From Where I am.........Kuala Lumpur

First of May, 2022

2022-05-01T10:28:00.002+08:00

Today, First of May, 2022, is a memorable day for Malaysians. This is the day where Covid-19 rules are almost relaxed. After two+ years of pandemic restrictions and all we are once again back to almost, almost pre-Covid-19 days.

The engine of life can start to churn again as all sectors of business are open, social distancing is relaxed, masks can be done away with in certain places.

Going back a little, March 18, 2020 was the day Malaysia initiated the MCO (Movement Control Order) and from then until today, the country and her people have gone through a host of many experiences, both Covid-related and more.

Some info on what activities are permissible...

All sports and recreational activities can be carried out without restrictions from tomorrow (May 1), the sports ministry announced.

Group activities such as aerobics, Zumba, taekwondo training and the like are also allowed without any limit or maximum capacity for participation.

Capacity limits and physical distancing rules have been lifted for spectators and supporters at sports and recreational venues.

However, spectators are still encouraged to observe the physical distancing rule if they do not wear face masks, Bernama reported.

Face masks are not compulsory in open areas and in sports activities indoors, but are required when not doing any sporting activities in enclosed areas.

The ministry said check-in via MySejahtera is not required when entering sports and recreational venues. However, the management is required to check the risk status of their patrons so that those with “high risk” status and those under home surveillance are not allowed to enter.

Tournaments, competitions as well as sports and recreational events at the domestic and international levels are also allowed. Source..

The health ministry reported 2,107 new cases yesterday, which is the lowest recorded in 13 months. This represents the lowest total since April 14 last year when 1,889 cases were reported.

Here's a visual guide to the do's and don'ts to KIV for reference.

Here's another reference from the Malay Mail..

And oh, our borders are open too and visitors are coming back to our shores again.

I would still say, do take very precaution to stay safe. It is still a dangerous place out there, outside of your own home. Take care, better to be safe than sorry.

Latest CMCO schedule amid spike in Covid-19 cases

2020-12-29T13:43:00.000+08:00

It's not beautiful but we have to do it.

According to Senior Minister, Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, stricter regulations may be enforced again if the public fail to follow standard operating procedures (SOP), resulting in a spike in Covid-19 cases. Here's a look at the latest CMCO schedule for the country..

Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year!

2020-12-24T11:28:00.006+08:00

For obvious reasons due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the associated necessary SOPs to be adhered to, Christmas this year will be celebrated differently around the world. Still, I wish You and your family.. .

30 Things To Know About The CMCO In KL, Selangor, And Putrajaya

2020-11-09T15:18:00.001+08:00

Senior Defence Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced all but three states in the Peninsula would be placed under the CMCO for four weeks from Nov 9 to Dec 6.

Perlis, Pahang and Kelantan are the three unaffected states.

This also means that the CMCO currently in effect in Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya will be extended for another four weeks.

From SAYS..

Defence Minister Ismail Sabri has announced a detailed list of standard operating procedures (SOPs) in regards to the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) enforced in Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, and Putrajaya

In a live address on 13 October, the Defence Minister said, "As I have announced yesterday, a detailed list of SOPs in regards to the CMCO in Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, and Putrajaya will be issued soon."

Well, the list has been issued. Following are the 30 things in the CMCO SOP and guidelines:-

1. The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is responsible in enforcing the movement order with the help of the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM), Malaysia Civil Defence Force (APM), and The People's Volunteer Corps (RELA).

2. Only two people per household are allowed to leave home to shop for essentials and other items. Those belonging in high-risk groups such as the elderly and children are not encouraged to be outside.

3. Interdistrict and interstate travel is not allowed except for special cases and emergencies for example, in dealing with sickness or a relative's death.

4. Interstate and interdistrict travel is also allowed for work as long as you have a valid working pass and/or a letter from your employer. Those working in their own respective districts do not have to provide a working pass or a letter.

5. Employers must allow workers to work from home.

6. Residents in other states who would like to travel through the highway and pass through CMCO areas must request for permission from PDRM at police stations. Ismail Sabri noted that the government is working on getting an online system set up for this.

7. Individuals wanting to head to airports in the Klang Valley also have to seek permission from PDRM.

8. In regards to economic activities, all sectors are allowed to operate as per usual. For example, restaurants, stalls, food trucks, and hawkers by the roadside are allowed to carry out business.

9. Restaurants and eateries are only allowed to operate between 6am and 10pm.

10. Take away, delivery, and drive-thru is encouraged, but dine-in is allowed. However, there is a limit of two persons per table.

11. Daily markets are allowed to operate between 6am and 2pm. Wholesale markets are allowed to open from 4am to 2pm. Night markets are allowed to operate between 4pm to 10pm. To ensure people abide with SOPs, the site must be supervised by RELA officials.

12. Petrol pumps are allowed to operate from 6am to 10pm. Those at highways are allowed to operate 24 hours.

13. All public transport such as buses, trains, and taxis are allowed to operate as usual. However, for e-hailing vehicles and taxis, only two passengers are allowed at a time.

14. Food delivery services can only operate between 6am and 12am.

15. Government and private hospitals and clinics are allowed to operate 24 hours a day.

16. Pharmacies are allowed to operate from 8am to 11pm.

17. Commercial vehicles working for the economic sector are allowed to operate as usual as well as travel interdistrict and interstate.

18. All sectors related to the food supply chain are allowed to operate as usual.

19. Only six people are allowed to perform congregational prayers at mosques.

20. Only six people are allowed to be on duty at non-Muslim places of worship.

21. All recreational and cultural activities are not allowed.

22. Entertainment centres such as theme parks, night clubs, and movie cinemas are not allowed to operate.

23. Non-contact outdoor sports with not more than 10 people at a time are allowed.

24. Usage of swimming pools and other contact sports not allowed.

25. Sports with an audience and players from different states are not allowed.

26. All education institutions such as public and private universities, schools, kindergartens, and nurseries are not allowed to operate.

27. Students who are sitting for international tests are allowed to sit for exams.

28. Educational talks, meetings, conventions, and exhibitions are not allowed.

29. Social gatherings such as weddings and birthday parties are not allowed.

30. All tourism activities in and out of CMCO areas are not allowed.

NST has it on a chart..

Joe Biden is the new President of the United States

2020-11-08T22:28:00.026+08:00

Over here in Malaysia many of us were just as excited about the Elections in the US keeping abreast of news on vote counts and such.

Joe Biden is the new President making him the 46th President of the United States. Kamala Harris is his Vice-President.

Joe Biden addresses the nation after election victory

From MSN/Independent..

On Twitter he said, "America, I'm honoured that you have chosen me to lead our great country."The work ahead of us will be hard, but I promise you this: I will be a President for all Americans - whether you voted for me or not."I will keep the faith that you have placed in me."

And in a statement he said it was “time to heal.”

“I am honored and humbled by the trust the American people have placed in me and in Vice President-elect Harris. In the face of unprecedented obstacles, a record number of Americans voted. Proving once again, that democracy beats deep in the heart of America,” he said. "With the campaign over, it's time to put the anger and the harsh rhetoric behind us and come together as a nation. It's time for America to unite. And to heal. We are the United States of America. And there's nothing we can't do, if we do it together."

Watch Kamala Harris' full victory speech

World leaders congratulate Joe Biden on his victory

Watch people across the world celebrate Joe Biden's win

Covid-19 - What's happening around the world (some) and at home

2020-11-05T20:23:00.001+08:00

Paris bans nightime food and drink delivery to tackle worsening COVID-19 crisis

Greece ordered a nationwide lockdown on Thursday for three weeks to help contain a resurgence of Covid-19 cases, its second this year after a sharp increase in infections this week. “I’ve chosen to take drastic measures sooner rather than later,” Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said.

In Hong Kong, social-distancing restrictions ease..

100,000 cases in a single day push the U.S. into new terrain.

Italy will lock down six regions and prevent many people from crossing between them.

The Italian government announced Wednesday night that it would lock down a significant portion of the country, including the northern regions that are its economic engine, in an effort to stop a resurgent wave of coronavirus infections.

At home here in Malaysia, we are in the third phase, that's right, and sadly more and more clusters of infections are showing up every day and worse, for the past few days we've had deaths every day.

Of all the states, Sabah on the island of Borneo is hardest hit immediately after state elections were held on September 26. Then infections increased here in the peninsula as people came back after the election campaigning and such. No quarantine was required when they touched down back at the peninsula. Horrors! Right. No one saw the impending danger. Now we are getting the brunt of that action or inaction, rather. Below is current status:

Here's some advice found online..

What food should you avoid during COVID-19?

• When cooking and preparing food, limit the amount of salt and high-sodium condiments (e.g. soy sauce and fish sauce).

• Limit your daily salt intake to less than 5 g (approximately 1 teaspoon), and use iodized salt.

• Avoid foods (e.g. snacks) that are high in salt and sugar.

• Limit your intake of soft drinks or sodas and other drinks that are high in sugar (e.g. fruit juices, fruit juice concentrates and syrups, flavoured milks and yogurt drinks).

• Choose fresh fruits instead of sweet snacks such as cookies, cakes and chocolate.

Are smokers at higher risk of contracting the coronavirus disease?

Smoking any kind of tobacco reduces lung capacity and increases the risk of many respiratory infections and can increase the severity of respiratory diseases.

COVID-19 is an infectious disease that primarily attacks the lungs. Smoking impairs lung function making it harder for the body to fight off coronaviruses and other respiratory diseases. Available research suggests that smokers are at higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 outcomes and death.

How to eat healthy in quarantine during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Consume enough fibre because it contributes to a healthy digestive system and offers a prolonged feeling of fullness, which helps prevent overeating.

To ensure an adequate fibre intake, aim to include vegetables, fruit, pulses and wholegrain foods in all meals. Whole grain foods include oats, brown pasta and rice, quinoa and whole-wheat bread and wraps, rather than refined grain foods such as white pasta and rice, and white bread.

Good hydration is crucial for optimal health. Whenever available and safe for consumption, tap water is the healthiest and cheapest drink. It is also the most sustainable, as it produces no waste, compared to bottled water.

Can I drink alcohol during the coronavirus disease pandemic?

In particular, alcohol compromises the body's immune system and increases the risk of adverse health outcomes. Therefore, people should minimize their alcohol consumption at any time, and particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Alcohol is a psychoactive substance that is associated with mental disorders; people at risk or who have an alcohol-use disorder, are particularly vulnerable, especially when in self-isolation.

How long should I exercise for in self-quarantine?

WHO recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week for adults, or a combination of both. The guidance is intended for people in self-quarantine without any symptoms or diagnosis of acute respiratory illness.

Just an idea of the Covid-19 spread worldwide. Details on individual countries can be obtained on Tracking the spread of Covid-19..

Stay safe, everyone..

FMT -- Lawyers warn of Public Outcry if High-profile Corruption Cases Dropped

2020-10-19T10:49:00.000+08:00

You could have read bits and pieces here and there. The article below from FMT would probably let you have the whole picture..

Lawyers warn of public outcry if high-profile corruption cases dropped

PETALING JAYA: There will be public outcry against the government if the attorney-general (AG) decides to withdraw serious criminal charges against six Umno MPs, a lawyer warned.

Mohamed Rafique Rashid Ali said some of the cases were in the midst of trials and the public have been following them and learning about some damning evidence from various prosecution witnesses.

“There will also be a trust deficit in the leadership should charges be withdrawn in exchange for political support,” he said.

Rafique said this in response to an interview with Malaysiakini by PKR founding member Syed Husin Ali who believes Port Dickson MP Anwar Ibrahim would abide by a Pakatan Harapan decision not to cooperate with the Umno MPs to form a new government.

There is concern that the PKR president has to cut deals with Pekan MP Najib Razak, who was facing three corruption and money laundering related trials, to muster sufficient numbers in the Dewan Rakyat to become prime minister.

The belief was intensified by reports that Najib and Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is also facing graft charges, had allegedly written to the King to throw their support for Anwar.

However, Anwar on Tuesday maintains that no deals have been made with any MP facing charges in exchange for their support.

“What I assured them is that there is no political vendetta, but you must accept the due process, the rule of law and independence of the judiciary,” he said at a press conference today.

Apart from Najib and Zahid, who is Bagan Datoh MP, others facing charges are Pontian MP Ahmad Maslan, Putrajaya MP Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor, Baling MP Abdul Azeez Rahim and Kinabatangan MP Bung Mokhtar Radin.

Lawyer Syed Iskandar Syed Jaafar al-Mahdzar said under Article 145 (3) of the Federal Constitution, the AG, who is also the public prosecutor, had the discretion to institute and withdraw charges.

He said the integrity of the AG’s office would also be called into question and discredited if high profile prosecutions were discontinued following a change in the country’s leadership.

Lawyer A Srimurugan said a public backlash was imminent if two recent decisions made by the public prosecutor were used as indicators.

“The public and civil society were up in arms when the prosecution withdrew 46 corruption and money laundering charges against former Sabah chief minister Musa Aman in June.

“The month before that, a Sessions Court granted a discharge not amounting to an acquittal to Hollywood producer Riza Aziz, who was facing five counts of money laundering amounting to US$248 million,” Srimurugan said, referring to Najib’s stepson, who had allegedly used funds linked to 1MDB.

He added that even the dropping of a corruption case against former Penang chief minister Lim Guan Eng when PH was in power in 2018 gave the impression that all prosecutorial decisions were dictated by the powers that be.

In the 1MDB audit report trial, Najib is charged with abuse of power in order to obtain immunity from legal action and causing amendments to the finalised 1MDB audit report prior to it being tabled before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC).

Najib is also facing 25 charges of abuse of power and money laundering over alleged 1MDB funds amounting to RM2.28 billion deposited in his persona bank accounts.

Najib and former Treasury secretary-general Mohd Irwan Serigar Abdullah are also facing six charges of CBT involving RM6.6 billion of government funds but the trial will begin next year.

Zahid is currently facing 12 charges of criminal breach of trust, eight for corruption and 27 for money laundering, totalling RM117 million in the High Court.

Meanwhile, he is facing another 40 graft charges in relation to the foreign visa system (VLN) though the trial for that case has yet to begin.

Tengku Adnan, who is Umno treasurer, will know on Nov 17 whether he will be acquitted or convicted over a RM2 million corruption case.

On Nov 23, Tengku Adnan’s second corruption case involving RM1 million will begin.

The trial of former Tabung Haji chairman Azeez and his brother, Latif, started in August and three witnesses have been called.

Azeez was charged with three counts of bribery involving RM5.2 million linked to road projects in Perak and Kedah, and nine counts of money laundering involving nearly RM140 million.

Ahmad Maslan was charged with money laundering by not stating his real income on the RM2 million he received from Najib in his 2013 income tax return form.

The Umno secretary-general is also charged with giving false statements to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).

Bung Moktar, a former non-executive chairman of Felcra was charged with three counts of taking a bribe amounting to RM3 million from public mutual investment agents through his wife Zizie Ezette.

Flooding at Kuala Lumpur today

2020-09-10T21:00:00.000+08:00

Kuala Lumpur was in a watery mess today after incessant rain the whole day. Downtown at the Masjid Jamek/Ampang area was like a sea. Traffic was at a standstill, naturally. Check out pictures below (received via WhatsApp - source unknown):

Mandatory mask-up in Malaysia starts today

2020-08-01T14:38:00.000+08:00

Today marks the first day that Malaysia is making it mandatory for people to wear a mask in crowded places and on public transportation.

From The Star..

The mandatory use of face masks from Aug 1 will be for crowded public places where social distancing cannot be practised, says Health director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah.

He said this rule, already implemented for public transport, would now be enforced for those frequenting crowded public areas.

However, Dr Noor Hisham did not specify the kind of crowded public place where the use of face masks among patrons were mandatory.

"If you are walking alone, there is no need to wear a face mask.

"If you are in public and the place is crowded and social distancing cannot be created, the use of face masks is mandatory," he said at a media engagement session on Wednesday (July 29).

The plan is to eventually get everyone to adorn face masks once they step out of the house.

The World Health Organisation now recommends that you wear a three-layer fabric face mask every time you go in public where social distancing is impossible. The use of masks is to help slow the spread of Covid-19 as many who are positive with the virus are asymptomatic.

You can make your own fabric masks. You Tube has many tutorials on how to make face masks, even hand-stitching methods.

WHO has indicated that the mask must be of three layers of fabric each made of a different material to serve a different protective role.

The recommendation is for an inner layer of an absorbent material like cotton (for example from a t-shirt), a middle layer of a non-woven material such as polypropylene (for a filter, such as like the polypropylene used in reusable grocery bags). Synthetic, non-woven materials are smoother and less porous than pure cotton as a filter. And an outer layer of a non-absorbent material such as polyester or a polyester blend.

Here are the basic Do's and Don'ts of mask wearing courtesy of The Star..

Najib Razak, former PM, found guilty - more information and reactions

2020-07-29T15:05:00.000+08:00

More updates on Former premier Najib Abdul Razak found guilty of all seven charges - SRC trial..

- Najib is first ex-PM to be convicted - The Star

It took two and a half hours for Justice Nazlan to read his decision.

Justice Nazlan sentenced Najib to 12 years’ jail and RM210mil fine for one court of power abuse.

For three counts of criminal breach of trust, Najib was sentenced to 10 years’ jail for each of the charges.

For three counts of money laundering, another 10 years’ jail each.

The court ordered for the jail time to run concurrently.

Shafee applied for a stay of execution on both jail time and fine, which was allowed by the court.

Najib’s bail, originally set at RM1mil, was increased by another RM1mil in two sureties to be paid today.

Najib was also ordered to report to the nearest police station twice a month.

Pakatan leaders say ‘justice served’ after Najib convicted of all counts in SRC trial - Malay Mail

Pakatan Harapan leaders described former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s conviction in his SRC International trial today as justice for the country and vindication for themselves.

Among them were former energy, science, technology, environment and climate change minister Yeo Bee Yin who said the decision demonstrated the power Malaysians possessed via the ballot box.

“To all who went all out, worked and voted for change in 2018, it is not in vain, remember, it is not in vain,” she said on Facebook.

PKR vice president Rafizi Ramli also broke his recent silence on politics to comment that today’s unprecedented conviction of a former prime minister in Malaysia was momentous for the country.

Rafizi had been among those who led the criticism of the Najib administratio over the 1MDB scandal.

“I very rarely commented on anything political nowadays. But I did spend many years on the front-line dealing with 1MDB and SRC scandals as an MP.

“I never expected much from those years, but I did feel that all the heartbreaks were well worth it today.

“Well done Malaysia” he said.

'Najib conviction a victory for justice' - New Straits Times

Najib was today sentenced to 12 years' jail and fined RM210 million after he was found guilty of all seven charges related to the 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) subsidiary's funds.

"The prosecution's case has been proven beyond reasonable doubt, and all witnesses who testified have been found credible.

"We are pleased that justice has been served in this case and that the judge has accepted the truth of the prosecution's case. The outcome is actually a victory for justice," he said at a press conference after judge Mohd Nazlan Mohd Ghazali passed sentence on the former prime minister.

He added that he had estimated that the case would be finally disposed of in a year.

Judge: Najib's lack of action to recover SRC funds 'very puzzling' - New Straits Times

KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Najib Razak's lack of action to recover funds linked to SRC International which were frozen by the Swiss authorities in 2015 was deemed as something very puzzling by the High Court Judge who convicted him of power abuse charges yesterday.

Justice Mohd Nazlan Mohd Ghazali said this in his judgment in the SRC International case which saw the former prime minister convicted of all seven charges of power abuse, criminal breach of trust and money laundering before jailing 12 years and fining him RM210 million.

In his judgment, Nazlan said Najib's action was much more consistent with the conduct of one who did not want the problem to be resolved given his own complicity in the unlawful transfer of the funds in the first place.

The judge found evidence of this in the shareholder minutes of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOF Inc).

He said it was clear by the end of 2015 that SRC was facing financial difficulties.

Former premier Najib Abdul Razak found guilty of all seven charges - SRC trial

2020-07-28T13:21:00.012+08:00

Breaking news. Najib found guilty of all charges - SRC Trial.

From The Edge..

Datuk Seri Najib Razak (in brown coat). (Photo: Izwan Mohd Nazam/The Edge)

KUALA LUMPUR (July 28): Former premier Datuk Seri Najib Razak has today been found guilty by the High Court here of all seven charges of abuse of power, criminal breach of trustand money-laundering in relation to RM42 million belonging to SRC International Sdn Bhd.

In delivering his verdict, High Court judge Justice Mohd Nazlan Mohd Ghazali said the case had been proven beyond reasonable doubt as the defence failed to rebut the prosecution's case.

The former premier is the most senior member of the executive branch of the previous Barisan Nasional government to be charged in court.

Continue reading.. SRC Trial: Najib found guilty of all charges

Update:

- After found guilty, Najib's lawyers ask to delay bid to postpone sentencing but court unconvinced

- Najib in court custody pending mitigation hearing for SRC case

- SRC trial judge who convicted Najib says all roads led to proverbial Rome

Spitting at the rakyat’s face

2020-03-07T22:18:00.000+08:00

Here's an article written by Manjit Bhatia in relation to the recent event of the new government.

He starts with, "Malaysia’s people have been kicked in the groin."

Read on:

Installing Muhyiddin Yassin’s so-called Perikatan Nasional (PN) through the backdoor as the “new government” is majorly troubling in anybody’s book. Not in Muhyiddin’s, it seems, or his backers’.

To back Muhyiddin’s government is to back an illegitimacy.

PN hasn’t won the popular mandate through open and fair elections. It doesn’t enjoy voter legitimacy. Therefore, it has neither the business nor the right to rule.

To carry on would be a gross travesty of justice perpetrated on the people of Malaysia.

Effectively, PN and its backers have spat in the faces of, to use an ancient Roman political term, the publics.

Yet again the people of Malaysia have been taken for granted.

Continue reading Spitting at the rakyat’s face

You may be interested to read:

It hurts when friends backstab you, says Dr M
What would Muhyiddin do?
Ambiga hails Idrus Harun’s appointment, says he has the experience
Perikatan Nasional just an illusion, says PPBM man
Khalid tells of his texts to Muhyiddin and DAP’s readiness to sacrifice
Vote of no-confidence is democratic, not showing distrust of Agong, Patriot tells PAS chief
No confidence motion against PM not an act of disloyalty to king, say lawyers

Disclaimer:
-- Any political news posted on this blog is from the media. It is not the opinion of the blog-owner.

Latheefa resigns as MACC chief and other updates

2020-03-05T21:32:00.000+08:00

If you are still keeping up with the Malaysian saga of the new government taking over, the following are some updates..

Malay Mail reported that "The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner Latheefa Koya has resigned from her position, a source privy to the agency's developments said tonight."

Selangor MB: Bersatu booted out of state administration

All 13 BN Melaka assemblymen pull out of coalition with two Bersatu reps

Muhyiddin in charge of all federal govt departments until appointment of Cabinet ministers

Source: Malay Mail

Syed Saddiq urges Umno, PAS leaders to declare wealth after Ku Nan's RM900m asset revelation

After change of government, whistleblower Justo returns to Switzerland

And lastly for now see if you agree with the last bit, the last two sentences of this article..
The Guardian view on a royal coup: a king overturns a historic election

What's happening in Malaysia - with updates

2020-03-02T12:54:00.000+08:00

It's hard not to be keeping up on what's happening to the country with the swearing in of the new PM and his team.

If you too are still interested, here's the latest..

Ahmad Zahid's trial vacated as he needs to discuss new govt formation with Muhyiddin

From the New Straits Times..
KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court has allowed Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's corruption trial involving millions of ringgit in Yayasan Akalbudi funds and passport chip supply contracts with several companies to be vacated.

This was after the Umno president's lawyer said that his client needs to meet with newly-appointed Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin to discuss the formation of a new government.

Ahmad Zahid, 67, is facing 47 charges, with 12 of them involving criminal breach of trust, eight for corruption and 27 for money laundering involving tens of millions of ringgit of funds belonging to Yayasan Akalbudi.

The trial before judge Collin Lawrence Sequerah continues tomorrow.

I want to clear my name in court, says Zahid
Prosecution applies to cite Zahid for contempt over ‘meeting’ with Muhyiddin

Who will be the next AG?
Let ongoing court cases continue, says Kadir Jasin

Now we know who the traitors are
The whole world knows it was a coup, says Anwar
Don’t derail PH reform efforts, LFL tells cops on social media probe

No, wait, these are related too..
UDA chairman tests positive for Covid-19
PKR's Wong Chen goes into isolation over Covid-19
UDA director confirmed for Covid-19 was in close contact with ex-minister, officials
EXCLUSIVE - Health Rules Demand PM8 And All Co-Conspirators Must Immediately Self-Isolate For 14 Days?

UPDATES:
Anwar says new coalition won’t be able to manage economy
Ambiga: Vital for new PM to convene Parliament meet and end doubt about support
Muhyiddin clocks in at Perdana Putra
'To my driver, you will be greatly missed,' says ex-Transport minister

Disclaimer:
-- Any political news posted on this blog is from the media. It is not the opinion of the blog-owner.

It’s official, Muhyiddin sworn in as PM8

2020-03-01T11:40:00.002+08:00

FMT reports that It’s official, Muhyiddin sworn in as PM8.

KUALA LUMPUR: Muhyiddin Yassin has taken his oath in front of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, becoming the 8th Malaysian prime minister following what has been described as the longest week in Malaysian politics.

After meeting 222 MPs and dozens of political leaders, Sultan Abdullah named Muhyiddin, 73, as the person who is “likely to command the confidence of the majority of the members of the (lower) House”, as spelt out under Article 40 of the constitution.

KUALA LUMPUR: Dr Mahathir Mohamad today said the Yang di-Pertuan Agong has decided not to see him any more, and PPBM president Muhyiddin Yassin will be sworn-in as the prime minister as scheduled.

He said Pakatan Harapan will now ask for an urgent sitting of the Dewan Rakyat.

Speaking to reporters at the Yayasan Al-Bukahry building in Kuala Lumpur, where MPs had gathered to show their support for him, Mahathir said he felt “mostly betrayed” by Muhyiddin, and expected to be expelled from PPBM.

Asked if he had any regrets resigning as the prime minister, he said: “I had no choice”.

You may be interested to read:
Dr M says feel betrayed by Muhyiddin and his extensive scheming for power
Dr M expects to be booted out of PPBM
PH seeks emergency Dewan Rakyat sitting
'New SDs made after Agong's decree do not hold water'

Disclaimer:
-- Any political news posted on this blog is from the media. It is not the opinion of the blog-owner.

Happy Leap Day!

2020-02-29T18:00:00.000+08:00

This fits to a tee..

UPDATES:
Malay Mail reports that Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad tonight announced that he has the support of 114 MPs — which exceeds the simple majority of 112 MPs — to be prime minister, and said he will notify the Yang di-Pertuan Agong of this.

Mukhriz questions how Muhyiddin can be PM when six MPs from Bersatu supports Dr M
PH disputes Muhyiddin’s support, leaders meet tonight
Malaysians don’t support Muhyiddin, says PKR info chief

Disclaimer:
-- Any political news posted on this blog is from the media. It is not the opinion of the blog-owner.

Istana: Muhyiddin to be sworn in as PM

2020-02-29T17:17:00.001+08:00

The Star: Istana: Muhyiddin to be sworn in as PM

PETALING JAYA: Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin will be sworn in as the eighth prime minister at 10.30am on March 1, Istana Negara has announced.

After receiving representations from both sides, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong has determined that the Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia president is “most likely to command a majority, ” the Istana said in a statement on Saturday (Feb 29).

You may be interested to read:
PH: We have 114 MPs now in support of Dr M
Mukhriz questions how Muhyiddin can be PM when six MPs from Bersatu supports Dr M

Disclaimer:
-- Any political news posted on this blog is from the media. It is not the opinion of the blog-owner.

New twist to power vacuum saga as Dr M set to return as PM with PH support

2020-02-29T12:26:00.000+08:00

In a twist of events..

FMT reports:

PETALING JAYA: Dr Mahathir Mohamad says he is prepared to lead a Pakatan Harapan coalition government again, following a meeting with its top leaders this morning.

“I am now confident that I have the numbers needed to garner majority support in the Dewan Rakyat.

“I am therefore prepared to stand as prospective candidate for prime minister. This decision will be conveyed to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong,” he said in a statement.

This comes just as PPBM president Muhyiddin Yassin looked set to become the next prime minister after support poured in for him yesterday.

Pakatan Harapan also confirmed this in a brief statement, saying it condemns efforts to form a “backdoor government” involving “traitors and kleptocrats”.

“As such, for the sake of defending the struggle, Pakatan Harapan expresses its full support for Dr Mahathir Mohamad as prime minister,” it said.

A source told FMT that ex-PKR leaders who quit the party together with Mohamed Azmin Ali earlier this week are not part of this revived bloc.

Continue reading New twist to power vacuum saga as Dr M set to return as PM with PH support

You may be interested to read:
King determined to end political tug of war
Actually, What Are The Agong’s Powers?

Disclaimer:
-- Any political news posted on this blog is from the media. It is not the opinion of the blog-owner.

Attorney-General Tommy Thomas resigns

2020-02-28T20:29:00.001+08:00

The Edge reports:

Attorney-General Tommy Thomas resigns

KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 28): Attorney-General Tan Sri Tommy Thomas has resigned as Malaysia gets set for a new Prime Minister.

Thomas submitted his resignation letter to Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad who appointed him to the post for a two-year term which was due to end only in June.

A source said Thomas wanted to resign while Mahathir was still the Prime Minister, albeit interim, as he was the person who appointed him.

Thomas had relentlessly pursued prosecutions related to the 1Malaysia Development Bhd scandal.

It is not clear what will happen with these cases, which are still ongoing, with his departure and that of Mahathir, which is expected soon.

Disclaimer:
-- Any political news posted on this blog is from the media. It is not the opinion of the blog-owner.

Khalid Samad (Shah Alam MP) pleads with Dr M - with updates

2020-02-28T13:23:00.000+08:00

Khalid Samad pleads with Dr M to ‘let PH finish what you started’ - Malay Mail

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 28 — Parti Amanah Negara’s Khalid Abdul Samad today pleaded with Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad to not betray Pakatan Harapan (PH), and allow the coalition to finish what he started.

In a series of Tweets this morning, the Shah Alam MP said: “Tun, let us finish what you started. Let us carry on with the mandate of 2018 for PH to govern and cleanse the administration of all forms of corruption to make Malaysia great again. Think of your grandchildren.”

He then urged the interim prime minister not to betray the coalition and the nation.

“Please Tun, do not betray us and the nation as a whole. You think what you are doing is the best for the nation but it is not.

“Your final legacy should not be that of a Prime Minister who betrayed his people after having won their hearts.

“Please Tun, respect the rule of law,” he tweeted.

Khalid added that PH lawmakers proposed PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as the next prime minister not to spite Dr Mahathir, but because they were left with no other choice.

“Please Tun, concede to the will of the rakyat. It’s time to let go.

“We chose DSAI (Anwar) as our candidate for PM, not to spite you or bring you shame but as you gave us no choice. You left PH and wanted to create a new mandate for yourself based purely on yourself. “How could we agree? We stand with PH and the mandate of 2018,” he said.

Khalid also said he had learnt to respect Dr Mahathir over the past few months working with him.

Yesterday, Khalid openly called for Dr Mahathir not to continue as prime minister.

He insisted Anwar be appointed as the eighth prime minister.

“Tun must resign. Be the interim prime minister. Give chance to DSAI (Anwar) to become the 8th PM.

“This is not a hereditary position or one that can be passed on. There must be majority support from MPs. “I hope PPBM fulfills the promise. Tun is 7th PM, Anwar is 8th PM,” Khalid wrote on Twitter yesterday.

Last night, Dr Mahathir said the Malaysian Parliament will have the chance to resolve the country’s political impasse during a special sitting on Monday.

In remarks after announcing the 2020 Economic Stimulus Package, Dr Mahathir said the Yang di-Pertuan Agong believed that Parliament was the correct venue to determine the crisis caused by the collapse of the Pakatan Harapan federal government.

He said after two days of interviewing federal lawmakers, the Agong could not determine any among them who commanded a distinct majority to become the next prime minister.

You may be interested to read..
PKR MP suggests special Parliament sitting not by the book
PH accuses Mahathir of pre-empting Agong on future PM
2 ex-top cops at Istana as rulers meet to solve political stalemate
Umno sec-gen urges MPs to say no to special Parliamentary sitting on Monday
Dewan Rakyat can’t elect PM, will lead to constitutional crisis, warn lawyers

UPDATES:
Agong summons Speaker to palace again over special sitting of Parliament
Speaker rejects Mahathir’s bid to call for special Dewan sitting
Johor Umno chief is new MB
Analyst tells why a PH government, minus PPBM, may not last
Istana Negara: No one has majority to be new PM, party leaders to nominate PM candidate

Disclaimer:
-- Any political news posted on this blog is from the media. It is not the opinion of the blog-owner.

Malay Rulers arrive at Istana Negara for special meeting

2020-02-28T12:55:00.000+08:00

From the Malay Mail..

Malay Rulers arrive at Istana Negara for special meeting

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 28 — The Malay Rulers have started arriving at Istana Negara here this morning to attend a special meeting after the political turmoil that has plagued the country since Sunday.

The Malay Rulers are set to meet the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, who has interviewed almost all MPs over the past two days to determine who commands the confidence of the majority in Parliament.

The Johor palace motorcade was seen entering the main entrance gate of the Istana Negara at 9.32am, signaling the arrival of Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar.

There’s a heavy police presence in the vicinity of the palace currently.

The Conference of Rulers meeting today is in light of the current political quagmire, triggered by former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir’s resignation on Monday.

The Rulers and the Yang di-Pertuan Agong will look into the possibility of a new government or the dissolution of the Dewan Rakyat.

Others expected to arrive include Sultan Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah, Sultan Terengganu Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin, Sultan Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah and Sultan Kedah Al Aminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin Almarhum Sultan Badlishah as well as Yang di-Pertuan Besar Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Almarhum Tuanku Munawir, Pahang Acting regent Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah and Tengku Mahkota Kelantan Dr Tengku Muhammad Faiz Petra Sultan Ismail Petra.

More to come..

Here is a timeline of Malaysia's political crisis.

Source: Malay Mail

Disclaimer:
-- Any political news posted on this blog is from the media. It is not the opinion of the blog-owner.

Who is the new Prime Minister of Malaysia? - With updates

2020-02-27T11:59:00.002+08:00

Yes, who will be the new Prime Minister of Malaysia? Your guess is as good as mine but let's take a look at what's going on here in Kuala Lumpur from live account from Istana Negara (the King's Palace) courtesy of FMT..

Courtesy of FMT

KUALA LUMPUR: FMT brings live accounts as events unfold at Istana Negara amid a political vacuum in Putrajaya.

11.15am: There have been conflicting claims on who has the majority, with Anwar Ibrahim’s supporters saying the PKR leader is set to be sworn-in as PM. Pakatan Harapan top leaders are meeting at 1pm today.

11.10am: Dr Mahathir may not be sworn in as he is not wearing the Baju Melayu, which is a required palace protocol during a swearing-in ceremony.

11.00am: Dr Mahathir Mohamad, wearing a suit and a songkok, enters the palace grounds, ahead of his audience with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. It is not certain if he would be sworn-in, with conflicting claims on who has the majority support to head a new government.

At the same time, Mahathir off to Istana as unity govt looks set to trump partisan blocs

According to Malay Mail..
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 27 — State broadcast channel RTM reported this morning that Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has been summoned to meet the Yang di-Pertuan Agong in Istana Negara at 11am.

RTM also reported that Chief Justice Datuk Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat had also been similarly summoned.

Malay Mail is seeking verification with palace officials and Dr Mahathir’s office regarding the matter.

UPDATES:
Dr M back as PPBM chairman, says party sec-gen

PETALING JAYA: Kedah Menteri Besar Mukhriz Mahathir has retained his post in the state after receiving support from assemblymen belonging to various parties.

The menteri besar said the Kedah government now consists of Pakatan Harapan and PPBM.

“Everything remains the same, except that we are now known as the Pakatan Harapan-Bersatu government in Kedah,” Mukhriz said.
Mukhriz remains MB after support from Kedah reps

Disclaimer:
-- Any political news posted on this blog is from the media. It is not the opinion of the blog-owner.

Malaysia still in limbo - with updates

2020-02-26T13:38:00.000+08:00

Yes, Malaysia is still in limbo as Agong (the King) continues to search for a new PM.

MSN reported that..

Provided by Malay Mail Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah speaks to members of the media at Istana Negara February 25, 2020. ― Picture by Miera Zulyana

The Yang di-Pertuan Agong will meet more federal lawmakers today to identify a suitable candidate to be prime minister, after unprecedented developments yesterday left Malaysia no closer to a new government.

Since yesterday afternoon, MPs have gone to the Istana Negara to inform Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah of whom they supported to be the head of the government.

At the time, virtually all factions including Pakatan Harapan, Bersatu, Umno, PAS, and Gabungan Parti Sarawak were united in their support for Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad to continue as prime minister.

Today, the Agong will continue meeting the country’s remaining lawmakers after already polling those from PAS, Umno and GPS. On the schedule to see him are those from PH and Datuk Seri Azmin Ali’s rogue faction that quit PKR to become independent.

Dr Mahathir resigned unexpectedly on Monday after a Sunday full of political intrigue stemming from a suspected plot to form a coalition government without the main PKR, DAP, and Amanah.

Stay tuned for updates..

UPDATES:
DAP’s Yeo says Pakatan went with Anwar as ‘Mahathir government’ would give Dr M carte blanche
PH picks Anwar after Mahathir snubs meeting
In first public remarks as interim PM, Dr M apologises to country for political mess
Dr M: I can't accept Umno's inclusion in new government
Dr M says he wants a merit-based government, not party-based
3 ways Malaysia’s Agong is winning hearts amid the political saga

Disclaimer:
-- Any political news posted on this blog is from the media. It is not the opinion of the blog-owner.

Malaysia will have a surprise tomorrow?

2020-02-25T23:08:00.000+08:00

From MSN:

PETALING JAYA: Pakatan Harapan coalition partners have reached a consensus on their position following the political crisis sparked by Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s resignation as prime minister, but will only announce it tomorrow.

Most of the top PH leaders, including PKR’s Anwar Ibrahim and Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, DAP’s Lim Kit Siang and Lim Guan Eng and Amanah’s Mujahid Yusof Rawa avoided the press and left hurriedly after a meeting at the PKR headquarters here tonight.

Asked if PH was confident of a majority, Khalid said “God willing” though he ruled out a two-thirds majority. He said they had a “sufficient” majority.
Read: PH leaders reach consensus, will reveal it tomorrow

Disclaimer:
-- Any political news posted on this blog is from the media. It is not the opinion of the blog-owner.

Prime Minister of Malaysia has resigned

2020-02-24T18:30:00.001+08:00

MSN reports:

KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 24): Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has submitted his resignation letter to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong at 1pm today, said the Prime Minister's Office in a statement.

This confirms reports that Dr Mahathir had quit as Prime Minister, although the brief two-paragraph statement did not disclose the reason for his resignation.

This latest development comes just a day after talks of a new political coalition being formed to replace the current Pakatan Harapan administration.

News about Dr Mahathir’s alleged resignation circulated in online news portals and social media at around noon. Prior to that, there were meetings held between Dr Mahathir and PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the former’s home earlier today.

Yesterday was fraught with uncertainty over the state of the government following a series of high-level meeting last night between both sides of the political divide said to be in support of Dr Mahathir remaining as prime minister until the next general election.

They include PPBM president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, PKR deputy president Datuk Seri Azmin Ali, as well as some leaders from both parties who met with Barisan Nasional leaders and those from PAS at Sheraton Hotel.

On Friday after the PH presidential council meeting, Dr Mahathir said he will decide later about his tenure as PM, as opposed to giving a firm date for his resignation as requested by certain quarters in the coalition.

With Tun Dr Mahathir's resignation.. The Pakatan Harapan (PH) ruling government has collapsed, following the resignation of Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and after the pact lost its Parliamentary majority.

Following the resignation of Dr Mahathir who is the Chairman of Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu), the former PH component member with 26 federal lawmakers pulled out from the pact, this afternoon.
Continue reading..

Caretaker government to be formed, AGC to release details soon

Updates:
Agong accepts Dr M’s resignation, reappoints him as interim PM
All 26 ministerial appointments revoked
Anwar: Dr M says wasn’t part of power grab

25 February:
Interim premier Dr M back at work in Perdana Putra

Prime Minister's Office in Putrajaya (MSN/The Star Online)

Kit Siang: Will Opposition behind backdoor govt now declare support for Pakatan’s GE14 manifesto?
‘Dr M quit because he refuses to work with Umno’
Three states at risk of falling
The numbers game that just needs a simple majority to win
Make the one with the majority the PM, says lawyer activists group
And on a refreshing note, the King treats media to KFC.

Disclaimer:
-- Any political news posted on this blog is from the media. It is not the opinion of the blog-owner.