Saturday, July 18, 2026

Vote PH in GE16 or Zahid will be PM, says Pua

Vote PH in GE16 or Zahid will be PM, says Pua

Yesterday
Kirthana Arumugam

The ex-Damansara MP says voting for 'spoiler' parties or not voting at all in the upcoming general election will give BN the edge

DAP’s Tony Pua said PH remains the best option to govern the country, citing the nation’s economic performance and rising ringgit under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: DAP’s Tony Pua has urged voters in Petaling Jaya to continue supporting Pakatan Harapan in the next general election (GE16), claiming that Barisan Nasional chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi would become the prime minister otherwise.

At a DAP fundraising dinner here tonight, the former Damansara MP said voting for “spoiler” parties or not even voting at all in GE16 would give BN the edge.

His “spoiler party” label is believed to be in reference to Rafizi Ramli’s Parti Bersama Malaysia, which split enough of PH’s votes to cause the coalition’s defeat in two seats during the Johor state election last weekend.

“If you choose not to vote or to vote for a spoiler party, you will allow this government (to lose), so that the party that will win in GE16 will be none other than BN, and your next prime minister will be Zahid.

“Do you want Zahid Hamidi to be the next prime minister of Malaysia?” he said.

Pua, who chairs DAP’s disciplinary board, acknowledged that there were reforms PH had promised to implement when in power but has yet to deliver, describing it as “incomplete” work.

He nonetheless asserted that PH remains the best option to govern the country, citing the nation’s economic performance and rising ringgit under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

Citing Malaysia’s unexpected 5.8% GDP growth in the second quarter of the year despite the Iran war, Pua said this was the achievement of a competent and corrupt-free government.

“These are achievements by a government that is doing the right things with taxpayers’ money to improve the economy and the livelihoods of the people,” he said.

He said it was, therefore, important that voters come out and continue backing PH in GE16, to maintain this momentum of growth and reforms.

Similarly, he said, voters must continue criticising, pressuring and even “scolding” PH to ensure the coalition delivers on the reforms it had pledged to implement.

“Vote for the governing party that has delivered many of the promises it made in the previous election.

“For the promises they have not delivered, continue to scold them, continue to criticise them, continue to pressure them, so that they deliver the remaining promises, but also continue to support them because they are the best-positioned party (to deliver reforms).

“Ensure that we are in power so that we can deliver reforms for you, your children, and your grandchildren, so that in 10 to 20 years’ time, Malaysia will be the proud home that every Malaysian abroad will want to come back to,” he said.

Ties between PH and BN started to sour after BN decided to go solo in the July 11 Johor state election. PH had wanted both coalitions to contest as allies, similar to the pact they had in the six 2023 state elections.

The relationship appears to have deteriorated further with BN’s decision to form an alliance with Perikatan Nasional in the Aug 1 Negeri Sembilan state election.

Amirudin accuses parties of stoking racial tension to seize Selangor

Amirudin accuses parties of stoking racial tension to seize Selangor

11 hours ago
Kirthana Arumugam

The menteri besar says ‘two or three parties’ are creating fear and unease among the communities in the state

Selangor menteri besar and state Pakatan Harapan chairman Amirudin Shari at a PH ceramah in Pasir Gudang, Johor, on July 10. (Facebook pic)

PETALING JAYA: Selangor menteri besar Amirudin Shari has accused “two or three parties” of fuelling insecurity in an attempt to wrest control of the state and eventually the federal government.

Without naming the parties involved, the Selangor Pakatan Harapan chairman said they were engaging in political manoeuvring by creating fear and unease among the different communities.

“They are sowing insecurity within our communities – insecurity among the Malays, Chinese and Indians,” he said at a DAP fundraising dinner here tonight.

The two-term Selangor menteri besar described the tactic as a dangerous political ploy that could undermine Selangor’s progress.

He said Selangor’s development was the result of reforms implemented over more than 15 years, and continued political stability was crucial to sustaining the state’s economic growth.

The PKR vice-president urged Malaysians to reject what he described as extreme racial and religious politics, saying the country’s peace and stability must be protected.

“This is the time for Malaysians to rise. We must reject the extreme politics of race and religion being practised by certain parties,” he said.

PH retained control of Selangor in the 2023 state election after winning 32 of the 56 state assembly seats, but lost its two-thirds majority for the first time in 15 years.

The next Selangor election must be held by November 2028 unless the state assembly is dissolved earlier.

Negeri Sembilan at a crossroads: Who can end the uncertainty as alliances shift?

Negeri Sembilan at a crossroads: Who can end the uncertainty as alliances shift?

Negeri Sembilan’s 36 constituencies form the battleground for an election shaped by fractures alliances and a search for political stability. — Picture by Sayuti Zainudin

First Published: Saturday, 18 Jul 2026 7:00 AM MYT

SEREMBAN, July 18 — After months of political uncertainty, Negeri Sembilan heads into its state election in a contest that will test whether a stable government can be restored.

The race will formally begin today, with candidates filing their nomination papers and kicking off two weeks of campaigning in an election that looks markedly different from the last state polls.

Unlike the 2023 state election, when Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Barisan Nasional (BN) cooperated under the federal unity government, the two coalitions are going into this election separately.

At the same time, an apparent understanding between BN and Perikatan Nasional (PN) to avoid direct clashes, coupled with Bersatu’s decision to stand against its PN partners in eight seats, has added another layer of intrigue to the campaign.

A new electoral equation

PH is contesting all 36 seats as it seeks to retain the state government under Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.

BN announced candidates for 25 constituencies, while PN subsequently named candidates for the remaining 11 seats — Klawang, Serting, Lobak, Sikamat, Ampangan, Bukit Kepayang, Mambau, Paroi, Lukut, Bagan Pinang and Gemas.

The arrangement confirms that BN and PN will avoid contesting against each other in the state election.

The next government formed after the election will need at least 19 seats to command Negeri Sembilan’s 36-seat state assembly. — Picture by Yusof Isa

Before the state assembly was dissolved, Serting, Paroi and Bagan Pinang were held by PAS, while Gemas was represented by Bersatu.

The remaining constituencies — Klawang, Lobak, Sikamat, Ampangan, Bukit Kepayang, Mambau and Lukut — were held by PH.

The arrangement has also highlighted differences within PN, with Bersatu excluded from the coalition’s seat negotiations with BN.

Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, meanwhile, has said the party will contest under its own symbol.

Bersatu has also indicated that it will not withdraw from constituencies merely because it could face candidates from PAS or other PN parties, raising the prospect of multi-cornered contests in some seats.

Familiar faces, fresh battlegrounds

The election features several high-profile candidates and notable constituency changes.

Aminuddin, who represented Sikamat for four consecutive terms after first winning the seat in 2008, will instead contest the BN-held stronghold of Linggi, making it one of the races to watch.

DAP secretary-general and Transport Minister Anthony Loke will defend Chennah, while Negeri Sembilan Umno chairman Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias seeks another term in Pertang.

Attention is also expected to focus on constituencies such as Linggi, Sikamat, Rantau, Nilai, Seremban Jaya, Gemas and Paroi, where local dynamics, candidate profiles and evolving political alignments could prove decisive.

Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun is leaving his four-term Sikamat seat to contest the BN stronghold of Linggi. — Picture by Raymond Manuel

A multi-faceted state

Home to an estimated 1.24 million people, Negeri Sembilan has experienced significant economic expansion around the Seremban-Nilai corridor, supported by its proximity to Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Selangor.

The expanding urban belt has attracted families and commuters seeking relatively affordable housing, increasing demand for transport links, infrastructure and public services.

Elsewhere, Port Dickson’s coastal communities depend significantly on tourism, while rural constituencies in Kuala Pilah, Jelebu, Jempol and Tampin face concerns involving agriculture, road connectivity, healthcare access and employment opportunities.

Issues such as the cost of living, housing affordability, wages, infrastructure, public transport and economic opportunities are expected to feature prominently during the campaign.

Beyond bread-and-butter issues

The election follows one of the most unusual periods in the state’s recent political history.

Negeri Sembilan’s unique Adat Perpatih system, under which the Yang di-Pertuan Besar is elected by the state’s four Undang, became the focus of national attention following a dispute over the position of the state ruler.

The crisis escalated when a group of traditional chieftains attempted to replace Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, although the federal and state governments continued to recognise him as the legitimate Yang di-Pertuan Besar.

Political uncertainty deepened after BN’s 14 assemblymen withdrew their support for Aminuddin, before the state assembly was dissolved effective June 5.

Although the parties are expected to focus heavily on everyday concerns during the campaign, the royal dispute remains an important part of the election’s political backdrop.

Not just another state election

For PH, the election is about defending the state government under Aminuddin.

For BN, it is an opportunity to regain a state it governed for decades before 2018 and build on its recent electoral victory in Johor.

For PAS and the other PN parties, the election will test whether their electoral understanding with BN can translate into gains beyond their existing foothold.

Bersatu’s next move, meanwhile, could determine whether some constituencies see straight fights or fragmented multi-cornered contests.

Voters will cast their ballots on August 1 to decide who governs Negeri Sembilan for a term of up to five years and whether the election can restore political stability and refocus attention on issues affecting residents, from employment and development to the cost of living.

Bersatu clashes with PAS, Parti Wawasan in eight Negeri Sembilan seats

Bersatu clashes with PAS, Parti Wawasan in eight Negeri Sembilan seats

Bersatu president and founder Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin with party leaders and supporters at the launch of the Negeri Sembilan Bersatu election machinery in Nilai on July 17, 2026. — Bernama pic

First Published: Friday, 17 Jul 2026 6:55 PM MYT
Last Modified: Friday, 17 Jul 2026 8:38 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, July 17 — Bersatu will reportedly field 24 candidates under its own logo in the Negeri Sembilan election, putting it in clashes for eight seats with two other parties from its Perikatan Nasional (PN).

Bernama reported that Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced the candidate line-up today, a day before nominations.

The party will face PAS in Serting, Ampangan, Paroi and Bagan Pinang.

It will also contest against Parti Wawasan Negara (Wawasan) in Klawang, Sikamat, Mambau and Gemas.

Bersatu information chief Datuk Tun Faisal Ismail Aziz will contest in Sikamat, while Supreme Leadership Council member Sri Sanjeevan Ramakrishnan has been named for Jeram Padang.

Labu incumbent Mohamad Hanifah Abu Baker will defend his seat, while former Malaysian Paralympic Council president Datuk Seri Megat D. Shahriman Zaharidin will contest in Seri Menanti. Other candidates include Datuk V. Saravana Kumar in Nilai, Tang Jay Son in Rahang, Mahendran Ramasamy in Seremban Jaya and Datuk Zamri Md Said in Linggi.

Polling will take place on August 1, with nomination day set for July 18.

Full list of candidates announced by Bersatu:N02 Pertang — Mohd Faizal Fadli Mohd Idrus
N03 Sungai Lui — Nazrul Hisham Abdul Mansor
N04 Klawang — Muhammad Adib Musa
N05 Serting — Muhammad Noraffendy Mohd Salleh @ Affendy Salleh
N06 Palong — Rebin Birham
N07 Jeram Padang — Sri Sanjeevan Ramakrishnan
N09 Lenggeng — Zool Amali Hussin
N10 Nilai — Datuk V. Saravana Kumar
N12 Temiang — Fazly Hamid
N13 Sikamat — Datuk Tun Faisal Ismail Aziz
N14 Ampangan — Noor Azah Harun
N15 Juasseh — Mohd Zuhaimi Md Yusof
N16 Seri Menanti — Datuk Seri Megat D. Shahriman Zaharidin
N17 Senaling — Mohd Izaffi Istear Khan
N20 Labu — Mohamad Hanifah Abu Baker
N22 Rahang — Tang Jay Son
N23 Mambau — Sarawanan Nagayah (Urimai)
N24 Seremban Jaya — Mahendran Ramasamy (Urimai)
N25 Paroi — Mohd Nazree Mohd Yunos
N28 Kota — Akmal Noradzmi Abd Rahim
N31 Bagan Pinang — Sheikh Junaidy
N32 Linggi — Datuk Zamri Md Said
N33 Sri Tanjung — Leevineshwaraan Murugan
N34 Gemas — Zolazrai Zolkapli

Negeri Sembilan faces prospect of greater influence under Hadi rather than immediate PAS takeover — Phar Kim Beng

Negeri Sembilan faces prospect of greater influence under Hadi rather than immediate PAS takeover — Phar Kim Beng

First Published: Friday, 17 Jul 2026 11:42 AM MYT

JULY 17 — Negeri Sembilan is emerging as one of the most consequential political battlegrounds in Malaysia. The coming state election is no longer merely about which coalition forms the next state government.

It is increasingly becoming a referendum on whether PAS under the leadership of Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang can expand its political influence beyond its traditional strongholds through strategic cooperation with Umno and Barisan Nasional.

Recent statements by Hadi Awang leave little doubt about PAS’s ambitions. He has openly declared that PAS is prepared to accept an Umno menteri besar should cooperation materialise, while negotiations over seat allocations continue.

More significantly, he framed the contest as one in which Malay-Muslim political leadership should shape the future government of Negeri Sembilan.

Yet this should not be mistaken for an imminent PAS takeover of the state.

The author argues that the Negeri Sembilan election will test whether PAS can expand its national influence through strategic alliances, with implications reaching far beyond the state’s borders. — Picture by Sayuti Zainudin

The more important question is thanks Negeri Sembilan will become the next platform from which Hadi Awang expands PAS’s national influence. Electoral success need not be measured solely by the number of seats PAS itself wins.

If PAS succeeds in positioning itself as an indispensable strategic partner in defeating Pakatan Harapan in key constituencies, it would emerge with greater bargaining power, both within opposition politics and in future negotiations with Umno.

This explains why Negeri Sembilan carries significance well beyond its 36 state seats.

The election may determine whether PAS’s strategy of coalition-building after Johor can be replicated elsewhere, including in future contests such as Melaka.

For Pakatan Harapan, the challenge is therefore larger than defending an existing administration.

It must demonstrate that moderation, multi-ethnic cooperation and effective governance remain electorally competitive against increasingly coordinated opposition strategies centred on identity politics.

At the same time, Barisan Nasional faces its own strategic dilemma.

While Hadi Awang has spoken positively about cooperation, Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has publicly denied that any formal agreement has been concluded, emphasising that discussions remain exploratory rather than final.

This divergence illustrates the fluid nature of Malaysian coalition politics. Electoral alliances today are increasingly pragmatic rather than ideological, shaped by constituency-level calculations instead of long-term political commitments.

Negeri Sembilan has historically rewarded political moderation and stability. Its electorate is ethnically diverse, economically integrated and generally less receptive to ideological polarisation than several northern states. Nevertheless, no political landscape remains static.

Rising living costs, voter fatigue and dissatisfaction with the pace of reforms can create openings for opposition forces capable of presenting themselves as disciplined and united.

Consequently, the election should not be interpreted as a binary choice between Pakatan Harapan and PAS alone. Rather, it is about determining whether Hadi Awang’s political strategy gains greater legitimacy and momentum within Peninsular Malaysia.

Should that occur, PAS’s influence over national political negotiations would expand considerably, regardless of whether it governs Negeri Sembilan directly. Such an outcome would reshape coalition calculations well beyond this election.

The voters of Negeri Sembilan therefore carry responsibilities extending beyond their state borders.

Their decision will influence not only the composition of the next state government but also the trajectory of Malaysian politics over the coming years.

The state has often been regarded as a model of constitutional moderation and political balance. Whether it continues to play that role now rests with its electorate.

The issue before them is not whether PAS immediately governs Negeri Sembilan, but whether Hadi Awang’s vision acquires greater national momentum through the state’s electoral verdict.

* Phar Kim Beng is a professor of Asean Studies and director, Institute of Internationalisation and Asean Studies, International Islamic University of Malays

Friday, July 17, 2026

Are We Morally Corrupt, Polarised and Poor? Who?

Malaysia's #1 Content Aggregator

Are We Morally Corrupt, Polarised and Poor? Who?

17 Jul 2026 • 8:00 AM MYT

M. Krishnamoorthy
A media coach, associate professor and an undercover journalist

WHAT HAS UMNO ACHIEVED? Source Din Merican Blog

By M.Krishnamoorthy

A former Associate Professor, author, media coach, and journalist

"Malays today are even more morally corrupt, deeply polarised, and economically disadvantaged than ever before. Those are not my observations. I am merely summarising what Dr Mahathir, a man who led the country and UMNO for over two decades, said," Dr Bakri Musa noted in a blog.

The article's author, Dr Bakri Musa, is a private-practice surgeon in Silicon Valley, California. His poster went viral on WhatsApp last week during the Johor State elections. The poster on a brownish background (above) was titled: “What has Umno Achieved.”

The poster in five boxes as displayed above in this article noted: "Our educational and economic achievements are nothing to be proud of; they are an embarrassment. Yet UMNO Supreme Council members parade their 'doctorates' from degree mills as genuine intellectual achievements. The sorry part is that their colleagues believe them!"

Another box in the picture stated: “After over half a century in power, what has UMNO, a party that claims to champion Malays, achieved? Take any social indicator -- rate of incarceration, drug abuse, families headed by single mothers, and our community is overrepresented."

A box emphasised corruption and cronyism. "Spouses and families of ministers brag that their luxurious condominiums are the fruits of their entrepreneurial flair, where others see those as reflecting the corruption and cronyism of the system."

All these quotes were from Dr Bakri Musa’s original article, "Longing For Enlightened Leaders", published on 19th November, 2012.

The fourth box added: "...today's UMNO government is crippled with corruption and incompetence while also being the crude wielder of power," from — "Myth of 'UMNO is Malay; Malay, UMNO' Forever Shattered!" Jan. 15, 2013

In another Blog article, The Curse of the Obsession With Single-Issue, Dr Bakri Musa said: “We Malays are obsessed – and cursed – with the single-issue politics of bangsa, agama dan negara (race, religion and nation). We have paid, and continue to pay, a severe price for this. Our fixation with those three issues detracts us from pursuing other legitimate endeavours, in particular, our social, economic and educational development. Perversely and far more consequential, our collective addiction to bangsa, agama dan negara only polarises us.”

Malaysian-born Dr Bakri Musa writes frequently on issues affecting his native land. His essays have appeared in the Far Eastern Economic Review, Asiaweek, International Herald Tribune, Education Quarterly, Singapore's Straits Times, and The New Straits Times.

Freelance Writer M. Krishnamoorthy (https://helloimkrishna.com/) is a media coach, former Associate Professor, and undercover journalist. He has freelanced with Bernama, NST, The Star, and Malaysiakini. He also freelances as a fixer/coordinator for CNN, BBC, German, and Australian Television networks, and the New York Times. As an undercover journalist, he has highlighted society's concerns.

'We are the punching bag and the bogeyman' - says Loke as PH eyes 20-seat victory

Malaysia's #1 Content Aggregator

'We are the punching bag and the bogeyman' - says Loke as PH eyes 20-seat victory

17 Jul 2026 • 10:30 AM MYT

The Vibes
Featuring breaking news & latest stories from every side.

PAKATAN Harapan (PH) will place its governance record and future plans at the heart of its Negeri Sembilan election campaign as it aims to secure a stronger mandate by winning 20 of the state’s 36 seats.

DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke described the target as PH’s “best-case scenario”, saying the coalition would need 20 seats to secure a simple majority and retain control of the state government.

Speaking in an interview with Singapore-based media organisation CNA, Loke said PH would avoid divisive political rhetoric and instead focus on delivering a message of hope and continuity to voters.

“I want to run … a campaign of hope that things will be better,” he said.

The August 1 state election was triggered following the dissolution of the Negeri Sembilan Legislative Assembly after a political crisis involving 14 UMNO assemblymen who briefly withdrew their support for Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun’s administration before reversing their decision.

Loke, who has represented the Chennah state constituency since 2013, acknowledged that PH would face intense competition, particularly from BN and its component party MCA.

“I expect very stiff competition,” he said.

“My seat is very mixed, so I need to garner the support from both the Chinese as well as our Muslim voters,” he added.

The DAP leader said PH would not be distracted by attacks from political rivals, choosing instead to highlight its achievements in government, future policies and commitments to the people of Negeri Sembilan.

“We will be looking to run a positive campaign, try and talk about what we should do, what we can do, what we have achieved and what we can do for the people,” he said.

Loke said he would personally oversee PH’s campaign messaging and overall narrative throughout the election period.

“I will personally oversee the campaign and narrative,” he said.

Addressing criticism against DAP, Loke acknowledged that opponents were likely to continue portraying the party as a threat to Malay-Muslim interests and the institution of the Malay rulers.

However, he argued that such attacks were primarily intended to weaken PH’s other component parties contesting Malay-majority constituencies rather than affect DAP’s own support base.

“We are the punching bag and the bogeyman,” he said.

“This strategy and these tricks, to be honest, will not hurt the DAP in our constituencies. It will hurt our component parties (in PH that will contest in Malay-majority seats) … We contest in mainly non-Malay majority seats,” he added.

Meanwhile, Loke declined to comment on the ongoing dispute involving the Negeri Sembilan royal succession, saying the matter should be resolved within the royal institution according to established customs and laws.

“The royal crisis in Negeri Sembilan must be resolved within the royal institution based on the customs and the laws of the institution,” he added. - July 17, 2026

PKR Youth urges PH to reassess ties with BN

PKR Youth urges PH to reassess ties with BN

Youth chief Kamil Munim accuses Barisan Nasional of failing to show sincerity in their political cooperation

PKR Youth chief Kamil Munim said political manoeuvring can undermine national stability at a time when the country needs a strong government to tackle global challenges.

PETALING JAYA: PKR Youth has called on Pakatan Harapan to reassess its ties with Barisan Nasional, accusing BN of failing to show sincerity in their political cooperation.

PKR Youth chief Kamil Munim said political manoeuvring could undermine national stability at a time when the country needed a strong government to tackle global challenges, reported Utusan Malaysia.

“We do not see the same sincerity from the other side,” said Kamil, who is Anwar Ibrahim’s political secretary in his capacity as finance minister.

“The focus should be on efforts to strengthen our economy, rather than engaging in political manoeuvring to serve the interests of certain groups and people,” he said after attending an event at a school in Padang Rengas, Perak.

Despite cooperating at the federal government level, PH and BN contested against each other in last Saturday’s Johor state election, with BN winning 48 of the 56 seats. PH secured the remaining eight.

BN and Perikatan Nasional, which PAS dominates, are cooperating in the Negeri Sembilan state election. PN has announced candidates for 11 seats in the polls on Aug 1 in constituencies where BN has not fielded candidates.

PAS decided on June 8 to end its electoral cooperation with Bersatu, although both parties remain partners under PN.

Both parties did not campaign for each other in Johor, with PAS instructing its members and supporters to vote for BN in areas where PN was not contesting.

Former Umno Supreme Council member Puad Zarkashi claimed yesterday that BN chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is also the deputy prime minister, was positioning himself as a “prime minister-in-waiting” after Umno rekindled ties with PAS.

Puad said Umno and PAS were willing to work together again despite the collapse of their previous Muafakat Nasional pact, as both parties had short-term political goals.

“Zahid wants to be prime minister and PAS wants to return to the federal government,” he said in a Facebook post.

Former PM Najib to undergo heart procedure at Serdang Hospital next week

Former PM Najib to undergo heart procedure at Serdang Hospital next week

Former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak is expected to undergo a heart procedure at Serdang Hospital next week, with his aide saying he is in stable condition while his family has requested privacy. — Picture by Yusof Isa

First Published: Friday, 17 Jul 2026 4:28 PM MYT
Last Modified: Friday, 17 Jul 2026 5:42 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, July 17 — Former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak will undergo a heart procedure at Serdang Hospital next week, according to media reports today, as his family appealed for privacy during his treatment.

Counsel Farhan Shafee confirmed to Free Malaysia Today (FMT) that Najib would undergo the procedure but said he could not reveal its timing or location.

“The family has asked for privacy. We will provide updates from time to time,” he told FMT.

Separately, New Straits Times (NST) reported that the procedure is scheduled to take place at Serdang Hospital next week.

Najib’s special officer, Ahmad Lutfi Azhar, also told the newspaper that the former prime minister was in stable condition.

“He is now in stable condition,” Ahmad Lutfi said in a brief WhatsApp message, according to NST.

Najib, 72, is serving a six-year prison sentence after being convicted in the SRC International corruption case. His current sentence is due to end on August 23, 2028.

He is also appealing a separate High Court conviction for abuse of power and money laundering linked to the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal, for which he was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment. That sentence will only take effect after he completes his current jail term.

This is not the first time Najib has required hospital treatment while in custody. In September 2022, he was admitted to Kuala Lumpur Hospital after suffering fluctuations in his blood pressure.

PM Anwar: Biggest barrier to reform is resistance to change

PM Anwar: Biggest barrier to reform is resistance to change

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said efforts to reform governance and eradicate corruption continue to face opposition from those invested in maintaining the status quo. — Bernama pic

First Published: Friday, 17 Jul 2026 2:03 PM MYT
Last Modified: Friday, 17 Jul 2026 2:28 PM MYT

NILAI, July 17 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the biggest challenge in implementing national reforms stems not from a lack of technology or expertise, but from the reluctance of certain quarters to embrace change, including among members of the elite who continue to defend a culture of corruption and systemic weaknesses.

He said his more than three years of leading the government had shown that efforts to reform the system and eradicate corruption often faced resistance from those who had grown comfortable with longstanding practices.

Anwar said the government’s efforts to strengthen governance and combat corruption might not be popular, but they must continue to ensure the country’s administrative system becomes more transparent, accountable and effective.

“Many people are uncomfortable when we seek to reform the system. However, no system is ever perfect and it must always be improved. That is the demand of religion, culture and civilisation.

“When we seek to reform the system and eradicate a culture of corruption that has come to be regarded as normal, that is when resistance to change emerges. They may be modern in their attire and lifestyle, but the reluctance to change remains because change will challenge their position and the status quo,” he said.

He said this while speaking at the Temu Anwar programme with students and staff of the Technical Education Campus of the Institute of Teacher Education (IPG) in Bandar Enstek here today.

Also present were Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek and Technical Education Campus, Institute of Teacher Education director Kartini Abdul Mutalib.

Anwar said that, according to the theory of change, society is generally divided into two groups: those with a propensity to change and those who exhibit resistance to change.

The prime minister said the perception that only rural communities or the less educated are reluctant to embrace change is not necessarily accurate, as highly educated individuals, intellectuals and those in positions of power can display the same attitude.

“The first group is always seeking to improve itself. Even if it is already good, it wants to become better. But there is another group that refuses to change, remains backward and rigid, and sees every change as a threat,” he said.

He also cited irregularities in the awarding of contracts, saying a project that should cost RM400 million could end up costing RM500 million because of commission payments. He stressed that this was not merely an allegation but had been exposed through various reports.

In this regard, he urged educators and students to be among those who are open to change and to play their part in shaping the nation’s future.

Meanwhile, in response to a student’s question on proposals to provide assistance to reduce airfares for students from Sabah, Sarawak and the Federal Territory of Labuan, Anwar said the matter would be considered by the Cabinet.

“We are still in discussions because we want to understand why airfares are so high. Fuel costs are certainly a factor, but we could consider measures such as a special student scheme or advance booking arrangements to help secure lower fares.

“If I were to promise anything more than that, it would be difficult at the moment (because of our constraints)... but I will bring this matter for discussion (in the Cabinet),” he said. — Bernama

Witness tells Muhyiddin trial only hidden shareholder can explain RM1m payment to Bersatu

Witness tells Muhyiddin trial only hidden shareholder can explain RM1m payment to Bersatu

Former prime minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin is pictured at the Kuala Lumpur High Court Complex on July 10, 2026. — Picture by Firdaus Latif

First Published: Friday, 17 Jul 2026 2:45 PM MYT
Last Modified: Friday, 17 Jul 2026 4:17 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, July 17 — Bumiputera contractor Nepturis Sdn Bhd’s managing director Mohd Rizman Akum Khan today told the High Court that he was unsure if the company’s RM1 million cheque to political party Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia in February 2022 was a bribe, saying that only the company’s hidden shareholder Lian Tan Chuan (“TC Lian”) could answer.

Testifying as the 16th prosecution witness in Bersatu president and former prime minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s power abuse and money laundering trial, Rizman had confirmed that the company sent a February 1, 2021 letter to then-PM Muhyiddin to apply for a government project under the Bumiputera contractors’ programme Jana Wibawa.

The Public Works Department (JKR) on January 12, 2022 awarded the RM141 million contract to Nepturis to build the Klang Utara district police headquarters, while Rizman on February 16, 2022 — just about a month later — signed a company cheque for RM1 million to Bersatu.

The RM1 million cheque was deposited into Bersatu’s account on February 21, 2022.

When cross-examined by Muhyiddin’s lawyer Datuk Amer Hamzah Arshad, Rizman agreed that he had never given “rasuah” (bribes) to Muhyiddin or anyone else in relation to the RM141 million project, but was unsure if the RM1 million cheque was a bribe.

Amer: When you said Nepturis made payment of RM1 million to Bersatu, agree this is not ‘rasuah’, is not ‘suapan’ (gratification)?

Rizman: I’m not sure, only TC Lian can answer.

Rizman said that he was following Lian’s instructions to sign the RM1 million cheque, but said Lian did not tell him the purpose of the cheque.

When accepting the RM141 million project award, Rizman had on behalf of Nepturis signed a sworn declaration to JKR that the company representatives will not offer or give bribes to anyone as a reward for being selected for this government contract.

Rizman said he has never breached this declaration.

As part of the written sworn declaration, Rizman had agreed that JKR could terminate the contract if the company’s representatives had given such bribes, and had also promised to immediately file a report to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) or the police if there was such bribery.

Rizman agreed that JKR had not terminated the contract on corruption reasons, and confirmed he had never reported to the MACC about any bribery in relation to the project.

Was it donation or bribery?

Rizman agreed with Amer that Lian had not committed any wrongdoing when the latter gave instructions to “donate” to Bersatu.

Later when asked by lead prosecutor Datuk Wan Shaharuddin Wan Ladin, Rizman confirmed he was unsure about the legal terms of “rasuah” (bribery) and “suapan” (gratification).

Earlier, Rizman had told Amer that he understood “rasuah” to be “imbuhan” (gratuity or reward), and was unsure what “suapan” meant.

Rizman told Wan Shaharuddin that he understood “imbuhan” to mean “maybe if there was an assistance or to ‘balas budi’ (repay a good deed)”.

When asked who could confirm if Nepturis’ RM1 million to Bersatu was a donation or “imbuhan”, Rizman said this should be referred to Lian.

Rizman says Muhyiddin didn’t contact him over the project

During cross-examination by Amer, Rizman confirmed that Muhyiddin had never called him after Nepturis’ February 2021 letter to the then-PM about the project application, and said he did not know Muhyiddin.

Rizman confirmed that Muhyiddin did not communicate with him after Nepturis won the RM141 million project, and that Muhyiddin never made any enquiries to him whenever Nepturis received payment from JKR for work done on the project.

Amer: In fact, no question of ‘dah dapat duit belum’ (have you received money) from Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin?

Rizman: Agree.

Later, Rizman told Wan Shaharuddin that Nepturis had successfully won a bid for an earlier project for the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in 2020 or 2021, and that this was not a project under Jana Wibawa and that he did not write to the prime minister to apply for this project.

Rizman said there was no donation made for the NCDC project.

Asked why Nepturis had then written a letter addressed to Muhyiddin for this RM141 million project, Rizman said he was following instructions from Lian.

Lawyer Datuk Amer Hamzah Arshad is at the Kuala Lumpur Court Complex on March 10, 2026. — Picture by Sayuti Zainudin

Why was TC Lian’s name hidden from official records on Nepturis’ shareholders?

Rizman, who was appointed by Lian in 2018 to be Nepturis managing director, receives a monthly income of RM10,350 from Lian and said he follows the latter’s instructions.

Rizman previously said Lian had handed over Nepturis to him and Aliza Abd Malek, but that the two of them never paid any money when they took over the company’s shares.

Although the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) records only have Rizman’s and Aliza’s name as having 50 per cent shares each in Nepturis, Rizman said the actual arrangement is that the two of them hold 35 per cent shares each while Lian holds 30 per cent.

While confirming that Lian’s name as a beneficial owner was not disclosed to SSM, Rizman said he did not know previously that the Companies Act required him to declare Lian’s shareholding to SSM.

Rizman disagreed that his failure as a company director to disclose Lian’s shares to SSM was an offence, saying that this is because he had only found out about the legal requirement now.

Rizman confirmed that Lian’s shares in Nepturis was not informed to the Finance Ministry and the Prime Minister’s Office.

Today, Amer suggested that Nepturis was not a fully Bumiputera company as claimed in its February 2021 letter to Muhyiddin due to Lian’s 30 per cent hidden shares, but Rizman insisted that the company was still a Bumiputera company as 70 per cent of it was held by him and Aliza.

Rizman later agreed that Nepturis is not a 100 per cent Bumiputera company.

On Tuesday, Amer had suggested the real reason that Lian had wanted his name omitted from Nepturis’ official records was to give an impression to the government that the company is 100 per cent owned by Bumiputera, but Rizman disagreed with this suggestion.

Responding today to deputy public prosecutor Noralis Mat’s questions, Rizman claimed that both he and Aliza did not lie to SSM, insisting that Lian did fully give the company over to them as his long-time staff.

“Just that now, Aliza and I need help from TC Lian in terms of capital, and also guidance for Nepturis Sdn Bhd’s operations. Aliza and I have long been with TC Lian, this is a golden opportunity for Aliza and I to upgrade ourselves, to progress more in the future,” he said.

He said there was an agreement to not include Lian’s name in Nepturis to ensure that Nepturis would not be affected if Lian’s company Metrasys Sdn Bhd face any problems in the future such as bankruptcy, and vice versa.

“This is our business strategy. It is not an element or intention for us to cheat anyone,” Rizman said.

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

The trial before High Court judge Noor Ruwena Md Nurdin resumes on July 27.

Recommended reading:

Muhyiddin’s trial: Director of company that won RM141m project says helped all tender rivals to write to PM too

Muhyiddin’s trial: Bumiputera company director says gets paid RM12,500 monthly, denies being used as alleged hidden shareholder’s nominee

School reputations cannot come before bullied children, says Anwar

School reputations cannot come before bullied children, says Anwar

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim speaks during the ‘Temu Anwar’ programme at the Institute of Teacher Education (IPG) Technical Education Campus in Bandar Enstek, Nilai, on July 17, 2026. — Bernama pic

First Published: Friday, 17 Jul 2026 1:42 PM MYT

NILAI, July 17 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reminded schools not to conceal bullying incidents to protect their reputation, stressing that swift action is essential to safeguard victims and address the problem effectively.

“Some may regard bullying as a minor issue, but its impact on victims is profound. I do not agree with schools attempting to cover up cases simply to protect their image.

“If a school with 1,000 students reports two bullying cases, the headteacher or principal should not be blamed. They are not in the wrong for reporting the incident, but they are wrong if they did not take any action and concealed the case,” he said.

Anwar said this at the Temu Anwar programme with students and staff of the Institute of Teacher Education (IPG) Technical Education Campus in Bandar Enstek today.

Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek was also present.

The prime minister said the persistence of bullying reflected shortcomings in efforts to instil good character and moral values among students, despite wider access to religious education than in the past.

He stressed that education should not focus solely on producing academically outstanding graduates or technically skilled professionals but should also nurture individuals who understand human values and respect others.

“We may become technocrats, IT experts, or hold PhDs, but what is the value of these achievements if we are not taught to understand humanity and respect other people?” he chided.

Anwar said teachers carry a significant responsibility to ensure educational institutions remain places of learning that produce generations with strong faith, sound moral values and compassion for others.

At the same time, he said Malaysia’s teaching profession was performing at a very high standard and expressed hope that its achievements would continue to improve in line with efforts to raise the country’s education quality to the highest level. — Bernama

Transport Ministry: Cabinet approves plan to make road crash offenders compensate victims

Transport Ministry: Cabinet approves plan to make road crash offenders compensate victims

The Cabinet has backed in principle a proposal to make road traffic offenders financially accountable to accident victims through a court-ordered compensation mechanism. — Social media pic

First Published: Friday, 17 Jul 2026 12:14 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, July 17 — The Cabinet has agreed in principle to introduce court-ordered compensation for road accident victims under proposed amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987.

In a statement today, the Transport Ministry said the Cabinet approved the proposal on July 15 as part of wider reforms that would make offenders accountable not only through imprisonment, fines or driving disqualification, but also for the impact of their actions on victims and their families.

“The proposal aims to ensure that offenders are not only subjected to penalties such as imprisonment, fines and disqualification from driving, but are also held accountable for the impact of their actions on victims and their families,” the ministry said.

The ministry said compensation would not be fixed automatically or determined administratively by the government.

Instead, the courts would decide the amount based on the facts and merits of each case, including the seriousness of the offence, the injuries sustained or loss of life, the losses suffered by victims or their next of kin, and the offender’s ability to pay.

It added that the proposed mechanism would not affect the rights of victims or their families to make insurance claims or pursue civil action through existing legal channels.

The amendments would also strengthen the Road Traffic Offence Demerit Points System (Kejara) to better identify high-risk drivers and repeat offenders.

Proposed changes include clearer procedures for notifying motorists of demerit points, mechanisms for representations and administrative reviews, and the adjustment or removal of demerit points where an offence is not proven or does not result in a conviction.

The ministry described the compensation proposal and the Kejara reforms as important measures to strengthen justice, accountability and road safety.

It said the new legal framework was intended to provide appropriate redress for victims and their families while ensuring offenders were held responsible for their actions and helping to prevent repeat traffic offences.

Following the Cabinet’s in-principle approval, the ministry will begin drafting amendments to the Road Transport Act.

It said the proposed changes would undergo further review before returning to the Cabinet for consideration and subsequently being tabled in Parliament.