judicial outcomes are treated as scorecards. Victory laps are taken.

This is not the law; this is entertainment.

Courts are not scoreboards, judges are not referees in a political contest, and justice is not validated by public applause, especially when that applause is fuelled by personal animosity rather than constitutional principle.

Dangerous selective amnesia

What is conspicuously absent from these celebrations is context.

The house arrest application did not arise in a vacuum. It followed a royal proclamation, issued through proper constitutional processes.

When some now applaud the rejection of the application as though it were a political triumph, they are, whether intentionally or not, applauding the effective dismissal of a royal act.

That should trouble every Malaysian.

Belittling or mocking a royal decree is not merely disrespectful to an individual; it risks undermining the constitutional framework itself.

The issue before the court was not a personality contest. In substance, it was the legal effect of a royal decree that stood for scrutiny.

To reduce such a matter to a punchline is profoundly irresponsible.

Respect for institutions not optional

Equally reckless are claims that the courts have somehow “overruled” the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. That narrative is not just inaccurate, it is constitutionally dangerous.

The Agong acts within the framework of the Federal Constitution. Respect for the monarchy is demonstrated by fidelity to that framework, not by distortion, mockery, or selective outrage.

It bears repeating: His Majesty acted after due consultation and in accordance with established constitutional processes.

To ridicule the king for doing precisely what the Constitution requires is to attack the very institutions that safeguard Malaysia’s democratic order.

There is a bitter irony here. Many of the loudest celebrants are often the quickest to lecture others about restraint on the so-called 3Rs: race, religion, and royalty.

Yet in their eagerness to mock, cheer, and provoke, they have already crossed into dangerous territory involving race and royalty themselves.

Apparently, restraint is only fashionable when convenient.

Justice demands dignity, not pleasure

Let this be clear: no one is asking for sympathy. But a mature democracy must at least demand dignity, restraint, and respect for institutions.

Someone’s arrest, conviction, or failed application is not a reality show. It is not a national festival. It is not a source of pleasure.

Courts are not stages, verdicts are not trophies, and constitutional institutions, including the monarchy, are not conveniences to be mocked when outcomes align with partisan sentiment.

When justice is reduced to entertainment, restraint is abandoned, and dignity is lost, democracy itself begins to resemble theatre.

That should concern every Malaysian who values the Constitution, the integrity of our courts, and respect for the institutions that hold this nation together.

SA VIGNESWARAN is MIC president.

***

Very good article by Vignes.

When some now applaud the rejection of the application as though it were a political triumph, they are, whether intentionally or not, applauding the effective dismissal of a royal act.

That should trouble every Malaysian.

Pancung Pancung Pancung

Najib's House Arrest - The Saga Continues

kt FB:

Najib's House Arrest:

DAP Tony Pua: Don't stop us from rejoicing

DAP Ong Kian Ming: Time to think full pardon for Najib

One enjoys schadenfreude, the other is compassionate

& a brief extract from MKINI:


Recent public reactions to the High Court’s decision on former premier Najib Abdul Razak’s house arrest application have revealed a troubling trend: justice has been transformed into spectacle.

Certain political actors, including Tony Pua, have openly framed the court’s ruling as a moment for celebration, pride, and political self-congratulation.

Arrests are cheered. Convictions are applauded. Judicial outcomes are treated as scorecards. Victory laps are taken.

This is not the law; this is entertainment.



Courts are not scoreboards, judges are not referees in a political contest, and justice is not validated by public applause, especially when that applause is fuelled by personal animosity rather than constitutional principle.

Dangerous selective amnesia

What is conspicuously absent from these celebrations is context.

The house arrest application did not arise in a vacuum. It followed a royal proclamation, issued through proper constitutional processes.

When some now applaud the rejection of the application as though it were a political triumph, they are, whether intentionally or not, applauding the effective dismissal of a royal act.

That should trouble every Malaysian.

Belittling or mocking a royal decree is not merely disrespectful to an individual; it risks undermining the constitutional framework itself.

The issue before the court was not a personality contest. In substance, it was the legal effect of a royal decree that stood for scrutiny.

To reduce such a matter to a punchline is profoundly irresponsible.



- SA VIGNESWARAN, MIC president

Backfire on Ratu Bodek

YOURSAY | RM50m bribe offer revelation - 'bodek' gone wrong


Published: Dec 24, 2025 10:28 AM
Updated: 1:28 PM


YOURSAY | ‘Looks less like courage, more like storytelling timed for political damage control.’

Ex-aide lodges MACC report after flagged for Zaliha's silence on graft

Group urges MACC to probe claims Zaliha turned down RM50m bribe

Ex-aide says Zaliha rejected bribe but kept mum, KJ says possible offence


Ayam Kampung: This is a lame attempt to bootlick the boss - a textbook bodek queen at work.

If then minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa, or her ex-aide G Sivamalar, were genuinely insulted or alarmed by the alleged RM50 million bribe, they should have gone straight to the MACC.

That is the bare minimum expected of any public servant who claims to stand for integrity and accountability.

Remaining silent and allowing this information to surface more than two years later in a casual, off-hand interview is not how one earns the rakyat’s trust.

It looks less like courage and more like convenient storytelling timed for political damage control.

Put your money where your mouth is. You are a public servant. You serve the rakyat, not your political superior. The right thing was to report the matter immediately, which you did not.

So please do not claim the moral high ground now. You forfeited that right two years ago when you and your boss chose silence over duty.

Dr Suresh Kumar: Is this a Freudian slip on Sivamalar’s part, or a clumsily crafted attempt at apple-polishing that backfired? Either way, the damage is done.

Sivamalar admitted she was present and personally witnessed the alleged offer. RM50 million is not loose talk, not small change, and certainly not something to be mentioned casually years later. It is a serious sum that demands serious action.

The public has the right to know who this so-called brave hero is, especially after businessperson Albert Tei’s bribery case.

In a country plagued by unbridled corruption, selective disclosures and delayed revelations only deepen cynicism and erode trust in public institutions.

If this disclosure was meant to inspire confidence, it has achieved the opposite.

Cogito Ergo Sum: In a sloppy attempt to ampu bodek (brown nose) her boss, Sivamalar has unintentionally implicated both herself and Zaliha in a potential corruption issue. This episode speaks volumes about the calibre of our cabinet.

Both appear to see themselves as unsung heroes - paragons of integrity who deserve praise for doing what the law already requires. They are not heroes. They are public office holders who failed to act when it mattered most.

MACC must act with the same vigour and enthusiasm shown in the Tei case. There must be no double standards, no political cushioning, and no immunity simply because the narrative is inconvenient. Integrity delayed is integrity denied.

Wah Gor Your Favourite PM: This is a classic case of “The lady doth protest too much, methinks,” from William Shakespeare, Hamlet, Act III, Scene II.

Nobody accused her boss of corruption, so there was no need for this public justification. At most, she has been criticised for incompetence and a lack of gravitas in handling sensitive matters such as decisions related to the Pardons Board. This revelation does nothing to add weight to her standing.

A seasoned and genuinely upright politician would have rejected countless monetary offers quietly over the years, often involving far larger sums, without ever feeling the need to publicise them. That is simply part of the job.

By highlighting a single instance of supposed integrity, the former aide inadvertently exposes her boss as politically lightweight — someone for whom rejecting a bribe is treated as an extraordinary achievement rather than a basic expectation.

IndigoJaguar7545: For your information, attempted bribery is 100 percent prosecuted as if you committed the act.

Section 28 of MACC Act says: “Attempts, preparations, abetment and criminal conspiracies punishable as offence: Section 28. (1) Any person who (a) attempts to commit any offence under this Act; (b) does any act preparatory to or in furtherance of the commission of any offence under this Act; or (c) abets or is engaged in a criminal conspiracy to commit any offence under this Act, commits such offence and shall on conviction be liable to the punishment provided for such offence."

How do you not know this?

Anonymous: The law is clear, regardless of political allegiance. Section 25(3) of the MACC Act requires any person from whom gratification has been solicited, obtained, or even attempted to report the matter at the earliest opportunity to the commission or the police.

I am not a fan of Zaliha nor Sivamalar. But legal accuracy matters. Neither Zaliha nor Sivamalar solicited the bribe. On that point, outrage should be properly directed.

If the allegation is true, the MACC should pursue the tobacco company and its representative for attempting to bribe government officials.

That offence stands on its own and should not be obscured by political theatre, delayed virtue-signalling, or selective moral outrage.

Shahidan’s PN-BN-PKR coalition proposal just fantasy, say analysts

FMT:

Shahidan’s PN-BN-PKR coalition proposal just fantasy, say analysts

4 hours ago

Nora Mahpar

Ahmad Zaharuddin Sani Ahmad Sabri says the proposal seems more like a political experiment rather than a well-thought-out strategy

PAS MP Shahidan Kassim had proposed that PN, which holds 74 parliamentary seats, together with BN and PKR, each with around 30 seats, form a new political pact.

PETALING JAYA: Analysts have poured cold water on a proposal by PAS leader Shahidan Kassim for Perikatan Nasional, Barisan Nasional and PKR to form a coalition government, calling it unrealistic, risky and capable of dragging the country into political instability.

Ahmad Zaharuddin Sani Ahmad Sabri of Global Asia Consulting said the idea seemed more like a political experiment rather than a well-thought-out strategy.

He said this could see a repeat of the post-2018 general election period when Malaysia saw three prime ministers in five years.


“PN is trying to sell the idea of a dream coalition, but in reality, it is politically vulnerable.

“BN is still finding its footing after its ‘blue wave’ waned, while PKR is unlikely to abandon DAP,” he told FMT.

According to Zaharuddin, the proposal does not solve the current political situation. “This proposed coalition is not an exit strategy; it’s an entry point to a new era of political instability.”

Shahidan, who is Arau MP, had proposed that PN, which holds 74 parliamentary seats, together with BN and PKR, each with around 30 seats, form a new political pact.

The suggestion follows tensions between Umno and DAP after DAP publicity secretary Yeo Bee Yin posted comments deemed “rude” by Umno leaders regarding the High Court’s rejection of former prime minister Najib Razak’s bid for house arrest.

The former DAP minister described the court ruling as “another reason to celebrate this year end”, a statement that drew ire from Umno leaders.


Zaharuddin also said the proposal by Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh for BN to leave the government and become the opposition would be riskier for the coalition itself.

“BN is trying to rebuild its image after a series of defeats. Leaving the government would make BN appear opportunistic, further destabilising the country at a time when Malaysians need economic certainty,” he said.

PKR’s position

Zaharuddin also explained that it is almost impossible for PKR to leave DAP as their relationship is not merely tactical but forms the foundation of their support among urban, progressive and overseas voters.


“Dropping DAP would destroy PKR’s own credibility. That’s why the PN-BN-PKR proposal is more of a fantasy,” he added.

Mazlan Ali from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia said Shahidan’s proposal is interesting but raises a major question about the prime ministership.

“With PKR holding a small number of seats, Anwar Ibrahim is unlikely to become prime minister unless PN agrees to support him. That is highly improbable,” he said.

Mazlan warned that any major split, including a possible withdrawal by BN or DAP from the government, would only open the door to a weak and unstable administration.

With only two years left in the current term, Mazlan does not expect such withdrawals, despite the risk of instability.

He noted that the issue stems from controversial statements by a DAP politician, rather than government policy.

“I am confident that Anwar, Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and DAP secretary-general Loke Siew Fook understand the risks if this conflict persists.”

He said there were many important things on the agenda that need attention by the government before the next general election.

***

The ultimate Melayu Coalition, once PKR and Bersatu get rid of its nons, wakakaka

The Old Man will be extremely proud and most willing to assume leadership of such a Pure 'Aryan-ish' Coalition.

Penang committed to protecting religious freedom of all communities, says Kon Yeow

Penang committed to protecting religious freedom of all communities, says Kon Yeow



Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the state government continues to support non-Muslim communities through an inclusive approach, ensuring that all Penangites are able to practise their respective religions freely and without hindrance. — Picture via Facebook

Wednesday, 24 Dec 2025 10:58 AM MYT


GEORGE TOWN, Dec 24 — The Penang government remains committed to safeguarding the welfare and religious freedom of all communities, including Christians, said Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.

He said the state government continues to support non-Muslim communities through an inclusive approach, ensuring that all Penangites are able to practise their respective religions freely and without hindrance.

“In addition to protecting religious practices, the state government also provides various services and basic facilities to support religious activities,” he said in his Christmas message today.

He said the state continues to prioritise harmony among Penang’s diverse communities.


One of the main initiatives the state has implemented towards this was the establishment of the Penang Harmony Corporation (Harmonico), a state-linked agency.

Chow said Harmonico is aimed at promoting a new model of interfaith harmony while addressing the challenges of religious diversity.

He said the state-level Christmas celebrations early this month was a success.


“After 25 years, a special procession in conjunction with the Christmas celebrations was successfully held for the first time,” he said.

He said it was especially heartwarming to witness the extraordinary spirit of the participants and churches involved in the procession to continue to the end despite heavy rain.

“This indirectly reflects the strength of unity and spirit of volunteerism among the people in the state,” he said.

He hoped that this spirit would continue and the Christmas procession tradition will continue to be held in the years to come.

Chow said Christmas serves as a reminder of universal values such as love, compassion, sacrifice and hope, which transcend religious boundaries.

“As we close the chapter of 2025, this festive season offers an opportunity for reflection, renewal and renewed determination to build a more prosperous and inspiring Penang for all,” he said.

He extended Christmas greetings to those who are celebrating and wished all Penangites a restful and enjoyable year-end holiday.

“May this Christmas bring lasting peace, happiness and well-being to you and your family,” he said.

Chow Kon Yeow 曹觀友

Seiring dengan nilai kasih sayang dan keprihatinan yang dibawa oleh semangat Krismas, Kerajaan Negeri Pulau Pinang kekal komited untuk menjaga kebajikan semua komuniti. Inilah antara keajaiban...

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‘We will not hesitate to act’: Perikatan, Pakatan back stability in Perlis govt amid pressure on Menteri Besar

‘We will not hesitate to act’: Perikatan, Pakatan back stability in Perlis govt amid pressure on Menteri Besar



Perlis Menteri Besar Mohd Shukri Ramli Mohd Shukri was discharged from a hospital in Kuala Lumpur yesterday after receiving treatment for chest pains. — File picture by Shafwan Zaidon

Wednesday, 24 Dec 2025 12:18 PM MYT


KANGAR, Dec 24 — Leaders from Perikatan Nasional (PN) and Pakatan Harapan (PH) have voiced support for political stability in Perlis amid reports of internal pressure on Menteri Besar Mohd Shukri Ramli.

In a statement, Perlis Pas Youth chief and Beseri state assemblyman Haziq Asyraf Dun said all parties must play their role in safeguarding stability in the state.

“We will not hesitate to take appropriate action against any party that seeks to threaten the stability of the state government,” he said.

Haziq said voters had given a clear mandate to Perikatan Nasional to govern Perlis, adding that priority should remain on the welfare of the people and the state’s development rather than the interests of certain individuals or factions.


Separately, Perikatan Nasional Perlis chairman Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim yesterday said the coalition was not officially informed of claims that several state assemblymen had withdrawn support for Shukri.

According to a report in The Star, Shahidan said the coalition had only learned of the matter through media reports.

“This is not a crisis, merely a difference of opinion,” he reportedly said, adding that the issue could be resolved “within the family” without affecting the stability of the state administration.


Shahidan said any decision would be made at party level before being conveyed to the Raja of Perlis, noting that the state leadership would provide the necessary information and await instructions from party headquarters.

Mohd Shukri was discharged from a hospital in Kuala Lumpur yesterday after receiving treatment for chest pains.

Pakatan Harapan Perlis also expressed support for the existing state government to continue until the end of its term, citing a mandate obtained through a legitimate democratic process.

Angkatan Muda Harapan Perlis chief Dr Ahmad Fadhzil Mohamad said government stability was crucial for a small state like Perlis to ensure smooth administration, protect public funds and uphold the Royal Institution.

The statements come amid earlier reports that statutory declarations indicating a loss of confidence among some Pas and Bersatu assemblymen had been submitted to the Raja of Perlis, raising questions over the stability of the state administration.

Israeli forces demolish shops in raids near occupied East Jerusalem

al Jazeera:

Israeli forces demolish shops in raids near occupied East Jerusalem

Commercial premises among buildings facing demolition as military incursions intensify near Qalandiya and Kafr Aqab

Israeli forces gather as excavators demolish a Palestinian building near the Silwan neighbourhood of occupied East Jerusalem on December 22, 2025 [AFP]

By Al Jazeera Staff
Published On 23 Dec 2025


Israeli forces have begun demolishing shops in the vicinity of the Qalandiya refugee camp, north of occupied East Jerusalem, as part of a wider military incursion across several Palestinian neighbourhoods, witnesses and medical officials say.

The raids, which began early on Tuesday, have extended into the nearby town of Kafr Aqab, where Israeli troops deployed in large numbers, carried out house searches and forcibly evicted residents from their homes, according to local media reports.

The Palestine Red Crescent Society said its medical teams treated at least three people injured during the raids in Qalandiya and Kafr Aqab. The injuries included a bullet wound to the thigh, wounds caused by shrapnel from live ammunition, and injuries resulting from physical assault.

The Jerusalem governorate reported that at least three Palestinians were injured by Israeli forces’ gunfire, in addition to dozens of cases of suffocation caused by the firing of tear gas and stun grenades, the Palestinian Wafa news agency reported.

Several Palestinians were detained during the large-scale incursion that was also accompanied by the deployment of military vehicles and bulldozers.

Among those arrested are Anan Mohammed Taha and his father, Mohammed Taha, residents of the Qalandiya refugee camp, Wafa said.

‘Intimidation’ and ‘anxiety’

Residents said Israeli forces ordered several families to evacuate their homes, with at least three houses converted into temporary military outposts in Kafr Aqab. Homeowners were reportedly told the operation would continue until at least Wednesday morning.


Israeli forces also stormed the youth club inside the Qalandiya refugee camp and turned the facility into a military base, according to Al Jazeera Arabic’s correspondent.

Journalists covering the operation were also targeted, including Al Jazeera Arabic reporters, with Israeli forces firing stun grenades and tear gas canisters in their direction during the raid in Kafr Aqab.



Israel demolishes residential multi-storey building in occupied East Jerusalem



Israeli forces demolish shops in raids near occupied East Jerusalem


According to the Jerusalem governorate authorities, stun grenades were also fired directly towards students in the area as they were returning home from school, while private surveillance cameras were seized.

Al Jazeera’s Nida Ibrahim, reporting from Kafr Aqab, said Israeli forces are continuing to “intimidate” Palestinians.

“They have raided Palestinian stores, Palestinian shops, and they’ve destroyed some of the plaques, some of the advertisement billboards that were here”, in an attempt to further cripple the Palestinian economy, Ibrahim said.

“This is part of the anxiety that Palestinians live through day in and day out as these Israeli raids continue on a daily basis,” she added.

Israeli incursions across the West Bank average “60 raids per day”, Ibrahim said.

In addition to the demolitions, Israeli forces confiscated goods from commercial shops in the Qalandiya refugee camp, Kafr Aqab and parts of northern Jerusalem, citing alleged unpaid municipal taxes.

Most Palestinians living in these areas hold Jerusalem residency identification cards. Residents say they are subject to high municipal taxes while receiving few basic services.

Separately, confrontations were also reported in the town of Beit Furik, east of Nablus in the occupied West Bank, after Israeli forces stormed the area.

***

Frigging shailok robbers, gangsters and thieves

No orchestrated move to unseat Perlis MB, says Shahidan

FMT:

No orchestrated move to unseat Perlis MB, says Shahidan

Liam Lisu

Perlis PN chief says statutory declarations signed by eight assemblymen were done independently and not due to orders from central leaders

Perlis PN chief Shahidan Kassim played down the apparent loss of confidence in the menteri besar to mere differences of opinion rather than a major crisis. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: Perlis Perikatan Nasional chairman Shahidan Kassim has denied claims there was an orchestrated move to unseat Shukri Ramli as Perlis menteri besar, particularly involving eight PN assemblymen.

Shahidan said the statutory declarations signed by the eight were done independently and were not the result of any directive by central leaders.

“What is happening now is more towards speculation. We will attend a (PN) central leadership meeting soon and decide on the next course of action,” he said, according to Utusan Malaysia.


The Arau MP added that decisions on matters like the menteri besar’s post should be determined by the coalition’s central leadership before being presented to the Raja of Perlis.

Shahidan also played down the apparent loss of confidence in Shukri to mere differences of opinion rather than a major crisis.
The priority now is to find a solution to the issue, he added.


“We won the state (in 2022) because the people saw us as united. I do not want this issue to be used by any party to weaken PN.

“I therefore urge all parties to remain calm, refrain from making excessive statements, and give the central leadership room to reach a final decision,” he said.

Yesterday, FMT quoted sources as saying that eight PN assemblymen had submitted statutory declarations to the Raja of Perlis declaring that they no longer back Shukri.

According to the sources, five of them are from Bersatu – Abu Bakar Hamzah (Kuala Perlis), Izizam Ibrahim (Titi Tinggi), Megat Hashirat Hassan (Pauh), Wan Zikri Afthar Ishak (Tambun Tulang) and Marzita Mansor (Sena).


The other three are from PAS – Saad Seman (Chuping), Fakhrul Anwar Ismail (Bintong) and Ridzuan Hashim (Guar Sanji).

The 15-member Perlis assembly comprises nine PAS assemblymen, including Shukri, five from Bersatu and one from PKR.

Shukri was reportedly receiving treatment in a hospital in Kuala Lumpur after experiencing chest pains upon returning from an overseas visit.

He was discharged this afternoon.

***

Were you born yesterday?

China implies US hypocrisy over nuclear disarmament

China implies US hypocrisy over nuclear disarmament



Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said China has called on the United States to cut its nuclear arsenal and meet its disarmament responsibilities after a Pentagon draft report alleged China had deployed over 100 ICBMs near Mongolia. — Reuters pic

Tuesday, 23 Dec 2025 9:00 PM MYT


BEIJING, Dec 23 — China today urged the US to fulfil its nuclear disarmament responsibilities after a draft Pentagon report said China was likely to have loaded more than 100 intercontinental ballistic missiles in sites near the Mongolian border and showed no desire for arms control talks.

“As a super nuclear power with the largest nuclear arsenal, the most urgent task for the US is to earnestly fulfil the special and priority responsibility for nuclear disarmament,” Lin Jian, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, said at a regular press conference in Beijing.

The US should “substantially reduce its nuclear arsenal to create conditions for other nuclear-weapon states to join the nuclear disarmament process,” Lin added.

In a draft report seen by Reuters, the Pentagon said China had probably installed more than 100 solid-fuelled DF-31 ICBMs in the three silo fields close to Mongolia.


The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, a Chicago-based non-profit, has said China is expanding and modernising its weapons stockpile faster than any other nuclear-armed power.


“We continue to see no appetite from Beijing for pursuing such measures or more comprehensive arms control discussions,” the report said.

US President Donald Trump signalled last month that he might be working on a plan to denuclearise with China and Russia.


The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said he was not aware of the Pentagon report, but said “similar hypes” had been seen from the US before.

“It aims to find excuses for accelerating its own nuclear forces’ modernisation and actions disrupting global strategic stability,” Lin added.

Beijing had embarked on a rapid and sustained increase in the size and capability of its nuclear forces, US analysts said.

China’s nuclear warhead stockpile was still in the low 600s in 2024, which reflected “a slower rate of production when compared to previous years,” according to the Pentagon report.

But China was on track to have more than 1,000 warheads by 2030, it added.

The US is estimated to hold around 5,177 nuclear warheads.

“China firmly adheres to a no-first-use nuclear weapons policy and upholds a nuclear strategy of self-defence,” Lin said.

China “does not engage in nuclear arms races with any country.” — Reuters

Victims exposed, but not the powerful: Survivors slam redacted Epstein files as dangerous and unjust

Victims exposed, but not the powerful: Survivors slam redacted Epstein files as dangerous and unjust



This photo provided by the US Justice Department on December 19, 2025 shows an undated picture of former US president Bill Clinton in a jacuzzi at an undisclosed location as the Justice Department began releasing the long-awaited records from the investigation into the politically explosive case of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. — AFP pic

Tuesday, 23 Dec 2025 9:00 PM MYT


WASHINGTON, Dec 23 — Victims of disgraced US financier Jeffrey Epstein joined a chorus of criticism yesterday over the Trump administration’s slow release and heavy redaction of records from the investigation into his alleged sex crimes.

President Donald Trump said meanwhile, in his first comments since the release of the files, that people who “innocently met” Epstein in the past risked having their reputations ruined.


The Epstein Files Transparency Act (EFTA) passed by Congress and signed into law by Trump mandated the complete release of the Epstein files by Friday of last week.

But the Trump Justice Department has released only one batch of documents so far, with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche blaming the delay on the need to redact the identities of Epstein’s more than 1,000 victims.


In a statement, a group of Epstein victims complained that only a “fraction” of the files have been released and were “riddled with abnormal and extreme redactions with no explanation.”


“At the same time, numerous victim identities were left unredacted, causing real and immediate harm,” they added.

EFTA co-sponsors Ro Khanna, a Democrat, and Thomas Massie, a Republican, threatened over the weekend to bring contempt of Congress charges against Attorney General Pam Bondi for failing to comply with the law.


And Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer introduced a resolution yesterday calling for legal action against the administration for failing to release the complete Epstein files.

“Instead of transparency, the Trump administration released a tiny fraction of the files and blacked out massive portions of what little they provided. This is a blatant cover-up. Pam Bondi and Todd Blanche are shielding Donald Trump from accountability, and the Senate has a duty to act,” Schumer said in a statement.

‘We need no such protection’

Blanche denied on Sunday that the Justice Department was redacting the files to protect the president, a formerly close friend of Epstein, a convicted sex offender with connections to the rich and powerful.

Trump initially tried to block the disclosure of the files linked to Epstein, who died in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges in what was ruled a suicide.

The president, who cut ties with Epstein years before his arrest and faces no accusations of wrongdoing, finally bowed to mounting pressure from Congress and signed the law compelling publication of the files.

Trump yesterday dismissed the furore over Epstein as a distraction from his party’s achievements.

“This whole thing with Epstein is a way of trying to deflect from the tremendous success that the Republican Party has,” he told reporters at his Mar-a-Lago home.

Former Democratic president Bill Clinton featured prominently in the first batch of photos from the Epstein files released by the Justice Department and Trump was asked for his reaction.

“I like Bill Clinton. I hate to see photos come out of him. There’s photos of me too. Everybody was friendly with this guy (Epstein),” Trump said.

“You probably have pictures being exposed of other people that innocently met Jeffrey Epstein years ago, many years ago, and they’re highly respected bankers and lawyers and others. But they’re in a picture with him because he was at a party and you ruin a reputation of somebody,” he added.

Clinton urged the Justice Department in a statement yesterday to release any materials in the files related to him, saying he had nothing to hide.

“Someone or something is being protected. We do not know whom, what or why. But we do know this: We need no such protection,” Clinton said.

Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s former girlfriend, remains the only person convicted in connection with his crimes and is serving a 20-year sentence for recruiting underage girls for the disgraced financier. — AFP

***

In Malaysia we need NO redaction of videoclips of minister engaged in gay sex - only the opinion of the PM or IGP that the identification of sex-players being not possible would suffice.

‘We guarantee it’s safe’: Thailand rejects Cambodia’s call for neutral venue as border talks stall

‘We guarantee it’s safe’: Thailand rejects Cambodia’s call for neutral venue as border talks stall



Thailand’s foreign minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow holds a press conference following a special Asean foreign ministers’ meeting on the Thai-Cambodian border conflict, in Kuala Lumpur on December 22, 2025. — AFP pic

Tuesday, 23 Dec 2025 6:33 PM MYT


BANGKOK, Dec 23 — Thailand today rejected a request by Cambodia to hold bilateral talks in a neutral country, leaving a planned meeting to negotiate an end to deadly border clashes in doubt.

The nations’ long-standing border conflict reignited this month, shattering an earlier truce, killing more than 40 people and displacing over 900,000 on both sides, officials said.

The clashing neighbours yesterday agreed to negotiate truce terms this week, but Cambodia asked Thailand to hold the talks in a neutral venue, Malaysia’s capital.

Thailand’s defence ministry, however, said today that the bilateral border committee meeting would go ahead in Thailand’s Chanthaburi province from tomorrow as planned.


“We guarantee Chanthaburi is safe. This province is the original plan for hosting the GBC (General Border Committee) even before the fighting started,” Thai defence ministry spokesperson Surasant Kongsiri told reporters.


Surasant said officials from the border committee would meet from tomorrow to Saturday, adding that whether the meeting happened or not depended on Cambodia.

A Cambodian government spokesman told AFP he had no updated information on the meeting venue.


The conflict stems from a territorial dispute over the colonial-era demarcation of their 800-kilometre (500-mile) border and a smattering of ancient temple ruins situated on the frontier.

Each side has blamed the other for instigating the fresh fighting since December 7 and traded accusations of attacks on civilians, after five days of clashes in July killed dozens.

The US, China and Malaysia brokered a truce to end that round of fighting, but the ceasefire was short-lived.

Trump weighs in

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow yesterday announced the parley with Cambodia after a crisis meeting in Kuala Lumpur with his counterparts from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), of which Cambodia is also a member.

But in a letter to his Thai counterpart Nattaphon Narkphanit, Cambodian Defence Minister Tea Seiha requested the meeting be held in Kuala Lumpur for security reasons.

“Due to the ongoing fighting along the border, this meeting should be held in a safe and neutral venue,” Tea Seiha wrote in the letter, which AFP obtained today.

Thailand’s defence minister told journalists the last border committee meeting was held in Cambodia’s Koh Kong province, so it was Thailand’s turn to host, adding that there was nothing to fear as Thais could separate military and diplomatic matters.

But Nattaphon also said Thai forces would keep fighting as long as Cambodia did, as combat that has stretched along nearly the entirety of the border so far has only calmed in parts of two provinces.

The Cambodian defence ministry said Thai forces shelled the Cambodian border city of Poipet and bombed parts of the border province of Preah Vihear today.

In October, US President Donald Trump backed a follow-on joint declaration between Thailand and Cambodia, touting new trade deals after they agreed in Kuala Lumpur to prolong their truce.

But Thailand suspended the agreement the following month.

Trump yesterday referred again to the conflict between Cambodia and Thailand as one of the eight wars he had “solved” around the world.

“Thailand is starting to shape up. You know, they started with Cambodia, they started up again,” he told journalists in Florida.

“But I think… we have that in pretty good shape, to have that stopped.” — AFP

Customs official lodges police, EAIC reports over 'punitive transfers'

Customs official lodges police, EAIC reports over 'punitive transfers'

B Nantha Kumar
Published: Dec 23, 2025 8:00 PM
Updated: Dec 24, 2025 12:18 AM



A senior official from the Customs Department has lodged reports with the police and the Enforcement Agency Integrity Commission (EAIC) claiming he was subjected to “punitive transfers” twice, in less than two months.

This comes after it was claimed that the official had leaked documents linking the department's top leadership to allegations of abuse of power.

According to information obtained by Malaysiakini, the official lodged a police report on Dec 18 at the Satok police station in Kuching.

In the report, sighted by Malaysiakini, the official claimed he was subjected to “punitive transfers” without reasonable justification, adding he was also denied a fair internal probe.

The official said he was first issued an immediate transfer order from the Selangor Customs Department to its Sarawak chapter on Oct 23 - a move he described as “unusual” for an officer of his rank.

Orders from Putrajaya?

Subsequently, on Dec 17, the official received an internal transfer order, where he was moved from the Compliance Division to the Internal Tax Division, which he alleged was done without official explanation.

The official stated that he was informed by a top Sarawak Customs Department officer that the order came directly from a high-ranking customs official based in Putrajaya.

The official alleged he was being targeted after he was suspected of disseminating viral emails or poison pen letters linking a senior customs official with a politician from Peninsular Malaysia.

When contacted, Kuching district police chief Alexan Naga Chabu confirmed receiving the report.

An official EAIC notice, sighted by Malaysiakini, states that the official’s report has been registered as a complaint regarding dissatisfaction with the department’s management.

It is also understood that the commission is investigating the case for alleged misconduct and abuse of power by enforcement officers.

Malaysiakini has contacted EAIC for comments.

***

Uncle military story:

Once the Armed Forces had a contractor (named, say, 'ABC') supplying food rations to its numerous units. Daily an officer would check the 'quality' and quantity of said ration. If said officer complained or submitted an adverse report on the ration he might find himself transferred or posted immediately - the posting or transfer was called an 'ABC' posting, such was the power of that contractor.