Siti Kasim, Zaid join Ramkarpal to give 3-0 verdict DAP state rep not ‘derhaka’ to Selangor ruler

Siti Kasim, Zaid join Ramkarpal to give 3-0 verdict DAP state rep not ‘derhaka’ to Selangor ruler

SERI Kembangan state assemblywoman Wong Siew Ki who has come under heavy fire by the rightist fraternity has not been disloyal a.k.a. derhaka to Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah by championing a modern and innovative pig rearing industry in Selangor.


Such is the stance of human rights activist and lawyer Siti Kasim and former de facto law minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim who contended that the DAP state representative was only raising a matter of public interest coupled with the fact that “a decree is not the law” as Malaysia practices constitutional monarchy.
Malacca Security Analysis

The duo who are likely to face backlash from their rightist brethren effectively join fellow legal eagle and DAP lawmaker Ramkarpal Singh who, too, fell that the call for Wong to leave the state or be suspended from the state assembly for up to 12 months “will create a dangerous precedent in silencing elected representatives”.

“No doubt, the Sultan of Selangor did call for an end to pig farming in the state, citing its environmental impact and Selangor’s demographic make-up which is respected,” argued the former deputy minister of law and institutional reform and Bukit Gelugor MP in a media statement.

“Wong’s proposal, however, doesn’t, in any way, disrespect this but instead, offers constructive alternative solutions to the issue which should not be dismissed outright for the reasons stated above.”

Editor’s Note: Selangor PAS Youth chief Mohamed Sukri Omar who wanted Wong to be suspended from the Selangor state assembly for being ‘derhaka’ has yesterday (April 24) submitted a memorandum of objection against the latter in front of the Seri Kembangan Community Service Centre.

Mohamed Sukri Omar

on Friday

Serahan Memorandum Bantahan terhadap ADN Seri Kembangan di hadapan Pusat Khidmat Masyarakat ADN Seri Kembangan.

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Respect has limit

Concurring with Ramkarpal, Siti Kasim chastised the rightist fraternity for “immediately spinning the issue into one of derhaka to the Sultan” when an elected representative spoke about the management of an industry that does exist.

“This is not about pigs. This is about silencing voices they don’t like. This is not a matter of principle. This is political manipulation,” fumed the Orang Asli advocate in a Facebook post.

Siti Kasim

on Friday

ISU PENTERNAKAN BABI DI SELANGOR

Sekarang semua benda jadi “derhaka”.
Bila tak mampu jawab hujah, jerit “derhaka”.

...See more

 — with Siti Kasim.

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“Pig farming exists as an industry. It involves economics, public health and management. Issues like this need clear policies – not emotions. But some parties are more comfortable playing with religious and emotional sentiments than discussing real solutions.”

Delving further, Siti Kasim drew a line to how respect should be accorded to Sultan Sharafuddin’s decree in February for Selangor to resort to pork import to meet local demand, hence rejecting outright the proposed large-scale centralised pig farming project in Bukit Tagar, Hulu Selangor.

Siti Kasim


Respect the Sultan – yes. But respect does not mean that all discussions must be closed. If even speaking in the House (Selangor State Assembly) is considered wrong, what is the point of having a wakil rakyat?

Discuss policies. Not sentiments. If everything is labelled derhaka, in the end there is nothing to discuss.

Today we’ve this issue. Tomorrow could be whatever they (rightists) disagree with. The country cannot move forward with the politics of fear. Enough of this drama.


Elsewhere, Zaid asserted that “a decree is not the law but merely the language of the Istana (palace) when they give their advice”.

“We aren’t a country governed by Kings of yesteryear. We are a constitutional monarchy,” reminded the opposition-slant UMNO member.

Datuk Zaid Ibrahim

on Thursday

Assemblyman Wong from Selangor rose to speak on pig farming. Suddenly, mayhem erupted, and one assemblyman from PN tried to refer him to the Privileges Committee

What did Wong do wrong? According to Dr Afifudfin, another assemblyman its treason to talk about pig farming since the Sultan had already issued a decree on the subject

My goodness, what has happened to our politicians? A decree is not the law. That’s the language of the Istana when they give their advice. We are no...

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“Any assemblymember can raise any issue of public interest and they must not be stopped from performing their duties. As pig farming involves a livelihood, you can’t just close it down without exploring all options.” – April 25, 2026

Rafizi claims DAP 'subcontracted' youth wing to ensure party attendance at Azam rally

Rafizi claims DAP 'subcontracted' youth wing to ensure party attendance at Azam rally

Zarrah Morden
Published: Apr 25, 2026 5:00 PM
Updated: 7:36 PM


Former economy minister Rafizi Ramli speculated that DAP leadership may have "subcontracted" its youth wing to ensure that the party is represented at the rally against MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki.

Rafizi explained that the political reality is that DAP leaders such as Transport Minister Anthony Loke and Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo will find it challenging to make public statements on the matter.

This is in light of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's public support of Azam, whom the former has praised for his purported bravery against corruption.

"It is difficult for senior leaders like Loke or Gobind to speak out because they are members of the cabinet and the Pakatan Harapan presidential council; they would be questioned as to why they haven't raised the matter directly with Anwar.

"Therefore, it would be easier to subcontract this to DAP Youth so that at least DAP is there (at the rally), and the same goes for MCA.

"This means that they (DAP and MCA) have accepted - regardless of whether the rally is lacklustre or not and how many people attend it - that this is not a small issue, especially to Chinese voters," the former PKR deputy president said on the latest episode of his "Yang Berhenti Menteri" podcast last night.

Rafizi noted that this is the first rally that has united the two traditional rivals, underscoring his belief that both parties acknowledge the severity of the issue.

In a statement today, Gobind urged newly appointed MACC chief commissioner Abdul Halim Aman to scrutinise the "corporate mafia" scandal as well as Azam's shareholding.

The Damansara MP said Halim must outline his vision for the commission and present a clear roadmap of the specific reforms he intends to implement to safeguard the MACC’s independence and prevent future abuses of power.

Gobind said this is important to restore public confidence in the anti-graft agency, which has found itself shrouded in power abuse and misconduct allegations.

In December, after a crushing defeat in the Sabah election, Loke vowed that DAP would reassess its role in the government if Anwar failed to deliver meaningful reforms within six months.


On Thursday, the youth wings of DAP and MCA confirmed their attendance at the Tangkap Azam Baki” rally scheduled for this evening in Kuala Lumpur, but neither could resist taking jabs at each other.

DAP condemned MCA for its "blatant hypocrisy" while MCA Youth urged Harapan to honour its reform pledges.

No support from political bloc

Commenting further, Rafizi said that this is the first major rally to not receive support from any political bloc.

He claimed that PKR has been the most aggressive in attacking the rally, interpreting this as a sign that the party views it as "something dangerous".

He further highlighted Harapan's inaction over Azam, adding that those within the coalition who praise him now are the same people who had "cursed" him prior to forming the government.

Due to this, coupled with the silence from BN and the opposition coalition Perikatan Nasional, Rafizi said that the rally is already an achievement for forcing the issue into the public eye.

Last week, electoral watchdog Bersih said it is anticipating a larger crowd for the rally compared to previous gatherings as Azam has gained increasing public attention over recent controversies, including his share ownership and alleged misconduct linked to a “corporate mafia”.


Rafizi sympathises with Nurul Izzah

Rafizi also spoke about Nurul Izzah Anwar, expressing sympathy for his successor as the current PKR deputy president.

It began with her announcement that she was running for the post that Rafizi had held at the time - a decision the latter said had angered many party members.

The issue was compounded by her having to balance the dual duties of being the deputy president to the prime minister, her father, while managing the party's internal affairs, Rafizi said.

Then she was entrusted with leading the party's strategy for the Sabah election, a role that she had never taken on before, he added.

Nurul Izzah Anwar


Nurul Izzah was one of two directors for the state election in November, which saw PKR lose all but one of the 13 seats it contested.

Rafizi opined that the disastrous results must have been demoralising for her, as she also had to field vicious comments from Malaysians online about the party's performance.

At the same time, Rafizi said other corruption-related issues involving individuals linked to PKR had begun to surface, citing Anwar’s former aide Farhash Wafa Salvador Rizal Mubarak as an example.

On top of that, Rafizi said Nurul Izzah cannot afford to undermine her father's leadership of the party by speaking up on controversial issues, such as Azam.

"She has cornered herself and the party has allowed it to happen, causing Nurul Izzah, who is a big asset to the party, to now struggle in this difficult situation," he lamented.

He warned that the issue could spread beyond internal friction to affect public perception of the party, leading voters to believe that PKR could no longer be a viable option in the next election.

The Tangkap Azam Baki secretariat had launched the rally to push for a comprehensive investigation into Azam’s share ownership and alleged misconduct linked to a “corporate mafia”, claiming that Anwar and the government have yet to provide a full explanation.

In February, Bloomberg and Malaysiakini reported that Azam possessed shares in excess of public service rules.

Subsequently, Bloomberg published another report alleging that senior MACC officers had colluded with private individuals to stage corporate takeover of rivals, with Azam’s alleged awareness and support - claims which Azam has since denied.

Loke lambasts Kelantan lawmakers for ‘irresponsible’ Mat Motor convoy through Kota Bharu airport, orders roadblocks

Loke lambasts Kelantan lawmakers for ‘irresponsible’ Mat Motor convoy through Kota Bharu airport, orders roadblocks



A poster for the “Mat Motor” convoy in Kota Bharu, Kelantan. — Anthony Loke/Facebook pic

Saturday, 25 Apr 2026 2:40 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, April 25 — Transport Minister Anthony Loke has condemned several Kelantan assemblymen for organising a “Mat Motor” convoy to the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport in Kota Bharu, labelling the act as "highly irresponsible" and a potential threat to public safety and airport operations.

The minister said he has directed the Road Transport Department (JPJ) to set up roadblocks in cooperation with traffic police to inspect all motorcycles entering the airport area this evening.

In a statement today, Loke questioned the decision to hold a large motorcycle convoy in a strategic and security-sensitive zone like an airport, which must be kept clear to ensure smooth passenger travel.

“Should any congestion occur that causes passengers to miss their flights, will the organisers be responsible for compensating their flight tickets?” he asked pointedly.


Loke also questioned whether the organisers had obtained the necessary approvals from the relevant authorities for the convoy.


To ensure public safety and the smooth operation of the airport, he has ordered enforcement action to be taken without exception.

“I have directed JPJ to cooperate with the traffic police to set up roadblocks this evening and to inspect all motorcycles entering the Airport area this evening without exception, including any member of the State Legislative Assembly riding a motorcycle,” he said.


A poster for the event states that it will begin at 5pm today, going from Kota Lama to the Aeon Mall, going through the airport and city in between.

Police cripple RM1.8m diesel smuggling syndicate in Shah Alam, Sungai Buloh

Police cripple RM1.8m diesel smuggling syndicate in Shah Alam, Sungai Buloh



Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has taken a firm stance on diesel-related issues, including subsidy leakage, smuggling and misuse of subsidised fuel. — Picture by Sayuti Zainudin

Saturday, 25 Apr 2026 2:28 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, April 25 — Police have dismantled a subsidised diesel smuggling syndicate with the arrest of eight individuals in Ops Taring Bravo 1 at three factories in Shah Alam and Sungai Buloh, yesterday.

Wildlife Crime Bureau/Intelligence and Special Investigation (WCB/PSK) commander Datuk Mohd Zaki Ashar said 124,950 litres of subsidised diesel worth RM645,632 were seized during the 3.50 pm raid.

He said the eight individuals arrested comprised six locals and two foreigners, aged between 27 and 56, who played various roles, namely security guard, factory supervisor, manager, storekeeper, workers, as well as tanker lorry attendant and driver.

“The syndicate carried out subsidised diesel diversion activities in a sophisticated and organised manner by manipulating the supply chain to reap substantial profits.


“More concerning is that the syndicate also operated aggressively by reselling the diesel into the industrial market at significantly higher prices,” he said in a statement today.


Mohd Zaki said the syndicate, active since early this year, collected subsidised diesel in stages around Selangor before smuggling it out in bulk for sale at RM4 per litre in 5,000-litre quantities to third parties acting as collection and storage centres.

He added that the diesel was then resold and distributed daily in volumes of 5,000 to 6,000 litres at between RM4.80 and RM5.00 per litre to several industrial and construction companies in the Klang Valley.


“The operation, which also involved the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) and Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ), led to the seizure of two tanker lorries, 10 intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), six pump machines with hoses and 12 skid tanks, bringing the total value of seizures to RM1,827,712,” he said.

Mohd Zaki said all seized items, suspects and confiscated subsidised diesel have been handed over to the Selangor Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) for further investigation under Section 21 of the Control of Supplies Act 1961.

He said the two foreign nationals arrested were handed over to the Sungai Buloh Police headquarters for further investigation under the Immigration Act 1959/63 and Regulation 39(b) of the Immigration Regulations 1963. — Bernama

Guan Eng backs Selangor DAP rep over pig farming row, accuses PAS of ‘double standards’

Guan Eng backs Selangor DAP rep over pig farming row, accuses PAS of ‘double standards’



DAP national chairman Lim Guan Eng attends the 18th DAP National Congress at the Ideal Convention Centre in Shah Alam on March 16, 2025. — Picture by Firdaus Latif

Saturday, 25 Apr 2026 12:14 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, April 25 — DAP advisor Lim Guan Eng has responded to critics of Seri Kembangan assemblyman Wong Siew Ki, accusing PAS of applying “double standards” for labelling her “treasonous” over her suggestion to review state pig farming policies.

In a statement today, the Bagan MP argued that Wong was exercising her right as an elected representative in the Selangor state assembly, and had not lied or misled the legislature.

He contrasted Wong’s actions with those of a former PAS minister who was reprimanded by the Yang diPertuan Agong in 2021 for misleading Parliament over the revocation of Emergency Ordinances.

Lim questioned why PAS had not taken action against its own minister but was now targeting Wong, before suggesting that her age and gender could be the reasons.

“If PAS is consistent and responsible, they should have taken action against the PAS minister who was reprimanded by the King,” Lim said.

He also expressed regret that Umno had joined PAS in criticising Wong.

The criticism against Wong is based on the Sultan of Selangor’s express disagreement with pig farming activities in the state.

Today, Lim added that Wong has the full support of DAP and the public for carrying out her duties as an elected representative, saying she was right not to back down despite facing threats and protests.

On July 26, 2021, Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan, then the law minister, had announced in Parliament that six EOs from the Covid pandemic had been revoked effective July 21, following a Cabinet meeting.

Three days later, the Agong at the time expressed that he was "deeply saddened" by the announcement, saying it was "not accurate" and had confused Parliament as he had not yet given royal assent to the revocation.

Transport minister confirms MTEN to study lowering road tax for non-subsidised diesel owners

Transport minister confirms MTEN to study lowering road tax for non-subsidised diesel owners



Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook speaks to reporters during the 80th Road Transport Day celebration at the Penang State Stadium in Batu Kawan on April 25, 2026. — Bernama pic

Saturday, 25 Apr 2026 2:48 PM MYT


BATU KAWAN, April 25 — The Ministry of Transport has officially submitted a proposal to the National Economic Action Council (MTEN) to study a reduction in road tax for diesel vehicles, Transport Minister Anthony Loke confirmed today.

The move follows an instruction from the prime minister and is part of the government's effort to explore a more comprehensive approach to ease the financial burden on diesel vehicle owners who are not covered by existing subsidy schemes, Bernama reported.

Speaking at the 80th-anniversary celebration of the Road Transport Department (JPJ) here, Loke explained that while diesel prices are now set on a floating basis to curb smuggling, the government is looking for other ways to assist those affected.

“To assist diesel vehicle owners who do not receive any assistance or subsidies, we will look at how to help them in terms of reducing road tax,” he said.


Loke noted that the government already has targeted subsidy programmes in place, such as the individual BUDI Diesel scheme which provides up to RM400 per month, and the fleet card system for commercial vehicles like buses and lorries.


The proposed road tax reduction is aimed at those who fall outside these categories.

He added that further studies are underway to assess the implications of the proposal, including the appropriate rate of reduction and its impact on government revenue. An announcement is expected in the near future.


Earlier at the same event, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that he had asked the Ministry of Transport to identify a suitable mechanism for the reduction, acknowledging the impact of the diesel price increase on certain users.

The anniversary celebration also saw the launch of a new version of the MyJPJ smart application and the appointment of national songstress Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza Tarudin as a Road Safety Icon.

RM2.3m for the car, RM0 for road tax: Lamborghini Revuelto ends up in Perlis JPJ impound

RM2.3m for the car, RM0 for road tax: Lamborghini Revuelto ends up in Perlis JPJ impound



A Lamborghini Revuelto is pictured outside the Perlis Road Transport Department (JPJ) yard. — Perlis JPJ pic

Saturday, 25 Apr 2026 8:43 AM MYT


ARAU, April 25 — The Perlis Road Transport Department (JPJ) has seized a Lamborghini Revuelto, estimated to be worth RM2.3 million, after discovering its road tax had expired and it had no insurance coverage.

The Revuelto is a mid‑engine plug‑in‑hybrid supercar that pairs a 6.5‑litre naturally aspirated V12 with three electric motors to deliver around 1,001–1,015 horsepower, a 0–100 km/h time of about 2.5 seconds and a top speed over 350 km/h.

Its annual road tax is approximately RM17,873 per year in Peninsular Malaysia.

The luxury vehicle was stopped during a routine operation along the Kuala Perlis-Changlun road recently.


In a statement yesterday, the Perlis JPJ said the seizure was carried out under the Road Transport Act 1987.


The department said that the failure of luxury vehicle owners to pay their motor vehicle licence (MVL), or commonly called the road tax, results in significant revenue leakage for the government due to the high value of these licences.

This seizure is not an isolated incident. From January to date, Perlis JPJ has already seized a total of six luxury vehicles for similar offences.


The department issued a stern reminder to all vehicle owners that driving without valid road tax and insurance is a serious offence that endangers other road users.

“JPJ Perlis wishes to remind the public that failure to renew road tax and insurance is a serious offence that not only violates legal provisions but may also endanger the safety of other road users,” the statement read.

Authorities urged the public to comply with all regulations and not wait for enforcement action to be taken.

Members of the public who wish to lodge traffic complaints can do so through official JPJ channels, including the e-Aduan feature on the MyJPJ app.

Spain is ‘reliable’ Nato member, PM says after reported US ouster threat

Spain is ‘reliable’ Nato member, PM says after reported US ouster threat



Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez gestures upon his arrival ahead of an informal meeting of the European Council, in Ayia Napa April 23, 2026. — AFP pic

Saturday, 25 Apr 2026 10:27 AM MYT


NICOSIA (Cyprus), April 25 — Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez yesterday stressed Spain was a “reliable member” of Nato, after a report the United States was considering trying to suspend it over its refusal to support military operations against Iran.


The Reuters news agency cited an anonymous US official as telling it that the Pentagon had outlined the suspension option in an email looking at ways to punish Nato allies that steered clear of the US-Israeli war against Iran.


The same email also suggested the United States could review its position on the Falkland Islands in retaliation for UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s lack of support in the war.

“Spain is a reliable member within Nato” which is fulfilling all its obligations, Sanchez told reporters in English during a visit to Cyprus for an EU summit.


“As a result, I am absolutely not worried,” he said.


The Socialist leader added in Spanish: “We don’t work on the basis of emails, we work off official documents and the position that the United States government has set out in this case.”

There is no provision in the Nato treaty allowing for the suspension or expulsion of a member of the world’s most powerful military alliance.


Responding to a question about the Reuters report, Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson said the Defence Department “will ensure that the president has credible options to ensure that our allies are no longer a paper tiger and instead do their part,” but did not provide further details.

‘Nato must remain united’

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly railed against Nato allies for refusing to join the war that engulfed the Middle East, saying he viewed it as a betrayal.

Some of them — France, Spain and Italy — did not allow US military aircraft deployed for the war to overfly their territories or to use bases.

A US State Department spokesman told AFP yesterday that Washington remained neutral on the issue of contested sovereignty of the Falkland Islands, the South Atlantic archipelago disputed between Argentina and the United Kingdom.

“Our position on The Islands remains one of neutrality. We acknowledge that there are conflicting claims of sovereignty between Argentina and the UK,” the spokesman said, adding that the US recognizes “de facto United Kingdom administration” of the islands without taking sides on sovereignty claims.

Trump had also tried, in vain, to get European Nato members to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz, the key waterway for Gulf energy exports, which Iran has effectively closed with military threats and attacks.

Washington’s expectation that Nato members’ facilities and territories should be available to the United States without question has added to strains within the alliance.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni told reporters in Cyprus that “Nato must remain united. I believe it is a source of strength.”

Sanchez said his government’s stance was “absolute cooperation with allies, but always within the bounds of international law”.

Sanchez has repeatedly found himself in Trump’s crosshairs since the Republican president returned to office in January 2025.

Last year, he refused to agree to ramp up Nato defence spending to 5 per cent of GDP as demanded by Trump, who then suggested expelling Spain from the alliance.

Sanchez condemned the US military intervention in Venezuela on January 3 that captured the South American country’s strongman socialist president Nicolas Maduro and is a virulent critic of Washington’s ally Israel.

Nato is to hold its next summit in Turkey on July 7-8. — AFP

New MACC Boss

What we know about new MACC chief Abdul Halim Aman

April 25, 2026 @ 1:09pm

Datuk Seri Abdul Halim Aman, a former High Court judge with nearly two decades of judicial experience and a long career in the legal service, has been appointed as the new Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner. - File pic



KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Abdul Halim Aman, a former High Court judge with nearly two decades of judicial experience and a long career in the legal service, has been appointed the new Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner.

His appointment, announced on Friday, takes effect on May 13 following the end of Tan Sri Azam Baki's contract.


Born on March 10, 1957, in Kampung Alai, Malacca, Halim obtained his LLB (Hons) from the Universiti Malaya in 1982 and later completed his LLM at the University of Hull, United Kingdom in 1996.


According to the Malaysia Judiciary Yearbook 2023, he began his career in the Judicial and Legal Service in 1982, serving in various capacities over 22 years, including Federal Counsel at the Attorney General's Chambers, magistrate posts in Kluang and Muar, senior assistant registrar at the Malacca High Court, and Sessions Court judge in multiple locations including Tawau, Sandakan, Kuala Lumpur, George Town and Ampang.

He also served as Senior Federal Counsel with the Inland Revenue Board and the Attorney General's Chambers, as well as Pahang State Legal Adviser, deputy public prosecutor, and Head of the Research Division at the Office of the Chief Justice.


In 2005, he was appointed Judicial Commissioner at the Temerloh High Court before being transferred to Kuantan in 2006.


He was elevated to High Court Judge in 2007.

He later served at the Penang High Court (2009) and Johor Baru High Court (2010) before his long tenure at the Shah Alam High Court from 2013 until his mandatory retirement in March 2023.


During his time in Shah Alam, he presided over several high-profile criminal cases that drew public attention.

Among them was the 2015 murder trial involving a TV9 administrator, where he acquitted the accused after ruling that the prosecution's investigation and forensic evidence were inadequate, stressing the importance of proper investigative procedures.

In 2019, he sentenced three people to death in the Klang "body-less" murder case, describing the crime as "vicious, brutal and inhumane."

That same year, he rejected an appeal by preacher Wan Ji Wan Hussin in a sedition case involving comments on the Sultan of Selangor, and enhanced the sentence to one year in prison, citing loyalty to the Rukun Negara principle of allegiance to the Ruler.

In 2021, he sentenced a babysitter's husband to death for the murder of an 11-month-old infant, describing the act as "heartless and inhumane."

Iran has other weapons not resorted to yet

Murray Hunter
Apr 24, 2026


Iran has other weapons not resorted to yet

Iran does have surprises install should attacks resume





As there are ominous signs that US-Israeli aggression against Iran will once again revert to kinetic warfare, Iranian spokesmen have repeatedly said that they still have new and more powerful weapons in reserve.

Back in March, the IRGC spokesman Ali Mohammad Naeini outlined that Iran is using its older missiles and drones, as the nation is prepared for a six-month long war with the United States and Israel. Iranian’s defense ministry spokesman Reza Talaei-Nik with a long war expected against the US and Israel, Iran has not yet deployed its most advanced weapons and equipment.

Talk coming from Iran is not just about newer generations of existing weapons, but new weapons that haven’t yet been seen yet.

One of these systems is a range of new electromagnetic pulse (EMP) weapon systems, which include cluster-bombs that fit on existing Iranian missile systems. Such systems are able to disable US military command communications, radar systems, and industrial infrastructure within Israel and the gulf states. These systems can also disable modern US military equipment including the F-35A fighter jets.

Iran has been researching and developing such weapons for decades, and is a leading scientific research nation in the field. An interview with Mohammad-Hossein Azimi, secretary-general of the Islamic Iran Front in 2025 claimed that EMP missiles capable of disabling electrical devices over a 200km radius are already in reserve. In 2024, it was alleged that the IRGC has supplied Hezbollah forces in Lebanon with missiles carrying EMP warheads to disrupt Israeli radars, communications, and power grids.

These systems have been developed indigenously at Islam Azad University, with assistance from allies including China and North Korea. Iran has been colluding with North Korea on weapon design and development for years now. Iran has developed both tactical EMP weapons that can take out enemy aircraft and missiles and strategic weapons that could destroy enemy command and control and industry. Iran may utilize such weapons along-side carbon fibre bombs to takeout electrical infrastructure, should there be a need.


Gulf power plants, water-desalination facilities which are absolutely necessary for continued human habitation, and AI infrastructure in the UAE Saudi Arabia and Qatar would be potential targets alongside US military facilities. EMP weapons could bring Israeli industry and military to a standstill.

A major potential use for EMP weapons would be to prevent any nuclear attack upon Iran. Although EMP weapons would not render useless the nuclear weapons themselves, it would render useless most of the delivery systems. With rumors circulating in western independent media that US president Trump wants to contemplate the use of nuclear weapons and the Israelis have them at the ready, EMP weapons are potentially a major Iranian protection against nuclear attack.

This is very important to Iranian miliary strategy. Any conventional attack upon Israel or US military forces would be seen as Iranian aggression. Iran has to date only acted in retaliation to attacks. Any US or Israeli nuclear attack would most probably be pre-emptive, so an EMP defense system makes sense within Iran’s strategy.

One could not discount the possibility that Iran has potential to deliver EMP weapons to US continental targets with the HWASONG-18 ICBMs it has within its arsenal. Such a non-nuclear US continental attack would bring the Iranian war to US soil in a devastating manner. Iranian objectives may not be as militarily motivated, as they may be motivated to help facilitate an end to the Trump presidency through highlighting the recklessness that Iran was attacked by the United States and Israel. Given that the original US strategy was to decapitate the Iranian political leadership, such speculation on the part of the writer is not out of bounds.

The future of the Iranian war is centered upon renewed attacks from Israel and the United States. Iran is ready to step up retaliation if the nation’s leadership sees the purpose of it. Iran has followed a restrained, yet unconventional strategy so far. The Pentagon must factor in the reality that Iran does have surprises install should attacks resume once again.


IRAN RECEIVES HWASONG -18 ICBMs from North Korea

Murray Hunter
·
8 Apr

Read full story

ZAKAT abuse is far wider than what has just been reported in the media

Murray Hunter
Apr 23, 2026


ZAKAT abuse is far wider than what has just been reported in the media

Many Muslims remain in dire poverty in Perlis while NGOs collect money in the name of Zakat, and religious department elites make lavish overseas trips





Zakat monies used to buy the best while there are poor and destitute Muslims in Perlis who dont have enough money to buy milk for their children.



Just recently, the Selangor Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) arrested Fakhruddin Abd Karim along with several other individuals, including the Deputy Chairman of the Hulu Selangor NGO IKRAM, on suspicion of involvement in the embezzlement of zakat funds amounting to approximately RM230 million.

In the operation, MACC also seized 18 luxury vehicles, including a Porsche and a Mercedes, as well as houses and properties worth approximately RM11 million and various other movable property including cash and branded watches. In addition, MACC also froze 33 bank accounts totaling approximately RM120 million.

Other reports say the MACC had been investigating this case since 2009.

Media reports have just exposed the above scandal connected to IKRAM NGOs and a handful of individuals that have been living extravagant lives through Zakat monies collection. This has been made possible where some states have been appointing NGOs as Zakat collection agents on behalf of states, where the NGOs collect large commissions.

For Perlis the NGO IKRAM is firmly part of the state’s zakat management system is seen not just as an implementer, but also in a complex position - as a collector, recipient and distributor of zakat funds, in addition to the commissions they collect. Other states have other types of agreements.

This is occurring all over Malaysia. For example, in the structure permitted by the Perlis Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPs), IKRAM is given the space to collect zakat and at the same time receive up to 50 percent of the collection to distribute itself under the category of asnaf fi sabilillah. Technically, this model is legal from a governance perspective. However, from a public trust perspective, it raises much bigger questions.

It appears that IKRAM has not only expanded its zakat collection operations through, but also developed other entities, including IKRAM Hulu Selangor, companies affiliated with Pengkalan Sutramas Sdn. Bhd. (PSSB) and Ihsan Care Berhad (ICB).


More Zakat abuses

These are the only groups Zakat can be used for:

The Poor (Al-Fuqara / Fakir): This includes people with little or no income or assets who cannot meet basic needs (food, shelter, clothing, etc.). They are in severe poverty.

The Needy (Al-Masakin / Miskin): Those who have some income or resources, but it is still insufficient to cover essential living expenses. They are not as destitute as the poor but struggle to get by.

Zakat Administrators / Collectors (Al-Amilin / Amil): People officially appointed to collect, manage, and distribute Zakat funds. A portion of Zakat can cover their salaries or operational costs.

Those Whose Hearts Are to Be Reconciled (Al-Mu’allafatu Qulubuhum / Muallaf): New Muslims (converts), potential converts, or individuals whose hearts need to be inclined toward Islam. This can include support to strengthen their faith or integration into the Muslim community.

Those in Bondage / Captives (Ar-Riqab): Traditionally for freeing slaves or captives. In modern contexts, this is often interpreted as helping those in situations of modern-day slavery, human trafficking, or severe oppression to gain freedom.

Those in Debt (Al-Gharimin / Gharimin): People burdened with debt incurred for legitimate reasons (e.g., medical emergencies, basic needs, or unavoidable circumstances) who cannot repay it without falling into hardship. Zakat can help settle such debts (not for extravagant or sinful debts).

In the Cause of Allah (Fi Sabilillah): This broad category includes efforts for the promotion and defense of Islam, such as supporting Islamic education, dawah (propagation), building or maintaining mosques/schools, jihad in a defensive/just sense (according to classical views), or community welfare projects that strengthen the faith and ummah. Interpretations vary by scholars and institutions.

The Wayfarer / Stranded Traveler (Ibn As-Sabil / Ibnu Sabil): Travelers who are cut off from their resources, stranded, or unable to continue their journey due to lack of funds. This includes emergency help for transport, food, or shelter.

While Zakat is being used for the above purposes, religious department leadership over the years has interpreted the possible uses of Zakat to include “study visits” to the MENA on so-called official visits staying at five-star hotels.





Zakat comfort for ‘religious officials’

Another use of Perlis Zakat monies is to fund a “fifth-column” within Malaysian society. Many within the Alumni are highly intelligent, articulate, well educated, well connected, and don’t necessarily disclose their true beliefs and inclinations in the interests of exerting influence over the ideas of others. This group also protects the image of the movement, and according to an inside informant, every member of the Alumni is given an allowance of RM5,000 per month, increasing over time to propagate the faith, primarily funded by Zakat and topped up with Saudi monies until this source ran dry. This is in addition to the salaries they earn in their employment.

Many professionals are members of Ikram and get their orders to operate as a clandestine network in government.

The use of Zakat has not escaped the auditor. The 2018 Auditor General’s Report has given early warning of weaknesses in the management and distribution of zakat in Perlis. So much is suspicious. The audit highlights the need for closer monitoring of the effectiveness of distribution. This raises critical questions as to how far the 60 per cent of funds returned to agents such as IKRAM actually reach the deserving beneficiaries, and to what extent are they used according to the priorities set?

The victims are Muslims in poverty

However, nothing ever happened. Muslims are being cheated out of their Zakat funds and allocated to people through sophisticated collection and allocation systems that are totally opaque. These issues are not restricted to only Perlis. There are many NGOs involved in Zakat funds over the country.

An ‘Epstein like class’ exists in Malaysia

Murray Hunter
Apr 24, 2026


An ‘Epstein like class’ exists in Malaysia



A made-up image of what some of these kampong houses that accommodate underage girls from Cambodia and Thailand may look like.



Back in November 2025, the CEO of Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings (GISB), Nasiruddin Mohd Ali and 12 other men were sentenced to 15 months in prison after pleading guilty to being members of an unlawful society under Section 43 of the Societies Act 1966. The charges related to being members of an organized criminal group which carried a 5 to 20-year sentence, were dropped after the GISB lawyers made representations to the Attorney General’s Chambers.

There was no legal mention of child sexual abuse and rape through the legal system, even though 625 victims aged between 2 and 28 years were rescued. At the time some of the 402 children were allegedly sodomised and taught to assault their peers.

At the time the discovery of this horror appalled many, but the issue has seemed to just disappear. The law enforcement and legal system just seemed to brush it all aside.

The GISB scandal was just a view of the top of a pyramid which could be termed the ‘Epstein like class’ in Malaysia.

Without mentioning names due to legal reasons, one of the most well-known Malay elites had been very much involved in bringing in underage girls from Cambodia and Thailand through a network to please a select group. These girls would be placed in houses without any windows for security. The places would be immune from any scrutiny by the authorities.

Another well known politician who shall remain nameless is involved in sponsoring Ruman Anak Yatim (orphanages). Through grooming and cultivating girls in the rumah anak yatim, a steady source of underage girls would be available to closed elite groups.

There are many people who are aware of the above happenings, but unwilling to say anything due to retribution by the authorities. The keeping of underage children for the wants and desires of a closed group of people is widespread. This doesn’t exclude the open kidnappings on Malaysian streets where the victims are sent to scam centres to work or be held ransom.

This dark side in Malaysia runs parallel to the ‘Epstein activities’ that are know well known around the world after it was exposed. These ‘Epstein’ like people are yet to be exposed in Malaysia. Very few will be surprised about who these people are.

This is what is going on in Malaysia without any interference from the authorities.

Which will break first: the IDF or the public support in Israel for Netanyahu?

 

Trump Announces Extension to Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire, While Israel Waits for Green Light in Iran

 

Donald Trump announced a three-week extension of the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire following a productive Oval Office meeting with Israeli and Lebanese representatives.

He stated the United States will work with Lebanon to protect itself from Hezbollah and expressed plans to host Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.

Israel is actively preparing to renew its war with Iran and is waiting for a U.S. green light to resume strikes.

Defense Minister Israel Katz declared the IDF ready for both defense and offense with new targets marked, stating Israel seeks to eliminate the Khamenei dynasty, destroy Iran’s major energy and power facilities, and deliver more deadly blows to collapse the regime’s foundations.

Israeli leadership anticipates possible resumption by the end of the week while intensifying intelligence efforts and restocking missiles.

GhostofBasedPatrickHenry: It looks like President Trump has succeeded in getting a pause in the Lebanese conflict, while he focuses on establishing a sustainable peace with Iran.

Israel’s pattern of attacks on Lebanese journalists—including bombing their homes—has drawn the ire of the Lebanese government, who just days ago met with Israel for the first time ever at the White House to negotiate a ceasefire and the fate of Hezbollah.

What’s funny is that after that meeting, Israeli media presented the two sides as a united front that seeks to disarm and dismantle Hezbollah—which is the more significant fighting force over the official Lebanese military.

Now the Lebanese Prime Minister is accusing Israel of war crimes, citing the pattern of the IDF’s targeting of Lebanese journalists.

President Trump’s best friend and ambassador to Turkey/Syria, Tom Barrack, said in a Fox News interview yesterday that Hezbollah cannot be annihilated through military force, given its deep integration into Lebanese society over the past several decades.

Israel has formally acknowledged what it calls the “Advanced Defense Zone,” which is a zone on the Lebanese side of the Israel-Lebanon border where the IDF says nobody is allowed. Any violators, it warns, will be shot.

At the same time, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has called for Israel to formally expand its border to include all of Palestine and parts of Lebanon and Syria. His justification is that the current borders do not offer topography that is easy to defend. So for the sake of security, entire villages will need to be erased from the map and thousands of people driven from their homeland. It is also being reported that Israel has already destroyed over 62,000 structures, including apartments and single-family homes.

Meanwhile, President Trump is beginning to rug the Zionists, as he declares that no nuclear weapons will be used. (Mark Levin and others have been calling for Trump to nuke Iran.)

Trump also reiterated that nobody will be pressuring him to put a timeline on his peace negotiations with Iran, despite Israeli media’s reporting that the Trump admin had told their counterparts in Tel Aviv that the deadline was Sunday.

There was also this clip that I found interesting. Many will listen to this and go in assuming that it is evidence of Trump’s status as an Israeli puppet.

When I listen to that, I hear President Trump feeding into the hubris of the Netanyahu regime.

At multiple times, Trump specifically says, “Israel will have to defend itself.”

It sounds, to me, that Israel is preparing to fight these wars alone, without US aid, and Trump is egging them on to continue fighting while he negotiates long-lasting peace deals with those same entities Israel seeks to destroy.

The net effect being that Israel will be fighting Iran by itself, and the rest of the world seems to realize that is going to go very poorly for the IDF, which failed to annihilate Hamas in Gaza, and now thinks it’s going to go slay the far more formidable dragon—Hezbollah—potentially without US assistance, which it had when fighting Hamas.

The question I have is which will break first: the IDF or the public support in Israel for Netanyahu?

Zakat: Lifeline for the poor or a private account?

Zakat: Lifeline for the poor or a private account?

Mariam Mokhtar
Published: Apr 24, 2026 1:10 PM
Updated: 3:18 PM



COMMENT | Every ringgit given in the name of zakat is meant to be a lifeline for the poor, but when funds linked to welfare and charitable giving are alleged to have been diverted into luxury cars, property portfolios, and private accounts, a difficult question emerges: how safe are the systems that manage public trust?

The RM230 million investigation involving public donations collected for charitable purposes has drawn significant attention.

According to the authorities, the case involves an NGO and public welfare-related funds, not official zakat institutions.

Lembaga Zakat Selangor, for example, has clearly stated that it has no connection to the investigation. The institution operates under a structured legal framework, with multiple layers of internal and external auditing.

It has reiterated that zakat funds are managed in accordance with established governance systems.

That clarification is important and must be acknowledged. However, it does not fully resolve the wider concern.

The public considers funds given in good faith, for the needy, are not always experienced in technical categories. Whether labelled zakat, donation, or welfare contribution, their expectation remains the same: that the money reaches the poor.

When trust breaks, people don't lose trust in just one small part of it. They start questioning the whole system around it.

Luxury vehicles. Frozen accounts. High-value assets. These are not abstract claims, but are symbols that immediately shape public perception of welfare-linked giving, regardless of technical distinctions.

Luxury cars seized by MACC


The damage has already been done, hasn’t it? However, the deeper issue is not this single case, nor any single institution. It is what the case reveals about the wider structure of welfare-linked fundraising and distribution.

Past allegations

Over the years, there have been occasional reports and investigations involving mismanagement within parts of the welfare and zakat-related ecosystem, including cases where allocations were disbursed to ineligible recipients or where administrative weaknesses were identified.

These cases vary in scale and context, but together, they point to a recurring challenge: ensuring consistent transparency across several layers of fund management.

Crucially, this is where the distinction becomes important.

Official zakat institutions, such as state religious authorities, operate within defined legal frameworks, undergo structured audits, and are subject to regulatory oversight.

However, the wider ecosystem of welfare-related fundraising, including NGOs, charitable intermediaries, and mixed donation channels, can be far more complex and less uniformly regulated.

When funds pass through multiple organisations before reaching recipients, each layer possibly operates under different levels of oversight. Without strong and consistent monitoring, transparency may weaken.

This creates a structural reality that is often overlooked.

It is not always about one system failing, but about multiple systems interacting with different levels of transparency and control.

So, when large sums are involved, such as RM230 million, the question naturally arises. How do funds of this scale move through welfare-linked structures without earlier detection or intervention?

This is not simply about wrongdoing. It is about system design.


Not a marginal figure

RM230 million is not a marginal figure. It is an amount that, under normal financial and governance expectations, should trigger multiple safeguards, like bank-level monitoring, organisational audits, regulatory scrutiny, and internal compliance mechanisms.

If gaps exist in that chain, then the concern is not only about misconduct, but about oversight fragmentation.

Zakat itself remains one of the most important instruments of social justice within Muslim communities.

It is a structured obligation designed to redistribute wealth, reduce inequality, and support those in need. When it functions effectively, it is stable, targeted, and quietly transformative.

However, the broader welfare ecosystem in which zakat, NGOs, and public donations co-exist is more complex.

Moreover, complexity without equivalent transparency creates vulnerability, not necessarily by intent, but it does result in oversight failure.

This is why the central issue is not classification. It is governance consistency.

The question is not whether zakat institutions are properly managed in isolation because they have stated frameworks and audit structures. It is about whether the entire ecosystem of welfare-linked giving is equally transparent, traceable, and resilient against misuse at every stage of fund movement.

When the system is fragmented, problems in one part can affect others through public perception and confusion. Once people begin to lose trust across different channels of giving, rebuilding that confidence becomes especially difficult.

This is why reform cannot be reactive or symbolic. It must be structural.

Firstly, transparency must be visible across the entire ecosystem, not just within individual institutions.

Second, fund flows must be traceable from collection to final distribution. Third, intermediary layers must be clearly regulated and audited.

Fourth, oversight must be independent, consistent, and publicly accountable.


Basic safeguards

These are not radical demands. They are basic safeguards for systems built on public trust and moral obligation.

Once trust begins to erode, recovery is slow and often incomplete.

In the meantime, those who are meant to benefit from these systems do not wait for clarification. They wait for assistance.

More importantly, the real question is no longer about one institution or one investigation. It is about whether welfare-linked and zakat-related systems are collectively designed to ensure that every ringgit reaches those it was meant for, without delay, diversion, or doubt.

If the answer is uncertain, then the responsibility is not only to investigate what has happened, but to strengthen the systems so that it cannot happen in fragmented form again.

Accountability is not criticism. It is protection. Thus, protecting zakat and the wider ecosystem of charitable trust is ultimately about protecting the people it exists to serve.

MARIAM MOKHTAR is a defender of the truth, the admiral-general of the Green Bean Army, and the president of the Perak Liberation Organisation (PLO). Blog, X.