Malaysians Must Know the TRUTH

‘AI brains’ next big thing for companies, say industry leaders

2026-06-11T19:38:36.178+08:00

Companies that benefit the most from AI are those that can best capture their employees’ processes, expertise and institutional knowledge in systems that AI can access and use.

Malaysian Digital Association president and COO of Rev Media Group Nicholas Sagau (centre), FMT managing director Azeem Abu Bakar (left) and University of Cambridge adviser Gerard Grech at the Connexion Conference and Event Centre (Nexus) in Bangsar South, Kuala Lumpur, today.

KUALA LUMPUR:

The next big development in artificial intelligence may not be smarter chatbots but the emergence of “AI brains” that help companies store knowledge, make decisions and coordinate work across entire organisations.

Speaking at the d Conference 2026, organised by the Malaysian Digital Association (MDA), Nicholas Sagau, president of MDA and chief operating officer of Rev Media Group, said businesses should start building “knowledge bases” that preserve organisational memory and expertise.

Nicholas said companies that can benefit the most from AI are those that can best capture their employees’ processes, expertise and institutional knowledge in systems that AI can utilise.

“Figure out what is unique about your company, what knowledge is unique to your function. Once you get that right, you can make AI much more effective for your organisation,” he said.

FMT managing director Azeem Abu Bakar described these knowledge systems as the early building blocks of an organisational “AI brain”.

Azeem said companies could upload policies, operating procedures, customer insights, research and historical decisions into such a system, allowing AI to understand the organisation better and assist its employees more effectively.

He highlighted ChatGPT’s Projects function – a dedicated workspace that groups related chats, custom instructions, and reference documents into a single organised folder – as an example of an “AI brain” in its most basic form.

“Companies should have their own ‘AI brains’ that can be used to operate the company more productively,” Azeem said.

He said FMT is already exploring ways to organise its institutional knowledge, research and editorial expertise so that it can eventually be utilised by AI systems.

However, an “AI brain” is only as powerful as the information inside it.

Gerard Grech, adviser to the University of Cambridge and former managing director of Founders at the university, said proprietary datasets could become one of the biggest competitive advantages in the AI era.

Grech said every company possesses information that its competitors do not have, ranging from customer insights and operational experience to research and industry expertise.

When this knowledge is organised and connected to AI, it can have a powerful competitive advantage. He said the companies with the best “AI brains” will not necessarily be those with the best technology but those with the best knowledge and data.

He also said building “AI brains” at scale will require more than software and data, calling for more investments in computing capacity and AI infrastructure.

Noting that data centres require significant amounts of electricity in line with increased demand for computing power, Grech said governments around the world are increasingly looking at renewable and clean energy sources to support the growth of AI infrastructure.

The panellists said the challenge for both companies and governments is no longer whether they should adopt AI, but how quickly they can build the knowledge, data, infrastructure and energy capacity needed to power the “AI brains” of the future. - FMT

GRS logo for Sabah-based parties only, not PH, says LDP man

2026-06-11T19:32:17.419+08:00

LDP vice-president David Ong says GRS must stay true to its founding purpose as a coalition of local parties fighting for Sabah’s rights.

LDP vice-president David Ong said PH candidates who want to contest on a GRS ticket should first leave their party and join a GRS component. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA:

A leader of a Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) component says the coalition’s logo should only be exclusive to Sabah-based parties that are members of GRS.

Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) vice-president David Ong said Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidates who want to contest on the Sabah coalition’s ticket should first leave PH and join a GRS component, Borneo Post reported.

“It would be inconsistent with the spirit and identity of GRS for those who remain members of peninsular-based political parties to seek election under the GRS banner.

“The GRS logo belongs to GRS components. No individual or external political party should assume they are entitled to use the GRS logo simply because it may be politically advantageous,” he said, according to the Sarawak-based daily.

Ong added that GRS’s emblem is more than a logo. It represents the aspirations of Sabahans for a stronger voice in charting the state’s future and safeguarding its rights under the constitution and Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

“GRS must remain true to its founding purpose as a coalition of local parties fighting for Sabah’s rights, autonomy and development. The people of Sabah supported GRS because it represents a local political movement that prioritises Sabah’s interests,” he said.

Sabah PH previously denied discussing using GRS’s logo in the next general election (GE16), describing a news report making the claim as “misleading”.

Its chief, Mustapha Sakmud, did not dismiss the possibility of using GRS’s logo but said the matter had yet to be officially discussed within Sabah PH, Utusan Borneo reported. - FMT

Noraqilah-Zi Yu book Aussie Open quarters slot with quick win

2026-06-11T19:30:48.030+08:00

The rising teenage stars score an easy 21-9, 21-18 win over a home pair in just 26 minutes.

Noraqilah Maisarah Ramdan-Low Zi Yu could achieve a career best if they enter the semi-finals of the World Tour Super 500 championship. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA:

Malaysia’s women’s doubles pair Noraqilah Maisarah Ramdan-Low Zi Yu continued to shine at the Australian Open, booking a quarter-final slot with a quick win over a home pair.

The rising Malaysian duo, both teenagers, have been making their mark in recent international tournaments.

They took just 26 minutes to sweep aside Australia’s Jazmine Lam-Lim Yee Yuan in straight games, 21-9, 21-18 at the Quaycentre Arena in Sydney today.

In the last-eight match tomorrow, the 84th-ranked Malaysians will take on either Ukranian pair Polina Buhrova-Yevheniia Kantemyr or Fabriana Dwipuji Kusuma-Meilysa Trias Puspita Sari from Indonesia.

Noraqilah-Zi Yu could achieve their career best if they manage to enter the semi-finals of the World Tour Super 500 championship.

However, Malaysia suffered two setbacks when women’s singles hopeful Wong Ling Ching and men’s doubles pair Chia Wei Jie-Teo Ee Yi went down to Taiwanese shuttlers in the second round.

Ling Ching, who is ranked 34th, went down to 31st-ranked Huang Yu Hsun 18-21, 19-21 in 40 minutes.

Meanwhile, the new pair of Wei Jie-Ee Yi were defeated by Taiwan’s Chen Cheng Kuan-Liu Kuang Heng 21-13, 18-21, 17-21.

With this, only men’s singles player Justin Hoh and Noraqilah-Zi Yu will feature in the quarter-finals tomorrow. - FMT

PAS has urged us to stay in PN, says MIPP president

2026-06-11T19:24:45.159+08:00

P Punithan says MIPP is weighing offers from other coalitions as well.

MIPP president P Punithan said the party will decide its political future after a central committee meeting on Sunday.

PETALING JAYA:

PAS has asked the Malaysian Indian People’s Party (MIPP) to remain in Perikatan Nasional (PN), said party president P Punithan after a nearly two-hour meeting today.

Punithan said the meeting, attended by PN chairman Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar among others, discussed the coalition’s direction in the wake of PAS’s decision to end political cooperation with Bersatu.

“The meeting was positive. We discussed PN’s direction and ways to strengthen the coalition,” he told FMT.

Punithan said MIPP also informed PAS that it had received offers from outside the coalition but was urged to remain in PN.

“We have told them we will make a decision on Sunday after meeting with our central committee and they agreed.”

PAS, Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional have all made overtures to MIPP amid the turmoil following the PAS-Bersatu split.

PN information chief Annuar Musa had previously said that component parties would meet this week to discuss the coalition’s direction.

He said PAS remained committed to multiracial political cooperation and welcomed the continued roles of MIPP and Gerakan within PN.

Gerakan has reaffirmed its commitment to PN, saying it will continue to play a constructive role in strengthening the coalition. - FMT

Ringgit closes slightly higher against US dollar, major currencies

2026-06-11T19:23:13.537+08:00

The ringgit held steady at the RM4.06 level despite the US consumer price index hitting a three-year high in May at 4.2%, says analyst.

KUALA LUMPUR:

The ringgit ended slightly higher against the greenback and other major currencies on Thursday, shrugging off the impact of stronger-than-expected US inflation data for May.

At 6pm, the local currency inched up to 4.0650/4.0690 versus the greenback from yesterday’s close of 4.0670/4.0715.

Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Afzanizam Rashid said the ringgit held steady at the RM4.06 level despite the US consumer price index (CPI) hitting a three-year high in May at 4.2%.

“This has happened ahead of the US Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting next week on June 16 and 17. The US Federal Reserve (Fed) is likely to maintain its restrictive monetary policy stance next week, which can be US dollar-positive in the near-term,” he told Bernama.

At the same time, Afzanizam said uncertainties over the war in Iran will keep crude oil prices elevated, keeping the inflation rate high.

The local currency traded higher against a basket of major currencies.

It climbed versus the Japanese yen to 2.5321/2.5347 from 2.5347/2.5377 at yesterday’s close, gained against the British pound to 5.4325/5.4378 from 5.4486/5.4546 and rose vis-a-vis the euro to 4.6878/4.6924 from 4.7006/4.7058.

The ringgit was also stronger against regional peers.

It appreciated versus the Singapore dollar to 3.1556/3.1589 from 3.1591/3.1628 on Wednesday and was up against the Thai baht at 12.3331/12.3501 compared to 12.3688/12.3871 previously.

It gained vis-a-vis the Indonesian rupiah to 225.9/226.2 from 226.6/227 and remained unchanged versus the Philippine peso at 6.62/6.63. - FMT

Can the football save the Cup of Chaos?

2026-06-11T19:21:32.982+08:00

For the 2026 World Cup to be remembered for its football, it will have to be spectacular; the players are.

How fitting that a referee should be given the first red card!

After a tortured build-up, nothing sums up the chaos, angst and hypocrisy of the biggest World Cup ever than the “sending off” of Omar Artan, Africa’s top official, by US immigration before the tournament even started.

Welcome to the Trump-Infantino tournament.

Once it was hamstrings and metatarsals that we worried about before a World Cup: now it’s downed helicopters, missiles and ticket prices that have gone into orbit.

After holding our breath over whether the 48-nation, 104-match extravaganza would even take place, we can look forward to a truly mouthwatering line-up.

For starters, there is surely the final act of the Messi-Ronaldo rivalry, albeit in bite-sized cameos.

Can Argentina become the first country to retain the trophy since Brazil in 1962?

Or will France make up for their near-miss in Qatar? Will European champions Spain justify their favourites’ tag without a Real Madrid player?

All the big boys, bar Italy, are here, with Portugal the most fancied to add a new name to the trophy.

One of the most fascinating issues of the whole shebang is whether they are better with or without CR7.

Brazil, for once, has a manager more famous than many of their players in Carlo Ancelotti.

And will the recalled Neymar finally deliver at 34?

Is England the new Germany under Thomas Tuchel? Is Germany, after flopping in the last two editions, the new England?

Could a country from outside Europe or South America win it?

Japan looks the best from Asia, Senegal and Morocco from Africa.

And could a minnow produce an earth-shaking upset?

Shock results may be necessary to sustain interest through the 72-game group phase. A clean knock-out is always preferred, but even a solitary win for a rookie would be welcome and make the winners national heroes back home.

Long tournaments usually succeed if the host does well, and this one may need all three to reach the Round of 32.

And each country may need the full backing of its fans to do it.

As good as it is to see new blood in the tournament, it’s often the Golden Oldies who get the biggest crowds.

None are bigger than Messi and Ronaldo, both of whom will attract the most scrutiny.

Whilst you feel that the holders will still depend on Messi, even operating in carefully managed bursts, there’s an argument for saying Ronaldo is holding back Portugal.

Roberto Martinez’s side achieved two nine-goal wins when CR7 was absent and when you look at their midfield of Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva and Vitinha, you feel they are dark horses for the trophy.

Their pressing and quick counters may also work better without a 41-year-old loitering up front.

But Martinez will not drop his captain, who, truth be told, is probably the manager as well in all but name.

If Vitinha can pull the strings as well as he does at PSG, and Ronaldo responds, Portugal will be capable of beating anybody.

Argentina has the bulk of its 2022 winners to choose from, but Julian Alvarez could well be their main man this time instead of Messi.

But for sheer attacking verve, it’s hard to look beyond France.

Kylian Mbappe. Ousmane Dembele. Desire Doue. Rayan Cherki. Michael Olise. Bradley Barcola.

Just mention the names and you wonder how on earth Didier Deschamps chooses.

Perhaps it needs a water carrier, as Eric Cantona famously dubbed him, to pick his finest vintage.

Behind them is midfield controller Aurelien Tchouameni, with Ibrahima Konate and William Saliba at centre-back, and Mike Maignan in goal.

There’s an awful lot of talent on display in this gargantuan event, some golden oldies saying farewell and new boys making their mark.

No youngster has a higher profile than Yamal, already dubbed the new Messi, but different: definitely a new-age Messi.

Altogether more confident than the shy kid the Argentine was at his age, he’s already led Spain to the Euros and Barcelona to La Liga.

If he justifies the hype, Spain may well win. No top out-and-out striker? No problem, they can walk the ball in.

Luka Modric is still there at 40 and his Croatian side will once again be a threat to England, this time in the same group.

England has its best side since the Golden Generation, but Gareth Southgate was unable to turn them into trophy winners.

He came close with a semi-final and two finals (in the Euros), but defence is a weakness with the 34-year-old, 201cm Dan Burn likely to be turned into a statue by the aforementioned speedsters.

Still, Harry Kane is in the form of his life, Jude Bellingham could come of age and Tuchel will take the handbrake off.

On paper, the ingredients are there for a cracking six weeks of football. But there are quibbles about the pitches, the heat, the travelling and the atmosphere.

There is also the fact that a war is going on between two participants who could even meet on the field if they win their respective groups.

It used to be said that football was such a passionate game that it sparked a war, as it did over a qualifier in 1969. Honduras and El Salvador came to blows in a four-day affair before the 1970 World Cup.

Now, a much bigger war with the world economy held to ransom continues unabated.

Trump and Infantino will no doubt say the show must go on. But with hosts like these and organisers like FIFA, to ensure the tournament will be remembered for its football, the players will have to reach spectacular new heights.

It should be worth watching them try. - FMT

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.

THURSDAY JOKES - 320

2026-06-11T10:43:38.557+08:00

Hiking at Gunung Senyum, Felda Jengka 25, Kuala Krau, Pahang, Malaysia.

I was sitting in a bar one day and two really large women came in, talking in an interesting accent.
So, I said, “Cool accent, are you two ladies from Ireland?”
One of them snarled at me, “It’s Wales, Dumbo!”
So, I corrected myself, “My apologies, so are you two whales from Ireland?”
End of the story!!!

If I ever need a brain transplant, I’d choose yours because I’d want a brain that had never been used!

It goes in hard and dry and comes out soft and wet.

What is it?

A bubblegum!

What did the toaster say to the slice of bread?

I want you inside me!

Roses are red.
Violets are blue.
I have five fingers;
The middle one’s for you!

You should do some soul-searching.

Maybe you’ll find one!

Go ahead, tell them everything you know.

It’ll only take 10 seconds!

A man went to the All-Stars game with two front row seat tickets. He sat down and then another man asked him if the other chair was taken.

The man said ” no, it was supposed to be for my wife.”

The other man asked ” well, where is she?

And he said “she died two days ago” from a stroke.

The other man said “well that’s very unfortunate, I’m so sorry for you. But shouldn’t you give this seat to another family members?”

And the man said, “no they’re all at the funeral!”

As usual, we remind you to take your Memo Plus Gold daily. It will help to keep you alert and mentally sharp. For more information or to order for Memo Plus Gold, please visit : https://oze.my

Tebrau PKR grassroots want party to contest Tiram

2026-06-11T10:43:22.697+08:00

Division chief M Prakash says members believe the constituency has been developed through years of sustained efforts by PKR and its machinery.

Tebrau PKR recently held a meeting with its members and grassroots supporters. (Facebook pic)

PETALING JAYA:

Tebrau PKR says grassroots members want the party to contest the Tiram state seat in Johor, a position that has been conveyed to the division leadership.

In a statement, division chief M Prakash said the matter was discussed at a recent meeting with members and grassroots supporters.

“The message from grassroots members was clear: they want PKR to continue contesting the Tiram state seat, strengthen the party machinery, and ensure that members’ voices are always taken into account in decisions involving the party’s future,” he said.

Prakash also said division members believed the constituency was developed through years of sustained efforts by PKR members and its machinery, and that the party enjoyed strong support there.

Tiram is one of the state constituencies within the PKR-held Tebrau parliamentary constituency. The other state constituency is Puteri Wangsa, which was won by Muda.

In the 2022 state election, Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate Azizul Bachok won the Tiram seat with a majority of 5,281 votes over six other candidates, including Pakatan Harapan’s S Gopalakrishnan of PKR.

In the 2018 state polls, Gopalakrishnan won Tiram with a 8,098 vote majority against BN candidate Maulizan Bujang and Azman Atmin of Gagasan Sejahtera, which also included PAS.

Maulizan held the Tiram seat for three consecutive terms before 2018.

Tiram is also the seat that Johor DAP allegedly offered to Marina Ibrahim, the incumbent Skudai assemblyman, according to a letter that circulated on social media.

The offer was made during a discussion between Johor DAP chief Teo Nie Ching and Marina on May 17, according to the letter which was addressed to Teo from Marina.

The letter surfaced following Marina’s announcement that she would not defend her seat in the Johor polls and would step away from politics after serving as an elected representative for more than four years.

On Saturday, PH secretary-general Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said seat negotiations among component parties had been finalised for the Johor polls. - FMT

Taylor’s Education Group turns sustainability into a five course conversation

2026-06-11T10:41:14.180+08:00

TAYLOR’S EDUCATION Group (TEG) brought sustainability to life through a conversation-driven dining experience at its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Festival 6.0, where dialogue, food, and immersive storytelling came together under the theme “Food for Thought.”

Guided by the provocation, “Are We Solving the Right Problem”, the experience reframed sustainability discussions beyond traditional panel formats, creating a shared space where ideas were explored through multi-sensory engagement and lived experience.

The platform brought together leaders from governance, finance, urban development, sustainability and social impact sectors to reflect on how ESG is being translated into practice across industries, and whether current efforts are creating meaningful environmental and social impact, or simply improving how these issues are reported.

Conversations explored the role of developers in shaping sustainable communities and whether sustainability is genuinely integrated into design and business models, alongside the importance of board-level accountability in driving real ESG outcomes.

Speakers included Ong Jee Lian, Group Chief Sustainability & Communications Officer of Gamuda Berhad, Datin Seri Sunita Rajakumar, Founder and Chairperson of Climate Governance Malaysia, Anita Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of Yayasan MySDG, and Bea Camacho, Director of IDEO Consulting Southeast Asia. The session was moderated by Professor Dr Ong Kian Ming, adjunct professor at Taylor’s University.

Held at Taylor’s Lakeside Campus and co-hosted with Gamuda Berhad, the festival brought sustainability to life through immersive and community-driven experiences.

Participants engaged in an upcycled dining experience in collaboration with Saving Graze, a Malaysian social enterprise championing rescued ingredients and repurposed meals, highlighting sustainability through conscious consumption and food preservation.

The festival also featured a closed-door youth dialogue addressing climate anxiety, economic uncertainty, and evolving career pathways, alongside an immersive storytelling and music performance by refugee participants in collaboration with Taylor’s University School of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Complementing this was a waste-to-fashion showcase by refugee participants and The Design School at Taylor’s University under the Denim Project, demonstrating how sustainability, creativity, and social inclusion can come together as platforms for empowerment.

“The annual ESG Festival reflects our commitment to embedding ESG into the way we lead, govern, and operate. Sustainability and responsible practices cannot exist as parallel initiatives, but must instead be reflected through everyday decisions, institutional culture, and the experiences we create across our campuses and communities.

We recognise meaningful progress requires long-term commitment, collective responsibility, and a willingness to continuously evaluate if the systems we build today will create lasting impact for tomorrow,” said Dato’ Loy Teik Ngan, Chairman of Taylor’s Education Group.

For Taylor’s Education Group, the platform forms part of a broader sustainability direction across its 11 operating divisions in Malaysia, Sing

The Group continues to strengthen ESG integration across leadership, governance, campus operations and institutional culture, while also building internal ESG governance and data capabilities ahead of Malaysia’s National Sustainability Reporting Framework requirements.

The conversations and themes explored throughout the festival also reflect the increasing importance of integrating sustainability into the way communities live, learn and develop.

In line with this broader direction, Taylor’s Education Group and Gamuda Land have collaborated through the establishment of Lexel International School to address the growing demand for affordable, future-focused international education.

Lexel International School opened its first campus at Gamuda Gardens last year, exceeding 115% of its inaugural enrolment target within its first year.

A second campus is scheduled to open at Gamuda Cove this September, extending access to more families.

“Sustainability conversations cannot happen in isolation from the environments and communities people live in. Our partnership with Taylor’s Education Group reflects a shared belief that education, sustainable townships and responsible development must evolve together.

Through platforms such as ESG Festival, we are able to connect institutional dialogue with the practical realities of implementation, urban development and community impact,” said Ong Jee Lian, Group Chief Sustainability & Communications Officer of Gamuda Berhad.

For more information, visit https://esgfest.taylorsedu.my/— Focus Malaysia

Mum shares matric daughter’s dilemma to open tudung in front of non-Muslim (girl) roommate

2026-06-11T10:39:06.133+08:00

Editor’s Note: This article is intended solely for educational purpose and healthy information sharing as opposed to running down any faith.

FOR starters, perhaps not many non-Muslims – both men and women alike – are aware that it is inappropriate for Muslims women to even open their head scarves a.k.a. tudung in the presence of other non-Muslim women.

What non-Muslims are aware nevertheless is that it is ‘obscene’ or haram for a Muslim woman to expose her aurat (entire body with the exception of the face and hands) to other man who is not her spouse.

This apparently was the basis to the grouses expressed by one non-Muslim parent who shared the dilemma of a Muslim mother with a daughter who has just registered for her matriculation programme having to share her hostel room with another non-Muslim course mate.

“Non-Muslims always seem like a problem in Malaysia. Halal restaurant with JAKIM (accreditation) but owned by non-Muslim also kena boycott,” lamented the non-Muslim mother in the popular Malaysia Education Info (And Homeschooling too) Facebook page.

“Staying in one room also kena complained. And some commented (that) their kids rather sleep in surau. When I was studying in a Convent school, I even helped my Malay friend wear her tudung.”

The Muslim mother – while stressing that she has no intention whatsoever to be racist – has expressed concern that “it’s obligatory for Muslims to care for their aurat 24 hours (daily)”.

“It’s a pity Muslims girls can’t simply open their tudung to dry their hair, etc,” she lamented in an attached screenshot.

“The (college) staff whom I enquired earlier told me such is the directive from the higher-ups … eerm should I be tagging the Education Minister? I just want to get some opinion from those who have ideas to share …”

Finding middle path

A Muslim commenter brushed aside such viralled sharing as a rage-bait attempt “to incite more hatred and mistrust among the rakyat”.

“Islam is a religion of peace and doesn’t make things difficult. So many years no issue of Muslim and non-Muslim girls sharing hostel rooms,” she observed. “Such are so frequent now … I don’t know who’s doing it and what they stand to gain.”

This was when another commenter shared a Q&A by the Federal Territory Mufti Department on the issue of Muslim women’s aurat with non-Muslim women in situations where it is difficult to cover their aurat at all times, notably among roommates.

The gist of the FT Mufti’s explanation is that while there are few school of thoughts on the matter, the general consensus is that an exposure “is warranted under emergency situations merely to prevent Muslim women from falling into sin in line with the Sharia principles which emphasise benefit and avoiding difficulty”.

“This is also subject to the fact that the non-Muslim woman is trustworthy, the situation is safe and secure from slander and doesn’t degrade the dignity of Muslim women.”

Elsewhere, one non-Muslim woman expressed shock with the latest development while recounting that she used to share a room with two Malay girls in university hostel 30 years back.

“They didn’t hesitate to buka tudung in the room. Our room was small and my study desk was right in front of kiblat,” she vividly recalled.

“When it was time to pray, I will move away from my desk as a respect. Sometimes during exam period. they even asked me to just continue using the desk even during their praying time. That’s how we accept each other.”

Others too share their personal experiences from yesteryears – that of “old good times”.

Well, the said post did honestly illicit plenty of reaction some of which border 3R (race, religion, royalty) breaches to be published here.

One Muslim man summed up best to preserve cordiality of Muslims and non-Muslims:

The situation is like this … The issue of aurat is a sensitive one. Some Muslims really don’t really care about aurat, have free hair, just wear a tudung adik (simple tudung).

But to those who properly follow Islam, it becomes a real issue when you have to take care of your dignity.
There are indeed limitations for Muslims if they really follow their religion. And some people are simply too strict with regard to what’s permissible and what’s not.
So before anyone want to condemn (the Muslim mother as) racist, do understand her concern first.
She clearly stated her desire to take care of aurat in the confines of non-Muslims (this is the type of Muslim who is strict). It’s not that her daughter can’t befriend non-Muslims ”

-Focus Malaysia

Bersatu unshaken in Mersing despite Endau defection, says Azmin

2026-06-11T10:35:03.360+08:00

Party secretary-general Datuk Seri Azmin Ali said Bersatu had weathered numerous political challenges in Mersing over the years and maintained strong grassroots support in the parliamentary constituency. - Pic credit Facebook/Azmin Ali

MERSING: Bersatu remains confident of retaining the Endau state seat in the upcoming Johor election despite incumbent assemblyman Alwiyah Talib quitting the party to rejoin Umno.

"We have gone through various tests in Mersing, but Mersing remains a Bersatu stronghold," he said during his Johor election tour yesterday.

-Advertisement-

"The Mersing parliamentary seat and Endau state seat were won by Bersatu. Voting patterns in Tenggaroh during the parliamentary election also showed Bersatu secured the support of voters in that state constituency, he said.

Azmin said party leaders and grassroots machinery in Mersing had been urged to remain steadfast and intensify efforts to defend all seats under the parliamentary constituency.

His remarks came days after Alwiyah announced her resignation from Bersatu and her return to Umno, ending an eight-year stint with the party she joined after leaving Umno in 2018.

Alwiyah first won the Endau seat under Barisan Nasional in the 14th General Election before crossing over to Bersatu following a change in the federal administration.

She successfully defended the seat on a Perikatan Nasional ticket in the 2022 Johor election.

Meanwhile, Azmin said concerns raised by second-generation Felda settlers during his visits to Sedili and Johor Lama in Kota Tinggi highlighted unresolved issues involving housing, employment, and basic utilities.

He claimed more than 4,000 settler families who obtained homes under a housing loan scheme had yet to occupy their completed houses because water and electricity supplies had not been connected, despite continuing their monthly repayments.

Azmin said Bersatu would raise the concerns of the Felda communities with both the state and federal governments to ensure long-standing issues affecting settlers and their families received immediate attention. - NST

Immigration raid at Johor hypermarket sparks calls for statewide 'clean-up'

2026-06-11T10:32:49.076+08:00

In a viral video, dozens of detainees were seen chained and ferried away in Immigration trucks. PIC SCREENGRAB FROM SOCMED

SENAI: Netizens are calling for a "clean-up" of undocumented foreigners living and working in the Kulai-Senai area after a major Immigration raid at a hypermarket.

In a viral video, dozens of detainees were seen chained and ferried away in Immigration trucks.

The Facebook video has amassed more than 374,000 views and drawn hundreds of comments, with many users questioning the effectiveness of immigration authorities in regulating the entry of foreign nationals into the country.

-Advertisement-

One user, Eesan Arif MY, commented that lax enforcement has led to a high volume of foreign workers, particularly in industrial areas.

Echoing this sentiment, Aqila Yasmin told authorities to conduct such operations more regularly.

Meanwhile, Muhsin Jamal questioned why authorities had not acted sooner to address the growing foreign presence in the area.

"No need to wait for complaints before carrying out enforcement operations," wrote KhaiRina Syima, suggesting that immigration authorities adopt a more proactive approach.

Another user, Dirk Alan, was more critical: "Look at the number of illegal workers in Malaysia. This shows the authorities have failed to effectively tackle the problem."

Many commenters also called on the Immigration Department to extend these operations statewide, noting that several residential and commercial areas have become overly congested.

Beyond enforcement, some netizens highlighted the financial burden of these crackdowns.

Thien Gee Lia pointed out the underlying costs the government bears when foreigners are detained in large numbers, writing: "More detainees are coming in again. That's RM90 per person just for meals."

However, the operation also drew some criticism.

A few users argued that the use of loud sirens during the raid was excessive and unnecessary for detaining undocumented migrants. -FMT

Heavy rain triggers flash floods in Bintulu, vehicles stranded as water spills into homes

2026-06-11T10:30:27.919+08:00

Several roads and residential areas here have been inundated following heavy rain since early Thursday morning. — The Borneo Post pic/Bintulu Kereta Bahaya Info

BINTULU, June 11 — Several roads and residential areas here have been inundated following heavy rain since early Thursday morning.

The downpour caused flash floods in a number of low-lying areas, with floodwaters rising rapidly and affecting traffic flow on several roads across the town.

Several vehicles were seen stranded after attempting to pass through flooded stretches, while other motorists were forced to turn back and seek alternative routes due to rising water levels.

Among the affected areas were residential neighbourhoods where overflowing drains led to water spilling onto roads and into house compounds.

As of 9am, no injuries or evacuations have been reported. — The Borneo Post

CAAM reminds AirBorneo of consumer obligations as Sabah, Sarawak flights disrupted

2026-06-11T10:28:56.900+08:00

AirBorneo officially took off with inaugural flights to Mukah and Tanjung Manis from Kuching International Airport on January 2, 2026. — The Borneo Post pic

KUCHING, June 11 — The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) is closely monitoring recent flight disruptions involving AirBorneo services across Sabah and Sarawak and has reminded the airline of its obligations to consumers under the Malaysian Aviation Consumer Protection Code 2016 (MACPC).

In a statement, CAAM said the flight delays, cancellations and schedule changes were attributed by AirBorneo to operational and maintenance-related issues.

While stressing that safety must remain the highest priority in flight operations, the aviation regulator said affected passengers must continue to be treated fairly and in accordance with consumer protection requirements.

“AirBorneo is reminded to take all reasonable measures to minimise inconvenience to affected consumers and to ensure compliance with its obligations under the MACPC while maintaining the highest standards of operational safety,” said the authority.

CAAM advised passengers affected by the disruptions to check the latest status of their flights before heading to the airport and to contact the airline directly for updated information, available assistance and alternative travel arrangements.

The authority noted that under the MACPC, airlines are required to provide timely, accurate and updated information on flight delays, cancellations or schedule changes, including the reasons for the disruption and the options available to affected passengers.

It added that, depending on the nature and duration of the disruption, consumers may be entitled to care and assistance such as meals, communication facilities, accommodation, transportation, re-routing to their final destination or refunds, subject to the provisions of the code.

CAAM encouraged affected passengers to first seek resolution directly with AirBorneo through the airline’s official customer service channels.

“Airlines are required to address consumer concerns promptly and provide clear guidance on the available remedies and next steps,” it said.

Passengers who are unable to resolve their issues with the airline, or who are dissatisfied with the response received, may lodge complaints with CAAM via its FlySmart platform, online complaint form, email or consumer hotline.

The regulator said it will continue to monitor the situation and assess AirBorneo’s compliance with applicable consumer protection requirements under the MACPC.

“Airlines are expected to ensure that communication, assistance, re-accommodation and refund processes are carried out in a timely, transparent and accountable manner,” it said.

CAAM also reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding consumer rights while maintaining safety as the highest priority in Malaysia’s civil aviation sector.

In a statement earlier, chief executive officer Megat Ardian Wira Mohd Aminuddin said the flight disruptions were caused by multiple aircraft becoming unavailable at the same time due to scheduled maintenance and technical rectification works.

He assured that the airline has been working around the clock to restore normal operations and minimise further disruptions. — The Borneo Post

Four houses damaged in early morning fire in Pasir Puteh

2026-06-11T10:23:50.985+08:00

IPOH: Four double-storey terrace houses were damaged in an early morning fire at Lorong Kledang Utara 13, Taman Kledang Suria, Pasir Puteh, on Thursday (June 11).

The Perak Fire and Rescue Department assistant director (Operations), Sabarodzi Nor Ahmad, said they received an emergency call about the fire at 5.20am. They dispatched firefighters from the Pasir Puteh and Meru Raya fire stations, assisted by the Menglembu Volunteer Fire Brigade.

He said upon arriving at the scene at 5.33am, firefighters found the blaze raging at house No 72. No casualties or injuries were reported.

“House No 72 sustained the most severe damage, with about 80% of the structure destroyed.

“The other three houses suffered between 2% and 30% damage, mainly due to heat exposure and soot,” he said in a statement on Thursday.

He added that the fire spread rapidly because the house contained a large quantity of recyclable materials that were highly flammable.

“Firefighters carried out extinguishing works using hose lines supplied by water from fire engines and a nearby hydrant.

“The blaze was brought under control at 6.36am before being completely extinguished at 8.40am,” he added.

He said 25 personnel took part in the operation, involving assets including fire engines, an Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) vehicle and a utility van. - Star

No natural long-term ally for PAS, analyst says

2026-06-11T10:20:46.003+08:00

There might not be any suitable long-term coalition partner for PAS, said a political analyst commenting on the party's split with Bersatu.

International Islamic University Malaysia political science academic Syaza Shukri said cooperation with Umno remains possible, but both parties would first have to resolve the question of leadership within any alliance.

"Plus, they are going after the same Malay votes, so it's not extending either party's reach," she noted.

PAS announced an end to its six-year-long political cooperation with Bersatu on Monday, with the Islamist party now exploring potential electoral pacts in the interest of ummah unity ahead of the upcoming state polls and general election.

Yesterday, Johor PAS chief Mahfodz Mohamed indicated that his party might enter an informal pact with Umno and several other parties to avoid multi-cornered contests in the upcoming state election.

Asked whether the arrangement meant PAS would be going solo in the state polls, Mahfodz said the party had no such intention.

Last month, BN chief Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced that the coalition would contest all 56 state seats in Johor.

Syaza said PAS could potentially work with almost any party in a limited electoral pact, but sustaining a long-term political partnership would be far more difficult.

Syaza Shukri

"At the end of the day, if it's just an electoral pact to avoid multi-cornered fights, I think that PAS can work with almost anyone.

"But (when it comes to a) long-term cooperation, I have doubts.

"I think PAS needs to gain 112 (seats in the Dewan Rakyat) on their own, otherwise it would be a cycle of cooperation and then breaking up again," she said.

Syaza added that any partnership with non-Malay-based parties would likely require PAS to be seen as the dominant force.

Not everything is PAS’ fault

Universiti Sains Malaysia political analyst P Sivamurugan agreed with Syaza’s views, saying PAS appears most comfortable when it leads an alliance.

However, he warned against “oversimplifying” political realities by placing the blame solely on PAS.

“Alliances often break down because of competing ambitions, leadership dynamics, and electoral strategies.

“The PAS-Bersatu split appears to reflect structural differences rather than the shortcomings of only one partner,” Sivamurugan added.

P Sivamurugan

He told Malaysiakini that based on PAS’ history of cooperation, the Islamist party tends to prioritise its own interests, which often creates tension with its partners.

But given the dynamics of coalition politics in Malaysia, he said such situations are nothing remarkable.

“These accusations (that PAS is a bad coalition partner) are very much part of the political game.

“Opponents will naturally highlight PAS’ past breakups, while the party would argue that it acts according to its principles and long-term objectives,” he commented, adding that narratives usually depend on the side telling the story.

Bersatu messed up

Syaza further said that Bersatu played a part in the breakup as the party had relied on a position of strength going into the alliance with PAS in 2020.

She noted that Bersatu had relied heavily on party president Muhyiddin Yassin's leadership and its financial resources to sustain PN.

However, Muhyiddin later stepped down from his position as the PN chair while Bersatu’s bank accounts had been frozen since 2023 due to investigations linked to the Jana Wibawa programme.

Syaza said that despite these developments, Bersatu continued to act as if it were on equal footing with PAS, thus “dooming” their relationship. - FMT

Bersatu has to reap what it sowed

2026-06-11T10:17:46.758+08:00

YOURSAY | ‘Muhyiddin must think of the next step carefully.’

Johor polls: PAS eyes political pact, seat talks with Umno, other parties

Bersatu to be hit hard over PAS' decision, expect new political alignments – analysts

GP2025: Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin led the destruction of this Malay-based party. He should not lead anymore. Whatever coalition he joins, Bersatu will be a very small junior partner.

The best bet for PAS to win back moderate Malay support is to help former Bersatu deputy president Hamzah Zainudin keep his 19 MPs’ base and join forces with him either with Perikatan Nasional or a new coalition.

Invite the smaller Malay-based parties to join this new alliance and launch a concerted attack on the Umno base.

To win Malay support, the strategy must be anti-corruption and, most importantly, a public declaration on upholding the constitutional requirement for elected government sovereignty by practising the separation of powers.

Umno is banking on royalty sentiments based on the support they are getting.

Whether that support comes in the form of appointments or funds, we don’t know, but that is unconstitutional.

If the strategy is to stick to constitutional compliance, the Malay base is ready, I believe, to give that coalition a chance to govern. It will also attract non-Malays as it promises a new government that is closed to the influence of unelected elites.

NoobMaster69: It's 2016 all over again when Muhyiddin and the gang were abandoned by his most trusted people. The people he thinks will be loyal to him.

Now, thinking back, was what he did in 2020 worth it for him? Pakatan Harapan, especially DAP, stuck with him even the night before the Sheraton Move.

Harapan supported him when former Umno president Najib Abdul Razak kicked him out of Umno and the cabinet.

They supported him again as home minister and showed concern when he was getting treatment for cancer.

This is how friends care for you. Karma is now being served to you on a hot platter.

Chefoo: Bersatu’s treacherous action in the Sheraton Move still lingers in the hearts of many democratic loving citizens. The karma of their back-door manoeuvring and overthrowing a democratically elected government has come to hunt them now.

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The classic saying: "Live by the sword, die by the sword" seems to suit them now… pay what you did onto Harapan.

They did not even spare their own leader, former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

OrangePanther1466: These analysts are basically regurgitating all the possible permutations of alignments. They should make some sensible predictions instead.

For instance, why would PAS want to work with Umno? They are fighting for the same voters, and they see themselves evenly matched when it comes to Malay-dominated areas.

PAS leading a new political alignment with Reset is possible, but with Umno and Bersama as well? It isn’t going to happen.

Bersatu's best bet is working with PKR in areas where Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim failed to garner Malay votes.

With DAP likely to go on its own, PKR and Amanah can use all the help they can get from Bersatu.

Coward: I cannot see how Umno will agree to any cooperation with PAS, as it is perceived to be dominant for this state election. PAS itself ruled Harapan out.

It itself is not acceptable to Muda or Bersama. In any case, PAS isn't interested in them coz they are insignificant.

Only two left. Bersatu and Hamzah's new party. Whatever form Hamzah's party takes, it will likely need PAS support.

Bobbyo: Every morning, thousands of Johoreans get up in the wee hours of the morning to travel south, to seek employment and better prospects for themselves and their families.

If PAS gains power in Johor, it will result in the state losing many investments. Johoreans are wise in rejecting any PAS leader.

As history has proven, through their control of Kelantan, Terengganu, Perlis and even Kedah, the states are economically backward, and thousands of their residents seek employment elsewhere.

PurpleCat9452: These analyses are based on anecdotes and ignore the only perspective that truly matters: the voters.

Whether Bersatu ends up like Pejuang will be decided by voters, not by who it chooses to marry politically.

Just a Malaysian: Bottom line, it is a mess. All parties that shout, defend, and strengthen race and religion are killing the very goals they are chasing.

The Chinese are weak politically, but their focus on self-improvement and risk-taking has moved the community forward quietly but surely.

Our countrymen should learn something from each other. Fight less, work more.

Blue Diamond: Muhyiddin, you must think of your next step carefully. Your own party members and PAS have abandoned you.

We also sympathise with your ailing health and tons of legal cases after you. Looks like you are swimming in deep waters with deadly sharks around.

But never give up, as nothing is impossible and there is always a shining light at the end of the tunnel.

Cheer up! You are from Johor, and this is where you gathered a lot of support. You should talk to some of your very old friends and make up.

Set your pride aside, merge with a stronger party and let them let you contest in some of your favourable seats and ask them to make way for you. - FMT

What's behind the latest hate campaign against Rohingyas?

2026-06-11T10:13:44.467+08:00

A petition calling for Rohingyas to be removed from Malaysia has been taken down for review by Change.org following criticism from civil society groups towards the latest hate campaign against the persecuted community.

Before it was taken down, the petition, believed to have been started by Malaysians, had received more than 424,000 signatures as of June 8, according to a report by The South China Morning Post.

The situation has been further inflamed after it was discovered that an unauthorised flat had allegedly been built by the refugees on private land in Sungai Tekali, Hulu Langat.

Hate campaigns against Rohingyas, other refugees, and migrants are not new in Malaysia, say NGO leaders. In 2021, media reports quoted residents feeling uncomfortable about Rohingya and other foreigners living in their flats or working in local markets.

The latest flare-up that led to the petition appeared to be part of a disinformation campaign against Rohingya refugees that started circulating on social media.

One source was a poster claiming that a Rohingya leader, a “Rohingya Malaysia President” had requested that Selayang be used as a settlement for the community, which had been exiled from their native Rakhine state in Myanmar by force.

The poster, made up to look like an official news bulletin, was shared by Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s daughter, Nurulhidayah.

Nurulhidayah Ahmad Zahid

According to the screenshot of the poster shared by Nurulhidayah, the image had originated from the TikTok account user @the_pandir_post.

Disinformation campaign

The TikTok account described itself as sharing “satire news all over the world” and mainly posts AI-generated content. The poster itself was tagged with a label indicating that it contains AI-generated elements, as per TikTok’s policy.

A search by Malaysiakini found no media sources quoting the purported Rohingya leader making such a demand, and neither does the “Rohingya Malaysia” group appear to exist.

Despite this, as of 5pm on June 10, the image in question had garnered 808 “hearts”, 119 saves, 539 shares, and 431 comments.

A significant portion of the commentators called for the community to be “chased out” of Malaysia, with the publisher liking many of these comments.

The hate campaign had also used a screenshot of a post, made up to look like it was taken from a Facebook group called the “Rohingya Solidarity Network Malaysia”.

The post urged Malaysia to provide land for refugees and slammed the bumiputera policy as “racist”.

Although it appears to be authentic, administrators of the Facebook group have said the screenshot and post were “fabricated” and did not represent the group’s position.

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“We have never made such claims. We are here as refugees seeking safety and survival, not asking for land, citizenship or political control,” the group wrote.

Similar to campaign that sparked genocide

Rohingya Women Collaborative Network executive director Yasmin Ullah said the accusations resembled anti-Rohingya propaganda that had spread in Myanmar.

“The hate speech targeting Rohingya in Malaysia today echoes the same narrative spread by Buddhist nationalists in Myanmar before the 2017 genocidal campaign, portraying Rohingya as invaders, threats, and people who don't belong,” Yasmin said in a report by Sinar Daily.

Pusat Komas founder Jerald Joseph told Malaysiakini that the latest campaign against the Rohingya seemed like a coordinated effort.

Jerald Joseph

However, the former Suhakam commissioner admitted that this suspicion is hard to verify and would require expert skills, such as the MCMC, which is empowered to halt such behaviour.

Joseph said that the recent attacks could be due to a combination of global, local, economic, and political factors.

“Whenever there are hardships and troubles, like price hikes, anger is directed at the voiceless. They are easy targets of xenophobic people,” he commented.

When asked why Malaysians view Rohingya refugees so negatively, Joseph said the sentiment grew rapidly during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Things can only improve with policies, political leadership, and social movements so that Malaysia does not eventually devolve into a country similar to those in the West, which have anti-immigrant policies, he added.

Stop the hate

Rohingya refugee leader Zafar Ahmad Abdul Ghani urged a halt to the hatred directed at his community, which he described as a disinformation campaign.

The Myanmar Ethnic Rohingya Human Rights Organisation president also requested that the Malaysian government, along with Asean, uphold the rights of refugees and protect those who had fled their homelands due to conflict.

Zafar Ahmad Abdul Ghani

“Day by day, the Rohingya continue facing hate speech, disinformation, xenophobia, and Islamophobia.

“These are the main reasons why we become enemies and fight each other,” he lamented.

Zafar claimed that he himself has been the victim of doxxing, with social media users inciting hatred against him and attempting to locate his home.

“They (the Malaysians targeting him) asked many Rohingya where my house is located,” he claimed. - Mkini

Luas arahan isytihar harta warga SPRM kepada pasangan, tanggungan

2026-06-11T10:10:09.126+08:00

Pemerhati rasuah berkata langkah itu perlu disusuli semakan silang dengan rekod hartanah, syarikat, akaun kewangan dan gaya hidup.

SPRM mewajibkan semua warga agensi itu membuat atau mengemas kini pengisytiharan harta dalam tempoh sebulan dari tarikh pemakluman rasmi akan dikeluarkan kelak.

PETALING JAYA:

Pemerhati Rasuah Malaysia (MCW) berkata arahan Suruhanjaya Pencegahan Rasuah Malaysia (SPRM) mewajibkan warga agensi itu mengisytiharkan harta perlu diperluaskan kepada pasangan dan tanggungan mereka bagi menutup sebarang ruang penyembunyian aset.

Presidennya, Jais Abdul Karim, berkata pengisytiharan harta individu semata-mata mungkin belum mencukupi untuk menangani cabaran rasuah moden yang semakin kompleks.

“Pengalaman di pelbagai negara menunjukkan aset diperoleh secara tidak sah jarang didaftarkan atas nama sendiri, sebaliknya diletakkan bawah nama pasangan, anak-anak, ahli keluarga terdekat, rakan kongsi atau proksi tertentu.

“Atas sebab itu, MCW berpandangan sudah tiba masa kerajaan dan SPRM mempertimbangkan mekanisme pengisytiharan kepentingan lebih menyeluruh melibatkan pasangan serta tanggungan yang mempunyai hubungan kewangan langsung dengan pegawai berkenaan,” katanya kepada FMT.

Beliau berkata, pendekatan itu bukan bertujuan menceroboh privasi keluarga, tetapi bagi memastikan integriti sistem dapat dipelihara dan ruang penyembunyian aset dapat diminimumkan.

Katanya, aspek lebih penting bukan sekadar pengisytiharan tetapi proses pengesahan, audit dan pemantauan berkala.

“Jika tiada semakan silang dengan rekod hartanah, syarikat, akaun kewangan dan gaya hidup, pengisytiharan harta berisiko menjadi sekadar dokumen pentadbiran tanpa impak signifikan,” katanya memaklumkan integriti tidak boleh bergantung kepada kejujuran deklarasi semata-mata.

Pada 8 Jun lalu, Ketua Pesuruhjaya SPRM, Abd Halim Aman, dilaporkan mewajibkan semua warga agensi itu membuat atau mengemas kini pengisytiharan harta masing-masing dalam tempoh sebulan dari tarikh pemakluman rasmi akan dikeluarkan kelak.

Beliau berkata, arahan itu adalah langkah awal bawah kepimpinannya bagi memperkukuh integriti organisasi, sekali gus membina semula kepercayaan rakyat terhadap SPRM sebagai institusi yang bebas, profesional dan adil.

Sementara itu, Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Rasuah Busters, Nurhayati Nordin, berkata langkah tersebut wajar dipuji kerana memulakan mesej integriti daripada sudut dalaman institusi SPRM sendiri.

Katanya, bagaimanapun langkah itu akan dilihat sebagai sekadar naratif atau publisiti jika ia dilaksanakan dengan pilih kasih, tiada pemantauan dan hasilnya tidak diteliti serta diperincikan.

“Maksud saya, bukan isytihar dan berhenti di situ sahaja. Tentunya kita nak tindakan diambil terutamanya kepada mana-mana ‘red flags’ yang dilihat.

“Ini kerana isu pemilikan harta, saham, dan sebagainya pernah menjadi satu isu yang menimbulkan persepsi hingga menjejaskan kredibiliti dan kewibawaan SPRM itu sendiri,” katanya.

Nurhayati juga menggesa arahan pengisytiharan harta itu dilaksanakan tanpa pilih kasih dan imuniti diberikan kepada sesiapa.

“Kita tak mahu tengok bahawa arahan ini sebagai sebuah naratif atau sekadar publisiti semata-mata, tapi ia perlu boleh diterjemahkan kepada reformasi SPRM yang sebenar-benarnya,” katanya. - FMT

Selat Hormuz ditutup sepenuhnya, kata tentera Iran

2026-06-11T10:08:48.133+08:00

Laluan itu ditutup kepada semua lalu lintas termasuk kapal tangki minyak dan kapal komersial.

Tentera Iran umum penutupan penuh Selat Hormuz kerana pencerobohan AS, sambil memberi amaran ‘sebarang pergerakan’ melaluinya akan menjadi sasaran. (Gambar EPA Images)

ISTANBUL:

Ibu pejabat tentera Iran pada awal Khamis mengumumkan penutupan sepenuhnya Selat Hormuz kepada semua kapal susulan ketegangan dan permusuhan semakin memuncak di rantau itu, lapor Anadolu Ajansi (AA).

Dalam kenyataan disiarkan stesen televisyen kerajaan Iran, ibu pejabat Khatam al-Anbiya, berkata laluan air strategik itu ditutup kepada semua lalu lintas, termasuk kapal tangki minyak dan kapal komersial, susulan apa yang disifatkannya sebagai ketidakamanan di rantau itu.

Ia memberi amaran bahawa ‘sebarang pergerakan’ melalui selat itu akan menjadi sasaran.

Menurut kenyataan itu, keputusan berkenaan dibuat berikutan ‘pencerobohan Amerika Syarikat (AS)’ dan serangan AS baru-baru ini ke atas kawasan di wilayah Hormozgan selatan Iran. - FMT

No PH-BN cooperation planned after state polls, says Amanah leader

2026-06-11T10:07:18.559+08:00

Amanah secretary-general Faiz Fadzil says PH’s current focus is on strengthening its position in preparation for any political developments that may arise after the elections.

Amanah secretary-general Faiz Fadzil said the party is confident it will be allocated winnable seats in the state elections. (Facebook pic)

PETALING JAYA:

Pakatan Harapan (PH) has no plans to cooperate with Barisan Nasional (BN) after the Johor and Negeri Sembilan elections, according to Amanah secretary-general Faiz Fadzil.

Faiz said PH’s current focus was on strengthening its position in preparation for any political developments that might arise after the elections, Utusan Malaysia reported.

“As of now, there are no plans for cooperation with BN after the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections,” he was quoted as saying.

He also said Amanah was confident it would be allocated winnable seats in the state elections, and that talks on PH seat distributions were proceeding smoothly.

Last week, BN chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the coalition was set for the Negeri Sembilan election and remained open to continuing its cooperation with PH to retain the unity government in the state.

However, Zahid said it was too early to hold formal discussions on electoral cooperation between the two coalitions.

In Johor, menteri besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi of Umno said he would rather give up his position than be part of a state government that includes DAP. His remarks drew criticism from political commentator Tajuddin Rasdi, who accused Onn Hafiz of displaying a “racist personality”.

DAP secretary-general Loke Siew Fook also mocked Onn Hafiz’s position, pointing out that BN and DAP leaders currently sit together in the federal Cabinet under the unity government.

Onn Hafiz rejected claims that his position was rooted in arrogance or racism, insisting that it was based on principle and respect for the mandate given to BN by voters.

He said BN’s cooperation with PH at the federal level arose from the political situation after the 15th general election, where no coalition secured a simple majority.

He said the situation was different in Johor as BN was given a clear mandate during the last state polls. - FMT

Mature campaigns needed for Johor, Negeri Sembilan polls, says Salleh

2026-06-11T10:05:46.642+08:00

Sabah Umno treasurer says campaigns must be conducted professionally and respectfully, with the focus on state issues, policy proposals, and solutions.

Salleh Said Keruak said the upcoming elections present a unique challenge, with some parties that cooperate at the federal level likely to face off against one another at the state level amid a significantly changed electoral landscape. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA:

A Sabah Umno leader has urged parties to campaign with maturity and prioritise state issues ahead of the Johor and Negeri Sembilan elections to win over new voters and the silent majority.

Salleh Said Keruak, the Sabah Umno treasurer, said the upcoming elections presented a unique challenge where some parties that cooperate at the federal level would face off against one another at the state level amid a significantly changed electoral landscape.

“Healthy competition is part of democracy. However, political maturity requires parties to compete on ideas, performance, and leadership while preserving mutual respect and working relationships,” he said in a Facebook post.

FMT previously quoted analysts as saying that personal attacks and mudslinging were likely to remain fixtures of the Johor state election campaign, as such tactics were too effective for parties to abandon.

Perikatan Nasional, Barisan Nasional (BN), and Pakatan Harapan (PH) are expected to contest all 56 seats in the Johor state election. In Negeri Sembilan, BN announced its readiness to go solo in all 36 seats and PH, in response, said it would do the same.

Salleh, a former chief minister, said the pool of hardcore supporters was gradually shrinking, while the silent majority continued to grow.

“Winning their confidence may well determine the outcome of the election.

“Ultimately, elections will not be decided solely by traditional supporters. They will be determined by new voters and the silent majority who are looking for credible leadership, practical solutions, and a genuine commitment to public service.”

He said campaigns must be conducted professionally and respectfully, with the focus on state issues, policy proposals, and solutions rather than personal attacks or attempts to create hostility.

He said voters were increasingly focused on issues that affect their daily lives such as the economy, cost of living, employment opportunities, governance, leadership credibility, and future prospects.

“Political leaders and campaign teams must be careful with their statements. In the age of social media, a single remark can go viral, create unnecessary tensions, and trigger disputes that may outlast the election itself,” said Salleh, a former Usukan assemblyman.

“Voters are also looking for elected representatives who remain present and serve throughout their term, not those who appear only during election campaigns and then disappear,” he added.

The Election Commission is expected to hold a meeting tomorrow to discuss the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state polls. - FMT

Tread carefully with returning Noh Omar, Umno told

2026-06-11T10:04:13.939+08:00

Analysts say the ex-Selangor Umno chief can be a loose cannon at times and embodies the warlord-style politics that Umno must move away from.

Noh Omar was sacked from Umno in January 2023 and joined Bersatu the following year. He announced his departure in February, following a mass sacking of party leaders.

PETALING JAYA:

Umno has been advised to tread carefully in welcoming back former Selangor chief Noh Omar, who left the party less than two years ago for Bersatu.

Universiti Sains Malaysia’s Ahmad Fauzi Abdul Hamid said Noh’s return may be motivated by a desire to contest under Umno’s banner in the next general election (GE16).

Ahmad Fauzi Abdul Hamid.

He questioned the former Tanjong Karang MP’s stated reason of having been persuaded by Umno’s anti-DAP stance in Johor, calling it “foolish”.

“He comes from Selangor, where the partnership between Barisan Nasional-Umno and Pakatan Harapan-DAP is still on.

“And Johor Umno’s recent anti-DAP stand could easily be conceived as a pre-state election gimmick to secure hardline Malay nationalistic voters, without discounting the possibility of changes after the election,” he told FMT.

Syaza Shukri of the International Islamic University Malaysia said Umno could easily justify its ongoing partnership with PH as necessary for pragmatic purposes and political survival.

Syaza Shukri.

She also questioned Noh’s sincerity in championing Umno’s cause, saying he essentially left a sinking ship in Bersatu, having done the same after Umno’s worst ever electoral performance at the 15th general election (GE15) in 2022.

While he brings grassroots support and decades of political experience, Syaza said Umno must be wary of the warlord-style politics that Noh embodies, from which the party needs to move away.

“These warlords and traditional machinery may not be enough for Umno’s electoral success. We have moved to social media where national issues and narratives have become more important for voters.”

Fauzi warned that Noh may be a loose cannon of sorts, having previously made controversial remarks, such as that stealing was only wrong if one was caught.

He said Noh was also fiercely critical of Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi post-GE15, for which he was not fielded, and had called for Zahid to step down.

Fauzi warned against Umno using Noh in its election plans, even if only for campaigning, saying it could backfire on the party.

“Umno should watch out. Should the unexpected come out from Noh’s mouth during election campaigning, it may well damage Umno’s chances at the polls in a multiracial state like Selangor.”

Noh was sacked from Umno in January 2023 following a violation of party discipline during GE15. In July 2024, he confirmed that he had joined Bersatu, and was appointed to its Supreme Council in early 2025.

He resigned from the Bersatu leadership position in February following the sacking of 17 party leaders, including Hamzah Zainudin, expressing disappointment with the party’s decision.

However, unlike other current and former party leaders aligned with Hamzah, Noh chose not to be a part of the former Bersatu deputy president’s Reset movement, launched one day after his sacking.

On June 7, Noh revealed he had quit Bersatu and rejoined Umno under a special initiative designed to welcome back former members.

Syaza said Noh’s return could be interpreted as acknowledgment that Zahid made the correct strategic call by keeping Umno in power and working with DAP.

She said she does not expect Noh to pressure Zahid into pulling the plug on Umno’s support for the unity government, especially with the prospect of a snap GE16 looming.

“Why risk uncertainties when Umno is comfortably in federal power now?” she said. - FMT

Narrow wins, royal row will disadvantage Umno in Negeri Sembilan

2026-06-11T10:02:00.387+08:00

Analysts expect PH to retain seats won comfortably in 2023, but say Umno may struggle to defend its constituencies due to their slim victory margins.

Eight of Barisan Nasional’s 14 state assembly seats in Negeri Sembilan were secured with sub-700 vote majorities due to stiff competition from Perikatan Nasional. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA:

Umno faces an uphill battle in the upcoming Negeri Sembilan election, with analysts pointing to its many slim majority wins in 2023, and shifting Malay sentiment following a recent royal dispute in the state.

Syaza Shukri.

Syaza Shukri of the International Islamic University Malaysia said Umno appeared more exposed than its unity government partner, Pakatan Harapan, due to stiff competition faced from Perikatan Nasional previously.

“Umno is the one in trouble. Their majorities are small because they had to compete with PN for Malay votes,” she told FMT.

In contrast, Syaza said PH was better positioned to defend most of the seats it won at the state election three years ago. “Most of the seats that PH won in 2023 were secured with big majorities, especially by DAP.”

The Negeri Sembilan assembly was dissolved last Friday after Umno assemblymen withdrew support for menteri besar Aminuddin Harun over his handling of a royal dispute involving four chieftains seeking to remove Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir as Yang di‑Pertuan Besar.

On June 9, Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said Barisan Nasional will contest the Negeri Sembilan polls on its own, after PH announced its intention to vie for all 36 state assembly seats.

In the 2023 polls, PH and BN contested as allies, winning 17 and 14 seats, respectively. PN won five, with three secured by PAS and two by Bersatu.

However, eight of BN’s seats were secured with sub-700 vote majorities: Jeram Padang (693), Lenggeng (685), Senaling (662), Palong (564), Sungai Lui (535), Seri Menanti (370), Kota (135) and Juasseh (78).

In contrast, only two of PH’s 17 seats were the subject of narrow wins: Klawang (577) and Ampangan (329).

Syaza said BN’s seats, most of which are Malay-majority constituencies, are vulnerable even to modest swings in support, while Umno may be at a disadvantage due to the part it played in the royal row.

“The people, from my understanding and observations, are not happy with the crisis and blame has been put on Umno. So voters would want to punish Umno,” she said.

Royal fiasco generated sympathy

Mazlan Ali.

Universiti Teknologi Malaysia’s Mazlan Ali said the royal dispute had generated sympathy for Tuanku Muhriz among Negeri Sembilan folk while creating negative perceptions of Umno among some voters.

“As a result, there could be political repercussions for Umno because there is a perception among the public that the party was not friendly towards the Yang di-Pertuan Besar,” he said.

However, Hisomuddin Bakar of Ilham Centre said the outcome of the state polls will ultimately depend on voter turnout and where they are concentrated.

Hisomuddin Bakar.

He said PH’s strength lies in urban, Chinese-majority and mixed constituencies, while Umno remains competitive in many Malay-majority seats backed by its longstanding grassroots networks.

Of the state’s 36 seats, 24 have Malay-majority electorates, making them key battlegrounds in the election, he added.

“Although BN and PH each have their own areas of strength, the real deciding factor in this state election lies in the 24 Malay-majority seats that will be contested in three-cornered fights.

“The ability of both coalitions to manage their campaign strategies, mobilise supporters to turn out and win over fence-sitters will be the key factors determining the final outcome,” he added.

Sivamurugan Pandian.

Universiti Sains Malaysia’s Sivamurugan Pandian said PH remains the frontrunner to win the state polls thanks to the advantages of incumbency.

He said PKR and DAP’s established networks in Negeri Sembilan, coupled with Aminuddin’s leadership, placed the coalition in a relatively strong position.

Still, Sivamurugan cautioned that cost of living concerns and tensions between PH and BN supporters could influence voter behaviour.

“PH remains favourable, but not without risks,” he said. - FMT

Ringgit eases vs US dollar as inflation data lifts Fed outlook

2026-06-11T09:58:24.062+08:00

The local note slips to 4.0685/4.0750 as stronger CPI data reinforces higher-for-longer rate expectations.

KUALA LUMPUR:

The ringgit opened higher against major currencies today but eased marginally against the US dollar after stronger-than-expected United States inflation reinforced expectations that the Federal Reserve (Fed) could keep interest rates higher for longer.

At 8am, the local currency slipped to 4.0685/4.0750 against the greenback from Wednesday’s close of 4.0670/4.0715.

Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Afzanizam Rashid said the US Consumer Price Index (CPI) was the main focus overnight, with inflation accelerating to 4.2% in May, the highest level since May 2023.

“The statistical releases gave the impression that the Fed is likely to be more hawkish when the Federal Open Market Committee members hold their meeting next week.

“US Treasury yields continued to climb, with the 10-year yield rising to 4.55%, suggesting that inflation risks are increasing,” he added.

However, Afzanizam said foreign exchange markets are likely to remain cautious ahead of the Fed’s response to the latest CPI data and how it would be reflected in its projections for the federal funds rate.

The local currency traded higher against a basket of major currencies.

It strengthened against the Japanese yen to 2.5343/2.5385 from 2.5347/2.5377, appreciated against the British pound to 5.4367/5.4454 from 5.4486/5.4546, and rose against the euro to 4.6934/4.7009 from 4.7006/4.7058 at Wednesday’s close.

The ringgit traded mostly higher against its regional peers.

It appreciated against the Singapore dollar to 3.1583/3.1636 from 3.1591/3.1628 and strengthened against the Thai baht to 12.3363/12.3635 from 12.3688/12.3871 previously.

However, it eased against the Indonesian rupiah to 226.7/227.1 from 226.6/227.0 and was little changed against the Philippine peso at 6.62/6.64 compared with 6.62/6.63 at yesterday’s close. - FMT