MCA urges matriculation admission for ‘overlooked’ SPM top scorers

MCA urges matriculation admission for ‘overlooked’ SPM top scorers


Party president Wee Ka Siong says MCA Youth has received complaints from 11 left out of the programme

MCA president Wee Ka Siong asked how the omissions could have happened. (Facebook pic)

PETALING JAYA: MCA has urged the government to admit 11 SPM top scorers who have been left out of enrolment into the matriculation programme.

Its president, Wee Ka Siong, said government leaders had promised that SPM 10A scorers would automatically be admitted into the matriculation programme.

He said the government had announced that 6,717 students who achieved 10As in the 2025 SPM would receive automatic offers.


“However, the MCA Youth secretariat has received 11 complaints from 10A scorers who were left out, raising serious questions about this so-called ‘automatic’ system.

“What went wrong? Isn’t an automatic mechanism supposed to be foolproof? How could such omissions happen?” he said in a Facebook post.

Wee said the complaints received by MCA Youth may be only the tip of the iceberg, as other political parties have also stepped in to assist students with their appeals.

He urged Putrajaya to honour its commitment and rectify the oversight within the next few days, so that SPM 10A students who were left out can rightfully secure their places.

On April 8, the education ministry gave an assurance that all SPM 2025 candidates who scored 10As and above who apply for the government-run matriculation programme will be offered places.

The ministry said the automatic offer is given to all candidates who apply to join the matriculation programme regardless of their race and background.

Are petrol subsidies more important than government services?

Murray Hunter
May 02, 2026


Are petrol subsidies more important than government services?






The government has reached a tight situation by its own volitions that some hard choices must be made about government spending.

Maintaining the current petrol subsidy regimes seems to be more important than some basic government services which are being cut. The government is now beginning to tighten government spending as the weight of fuel subsidies rise. This is caused by the Middle East crisis Fahmi Fadzil, the government spokesman announced.

Ministries have been told to submit proposed budget cuts by May 15, as part of a coordinated review by the Ministry of Finance. It is claimed that the urgency in cutting other government spending arises from an RM 7.0 billion per month subsidy cost. Fuel subsidies have risen from RM 400 million to RM 3.0 billion in order to keep costs down in key sectors like agriculture, fishing, and logistics.

The whole point of the subsidies is to keep costs down and hedge a potential inflation surge.

The Ministry of Finance has already stated that it plans to achieve a 10% reduction in spending on services, supplies, asset purchases, salaries and allowances. This would amount to some RM 40 billion. GLCs and agencies have been instructed to cut spending by 20%.

Reports indicate that RM 2.06 billion will come from the Health Ministry’s RM 46.5 billion budget, RM 2.39 billion will come from the Higher Education Ministry’s RM 18.6 billion budget, and the Defence and Home Ministries are also due to make drastic cuts.

There is some great wisdom in cutting government expenditure, particularly what is non-essential spending. It’s a sort of “Doge like” activity within the government, and for this the administration should be congratulated. This is great management.

However, one must also ask the question, should government finances be strained so much to ensure consumers don’t pay anymore for RON95? A rise in petrol prices could have a positive effect by encouraging consumers to think twice about their petrol usage. Petrol price rises within the region have seen a lower volume of private traffic on the road system. A rise in the price of petrol is a form of market induced rationing.

This could be something worth considering. Such a move might save the government a lot of money.


The elephant in the room

There is an elephant in the room regarding federal fiscal finances this year. The planned budget deficit of RM 74.6 billion looks like overrunning to something around R< 110-134 billion. It appears the key pressure on this has been the massive rise in fuel subsidies.

However, government bond issues in the first quarter of the year were RM 45 billion. These bonds were issued before any knowledge and effects of the Middle East war came into the picture. So the question here is where has been all the borrowed money gone to?

There seems to be a big hole in the budget figure that hasn’t been explained. The rise in petrol subsidies just doesn’t explain things.

Greatest confusion lies not in symbols or celebrations

Greatest confusion lies not in symbols or celebrations

R Nadeswaran
Published: May 2, 2026 10:32 AM
Updated: 12:32 PM



COMMENT | Anything resembling a cross supposedly confuses Muslims; they claim the kebaya worn by airline stewardesses is too revealing and dictate that names of food and beverages like hot dogs and ginger beer must be changed to avoid confusion.

Don’t forget that Oktoberfest, a harvest festival in Germany, has been called a “pesta arak” (alcohol party), the Bon Odori, the Japanese annual cultural festival, is “unacceptable to Muslims”, and greetings, like “Merry Christmas” or acknowledging Valentine’s Day, have been flagged as potentially confusing.

So, do we remove the plus (+) sign from our arithmetic books and redesign the aprons at our airports so that they don’t confuse Muslim passengers?

Now, even a water festival in Kuala Lumpur has drawn the ire of religious czars, Umno has been forced to join the chorus - brandishing its “religious badge” to avoid exclusion - with Deputy Prime Minister and Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi entering the fray.

But then again, Malaysians have to be reminded that some politicians say all kinds of things without respect for the law and common decency.

The Bon Odori festival in Selangor in 2022


Zahid says Umno wants events to align with Malaysia’s cultural values, religious sensitivities, and society’s norms, and to uphold local customs and religious sensibilities.

He claims Umno took the concerns of the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department and the Federal Territories Mufti Department, saying they reflect the views of a large segment of Malaysians.

“Our principles are clear - entertainment is not wrong, but it must come with limits. Progress must continue, but our values cannot be compromised,” he posted on Facebook.

Organisers, he added, should discuss future programmes with authorities to “preserve community harmony”.

Where was this deep concern for sensitivities and decency when Umno leaders were demonising opponents in the run-up to GE15? Where did these values disappear? Now, like worms out of the woodwork, they talk about community harmony.


Convenient shield

Then again, Zahid and Umno had fought and continued fighting for someone who stole billions and was found guilty, which reflects their interpretation of values.

Some were busy enriching themselves at the expense of the state. Where was the respect for the law then?

Politicians love to wrap themselves in culture and religion when it suits them. It’s a convenient shield to control what people watch, listen to, or enjoy - while their own conduct remains questionable at best.

If Zahid truly believes in “limits” and “harmony”, maybe he should start by cleaning his own house before telling musicians and concertgoers how to behave.

Ahmad Zahid Hamidi


Respect for the law and common decency isn’t just about entertainment - it’s about those who make the laws and follow them. Until then, forgive me if I take Zahid’s call with a truckload of salt.

At the end of the day, the real confusion isn’t in kebayas, hot dogs, or water festivals -it’s in the selective morality of politicians who preach virtue while defending vice.

They clutch pearls over Oktoberfest and Bon Odori, yet clutch wallets when billions vanish from the state coffers. They warn of “limits” and “harmony”, but their own conduct has been limitless in hypocrisy and discord.

Zahid’s sermon on cultural values and religious sensitivities might sound noble, but it collapses under the weight of his party’s record.

Where was this moral compass when opponents were demonised before GE15? Where was this respect for law when leaders fought to protect a convicted thief? It is not festivals that erode harmony - it is the erosion of trust when leaders bend rules for themselves while tightening them for everyone else.


Behind the curtain

Politicians love to wrap themselves in religion and culture when it suits them. It’s a convenient cloak, shielding them from scrutiny while they dictate what ordinary Malaysians can watch, eat, or celebrate.

Yet, behind the curtain, the same guardians of morality are busy enriching themselves, trampling the very values they claim to defend.

If Zahid truly believes in “limits”, perhaps he should start by limiting corruption. If he truly believes in “harmony”, perhaps he should harmonise his party’s actions with the laws they claim to uphold.

Until then, every lecture on festivals and concerts is nothing more than theatre - a morality play staged by actors who long ago abandoned the script of integrity.

Respect for law and decency isn’t about banning kebayas or renaming Oktoberfest. It’s about lawmakers living by the standards they impose.

Until that happens, forgive me if I say that right-minded citizens will take Zahid’s sermon not just with a pinch of salt, but with a truckload.

The next time politicians warn us about “confusion”, we should remind them: the greatest confusion lies not in symbols or celebrations, but in leaders who mistake hypocrisy for values and propaganda for principle.



R NADESWARAN is a veteran journalist who strives to uphold the ethos of civil rights leader John Lewis: “When you see something that is not right, not fair, not just, you have to speak up. You have to say something; you have to do something.” Comments: citizen.nades22@gmail.com

***

According to Malay politicians, the Malays are the most easily confused people - poor darlings.

I recall RPK once wrote about his experience as a member of a Malay business group's visit to China. He noted that many in the group raised Cain about the possibility of eating non-halal meat during their meals, yet the same complainers would go eagerly about 'looking' for non-halal "meat" in the evenings, smiling or smirking gleefully at the salacious encounters - confused? wakakaka.

Umno must reinvent itself or risk irrelevance, says Mohamad Hasan as party marks 80th anniversary

Umno must reinvent itself or risk irrelevance, says Mohamad Hasan as party marks 80th anniversary



Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan acknowledged that the party’s loss of federal power in 2018 had eroded public trust, but said Umno has since drawn strength from the crisis and grassroots loyalty. — Picture by Choo Choy May

Saturday, 02 May 2026 10:51 AM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, May 2 — Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan today called for a sweeping reinvention of the party, warning that it risks being left behind if it fails to adapt to shifting voter sentiment and reconnect with Malays who are increasingly drifting away.

Speaking at Umno’s 80th anniversary gathering — which coincided with his 70th birthday — the Rembau MP said the party could no longer rely on legacy or nostalgia to stay relevant.

“Reality is, Malays are not as close to us as before. Some even say they no longer need Umno,” he said.

“However, Umno is not dead. Despite all the trials and tribulations, Umno is being tested and whenever we are tested, we come back stronger,” he said in his opening speech at the convention at the World Trade Centre.

Mohamad acknowledged that the party’s loss of federal power in 2018 had eroded public trust, but said Umno has since drawn strength from the crisis and grassroots loyalty.

Framing the party’s future around adaptability, he stressed that Umno must move away from rigid political formulas and adopt a more flexible, data-driven approach ahead of state elections and the next general election.

“Elections today are no longer static. This is not weakness — flexibility is our strength,” he said, adding that modern campaigns are now a “war of data” rather than traditional ceramah-driven contests.

He cautioned that internal divisions would undermine any chance of a political comeback.

“If we fight among ourselves before the general election, we will lose,” he warned.

He also urged the party to undertake a deeper ideological reset, saying Umno must better define its direction in the face of digitalisation and globalisation, particularly as younger, digitally native voters grow up in a borderless political environment.

At the same time, Mohamad said Umno must balance its role as a political vehicle for Malays and Islam with the realities of Malaysia’s multicultural society.

“Umno’s future cannot be separated from Malaysia’s ambitions; it must align with them,” he said.

Despite acknowledging waning support, he insisted Umno remains central to Malaysia’s political stability, arguing that strong governments still depend on the party’s participation, alongside its experience in managing crises and the loyalty of its grassroots base.

Looking ahead, Mohamad said Umno’s goal is to return as a dominant political force, but only if it is willing to change.

“If we do not change, the rakyat will change us,” he said, adding that with state elections in Johor and Melaka approaching, the party needed a clear direction to secure victory.

He said Malays were no longer as “mesra” with Umno as before and claimed that many had forgotten the party’s contributions to nation-building.

“That’s fine, we will fix this and we will do it with the people’s sentiments as the driving force. We will ask what future we want, what kind of Malaysia we want, and build our strong nation on the backbone of strong, proud Malaysians,” he said.

Mohamad added that challenges must be faced with an open mind, saying his 70th birthday marked a personal shift in focus.

“It’s not about me or my career anymore. At this point, all I want to do is give back to the people, the party, Islam, and Malays, and we will strive to be the dominant force in Malaysia again,” he said.

KL must stay open and modern, not be held back by ‘reckless narratives’, says Kepong MP on Rain Rave festival

KL must stay open and modern, not be held back by ‘reckless narratives’, says Kepong MP on Rain Rave festival



Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng said the event had attracted large crowds and contributed positively to local economic activity, but noted that some parties were attempting to “manufacture controversy out of nothing”. — Picture by Azneal Ishak

Saturday, 02 May 2026 10:14 AM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, May 2 — The Rain Rave Water Music Festival 2026 is a lawful and well-organised event that has generated real economic activity for local traders, workers and businesses, said Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng.

In a statement today, Lim said the event had attracted large crowds and contributed positively to local economic activity, but noted that some parties were attempting to “manufacture controversy out of nothing”.

He said such “empty politics” would only damage public confidence and undermine efforts to grow Malaysia’s tourism sector.

Lim also expressed full support for enforcement actions by the Royal Malaysian Police and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), saying their presence on the ground ensures order, safety, and compliance with the law.

He stressed that freedom of expression does not include the right to create disorder, spread misinformation or disrupt lawful activities that benefit the public.

“If you do not like it, please do not attend. But do not disrupt others or impose your views on the public,” he said.

Lim added that Kuala Lumpur must continue to develop as a modern, open, and economically active city, and should not be held back by “reckless and irresponsible narratives”.

The Rain Rave Water Music Festival, held in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026, has drawn public attention and debate in recent days, with differing views emerging over its cultural and social appropriateness.

The three-day event, which features music performances and water-themed activities in Bukit Bintang, has also been highlighted by organisers as part of efforts to boost tourism and support local businesses in the capital.

Separately, Malaysian Siam Association (Persatuan Siam Malaysia, PSM) president Sam Maark Suvanphet had clarified that Songkran is a cultural and religious New Year celebration of the Siamese community and should not be confused with water-based entertainment events such as music festivals.

He said the latter are purely entertainment-driven and have no cultural or religious link to Songkran.

Meanwhile, former minister Yeo Bee Yin said Malaysia’s strength lies in its diversity and ability to host a wide range of events that appeal to global audiences, especially during Visit Malaysia Year.

She added that while some may feel the event is not for them, it should not be stifled as it supports tourism and local economic activity, stressing that moral policing does not contribute to economic growth.

Yeo Bee Yin backs Rain Rave festival, says ‘moral policing’ hurts tourism push

Yeo Bee Yin backs Rain Rave festival, says ‘moral policing’ hurts tourism push



Yeo Bee Yin said Malaysia’s strength lies in its diversity, including the ability to host a wide range of events that cater to both local and international audiences, particularly in conjunction with national tourism campaigns. — Picture by Miera Zulyana

Saturday, 02 May 2026 9:03 AM MYT



KUALA LUMPUR, May 2 — Former minister Yeo Bee Yin has defended the Rain Rave Water Music Festival (RRWMF) amid ongoing backlash, saying critics should not overreact and warned that excessive “moral policing” could harm Malaysia’s tourism sector.

In a Facebook posting yesterday, she acknowledged the event may not appeal to everyone, including herself.

“Watching this video, I’ll be the first to admit: I’m likely past my ‘rave’ years. Personally, I feel too old for this kind of energy, but would I ever stop it? A big no,” she said, referring to a video of the RRWMF.

Yeo stressed that Malaysia’s strength lies in its diversity, including the ability to host a wide range of events that cater to both local and international audiences, particularly in conjunction with national tourism campaigns.

“We must remember that Malaysia’s strength lies in our diversity, and that includes offering a variety of events that appeal to a global audience — especially during Visit Malaysia Year,” the Puchong MP said.

Taking aim at critics of the Rain Rave Water Music Festival, she said the backlash was disproportionate.

“To those who are making a mountain out of a molehill over the Rain Wave Water Music Festival, my message is simple,” she said.

“Moral policing doesn’t pay the bills; tourism receipts and a thriving economy do. Stifling these events only hurts our local vendors, hotels, and small businesses.”

She added that maintaining Malaysia’s competitiveness as a tourist destination requires a more pragmatic and inclusive approach.

“If we want to remain a competitive destination, we must stay inclusive and pragmatic,” she said.

Yeo also referenced a well-known quote by former Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping to underscore her point.

“It doesn’t matter if a cat is black or white, so long as it catches mice, it is a good cat,” she said.

The RRWMF, held in Bukit Bintang, has drawn mixed reactions since its launch, with critics questioning its suitability in a city-centre setting.

Religious authorities had earlier raised concerns that the event could affect moral standards and social norms.

Despite the backlash, the festival has seen strong turnout, with thousands attending its opening night, while organisers and the Tourism Ministry have defended it as part of efforts to boost tourism and local economic activity.

Jealous rage likely motive behind Ketereh college girl’s killing, Kelantan police say amid week-long remand for boyfriend and buddy

Jealous rage likely motive behind Ketereh college girl’s killing, Kelantan police say amid week-long remand for boyfriend and buddy



Four suspects – two teen boys and a couple in their 60s – were taken to the Magistrates’ Court in Kota Bharu on May 2, 2026 for a police remand order for a murder investigation into the death of 19-year-old Nurfisya Zulkifly from Kuala Kangsar, Perak, whose body was found with 61 stab wounds by the roadside in Keterah, Kelantan a day earlier. — Bernama pic

Saturday, 02 May 2026 1:39 PM MYT


KOTA BHARU, May 2 — Jealousy is believed to be the motive behind the murder of a 19-year-old college student whose body was found with 61 stab wounds in Keterah yesterday.

Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat said investigators suspect the victim was stabbed to death by her 19-year-old boyfriend, who allegedly believed she was having an affair, the New Straits Times reported today.

“Initial investigations showed that an argument broke out between the victim and the suspect, which led to her death.

“She is believed to have been stabbed while inside the suspect’s car,” the senior policeman was quoted as saying.

He said the boyfriend, identified as the main suspect, was arrested yesterday alongside another youth believed to be a friend of the victim.

Both are now under a seven-day remand order.

The policeman added that the boyfriend’s parents — a 66-year-old man and a 60-year-old woman – have also been detained for the next three days to assist in investigations.


The remand orders were issued by Magistrate Amirul Asyraf Abdul Rasid today, the New Straits Times reported.

Mohd Yusoff confirmed all suspects have no prior criminal records and tested negative for drugs.

He said investigations into the case are ongoing under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder, which carry the death penalty or imprisonment of between 30 and 40 years, as well as whipping upon conviction.

Local media had earlier identified the victim as 19-year-old Nurfisya Zulkifly from Kuala Kangsar, Perak who had just returned to her Ketereh college campus to start a new semester a week ago.

Her body with 61 stab wounds was found by the roadside near a paddy field in Kampung Simah yesterday and was buried early this morning in her hometown.

Video misidentified tiger at Osaka zoo, not Malayan tiger, says Perhilitan

Video misidentified tiger at Osaka zoo, not Malayan tiger, says Perhilitan



Perhilitan says the tiger, with its ribs and hip bones visible, inside an enclosure at Tennoji Zoo in Osaka, Japan, is an Amur Tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) and not a Malayan Tiger (Panthera tigris jacksoni) as claimed on social media. — Screengrab from Threads

Saturday, 02 May 2026 9:52 AM MYT


PUTRAJAYA, May 2 — The Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) today refuted claims that a purported Malayan Tiger was spotted in a weak and sickly condition at Tennoji Zoo in Osaka, Japan, as seen in a viral video circulating on social media.

In a statement issued today, Perhilitan clarified that the animal in the video is an Amur Tiger (Panthera tigris altaica), not a Malayan Tiger (Panthera tigris jacksoni). In fact, no Malayan Tigers exist at the said zoo.

“The video shows a tiger that has been falsely identified as a Malayan Tiger in a thin and unhealthy state at Tennoji Zoo in Osaka, Japan.

“This has sparked public concern and negative reactions, particularly regarding wildlife welfare and the perceived image of Malayan Tiger conservation,” the statement read.

Perhilitan also clarified that the Amur Tiger does not belong to the department or the Government of Malaysia.

The department added that the spread of this misinformation has caused public confusion and damaged public perception of Malaysia’s conservation efforts for its endangered wildlife.

In light of this, Perhilitan reminded the public to be responsible by verifying facts before sharing any information, particularly on social media.

“The dissemination of inaccurate or unverified information can create confusion, trigger negative perceptions and undermine wildlife conservation efforts at both the national and international levels.

“The public is also encouraged to refer to official government sources or authorised bodies for accurate and reliable information, and to avoid making baseless speculations,” the department said.

Perhilitan remains fully committed to preserving the nation’s wildlife and will continue working with stakeholders at home and abroad to ensure the welfare of endangered species, including the Malayan Tiger. — Bernama

***

“The dissemination of inaccurate or unverified information can create confusion, trigger negative perceptions and undermine ... etc etc etc" - 

WHAT? Take away Malaysians' fave sports?

Songkran is cultural heritage, not water festival entertainment, says Malaysian Siam Association amid growing confusion

Songkran is cultural heritage, not water festival entertainment, says Malaysian Siam Association amid growing confusion



A massive crowd fills the closed-off streets of Jalan Bukit Bintang, getting soaked by water cannons during the inaugural Rain Rave Water Music Festival in Kuala Lumpur on April 30, 2026. — Picture by Raymond Manuel

Saturday, 02 May 2026 9:50 AM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, May 1 — Persatuan Siam Malaysia (PSM) president Sam Maark Suvanphet yesterday said that there is confusion between the Songkran celebration and water-based entertainment events such as water festivals or water music festivals.

He said Songkran is the Siamese New Year celebration, which carries cultural, family and religious values, including traditional practices such as seeking blessings from parents and performing religious activities at temples.

He explained that the festival is a long-standing heritage practised by the Siamese community in Malaysia in a respectful and orderly manner.

In contrast, he said water music festivals and similar events held at certain locations are entertainment and economic programmes with no cultural or religious link to the Siamese community.

The association said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing had also clarified that such festivals are not Songkran celebrations, but water-themed music events aimed at boosting the local economy and providing recreational activities for the public.

PSM said it views seriously the growing confusion, which it said has led to negative perceptions, including attempts to associate Songkran with unrelated social issues.

It added that the matter has also been politicised, resulting in misunderstandings among the public.

The association stressed that Songkran celebrations by the Siamese community in states such as Perlis, Kedah, Perak and Kelantan are conducted peacefully, in an orderly manner and with cultural respect, and have long been accepted by local communities without controversy.

PSM said Malaysia’s multicultural society must continue to be preserved through mutual respect and understanding, adding that individuals who feel certain programmes are not suitable to their beliefs are free not to participate without misrepresenting the culture of others.

It urged all parties not to equate Songkran with unrelated entertainment events and to avoid turning cultural matters into political issues.

“Songkran is our cultural heritage, and we will continue to uphold the correct understanding so that it remains respected as a celebration of unity, respect and harmony in society,” Sam said.

Trump says hostilities in Iran ‘terminated’

Latest in Middle East war: Trump says hostilities in Iran ‘terminated’, 14 Iran soldiers die in demining op, Iran urges ‘economic battle’



US President Donald Trump attends an event at the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach, Florida May 1, 2026. — Reuters pic

Saturday, 02 May 2026 9:34 AM MYT


PARIS, May 2 — The latest developments in the Middle East war:

Trump says hostilities in Iran ‘terminated’


US President Donald Trump told top US lawmakers that hostilities in Iran had ended, after coming under pressure from Congress to seek authorisation for the conflict as it headed into its third month.

“There has been no exchange of fire between United States Forces and Iran since April 7, 2026. The hostilities that began on February 28, 2026, have terminated,” he wrote in letters to House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate president pro tempore Chuck Grassley.


Lebanon says 12 dead in Israel strikes

Lebanon’s health ministry said 12 people were killed yesterday in Israeli strikes on the country’s south, including in a town where Israel’s army had issued an evacuation order despite a ceasefire.

The strikes in Habboush — where the evacuation warning was issued — killed eight people and wounded 21.

Other strikes in Zrariyeh killed four people and wounded four more, the ministry said.

14 Iran soldiers killed in demining op

Fourteen soldiers were killed yesterday during operations to defuse unexploded ordnance in Iran’s north-western Zanjan province, local media reported.

“Today, during one of these missions, 14 of these dedicated forces were martyred and 2 were injured,” Fars news agency reported, citing the powerful Revolutionary Guards.

Iran leader calls for economic battle

Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei urged his people to wage economic battle and “disappoint” its enemies, as the war with the United States and Israel and years of sanctions take a toll.

In a written statement, Khamenei went on to call for “prioritising the consumption of domestically manufactured goods”, and said “the owners of damaged businesses should avoid, as much as possible, layoffs and separation of their workforce”.


Trump ‘not satisfied’

US President Donald Trump said he was unhappy with Iran’s new proposal for peace talks, which Iran’s state news agency IRNA said was delivered via mediator Pakistan.

“At this moment, I’m not satisfied with what they’re offering,” he told reporters. “They’re asking for things that I can’t agree to.”

Details of the proposal were not yet public.


Oil prices fall

The price of oil slid after reports of Iran’s latest talks proposal, but both West Texas Intermediate and the other main US benchmark, Brent, clawed back some ground and were trading comfortably above the symbolic US$100 (RM397) a barrel mark.


New US sanctions

The US Treasury Department slapped new sanctions on three Iranian foreign currency exchange firms to try to stem the flow of Tehran’s “financial lifelines”.


US aircraft carrier leaves Gulf

The USS Gerald R. Ford left the Middle East after taking part in operations against Iran, a US official said.

Two other aircraft carriers — the USS Abraham Lincoln and USS George H.W. Bush — are among 20 US ships still in the region.


Refugee aid hit

The UN refugee agency said the war had sent freight rates soaring for delivering aid to refugees in the Middle East and Africa.

Costs have shot up nearly 18 per cent as shipments have had to be rerouted because of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and port congestion, UNHCR said, sparking delivery delays.

Iran open to US talks

Iran’s judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei said Tehran was open to talks with the United States but would not accept what he called policy “imposition” under threats.

“The Islamic Republic has never shied away from negotiations...but we certainly do not accept imposition,” Ejei said in a video carried by the judiciary’s Mizan Online website. — AFP

42m ago

 (02:45 GMT)

Trump doubles down on Iran economic squeeze; US announces sanctions on Hormuz toll-payers

By Mike Hanna

Reporting from Washington DC, US

President Trump continues to insist that his strategy of squeezing Iran financially is going to work.

The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, he claims, is costing the Iranians millions of dollars.

He also insists that ongoing sanctions against individuals and entities within Iran are having an economic effect.

He seems convinced that the pressure he is putting on Iran will bring Tehran to the table to discuss a deal on his terms.

The Treasury Department has announced it will impose sanctions against entities and individuals who pay Iranian tolls to pass through the strait.

This is a very real threat.

The State Department has announced what it calls a new “Maritime Freedom Construct”, which will be controlled by the US Central Command.

It appears to be an alliance of ships that agree to US terms to use the strait before being allowed through, escorted by US Navy vessels and paying no tolls.

It is a complicated scenario, but it is the way the US is attempting to reconcile its ongoing blockade of the Strait of Hormuz while still seeking to get the flow of oil through the waterway, the absence of which is having a massive economic impact globally.

Oil tankers and cargo ships line up in the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from Khor Fakkan, United Arab Emirates, in March 2026 [File: Altaf Qadri/AP Photo]

China’s UN envoy says UNSC should reconsider removing peacekeepers from Lebanon

 

20m ago

 (03:00 GMT)

China’s UN envoy says UNSC should reconsider removing peacekeepers from Lebanon

As we’ve been reporting, China’s ambassador to the United Nations, Fu Cong, spoke to reporters in New York on Friday, as his country assumed the rotating presidency of the UN Security Council for the month of May.

Fu said that one of the issues China has been considering was the future of the UN’s peacekeeping mission in southern Lebanon.

“We do believe that we should revisit the decision, actually, to withdraw the UNIFIL,” Fu said, referring to a resolution passed by the UN Security Council in August last year.

UN peacekeepers have been stationed in southern Lebanon since Israel’s 1978 invasion, but last year, the council’s 15 members voted to bring the mission to a close from the end of 2026.

“I think at least the view of the overwhelming majority of the Security Council is that this is not the time to really, to withdraw the UNIFIL out of that part of the country,” Fu said.

China is waiting for a report from the UN Secretariat expected in June “before we take our position”, he added.

A UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) armoured vehicle drives at the entrance of the southern Lebanese coastal city of Tyre on Thursday [Mahmoud Zayyat/AFP]

Global Sumud Flotilla says 31 activists injured during Israeli interception in international waters

Global Sumud Flotilla says 31 activists injured during Israeli interception in international waters



Activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was intercepted on international waters by the Israeli Navy, walk towards the airport of Heraklion, on the island of Crete, Greece May 1, 2026. — Reuters pic

Saturday, 02 May 2026 9:57 AM MYT


ANKARA, May 2 — At least 31 activists were injured during Israel’s interception of the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters, Anadolu Ajansi reported according to statements from the group.


The Global Sumud Flotilla committee said those injured included activists from multiple countries, among them four each from New Zealand and Australia; three each from Italy and the US; two each from Canada, the Netherlands, Spain, the UK, Colombia and Germany; and one each from Hungary, Ukraine, France, Poland and Portugal.


One of the injured holds dual Turkish-German citizenship, while efforts are ongoing to determine the identities of three other passengers, it added.

In a separate statement, it said activists detained during the interception were subjected to ill-treatment aboard an Israeli naval vessel for nearly 40 hours.


The group said that detainees were deliberately denied sufficient water and food and forced to sleep on wet floors.


It also said participants who resisted the detention of Saif Abukeshek, a Spanish national of Palestinian origin, and Brazilian citizen Thiago Avila were met with force by Israeli soldiers.

One activist described the incident, saying, “As you can see, my nose is probably broken. My ribs hurt; maybe they are broken, too. I’m not sure. My neck as well. They kicked us, punched us, and dragged us on the ground, and we even heard shots being fired at people,” according to the statement.


The Global Sumud humanitarian aid flotilla was attacked near the Greek island of Crete, 600 nautical miles from its destination, the blockade-ravaged enclave of Gaza.

The flotilla’s first ships, carrying humanitarian aid, left Barcelona on April 12, while the main fleet set sail from the Italian island of Sicily on April 26, aiming to break Israel’s years-long blockade of Gaza.

Israel has imposed a crippling blockade on the Gaza Strip since 2007, leaving the territory’s 2.4 million people on the verge of starvation.

Israel launched a brutal two-year offensive on Gaza in October 2023, killing more than 72,000 people, injuring over 172,000, and causing massive destruction across the besieged territory. — Bernama-Anadolu

12 organisations show support for NS ruler at mosque

12 organisations show support for NS ruler at mosque


Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir expressed his thanks after Friday prayers at the mosque in Bandar Seri Jempol

Supporters of 12 organisations showed support to the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, at a Jempol mosque. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: The Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, has expressed his appreciation for the support shown by various organisations after members of 12 organisations gathered to show support at a mosque in Jempol today.

He conveyed his gratitude when meeting supporters at the compound of the Tuanku Muhriz mosque in Bandar Seri Jempol, Bernama reported. Members of 12 non-governmental organisations were present at the mosque as a show of support and loyalty to Tuanku Muhriz.

The ruler has been at the centre of a political crisis after an undang (traditional district chieftain) was removed, leading to an attempt to depose Tuanku Muhriz as head of state. After the state government held that the move was unlawful, 14 state assemblymen said they withdrew support for the menteri besar.

The meeting with supporters came after Tuanku Muhriz, accompanied by his sons, Tunku Besar Seri Menanti Tunku Ali Redhauddin and Tunku Zain Al-’Abidin, performed solat hajat with about 1,500 congregants at the mosque.

After prayers, he presented gifts to children and attended a luncheon before receiving a memorandum from Pertubuhan Otai Reformasi Negeri Sembilan president Muhamad Kamel Yassin.

Since yesterday, several organisations have reportedly come forward to pledge their support and loyalty to Tuanku Muhriz through the submission of memoranda.

Ismail Sabri earns PhD for research on Covid-19 policy

Ismail Sabri earns PhD for research on Covid-19 policy


The former prime minister completed his PhD in political science at Universiti Utara Malaysia with his results endorsed by the university senate on April 28

Ismail Sabri Yaakob is believed to be the first former prime minister to have earned a doctorate.

PETALING JAYA: Former prime minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob has earned a doctorate in political science from Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) for research into policy models for dealing with Covid-19 as a health security threat.

Ismail, 66, a law graduate of Universiti Malaya and a former practising lawyer, is believed to be the first former prime minister to earn a PhD.

He began his doctoral studies in February 2024, with his research drawing on Malaysia’s experience with the Covid-19 global pandemic from 2020 to 2022.


During that period, he served as senior minister overseeing pandemic management. When he became prime minister from August 2021 to November 2022, his role shifted to focus on the country’s economic recovery.

The former prime minister passed his viva voce in December at the Ghazali Shafie Graduate School of Government.

UUM’s academic affairs department said in a letter today that Ismail completed his PhD in the second semester of the 2025/2026 academic session with his results endorsed by the university senate on April 28 confirming that he had fulfilled all requirements for the PhD programme.

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Congratulations

High Court halts Sky City project in Genting Highlands

High Court halts Sky City project in Genting Highlands


2 DAYS AGO
V Anbalagan


The court says the project breached hill development rules and orders six defendants to pay RM2 million in costs to Genting Malaysia Group

The High Court in Kuala Lumpur ruled that the proposed Genting Sky City project violated hill development guidelines and the National Physical Plan.

KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court here has ruled in favour of Genting Malaysia Group in its suit against the proposed Genting Sky City development, saying it contravened development guidelines and the National Physical Plan.

In delivering her judgement, Justice Aliza Sulaiman ruled that excavation works at the site posed a serious threat to the stability of a slope.

“There was no extant, valid and subsisting planning permission for the proposed project in whatsoever configuration of blocks,” she said.


Aliza also ruled that excavation works were carried out without valid earthworks approval or approved building plans.

“The project contravenes the guidelines on development planning in hills and highland and the National Physical Plan,” she said.

She also ruled that the main road in Genting Highlands is a private road and granted an injunction stopping further excavation works.

The suit was filed in 2020 by Genting Highlands Bhd, Genting Malaysia Bhd and First World Hotels & Resorts Sdn Bhd against developer GM Aero Support Sdn Bhd, contractor Sycal Bhd, consultant engineer Lau Yee Sum, structural engineering firm Perunding Rekacekap Sdn Bhd, architect Lee Yong Chiew and town planner Zahiruddin Zainal.

Sycal is a subsidiary of Main Market-listed Sycal Ventures Bhd.

The court also dismissed a counterclaim filed by the six defendants and ordered them to pay RM2 million in costs after a 76-day trial that began in 2022.

The plaintiffs in the suit had claimed that the project was located on steep hill slopes, which could destabilise land in the surrounding area and result in damage to the existing developments in its proximity.

The group said the Genting Sky City project violates the Guidelines on Development Planning in Hills and Highlands, as a substantial part of the landscape is a steep hillside with slopes at a gradient ranging from 25° to 35° or more, where development is prohibited.

It said the development proposed to be built on class 3 and class 4 slopes near First World Hotels & Resorts raised the risk of landslides, structural damage and possible building collapse.

The plaintiffs also said excavation, piling and slope-cutting works had already begun around November 2019 despite the lack of valid approvals from the Bentong Municipal Council under the Town and Country Planning Act 1976 and the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974.

Lawyers Teh Eng Lay, Andy Gan, Lucas Chong, and Bryan Yau appeared for the plaintiffs, while counsel B Thangaraj, Wong Li Wei and Tan Jia Shen acted for the defendants.

10 Malaysians in flotilla freed, going to Istanbul

10 Malaysians in flotilla freed, going to Istanbul


They accepted a Turkish government offer of seats on a 160-seat aircraft taking Turkish activists home

The Malaysian activists were detained in international waters near the Greek island of Crete on Thursday and were released at the port of Lerapetra in Crete. (AFP pic)

KUALA LUMPUR: Ten Malaysians with the Global Sumud Flotilla who were detained in international waters near the Greek island of Crete on Thursday have been released and are expected to be flown to Turkey.

The director-general of the Sumud Nusantara command centre, Sani Araby Abdul Alim Araby, said the 10 were among 175 humanitarian activists from the flotilla who were transported to Heraklion airport in buses provided by the Greek authorities.

Sani said the 10 released Malaysian activists have accepted a Turkish government offer of seats on a 160-seat aircraft which will repatriate 20 Turkish citizens.


“The flight is expected to arrive at Istanbul international airport at 11.45pm Malaysian time,” he said at a press conference here tonight.

Sani Araby said the centre had received reports that the activists faced provocation and physical attacks during their detention in uncomfortable conditions, leading to violent incidents that resulted in injuries to several participants.

Two members of the flotilla’s main steering committee, Saif Abukeshek and Thiago Avila, remained in Israeli custody, believed to be an attempt to threaten and cripple the mission.

Sani Araby said the centre has been in contact with the foreign ministry to coordinate travel arrangements for the Malaysian activists. “Three of our representatives are already in Istanbul for management and assessment,” he said.

The decision on whether the activists will continue their mission or return home depends on their health status and the current consensus between the centre and the flotilla, he said.

The Global Sumud Flotilla is an international maritime coalition and global movement committed to breaking the blockade on Gaza.

Greek Orthodox Church sounds alarm over attacks on Christians in Jerusalem

Greek Orthodox Church sounds alarm over attacks on Christians in Jerusalem

Warning follows Jewish man’s arrest over brutal attack in which a nun was pushed and kicked in Jerusalem this week

Christian worshippers mark Palm Sunday in Jerusalem's Old City [File: Ammar Awad/Reuters]

By Al Jazeera Staff, AFP and Reuters
Published On 1 May 2026

The head of a Greek Orthodox Church in Jerusalem has condemned a brutal attack on a nun in the city earlier in the week and warned of growing concerns over the future for Christians living in the Holy Land.

Archbishop Atallah Hanna said on Facebook that “the attack on a nun in the city of Jerusalem comes amid escalating violations against Christian institutions in the city”.

He added that “this reflects increasing concerns about the future of the historic Christian presence in the Holy Land”.

In his post, which was accompanied by a video, he warned that such attacks “are no longer isolated incidents, but part of a recurring pattern that threatens the Christian presence,” calling for international action to stop them.

On Thursday, Israeli police released a video showing what witnesses said was an attack by a Jewish man on a French nun in Jerusalem on Tuesday.

Video footage showed the man following the nun, forcibly pushing her to the ground, causing an injury to her head, then briefly walking away before returning to kick her as she lay on the ground, before bystanders intervened.



Israeli police arrest suspect behind assault on Christian nun in Jerusalem



Who profits big from the war on Iran?


According to The Times of Israel, police said they had arrested a Jewish man suspected of assaulting the nun in Jerusalem.

“The suspect, a 36-year-old male, was identified and subsequently arrested by police,” the police said in a statement on Wednesday, adding it viewed with “utmost severity” any violent act “driven by potentially racist motives and directed toward members of the clergy”.

Father Olivier Poquillon, director of Jerusalem’s French School of Biblical and Archaeological Research, told the AFP news agency the 48-year-old nun is a researcher at the institution and did not wish to speak publicly.


Rising attacks on Christians

Attacks on Christian communities in occupied East Jerusalem and Israel have risen in recent years, according to the Rossing Center for Education and Dialogue, which tracks such incidents.

Churches in Jerusalem have repeatedly called on Israeli authorities to act decisively to put a stop to them.

On Tuesday, Israel’s Foreign Ministry called the incident a “shameful act” in a statement on X.

“In a city sacred to Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike, we remain committed to protecting all communities and ensuring those responsible for violence are held accountable,” the ministry added.

Last month, a viral photograph showing an Israeli soldier smashing a statue of Jesus Christ in southern Lebanon with a sledgehammer caused outrage.

The military said an investigation had been opened and that “appropriate measures will be taken against those involved in accordance with the findings”.

Israel later said the soldier had been jailed for 30 days, along with another soldier who had been filming him. Six other soldiers have been summoned for questioning.



Israeli soldiers jailed for destroying Jesus statue in Lebanon

“If it’s against your beliefs, don’t attend” – Tourism Minister Rebukes Critics of KL Rain Rave Water Festival

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“If it’s against your beliefs, don’t attend” – Tourism Minister Rebukes Critics of KL Rain Rave Water Festival


1 May 2026 • 1:06 PM MYT

WORLD OF BUZZ

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The post “If it’s against your beliefs, don’t attend” – Tourism Minister Rebukes Critics of KL Rain Rave Water Festival appeared first on WORLD OF BUZZ.


The Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), Tiong King Sing, has called on all parties not to politicise the Rain Rave Water Music Festival, which runs from 30 April to 2 May.

Speaking at a press conference after officiating the Rain Rave Water Music Festival 2026 in the capital, Tiong stressed that events aimed at boosting tourism and the economy should not be subject to political maneuvering.







“How will the economy develop if everything is politicised?”

He added that the festival provides significant opportunities for local vendors, particularly food sellers, to increase their income. He encouraged the public to engage directly with traders to better understand the economic benefits of such events.


Tiong explained that the festival was organised in conjunction with the Labour Day public holiday, allowing workers to relax and unwind after their daily routines.



“It’s not Songkran, just water-concept”

Addressing comparisons to regional traditions, he dismissed claims that the event resembles Thailand’s Songkran celebration, clarifying that Rain Rave is simply a music festival with a water-based concept.


“Our programme is not Songkran. It’s just a music festival with water elements. People may see water and assume it’s Songkran,” he said.


Religious sensitivity and public safety

The MOTAC Minister welcomed anyone interested in attending the festival while emphasising the importance of respecting Malaysia’s religious diversity.

“Those who feel comfortable attending are welcome. If your beliefs do not permit it, then you should not attend,” he added, as reported by Harian Metro.

He also assured the public that stringent safety measures are in place, with police present at the venue to maintain order. The government, he stated, will not compromise on illegal activities, including drug abuse or alcohol-related offences.

Tiong confirmed that he has instructed enforcement authorities to carry out their duties strictly; if anyone is found using drugs or engaging in unlawful acts, immediate action will be taken.

Tiong reiterated that the event is organised for the general public and that the safety of both tourists and local attendees remains a top priority.

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Best message from the best minister we have, to wit, keep the frig away if the festival is against your beliefs, just like a non-halal certified restaurant.