Monday, August 04, 2025

Local rice not selling? Check quality first, says opposition










Local rice not selling? Check quality first, says opposition


Malaysiakini Team
Published: Aug 4, 2025 5:22 PM
Updated: 7:22 PM



PARLIAMENT | Deputy Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Fuziah Salleh has come under criticism from the opposition over her remarks claiming that local rice was not well received by the public amid rising cost-of-living concerns.

Opposition leader Hamzah Zainudin urged the government to examine the quality of local rice in the market.

“I was shocked the deputy minister in charge of cost of living said local rice isn’t selling.

“MasyaAllah, I want to tell the deputy minister, has she listened to the people’s complaints, does she know the quality of the rice being sold, does she understand that the people also know the quality of rice?

“Don’t speak carelessly without thinking about the interests of the people on the ground. It is such behaviour that causes public disappointment,” the Larut MP said during the debate on the 13th Malaysia Plan in the Dewan Rakyat today.

Idris Ahmad (PN-Bagan Serai) shared similar concerns, saying people could not afford local rice as it is only sold in 10kg bags.


Bagan Serai MP Idris Ahmad


“Regarding local rice that’s said to not be selling, it’s strange in Bagan Serai, because local rice is only sold in 10kg bags.

“The 5kg bags are sold at imported rice prices, while the people want to buy just 5kg,” he said.


Broken rice percentage

Hamzah further claimed that the cheaper 10kg bags contain a higher percentage of broken rice.

“The minister needs to recheck the quality of the rice. The 5kg bags are sold at higher prices because the percentage of broken rice is low.

“The 10kg bags have a high percentage (of broken rice). That’s why they’re cheap. That’s why I ask the government to check first before speaking,” he said.


Deputy Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Fuziah Salleh


On July 31, Fuziah told Parliament that narratives about price hikes burdening the public were being exaggerated.

“Previously, people complained about the unavailability of local rice, complaining as if the government failed to provide it.

“But when the local rice is fully stocked in supermarkets, it doesn’t sell. Even local rice under the Rahmah sales isn’t moving,” she said.


N Sembilan DAP Veterans Club sorry over 'sanitary pad mask' protest












N Sembilan DAP Veterans Club sorry over 'sanitary pad mask' protest


Published: Aug 4, 2025 4:30 PM
Updated: 8:04 PM



Negeri Sembilan DAP Veterans Club chairperson Lee Kong Hing, who became embroiled in a controversy after using “sanitary pad masks” to protest an intra-party dispute yesterday, has apologised for his actions.

At a press conference in Seremban today, Lee said he did not intend to offend or discriminate against women.

“As for using the sanitary pad, I actually have a lot of respect for women. I had no intention of insulting women, and I hope they won’t misunderstand my intention. I was just using it as a prop.

“Since it’s airtight and waterproof, it should be good, right? Because they (the state DAP committee) didn’t speak up, that’s what I was trying to express yesterday. That’s all,” he said, according to a video published by Sin Chew Daily.

He then offered an apology.

“If what I did was insulting, then I’ll just say sorry lah, I apologise a bit,” he said.


Negeri Sembilan DAP Veterans Club wearing ‘sanitary pad masks’ to protest an intra-party dispute


However, he claimed to have received calls from some women who told him they were not offended by his actions.


Escalation unexpected

DAP National Veterans Club chairperson Lay Hock Peng reportedly arranged today’s press conference.

Lee thanked Lay for his concern over the issue.

“He was very concerned, afraid I’d ‘fall into a drain’ or something. He came down all the way from Penang, worried that I might make another mistake. I thank him for that,” he said.

Lee further stated that he did not expect the matter to escalate to this extent.

He reiterated his protest against the decision to nominate Vincent Wu, a DAP central executive committee member whom Lee labelled as an “outsider”, as a senator representing Negeri Sembilan.

However, he said the Negeri Sembilan DAP Veterans Club had no choice but to accept the decision, as the state leadership had refused to reverse it.

“There’s nothing we can do… He is our own leader, after all,” he said, referring to state DAP chief and party secretary-general Anthony Loke.

In a separate press conference earlier today, Loke slammed Lee for using sanitary pads to express their dissatisfaction and urged Lee to apologise.


2 die after lorry rams into another parked by roadside


FMT:

2 die after lorry rams into another parked by roadside



The two were thrown out of the lorry, carrying eggs, in the incident near Slim River


The two lorries involved in the accident at Km372.1 of the North-South Expressway (southbound) near Slim River. (Fire and rescue department pic)



PETALING JAYA: Two people were killed and two others injured in a collision involving two lorries, at Km372.1 of the North-South Expressway (southbound) near Slim River, Perak, today.

Perak fire and rescue department assistant director (operations) Sabarodzi Nor Ahmad said they were informed about the crash at about noon, Bernama reported.

A team from the Slim River fire and rescue station was sent to the scene, 10km away.


Four people – a driver and three assistants – were in one of the lorries, transporting eggs, which crashed into the rear of a trailer lorry loaded with cement, parked by the road shoulder.

Sabarodzi said the duo, both in their 20s, were thrown out from the lorry and died at the scene.


The other two, aged 40 and 30, sustained minor injuries and were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

It took nearly two hours to clear the road, causing traffic congestion.


Loke: Don't politicise flag incident, let ministry probe it










Loke: Don't politicise flag incident, let ministry probe it


Published: Aug 4, 2025 2:54 PM
Updated: 5:21 PM


Summary


  • Transport Minister Anthony Loke says no one needs to politicise the recent flag incident involving a Chinese-medium school, in which the Jalur Gemilang was flown upside down.

  • He urges the public to allow the Education Ministry to investigate the matter.


Transport Minister Anthony Loke said there is no need for anyone to politicise the recent flag incident involving a Chinese-medium school, in which the Jalur Gemilang was flown upside down.

“Every time something like this happens, there will be some quarters trying to politicise it.

“As for the mistakes, I leave the matter to the Education Ministry, which is already investigating the matter.

“Let the ministry’s probe decide whether it was deliberate or not,” he told reporters after launching the Seremban parliamentary-level Merdeka celebration at Chan Wa Secondary School today.

Yesterday, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said her ministry will take action against SJKC Chung Hua in Port Dickson, where the Jalur Gemilang was flown upside down.

She also said her ministry is waiting for a full report on the results of the investigation into the incident.


The upside down Jalur Gemilang at SJKC Chung Hua, Port Dickson


“We have reminded (all) about this issue multiple times - it’s not something new.

“So, when we receive the full report, we will take strict action,” she added.

The school had issued an apology on Aug 1, explaining that the error occurred when a school employee was installing flags before the end of their work hours.

“The school received the information around 5pm and took corrective measures immediately,” it said.


Akmal calls for punishment

Earlier today, Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh demanded punitive measures, asserting that apologies are no remedy for perceived disrespect.

Stressing that the national flag must be honoured, not desecrated, Akmal decried what he described as a recurring pattern of offence followed by remorse.


Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh


Loke, who is also DAP secretary-general, reminded the public of the importance of respecting the national flag.

He said that when displaying Jalur Gemilang, one must do it correctly - taking into consideration respect and sensitivities.

“Sometimes, mistakes happen, and we leave it to the relevant parties (to investigate).

“In this case, the school has to send a report to the Education Ministry,” he added.


School's flag blunder sparks fury from Akmal, forgiveness from academic













School's flag blunder sparks fury from Akmal, forgiveness from academic


Published: Aug 4, 2025 11:53 AM
Updated: 2:45 PM


The upside-down Jalur Gemilang incident at a Chinese school in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, ignited sharply contrasting reactions from two familiar voices - fiery Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh and conciliatory academic Tajuddin Rasdi.

True to form, Akmal, known for his hardline posturing, questioned whether the school’s apology was sincere or merely performative.

The Merlimau assemblyperson demanded punitive measures, asserting that apologies are no remedy for perceived disrespect.

Stressing that the national flag must be honoured, not desecrated, Akmal decried what he described as a recurring pattern of offence followed by remorse.

“We have long emphasised that severe punishment must be given to those who disrespect the Malaysian flag. There’s no way someone wouldn’t realise the flag is upside down - unless they’re pretending not to know.

“We urge the Education Ministry to take stern action against the perpetrators before this becomes something trivialised, where people just ‘do it first, apologise later’ and think it’s settled,” he said in a Facebook post.


The upside-down Jalur Gemilang at SJKC Chung Hua in Negeri Sembilan


In contrast, Tajuddin urged fairness from the ministry, recalling that it too had committed a flag blunder in the recent past.

“Until now, we the rakyat have no clue what actions were taken,” he added in a statement to Malaysiakini.

The architecture professor was referring to an incorrect depiction of the national flag in an exam results analysis report circulated in April.

That misstep came shortly after similar blunders by two Chinese-language newspapers, which had provoked former education minister Maszlee Malik into calling for accountability.

Invoking Maszlee’s stance, Tajuddin made clear he didn’t think heads should roll this time over the Chinese school’s blunder.

“A statement of an honest mistake has been made by the school, and that is enough for me,” he added.

Yesterday, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek vowed “strict action” against SJKC Chung Hua.

The school has since apologised for the Aug 1 incident.

In a joint statement issued by the school board, administration, and Parent-Teacher Association, it explained that the error occurred during flag installation before the end of working hours.

“However, due to carelessness, one of the flags was installed upside down. This incident was recorded by the public and uploaded to social media.

“The school received the information around 5pm and took corrective measures immediately,” the statement read.


***


Who would be the usual person to raise and lower flags at schools? The School Board Chair, principal, teacher, or school janitor?


Tengku Zafrul: Malaysia makes trade concessions to US to keep exports flowing, protect 100,000 jobs





Tengku Zafrul: Malaysia makes trade concessions to US to keep exports flowing, protect 100,000 jobs



Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz explained that the United States remains Malaysia’s largest export destination, with exports reaching RM198.65 billion in 2024, and is also a major source of foreign investment, contributing RM32.82 billion to date. — Bernama pic

Monday, 04 Aug 2025 1:18 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 4 — Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz said Malaysia has agreed to a series of trade concessions in response to demands from the United States (US) to safeguard the country’s export-driven economy and protect local jobs.

He explained that the United States remains Malaysia’s largest export destination, with exports reaching RM198.65 billion in 2024, and is also a major source of foreign investment, contributing RM32.82 billion to date.


“..... Any changes in US trade policy cannot be taken lightly, as they could have a negative impact on Malaysia’s economy.

“For example, it is estimated that up to 100,000 workers, particularly in Penang and Kedah, could be at risk of losing their jobs if electrical and electronic products can no longer be exported to the US due to high tariffs,” he told the Dewan Rakyat today.


He added that although semiconductor products are currently exempt from countervailing tariffs, they are under investigation by the United States under Section 232 of the US Trade Expansion Act of 1962.



He said there is a possibility that the US may impose additional tariffs on national security grounds.

He also said the US had requested Malaysia to reduce or remove import duties and to exempt American agricultural and industrial products from sales and excise taxes when brought into Malaysia.


He said the talks initially focused on specific US requests, but were later expanded to cover all American imports, resulting in Malaysia offering to reduce or eliminate import duties on 98.4 per cent of all tariff lines.

“For sales tax, Malaysia agreed to remove discriminatory taxes on US agricultural imports such as fruits and seafood.

“However, we maintained our position not to offer any removal or exemption of excise duties,” he added.

Tengku Zafrul also said Malaysia had committed not to impose any digital service tax that discriminates against US companies.

He stressed that Malaysia’s tax policies, including digital taxes, are based on the principle of non-discrimination.

“In addition, we removed the requirement for US-based social media and cloud service providers to contribute six per cent of their revenue in Malaysia to the Universal Service Provision (USP) Fund. We also permanently cancelled the directive requiring all Domain Name System (DNS) traffic to be rerouted to local DNS services,” he said.

He added that the US raised concerns about export controls, particularly in relation to transhipment, to prevent tax avoidance through false declarations of origin.

In response, he said Malaysia tightened its procedures by limiting the issuance of Non-Preferential Certificates of Origin (NPCO).

“Starting May 6, 2025, MITI will be the sole authority authorised to issue NPCOs for all exports to the US,” he said.

Malaysia also agreed not to impose export restrictions on rare earth elements or other critical minerals bound for the US.

However, he clarified that this does not imply any exclusive rights for the US over Malaysia’s mineral resources.

On the export and transit of artificial intelligence (AI) chips from the US to third countries, he said Malaysia will strengthen its oversight by enforcing Section 12 of the Strategic Trade Act 2010 — also known as the “catch-all” control — with effect from July 14, 2025.


PN lawmaker's 'May 13' remark sparks uproar during 13MP debate










PN lawmaker's 'May 13' remark sparks uproar during 13MP debate


Malaysiakini Team
Published: Aug 4, 2025 2:31 PM
Updated: 5:08 PM



Summary

  • Pendang MP invokes spectre of deadly May 13 riots in highlighting absence of targeted development plans for bumiputera in 13MP.

  • Awang’s warning courts backlash from govt backbencher RSN Rayer.



PARLIAMENT | Tensions flared in the Dewan Rakyat today after Pendang MP Awang Hashim issued a stark warning to the government, invoking the spectre of the deadly May 13 riots.

The opposition lawmaker mentioned the communal clashes over what he claimed was a glaring omission in the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) - the absence of targeted development plans for the bumiputera community.

Speaking during the debate on 13MP, Awang zeroed in on provisions for Chinese new villages, questioning why similar attention wasn’t afforded to bumiputeras.

“We agree that funding for Chinese new villages is not a problem. But clearly, in 13MP, there is no specific development for the bumiputera, and when we look back at the May 13 incident, one of the elements was economic pressure on the bumiputera.

“That’s why 1MP to 13MP exist - to rebalance income and the economy among the races. But 13MP has nothing specific for the bumiputera.

“Is the government trying to bring back another May 13 incident?” he asked.


Jelutong MP RSN Rayer


The remark prompted immediate backlash from RSN Rayer (Harapan-Jelutong), who rose to demand action from deputy speaker Alice Lau.

“I refer to Standing Order 36(9)(c), which states that words which may incite ill feelings or hostility between races in Malaysia, or violate any provision of the constitution or the Sedition Act, are not allowed.

“I heard earlier, Pendang debated and said the 13th Malaysia Plan is seemingly biased, not giving priority to the bumiputera, giving preference to the Chinese community, and made statements that were hurtful.

“He said the May 13 incident could happen again. I ask that he retract that statement,” said Rayer.


Slanderous allegation

Awang claimed Rayer’s allegation was slanderous.

“This is slander. He doesn’t even quote what I said. That’s why even people in DAP don’t accept you - you lost in the CEC (DAP central executive committee election),” Awang said, referring to Rayer.

Rayer responded: “Pendang did say the May 13 incident could recur. I ask the deputy speaker to make a ruling.”

Lau then asked both MPs to sit down and said the minister would respond to Awang’s question.


Deputy speaker Alice Lau


Still dissatisfied, Rayer once again called on the deputy speaker to make a ruling to prevent such incidents from recurring.

He also criticised Takiyuddin Hassan (PN-Kota Bharu), who told Rayer not to interrupt the 13MP debate.

Lau suggested that Rayer could file a motion, and subsequently asked Hamzah to continue the debate.

***

Thus we see the true colour of a MP who claims to be from an Islamic Party which promotes the compassionate teachings of Allah swt - by frigg man, he's nothing more than a blardy racist


Can you bomb Iran and still win the Nobel Peace Prize? Trump thinks so





Can you bomb Iran and still win the Nobel Peace Prize? Trump thinks so



Smoke billows following an explosion in central Tehran on June 15, 2025 as Iranian media report an Israeli strike hit the Tehran police headquarters. — AFP pic

Monday, 04 Aug 2025 7:00 AM MYT


WASHINGTON, Aug 4 — A craving for international prestige, a decade-long Obama rivalry and perhaps a dash of provocation: a mercurial melange of factors is at play in Donald Trump’s obsession with the Nobel Peace Prize.

“It’s well past time that President Trump was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize,” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on July 31, prompting reactions of disbelief and sarcasm from the Republican leader’s opponents.


Since his January 20 return to power, the US president “has brokered, on average, one peace deal or ceasefire per month,” Leavitt said, citing as examples his mediations between India and Pakistan; Cambodia and Thailand; Egypt and Ethiopia; Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC); Serbia and Kosovo; and others.

His leading spokeswoman also mentioned Iran, where Trump ordered US strikes against the Islamic republic’s nuclear facilities, as evidence of decisions Leavitt claims have contributed to world peace.


She made no mention of the conflict in Ukraine, which Trump pledged multiple times to end on “day one” of his term, or the war in Gaza, which rumbles on and for which the US supplies Israel with weapons.


Pakistan, Israel

For some foreign leaders, mentioning the prestigious award has become a sign of diplomatic goodwill toward an American president who envisions himself as a peacemaker.


Pakistan nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, as did Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

During an early July meeting at the White House, a journalist asked the presidents of Liberia, Senegal, Mauritania, Guinea-Bissau, and Gabon whether Trump deserved the award.

Basking in the flattering responses from the African leaders, a smiling Trump said: “We could do this all day long.”

Tens of thousands of people can offer a nomination to the Nobel committee, including lawmakers, ministers, certain university professors, former laureates and members of the committee themselves.

Nominations are due by January 31, with the announcement coming in October — this year on the 10th of the month.

Law professor Anat Alon-Beck, who is an Israeli-American, submitted Trump’s name to the committee’s five members, who were appointed by the Norwegian Parliament.

The assistant professor at Case Western Reserve University School of Law told AFP she did so because of the “extraordinary leadership” and “strategic brilliance” he has shown, in her opinion, in advancing peace and securing the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip.

‘Never’ getting the Nobel

For some, the prospect of handing the prize to someone who has upended the international order is untenable.

“Nominating Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize is like entering a hyena in a dog show,” US history and politics researcher Emma Shortis wrote on news site The Conversation.

“Of course Trump does not deserve it.”

The American president disagrees.



Demonstrators holding a Trump balloon march front the Los Angeles City Hall to the Edward R. Roybal Federal and Detention Center building on August 2, 2025 in Los Angeles. — AFP



“I deserve it, but they will never give it to me,” Trump told reporters in February as he hosted Netanyahu at the White House, lamenting not ticking the Nobel box in his life.

“No, I won’t get a Nobel Peace Prize no matter what I do, including Russia/Ukraine, and Israel/Iran, whatever those outcomes may be,” Trump griped on his Truth Social platform in June.

“But the people know, and that’s all that matters to me!”

Trump is well-known as someone who is particularly fond of accolades and prizes, Garret Martin, a professor of international relations at American University, told AFP, “so he would welcome this major international recognition”.

And since the beginning of his presidential ambitions 10 years ago, “he has put himself in opposition to Barack Obama, who famously won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2009,” Martin added.

The prize awarded to the Democratic former president, barely nine months after he took office, sparked heated debate — and continues to do so.

“If I were named Obama I would have had the Nobel Prize given to me in 10 seconds,” Trump bellyached in October 2024, during the final stretch of the presidential campaign.

338 candidates

Three other US presidents have also been so honoured: Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, and Jimmy Carter.

The prize was also awarded to Henry Kissinger in 1973 for his efforts to help end the war in Vietnam. The choice of the one-time US secretary of state was heavily criticised.

The full list of Nobel Peace Prize nominees is confidential — except for individual announcements by sponsors — but their number is made public. In 2025, there are 338 nominees.

Some betting sites have Trump in second place to win, behind Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. — AFP

***

as I mentioned before, for Trump to be nominated, let alone awarded, the Nobel Peace Prize, is an obscene blasphemy.

Fadhlina: Firm action once probe completed into upside-down flag incident at Port Dickson school





Fadhlina: Firm action once probe completed into upside-down flag incident at Port Dickson school



Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the incident was a serious issue, as all parties had been repeatedly reminded of the importance and sensitivity of the national flag. — Bernama

Monday, 04 Aug 2025 8:59 AM MYT


KOTA BHARU, Aug 4 — The Ministry of Education (MOE) will take firm action once it receives the full investigation report on the incident where the Jalur Gemilang flag was flown upside down at Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Cina (SJKC) Chung Hua in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, on Friday.

Its Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the incident was a serious issue, as all parties had been repeatedly reminded of the importance and sensitivity of the national flag.


“We are currently awaiting the result of the full investigation. I want to stress that once we receive the complete report, we will take stern action.

“The MOE has repeatedly reminded everyone about the sensitivity, responsibility, and commitment involved in displaying the Jalur Gemilang. Incidents like this should not have happened,” she said.


Fadhlina said this to reporters after presenting the Early Schooling Aid (BAP) to Form Six Semester One students for the 2025 session in Kelantan at the Educational Technology Resource Sector in Pengkalan Chepa, here today.



“I would like to stress that we are taking a very strict stance on any offence involving the improper display of the Jalur Gemilang because we do not want the spirit of the National Day celebration to be marred by such incidents,” she said.

SJKC Chung Hua in Port Dickson today issued a public apology over the upside-down display of the Jalur Gemilang at its premises last Friday.


The school board, Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), and the school administration, in a joint statement, expressed deep regret over the incident, which they described as an unintentional mistake.

According to the statement, the incident occurred on Aug 1 when a school worker mistakenly installed one of the flags upside down.

Meanwhile, commenting on the death of Form One student Zara Qairina Mahathir, Fadhlina stressed that the MOE was committed to ensuring a thorough and transparent investigation process, in the interest of justice for all parties involved.

“We assure that the investigation into this case will be carried out without delay from the MOE. This case is our priority.

“I wish to stress once again that no one will be shielded. We will take all necessary actions, based entirely on the results of the investigation,” she said.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today said the investigation into the death of Zara Qairina must be conducted thoroughly and transparently.

The Prime Minister was reported as saying that he had discussed the matter with Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail and Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail to ensure a swift and thorough investigation.

Zara Qairina, 13, was believed to have fallen from the third floor and was found unconscious in a drain near her school dormitory in Papar, Sabah, at 4 am on July 16.

She was pronounced dead at Queen Elizabeth I Hospital here on July 17. The student’s death quickly went viral, sparking widespread public reaction on social media. — Bernama

***

Minister has frigg-all to do


‘Wasting sanitary pads to mock rivals’: Wanita DAP slams veterans’ protest as disrespectful to women





‘Wasting sanitary pads to mock rivals’: Wanita DAP slams veterans’ protest as disrespectful to women



Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching reportedly said the move reinforced harmful stigma surrounding menstruation. — Bernama pic

Monday, 04 Aug 2025 9:39 AM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 4 — Wanita DAP has reportedly criticised the Negeri Sembilan DAP Veterans Club for using sanitary pads as gimmicks during a protest against the party’s leadership, calling the act inappropriate and disrespectful to women.

According to Malaysiakini, Wanita DAP chief and Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said she did not agree with the move, as the move reinforced harmful stigma surrounding menstruation.


“Using sanitary pads as tools of attack or ridicule only reinforces the shame and stigma long associated with menstruation,” she was quoted as saying.

Teo also reportedly pointed to the reality of period poverty in Malaysia, noting that some students are forced to miss school due to their inability to afford menstrual products.


“And yet, here they are wasting large quantities of sanitary pads just to mock their political rivals," she reportedly said.



The Negeri Sembilan DAP Veterans Club reportedly staged a protest yesterday over the appointment of Johor native Vincent Wu as senator, criticising the decision as a betrayal of local interests.

During the protest, members wore custom-made masks made from sanitary pads to symbolise what they described as the state leadership’s silence on the matter.


Lee Kong Hing, the club’s chariman, reportedly described the masks as being thick, dense, highly absorbent, and and soundproof — qualities he reportedly said “perfectly symbolise how seamlessly silent the state leadership is”.

In a Facebook post last night, the Federal Territories wing of Wanita DAP condemned the act, urging party members to uphold dignity and engage in respectful discourse.

“The menstrual pad is not a tool for personal gain or internal protest,” read the post.

“It represents the lived experiences of millions of women, and should not be exploited to make a political point, especially within our own party,” it added.

Works minister says RM4b needed for federal road maintenance, but only 30pc usually approved





Works minister says RM4b needed for federal road maintenance, but only 30pc usually approved



Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi reportedly said that the funding gap makes it difficult for the ministry to ensure all roads under its care are adequately maintained. — Picture by Choo Choy May

Monday, 04 Aug 2025 9:56 AM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 4 — Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi has reportedly said his ministry needs up to RM4 billion annually to properly maintain federal roads, but typically receives only around 30 per cent of that amount in yearly budget allocations.

According to Berita Harian, Nanta said that the funding gap makes it difficult for the ministry to ensure all roads under its care are adequately maintained.


“If possible, we hope that gap can be narrowed because we need more funds for this purpose,” he was quoted as saying during a Borak Harini podcast episode yesterday.

Nanta reportedly added that the RM4 billion is needed not only for repairs, but also to rebuild ageing road infrastructure.


In the 2025 federal budget, the Works Ministry received RM10.35 billion in total, marking a nine per cent increase from 2024.

Nanta also reportedly said that KKR plans to implement the Multi-Lane Fast Flow (MLFF) system to streamline toll payments, though a timeline has yet to be set.


Sunday, August 03, 2025

5 foreigners nabbed for stealing cash by putting a spell on tourists



FMT:

5 foreigners nabbed for stealing cash by putting a spell on tourists



The five Middle Eastern nationals allegedly stole money from foreign tourists in the Pulau Tikus or Penang Road areas of George Town



Police said the five suspects stole the cash of foreign tourists in George Town after approaching them for a conversation. (Bernama pic)



PETALING JAYA: Five Middle Eastern nationals have been arrested after complaints of thefts of cash from foreign tourists in the Pulau Tikus and Penang Road areas of George Town.

Police said the victims were tourists from Taiwan, the Netherlands and Syria, aged between 29 and 52. They were allegedly “put under a spell” (pukau) when their money was stolen, Bernama reported.


Alwi Zainal Abidin.


Acting state police chief Alwi Zainal Abidin said the suspects would approach foreign tourists for a conversation before asking them to reveal what cash they had.

“The suspects would then discreetly take the money and leave the scene. The victims only realised their money was gone after the suspects had left,” he said.

Alwi said the five suspects were a married couple, two men and a woman, all aged between 19 and 35, who were detained at the Gurney Plaza area. They have been remanded for four days.

Police also seized multiple foreign currencies, two vehicles, and a packet of cannabis. Two of the suspects tested positive for THC, a compound found in cannabis.

Alwi advised the public to be vigilant when dealing with unknown individuals, and to safeguard their valuables at all times.


***


Bet you the women performed Salome-ish Dances of the Seven Veils for the "bewitched" tourists who were then fleeced by the males, wakakaka.





After 25 years and countless moves, Malaysia finally gets its first chess Grandmaster





After 25 years and countless moves, Malaysia finally gets its first chess Grandmaster



Yeoh Li Tian, a 25-year-old prodigy from Petaling Jaya, officially earned the coveted GM title after securing his third norm and surpassing the 2500 FIDE rating mark by winning the GM-IM Invitational Chess Championship 2025 held here today. — Picture via Facebook/Yeoh Li Tian

Sunday, 03 Aug 2025 6:44 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 3 — For the first time in the nation’s history, Malaysia can proudly call one of its own a Grandmaster (GM), the highest title awarded in the world of chess.

Yeoh Li Tian, a 25-year-old prodigy from Petaling Jaya, officially earned the coveted GM title after securing his third norm and surpassing the 2500 FIDE rating mark by winning the GM-IM Invitational Chess Championship 2025 held here today.

The title, awarded by the International Chess Federation (FIDE), is a lifelong honour and places Li Tian among an elite group of fewer than 2,000 Grandmasters worldwide.

Speaking to Bernama, Li Tian, who began playing chess at the age of three, admitted that his journey was long and grueling, marked by sacrifices and perseverance.


“I always tell people that I have no childhood. So I guess that that will be my biggest sacrifice. Since young, like even in primary school, I go to school, come back, do my homework and then I start working on chess,” he said.



When asked about achieving the GM title on home soil, he said the moment was even more meaningful after narrowly missing the opportunity during the 2022 SEA Games in Hanoi.

“I felt really relieved and happy to actually get my last norm back in Malaysia. I hope that it inspires more chess players to play chess,” he added.


Looking ahead, Li Tian remains uncertain about his next steps but hinted that he might compete in the upcoming SEA Games in Thailand at the end of this year.

“Malaysia Chess Federation (MCF) already approached me for this SEA Games. I think there’s a high chance that I will be playing,” he said.

Meanwhile, MCF President Akhramsyah Muammar Ubaidah Sanusi described Li Tian’s achievement as a historic milestone in the nation’s chess history.

He added that the MCF is now more determined than ever to nurture and produce more Malaysian GM, with the goal of elevating and strengthening the local chess scene.

“I feel the achievement is a new positive and healthy development for the game of chess in the country.

“We do not want this achievement to stop here and if can, we want more GM from Malaysia to emerge, just like ehat has been produced by neighbouring countries like Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines,” he said. — Bernama


***


Hope one political party doesn't view Yeoh Li Tian's achievement as portending a near-future Chinese PM of Malaysia  😂😂😂


Egyptian TV: Six more die of hunger in Gaza as two trucks reach border for rare fuel delivery





Egyptian TV: Six more die of hunger in Gaza as two trucks reach border for rare fuel delivery



A fuel tanker awaits permission on the Egyptian side of the Rafah crossing with the Gaza Strip, to drive toward the besieged Palestinians territory on August 3, 2025. — AFP pic

Sunday, 03 Aug 2025 6:37 PM MYT


  • No immediate word whether two fuel trucks have entered Gaza from Egypt
  • Six more Palestinians die of starvation or malnutrition in past 24 hours, raising toll to 175, Gaza health ministry says
  • Israel has eased food aid access to Gaza; UN says far more deliveries needed to ease hunger
  • Israeli fire kills 40 people in Gaza today, some while trying to reach aid hubs, medics say


CAIRO, Aug 3 — Six more people died of starvation and malnutrition in Gaza over the past 24 hours, its health ministry said, underlining the enclave’s humanitarian emergency as Egyptian state TV said two trucks were set to make a rare delivery of fuel today.

The new deaths raised the toll of those dying from what international humanitarian agencies say may be an unfolding famine to 175, including 93 children, since the war began, the ministry said.


Egypt’s state-affiliated Al Qahera News TV said two trucks carrying 107 tons of diesel were set to enter Gaza, months after Israel severely restricted aid access to the enclave before easing it somewhat as starvation began to spread.

Gaza’s health ministry has said fuel shortages have severely impaired hospital services, forcing doctors to focus on treating only critically ill or injured patients. There was no immediate confirmation whether the fuel trucks had indeed entered Gaza.


Fuel shipments have been rare since March, when Israel restricted the flow of aid and goods into the enclave in what it said was pressure on Hamas militants to free the remaining hostages they took in their October 2023 attack on Israel.


Israel blames Hamas for the suffering in Gaza but, in response to a rising international outcry, it announced steps last week to let more aid reach the population, including pausing fighting for part of the day in some areas, approving air drops and announcing protected routes for aid convoys.

United Nations agencies have said that airdrops of food are insufficient and that Israel must let in far more aid by land and open up access to the war-devastated territory where starvation has been spreading.


Cogat, the Israeli military agency that coordinates aid, said 35 trucks have entered Gaza since June, nearly all of them in July.


Looted aid trucks

The Hamas-run Gaza government media office said today that nearly 1,600 aid trucks had arrived since Israel eased restrictions late in July. However, witnesses and Hamas sources said many of those trucks have been looted by desperate displaced people and armed gangs.

More than 700 trucks of fuel entered the Gaza Strip in January and February during a ceasefire before Israel broke it in March in a dispute over terms for extending it and resumed its major offensive.

Palestinian local health authorities said at least 40 people had been killed by Israeli gunfire and airstrikes across the coastal enclave on Sunday. Deaths included persons trying to make their way to aid distribution points in southern and central areas of Gaza, Palestinian medics said.

Among those killed was a staff member of the Palestinian Red Crescent Society, which said an Israeli strike at their headquarters in Khan Younis in southern Gaza ignited a fire on the first floor of the building.

The Gaza war began when Hamas killed more than 1,200 people and took 251 hostages in a cross-border attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, according to Israeli figures. Israel’s air and ground war in densely populated Gaza has since killed more than 60,000 Palestinians, according to enclave health officials.

According to Israeli officials, 50 hostages now remain in Gaza, only 20 of whom are believed to be alive. — Reuters

NGO denies Kedah rally aimed to oust Sanusi as MB


FMT:

NGO denies Kedah rally aimed to oust Sanusi as MB



Suara Anak Kedah says the Himpunan Honggaq Kedah rally will be held to pressure the state government to resolve 10 issues affecting the people


The Suara Anak Kedah group said the rally is not a personal attack on menteri besar Sanusi Nor, but a critique of his government.



PETALING JAYA: An NGO today denied that a gathering it is planning to hold later this month will demand for Sanusi Nor to resign as Kedah menteri besar, contrary to such claims.

Instead it will be calling for the PAS-led state government to resolve 10 issues that were affecting the people, Suara Anak Kedah said.

But its director, Sulaiman Ibrahim, said these issues will only be revealed on the day of the protest, scheduled for Aug 24 at Wisma Darul Aman, Berita Harian reported.


“For the time being, we will not reveal our demands to avoid it being politicised,” he was quoted as saying.

However, Sulaiman said that at least two of the issues they intend to raise may require independent investigations, including a proposal to establish a royal commission of inquiry.


He said that despite the gathering being called “Himpunan Honggaq Kedah”, the NGO was not out to topple the state government or political leaders, as with an anti-Anwar Ibrahim rally held in Kuala Lumpur last weekend.

The word “honggaq” means “to shake” in the Kedah dialect.

“We just want to shake things up so that they realise (the issues) and take action. This is not a personal attack on the menteri besar, but a critique of his administration,” he said.

The Turun Anwar rally was attended by about 18,000 people, according to police; it was organised by PAS and held to demand that Anwar step down as prime minister.

Recently, another group, Gabungan Teksi SeMalaysia, said it will be organising a counter rally at Dataran Merdeka on Sept 27 to express support for Anwar.


Israel kills over 20 in Gaza amid rising starvation deaths


al Jazeera:


Israel kills over 20 in Gaza amid rising starvation deaths