Are We Morally Corrupt, Polarised and Poor? Who?

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Are We Morally Corrupt, Polarised and Poor? Who?


17 Jul 2026 • 8:00 AM MYT

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

WHAT HAS UMNO ACHIEVED? Source Din Merican Blog

By M.Krishnamoorthy

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


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



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


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



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


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



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


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


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



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


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

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

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

17 Jul 2026 • 10:30 AM MYT

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






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

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



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

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

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



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

“I expect very stiff competition,” he said.

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


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

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

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



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

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

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


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

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

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

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

PKR Youth urges PH to reassess ties with BN

PKR Youth urges PH to reassess ties with BN


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

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

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

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

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


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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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



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

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


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

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


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

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


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


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

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


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

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

PM Anwar: Biggest barrier to reform is resistance to change

PM Anwar: Biggest barrier to reform is resistance to change



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

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


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

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


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

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


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


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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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


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

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


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

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


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


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

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


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

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

Rizman said he has never breached this declaration.

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

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


Was it donation or bribery?

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

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

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

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

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

Rizman says Muhyiddin didn’t contact him over the project

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

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

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

Rizman: Agree.

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

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

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



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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Recommended reading:

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

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

School reputations cannot come before bullied children, says Anwar

School reputations cannot come before bullied children, says Anwar



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

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


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

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


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

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


Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek was also present.


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

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


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

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

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

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

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



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

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


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

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


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

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


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


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

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


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

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

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

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

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

 

Live updates

Live updates,

Iran war live: US kills 8 people in sixth consecutive night of strikes

By Yashraj Sharma and Priyanka Shankar

Published On 16 Jul 202616 Jul 2026

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• The United States has carried out major strikes on Iran for the sixth night in a row, killing at least eight people and wounding 20 others.
• Officials in southern Iran’s Bandar Abbas report that civilian infrastructure, including power facilities and a train station, has been hit.
• Iran’s army says it has targeted US aircraft at a military base in Bahrain, while Kuwait’s army says it is responding to missile and drone attacks. Qatar authorities say a child was injured by falling missile debris after its army thwarted incoming Iranian attacks.
• A spokesman for Iran’s military says the Strait of Hormuz will never return to its pre-war status, as US Central Command says soldiers boarded a vessel in the Gulf of Oman to enforce its blockade of Iran.

42s ago

(08:40 GMT)

Names and importance of some Iranian sites hit by US

• Bandar Khamir Bridges, located in the Hormozgan province, is a key transportation route connecting local communities. Damage to such bridges can disrupt mobility, logistics and access between coastal areas and internal parts of the country.
• Railway Infrastructure near Bandar Abbas is a critical logistics route linking the country’s main southern port gateway with inland transportation networks. It is also important for cargo movement, trade and supply chains.
• Iranshahr Airport located in the Sistan and Baluchestan province is a major regional aviation facility, supporting transportation, emergency services and connectivity in southeastern Iran.
• Chabahar Maritime Traffic Control Radar is a key aviation monitoring system responsible for airspace surveillance, flight coordination, maritime traffic and aviation safety in a strategically located coastal region.
• Sirik located in the Hormozgan province is a strategically located coastal area near the Strait of Hormuz.
• Qeshm Island, also in Hormozgan province, is strategically important and the largest island near the Strait of Hormuz with significance in maritime trade, commercial activity and overseeing the Strait of Hormuz.
• Ahvaz in Khuzestan province is one of Iran’s most important industrial centres, with major significance due to its oil, energy and economic infrastructure.
• Bushehr in Bushehr province is a key Persian Gulf coastal location with importance in maritime activity, energy infrastructure and regional connectivity.

10m ago

(08:30 GMT)

US attacks on civilian areas reveal its hypocrisy: Iran official

Ebrahim Azizi, the head of the Iranian Parliament’s National Security Committee, says the US attacks in southern Iran on residential and civilian zones “reveal the hypocrisy of those who preach ‘human rights’”.

“The proud South has always been Iran’s fortress of defence, and every Iranian’s heart beats there,” he said in a post on X.

“To the enemies of this resistant and victorious nation: The Armed Forces will not let the blood of the innocent go [unavenged],” he added.

• 25m ago

  (08:15 GMT)

  

  IRGC says it targeted US jets in Jordan

  Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps say they have targeted US fighter jets stationed in Jordan, Iranian State TV reports.

  Earlier, the Jordanian army had said that it shot down three Iranian missiles targeting the country.
• 30m ago

  (08:10 GMT)

  What do we know about Iran’s attacks across the Gulf region?

  • Iran’s army has said it targeted US helicopters and reconnaissance aircraft at the Sakhir airbase in Bahrain, according to a report from the country’s semi official Tasnim news agency.
  • Qatar’s Interior Ministry has said that a child was injured by falling shrapnel as Qatari forces intercepted several air attacks from Iran.
  • Iran’s army has said it targeted US military deployment sites and logistical support centres in Kuwait with drones. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) also said it struck a US missile defence radar, several key weapons depots and two HIMARS surface-to-surface missile launchers in the country.
  • The IRGC said it has attacked a US special operations command centre at the al-Tanf military base in Syria, according to a Tasnim news agency report.
  • The IRGC has also claimed to have destroyed a US air control radar in Oman’s Ghanim region and a maritime control radar on rocks in the Strait of Hormuz, in waters dividing Iran and Oman.

Social media influencer pleads not guilty to rape of 14-year-old girl in Kangar

Social media influencer pleads not guilty to rape of 14-year-old girl in Kangar



A 23-year-old social media influencer appears at the Sessions Court in Kangar, where he pleaded not guilty to a charge of raping a 14-year-old girl. — Bernama pic

First Published: Friday, 17 Jul 2026 1:55 PM MYT


KANGAR, July 17 — A social media influencer pleaded not guilty at the Sessions Court here today to raping a girl aged 14 years and 10 months, at a house in Jalan Tiong, Taman Kangar on June 17.

Muhammad Iman Hazriq Azizan, 23, made the plea after the charge against him was read out before Judge Sharifah Norazlita Syed Salim Idid.


The charge was framed under Section 376 (1) of the Penal Code, which carries a jail term of between 10 and 30 years, and whipping, upon conviction.

The court allowed bail at RM13,000 with one surety, subject to the accused reporting to the nearest police station monthly and not contacting the victim or prosecution witnesses until the case is concluded.


The court fixed August 14 for mention of the case, with Deputy Public Prosecutor Nabilah Ahmad Poad appearing for the prosecution, while the accused was unrepresented. — Bernama

***

He may yet have a chance - if the judge considers he has a "BRIGHT" future the case may be ruled as 'consensual sex' even if the girl is only 14 years old - there is a PRECEDENCE for this - 'stare decisis' lah, wakakaka

Man allegedly attacked with sharp weapon while waiting for bus near university in Wangsa Maju

Man allegedly attacked with sharp weapon while waiting for bus near university in Wangsa Maju



Police are investigating after a man was allegedly attacked with a sharp weapon while waiting for a bus near a university in Wangsa Maju. — Photo by Raymond Manuel

First Published: Friday, 17 Jul 2026 3:11 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, July 17 — A man was allegedly attacked with a sharp weapon while queuing for a bus near a university in Wangsa Maju recently, in an incident captured on video that has since gone viral on social media.

According to Utusan Malaysia, the footage appears to show a man dressed in black suddenly attacking a man dressed in white multiple times with what appears to be a sharp weapon before kicking him. The motive for the assault remains unclear.


The exact date of the incident has not been disclosed.

Police launched an investigation after the victim lodged a report.


Wangsa Maju district police chief Assistant Commissioner Annas Sulaiman said an investigation paper had been opened under Section 324 of the Penal Code for voluntarily causing hurt by dangerous weapons or means.


“An investigation paper has been opened under Section 324 of the Penal Code, and no arrests have been made so far,” he said when contacted today.

Police have not disclosed the extent of the victim’s injuries or whether the suspect and victim knew each other. Investigations are ongoing.

PN unveils 11 candidates, completes N Sembilan seat line-up with 'friend' BN

PN unveils 11 candidates, completes N Sembilan seat line-up with 'friend' BN

Alyaa Alhadjri
Published: Jul 17, 2026 12:00 AM
Updated: 12:33 PM


NEGERI SEMBILAN POLLS | Perikatan Nasional tonight announced 11 candidates for the Negeri Sembilan state election, completing a 36-seat electoral pact with "friendly" rival BN.

Under this arrangement, the remaining 25 seats will be contested by BN to avoid splitting the opposition vote against the ruling Pakatan Harapan.

The PN line-up comprises five candidates from PAS, four from Parti Wawasan Negara, and one each from Gerakan and MIPP.

Coalition chairperson Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar unveiled the candidates from PAS, Wawasan Negara, Gerakan and MIPP at Kompleks PAS in Ampangan, Negeri Sembilan.

The announcement came a day after BN named its candidates, with its Negeri Sembilan chairperson Mohamad Hasan indicating that a “friend” would announce candidates for the remaining constituencies.

“Yesterday, Tok Mat said during BN’s candidate announcement that BN would have an understanding with a ‘friend’.

“Tonight, that ‘friend’ will announce its candidates and begin this move,” Samsuri (above) said.

PN’s candidates include several former assemblypersons and a former state exco.

Former Serting assemblyperson Fairuz Isa, 50, will attempt to reclaim the seat, while former Negeri Sembilan exco member Dr Rafie Abdul Malek will contest Ampangan.

Rafie served in the state administration from 2018 until August 2023.

Former Paroi assemblyperson Kamarlol Ridzuan Zain will contest the same seat, while former Bagan Pinang representative Abdul Fatah Zakaria has been fielded in Bagan Pinang again.

Both served as assemblypersons from 2023 until the dissolution of the state legislative assembly this year.

In Klawang, PN will field Dani Rais, 39, the son of former Dewan Negara president Rais Yatim.

In the 2023 state polls, Dani contested and lost the Klawang seat on a PN ticket against his cousin and then incumbent, Pakatan Harapan’s Bakri Sawir.


Ex-cop listed

Former Malacca deputy police chief Razali Abu Samah will contest Sikamat.

The remaining candidates are Kumar Paramasivam, 57, in Lobak; Erik Michael in Mambau; Ridzuan Ahmad in Gemas; Lee Boon Shian, 41, in Bukit Kepayang; and Sathes Kumar Nilameham in Lukut.

Earlier, Samsuri said the 11 PN candidates would complement the 25 announced by BN last night.

“As (Gerakan president) Dominic (Lau) mentioned earlier, we will complete the remaining 11 seats, to be added to the 25 announced last night.

“The candidates contesting this time will be referred to as PN candidates, our shared candidates,” he added.


PN-BN cooperation

Meanwhile, Wawasan Negara president Hamzah Zainudin said the announcements by BN and PN signalled that both coalitions had agreed to cooperate in the polls.

“Yesterday, I heard speeches from my colleagues. They said BN would only announce 25 of the 36 seats. That was yesterday.

“I heard the Negeri Sembilan BN chairperson’s speech. Tok Mat said: ‘Today, we will announce 25. Tomorrow, we want to hear our good friends announce the rest.’

“There are 36 seats in Negeri Sembilan. Earlier, BN announced 25…what does that mean? It means we have agreed to cooperate… a new alignment, God willing!” Hamzah said.

Hamzah Zainudin


Meanwhile, Pejuang president Mukhriz Mahathir earlier announced that his party will not field a candidate in Negeri Sembilan but focused on campaigning for PN.

With tonight’s announcements, Bersatu is confirmed to be left out of PN’s candidates’ line-up, with the party to announce contenders to run under its own logo.

Nominations for the Negeri Sembilan polls have been set for July 18 and polling on Aug 1.

***

Anwar stabbed kaukau by Zahidi

Gerakan Penang seeks autonomy to chart Island comeback

H’ng Khoon Leng is optimistic that Gerakan can perform reasonably well in Penang because there is a clamouring of their type of governance, which is driven by moderation, needs and championing the state’s assets from heritage and the environment. - Facebook pic, July 17, 2026


Gerakan Penang seeks autonomy to chart Island comeback


Use of own logo will guide voters to pick 'known devil' says State Party Chief


John Chin
Updated 21 minutes ago
17 July, 2026
12:14 PM MYT



KUALA LUMPUR – Penang Gerakan sees a chance for it to make a political comeback in its former bastion of Penang but it can only be realised if the leadership accords autonomy to the state chapter to use its own logo for campaigning and on the ballot papers.

State Gerakan leader H’ng Khoon Leng says that up to 80% of the party’s grassroots in Penang, will support a notion of Gerakan using its own logo because it will demonstrate to the voters that the party is trying to stand on its own.

“It is difficult for any party to contest alone in the complicated and polarised voting base that Malaysia has become but we need to demonstrate we are keen.”

He supported a call from other comrades here for the party to consider using their own logo for the next general election here.

Following the outcome in the Johor state election and the narratives emerging from the coming Negri Sembilan and Malacca elections, H’ng said that the voters are now rather fed up of failed promises and excessive coalition politics.

State Gerakan leader H’ng Khoon Leng says that up to 80% of the party’s grassroots in Penang, will support a notion of Gerakan using its own logo because it will demonstrate to the voters that the party is trying to stand on its own. – Gerakan pic, July 17, 2026

“When the playing field is too crowded, the voters would opt for the devil they know rather than the unknowns out there,” said H’ng.

“While Barisan Nasional (BN) seems steady, it was just months ago that there were speculations that MCA and MIC wanted to opt on their own or join other political blocs. Coalition politics have become a hassle rather than complementary.”

Hence, there is a clamouring now within the party for Gerakan to use its own logo in the next election, particularly in Penang, said H’ng in an interview.

He said that besides this, Perikatan Nasional (PN) and the ruling national unity coalition of Pakatan Harapan (PH), are also undergoing some “insecurities” within their own coalition set – up

So it is better for Gerakan to use its own logo, said H’ng, who also believed that its PN allies in PAS and Parti Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu), are receptive to the concept.

“I think if you ask some 80% of our grassroots, they may agree too.”

But ultimately, it is up to the party leadership under president Datuk Seri Dominic Lau Hoe Chai to make the decision, said H’ng.

H’ng is optimistic that Gerakan can perform reasonably well in Penang because there is a clamouring of their type of governance, which is driven by moderation, needs and championing the state’s assets from heritage and the environment.

It is also driven by the notion that its main rival – DAP is saddled with internal disputes which has lingered on for over five years, he said.

Although DAP’s Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim Chee Keong is said to be a front runner for the post, speculations are abound that the party may need to settle for a candidate, who is appeasing to all factions within the party.

Former DAP’s Tanjong MP Ng Wei Aik had vouched for party secretary – general Anthony Loke Siew Fook to lead the party in Penang but, Loke’s name emerged as one of the DAP candidates in the coming Negri Sembilan state elections on August 1. – July 17, 2026.

Johor Was Bersama’s Baptism, Not Its Burial

 

Dennis Ignatius

 

~ Provoking discussion, dissent & debate on politics, diplomacy, human rights & civil society.

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Johor Was Bersama’s Baptism, Not Its Burial

17FridayJul 2026

Posted by Dennis Ignatius in GE16, Politics

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

Anwar Ibrahim, GE16, Johor election, Parti Bersama, PAS, PH, Rafizi Ramli, UMNO-BN

[1] Bersama was trashed in the Johor state election, losing its deposit in all 15 seats it contested. But that was not surprising given that the party went to the polls just weeks after it was formed, with barely any party machinery on the ground and candidates long on passion but short on campaign experience. Johor was Bersama’s baptism, the beginning of a long journey.

[2] The bigger story is how the other parties fared. Pakatan Harapan, with its bigger war chest, its better election machinery and the full weight of the federal government behind it, won just 8 of the 56 seats it contested; several PH candidates lost their deposits too. Bersatu and PAS didn’t win a single seat. BN benefited as some voters shifted away from PH or stayed home.

[3] The message was clear — voters have had enough of PH and are ready for change. PH leaders are still in denial — blaming Bersama for splitting the vote, insisting that next time will be different, and trying valiantly to carry on with business as usual. They don’t seem to get it that a plurality of voters are angry, disappointed and disillusioned with PH, and with Anwar in particular.

[4] Perhaps PH leaders are still clinging to the hope that non-Malay voters, wary of PAS, will quickly fall into line if PH simply waves a green flag. They don’t seem to appreciate that Anwar’s own brand of political Islam is just as worrying to non-Muslim voters.

[5] Some are urging PH to refocus on the reform agenda and move more strongly against corruption. It’s too late for that. The country is already in election mode. The unity government is fraying: its component parties are attacking one another at state level while pretending to be one big happy family at the federal level. Passing legislation will become next to impossible. The Bill to separate the roles of the Attorney General and Public Prosecutor — one of PH’s signature reforms — has been postponed to the next Dewan Rakyat sitting. Realistically, there is little reason to expect Anwar to deliver in the time remaining before GE16 — at most 19 months — what he has failed to deliver in over three and a half years in power.

[6] PH’s sharpest selling point was always the contrast it offered to UMNO and PAS. Compromise and betrayal have severely weakened that contrast to the point that voters are as distrustful of PH as they are of BN or PAS. Voters must now consider who best will keep the spirit of reformasi alive in a post-GE16 scenario where UMNO-PAS looks likely to form the government. 

[7] What this means is that Bersama now has an even greater opportunity to position itself as Malaysia’s last, best hope for reform. Critics say it is too new, too small, too unproven to compete with the established parties. But political parties are what the people make of them. Giants fall — UMNO did in 2018, PH did in Sabah and Johor. An upstart can rise to giant-killer status if it has the support, and the organisation and campaign discipline that experienced hands like Rafizi and Nik can bring.

[8] We might well be at another defining moment. Voters can fall back on the same parties and personalities that have consistently failed them, stay home, or invest their hopes in something new. There are early signs of a shift to Bersama across the country — membership rising, volunteers coming forward, donations growing. If enough people catch Bersama’s vision and join the movement for change, Malaysian politics could finally get the reset everyone’s been hoping for.

[9] For this reason, it would be premature to write off Bersama after a single tentative electoral foray. It’s still early days for the party. The political situation is evolving. In many ways, the nation is moving into uncharted territory. People are frustrated and angry. They don’t want to go back to business as usual. If Bersama stays the course, if voters respond positively to its message, it could well emerge as the only force able to serve as an effective and honest check on whoever forms the next government. And that could breathe new life into an otherwise moribund political system.

[Dennis Ignatius | Kuala Lumpur | Friday, 17 July 2026]