Tahfiz teacher claims trial to sexually assaulting pupils

Tahfiz teacher claims trial to sexually assaulting pupils

2 hours ago

Bernama

Ilyas Jamaludin is accused of committing the offences against the boys, aged 10 and 11, between July and August 2026.

Ilyas Jamaludin claimed trial in the Ampang sessions court to four counts of committing physical sexual assault against two male pupils.

KUALA LUMPUR:

A 35-year-old tahfiz teacher pleaded not guilty in the Ampang sessions court today to four counts of committing physical sexual assault against two male pupils at a religious school in Taman Keramat.

Ilyas Jamaludin is alleged to have committed the offences against the boys, aged 10 and 11, at the premises between July and August 2026.

The charges were made under Sections 14(a) and 14(b) of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017, read together with Section 16(1) of the same Act.

Under Section 14(a) and 14(b), the offence carries a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment and a caning. Section 16(1) provides for an additional term of up to five years’ imprisonment and no fewer than two strokes of the cane, upon conviction.

Ilyas also faces a charge under Section 15(f) of the same Act, which carries a maximum prison term of 10 years, a fine not exceeding RM20,000, or both.

Deputy public prosecutor Nadiah Malek Fauzie did not offer bail, citing the seriousness of the alleged offences and expressing concern that the Ilyas might intimidate the victims if released.

However, Ilyas’s lawyer Zaharudeen Harun applied for bail of RM10,000 for all four charges, saying his client had been immediately dismissed from his job and needed to support his ailing elderly parents.

“I understand that the madrasah has terminated the accused’s employment with immediate effect, and there is no issue of him returning to the premises to interfere with witnesses or the victims,” the lawyer said.

Judge Ho Kwong Chin granted bail of RM30,000 with one surety for all four charges, subject to Ilyas reporting to the nearest police station each month and refraining from contacting or intimidating any witnesses or victims until the case is concluded.

The court set Oct 5 for the next case mention.

Roller coaster mishap at Subang Jaya theme park leaves ten hurt, police investigating

Roller coaster mishap at Subang Jaya theme park leaves ten hurt, police investigating



A general view of a roller coaster ride at a theme park. — Unsplash pic


Summary

• A roller coaster incident at a theme park in Subang Jaya resulted in minor injuries to ten individuals, with a total of 22 local and foreign riders affected.
• The incident occurred around 9 PM on Saturday, with a report lodged on Sunday morning.
• District police chief ACP Wan Azlan Wan Mamat confirmed that all injuries were minor and emphasized that the police are investigating the incident.
• He urged the public not to speculate on the matter to avoid obstructing the investigation.

First Published: Monday, 24 Aug 2026 2:37 PM MYT


SUBANG JAYA, Aug 24 — Ten people sustained minor injuries in a roller coaster incident at a theme park here.

District police chief ACP Wan Azlan Wan Mamat said the incident took place at about 9pm on Saturday, while the report was lodged with police at 11.45am yesterday.


He said 22 people, comprising locals and foreign tourists aged between 11 and 44, were on the ride when the incident occurred.


“Ten of them sustained injuries and were taken to medical centres in the Subang Jaya district for treatment.


“All the victims sustained minor injuries and there were no fatalities,” he said in a statement today.


Wan Azlan said police were investigating the incident and advised the public not to speculate, as this could hamper the investigation.

“Anyone with information can contact the Subang Jaya Police headquarters at 03-78627100,” he said. — Bernama

James Chin hails Prof Solehah’s contract termination but rightists defend her academic wisdom

James Chin hails Prof Solehah’s contract termination but rightists defend her academic wisdom

FIRST thing first. There is a slight plot twist in the decision by the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) to end its employment of controversial academic Solehah Yaacob effective April 27.

Recall that IIUM in distancing itself from the Arabic linguist specialist-turned-historian without credential has stressed that the latter was no longer permitted to use any title or position linked to the university or allowed to claim any affiliation with the higher learning institution.

[MEDIA RELEASE]

CLARIFICATION ON SERVICE STATUS AND AFFILIATION WITH IIUM

#IIUM2026...

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However, the former Department of Arabic Language and Literature who accused IIUM of having acted unprofessionally in her contract discontinuity would be referring the matter to the Industrial Court.

“The reason I was terminated was because I didn’t attend even one academic inquiry meeting regarding the Roman ship issue. For the two meetings before that, I had a ward admission letter and a sick leave certificate,” she apparently told Malay language news portal TV Pertiwi.

As for the third time, I’ve written an e-mail apologising and asking for it to be re-scheduled given I had already obliged to attend a programme one month before I found out the date of the inquiry meeting.

I couldn’t cancel the programme because the participants have already made the payment and the banner had already been put up for a long time. The case has been referred to the Industrial Court pending the letter for filing.

For the record, IIUM had established an internal inquiry panel late last year to examine Solehah’s arguments regarding the Roman shipbuilding issue related to academic integrity.

The inquiry panel was chaired by Deputy Rector (Academic & Internationalisation) Prof Datuk Dr Ahmad Faris Ismail.

Sympathisers aplenty

Avid political commentator Ptof James Chin lauded IIUM’s decision to severe any connection with Solehah on grounds that her academic wisdom has severely damaged the latter’s reputation.

“People shouldn’t pity her because she had complete freedom to spread her mind-blowing ideas … She has joined a right-wing firm whereby she’s now conducting cruises and well-attended workshops on a full-time basis,” the inaugural director of the Asia Institute at the University of Tasmania told FocusM.

IIUM finally took action because of the negative publicity, all driven by soc-med. In other words, if soc-med did not expose her "research" she will still be IIUM Professor? #JustAsking

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“Such ecosystem will enable her and other likeminded people to amplify greatness of the Malay civilisation in that it is not only the oldest but most superior in this part of the world … It baffles the mind as to why many fall for that or how this proliferates so fast in the Malay society.”

Likening Solehah’s antics to the western craze in the “ancient aliens” phenomenon, Chin contended that the Malay society always has soft spot for such alternative history element.

“PAS can surely derive mileage from her given she’s both sympathetic of the Islamist party’s position, especially with her belief that Islam has its presence in Malaysia even earlier than the 14th century,” opined Chin who is also the senior associate at the Tun Tan Cheng Lock Centre for Social and Policy Studies at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR).

“Nevertheless, that same wavelength and belief in alternative history pose danger as they paint the impression of Malays being suppressed, hence can spark unduly racial tension by their act of lashing out against the minority.”

As it is, some rational Malays, too, welcome the termination of Solehah on grounds of the numerous deceptive findings associated with her.

Kepakaran bahasa Arab memberi seseorang kemampuan membaca dan mentafsir sumber Arab, tetapi tidak secara automatik memberikan kepakaran dalam sejarah maritim atau arkeologi.

Dakwaan sejarah yang besar tetap perlu diuji dengan metodologi disiplin tersebut dan disokong oleh bukti daripada sumber yang pelbagai.

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But the irony is such that the rightist fraternity is seemingly defensive of Solehah as gauged from reaction of commenters from the TV Pertiwi Facebook post and that of Malay language portal Malaysia Gazette.

Dr. Solehah Yaacob tidak boleh lagi dikaitkan dengan Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia (UIAM) selepas perkhidmatannya sebagai kakitangan akademik ditamatkan berkuat kuasa 27 April lalu.

Pejabat Komunikasi, Advokasi dan Promosi (OCAP) UIAM dalam kenyataan hari ini memaklumkan, Solehah tidak lagi memegang jawatan sebagai profesor di universiti berkenaan atau mewakilinya dalam apa-apa perjawatan.

Berita lanjut layari www.malaysiagazette.com

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In a gist, many who are fascinated with her lecture want her “to continue unveiling the greatness if Malay Muslim civilisation” or that she will continue to be protected by the All Mighty in her quest to unearth the ultimate truth about the greatness of Malay civilisation even if they defy “modern day imperialistic history”.

Elsewhere, there are also words of encouragement for her to sue IIUM over her unfair dismissal given there are “invisible hands to prevent foresightful Malay academicians from excelling in their fields of studies”. – Aug 24, 2026

PH needs new strategy and more inclusive alliances, says Tian Chua

PH needs new strategy and more inclusive alliances, says Tian Chua


5 hours ago
Minderjeet Kaur


The former MP also says PKR must establish itself as a movement that could survive beyond the present government and its president, Anwar Ibrahim

Tian Chua, one of PKR’s founding leaders, said there are many movements and parties which share the ideal of an inclusive Malaysia.

PETALING JAYA: Tian Chua, one of PKR’s founding leaders, has called for Pakatan Harapan to forge a new political strategy and new alliances that are more inclusive than the current three-party model.

The current structure, which comprises PKR, DAP and Amanah, is “outdated”, he said in an interview with FMT.

The former Batu MP who was recently invited to rejoin PKR after being sacked in 2023 said new alliances could include political parties, movements and people who shared the vision of an inclusive Malaysia.


Tian Chua said many movements and parties share this ideal. It did not matter if these parties or organisations were not huge outfits or did not have many members, because “their vision is what matters.”

“We have to find ways to accommodate them and synchronise our efforts with them,” he said.


Tian Chua acknowledged, however, that political parties ultimately had to contest in elections and field candidates, but said these were merely “technical considerations”. Seat distribution was secondary as candidate selection should be based on merit and ability to attract votes.’

Beyond Anwar

Tian Chua further said PKR must also establish itself as a movement that could survive beyond the present government and its president, Anwar Ibrahim.

“The party’s objective cannot purely be to remain in power for the next (electoral) term and then find new leaders just to remain in power after that,” he said.


“The main thing is that we have to create a party with idealism and principles,” he said, adding that the party must build ”bottom up” by rebuilding the grassroots, reconnecting with communities and making supporters feel like the movement belonged to the people.

He said PKR’s experience in government should be a “cumulative skill” that helps it become a better ruling party.

A similar call for PKR to start cultivating a new generation of leaders was made by PKR vice-president Dr Zaliha Mustafa last week. She said the party must build up leaders capable of continuing with the reform agenda and leading the country in the post-Anwar era.

PKR should not wait until Anwar decides to step down as party president before looking for a successor, she said.

Melaka election countdown? Perikatan hints at polls within two months

Melaka election countdown? Perikatan hints at polls within two months



Terengganu Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar speaks at the Terengganu State Maal Hijrah 1448H/2026M Celebration at the Dewan Besar, Wisma Darul Iman in Kuala Terengganu on June 17, 2026. — Bernama pic


Summary

• Perikatan Nasional (PN) anticipates the Melaka state election could be held within two months, urging swift preparedness from its election machinery, as indicated by PN chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar.
• He emphasized the critical nature of the 60-day timeline as a decisive period for future governance in Melaka.
• Addressing a fundraiser, Samsuri underscored PN's readiness to participate in Melaka's administration, ensuring fair governance and protection of community interests amid the state's diversity.
• He asserted that PN's approach would promote peace and prosperity, positioning Melaka as a harmonious model state.

By Malay Mail
First Published: Monday, 24 Aug 2026 10:43 AM MYT


AYER KEROH, Aug 24 — Perikatan Nasional (PN) has teased a tight timeline for the Melaka state election, suggesting the polls could be held in less than two months and putting the coalition’s election machinery on high alert.

PN chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar warned that a 60-day window should not be mistaken for a long period, but rather viewed as a critical countdown to determine who will govern the state, NST reported.


“There is a reason why I mentioned two months, but there is no need to explain it here,” the Terengganu menteri besar said during the PAS Melaka fundaiser last night.


“Do not see 60 days as a long period. Instead, see it as a period that will determine the form of government that will administer Melaka.”


Speaking in the presence of PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang, Ahmad Samsuri, who also serves as a PAS vice-president, vowed that PN is prepared to govern Melaka regardless of the political landscape.


He emphasised that the coalition is committed to securing a role in the state administration to ensure the interests of all communities are protected and treated with equity.

“We have made our commitment in PAS and PN to be part of the administration of Melaka, regardless of who leads the state,” he said.


“We recognise the diversity of communities here and will govern Melaka with that diversity in mind.”

Ahmad Samsuri argued that fairness in governance is the only way to ensure Melaka remains a peaceful and prosperous state, promising that a PN or PN-influenced administration would serve as a model of harmony.

“Everyone’s interests will be considered and protected fairly. This will ensure Melaka becomes an example of a peaceful, prosperous and harmonious state,” he added.

Iran discovers more than 200b cubic metres of natural gas reserves

Iran discovers more than 200b cubic metres of natural gas reserves



Iran’s energy sector has taken a hit since joint US-Israeli strikes on the Islamic republic launched the Middle East war in late February. — AFP pic


Summary

• Iran announced the discovery of over 200 billion cubic meters of natural gas in Fars province, with more than 160 billion cubic meters considered extractable, according to Petroleum Minister Mohsen Paknejad.
• Described as sweet natural gas, the new reserves promise lower operating and development costs.
• However, production from this site may take years.
• This discovery comes amidst significant challenges to Iran's energy infrastructure due to ongoing strikes from the US and Israel, affecting gas production facilities, oil depots, and transport routes.

First Published: Monday, 24 Aug 2026 9:15 AM MYT




TEHRAN, Aug 24 — Iran said yesterday it had discovered more than 200 billion cubic metres of natural gas, months into the Middle East war that has hit the country’s energy infrastructure and production.


“New gas reserves were discovered in the south of Fars province,” Petroleum Minister Mohsen Paknejad told state television, adding that over 160 billion cubic metres could be extracted from the field.


He described it as sweet natural gas, which has very little of the toxic gas hydrogen sulphide, resulting in lower operating and development costs.


According to Bloomberg, any new production from the site would likely be years away.


Iran’s energy sector has taken a hit since joint US-Israeli strikes on the Islamic republic launched the Middle East war in late February.

The countries have struck Iran’s energy infrastructure such as gas production facilities or oil depots, as well as transport routes. — AFP

***

S-Whole must be drooling now😂😂😂

 

US envoy Tom Barrack retracts comment that Syria’s Golan is occupied

Ambassador to Turkiye says US policy of recognising Israel’s claimed sovereignty over Syrian territory is ‘unchanged’.

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Pro-Israel advocates criticised Tom Barrack for saying the UN considers the Golan to be Syrian territory [File: Evan Vucci/AP Photo]

By Al Jazeera Staff

Published On 23 Aug 202623 Aug 2026

United States Ambassador Tom Barrack has reasserted Washington’s position that Syria’s Golan Heights belongs to Israel after saying last week that the territory is occupied against “all of the international order”.

US President Donald Trump’s ambassador to Turkiye and envoy for Syria walked back that comment on Sunday, underscoring Trump’s policy of recognising Israel’s claimed sovereignty over the stretch of land in southern Syria.

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“United States policy on the Golan was set by President Trump in 2019 and is unchanged,” he told The Associated Press news agency in a statement.

Israel occupied the Golan during the 1967 Six-Day War and annexed the territory in 1981.

Until Trump backed the Israeli claim to the Syrian territory, no country had recognised the Golan as part of Israel.

The recognition sparked an international outcry. Legal experts warned that it could upend a core tenet of the post-World War II global order: the prohibition on acquiring land by force.

Former US President Joe Biden promoted the so-called rules-based order early in his tenure, but he failed to reverse Trump’s policy on the Golan during his four-year term.

Recently, Colombia’s right-wing government joined the US in backing Israel’s claim on the Golan.

In an interview with podcaster Mario Nawfal on Friday, Barrack appeared to acknowledge that the Golan is occupied Syrian land.

Barrack was asked whether Israel has plans to annex parts of southern Lebanon. He said regardless of intent, Israel knows that it would be difficult to claim Lebanese territory as its own.

“Saying that, in the Golan with Syria, they still occupy the Golan against the UN resolutions, against all of the international order, which has said the Golan is Syria’s,” Barrack said.

Israel’s advocates were quick to criticise Barrack’s comment. Far-right commentator Laura Loomer called on the envoy to step down.

“He should resign for his lack of understanding of US foreign policy,” she wrote in a social media post, sharing Trump’s 2019 proclamation saying that the Golan belongs to Israel.

Republican Senator Rick Scott also criticised the ambassador, saying Barrack was confirmed by the Senate to enact Trump’s agenda.

“It seems the Ambassador forgot that or failed to do his research, so here’s a refresher for him,” Scott wrote in a social media post that included Trump’s executive order on the Golan Heights.

“President Trump has been CLEAR about Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights for years!”

Barrack had also been criticised for opposing Israeli air strikes on a Syrian airbase last week.

In his interview with Nawfal, Barrack suggested that the Israeli strikes in Syria were aimed at antagonising Turkiye, which is allied with the Syrian government.

“One theory is they were just baiting Turkiye, and it’s a very aggressive, but maybe well-received pre-election concept,” Barrack said, referring to US midterm elections in November.