Jason Lo loses lawsuit against Bernama

 Jason Lo loses lawsuit against Bernama

Bernama

Mei 31, 2023 

The judge ruled that the court found no malice in regard to the articles as claimed by Jason Jonathan Lo. - BERNAMA/Filepic

Jason Lo loses lawsuit against Bernama

The judge ruled that the court found no malice in regard to the articles as claimed by Jason Jonathan Lo. - BERNAMA/Filepic

KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court here has dismissed a defamation suit filed by former chief executive officer of a local telecommunications company, Jason Jonathan Lo, against the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) over two articles published in 2019 and 2020.

Judicial Commissioner (JC) Datuk Raja Ahmad Mohzanuddin Shah Raja Mohzan, in his decision delivered yesterday, ruled that the court found no malice in regard to the articles as claimed by the plaintiff (Jason).

"In regard to the first impugned article, reading as a whole would lead to the conclusion that the plaintiff was charged separately in different Magistrate's Courts with trespassing and injecting drugs. The court finds that after reading the first impugned article in its entirety, the plaintiff did not appear to have trespassed into a house only to inject drugs.

"Regarding the use of injecting drug into body, as opposed to consuming self-administering drugs, it is important to note that the first impugned article was only designed to inform the public that Jason had been charged with the drug offence under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.

"In fact, it was clear from the said article that the plaintiff had pleaded not guilty to both charges and had been released on bail," said Raja Ahmad Mohzanuddin.

On the second impugned article, the court found that after reading the entire article, it appears from the very beginning that the plaintiff did not plead guilty to the charge and the article stated clearly that the plaintiff was accused of criminal breach of trust (CBT) but no assignment of guilt was made to him.

"Furthermore, the article specifically stated that the plaintiff had been released on RM30,000 bail. Reasonably, this would not conclude that the plaintiff admitted to this offence. Taking the entire article into account, it negates any understanding that the plaintiff confessed to the crime," he said.

He said that anyone reading the entire text would recognise that the plaintiff had only been charged but had not yet been proven of committing the crime.

"Reading the second article in full, the court finds that the act of reporting that Jason has been charged with certain offences and alleged to have committed a certain crime, cannot be defamatory," he said and ordered the plaintiff to pay RM15,000 in costs to the news agency.

The court made the ruling after hearing evidence from Jason as a plaintiff and three witnesses from the defendant.

The matter was confirmed by counsel Adam Luqman Amdan, representing Bernama.

-- BERNAMA

Diana Danielle denies receiving eight rings from Farid Kamal

 Diana Danielle denies receiving eight rings from Farid Kamal

According to Diana, 32, she was not comfortable with the statement made by Farid to the media

May 31, 2023 

According to Diana, 32, she was not comfortable with the statement made by Farid to the media at the Petaling Syariah Lower Court, Subang Bestari, on Tuesday 

ACTRESS Diana Danielle denied the claims of her husband, Farid Kamil, 42, 

"Actually, I did not receive the 'eight rings'. He gave it to the son and told to hand it over to me.

"I once rejected the ring through a lawyer, but he used his son and asked him to hand it over to me," he said.

In the same partnership, the mother of two children reminded Farid not to repeat the action and use the children as an intermediary.

"So, now people know about the matter, so please don't give any gifts through the children anymore," he said.

Earlier Farid told that he still wanted to defend the family he built with Diana for the past 11 years. In fact, the famous actor said, Diana also received his gifts in the form of six rings and two necklaces handed down through his children.

KKM harap RUU kawalan produk merokok dibentang awal Jun ini

 KKM harap RUU kawalan produk merokok dibentang awal Jun ini

Bernama

Mei 31, 2023 

Ia merangkumi kawalan terhadap produk merokok termasuk rokok elektronik atau vape serta pelaksanaan peruntukan Generasi Penamat Rokok. -Gambar fail/Bernama

KKM harap RUU kawalan produk merokok dibentang awal Jun ini

Ia merangkumi kawalan terhadap produk merokok termasuk rokok elektronik atau vape serta pelaksanaan peruntukan Generasi Penamat Rokok. -Gambar fail/Bernama

MELAKA: Kementerian Kesihatan (KKM) berharap Rang Undang-Undang (RUU) Kawalan Produk Merokok Demi Kesihatan Awam 2023 yang akan mengawal selia semua produk merokok termasuk bahan merokok mengandungi nikotin yang digunakan untuk tujuan merokok, dibentangkan pada persidangan Parlimen awal Jun ini.

Timbalan Menteri Kesihatan Lukanisman Awang Sauni berkata RUU berkenaan sangat penting bagi melindungi kesihatan generasi muda dan ia merangkumi dua perkara utama iaitu kawalan terhadap produk merokok termasuk rokok elektronik atau vape serta pelaksanaan peruntukan Generasi Penamat Rokok.

"RUU berkenaan sebelum ini tidak sempat dibentangkan dalam sidang Parlimen sebelum ini kerana berlaku pembubaran kerajaan sebelum ini namun KKM akan memastikan komitmen untuk membawa RUU Kawalan Produk Merokok Demi Kesihatan Awam 2023 bagi bacaan kali pertama akan dibentangkan dalam persidangan Parlimen yang akan diadakan selepas cuti Hari Kaamatan dan Hari Gawai.

"Menteri Kesihatan Dr Zaliha Mustafa juga telah membawa kertas RUU berkenaan ke Kabinet pada minggu lepas dan saya dimaklumkan Kabinet telah bersetuju untuk KKM membawa RUU berkenaan untuk bacaan kali pertama," katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian kepada pemberita selepas merasmikan Majlis Sambutan Hari Tembakau Sedunia 2023 Peringkat Kebangsaan yang turut dihadiri Exco Kesihatan, Sumber Manusia dan Perpaduan negeri Ngwe Hee Sem dan Pengarah Kesihatan Pengarah Kesihatan negeri Datuk Dr Rusdi Abd Rahman.

Mengulas lanjut, Lukanisman berkata pelaksanaan RUU berkenaan perlu disegerakan kerana berdasarkan Kajian Kesihatan dan Morbiditi Kebangsaan (NHMS), pengguna rokok elektrik dalam kalangan remaja di negara ini mencatatkan peningkatan sebanyak 14.9 peratus kepada 307,109 orang pada tahun lepas berbanding 9.8 peratus atau 211,084 orang pada 2017.

Beliau berkata berdasarkan jumlah statistik pada tahun lepas, sebanyak 242,849 pengguna terdiri dalam kalangan remaja lelaki manakala 64,260 orang adalah remaja perempuan.

"Peningkatan jumlah pengguna rokok elektronik dalam kalangan remaja amat membimbangkan, justeru bagi mengatasi isu dan masalah penggunaan produk merokok terutama dalam kalangan kanak-kanak dan remaja, kawalan undang-undang perlu diperkukuh melalui RUU berkenaan.

"Ini kerana remaja dan kanak-kanak pada masa kini sangat terdedah dengan lambakan dan tarikan pelbagai jenis produk merokok dan menerusi RUU berkenaan ia diharap dapat mencegah generasi muda daripada memulakan tabiat merokok," katanya.

-- BERNAMA

Xpats Gateway: Expatriate work permit application shortened from 80 to 5 days - Rafizi

Xpats Gateway: Expatriate work permit application shortened from 80 to 5 days - Rafizi

BERNAMA

Rafizi said phase one involves the development of the Xpats Gateway System by TalentCorp and for agencies that are ready to use the system, will start implementing it on June 15.

May 31, 2023 

Xpats Gateway: Expatriate work permit application shortened from 80 to 5 days - Rafizi

Rafizi said phase one involves the development of the Xpats Gateway System by TalentCorp and for agencies that are ready to use the system, will start implementing it on June 15. - Picture/ Shahir Omar/ Astro AWANI

PUTRAJAYA: The new system for the expatriate employment pass process, Xpats Gateway, will shorten the work permit application process from more than 80 days to just five working days, said Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli.

In a press conference after the Platform Meeting of the Special Task Force on Business Facilitation (Pemudah) Number 3/2023 here today, he said the system in question using a single window approach will start to be implemented in phases from 15 June.

"This integrated system concept is part of the government's efforts to reform the government system, so that it is more user-friendly and saves processing time in government affairs," he said.

Rafizi said phase one involves the development of the Xpats Gateway System by TalentCorp and for agencies that are ready to use the system, will start implementing it on June 15.

The second phase involves agencies such as the Malaysian Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and the Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA), which already have existing systems and only need integration to enable it to be implemented by August 15 next.

Meanwhile, Rafizi said the Pemudah meeting today agreed that the country's cleaning and washing industry should be given a new lease of life through contract restructuring involving changing the contract method from one based on the number of employees to one based on performance.

"With performance-based contract implementation, contractors must comply with certain criteria including productivity improvement plans, innovation, and technology, in addition to other criteria and contractors will be evaluated according to monthly scores and will be paid according to the performance achieved," he said.

He said the government will start a pilot project of the new method, within the next two months in places with a big impact before implementing it nationwide.

"The restructuring of this contract method, is able to transform the industry into a highly skilled and technology-based industry, and attract the interest of local workers to be involved in the industry," he said.

-- BERNAMA

1MDB suspect Kee Kok Thiam and accomplice of Jho Low has died of sudden stroke, confirm lawyers

1MDB suspect and Jho Low associate dies weeks after questioning

Kee’s death comes after anti-graft body said he had confirmed the whereabouts of Malaysian financier Jho Taek Low.
Some $4.5bn is believed to have been stolen from Malaysia’s sovereign wealth fund 1MDB [File:

AL JAZEERA
Published On 31 May 202331 May 2023



A suspect in the 1MDB scandal has died weeks after being deported to Malaysia to face questioning over his role in the $4.5bn fraud.

Kee Kok Thiam died in hospital on Monday following a “sudden massive stroke” and was cremated on Wednesday morning, Kee’s family said in a statement.

“We urge all parties not to entertain any speculations on this unfortunate event and allow the family the space to grief [sic] on his passing,” the statement said.

News of the 56-year-old businessman’s death comes hours after Al Jazeera reported that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) had confirmed the whereabouts of fugitive Malaysian financier Jho Taek Low – the alleged mastermind of the 1MDB scandal – in Macau based on its questioning of Kee.

The MACC said that Kee, who was deported from Macau earlier this month, revealed he had met with Low and other 1MDB fugitives in the Chinese territory and that Low had instructed him “not to return to Malaysia as a witness in the 1MDB case”.

Low disappeared in 2016 as authorities from Singapore to Australia and the United States closed in on the theft of billions of dollars from Malaysia’s sovereign wealth fund.

A source at the MACC, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told Al Jazeera that Kee was not under the protection of authorities as he was still considered a suspect. The source said no negotiations had taken place as to information he would be willing to divulge to receive protection.

Kee was released without charge after being questioned by MACC officers earlier this month.

SOURCE: AL JAZEERA

Pix credit: Social media


PETALING JAYA: The cause of death of an alleged accomplice of Low Taek Jho or Jho Low was due to a massive sudden stroke.

According to his lawyers, Kee Kok Thiam, a suspect in the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal passed away in a hospital on May 29.

Based on a Malay Mail report, law firm Valen, Oh & Partners said: “Reference is made to media articles on Mr Kee’s passing away and the circumstances.

“We urge all parties not to entertain any speculation on this unfortunate event and allow the family the space to grieve on his passing,” said the legal firm today (May 31).

The daily was tipped off yesterday (May 30) after receiving an obituary that showed a wake service for Kee, and followed by a funeral service today at the Kepong Crematorium.

The 56-year-old had reportedly met Jho Low in Macau alongside a few other fugitives linked to the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) controversy.

THE SUN

16 Year Old Malaysian Muay Thai teenage sensation knocks out 2 time World Champion winning RM46,000

Muaythai teenage sensation Muhammad Johan Ghazali reaching for the stars

Muhammad Johan or better known as ‘Jojo’ delivered another awe-inspiring performance in the ONE Championship on Friday. — Photo via Facebook/Muhammad Johan Ghazali

BANGKOK (May 29): Despite his young age of just 16, Muay Thai exponent Muhammad Johan Ghazali Zulfikar is fueled by an ambitious dream – to attain the prestigious ONE Championship contract of US$100,000 (RM460,553) and secure the highly coveted championship belt.

Continuing his remarkable journey in the ONE Championship, Muhammad Johan or better known as ‘Jojo’ delivered another awe-inspiring performance in the ONE Championship on Friday.

The young Sarawakian fighter left the crowd spellbound as he unleashed a spectacular knockout blow, leaving his opponent, Tai Sor Jor Piek Uthai, 24, a two-time Lumpinee Stadium Muay Thai World Champion, stunned.

“My target is to get the ONE Championship contract of USD100,000 but my ultimate goal is to be ONE Championship champion,” he told Bernama.

Johan, who represents Rentap Muay Thai Club, also bagged 350,000 baht (RM46,000) for his second knockout in a row. In February, Johan stunned fans in his promotional debut where he took just 16 seconds to knockout his 18-year-old Thai opponent, Padetsuk Fairtex, in their flyweight clash.

“I feel that the ONE Championship belt is bound for me. I am the future,” he told the crowd at the Lumpinee Stadium after winning the fight.

Undeterred by the bleeding cut on his head and the persistent taunting from Tai, who provocatively stuck his tongue out, Johan’s punches continued to rain down with relentless force.

With a powerful left hook-right overhand combo, he delivered a devastating blow that left his opponent down and out.

“Aware of the bleeding cut, I was mindful that the referee could halt the fight at any moment. With that in mind, I exerted every ounce of my effort to secure a swift victory” he said.

On his ambition to secure the ONE Championship contract and belt, Johan spoke of the doubts of those who doubted his talents.

“Many years ago, people deemed my dream of competing in the ONE Championship as grandiose. That dream has become a reality.

“Now, I pursue new goals. I understand that skepticism may arise once again. Nevertheless, I am fully committed to giving my absolute best and proving those skeptics wrong,” he said.

He thanked his parents and coach Addy Singpayak for their unwavering support through the highs and lows of his journey in the last six years. — Bernama

NUSHIRWAN APPOINTED AS NEW NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL D-G

NUSHIRWAN APPOINTED AS NEW NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL D-G

Raja Datuk Nushirwan Zainal Abidin

30/05/2023 04:45 PM

PUTRAJAYA, May 30 (Bernama) -- Datuk Raja Nushirwan Zainal Abidin has been appointed as the National Security Council director-general effective today.

The announcement was made by the Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali via a press statement today.

Raja Nushirwan, 53, who was previously the Malaysian Ambassador to China, began his career in the government as an administrative and diplomatic officer on March 21, 1994, attached with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

He has extensive experience in public service, specialising in international relations.

Raja Nushirwan holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics from Abertay University, Dundee, Scotland, and has been assigned to various countries including the United States, Sweden, and Singapore.

"May his appointment as the National Security director-general will drive the National Security Council towards excellence in leading the formulation and management of the national security policy that is comprehensive, integrated and effective to ensure the country remains peaceful, prosperous and sovereign," said Mohd Zuki in the statement.

-- BERNAMA

PROF DR AZLINDA AZMAN APPOINTED NEW HIGHER EDUCATION DG

 PROF DR AZLINDA AZMAN APPOINTED NEW HIGHER EDUCATION DG

Prof Dr Azlinda Azman

31/05/2023 05:20 PM

PUTRAJAYA, May 31 (Bernama) -- Prof Dr Azlinda Azman has been appointed as the new Higher Education director-general effective today until May 30, 2025, the Higher Education Ministry (KPT) announced. 

Azlinda, 55, who was previously Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) deputy vice-chancellor (Student Development Affairs and Alumni) replaces Prof Datuk Dr Husaini Omar who went on mandatory retirement on March 10.

KPT, in a statement today, said Azlinda is a respected academic and researcher in the field of social work at the national and international levels.

The  National Joint Council Committee  on  Social Work Education Malaysia chairman and Convenor of the AIDS Action and Research Group (AARG), USM since 2011 was awarded the Social Work Academic Icon by the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development in 2021.

Azlinda is also one of the few individuals selected and awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to pursue doctoral studies in Clinical Social Work at New York University (NYU) in the United States.

“With a record of leadership and excellent educational achievements, the ministry is confident that Azlinda's appointment will be able to boost the performance of the Higher Education Department to a higher level and also strengthen the higher education ecosystem centred on excellence,” the statement read. 

-- BERNAMA

RODZI MD SAAD APPOINTED NEW MAMPU DG

 RODZI MD SAAD APPOINTED NEW MAMPU DG

Datuk Rodzi Md Saad (Credit: MAMPU JABATAN PERDANA MENTERI Facebook)

30/05/2023 05:51 PM

KUALA LUMPUR, May  30  (Bernama) --  Datuk Rodzi  Md Saad has been appointed as the  Malaysian Administrative Modernisation and Management Planning Unit (MAMPU) director-general, effective today.

MAMPU, in a statement, said Rodzi, 59, replaces Datuk Seri Dr Yusof Ismail.

“Rodzi has served in the public service for 33 years and has extensive experience in various fields, including security and disaster management,” the statement read.

He had previously served as National Security Council director-general since July 15, 2021.

Rodzi holds a Master’s degree in Media and Information Warfare Studies from Universiti Teknologi MARA and Bachelor’s degree in Demography and Population Studies from Universiti Malaya.

MAMPU also expressed its highest gratitude and thanks to Yusof for his contributions and services to the agency.

Meanwhile, in a separate statement, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali congratulated Rodzi on his appointment.

“Hopefully, his appointment as MAMPU director-general will drive the agency’s excellence in leading the modernisation of public service delivery through innovation and digitalisation,” he said.

-- BERNAMA

PENANG A SOVEREIGN STATE WITH INDISPUTABLE LEGALITY - RAMKARPAL

 PENANG A SOVEREIGN STATE WITH INDISPUTABLE LEGALITY - RAMKARPAL

30/05/2023

09:50 PM

KUALA LUMPUR, May 30 (Bernama) -- Penang is a sovereign state in the Federation of Malaysia and its legal position cannot be disputed.

Deputy Minister in Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Ramkarpal Singh stated that since British rule, Penang has been acknowledged as a straits state under the grouping known as the Straits Settlements.

“Subsequently, several agreements signed between Kedah and the British had also clearly acknowledged Penang and Province Wellesley (mainland Penang) as a sovereign state.

“The agreements include the Agreement between His Britannic Majesty’s Government and the State of Kedah, 1923; the Federation of Malaya Agreement 1948 dan the Federation of Malaya Agreement 1957,” he said in a statement, adding that Kedah Menteri Besar Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor’s claim that Penang belonged to Kedah was baseless.

Muhammad Sanusi was reported to have claimed yesterday that Kedah and Penang had no borders as Penang belonged to Kedah and that Kedah had borders with only Perak and Perlis.

Ramkarpal said the Federation of Malaya Agreement 1957 also clearly stated that Penang was a part of the Federated States of Malaya as a separate state from Kedah.

Detailing the matter, he said the formation of the Federated States of Malaya was based on the Federal Constitution of 1957 and it was undeniable that Penang was acknowledged as a state under the Federated States of Malaya in Article 1(2) of the Federal Constitution.

Furthermore, Article 71(1) of the Federal Constitution, which is read together with Schedule Eight of the Constitution also guarantees every state has their own state constitution that provides ways to manage the state government, including Penang.

“In addition, there are other provisions in the Federal Constitution that states that Penang is a sovereign state since the formation of the Federated States of Malaya and the Federation of Malaysia.

“No objection was ever raised by any party, including the Kedah state government, that Penang was owned by Kedah,” he said.

As such, the Federal Constitution, which is the highest law of the country, must be respected by all Malaysians.

-- BERNAMA

Misconduct cases can tarnish image of KKDW - Ahmad Zahid

 Misconduct cases can tarnish image of KKDW - Ahmad Zahid

Bernama

Mei 30, 2023 

DPM Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi delivered a speech at the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development's (KKDW) 2022 Outstanding Service and Appreciation ceremony today. - BERNAMA

Misconduct cases can tarnish image of KKDW - Ahmad Zahid

DPM Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi delivered a speech at the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development's (KKDW) 2022 Outstanding Service and Appreciation ceremony today. - BERNAMA

PUTRAJAYA: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said that the arrest of a South Kelantan Development Authority (Kesedar) officer, believed to be in connection with a recent criminal breach of trust case, can affect the image of the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW).

Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, said the ministry will not compromise on the aspect of integrity.

He said such misconduct must be prevented from recurring because the ministry is an agency that is close to the people, especially those in rural areas.

"Just because of one person, the perception of the organisation will turn negative. We cannot compromise on issues regarding integrity involving corruption, breach of trust, embezzlement or personal interests," he said during his speech at the KKDW 2022 Excellent Service and Appreciation ceremony, here, today.

On Saturday (May 27), the media reported the arrest of an assistant accountant of Kesedar, an agency under KKDW, to assist in investigations into a criminal breach of trust case involving a loss of RM24.8 million.

Preliminary investigations found that the act was carried out from 2016 to May 2023 involving 194 money transactions from Kesedar's Development Fund and Trust Fund accounts to the accounts of companies owned by the suspect, totalling RM24,800,189.73.

While praising the achievements of the KKDW since he took over the ministry seven months ago, Ahmad Zahid said the momentum must be maintained and improved to ensure it is one of the best ministries.

"I hope all of you in KKDW will continue to maintain the culture and momentum of excellence to ensure the ministry continues to excel and becomes a driver of change in developing communities in the villages," he said.

He also urged high-performing employees to help their low-performing colleagues to emulate their good work practices and characteristics in carrying out their tasks.

"This can be done via mentoring as well as guidance from supervisors, department heads and high-performing officers in the organisation," he said.

-- BERNAMA

KING, PRINCE ALBERT II ATTEND MONACO F1 GRAND PRIX GALA DINNER

 

Keberangkatan baginda turut diiringi Puteri Charlene of Monaco dengan kehadiran sama paduka-paduka anakanda Seri Paduka. - Gambar FB Istana Negara

KING, PRINCE ALBERT II ATTEND MONACO F1 GRAND PRIX GALA DINNER

Pix credit: FB Istana Negara

31/05/2023 12:00 AM

KUALA LUMPUR, May 30 (Bernama) -- Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah attended the 2023 Monaco Formula 1 Grand

Prix Gala Dinner at Sporting de Monaco on Sunday (28 Mei).

His Majesty was accompanied by his children at the dinner, which was also graced by Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene of Monaco, according to a Facebook

post by Istana Negara.

Al-Sultan Abdullah had watched the Monaco F1 Grand Prix race together with Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene at Monaco F1 Main Circuit earlier that day.

His Majesty is currently on a special five-day visit to Monaco from May 26 to 30 at the invitation of Prince Albert II.

-- BERNAMA

MAHB kekal untung selepas merekodkan untung bersih suku pertama RM58.19 juta

 MAHB kekal untung selepas merekodkan untung bersih suku pertama RM58.19 juta

Bernama

Mei 31, 2023 

MAHB berkata hasilnya meningkat kepada RM1.03 bilion pada suku dalam tinjauan, berbanding RM570.85 juta tahun lepas, peningkatan sebanyak 81.2 peratus. - Gambar fail

MAHB kekal untung selepas merekodkan untung bersih suku pertama RM58.19 juta

MAHB berkata hasilnya meningkat kepada RM1.03 bilion pada suku dalam tinjauan, berbanding RM570.85 juta tahun lepas, peningkatan sebanyak 81.2 peratus. - Gambar fail

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) kekal untung selepas mencatatkan keuntungan bersih RM58.19 juta bagi suku pertama berakhir 31 Mac, 2023 (S1 TK2023), berbanding kerugian RM104.76 juta pada suku yang sama sebelumnya.

Ini selepas pengendali lapangan terbang itu kembali memperoleh keuntungan pada S4 TK2022, menamatkan kerugian pada 11 suku berturut-turut sebelum ini.

Dalam makluman kepada Bursa Malaysia pada Selasa, MAHB berkata hasilnya meningkat kepada RM1.03 bilion pada suku dalam tinjauan, berbanding RM570.85 juta tahun lepas, peningkatan sebanyak 81.2 peratus.

"Kumpulan mencatatkan keuntungan sebelum cukai sebanyak RM63.3 juta pada suku semasa dalam tinjauan didorong oleh hasil lebih tinggi, pendapatan lain dan kos kewangan yang lebih rendah bagi tempoh tersebut.

"Peningkatan hasil ini adalah sejajar dengan pertambahan ketara jumlah penumpang bagi kumpulan, didorong oleh protokol perjalanan yang dilonggarkan lagi dan penyambungan semula perkhidmatan penerbangan dan ketersambungan dengan pemulihan trafik yang menyaksikan jumlah trafik sebanyak 26.8 juta penumpang berbanding 14.7 juta penumpang pada suku yang sama tahun sebelumnya," katanya.

Secara keseluruhannya, MAHB berkata operasi di Malaysia telah mencatatkan peningkatan ketara dalam hasil sebanyak 131.5 peratus daripada RM273.1 juta kepada RM632.2 juta.

Mengenai prospek, MAHB berkata rangkaian trafik lapangan terbangnya terus menunjukkan pemulihan, dengan pergerakan penumpang suku pertama TK2023 menghampiri paras prapandemik, mencapai 80.2 peratus daripada paras suku pertama TK2019 dan mencatatkan 26.8 juta pergerakan penumpang, pertumbuhan sebanyak empat peratus berbanding S4 TK2022.

"Melangkah ke hadapan, memandangkan sekatan perjalanan terutamanya di wilayah seperti China, Jepun, dan Korea Selatan yang semakin dilonggarkan, dijangkakan 2023 akan mencapai pemulihan kira-kira 80-90 peratus daripada tahap prapandemik. Itupun jika tidak berlakunya keadaan diluar jangkaan.

"Namun begitu, cabaran dan ketidaktentuan terus kekal disebabkan ketidaktentuan geopolitik, kenaikan harga bahan api pesawat, prospek ekonomi makro tempatan dan global," katanya.

MAHB menambah tiada dividen dibayar atau diisytiharkan pada suku semasa dan pada tempoh kewangan dalam kajian sehingga kini. - BERNAMA

Untung bersih KPJ melonjak kepada RM51.9 juta bagi suku pertama

 Untung bersih KPJ melonjak kepada RM51.9 juta bagi suku pertama

Bernama

Mei 31, 2023

Keuntungan bersih KPJ Healthcare Bhd melonjak kepada RM51.90 juta bagi suku pertama berakhir 31 Mac, 2023 daripada RM22.14 juta yang direkodkan pada suku yang sama tahun kewangan 2022.

Untung bersih KPJ melonjak kepada RM51.9 juta bagi suku pertama

Keuntungan bersih KPJ Healthcare Bhd melonjak kepada RM51.90 juta bagi suku pertama berakhir 31 Mac, 2023 daripada RM22.14 juta yang direkodkan pada suku yang sama tahun kewangan 2022.

KUALA LUMPUR: Keuntungan bersih KPJ Healthcare Bhd melonjak kepada RM51.90 juta bagi suku pertama berakhir 31 Mac, 2023 daripada RM22.14 juta yang direkodkan pada suku yang sama tahun kewangan 2022.

Dalam kenyataan kepada Bursa Malaysia pada Selasa, KPJ menjelaskan, perolehan pula meningkat kepada RM828.98 juta daripada RM641.64 juta, kenaikan sebanyak 29 peratus, bagi tempoh yang sama.

"Keuntungan sebelum faedah, cukai, susut nilai dan pelunasan (EBITDA) bagi suku ini adalah sebanyak RM190.2 juta, 27 peratus lebih baik daripada RM150.3 juta yang dicatatkan pada suku sama sebelumnya.

"Keuntungan sebelum cukai pula menunjukkan prestasi cemerlang dengan RM77.6 juta, peningkatan sekali ganda daripada RM38.4 juta pada suku pertama tahun kewangan 2022. Prestasi yang lebih baik ini didorong terutama oleh prestasi daripada segmen Malaysia," jelasnya.

Menurut KPJ, perolehan lebih tinggi sebanyak RM828.98 juta bagi suku pertama tahun kewangan 2023 adalah susulan peningkatan lawatan pesakit dan kadar penghunian katil masing-masing kepada 821,126 pesakit daripada 786,421 pesakit dan 70 peratus daripada 48 peratus.

"Segmen Malaysia menyumbang peningkatan perolehan sebanyak RM182.1 juta pada suku ini kepada RM800.7 juta daripada RM618.6 juta pada suku pertama tahun kewangan 2022. Kenaikan ini mewakili 97 peratus daripada jumlah kenaikan bagi syarikat ini," tambahnya.

KPJ kekal optimis dengan potensi pertumbuhan segmen pelancongan kesihatan dengan lebih banyak ketibaan pelancong dijangka pada 2023.

"Kami menjangkakan penstabilan beransur-ansur bagi peningkatan pasaran domestik. Tumpuan kami kekal kepada inisiatif yang bertujuan meningkatkan kecekapan, kapasiti tambahan operasi yang diperkenalkan pada 2022, dan meningkatkan intensiti perolehan dengan menyediakan perkhidmatan khusus," menurutnya.

Dividen interim satu peringkat sebanyak 0.65 sen bagi setiap saham biasa yang akan dibayar pada 4 Julai, 2023. - BERNAMA

Proposal to build drag race circuit for RM20 mil in each state not feasible - Hannah

 Proposal to build drag race circuit for RM20 mil in each state not feasible - Hannah

Bernama

Mei 30, 2023

Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh during a press conference after the Sports Development Cabinet Committee Meeting at Bangunan Perdana Putra today. - BERNAMA

Proposal to build drag race circuit for RM20 mil in each state not feasible - Hannah

Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh during a press conference after the Sports Development Cabinet Committee Meeting at Bangunan Perdana Putra today. - BERNAMA

PUTRAJAYA: An allocation of RM20 million to every state for the purpose of building a drag race circuit as proposed by former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob would not be sufficient since the cost of maintenance would incur a big budget while aspects of security must also be given priority.

Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh said the allocation tabled by the previous government in the previous 2023 Budget was never debated and approved in Parliament and in fact there was also no input from the Ministry of Youth and Sports for the proposed project.

"Not only funds but to built a drag race circuit, a large plot of land is needed and approved by the respective state governments. In the current political situation, we have state governments that are headed by different parties.

"Therefore how can such an announcement be made and there be expectations for a rollout...not possible. The aspects of safety to drivers involved in motorsport is also very important to KBS.

"If just build a drag race circuit and safety aspects not taken into account and cost of maintenance not considered, it will not be a conducive environment for our young motorsport drivers," Hannah told reporters after attending a Cabinet Committee Meeting for Sports Development, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, here today.

Hannah added that despite the predicaments involving the drag circuit proposal, KBS will ensure motorsport will continue to be given attention whereby this year, there is a budget for motorsport programmes implemented by the Youth and Sports Department while the Sepang International Circuit will also receive an allocation to carry out programmes and upgrading purposes.

Speaking of the 'Road to Gold' (RTG) programme for badminton which is aimed at winning the country's first ever gold medal in the 2024 Paris Olympics, Hannah said there would be no changes in the list of players even though the world ranking of some players may drop, including National players who were shown the early exit in the Malaysia Masters.

The terms set to qualify for the RTG programme remains clear (that is former Olympic medallists and players who are in the top 10 ranking of the world in their respective sport).

"There are no badminton players in and out of the RTG programme because the qualifying terms are clear. To make it to the RTG programme, the athlete must be ranked among the top 10 in the world," she said.

Hannah added that dropping an athlete from the RTG programme is not easy because it requires discussions and advice from the technical advisors like Datuk Dr Ramlan Aziz, Josiah Ng and Datuk Lee Chong Wei.

Currently, the world ranking shows that National men's singles ace Lee Zii Jia is ranked world number 10, men's doubles pair Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik at world number three and Ong Yew Sin-Teo Ee Yi are at world number seven.

National women's champions Pearly Tan-M Thinaah are currently world number 11 but their ranking is expected to improve after emerging as runner-up in the Malaysia Masters.

Currently badminton players dominate the RTG programme with Zii Jia, Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik, Ong Yew Sin-Teo Ee Yii, Pearly Tan-M Thinaah, Tan Kian Meng-Lai Pei Jing and Goh Soon Huat-Shevon Lai (mixed doubles).

Apart from badminton, former Olympics silver medallist Datuk Azizulhasni Awang, Muhammad Shah Firdaus Sahrom (track cycling), Datuk Pandelela Rinong and Nur Dhabitah Sabri (diving) are also in the RTG programme.

-- BERNAMA

Farid Kamil refuses to divorce wife, case to continue with hakam process

 Farid Kamil refuses to divorce wife, case to continue with hakam process

Bernama

Mei 30, 2023 

Actor Farid Kamil has refused to divorce his wife, actress Diana Danielle at the Subang Bistari Lower Syariah Court here. - BERNAMA/Filepic

Farid Kamil refuses to divorce wife, case to continue with hakam process

Actor Farid Kamil has refused to divorce his wife, actress Diana Danielle at the Subang Bistari Lower Syariah Court here. - BERNAMA/Filepic

PETALING JAYA: Actor Farid Kamil has refused to divorce his wife, actress Diana Danielle at the Subang Bistari Lower Syariah Court here.

Syarie Judge Shukran Yusof said the report of the Conciliatory Committee (JKP) revealed a shiqaq or a prolonged dispute where both parties failed to reconcile and advised Farid to utter the talak (pronouncement of divorce) to his wife if he is ready but he refused.

"Because the defendant (Farid) disagreed (to utter talak), the court hereby orders this divorce case to continue with arbitration and the court set June 15 for the parties to appoint the hakam (arbitrators)," said Shukran.

Diana's counsel, syarie lawyer Datuk Akberdin Abdul Kader said since the outcome of the JKP report was negative, his party requested Farid (defendant) to utter the talak.

"If the defendant (Farid) refuses to pronounce talaq, we go to the next stage, which is hakam (arbitration)," he said.

Farid's lawyer Fakhrul Azman Abu Hassan objected to the hakam process as he was of the view that shiqaq did not occur, which was opposed by Akberdin who argued that the JKP report stated that shiqaq did occur as the couple had different opinions about their household and had not been living together since March.

The celebrity couple attended today's proceeding and Farid was accompanied by his parents Datuk Dr Zahari Che Dan and Datin Sharifah Bardah Syed Abdillah.

On March 10, Diana filed for divorce from Farid under Section 47 of the Islamic Family Law (State of Selangor) Enactment 2003 on the grounds that they have irreconcilable differences and there was a shiqaq and could no longer live together as husband and wife.

-- BERNAMA

COVID19: MOH is updating SOP, to make announcement soon

 COVID19: MOH is updating SOP, to make announcement soon

Bernama

Mei 30, 2023 

Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa said MOH is discussing the latest protection measures that will be implemented for the public in the near future even though COVID-19 is no longer a health emergency. - BERNAMA

COVID19: MOH is updating SOP, to make announcement soon

Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa said MOH is discussing the latest protection measures that will be implemented for the public in the near future even though COVID-19 is no longer a health emergency. - BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Health (MOH) is updating the standard operating procedures (SOP) of the COVID-19 which will be announced soon, according to Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa.

She said this follows the announcement by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on May 5, that decided that COVID-19 is no longer categorised as a global health emergency (PHEIC).

However, she advised the country's citizens to continue practicing the existing SOP and personal safety including wearing a face mask when in public places especially for those with symptoms, hand sanitation and personal hygiene.

"We at the Ministry of Health are discussing the latest protection measures that will be implemented for the public in the near future even though COVID-19 is no longer a health emergency of international interest or PHEIC," she said through a video uploaded on her Facebook page today.

Reportedly, the WHO decided that the COVID-19 pandemic, which has claimed more than 6.9 million lives worldwide, is no longer categorised as an international health emergency after it has been raging for the past three years.

-- BERNAMA

A Singaporean warden is accused of stomping on the stomach and punching four tahfiz students

 A Singaporean warden is accused of stomping on the stomach and punching four tahfiz students

Tertuduh, Muhammad Farhan Abdul Rashif mengaku tidak bersalah sejurus lima pertuduhan terhadapnya dibacakan di dua mahkamah berasingan.

May 30, 2023 

A Singaporean warden is accused of stomping on the stomach and punching four tahfiz students

The accused, Muhammad Farhan Abdul Rashif pleaded not guilty as soon as the five charges against him were read in two separate courts. - Astro AWANI's photo

AYER KEROH: A warden of a well-known tahfiz center in Melaka was brought before the Ayer Keroh Sessions Court today on charges of stomping on the stomach, slapping, punching and beating four of his students until they were injured since last February.

The accused, Muhammad Farhan Abdul Rashif, 35, however pleaded not guilty as soon as the five charges against him were read out in two separate courts before Judges Darmafikri Abu Adam and Mohd Sabri Ismail.

According to the two charges before Darmafikri, the accused as the person who has custody of his two students aged 14 years four months and 14 years 11 months is alleged to have exposed the youth to danger.

The victim was slapped and punched on the cheek, kicked on the stomach and stepped on the chest, while another suffered physical injuries on the right leg.

The offense was committed at a teacher's house in the tahfiz center in the Melaka Tengah district on May 7 and 8.

Therefore, the accused who is also a Singaporean can be sentenced to imprisonment of up to 20 years and a maximum fine of not more than RM50,000 according to Section 31(1)(a) of the Children Act 2001 and read together with 31(2) of the same act.

According to the charge, the accused, as a person with care, exposed the teenager to danger by slapping the victim's cheek and hitting the left side of the victim's body with a bamboo cane, while another stepped on his stomach.

The offense was committed in the surau and the tahfiz center's ball court in mid-February and May 10.

Earlier, the prosecution was handled by the Deputy Public Prosecutor, N svashangari and Muhammad Nazrin Ali Rahim did not propose any bail taking into account the safety factor of the victim.

The court then did not give any guarantee and set next June 26 as the re-mention of the case.

The accused is represented by lawyer Faathir Imran.

Warga emas ditahan disyaki ikat, heret anjing dengan kereta hingga mati

 Warga emas ditahan disyaki ikat, heret anjing dengan kereta hingga mati

Bernama

Mei 30, 2023

Tangkapan dilakukan terhadap pemilik anjing berusia 61 tahun itu kira-kira 10.05 malam semalam. -Video tular

Warga emas ditahan disyaki ikat, heret anjing dengan kereta hingga mati

Tangkapan dilakukan terhadap pemilik anjing berusia 61 tahun itu kira-kira 10.05 malam semalam. -Video tular

PORT DICKSON: Seorang lelaki warga emas disyaki menyebabkan kematian seekor anjing di Kampung Sri Parit, Lukut pada Sabtu ditahan pihak polis semalam.

Ketua Polis Daerah Port Dickson, Supt Aidi Sham Mohamed, berkata polis menerima aduan daripada seorang lelaki berusia 44 tahun yang melihat seekor anjing telah diperlakukan dengan kejam sehingga cedera dan berdarah.

"Pengadu telah melihat anjing tersebut diikat dan diheret dengan menggunakan kereta.

"Akibat kejadian itu, anjing tersebut telah mati," katanya dalam satu kenyataan di sini hari ini.

Katanya tangkapan dilakukan terhadap pemilik anjing berusia 61 tahun itu kira-kira 10.05 malam semalam di Pejabat Bahagian Siasatan Jenayah IPD Port Dickson dan direman sehari.

Kes disiasat mengikut Seksyen 428 Kanun Keseksaan.

-- BERNAMA

Hoki Piala Remaja Asia 2023: Young Tigers muncul juara Kumpulan B

 Hoki Piala Remaja Asia 2023: Young Tigers muncul juara Kumpulan B

Bernama

Mei 30, 2023

Skuad hoki remaja lelaki negara menamatkan saingan terakhir peringkat Kumpulan B Kejohanan Piala Remaja Asia 2023 di Salalah, Oman di kedudukan teratas selepas menewaskan tuan rumah 1-0, awal pagi tadi. -Gambar fail/Astro Arena

Hoki Piala Remaja Asia 2023: Young Tigers muncul juara Kumpulan B

Skuad hoki remaja lelaki negara menamatkan saingan terakhir peringkat Kumpulan B Kejohanan Piala Remaja Asia 2023 di Salalah, Oman di kedudukan teratas selepas menewaskan tuan rumah 1-0, awal pagi tadi. -Gambar fail/Astro Arena

KUALA LUMPUR: Skuad hoki remaja lelaki negara menamatkan saingan terakhir peringkat Kumpulan B Kejohanan Piala Remaja Asia 2023 di Salalah, Oman di kedudukan teratas selepas menewaskan tuan rumah 1-0, awal pagi tadi.

Pada aksi berlangsung di Kompleks Belia Sultan Qaboos itu, jaringan tunggal hasil pukulan sudut penalti Shahmie Irfan Suhaimi pada minit ke-48 muncul penyelamat bagi memastikan skuad negara terus mempertahankan rekod tanpa kalah di kejohanan itu.

Skuad muda negara sebelum ini menyingkap kempen kejohanan dengan bergaya selepas menewaskan Uzbekistan 8-1 diikuti menundukkan Bangladesh 5-1.

Skuad bimbingan Muhamad Amin Rahim bagaimanapun telah menempah tiket separuh akhir apabila menewaskan Korea Selatan 3-1 pada aksi ketiga kumpulan, Ahad lepas dan dijadual membuat perhitungan menentang Pakistan di separuh akhir esok.

Sementara itu, Muhamad Amin berkata kemenangan tipis dicatat anak buahnya pada perlawanan terakhir peringkat kumpulan menentang Oman, bukan sesuatu yang diinginkan selepas cemerlang meraih kemenangan bergaya dalam tiga perlawanan sebelum ini.

"Saya tidak berpuas hati dengan persembahan pemain apabila melepaskan beberapa peluang jaringan padang dan pukulan sudut penalti. Nampak pemain agak sambil lewa dan jika ia berterusan kita akan menghadapi masalah dalam menghadapi perlawanan separuh akhir nanti.

"Jadi harapan saya agar skuad ini dapat kembali menerapkan semangat juang yang sama pada tiga perlawanan sebelum ini untuk dibawa apabila kita bertemu Pakistan," katanya menerusi video dikongsi Konfederasi Hoki Malaysia (KHM) kepada media.

-- BERNAMA

The caretaker of the day care center was accused of abusing a boy

 The caretaker of the day care center was accused of abusing a boy

May 30, 2023

The accused was brought to the Johor Bahru Sessions Court on Tuesday.

JOHOR BAHRU: A custodian of a private childcare center was charged in the Johor Bahru Sessions Court here on Tuesday for abusing a three-year-old boy last week.

However, Ng Shu Tian, ​​24, pleaded not guilty after the charges were read before Sessions Court Judge Datuk Ahmad Kamal Arifin Ismail.

According to the charges, the accused is accused of abusing a three-year-old boy under her care in a manner likely to cause physical injury to the victim.

The accused is accused of committing the act at a private childcare center in Taman Molek here at 4pm on May 22.

The accused was charged in accordance with Section 31(1)(a) of the Children Act 2001.

The prosecution was handled by Deputy Public Prosecutor Umar Faiz Abdul Kohar, while the accused was represented by lawyers Chuah Shyue Chien and Ooi Hong Ming.

The court allowed the accused to be bailed at RM10,000 with one surety in addition to having to hand over his international passport to the court and report to Bukit Gambir Police Station, Muar every month.

The court then set June 27 as the date for the case to be mentioned again and documents to be handed over.

MACC believes Jho Low is hiding in Macau - Report

 MACC believes Jho Low is hiding in Macau - Report

May 30, 2023 

MACC believes Jho Low is hiding in Macau - Report

The MACC said it believed that the individuals wanted in connection with the 1MDB case were in Macau, especially Jho Low. - Image file

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) believes that fugitive businessman Low Taek Jho or Jho Low is hiding in Macau.

Quoting AlJazeera's report, the MACC in a written response said it believed that the individuals wanted in connection with the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) case were in Macau, especially Jho Low.

"This is also confirmed by several individuals who have seen Jho Low in Macau," MACC said in a report published by the news portal on Tuesday.

This is what the MACC clarified a few weeks after an individual allegedly involved in the investigation of the 1MDB and SRC International Sdn Bhd (SRC) case was reported to have been brought back to this country through MACC's cooperation with external enforcement agencies in early May.

AlJazeera also reported that the suspect, Kee Kok Thiam, arrived at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) on May 3 before being arrested by the MACC.

However, the suspect was released following an interview with MACC officers and no charges have been brought against him "at this time".

The MACC also said in the report that the Malaysian government did not receive any notification from Macau regarding the deportation of Kok Thiam, but knew that he was deported from Macau based on an "intelligence network".

"Investigation papers focused on the assets belonging to Kee Kok Thiam in Singapore and have been completed and sent to the Attorney General's office for follow-up action," quoted an official in the AlJazeera report.

Immediately after arriving in Kuala Lumpur, Kok Thiam revealed to MACC officials that Macau immigration detained him for a month in 2021 but released him "conditionally" when the Macau border was closed due to the COVID-19 restrictions, according to the report.

MACC also informed that Kok Thiam confirmed that he met Jho Low and several other fugitive 1MDB suspects including Eric Tan Kim Loong, Casey Tang Keng Chee, Geh Choh Heng and Nik Faisal in Macau.

In fact, MACC said, Jho Low had instructed Kok Thiam not to "return to Malaysia as a witness in the 1MDB case".

In early May, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that Malaysia was negotiating with several countries through diplomatic channels to speed up the process of bringing Jho Low home.

However, when asked if the negotiations involved China, PM Anwar said he could not comment on it.

No discussion on Cabinet reshuffle - DPM Fadillah

 No discussion on Cabinet reshuffle - DPM Fadillah

Bernama

Mei 30, 2023 

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof reiterated that Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) is committed to ensuring a strong and stable government. - File Pic

No discussion on Cabinet reshuffle - DPM Fadillah

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof reiterated that Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) is committed to ensuring a strong and stable government. - File Pic

BRUSSELS: Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said that there has been no discussion on a cabinet reshuffle.

"I have not heard anything about it. There is no discussion about that. That is the sole prerogative of the Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim)," he said when asked about talks of an imminent cabinet reshuffle.

"I'm a working man. I follow orders," Fadillah, who is also the Minister of Plantation and Commodities, told Malaysian media here today.

He reiterated that Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) is committed to ensuring a strong and stable government.

"We from GPS have given our commitment, and what we need now is a strong and stable government.

"Because without stability, we cannot turn around the economy's performance, and investors will not come as there will be no clear policy, no continuity in terms of government," he said.

Only political stability and good governance would attract investors, said Fadillah, who is the GPS parliamentary chief whip.

"This is paramount as far as Sarawak is concerned, and that has been our commitment as far as this Unity Government is concerned," he noted.

--BERNAMA

Bersatu gets leave to challenge freezing of accounts, Muhyiddin travel ban

 Bersatu gets leave to challenge freezing of accounts, Muhyiddin travel ban

Bernama

Mei 30, 2023 

The judge ruled that the applicants have passed the threshold to commence judicial review proceedings and there are triable issues regarding the impugned freezing order and travel ban. - Astro AWANI/Shahir Omar/Filepic

Bersatu gets leave to challenge freezing of accounts, Muhyiddin travel ban

The judge ruled that the applicants have passed the threshold to commence judicial review proceedings and there are triable issues regarding the impugned freezing order and travel ban. - Astro AWANI/Shahir Omar/Filepic

KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court here today allowed Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) application for leave to commence judicial review proceedings to challenge the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission's (MACC) decision to freeze its bank accounts for investigation and the travel ban by the Immigration Department against its president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

Judge Datuk Ahmad Kamal Md Shahid ruled that the applicants have passed the threshold to commence judicial review proceedings and there are triable issues regarding the impugned freezing order and travel ban.

"These triable issues justify further argument by the parties at the substantive stage and cannot be obliterated by the court at this stage," he said.

The judge also said Bersatu's application to initiate judicial review was not frivolous and vexatious.

"I am of the view that the application is amenable to judicial review and accordingly the leave to commence judicial review is hereby allowed," said Judge Ahmad Kamal.

Judge Ahmad Kamal however disallowed the party's interim order application for the release of funds from Bersatu's accounts as it would interfere with MACC's investigation.

"At this stage, the granting of such interim orders or interim reliefs would amount to interference in the power of the MACC in exercising its power to make a variation order.

"Therefore, it is my considered opinion that the release of money which is or could be connected with the money laundering offences cannot be permitted," he said.

He further said the release of money, if permitted, will diminish the frozen assets (the money in the bank account), as the purpose of the freezing order is to preserve the assets suspected of criminal activities.

"Permitting such release of money will frustrate the purpose of the freezing order which is yet to be determined in the criminal trials," he said.

In the interim application, Bersatu had sought to withdraw RM1 million for the operation, management, salaries, costs, other expenses and purpose of the political activities of Bersatu.

It also sought the release of RM6 million from its accounts for the purpose of campaign activities in the upcoming six state elections and another RM1 million for necessary expenses.

On the issue of the travel ban, Judge Ahmad Kamal said subsequent upliftment of the travel ban is not academic as the court has to look into the travel ban as a whole and not in isolation.

"Besides, the travel ban also has an element of public interest to demand the court to look into the matter substantively as Muhyiddin, being the preceding Prime Minister of Malaysia has a certain standing in the country," he said adding that the issue of the legality of the travel ban touched fundamental liberty enshrined in the Federal Constitution which warranted substantive hearing by this court.

Judge Ahmad Kamal set June 21 for case management before fixing a separate date to hear the merits of the judicial review.

On March 8, Capt (R) Muhammad Suhaimi Yahya, as a public officer of Bersatu, and Muhyiddin as the Bersatu president filed the application naming MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki and 19 others as the first to 20th respondents.

Senior federal counsel Ahmad Hanir Hambaly appeared for the government while counsel Rosli Dahlan appeared for Bersatu.

-- BERNAMA

Women stabbed 8 times and killed at shopping mall for breaking off engagement

 

Women stabbed 8 times and killed at shopping mall for breaking off engagement

May 30, 2023

The victim was stabbed by her ex-fiancé in an incident at a shopping mall in Kota Kinabalu. 

KOTA KINABALU: Jealousy and dissatisfaction because of a broken engagement caused a woman to be stabbed eight times by her ex-fiancé in an incident at a shopping center here on Monday.

The 22-year-old victim who worked as a shop assistant at the shopping center was reported dead in the incident that happened at about 12 noon.

Kota Kinabalu District Acting Chief of Police, Superintendent Kalsom Idris said, his department received a call regarding the incident from a man who stated that his ex-fiancé had been stabbed.

He said, following the call, a team of police officers rushed to the scene of the incident and found a woman lying down and covered in blood, believed to be the result of being stabbed.

"Also at the location was the suspect who is the victim's ex-fiancé who was detained by security guards before being handed over to the police.

"The result of the investigation found that the cause of the incident was jealousy and the suspect was not satisfied because the victim broke off their relationship two days before the incident.

"Therefore, the suspect tried to persuade the victim at her workplace, but the victim refused to continue their relationship due to personal reasons," he said in a statement at midnight on Tuesday.

He said again, angry with the victim's decision caused the suspect to stab the victim.

"The suspect stabbed her eight times .

"Police members who arrived at the location found that the victim was still breathing and covered in blood.

"The paramedics who were at the scene of the incident tried to save the victim by providing respiratory assistance (CPR) but the victim failed to be saved and was confirmed dead at 1pm before being sent to the forensic unit of the Queen Elizabeth I Hospital (HQEI) for an autopsy.

"The suspect was remanded to assist the investigation and the knife he used was also confiscated," he said.

Kalsom said that the case investigated under 302 of the Penal Code was considered to have been completed after the suspect was successfully arrested

Johor police have arrested two more individuals involved in a fight in the Tampoi area, here which went viral on social media

 

The Johor police arrested two more individuals believed to be involved in a fight in the Tampoi area, here which went viral on social media yesterday.

Johor Police Chief, Datuk Kamarul Zaman Mamat said, the latest arrest saw a total of eight individuals arrested so far involving suspects aged between 18 and 35 years.

According to him, his party is still tracking several individuals who are believed to be involved or witnesses to the fight.

"Actually, the case of the fight that started between the school students was over when the police met with the families of both parties, but the issue now is when outsiders intervene.

"So our advice is that all parties do not interfere with the police investigation and do not make any statements or actions that could further inflame the situation.

"The Johor police will take strict action against any party found to be involved in violating any laws of this country," he said when contacted here today.

The case is investigated under Section 148 of the Penal Code and investigated under Section 365 of the Penal Code and Section 385 of the Penal Code.

The fight is believed to be caused by the action of one of the parties throwing an extinguisher at the other party before the fight between them.

The incident is alleged to have worsened when one party called individuals from outside the school to be involved in the same, causing several individuals to be injured, including in the head.

Yesterday, Johor Bahru Utara District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Balveer Singh Mahindar Singh was reported to have said that six suspects, including a woman, were arrested in connection with a fight that went viral through a 28-second video recording.

The investigation conducted found that the incident happened at approximately 11.40pm yesterday (May 27) in the Tampoi area, here.

All suspects have been remanded for four days starting yesterday until next Wednesday.

In the 28-second video that went viral, several suspects can be seen beating a man lying on the road using fists, kicks and even a helmet. 

5 men, woman nabbed over brawl in Tampoi
By Bernama - May 28, 

-Pic screen captured from Twiiter video


JOHOR BARU: Police have detained five men and a woman to facilitate investigations into a video-recorded brawl that went viral on social media.

Johor Bahru Utara police chief Assistant Commissioner Balveer Singh said the suspects, aged between 24 and 35, were remanded for four days in connection with the fight that occurred at about 11.40pm in Tampoi here last night.

He said the police were tracking down some individuals who were still at large.

"Anyone with information on the incident can contact the investigating officer ASP Risman Sahid at 019-7766043," he said in a statement today.-- BERNAMA

KL TO BECOME REGIONAL HUB FOR DIGITAL INDUSTRY AND START-UPS - RAFIZI

 KL TO BECOME REGIONAL HUB FOR DIGITAL INDUSTRY AND START-UPS -

RAFIZI

Credit: FB - Rafizi Ramli

29/05/2023 12:14 PM

KUALA LUMPUR, May 29 (Bernama) -- The government plans to make Kuala Lumpur a regional hub for start-up companies and the digital industry in an effort to boost the country’s digital economic activities.

Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli said the digital economy is one of the three high-value strategic sectors and is capable of stimulating investment and offering highpaying jobs to the people that the ministry is focusing on in the restructuring of the national economy.

“Apart from boosting existing industries such as semi-conductors, manufacturing, oil and gas, and commodities to the higher value chain level with a focus on the process of higher value downstreaming, the three strategic sectors that the Economy Ministry is focusing on are energy transition towards renewable energy, digital economy and food security,” he said in a statement here.

Therefore, he said, the ministry is currently collaborating with other ministries involved in the digital economy ecosystem, namely the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation; Ministry of Communications and Digital; and the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry to boost the country's digital economy.

He said the collaboration was necessary to coordinate the public support system implemented through various agencies towards an integrated approach (single window approach) to improve the digital ecosystem.

“This will increase the number and performance of start-ups as well as accelerate the transition of the private sector to the digital economy,” he said.

He added that the cooperation with the involved ministries also aims to start the development of concepts and coordination of functions between government agencies towards the implementation of the digital government (govtech) which produces integrated data-based and digital public service products (single window's govtech).

“One key step to achieve these two targets is to increase the attractiveness of Kuala Lumpur as a centre for start-up companies and the regional digital industry to attract investment and digital talent to the country.

”It requires aggressive policy changes that cover various areas, including the consolidation of the efforts of government agencies, a more efficient and open work visa process, more attractive digital incentives and the production of workforce in the digital industry on a national scale,” he said.

According to Rafizi, while attending the Qatar Economic Forum recently, he had the opportunity to discuss with Jack Selby who was the earliest employee of PayPal along with the founding group of the company such as Elon Musk, Peter Thiel and Reid Hoffman.

“This group of PayPal founders became the main force that moved the digital industry from the Silicon Valley through their involvement in well-known digital companies including Tesla, SpaceX, Youtube, Facebook, LinkedIn and OpenAI,” he explained.

Rafizi said Selby, who is now the managing director of Thiel Capital and the originator of the Arizona Technology Innovation Summit, also expressed  interest in helping Malaysia develop Kuala Lumpur as a regional centre for start-ups and the digital industry.

“I was interested in partnering with him in the digital field because of his efforts to develop Arizona as a new centre for startups outside of Silicon Valley and after a career in Silicon Valley, he returned to his home state of Arizona and developed Arizona as a new centre for startups, which has now succeeded in attracting start-up companies.

“His expertise will help the country formulate policies that are more friendly to start-up companies and create collaboration networking in the digital field that will boost Kuala Lumpur’s name as the main destination for the digital industry in the region,” he said.

He said specific policies and initiatives will be announced in stages in the move to make Kuala Lumpur an attraction for regional start-ups.

-- BERNAMA

TNB's net profit rose to RM1 billion in the first quarter

 TNB's net profit rose to RM1 billion in the first quarter

BERNAMA

May 29, 2023 

Revenue increased 3.9 percent to RM12.63 billion from RM12.15 billion previously due to higher electricity sales. -Photo file/TNB

TNB's net profit rose to RM1 billion in the first quarter

Revenue increased 3.9 percent to RM12.63 billion from RM12.15 billion previously due to higher electricity sales. -Photo file/TNB

KUALA LUMPUR: Tenaga Nasional Bhd's (TNB) net profit jumped 12.2 percent to RM1 billion in the first quarter ending March 31, 2023 from RM893.10 million in the same quarter last year.

The increase was mostly due to lower tax provisions recognized in the quarter under review, as a result of the use of higher reinvestment allowance incentives, the utility company said in a notification to Bursa Malaysia today.

Meanwhile, revenue increased 3.9 percent to RM12.63 billion from RM12.15 billion previously due to higher electricity sales.

TNB said operating expenses increased by 7.5 per cent to RM14.44 billion from RM13.43 billion, mostly on the back of higher generation costs leading to a higher Imbalance in Route Costs (ICPT) under recognized recovery in the quarter.

However, there was a net reversal in the impairment of financial instruments amounting to RM48.7 million recognized in the current period due to an increase in collection flows.

"As a result, TNB recorded a lower operating profit of RM2.08 billion, a decrease of RM287.5 million from the previous period," he said.

On the outlook, TNB said it expects a reasonable performance for 2023 as selpeas enjoyed a better first quarter earnings from electricity demand growth of 0.8 percent and will continue to be cautious of upcoming challenges including high fuel prices and inflation.

"The group will continue to take prudent measures in terms of its operational and financial needs to ensure it remains resilient," he said.

Polis Evo 3 sets new record with RM16 million box office collection in four days

 Polis Evo 3 sets new record with RM16 million box office collection in four days

Astro Awani

Mei 29, 2023

Polis Evo 3 has positioned it as the highest grossing film in its opening week post-pandemic, surpassing the record previously held by Mat Kilau: Kebangkitan Pahlawan.

Polis Evo 3 sets new record with RM16 million box office collection in four days

Polis Evo 3 has positioned it as the highest grossing film in its opening week post-pandemic, surpassing the record previously held by Mat Kilau: Kebangkitan Pahlawan.

KUALA LUMPUR: The action-comedy sequel Polis Evo 3 grossed an impressive RM16 million in ticket sales in just four days of its release in cinemas across Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore.

The film, directed by Syafiq Yusof, has positioned it as the highest grossing film in its opening week post-pandemic, surpassing the record previously held by Mat Kilau: Kebangkitan Pahlawan.

Mat Kilau: Kebangkitan Pahlawan, directed by Syamsul Yusof, grossed RM12.2 million in ticket sales during its initial four-day run.

The success of Polis Evo 3 in such a short span of time signifies the continued support of local film enthusiasts and their desire for high-quality productions, says Raja Jastina Raja Arshad, the Executive Producer of Polis Evo 3 and Head of Astro Shaw and Malay Nusantara Business.

"Alhamdulillah, we are grateful for this incredible success, which demonstrates the audience's trust in our local films and their preference for quality productions. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone. Your unwavering support is the lifeblood that keeps the Malaysian film industry thriving and on par with international productions."

Raja Jastina added that the achievement of Polis Evo 3 serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of Skop Productions, TGV Pictures, media partners, and cinema operators who played a significant role in contributing to the film's success.

She hopes that with the ongoing school holiday season, more moviegoers will seize the opportunity to watch Polis Evo 3 in theaters.

Polis Evo 3 features a star-studded cast including Zizan Razak, Shaheizy Sam, Sharnaaz Ahmad, Nora Danish, Syafiq Kyle, Farali Khan, Douglas Lim, Fauzi Nawawi, Fezrul Khan, Eyka Farhana, and many more.

TAYANGAN PERDANA