What's Happening Around Malaysia...

Petrol station operators hit by weekly swing in fuel prices

2017-05-11T11:26:00.000+08:00

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PETALING JAYA: Many petrol station operators are giving up their operations as they can no longer cope with the weekly swing in retail fuel prices.

Petrol Dealers Association of Malaysia (PDAM) President Datuk Khairul Annuar said since the implementation of the monthly price change mechanism in December 2014, between 30 to 40 stations per brand had surrendered their operations.

“More so in recent weeks following the weekly price change mechanism starting April 1.

“We are concerned that more dealers will give up their dealership if the trend continues,” he told The Star yesterday.

Representing the excos of Shell, Petronas, BHP, Caltex and Petron in PDAM, Khairul said kiosk operators nationwide were affected including in Sabah and Sarawak where traffic volume was lower.

“This is especially in areas with too many stations within the same vicinity, such as in Johor Baru and in rural areas where their sale is low and dealers don’t have a petrol mart or convenient store income to subsidise the weekly loss,” he said.

To cushion their losses, dealers may have to retrench workers to cut monthly overhead expenses.

“If cost continues to be an issue, 14,000 people will lose their jobs as we will go for full self-service,” he said.

There are a total of 3,500 petrol stations nationwide with a workforce of 50,000, of which 14,000 are forecourt staff (pump attendants).

In a nationwide survey conducted by the body at 840 petrol stations, it was found that only 21% are foreign workers while the rest are locals, contrary to popular belief, said Khairul.

“Our survey shows that we have around 40% foreign workers only in urban areas,” he added.

Dealers, he said, had been selling their fuel stock at a loss due to the drop in the ceiling price.

“Carrying weekly stock means a total loss for the dealers if they cannot clear it quickly before the new price is announced.”

This is especially the case for RON97 and diesel where the sale is low but the stock is high, said Khairul.

“For RON95 petrol, with a stock balance of three to five days on the midnight the weekly price change is announced, dealers will have to sell with zero margin for three to five days of the week.

“A drop of 10 sen will wipe out all margin for petrol sales for three to five days and dealers have to sacrifice all their margin for the Government’s weekly ceiling price mechanism.”

Dealers, he said, needed more time to clear their stock at the old rates.

PDAM estimated that dealers could lose between RM3,000 and RM5,000 per week while some stations only make around RM5,000 net monthly.

Calling the price change “unhealthy”, petrol dealers are hoping for a limit of no more than a 5 sen price change from the week before to stabilise the market and cushion either gains or losses.

Khairul said that the commission due to petrol dealers should also be reviewed as overhead costs had increased tremendously since the last revision in 2008.

“Diesel typically sells less compared to petrol but stock is high and gross margin is only 7 sen.

“Therefore, a drop of 10 sen hits us hard and this gives more reason to review the margin for all petroleum products,” said Khairul.

10,000 jobs on offer at Umno Youth expo

2017-05-11T11:22:00.002+08:00

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KUALA LUMPUR: Over 10,000 job opportunities from 100 companies await visitors in conjunction with the two-day Umno Youth Expo at the grounds of the Bukit Jalil National Stadium here.

Umno Youth Young Workers Bureau chairman Dazman Shah Daud said through the expo, SPM school leavers right up to university graduates could apply for jobs from the various sectors, including banking, engineering, administrative and support services.

“Some firms hold on-the-spot interviews and offer letters will be issued immediately,” he said.

He said among the well-known companies holding exhibitions at the expo which started yesterday were SP Setia Bhd, Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd, Westports Malaysia Sdn Bhd, CIMB Bank Bhd, Unit Peneraju Agenda Bumiputera (Teraju), Telekom Malaysia Bhd and Prasarana Malaysia Bhd.

He said visitors could also attend a clinic session on how to prepare for an interview and write a resume, and talks on business opportunities by the exhibitors.

David Francis, 36, from Shah Alam, visited the expo to look for work after losing his job.

“This is a good opportunity for job seekers without having to go to every company because here we can directly deal with many firms in one place,” he said.

Novelist sues actress-producer Ziela Jalil for defamation

2017-04-27T16:44:00.002+08:00

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KUALA LUMPUR: A novelist is suing actress and film producer Datuk Norzilah Abdul Jalil, better known as Ziela Jalil (pic), for defamation over remarks on social media.

Siti Rosmizah Semail filed the suit at the High Court registry here through her lawyers Rafie Mohd Shafie & Associates on Thursday.

In her statement of claim, Siti Rosmizah named Ziela as the sole defendant.

She said Ziela had uploaded, published and publicised the defamatory words in her Instagram account, which has 551,000 followers, on Feb 9 and April 10.

Siti Rosmizah, who is also co-producer of popular drama series 7 Hari Mencintaiku, alleged that Ziela had also made defamatory statements when interviewed by a Mingguan Malaysia reporter on April 16.

The plaintiff alleged that the defamatory words meant or would mean that she was inhumane and cruel; a liar and dishonest person; bossy and selfish; without principles, unethical and without morals; a hypocrite; and had failed to keep her promise.

She said a letter of demand was sent to Ziela on April 18 seeking a retraction of the comments, an apology and damages as a result of the defamatory words but to no result.

Siti Rosmizah is seeking an order for Ziela to delete the defamatory statements from her Instagram account; an injunction to prevent her from publishing, publicising and/or spreading the statements; an apology; and special, general, exemplary and punitive damages.

PLUS highway tolls go cashless

2017-04-27T16:36:00.000+08:00

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Traffic snarl: Motorists stuck in traffic jam on the first day of toll plazas going cashless.

KUALA LUMPUR: All tolls on PLUS highways are now fully electronic and no cash payments will be accepted.

PLUS Malaysia Berhad managing director Datuk Azman Ismail said as of yesterday, PLUS highway users were required to pay toll with PlusMiles card, Touch ‘n Go (TnG) Card, SmartTag, or MyKad equipped with TnG chips.

“The objective of a fully electronic system is to ensure a smoother and faster toll transaction and a more comfortable journey for road users,” said Azman.

“The electronic toll collection system is 300% faster than the manual cash system.”

A SmartTag lane can cater up to 1,000 vehicles per hour and a TnG lane, 600 vehicles per hour, compared with only 180 vehicles per hour at a manual cash lane, he added.

Azman said the migration to full electronic toll collection system was implemented by PLUS in stages since 2008.

The affected highways, which have a total of 94 toll plazas, are the North-South Expressway (NSE), North-South Expressway Central Link, New Klang Valley Expressway, Federal Highway Route 2, Seremban-Port Dickson Highway, Butterworth-Kulim Expressway, Malaysia–Singapore Second Crossing and Penang Bridge.

Speaking at a press conference at the Sungai Besi Toll Plaza, Azman said that feedback and the level of awareness from highway users on the cashless system have been positive, with a 92% penetration nationwide.

He added that PLUS has been running campaigns and advertisements to create awareness on the migration to the new system.

Lanes to top up and purchase TnG cards will be opened for 24 hours at all toll plazas.

PlusMiles cards are also available at all PLUS Customer Service Centres operating at selected toll plaza offices.

Meanwhile, Azman gave an assurance that all existing PLUS toll booth attendants numbering more than 2,000 would not be affected and that some would be redeployed to nearby toll plazas to assist with the new system.

Touch ‘n Go Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Syahrunizam Samsudin said there were no plans to reduce the price of the SmartTag (RM127.20) or TnG card (RM10.60, without pre-loaded value).

He also clarified that the service charge to top up a TnG card and the cap on the reload amount were business models of respective retailers, and customers always have the options to reload their cards elsewhere.

Raja Bomoh gives Jakim the cold shoulder

2017-03-23T10:31:00.003+08:00

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PETALING JAYA: Ibrahim Mat Zin - better known as Raja Bomoh Sedunia - has failed to show up at the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) on Wednesday.

He had been summoned to give an explanation about the now-viral video of him performing a ritual on a beach.

“On March 22, Jakim took the initiative to call Ibrahim for an explanation about the viral video footage of him performing a ritual, but he did not show up,” Director-General of Jakim Tan Sri Haji Othman bin Mustapha said in a statement.

The three-minute video of Ibrahim - who is also known as, performing a ritual on a beach to protect Malaysia from a North Korean nuclear attack went viral recently.

It shows him and his three assistants wading in water with two coconuts, a pair of sticks used as binoculars, five bamboo cannons, a carpet and a bowl of seawater.

On the ritual itself, Othman said that Ibrahim's rituals are unIslamic and advised people against following them.

“Several states have agreed in their State Fatwa Committee meetings that the rituals and practices of Ibrahim bin Mat Zin or Bomoh Ibrahim Mat Zin that uses certain objects are against Islamic laws and are illegal,” he said.

He added that a study by the Jakim Expert Panel have also found that Ibrahim Mat Zin’s rituals are contrary to the Islamic faith as it contains elements of idolatry and superstitious practices.

On March 20, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar told reporters that Ibrahim would be summoned under Section 111 of the Criminal Procedure Code after a slew of police reports were made against him.

Ibrahim also performed a ritual outside the National Institute of Forensic Medicine at Hospital Kuala Lumpur here over the assassination of Kim Jong-nam, the half-brother of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

A controversial figure, Ibrahim first made headlines in March 2014 when he conducted two rituals at the KL International Airport to supposedly locate the missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370.

Weekly fuel prices to take effect every Thursday

2017-03-23T10:28:00.003+08:00

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PETALING JAYA: Motorists will have to keep an eye on petrol and diesel prices weekly following the Domestic Trade, Co-operatives and Consumer Affairs Ministry's announcement that they will change every Thursday.

Minister Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin made the announcement on RTM's TV1 5pm news on Wednesday, and said that the new mechanism would allow consumers to enjoy a more stable retail price for fuel compared to the monthly pricing currently in use.

The new mechanism will come into effect on March 29.

Weekly fuel prices will be announced every Wednesday and the new price will be enforced the next day.

"The first announcement will be on Wednesday, March 29, which is next week and the new petrol and diesel prices will be enforced on March 30," he said.

Hamzah also said fuel station operators will be allowed to give discounts on fuel, provided that prior permission is obtained from the ministry.

"Station operators are reminded to adhere to the new prices and serious action will be taken against those who do not," he said.

Hamzah said the ministry had had several consultations with oil companies, station operators, non-governmental organisations and other relevant parties before coming up with the change in the pricing mechanism.

This was later presented to the Cabinet and the weekly price mechanism was approved on Feb 22.

Earlier this month, Hamzah had announced that fuel ceiling price would be announced every week starting April and that it would be done on a Monday or Saturday.

Lima 2017: Malaysia officially receives its latest RMAF A400M aircraft

2017-03-23T10:26:00.002+08:00

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LANGKAWI: The fourth and final Airbus A400M military aircraft was officially delivered to the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) by Airbus Wednesday.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein took delivery of the A400M from Head of Military, Airbus Defence and Space Fernando Alonso on the sideline of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace 2017 (Lima 2017) exhibition here.

Also present at the ceremony was Air Force chief Jen Datuk Seri Affendi Buang.

According to Affendi, the A400M fleet ensures that the RMAF is well placed to respond to, and undertake a wide range of military and humanitarian operations within Malaysia and in the Asean region.

"We are very proud to take this delivery of our fourth A400M, which is equipped with the latest tactical capabilities," he said.

The first RMAF's A400M was delivered to Malaysia in 2015 and had performed a special fly-past at the opening ceremony of LIMA'15.

LIMA '17 is the 14th edition since its inauguration in 1991.

It has gathered 520 companies from 35 countries representing more than 55 per cent of the world's top 100 maritime and aerospace companies.

More than 300 defence and security delegations, 55 visiting warships and boats, and 106 aircraft were at the event.

Mighty shows in Langkawi

2017-03-23T10:24:00.003+08:00

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12 o’clock high: South Korea Air Force’s Black Eagles executing a move during their aerial display in Langkawi.

LANGKAWI: The Langkawi Inter-national Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (Lima), which is into its 14th edition this year, took off with a stunning aerial display, rocking the skies of the idyllic island.

The flypast gambit by the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) also wowed spectators at the opening ceremony at the Mahsuri Interna-tional Exhibition Centre.

The show started off with a bang and ended with an “explosion” before a wall of flame appeared on the tarmac as a squadron of planes from the RMAF made a spectacular fly-by.

Concluding the ceremony was a flypast by three Airbus A400M, Malaysia’s latest military transport aircraft belonging to the RMAF.

Later in the afternoon, the Black Eagles of the South Korea Air Force conquered the air space with their awesome stunts.

They even drew a heart shape and the yin-yang circle of the South Korea national flag using the smoke trails of their KAI T-50 Golden Eagle aircraft.

The Russian Knights, the aerobatic display team of the Russian Air Force, then tore the skies in their Sukhoi Su-30SM fighter jets.

Also wowing the crowd were RMAF’s Sukhoi Su-30MKM, French Air Force’s Dassault Rafale, Royal Thai Air Force’s Gripen fighter jet and a double dose of the United States Air Force’s B-1B Lancer variable sweep-wing bomber.

Earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who launched the five-day Lima 2017, addressed the crowd.

Among those present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai and Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein.

During a tour of the exhibition booths, Zahid urged Asean member countries to work together in the Asean Defence Industry Collabo-ration.

“The total revenue of this industry would amount to about US$100bil (RM442bil) by 2030.

“Malaysia has to take the opportunity to participate in the industry collaboration,” he told reporters later yesterday.

International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed said the aerospace industry in the country was expected to grow at 7% this year.

Mustapa noted that the maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) industry would continue to expand especially in the engine and engine components segment with an MRO revenue target of RM6bil.

Mustapa spoke after witnessing the signing of MoUs and MoAs between the ministry and several companies like UMW Corp, UMW Land, and CTRM.

He also said the Government viewed the aerospace industry as a critical sector which offered opportunities for the transfer of advanced technologies.

"Joy Revfa Able Give Happiness" - Hafiz Hamidun

2017-03-23T10:16:00.001+08:00

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SHAH ALAM: A brief introduction Hafiz Hamidun with Joy Revfa not prevent them to get married next May than he thought Joy was able to bring happiness in their household later.

Obviously Hafiz, 33, he was in no hurry to make decisions concerning the contrary believe that women are able to carry out his wife as he had hoped.

"Before this I had a relationship of love for two or three years, but do not be too. But who would have thought that the new woman I know this is for my soul mate.

"I'm not denying that we are very short introduction time, but I believe we can know each other's last remaining this. After marriage shall know oneself, there is no problem," he said.

Hafiz mother of Laila Sarji the ring to the ring finger Joy Revfa.

Hafiz met at the pertungannya with Joy or Siti Arifah Amin held at The Venue Shah Alam on Wednesday.

The couple were engaged after recognizing each other about four weeks ago.

Joy, 30, who was previously married had a son named Arryan Firdaus is now three years old.

They also plan to hold a reception on July 1.

Meanwhile, asked to comment on the negative perception some quarters that Hafiz will choose the woman as the wife of its property, singer of songs divine was soon denied.

"I do not know who he was before. But thank God because he has his own business empire.

"But the shock did not say that (marriage because property) because no matter our religion for guidance on how to choose a life partner. I got to see his family, his religion, appearance and other factors.

"Somehow-somehow I also thank Joy for my property," he quipped.

Joy was accompanied by her mother, Sofia Abbas (right).

In addition to singing and songwriting, Hafiz also has his own record company, which Arteffects International and also ventured into the fashion business through brand Miraj Concept.

Besides Hafiz said he also did not mind the responsibility as the 'father of soon' which will digalasnya after marrying Joy.

"Thank God I'm having fun, I also like slaves. Previously she raise a child alone. It is also for the future of her children.

"Then there are men in the family to guide them. Although Joy is the leader in business, he still needs a head in life," he said.

Joy Hafiz and each has his own business empire.

Meanwhile, Joy told also dismissed the notion that decisions taken their brief to get engaged and married pushed the issue of wealth.

"If you want to compare with me, he had his own business empire is bigger than me.

"We both are entrepreneurs so no need arise because we want to get married because she already existing property perniagagan own. We both have its own assets," said Joy that comes from Kuantan, Pahang.

Joy light, Hafiz quiet demeanor makes him open minded to marry again after her first marriage failed almost three years ago.

"He's a very calm and loving. Hafiz very different from the other men I've ever known.

"I'm confident he can guide me and children up to heaven. I pray this relationship up to the end of our life," he said.

Lovely dais typical for engagement ceremony Hafiz and Joy.

Joy admits, she also does not mind when her personal story in the past talked back especially after his relationship with Hafiz media reported.

"I accept all criticism with a positive. I'm not surprised people what to say.

"As a businessman I have always received negative criticism will comment," he said.

Johor Sultan Gifts At its people - JCorp

2017-03-23T10:06:00.001+08:00

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Sultan Ibrahim (second from left) officiating Housing Projects Sustainable race Johor at Galleri @ City in Johor Bahru on March 22, 2017 witnessed by Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin (three of Kirn) President and Chief Executive of JCorp, Datuk Kamaruzzaman Abu Kassim (right).

JOHOR BARU: The Johor Dream House Project Foundation, Sultan Ibrahim, who is also the Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim outburst late Sultan Iskandar will see the people of this country have the opportunity to own their own homes from as low as RM80,000.

President and Chief Executive of Johor Corporation (JCorp) Datuk Kamaruzzaman Abu Kassim said the initiative was not just a housing project alone, but it is a new innovation in the housing sector that can trigger changes in the sector.

"This is because, Johor Dream Home Nation not only sold at reasonable prices but much cheaper than the market price now.

"All this is the brainchild of His Royal Highness Tuanku itself but as a gift to all the people of Johor in conjunction with the official birthday of the king," he said at the soft launch of the initiative at the Galleria City on Wednesday.

Polluting dust also consented to the ceremony Johor Sultan Ibrahim and Raja Permaisuri Zarith Sofia Sultan Idris.

Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin and state executive councilors were present.

Concerned that some people might Squeezed by financial constraints, Yayasan Sultan Ibrahim also worked with the Bank for financing to potential buyers.

"For this purpose, the Bank has agreed to allocate a fund of RM500 million to the financing facility houses priced from as low as RM80,000 per unit in the program.

"What's more, qualified buyers only need to pay a deposit as low as RM1 to offer loans at 100 percent," he said.

Kamaruzzaman said the project would be implemented by companies in its group, Johor Land Bhd, a joint venture with two other companies in the two regions, namely Bandar Dato 'Onn and Bandar Baru Majidee.

Bandar Dato 'Onn, the project will be categorized as a Dream House Sultan Ibrahim, will be built on an area of more than 520 hectares of 21:32 home unit.

House prices in the area consisting of terraced houses, semi-detached and detached houses starting from RM80,000 to RM100,000, is expected to start construction before the end of this year.

Meanwhile, a total of 320 residential units consisting of two residential blocks, each of which has 12 residential floors, will be built on a land area of 2.75 hectares in Bandar Baru Majidee.

With a price of less than RM150,000 per unit, the construction work is expected to begin this summer and be completed in late 2019.

In addition, Kamaruzzaman said a further project is being designed by S'City Mutiara Sdn Bhd on Malay reserve land in Bukit Saujana, covering an area of 3,055 hectares involving 1,000 housing units.

The selling price is expected from RM297,000 to RM420,000.

"Interestingly, all kinds of home with this affordable selling price will also include other amenities such as televisions, refrigerators, washing machines and cook top. It thus reflects the suitability of his title as Dream Home Nation Johor," he said.

Cheap Beauty and the Beast: GSC, TGV Refund Money To Customer

2017-03-14T10:56:00.001+08:00

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PETALING JAYA: Golden Screen Cinemas (GSC) and TGV Cinemas offer refunds to customers who buy movie tickets Beauty and the Beast following the suspension of the film.

Customers of both cinema operators, who buy tickets online or mobile application will receive automatic refund to their bank account.

However, customers who purchase a ticket at the counter have to come to the cinema where each ticket purchase for a refund of their money.

Customers are advised to bring along proof of purchase.

GSC in a statement on Facebook on Monday said the repayment will begin at 11 am to 10 pm on Wednesday, 31 March.

Film Beauty and the Beast in Malaysia which is supposed to start on March 16 has been postponed.

The film's distributor Walt Disney Co (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd told the review of the internal causes of the suspension of the film in the country.

Chong Wei Wins Fourth Consecutive All England Championships

2017-03-14T10:50:00.000+08:00

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Lee Chong Wei.

PETALING JAYA: The national badminton champion Datuk Lee Chong Wei won the fourth title at the All England Badminton Championships Barclaycard Arena, Birmingham on Sunday.

The world No.1 took just 45 minutes to beat Chinese player Shi Yuqi after starting well in the first set with 21-12.

In the second set, Chong Wei continued subdued pace consistent with Yuqi 21-10 and clinch his first title this year.

According to Chong Wei after the match, he will continue to defend the title next year.

"All England among my favorite tournament and will also compete at the World Championships in Glasgow action (August) later.

"Thanks to the fans who continue to support me."

For the record, Chong Wei won the All England champion also won in 2010, 2011 and 2014.

The Ministry of Defence will be the most recent general pension scheme

2017-03-12T10:47:00.003+08:00

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Pension scheme new respect among business ministry solve the problems facing veterans who are not pensionable.

MUAR: Ministry of Defense will announce the scheme pension services new to retired Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) in the near future.

Its minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein said the new scheme is among the ministry concerned to resolve the problems faced by veterans who are not pensionable.
"But we need to get results and in particular the approval of the highest leadership of the Prime Minister.

"We have already extended this to Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak recently and cheerfulness in the face as he imagined agree with this proposal," he said.

He was speaking on the occasion Appreciation after presenting medals Jasa Malaysia to military retirees here today.

Also present were Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department, Datuk Razali Ibrahim, who is also Member of Parliament for Muar.

At the event, a total of 114 military veterans who served during the communist resistance that ended in 1989 was given the award as a sign of memory for remembering the sacrifices and services of their excellent.

Exco man nabbed over scandal

2017-03-10T10:33:00.003+08:00

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In hot seat: Several cars, one of which is believed to be ferrying Abdul Latif, entering the MACC complex in Johor Baru.

PETALING JAYA: Johor state executive councillor Datuk Abdul Latif Bandi has been arrested over the massive housing and land scandal in Johor.

Abdul Latif was detained at about 11am yesterday at the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) office in Johor Baru where he was summoned again for questioning.

Last week, Abdul Latif was questioned there for four hours.

It is learnt that MACC had been tailing Abdul Latif for days and keeping track of his whereabouts, prior to yesterday’s arrest.

MACC chief commissioner Datuk Dzulkifli Ahmad, who was at that time on a visit to Menara Star here, confirmed the news immediately after the arrest.

The news was uploaded on The Star website within minutes of the arrest.

Shortly after Abdul Latif’s arrest, MACC officers seized an array of items at his home in Johor, including 150 luxury handbags, RM41,000 cash and a luxury vehicle.

The handbags included brands such as Chanel, Prada, Gucci, Salvatore Ferragamo and Louis Vuitton.

Some of the 150 luxury handbags that have been seized from Abdul Latif's house in Johor.

Abdul Latif is expected to be brought to the Johor Baru court today to be remanded.

He would be investigated under Section 17(a) of the MACC Act and Section 4 of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act.

The MACC urged the public not to speculate on the case and to allow anti-graft officers to carry out a thorough probe.

On Feb 24, Abdul Latif’s eldest son Ahmad Fauzan and his special officer Muhammad Idzuan Jamalludin, were detained by the MACC in a swoop.

Abdul Latif was the Johor Housing and Local Government Committee chairman and had opted to go on leave pending an investigation into the case.

Following the arrest of his son and special officer, Abdul Latif had kept mum on the matter.

He had also not been seen in public.

About RM15.5mil in more than 45 accounts was frozen as part of the probe. Also seized were 21 luxury cars, five high-powered motorcycles and stacks of documents.

A lawyer, two developers, a contractor as well as another suspect were also arrested in a series of raids.

All seven suspects, aged between 25 and 50, have been released on bail after their remand expired.

So far, the MACC has called in 15 people to have their statements recorded.

Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin expressed sympathy for Abdul Latif over the arrest.

“We sympathise with him (Abdul Latiff) and leave it to the MACC in the interest of justice,” Mohamed Khaled told reporters outside the state assembly hall in Iskandar Puteri yesterday.

Charges against Dr Vida dropped

2017-03-10T10:29:00.001+08:00

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IPOH: The charges against cosmetics millionaire Datuk Seri Dr Hasmiza Othman – popularly known as Dr Vida – for failing to pay Goods and Services Tax were withdrawn after she settled the full sum, down to the last “10 sen” owed.

After all of her charges were withdrawn yesterday, she said she felt relieved that she did not need to come back to court again.

“Lots of accusations have been hurled against me but I’m free now and I can go overseas.

“This is a test and I am sure I will become stronger after this,” she told reporters outside the court.

The Sessions Court allowed the Customs deputy public prosecutor (DPP) to withdraw all the charges against Hasmiza for failing to pay Good and Services Tax (GST).

The decision was made after she paid the sum owed to the Customs departments worth RM4.2mil yesterday.

Customs deputy public prosecutor Datuk Raja Rozela Raja Toran and Farah Ezlin Yusop Khan prosecuted, while Hasmiza was represented by counsel Syed Ahmad Syed Abas.

“The full payment for the sum sought – RM4,246,029.10 has been paid by my client,” Syed Ahmad said.

“The cheque was issued to the department and we want the DPP to withdraw all the charges against her,” he said at the Sessions Court.

DPP Raja Rozela then confirmed that the amount had been paid to the Customs Department.

Sessions Court judge Murtazadi Amran granted the request and also returned her passport and bail money.

Judge Murtazadi also asked if the Customs gave any discount to her, to which her counsel replied, “We paid the whole amount, including the 10 sen”.

On Oct 13, she faced 32 charges of failing to pay and submit the GST statements from April 1, 2015 to July 31, 2016 and claimed trial to all the charges.

However, on Dec 15 last year, she was fined RM80,000 after she changed her plea and pleaded guilty to 16 charges of failing to submit GST statements totalling RM4.2mil.

She maintained her innocence over her failure to pay GST.

150 designer handbags, cash and luxury MPV seized from Johor exco man's house

2017-03-10T10:22:00.002+08:00

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JOHOR BARU: Within hours of his arrest, graft busters seized 150 designer handbags, cash and a luxury MPV from state Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Datuk Abd Latif Bandi's house here.

The seizure was made in a raid conducted immediately after Abd Latif's arrest at 10.50am Thursday by Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) officers.

The handbags included luxury brands such as Chanel, Prada, Gucci, Salvatore Ferragamo and Louis Vuitton.

The hoard of designer handbags seized from the suspect's house.

Also seized was a Toyota Vellfire and RM41,000 in cash.

Abd Latif is expected to be brought to court Friday to be remanded.

Earlier, he had opted to go on leave from his state exco duties following a massive housing and land scandal in the state.

In a statement, MACC urged all quarters not to speculate on the matter and gave an assurance that its investigations would be conducted in a transparent manner.

Penang's Komtar to have world's tallest mural soon

2017-03-10T10:20:00.002+08:00

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An artist's impression of the world's tallest mural on the iconic Komtar tower.

GEORGE TOWN: Five Malaysian artists are set to make their way into the Guinness Book of Records soon for painting the world's tallest mural on Penang's Komtar tower.

The World's Tallest Mural project, which is sponsored by Only World Group (OWG), will see the artists attempting to paint a colossal homage to the state and its people on the iconic tower.

Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said the state government was proud to support this endeavour, which would definitely put the state on the world map.

"Komtar is indeed a befitting canvas for this historic milestone, not only because it is the tallest building in the state but also because George Town is already world-renowned for its vibrant arts and cultural scene and this mural will definitely enhance the cityscape further in this sense," he told reporters during the announcement of the project at The Top in Komtar.

He said the mural, when completed, would be 230m tall, 13.1m wide, and would cost about RM300,000.

OWG chief executive officer Datuk Seri Richard Koh said they hoped to obtain endorsement from the Guinness Book of World Records for the project.

According to him, the world's tallest mural currently is 70m high, but Komtar's mural would be more than three times its height.

"The project is also in line with our ongoing efforts to revitalise the state's beloved landmark, which began with the opening of The Top@Komtar late last year," he said.

The mural project will start this month and is expected to be completed by October.

The five artists chosen to undertake the project are Bibichun, The Sliz, Kangblabla, Sattama and IMMJN.

Yang di-Pertuan Agong opens first meeting of 13th Parliament's fifth term

2017-03-06T12:23:00.004+08:00

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Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Muhammad V inspects the guard of honour at Parliament

KUALA LUMPUR: A new King officiated the first meeting of the fifth term of the 13th Parliament in the refurbished Parliament building on Monday.

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Muhammad V arrived at Parliament at 10.30am clad in a blue baju Melayu to inspect the guard of honour

He was accompanied by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi as he entered the august House to deliver his royal address.

This session features a motion that is bound to spark feverish discussion; the Private Member’s Bill to amend the Syariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act.

The Bill brought by PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang seeks to further empower Syariah Courts by giving them jurisdiction to mete out harsher punishments for offences, except for those that carry the death penalty.

Abdul Hadi has repeatedly assured lawmakers and the public that the amendments were not a form of hudud but this has done little to ease the fears of non-Muslim MPs.

Barisan Nasional coalition parties and several Opposition parties have objected to the proposed amendments, saying that they contravene the Federal Constitution because the country should not have dual criminal justice systems.

Another motion is the fight to curb sexual crimes against children and the Government is expected to introduce the Child Sexual Crimes Bill, which proposes to make sexual grooming illegal.

There will also be a special session on Tuesday to commemorate Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 which went missing on March 8, 2014.

The meeting of Parliament will end on April 6.

Malaysia honours boxing legend

2017-03-06T12:20:00.003+08:00

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PUTRAJAYA: The late boxing legend Muhammad Ali has been honoured by the Government for his actions and spirit in upholding the principles of Islam.

His daughter Rasheeda Ali (pic) received a certificate of special appreciation on his behalf from Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Jamil Khir Baharom.

It was in conjunction with the “Reviving the Islamic Spirit” programme by the Malaysian Islamic Missionary Foundation at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre on Saturday.

According to Bernama, Jamil Khir said that Muhammad Ali, who died during Ramadan last year, had left behind a major legacy and was an inspiration to the world.

“I still remember when he fought Joe Bugner in Malaysia in 1975. The spectators were mesmerised by the prowess of the two boxers,” he said.

Teacher tailors unique English lesson plan

2017-03-06T12:15:00.003+08:00

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GOMBAK: Fresh from her first Star Newspaper-in-Education (NiE) workshop, English teacher Yusmedarwati Mohd Yusoff designed her own NiE activity that had her students creating their own superheroes.

Now, she looks forward to sharing this English teaching method with her colleagues.

“We will touch on how to use the newspaper effectively in class,” said the teacher from SMI Al-Amin Gombak, Selangor.

Forty-eight secondary school teachers attended the workshop last week, which demonstrated ways to use the newspaper for English lessons.

The workshop, organised by Star Media Group, was held in collaboration with the Selangor State and Kuala Lumpur Federal Territory Education Departments and the Institute of Teacher Education, international languages campus, Kuala Lumpur, to mark Star-NiE’s 20th anniversary.

Yusmedarwati said the upgraded pullout with 21st century skill indicators and activities for different proficiency levels made lesson planning a breeze.

“I’m teaching classes with mixed proficiency levels, so it really helps me plan.

“Moreover, NiE taps into many skills, such as public speaking,” said the teacher whose school subscribes to 430 copies of Star-NiE weekly.

The NiE workshops at Menara Star, Petaling Jaya, will be held for secondary and primary school English teachers until September.

The next workshops will be held on March 7 and 8.

Tengku Permaisuri takes part in 6km run

2017-03-06T11:59:00.004+08:00

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Going the distance: Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin (centre, with cap) with other runners in the 6km VIP fun run in Shah Alam.

SHAH ALAM: Tengku Permaisuri Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin joined in the fun as she graced the Malaysia Women Marathon 2017 at Stadium Malawati.

She took part in the 6km VIP fun run yesterday with the Selangor Mentri Besar’s wife, Datin Seri Shamshida Taharin, state exco member for health Dr Daroyah Alwi and Tourism Selangor general manager Noorul Ashikin Mohd Din.

After completing the run in one hour and 15 minutes, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin flagged off the 5km fun run and children’s run.

Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, who was also present, said the state has been supportive of policies that empower women to take up greater leadership roles.

“The state government’s support for this event reflects our commitment to work with women in developing Selangor.

“As changes have been made and we now have many women leaders in state agencies, we will continue to support the role of women as agents of change in Selangor,” he said.

Malaysia Women Marathon director Karen Loh said the annual event was to mark the Women’s Day celebrations.

“We are honoured to have Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin joining us. It truly lifted everyone’s spirits,” she said.

Anxious python attacked 300 kilograms

2017-03-06T11:49:00.000+08:00

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Batik python is estimated to weigh 300 kilograms and a length of about six meters.

Marang - A businessman facing palm grove seconds worrisome when bumped by python over about six meters while cleaning his garden in the village of Inglewood, here, today.

In the incident at about 11.30 am, the farm operators involved, Awang Jemahat, 40s, also fortunate in times reptile estimated to weigh about 300 kilograms try to pounce he had fled.

Awang said that once the reptile appears to be trying to pounce she spontaneously ran to a safe place while screaming for help and hope to be able to hear the screams of his son.

Upon hearing the screams Awang, his son, who was not far from the scene immediately get it later also continue to inform the Chairman of JKKK Inglewood, Marzuki Mat Zain, 56.

Marzuki before the incident with the two children were clean but the garden respect of cleaning work to be done in a separate area but still within the same palm grove.

Recalling the events continued, Marzuki said, has become routine for them to clean the oil palm plantations in the morning and will be adjacent to each other.

"I was not far from the scene remarkably surprised when informed of the incident by his son happened to Awang. I immediately get Awang who is still in a state of shock and fear.

"After that, I rushed to the scene before it learned of a huge python. I never saw a snake of that size before. Its length is approximately 20 feet ... which is about six meters long, '' he said.

After that, he said, he immediately contacted the residents and the nearby village JKKK management before some villagers rushed to the scene and managed to kill the big snake.

According to him, the decision to kill the reptile was made after taking into consideration all aspects of the safety of the population, including the mysterious disappearance of farm animals, especially cattle population dropped in the oil palm plantations.

"In recent years, the villagers often complained of the loss of livestock, especially cattle and reliable eaten by pythons may be based on the size of the reptile which can swallow a calf.

"We also took the decision because many people here are involved in the cultivation of oil palm and the reptile attacked them at risk if the animal is in a state of hunger," he said.

‘Greenie’ actor Fattah flayed over his book

2017-02-15T09:56:00.000+08:00

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ACTOR Fattah Amin (pic), who has been flayed for being too “green” to write a motivational book, said the critics have not understood the message.

His book of motivational quotes, 99 Kata-Kata #Qalifmoden Fattah Amin, was launched last week.

Harian Metro reported that there had been negative feedback from the social media about the book by Fattah, 27.

Apparently, the critics felt that Fattah had not contributed enough to the entertainment industry to “inspire” others.

In response, Fattah said they were merely reading the book without understanding the message and good intentions behind it.

“All the quotes in the book are relevant to my life, from the time I started out as a nobody.

“I also wanted to inspire others, especially children, to prioritise their dreams and strategies to succeed in life,” he said.

Among the quotes that came under fire was one where Fattah spoke on being able to realise his dream of driving his own car to KLCC and getting valet parking.

Fattah explained that he only meant to show that he used to be an ordinary teenager with big dreams.

It is a blissful Valentine’s Day for 19 couples

2017-02-15T09:51:00.001+08:00

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One for the album: The 19 couples smiling for the cameras as they form a heart shape during the mass wedding registration ceremony held at the Che Hoon Khor Moral Uplifting Society in Penang.

GEORGE TOWN: It is the classic story of a boy who meets a girl, grows up together and then they go on their separate ways to pursue careers.

As fate would have it, they met again and fell in love, with a happy ending.

Such was the love story of businessman Cheng Soo Hun and his sweetheart Nancy Lim, both 31, who grew up as childhood friends in their neighbourhood in Padang Besar, Perlis.

“We met when we were five as our families knew each other.

“Although Soo Hun studied in Alor Setar and only came back to our hometown during the weekends, we kept in touch over the years,” said Lim.

Lim and Cheng were among 19 couples who sealed their union on Valentine’s Day yesterday at a mass wedding registration held at the Che Hoon Khor Moral Uplifting Society here.

Lim then relocated to Johor Baru for seven years after getting a job in Singapore, while Cheng moved there four years back to develop his business.

“We only got together in JB two years ago,” said Lim.

Hawkers Lee Chong Seng, 29, and Thniah Guat Im, 30, wed after over seven years of courtship.

Lee said he met his the love of his life at a restaurant where he worked as a kitchen helper and she, a waitress.

“I still remember the day we started going out; it was on Dec 15, 2009.

“We celebrate this anniversary every year,” he said.

Valentine’s Day is also extra special for businessman Cheah Chun How, 33, and music teacher Jess Chan, 30.

“It was on this day last year that we started dating,” said Chan, who met Cheah at a gathering.

“It was love at first sight,” he recalled.

DSP makes biggest catch of his life

2017-02-15T09:48:00.002+08:00

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Happily ever after: DSP Lai (right) and Mou, who met 10 years ago, exchanged their vows during the Valentine’s Day mass marriage registration ceremony at the Ipoh Chinese Chin Woo Athletic Association Hall, Perak.

IPOH: Police officer Deputy Supt Derek Lai has caught many criminals, but the biggest catch of his life is none other than the person who stole his heart.

“It was love at first sight for me,” the 37-year-old investigating officer with the state Criminal Investigation Department unabashedly confessed.

That was 10 years ago when DSP Lai met his match, Mou Ei Leen, in Kuantan in the course of his work.

But the policeman did not get to woo her until he got her number several weeks after many attempts.

A few months later, they started dating.

On Valentine’s Day yesterday, the duo finally became man and wife at a mass marriage registration ceremony at the Ipoh Chinese Chin Woo Athletic Association Hall here.

Their courtship endured a decade of him being transferred all over the country, from the Bukit Aman police headquarters to Johor Baru before his latest posting to Ipoh about eight months ago.

“Even though we had a long-distance relationship, everything worked out fine.

“After 10 years, we felt it was time to tie the knot and what better and more meaningful day than on Valentine’s Day?” he said.

Businesswoman Mou, 34, said DSP Lai is a gentleman who cares deeply for her.

“I will move to Ipoh after our wedding ceremony,” she said.

The couple, together with 16 other pairs, exchanged their vows before assistant registrar of marriages Datuk Ooi Foh Sing.

For 33-year-old technician Foo Wen Kang and Tan Soo Yin, 30, distance apart was no issue too.

Foo was based in Sungai Siput – their hometown – while Tan was a tuition teacher in Kampar, about 70km away. They dated for two years.

“We are constantly on the phone. Plus, she comes back to Sungai Siput every weekend,” he said

Also getting hitched were Calvin Chong, 21, and Lim Poh Yi, 18, the youngest couple at yesterday’s event.

“We met through a social networking application a year ago.

“I fell in love with her when we met up after weeks of exchanging messages,” said Chong, a cook in Singapore.

Chong said he came from a single-parent family and wanted to get married early.

“I want to have a happy family.

“Our parents are also very supportive,” he said.