Ketum Ban: Should We Or Shouldn’t We?

There have been mixed reports about ketum and its effects. Researchers, cultivators and our grandparents insist that ketum has an array of medicinal value. However, the government is intent on banning the leaf on concerns of abuse and addiction.
So, we decided to dig a little deeper to better understand ketum. This writer also requested to write this piece while being on ketum for a more wholesome report, but our editor wasnâ€™t sporting enough.
So, what is ketum exactly?

Ketum leaves basically look like every other leaf (Picture credit: The Star Online)

Ketum is also known as biak in Malaysia. In Thailand, the leaf is known as krathom. Scientists, however, refer to this interesting plant as Mitragyna Speciosa, the indigenous psychotropic plant of Southeast Asia.
Part of the coffee family, ketum trees can be found growing wildly in the northern states of Peninsular Malaysia and in the central and southern parts of Thailand.
How is it used?

Ketum tree (Picture credit: Mint Press News)

For the past 100 years or so, the leaf has been used this way in Malaysia for social and medicinal purposes.
Ketum leaves can be chewed, smoked, or brewed into a herbal tea.
However, those using the leaf for its medicinal properties advise that it is best consumed as a tea brewed by boiling just a handful of the leaves in water.
Many rural folks in the northern states see ketum use as an intractable aspect of their socio-culture, and it is often consumed in the community during social gatherings.

Ketum leaves brewed as a tea (Picture credit: Tukar Tiub)

Although there hasnâ€™t been any scientific evidence to support claims, villagers in Kedah, Perlis, and Pulau Pinang swear by ketumâ€™s ability to regulate blood sugar levels of diabetic patients and help with malaria, hypertension, and stomach worms.
According to USM researcher Dr Darshan Singh, in the 1930s ketum was also widely used to help control opioid addiction and to suppress withdrawal symptoms experienced by opioid addicts when opium itself was unavailable or unaffordable.

Ketum pills sold in the US (Picture credit: New York Times)

Currently, the United States is the number one importer of ketum for its pain and anxiety relief effects.
How is it abused?

Large batches of ketum leaves need to be boiled to produce a potent tea (Picture credit: Ministry of Health)

Extracts from Mitragyna Speciosa contain the active ingredient mitragynine which feels like a lot like being on morphine and heroin despite having a completely different chemical structure.
Ketum is also not as addictive as morphine and heroin, with reports stating that withdrawal syndrome of ketum only lasts for about 2-3 days compared to morphine and heroin which can last for weeks.
Its effects are said to be â€˜dose-dependentâ€™ and it can act as a stimulant at lower doses while large doses lead to a stupor.
Due to this, heavy consumption of ketum on a daily basis can result in dependency and addiction.
Bags of air ketum for sale confiscated by the police (Picture credit: The Sun Daily)
Those who regularly abuse the leaf tend to make the herbal tea by boiling large numbers of leaves in water to create a concentrated solution of mitragynine and it is mixed with other substances such as alcohol, opiates, methamphetamines and amphetamines to increase its effects.
Interestingly, despite the addictive properties of ketum, scientists have not been able to link its use with any serious health effects other than addiction and withdrawal symptoms that last 2 to 3 days. Of course, more long term research is required to confirm this.
Is it illegal?

An illegal ketum farm (Picture credit: Ministry of Health)

In Malaysia, ketum use is regulated under Section 30(3) of the Poisons Act 1952. It has been listed as a third schedule poison and it is an offence to harvest and sell the plant in Malaysia, though planting a couple of ketum trees in your garden is not.
For several years now, the government has been trying to ban the plant entirely as it is seen as a gateway drug and authorities fear that if the plant is not banned it will encourage abuse in the country.
In the latest report on the matter, the Kedah state government wants to give incentives to ketum growers in the state to switch to other crops.

Confiscated produce from an illegal ketum farm in Thailand (Picture credit: Media Terjah)

In Indonesia and Thailand, ketum has been banned for domestic consumption. But Indonesia still allows its export in unprocessed form and has been cashing in on the crop for years due to the high demand from the U.S
Criminalising the use of ketum would technically go against the Health Ministryâ€™s recent move to decriminalise drug usage and there have been fears among the scientific community that a ban could possibly increase the number of opioid addicts in the country.

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Johor Ruler Commands State Authorities To Investigate Anti-Rohingya Banner

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As public outrage grew over the xenophobic anti-Rohingya banner displayed in front of a surau in Johor, the state’s monarch Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar commanded authorities to conduct a formal investigation into the matter.
The racist banner displaying a message stating that Rohingya migrants were not welcomed to Kampung Pentong Baru, recently surfaced on social media sparking international criticism towards Malaysia’s treatment to foreign nationals.
Reportedly, the banner was also displayed in several mosques, suraus and surrounding areas of the kampung.
With a statement made on Facebook, the Sultan had ordered Johor’s Islamic Religious Council (MAINJ) and the ketua kampung (village headman) of the village to investigate the occurrence and report back to him personally as the matter had brought negative connotations towards religious institutions in Johor.
The Sultan also urged the public to stop spreading rumors and speculation on the matter.

The issue has become a rather sensitive topic in the country as the government had made prohibitions on foreigners from entering and taking part in religious activities at mosques and suraus across the country over fear of the Covid-19 pandemic.
It was noted that the surau committee were not the ones responsible for putting up the banner in the first place and that all banners have been taken down.
The banner being taken down.(Credit: Twitter/@YoursRohingya)

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Source:
Tackle refugee issue according to principles of Islam
Johor Sultan orders probe into anti-Rohingya banner outside surau


Did Ahmad Maslan Say That Malays No Longer Need To Fear DAP?

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Umno secretary-general Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said his official comments are only those posted on his social media page.

In a recent posting on Twitter, the Pontian MP reminded netizens that he would not make any other statements elsewhere.
Jangan macam ni Datuk Seri, saya dah ucap tahniah tadi. Saya nak kena delete tweet tadi ke? pic.twitter.com/EiGZhO0QnI— Amir Amin (@OnlyWanAmir) November 25, 2022
His disclaimer came in the wake of a posting in which he allegedly said that Malays no longer need to fear DAP.
Ahmad was quoted as saying that DAP is no longer anti-Malay nor against Islam, and the negative perception was created by Perikatan Nasional (PN) and PAS.
He was said to have made the statement on 24 November.
The posting had been shared by many including DAP vice chairman and Teluk Intan MP Nga Kor Ming.
However, the posting could not be found on any of Ahmad’s social media pages, which suggests the comment did not come from him.
Datuk Seri, terima kasih atas kenyataan yg membina dan banyak membantu. @ahmadmaslan @umnoonline pic.twitter.com/E68NLQa4wm— Nga Kor Ming (@NgaKorMing) November 25, 2022
From Enemies To Partners
For more than 60 years, Umno and DAP have been at loggerheads.
Hence, the purported comment by Ahmad had come as a shock to many.
This is despite the fact that both parties are now together in Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s unity government.
READ MORE: It’s a PH-BN-GPS Unity Government – Anwar
#JohorBahru Pucuk pimpinan Umno dan Barisan Nasional (BN) berjiwa besar apabila sanggup mengetepikan pendirian 'No Anwar No DAP' demi memenuhi titah Yang di Pertuan Agong demi menyelamatkan negara daripada tergantung tanpa Parlimen. https://t.co/Fk9rjErZQl— Harian Metro (@hmetromy) November 25, 2022

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M’sian-Thai Border Shootout Was Because Of Drug Smugglers

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Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador has confirmed that the shootout happened spontaneously between the two General Operations Force (GOF) officers and a group of smugglers after news broke yesterday of the death of an officer on patrol.

Speaking during a special press conference at Bukit Aman, Abdul Hamid said both parties had stumbled upon each other at about 600 metres from the TS9 control post in Padang Besar, Perlis around 2.30am.
The two GOF personnel were out on an intelligence operation armed with pistols and riding a motorcycle. They arrived at a bush and there was a trail in a rubber plantation area leading to the border wall. They then walked along the trail before they stumbled upon the group carrying sacks containing ketum leaves and cough medicine.Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador, Inspector-General of Police via Malay Mail
The shoot out that followed resulted in Corporal Baharuddin Ramli being shot in the right side of his rib, while Corporal Norihan Tari was shot twice in the stomach, hitting his intestines.
Despite this, Baharuddin managed to tell Norihan to get help from the TS9 control post. Norihan fled the scene on the motorcycle to look for backup. A rescue team arrived 30 minutes later to find Baharuddin dead at the scene, his pistol at his shoulder was out of bullets.
VAT69 commandos were dispatched to the scene together with the rescue team from GOF. They managed to arrest two Thai suspects, one of whom were found near the scene.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador arriving at Taman Radzi PGA Post in Padang Besar, Perlis on 24 November 2020. (Credit: Sayuti Zainudin/Malay Mail)
Norihan is reportedly in stable condition at the Tuanku Fauziah Hospital in Kangar, Perlis, while Baharuddin’s remains, which are at the Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital in Alor Setar, Kedah will be taken to the GOF 3rd Battalion Camp in Bidor, Perak before being laid to rest with full police honours in Kampung Sampo, Bahau, Negri Sembilan.
Abdul Hamid also said appropriate welfare assistance would be provided to the two members of the Senoi Praaq team, adding that the duo had received several certificates of appreciation and outstanding service awards before.
The border drug trail
He also explained that the drug trafficking syndicate involved in this incident is believed to be operating barter-trade style.
Heroin and meth from Thailand are being smuggled into Malaysia, while ketum leaves from Malaysia are moved into Thailand.
Police are tracking down three Malaysians believed to be involved in the syndicate and we have also identified seven trafficking syndicates which are active in the area.Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador, Inspector-General of Police via Malay Mail
In addition to this incident, the police have also recorded two other shootouts near the same control post on 12 and 15 November this year. Abdul Hamid said the police believe these incidents are meant to intimidate enforcement officers in the area.
According to him, the Senoi Praaq team are feared by smugglers at the Malaysia-Thailand border for their reputation of having a high level of integrity and trustworthiness.

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Singaporeans may soon flood M’sia for sugary drinks as their gov combats diabetes

Singaporeans have it rough. They live very high-stress lives, only care about making money, and then their country allows them no pleasure in life.
In addition to gum, vapes, shisha, and durians, the next thing to be banned on the island may be sugary drinks.
The Singaporean Ministry of Health has announced the city-state’s efforts to combat diabetes, which targets drinks with a high sugar content. Two initiatives will be implemented:

A total ban on advertisements of drinks with very high sugar content
Sugary drinks will be required to display a color-coded, front-of-pack nutrition label

All the Singaporean kids will cross the border to gorge themselves on giant bubble teas in Malaysia.(Picture credit: Pixabay)

Additionally, two other proposals are being discussed, including:

An excise duty on all sugary drinks
An outright ban on all high-sugar drinks

The Ministry of Health reached these proposals after a public consultation on how to reduce sugar intake. In Singapore, more than half of their daily sugar intake comes from sweet drinks.
It’s no wonder the Singapore-Johor Causeway is always jam-packed on the weekends with desperate Singaporeans trying to have a good time on our hedonistic peninsula.

The few hours of illicit (for Singaporeans) pleasures is worth the nightmare traffic on the Causeway.(Picture credit: Malay Mail)

Where else will they be able to speed down highways, chew gum, spit on the roads, gorge on durians, and drink their fill of cheap sugary drinks?
Even though Malaysia has a sugar tax of our own, it seems to have had minimal effect on the drinking habits of Malaysians.
Perhaps it’s time our Malaysian government consider stricter regulations on sugary drinks as well.

Malaysia: where teh tarik is not a sin, it’s a lifestyle.(Picture credit: Hungry Go Where)

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[Watch] Dad Cycles With A Child In A Stroller. Is It Irresponsible Parenting?

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Viral videos are popular because they are all short and entertaining. While these snappy videos can sometimes make good PSAs, they can also encourage us to form judgements about someone just as quickly.

Recently, a man ranted about a parent endangering a child on the road. In the viral video he posted, another adult man could be seen cycling down a busy road with an orange stroller trailing behind the bicycle. It’s believed a child is travelling in the orange bicycle stroller with the parent.
“This is a town. It’s not a garden, it’s not a park,” the man could be heard saying.
“Have you no pity for the child? What if a car or a motorcycle accidentally swerved and hit the child?” he continued. “What are we going to do with parents like these?”
Netizens joined in the criticisms and gave their own advice too.
“When you cycle, it’s best to avoid cycling during peak hours. Avoid busy roads, roads without road shoulders, and don’t block the other vehicles on the road. You can have fun but use common sense as well, don’t leave it at home,” a netizen wrote.

Kalau berbasikal, elak waktu peak hour, elak jalan yg sibuk, elak jalan yg tiada bahu jalan, elak halang laluan kenderaan lain nak lalu. Nak beriadah bawalah common sense sekali, jgn tgglkan dirumah.— PasakaBiru (@Rdi_JAPKDBKK) October 19, 2021

“Is that a baby stroller behind the bicycle? Crazy. If it gets caught in a car or lorry tyre, the stroller will be crushed,” another netizen commented.
While their worries held valid points, some have forgotten that what we see may not give a full picture of the story. Without speaking to the family, it’s easy to judge and immediately jump to conclusions.
There are many factors that the public wouldn’t know. For one, we don’t know the family’s financial circumstances at that moment in time. Perhaps it was the only mode of transportation they have or the other vehicles they own are in a workshop.
Maybe the parents couldn’t find anyone to take of their child and the other family members or relatives are unable to care for the child as well. There’s also the possibility that they couldn’t hire a babysitter, whether it’s due to financial constraints or due to a last-minute change of plans.
While it’s easy to point out the mistakes of a parent as a stranger, we must also remember that taking care of children is hard and parents often have to do what they can. It might not be the right decision for us but it could be the only option the parents have at that time.
When it comes to videos like these, it’s good to pause and have some empathy.

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Malaysians Prove They’re Still Kind And Generous With #KitaJagaKita

While Malaysians made headlines during the period of panic before the Movement Control Order (MCO), a new wave of action has risen since.
The #KitaJagaKita movement aims to link kind-hearted people with organizations working to assist groups badly affected by the MCO.
#KitaJagaKita is mainly calling for food items and cash donations. On the website, you can choose which organization to donate to.
A small snippet of the #KitaJagaKita website, link here:  https://www.kitajaga.us/
For example, a group of NGOs will be buying and distributing food supplies for families with a budget of RM100 per family.
The Lost Food Project used to provide 56 charities with food weekly. They used to collect surplus food, but with the cancellation of events due to the MCO, they now require donations to keep the families dependent on those charities fed.
The #KitaJagaKita movement was started by local author Hanna Alkaf and supported by concerned citizens to look after each other in a time of need.
This is a crucial period for many Malaysians, since some soup kitchens have temporarily suspended services, leaving the homeless and the urban poor vulnerable and hungry.
So many of us take our 3 meals a day for granted.(Credit: Facebook/Kechara Soup Kitchen)
The idea is similar to Caremongering, although Caremongering is a hyperlocal personal contribution to a person in need based on geographical location.
#KitaJagaKita aims to reach out to all Malaysians in need through the different charity organizations.
Any help is appreciated, especially in this time of need an uncertainty. Give what you can, whether that may be monetary donations, extra food supplies, or time and effort.
Together, let’s restore our faith in Malaysians!

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How Bank Negara’s Moratorium Affects Your Loans During Covid-19 Pandemic

With the COVID-19 pandemic along with movement control order (MCO) slowing down the economy and affecting incomes across the nation, Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) has announced an automatic 6 month moratorium on all bank loans.
BNM stated that this measure was designed to ease the cash flow of small and medium-sized enterprises and individuals that are likely to be most affected by Covid-19.
Credit: Bank Negara Malaysia
Here’s what you need to know
All bank loans, financing repayments/payments, principal and interest -except for credit card payments- do not need to be made by those affected by the Covid-19 outbreak, beginning 1st April 2020. As the moratorium applies to all financing payments, this includes housing loans, car loans and personal loans
This does not mean that the payments are forgiven, but postponed until September 2020. So loan payments will continue from October 2020 onwards.
While there is no payment deferment for credit card debt, your credit balance can be converted to a term loan/financing tenure of 3 years with an interest rate of maximum 13% a year.
Qualifying criteria
For individuals and SMEs, the deferment automatically applies to loans/financing that meet these criteria:
not in arrears (overdue) exceeding 90 days as at 1 April 2020denominated in Malaysian Ringgit.
This flexibility is offered by all licensed banks, licensed Islamic banks and prescribed development financial institutions (DFIs) regulated by BNM.
Credit: Malaysia Financial Advisory Group/Facebook
Application
Since the loan deferment is automatic, there is no need to make an application.
Banking institutions will notify individuals and SME borrowers/customers with adequate information on their loan/financing deferments under this scheme.
Youâ€™ll be notified through appropriate channels (like SMS) and the information will also be published on the banking institutionsâ€™ websites.
If the loan is automatically deducted from your salary, you can notify your company to stop the salary deduction and contact the bank to inform them as well.
Opting out
To opt out of the automatic deferment package, you should contact your bank.
You should also respond to the notification sent by the bank. Otherwise, the bank automatically will stop the repayment requirement if there is no response.
You can also continue to make timely and full repayment of your loan/financing.

Interest & Penalties
During this period, borrowers with loan/financing that meet the conditions do not need to make any repayment, and no late payment charges or penalties will be imposed.
However, interest/profit will continue to accrue on loan/financing repayments that are deferred and borrowers/customers will need to honour the deferred repayments in the future.

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7 Hotels & Resorts In Selangor For A Relaxing Last-Minute Staycation Before 2020 Ends

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A staycation is a short trip that often doesn’t require much travelling, taken to escape your usual environment to relax and reset the mind and body from our daily stressors.

With this in mind, Tourism Selangor has put together a list of hotels and resorts right here in Selangor that offers a variety of experiences for the community to get away for the weekend – without having to go so far.
1. Cyberview Resort and Spa – Cyberjaya
(Credit: Tourism Selangor)
This resort offers a cozy and serene environment surrounded by palm trees and tropical gardens. The perfect backdrop while you enjoy the many services offered at their Sembunyi Spa, such as massages, health treatments, sauna, jacuzzi and more.
Patrons can also take a nice stroll from the resort to the nearby Taman Tasik Cyberjaya, fill their bellies with Yemen cuisine at Al Muhalla restaurant or shop for knick-knacks at Gen In Mall or DPulze Shopping Centre.
Find more information here.
2. The Saujana Hotel – Shah Alam
(Credit: Tourism Selangor)
The Saujana is a 5-star hotel where patrons can spend the day surrounded by serene lush tropical gardens, beautiful landscapes and lakeside views that offer perfectly Instagrammable content.
Besides a golf course, tennis court, fitness center, and swimming pool on the hotel grounds, patrons can also visit Citta Mall and Evolve Shopping Mall nearby, enjoy awesome group activities at ESCAPE, Petaling Jaya, and delight in a sumptuous dining experience amidst beautiful LED lights and water fountains at Oasis Village.
Find more information here.
3. Royale Chulan Damansara – Petaling Jaya
(Credit: Tourism Selangor)
If you’re looking for a luxurious short trip with the family, Royale Chulan Hotel in Damansara might just be the right place for you.
This popular hotel has top-notch amenities, such as a gym, spa, indoor ice skating rink and “Kiddie’s Land” to keep the little ones occupied.
The hotel also has exciting entertainment spots just close by. A shuttle service can transport staycationers to The Curve shopping mall nearby, where you can also enjoy other attractions such as KidZania, IKEA, Chocolate Museum, hiking at the Kota Damansara Community Forest Reserve, and others.
Find more information here.
4. Amverton Cove Golf & Island Resort – Pulau Carey
(Credit: Agoda)
This attractive 4-star resort is perfect for a short trip with family and friends as it provides enough activities for a fun filled day on the grounds.
You can go through all the activities provided by just spending an entire day
Golfers will definitely enjoy a stay here as the resort is located just adjacent to a golf course. Meanwhile, the rest of the family can take part in a range of other activities offered, including kayaking, flying fox, paintball, “Animal Island” visit, ATV rides, jungle trekking, archery, and more.
There are also nearby tourist attractions such as the Mah Meri Cultural Village and Morib Beach.
Find more information here.
5. Sheraton Hotel – Petaling Jaya
(Credit: Tourism Selangor)
This stunningly golden 5-star hotel is perfect for those looking for luxurious accommodation and facilities.
Suitable for both a family vacation, or work trip, the hotel facilities include a Kids Club, huge meeting rooms, ballrooms, gymnasium, as a range of restaurants serving Japanese or Cantonese cuisine.
There are also several malls close by such as Subang Parade, Sunway Pyramid, and One Utama. Meanwhile, those who prefer the outdoors can visit an array of gold courses nearby or the popular hiking spot, Bukit Gasing.
Find more information here.
6. New World Hotel – Petaling Jaya
(Credit: Tourism Selangor)
This strategically located hotel is close to Saujana Golf and Country Club, as well as the shopping malls Sunway Pyramid, Empire Shopping Centre, and Paradigm Mall.
Meanwhile, the 5-star hotel also provides facilities such as a children’s pool, fitness center, free parking, and a rooftop swimming pool with a panoramic view of the city.
The hotel also has easy access to highways, airports, and an LRT station.
Find more information here.
7. Mövenpick Hotel & Convention Centre KLIA – Sepang
(Credit: Agoda)
This hotel offers guests the perfect combination of comfort and convenience.
Located just next to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), this newly-built upscale hotel is also 10 minutes away from Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and Mitsui Outlet Park.
The hotel has a complete convention centre within its grounds, allowing guests to land, check-in, and connect or relax within minutes.
Their 333 rooms and suites are designed for complete personal comfort with large bathrooms, perfect picture windows, and rich furnishings allowing guests to truly relax in peace.
Find more information here.
Aside from this list, you can check out more hotels and accommodation options for a relaxing year-end retreat on Tourism Selangor’s website (HERE).

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Man Shot Dead Outside Sungai Petani Restaurant, Witnessed By Wife And Young Kid

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A 36-year-old man was gunned down by four men at point-blank range at the Taman Intan traffic junction in Sungai Petani, Kedah, yesterday (25 May) around 12.30pm.

Free Malaysia Today reported that he was approached by the men on two motorcycles when he had just about finished his lunch and was about to enter his Toyota Vellfire that was parked across the restaurant.
Sadly, his wife and young son saw everything that happened next and could only scream from the five-foot way of the restaurant.
READ MORE: Lelaki Di Kedah Ditembak Depan Restoran Lepas Makan Tengahari
The gunmen shot the man repeatedly in the head before fleeing. The gunman was said to be wearing gloves and had something to cover his face.
New Straits Times reported that the man was shot at least eight times in the body and head.
A forensic team found eight bullet casings at the site. The police later identified the deceased as Murali Shunmugam, whose last known address was in Bukit Selambau, Kedah.
Kedah police chief Wan Hassan Wan Ahmad said Murali was a wanted man by the police over suspected organised crime and drug-related activities, with a pending case under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012.
The case will be investigated as murder under Section 302 of the Penal Code.

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UCSI Survey Finds Majority Of Malaysian Youths In Debt But Aware Of Loans Taken

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Despite having a large number of Malaysian youths in debt, a survey has shown that our youths are aware of the loans they take as well as the consequences that may follow if it is not paid.
According to a recent survey by the local university UCSI, 73% of 1,077 Malaysians between the ages of 18 and 40 are in debt and lack the funds to meet their financial obligations.
Young people often take out loans for a variety of reasons, according to a survey by the poll research centre at UCSI University, including financial difficulties, inflation, and adopting opulent lifestyles.
Source: iStockPhotos
Hassanudin Mohd Thas Thaker, director of research and postgraduate studies in the Faculty of Business and Management at UCSI University, stated in a statement that these young Malaysians were also aware of the consequences of defaulting on their loans — proving that Malaysian youths do not apply for loans blindly.
“A total of 73 percent of youths understand the consequences that follow if they fail to pay their loans,” he said.
On the bright side, although the number of young people who are borrowers is concerning, 83 percent of them could pay back their loans on time.
Additionally, the UCSI poll also found 58 percent of Malaysian youths saying their financial status has been hurt post Covid-19.
The 58 percent who were affected by the pandemic may be due to unemployment, unstable income and the increase in commitments as the pandemic has affected a lot of companies and individuals in Malaysia, according to Hassanuddin.
UCSI also reported that their poll identifies rising living expenses and inadequate savings (27 percent) as the top two contributors, followed by changes in lifestyle, as the main causes of the youngsters’ financial difficulties.
Hassanuddin also noted that for students to enrol in online programmes, he said, “this needs each student to have their own laptop and home Wi-Fi facility, which indirectly affects their daily financial well-being.”
Finally, Hassanuddin pointed out inflation due to the country’s current financial crisis as another reason for the increase in the number of borrowers among the country’s youth.
According to him, there is constantly a discrepancy between supply and demand, which creates a persistent issue.
Among other reasons for taking out loans include 30 percent for vehicles, 28 percent for education, and 16 percent to buy houses.

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All Videos Gone From Sugu Pavithra YouTube Channel

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All videos on the phenomenally popular Malaysian YouTube cooking channel Sugu Pavithra appear to have been mysteriously deleted.

The channel used to feature local recipes and cooking guides by husband and wife couple M. Sugu and S. Pavithra in Bahasa Malaysia.
Within the span of a few months, the couple garnered over 785,000 subscribers, a silver YouTube Button, and even drew the attention of Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin who met them in person and presented them with some supplies.
However, this latest development follows the recent arrest of Sugu who was charged on July 24 with possession of a dangerous 26-inch sickle in public under Section 6(1) of the Corrosive, Explosive, and Dangerous Weapons Act 1958.
Credit: Farhan Najib/Malay Mail
He allegedly had the weapon at the parking lot of Hospital Permaisuri Bainun on July 21 at around 6pm, though it was said to have been in his car, and not on his person.
If convicted, he could face not less than five years and not more than 10 years of imprisonment, and whipping. His of RM10,000 was paid by his wife.
Sugu had allegedly attacked his wife S. Pavithra at a hospital parking lot. Apparently, the couple had been quarreling since Monday and Sugu hit Pavithra while under the influence of alcohol.
Later on, a nurse then called the hospital guard reporting of a drunk man brandishing a grass sickle about to enter the hospital. Sugu was then arrested by the police over domestic abuse allegations.
However, Pavithra withdrew her report and said that the issue was a private matter between husband and wife.

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BN To Form The Next Johor Government With Two-Thirds Majority

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Perikatan Nasional (PN) and Pakatan Harapan (PH) had once again failed to stop the resurgence of Umno-Barisan Nasional (BN).

BN won the Johor election with a two-thirds majority, taking 40 of the 56 seats in the state assembly.
BN’s Datuk Hasni Mohamad is set to be the new Johor Menteri Besar after winning the Benut seat.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob had also declared victory for Barisan Nasional (BN) in the Johor elections.
BN component parties – MCA and MIC – also did well after being wiped out in GE14.
Both parties won four seats each.
MCA’s candidate Ling Tian Soon took the seat in Yong Peng. (Source: Twitter)
Tahniah Barisan Nasional di atas kemenangan dalam #PRNJohor.Terima kasih kepada semua pengundi-pengundi, kepimpinan, jentera dan petugas-petugas yang bekerja keras dalam memastikan kemenangan Barisan Nasional. Masa untuk Kestabilan Masa Depan rakyat Johor! 🇲🇾 pic.twitter.com/CJUAJfN0J8— Ismail Sabri (@IsmailSabri60) March 12, 2022
The election result may have sounded the death knell for the fledgling PN led by former prime minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.
PN’s weakness was most glaring as it fielded candidates in all 56 DUNs but won only 3.
The Bersatu president would be dreadfully embarrassed as BN even snatched his former seat of Gambir.
PN’s member parties Gerakan lost in all eight seats contested, while PAS also failed to deliver.
The Islamist party was only able to win one seat in Maharani, out of 15 DUNs contested.
A worker moving a billboard of Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin in Johor. (Source: Facebook)
PH won 12 seats but its state leader Aminolhuda Hassan lost in Parit Yaani.
Another notable casualty was former education minister Dr Maszlee Malek. The PKR candidate lost in Layang-Layang.
The only glimmer of hope among PH was DAP, which delivered most of the 10 seats.
PH heavyweight Liew Chin Tong won the Perling seat. (Source: Malay Mail)
The result will no doubt raise questions once more on Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim being the leader of PH and the Opposition.
Other parties – Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s Pejuang and Sabah outfit Warisan also crash-landed with zero seats.
Pejuang could not win even one of the 42 seats it had contested, signalling that Dr Mahathir may have lost his influence among voters, especially the Malays.
On the bright side, MUDA still managed to gain its first-ever seat as Amira Aisya Abd Aziz won in Puteri Wangsa.
Muda volunteers taking a selfie with Amanah president Mohammad Sabu in Parit Raja, Johor. (Credit: Fernando Fong)
Johor, which is one of the economic powerhouses in the country, has seen three different Menteri Besar since the defeat in the 2018 general election to Pakatan Harapan (PH)
The loss ended BN’s control over the state for the first time in six decades, and now they are back in full swing.

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The British ‘Hornets’ Who Dropped Bombs On Malaysia In The 40s & 50s

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“Sarang Tebuan Jangan Dijolok,” was the official motto used by the No.100 Squadron of the British Royal Air Force (RAF) as they were buzzing over the skies of old Malaya and Singapore from the 1930s till the 1950s.

Translated it means “never stir up a hornet’s nest”, the Malay proverb was engraved onto the 100 Squadron’s official crest as they flew bombing and reconnaissance missions across Southeast Asia during the Second World War (WW2).
Officially formed during the height of WW1 in 1917, the 100 Squadron was established as a night bombing unit that flew over the Western Front of Europe. The squad also later took part in the Irish War of Independence in 1920 and provided close air support to soldiers on the front lines.
In 1933 the 100 Squadron was re-designated as a torpedo-bombing unit – assigned to take out enemy ships and submarines – before being deployed to Singapore in 1934 and tasked with defending the region from attacks.
A number of the squadron’s forces were also parked in Alor Setar, Kedah and were put on high alert against any incoming German naval forces as well as the Imperial Japanese Army.
(Credit: Australian War Memorial via Wikipedia)
100 Squadron saw its first WW2 action in 1941 when a flight crew was tasked to take air reconnaissance photographs of Japanese warships heading our way from off the coast of Vietnam. During the mission, the crew came under heavy attack and narrowly made it back to Alor Setar with Japanese planes still hot on their tail.
When Japanese troops began moving across the Peninsular after landing in Thailand and parts of northern Malaya, it became clear that the 100 Squadron and its fleet of ageing aircraft were outmatched by newer and more nimble Japanese planes.
Despite this, the squadron continued to participate in bombing missions in Kedah and Kuantan, Pahang in order to halt the Japanese advance.
As Malaya fell into Japanese hands and with the Imperial Army continuing its march to capture Singapore, the 100 Squadron was forced to retreat to Java, Indonesia, in 1942 after suffering heavy losses and nearly having its entire fleet of planes destroyed
(Credit: Imperial War Museums via Wikipedia)
By February that year and as more and more territory fell into Japanese occupation, the 100 Squadron RAF was retasked to Australia and reformed into the 100 Squadron Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).
The new RAAF squad, however, kept its legacy skull and bones badge and their Malay motto despite the emblem not officially recognised in that country.
(Credit: lawabidingciti1/Twitter)
Return to Malaya
From 1950 to 1951 a reformed version of the 100 Squadron RAF returned to our skies during the Malayan Emergency against Communist insurgents.
During that time, the 100 Squadron was tasked with flushing out enemy forces who were raiding local plantations, roads and railways, its pilots flying overhead to drop bombs or spot enemy positions for friendly forces on the ground.
(Credit: Australian War Memorial/ IWM via Wikipedia)
The squadron also took part in escort missions and provided air support for trains travelling between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur and protected them from insurgent attacks.
It’s noted that the hot, humid and stormy weather we have here in the country made missions extremely dangerous. Despite the hazards, airmen in the 100 Squadron continued fighting and even buzzed over populated areas (mostly British managed plantations) en-route to their destinations – flying low to boost public morale.
In their six months of operation in Malaya, the squadron took part in a total of 376 missions, dropped over 2,000 tons of bombs and fired some 67,000 rounds of ammunition against the enemy.
Not the first
Preceding 100 Squadron’s deployment in Malaya were the brave pilots from the No. 205 Squadron, which was credited as the first of the RAF forces to be permanently stationed in Singapore in 1929.
Immortalizing the honour, the squadron also had a Malay motto that reads “Pertama Di Malaya” or the “first in Malaya”.
In fact, there were nine RAF squadrons that were known to have inscribed the Malay language onto their badges over the course of their operations here in the region.
(Credit: Twitter via Lobak Merah)
Leaving a permanent mark on history, the wreckage of RAF planes that were shot down during periods of conflict still remain scattered across our country today.
One such monument is the long lost crash site of a WW2 Liberator bomber aircraft located in Negeri Sembilan which had only been recently discovered in 2006.
(Credit: syam_azhar_/Instagram/Kem Cahaya Gemilang Cherating/Facebook via Says)
It’s estimated that there are some 500 wreckages of WW2 planes belonging to the British, Australian and American militaries that can be found throughout Malaysia.

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Source:
Lincoln Era 1945-54
History 100 Squadron RAF
WW1 – Squadron Formation
WW1 – Western Front
WW2 – ‘Q Flight’ 1941/42
WW2 – Singapore 1939-42
100 Squadron RAF UK | Guna Motto Bahasa Melayu | Tentera Udara United Kingdom
No 100 Squadron
No. 100 Squadron RAF - history, unit codes and losses
100 SQUADRON
No. 100 Squadron RAF
https://www.thepatriots.asia/bahasa-melayu-dalam-crest-royal-air-force/
Remains of eight RAF crew who died in World War II and were rediscovered three years ago given military funeral in Malaysia
People Are Hiking Up This Gunung In Negeri Sembilan To See A WWII Plane Wreckage Up Close
How Malaysia’s top amateur military historian found his wings
Lebih 500 pesawat Perang Dunia Kedua dipercayai terhempas di Malaysia


“Meat Cartel” Selling Repackaged Fake-Halal Frozen Meats Busted In Johor

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Authorities managed to crack down on a “meat cartel” that was smuggling uncertified frozen meats from Argentina, Brazil, Ukraine and China and repackaging it with fake halal labels before selling the products across the country.

Sinar Harian reports that the syndicate – operating out of a warehouse in Senai, Johor – allegedly disguise themselves as legitimate frozen meat suppliers to cheat local wholesalers into thinking that their products were obtained from authorized sources.
A raid of the location seized 1,500 tonnes of frozen meats estimated to value at RM30 million. The products were said to have been smuggled through Johor’s main seaports and the warehouse was used as a base to repackage the items with custom-made fake halal labels.
(maqismalaysia/Facebook)
Authorities say that the cartel has been active for years. To avoid detection, they allegedly falsified import documents, permits and halal certificates besides also importing in products from legitimate sources and mixing it in with their stock.
The case is still under investigation and work is being done to determine where the fake halal meats were being distributed.
Infected meats?
Aside from the whole “halal” issue, there have been other fears linked to frozen meats.
Recently, Chinese authorities reported that they had found traces of Covid-19 on frozen food and food packaging imported from Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina and New Zealand.
But health experts say the chances of contracting coronavirus from food and its packaging are low and that there was no evidence of “food-borne” Covid-19 transmissions.
(Natalie Ng/Unsplash)
Malaysia’s Health Director-General Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said that there had been no reports of local Covid-19 transmissions from imported frozen meats.
The World Health Organization (WHO) gives assurances that our food and groceries are safe from coronavirus and tells people not to worry about food processing and logistics services being contaminated.
However, people are advised to always maintain Covid-19 hygiene and physical distancing guidelines when buying food and supplies.

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Source:
Kartel tukar daging haram jadi halal Artikel Penuh : https://www.sinarharian.com.my/article/112898/LAPORAN-KHAS/Kartel-tukar-daging-haram-jadi-halal © 2018 Hakcipta Terpelihara Kumpulan Karangkraf
China finds coronavirus on frozen meat, packaging from Latin America, New Zealand
WHO belum keluar laporan coronavirus dalam daging haiwan
COVID-19 and food safety: guidance for food businesses
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Food safety and nutrition


Study: Artificial lights at night make you fat

Unexplained weight gain is frustrating, especially for those who continue to eat well and watch our weight. Well, we now have a possible answer and it’s been hiding in your bedroom all this while.
Weight gain creeps up on you wherever you are.Picture credit: mcrguy18
A recent study conducted by researchers has concluded that exposure to artificial light at night while sleeping may increase risks of weight gain or obesity in women.
The researchers were careful in controlling other factors that may influence the results of the study such as age, relationship status, race, socioeconomic status, physical activity, or average calories consumed.
Even with the controlled variables, the results show that women who often sleep with the lights or TV on were 17% more likely to have gained 5kg or more.

via GIPHY
Co-author Chandra Jackson explains that humans are genetically adapted to the natural cycle of sunlight during the day and darkness during the night.
The unnatural exposure to artificial lighting can throw off our circadian rhythm by unintentionally suppressing the production of melatonin, our sleep hormone.
Having our hormones messed up often causes a chain reaction that alters  other biological processes, resulting in increased risk of health conditions such as obesity.

via GIPHY
This is also why we are always advised to not use our mobile phones in bed for at least an hour before we sleep, for a better rest.
So make sure you turn off all the artificial lights in your bedroom before you sleep! Saves electricity at the same time too!


Official MCO 2.0 SOP As Of 13 January (In English)

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Areas Involved
PenangSelangorFederal Territories (Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Labuan)MelakaJohorSabah
Duration
Effective 13 January (from 12.01 am) until 26 January (11.59 pm)

Notes
Fixed Instructions
Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases (Measures within Infected Local Areas) (Movement Control) Regulations 2021Subject to the ruling issued by the National Security Council (NSC) and the Ministry of Health (MOH)Instruction and rules under the local authorityOther instructions issued from time to time by the Health Director-General
Activities NOT ALLOWED
Inter-district travel within Movement Control Order (MCO) areas and inter-state travel without permission from the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM)Movement into and out of MCO areas without permission from PDRM
Activities ALLOWED
Essential services and its chain of activitiesBuying and acquiring essential items and servicesObtaining health and medical treatmentConducting official government and judicial duties
Movement Control
PDRM is responsible for exercising control over local infected areas with assistance from the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), Civil Defence Force (CDF), and the People’s Volunteer Corps (RELA)Entry and exit routes of MCO areas are closed and controlled by PDRMResidents in the MCO area are NOT ALLOWED to leave their respective homes/residences WITH THE FOLLOWING EXCEPTIONS:
ONLY TWO (2) people per household are ALLOWED to go out to acquire essential supplies such as food, medicine, dietary supplements and other basic necessitiesThey may only travel within a 10 km radius of their residence, or to the nearest place if the items are not available within 10 km radiusA maximum of THREE (3) people including the patient are ALLOWED to go out to obtain healthcare or medical servicesThey may only travel within a 10 km radius of their residence, or to the nearest place if the items / service is not available within 10 km radiusStudents and candidates sitting for the following exams are ALLOWED cross MCO, CMCO, or RMCO areas for the purpose of preparing and sitting for their examinations according to the academic calendar prescribed by the Ministry of Education (MOE) with an authorisation letter issued by MOE. ONE (1) guardian is ALLOWED to accompany the student / candidate:Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) Examination for the year 2020 and 2021Sijil Tinggi Pelajaran Malaysia (STPM) Sijil Vokasional Malaysia (SVM) Sijil Tinggi Agama Malaysia (STAM)Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia (SKM)Diploma Vokasional Malaysia (DVM)Assessment for the admission to Special Schools (Sekolah Khusus) for Form 1 and Form 4 studentsEquivalent international examinationsMatriculation colleges are ALLOWED to operate during the MCO period. Students in boarding schools / universities / institutions are ALLOWED to be at their boarding schools / universities / institutions and continue hybrid learningInternational examinations and professional bodies, as well as, research activities that require laboratory facilities at Institutions of Higher Learning (IPTs) are ALLOWED, in compliance with SOPs of the relevant IPT and movement requires an authorisation letter from the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) or the relevant IPTMovement of lecturers / teachers / instructors involved in providing lessons for the preparation or to conduct an examination is ALLOWED with an authorisation letter from MOE or MOHEMovement for the admission of students to their dormitories for the attendance of examination classes set by the MOE and MOHE are ALLOWED with an authorisation letter from MOE and MOHEStudents who need to return to campus must acquire an authorisation letter from their IPT for inter-state or inter-district travelMovement in / out of MCO areas for emergency cases such as deaths is ALLOWED after obtaining permission from PDRMMovement in / out of MCO areas for emergency cases such as natural disasters is ALLOWEDMovement for the purpose of disaster relief / humanitarian aid by NGOs require PDRM permission and the assistance will be channelled through the Disaster Control Operations Center (PKOB) under NADMAMovement control in /  out of Sabah during MCO period is subject to the Sabah State MCO SOP.PCA and RGL between Malaysia and Singapore continues based on the existing agreement.
Activities Within MCO Areas
All activities other than those listed in the Essential Services List are NOT ALLOWEDRestaurants, shops / food stalls, food trucks, roadside hawkers, circulating hawkers, food courts / hawker centers, roadside stalls / kiosks, grocery stores and convenience stores are ALLOWED to operate from 6 am to 8 pmFood supply or sales are ONLY ALLOWED via take-away, drive-through, or delivery from 6 am to 8 pmHospitals, clinics, and medical laboratories are ALLOWED to operate for 24 hours or according to their operating licensePharmacies are ALLOWED to operate from 6 am to 8 pmConvenience stores / sundry shops are ALLOWED to operate from 6 am to 8 pmPetrol stations are ALLOWED to operate from 6 am until 10 pm. Exception: Highway petrol stations can operate for 24 hoursDay and farmers markets are ALLOWED to operate from 7 am to 2 pmWholesale markets are ALLOWED to operate from 12 am to 6 am and 11 am to 4 pmPet stores and Veterinary clinics are ALLOWED to operate from 6 am to 8 pmLaundry services, except for laundromats (self-service laundry) are ALLOWED to operate from 6 am to 8 pm
Permission To Operate And Travel For Essential Services
All sectors mentioned in the list of essential services registered with the relevant Ministry / Agency are ALLOWED to operate during the MCO period. Employee movement is subject to registration / operating authorisation letter and employer pass / employer authorisation letterMovement of government employees for official government duties must be accompanied by an employer authorisation letter Staff attendance capacity for essential services must be limited to only staff members who need to be physically present at the workplace to perform their duties. Other types of employees should be able to work from home. (Employers are responsible for categorising their staff to reduce the number of people in the workplace to only those which are necessary)
Activities At Mosques, Surau And Places Of Worship
A total of 5 people are ALLOWED at places of worship for the purpose of managementFriday prayers at places of worship in the Federal Territories (KL, Putrajaya, and Labuan) are ALLOWED with a maximum of 30 peopleWhile in Selangor and Penang, this is subject to the State Government and State Islamic Religious Authority
Relaxed Rules For Recreational Activities
Jogging is ALLOWED in groups of not exceeding 2 people and within the neighbourhood areaCycling in groups is NOT ALLOWED. Only cycling by oneself not more than 10 km from the place of residence is ALLOWED
Childcare Centers, Tabika, Tadika, And Taska
Childcare centers, taska, tabika, and tadika are ALLOWED to operate with the approval of relevant Ministry / AgencyParents and guardians sending their children to childcare centers in vehicles are allowed to transport the number of child passengers according to the vehicle’s capacity
List Of Essential Services
(Only 30% of management staff are allowed to be present at the workplace. Meanwhile, the total number of employees present can be set by the employer as long as physical distancing and public health protocols can be implemented at the workplace).
Manufacturing
Aerospace equipment including MROFood, beverages, and their chains of economic activitiesGoods for packaging and printing for food and medical industriesHousehold products, personal care items (FMCG – soap, personal cleansers, etc) and cleaning materials and its chain of economic activitiesHealthcare and medical care products, including dietary supplementsPersonal protective equipment (PPE) and fire safety equipmentComponents for medical devicesElectrical and electronics goodsOil and GasPetrochemical productsChemical productsMachines and equipmentCeramics (moulds for the production of hand gloves)Iron and steelTextiles (involving the production of PPE only)Furniture Production, distillation, storage, supply, and distribution of fuel and lubricants
Construction
Construction:
Critical maintenance and repair workMajor public infrastructure construction worksBuilding construction works that provide complete workers accommodations on construction sites or Centralised Labour Quarters (CLQ)
Services
Automotive (improvement and services only)Financial services and its chain of economic activities
Financial institutions (banking, insurance, takaful, bursa, and other institutions licensed, approved, or registered with Bank Negara Malaysia)Capital market entities licensed, registered or regulated by Securities Commission Malaysia
Municipal council and local government services
Pawnbroker / community credit facilities (licensed moneylender companies)Solid waste / sewerage managementPublic cleansing; andCleaning and sanitation of premises
Telecommunications and digital infrastructures including ICT services and global business services (GBS)E-Commerce and its economic activity chain, including e-marketplace, digital payment and local e-commerce internet center servicesHotel and lodgingAgricultural, fishery and husbandry (penternakan), including veterinary services:
Farm management / swiftlet bird nest / horse farm / animal processing plant / slaughterhouse / livestock / livestock food factory / suppliers such as vaccines / livestock management / pet shop management (livestock transfer operations are during nighttime)Control of diseases and regulation of livestock production, regulation of livestock input and livestock industry related products (including exports and import)Animal health management, disease diagnosis, and medical care
Utilities (water and energy)Professional (including accountants / lawyers / auditors / engineers / architects), scientific (including R&D) and technical (including maintenance) servicesSecurity control servicesSecurity and DefenseLand, water, and air transportPort, dock, and airport services and undertakings, including stevedoring and transferring of cargo, pilotage, storing or bulking commodity
Supply and Distribution
Warehousing and LogisticsSale / Delivery of food and beverages; andRetail / Distribution / Wholesale
Farming and Commodity
Agriculture, fisheries, and husbandry (penternakan) and its chain of economic activity; andPlantations and commodities and its chain of economic activity
Others
Any service, work, industry, and business as determined by the Health Minister after consulting with the authorities that regulate said activities
List Of Activities NOT ALLOWED (Negative List)
Economic Activities
Operation of night markets and late-night bazaarsOperation of clothing stores, laundromats (self-service laundry), eyewear stores, barbershops, salons, spas and reflexologyTuition classes, music classes, dance classes, arts, recitation class (kelas mengaji), language classes and the like
Entertainment Activities
Activities in night clubs or pubsActivities in theme parks, indoor playgrounds, family karaoke places, and cinemasActivities such as concerts or live performances
Meetings
Face-to-face meetings among government and private agencies involving the presence of representatives from external agencies that can be done via video conferencing
Seminars / Workshops / Conferences / Exhibitions
All seminars / workshops / courses / trainings / conferences / talks / exhibitions and activities involving Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE).
Organised Gatherings
Official and informal ceremonies of government and private agencies, social gatherings such as feasts, weddings and engagements, receptions, aqiqah ceremonies, doa selamat, tahlil, annual dinners, birthday celebrations, reunions, retreats, and other social eventsParticipation of government and private officials from MCO, CMCO, and RMCO areas in official and informal ceremonies outside these areas
Sports And Recreational Activities
All sport and recreational activities except those mentioned under the Relaxed Rules For Recreational Activities section (such as jogging and cycling)Organised championships and tournamentsSport and recreational activities that involve large-scale participation and make controlling physical distancing difficultSporting events and competitions that involve participants from overseas
Tourism Activities
Tourism activities that involve entering / exiting MCO areas and in EMCO areasOverseas tourism activities by locals, and domestic tourism activities involving foreign tourists entering Malaysia, except foreign tourists from countries stated by the Minister.
Other Activities NOT ALLOWED
Any activity that can result in a crowd gathering in one place that causes difficulty in maintaining physical distancing and compliance with instructions from the Health Director-GeneralOther matters decided by the government from time to time
For more information, you can take a look at the official SOPs on NSC’s website, or check out the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases (Measures within Infected Local Areas) (Movement Control) Regulations 2021.

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19YO Klang Teen Arrested For Murdering His Girlfriend Over Breaking Up

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A 24-year-old local woman was found dead, believed to have been smothered using a pillow by her boyfriend last Wednesday at a house in Kg Pandan, Klang.

According to South Klang district police chief Cha Hoong Fong, the incident was believed to have been triggered after the victim decided to end her relationship with her 19-year-old boyfriend.
Bernama reported that the police were alerted of the incident at about 9.12pm on Wednesday by a local woman who learn of the incident after the suspect had contacted her and asked to be pick-up from the scene.
“The complaints counter of the Klang police station received a report by a local woman who said she received a video call at 7.18pm asking for help, to pick up a man in Kg Pandan, Klang,
“It was because the suspect used a pillow to smother a woman’s face until she had lost consciousness,” Cha was quoted as saying.
He added that the body was found by a team of policemen dispatched to the scene.
“Police arrived at the location of the incident, which is a lot-type house in Kg Pandan, Klang. The victim was found lying on a bed inside a room of the house, and an examination on the body did not show any signs of injury,” he said.
He said that an ambulance with paramedics arrived at the scene later and confirmed the victim had died.
“The Selangor contingent police headquarters’ forensic unit of the Criminal Investigation Department conducted an investigation at the scene and found several items that could serve as evidence in the investigation,” he said.
Cha also said that the suspect, who had no prior criminal record, was arrested nearby the scene of the incident after he attempted to flee.
He is now under remand for seven days until 31 August.
The case is being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder.

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MOE: Year End School Holidays Cut To Two Weeks For 2020

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The Education Ministry (MOE) announced that the year end school holidays have been reduced to two weeks due to interruption of the schooling session caused by the pandemic.
In a statement, MOE explains that the decision was made to help schools plan the teaching and learning session for students and teachers.
With the adjustment, the year end school holidays for Group A is reduced from 42 days to 14 days, while Group B’s holidays are reduced from 41 days to 13 days.
The new year end school holiday dates are as follows:
Group A – 18 – 31 December 2020Group B – 19 – 31 December 2020
Aside from that, the mid-year semester break for the second half of the schooling year has also been reduced to 9 days and 5 days for Group A and B respectively.
Group A comprises states that observe weekends on Friday and Saturday, while Group B are states that observe Saturday and Sunday as weekends.
View the full schooling calendar at MOE’s website (HERE).

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PDRM: Only These 36 Fireworks Are Allowed For Raya Celebrations

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For this Hari Raya Aidilfitri, the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) has allowed 36 types of fireworks for sale, provided that traders must comply with all rules set by PDRM.

Berita Harian quoted Bukit Aman Deputy Director of Management (Administration), Datuk Mat Kasim Karim who said that said policy approval had been given by the Home Ministry (KDN) to import, store and trade fireworks for general sale in conjunction with the festive season in the country.
However, he said, the ban on playing firecrackers and fireworks decided by the government in 1995 is still in effect until now and these items are still subject to the Explosives Act 1957 (Act 207).
If there is a violation of the conditions, action can be taken in accordance with Section 8 of Act 207 and can be jailed for 7 years or a fine of RM10,000 or both.
What you can and cannot buy
Based on reports from Bernama, some of the fireworks allowed to be sold during the festive season includes:
Pop-PopHappy Boom Dush 20Happy Boom Glow of SunsetHappy Boom Flower Silver Cracking RainHappy Boom Thunder Clap (Rockets)
Mat Kassim said the Home Ministry had approved these types of fireworks for import, store and trading in the country.
However, there are nine types of ‘Happy Boom’ fireworks which are NOT allowed, including:
Happy Boom Red CrackerHappy Boom Assorted Celebration Cake RepeatHappy Boom Shoot Cake Happy Boom Tikus 50
Credit: Lazada
Traders will need to be certified to sell
The police said that the sales period for these fireworks are limited to only 30 days – 15 days before and 15 days after the festive season.
Sales outside supermarket buildings such as wholesellers, hypermarkets or shopping malls are allowed provided they have a safe storage area and are certified by the PDRM Armament Division.

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GE15: 18 November Is Now A Public Holiday In Penang, Selangor, N9

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Penang has also declared a state holiday on 18 November, a day before our 15th general election on 19 November.

As reported by FMT, this day off would give voters “time and convenience” to make preparations ahead of polling day, said Penang’s Chief Minister, Chow Kon Yeow.
Penang is the third state to declare 18 November as a state holiday after Negeri Sembilan and Selangor, yesterday.
All three states that designated the day before GE15 as a public holiday are PH-held states.
Other states and the Federal Government have yet to do so.
READ MORE: Public Holiday For Selangor On 18 November
READ MORE: GE15: Negeri Sembilan Declares 18 November Public Holiday After Selangor

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Veveonah’s Older Brother Challenges Malaysian Leaders To Experience Hardships In Rural Sabah

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With Veveonah Mosibin choosing to shy away from social media following the controversy surrounding her viral YouTube video exposing the lack of internet connectivity in Sabah, her supposed elder brother steps forward and invites the country’s leaders to personally witness the struggles faced by people living in rural areas.

In a posting made on Facebook, Mekvin Mosibin, who is a YouTuber in his own right, came to defend his sister against accusations made by Communications and Multimedia Deputy Minister Datuk Zahidi Zainul Abidin and Kudat Member of Parliament (MP) Datuk Abdul Rahim Bakri, who made claims that the video depicting Veveonah having to camp out on top a tree in order to take her exams had all been a ruse.
Veveonah in her YouTube video.(Veveonah M/YouTube)
Mekvin writes that his sister’s video was made with the intention of sharing a glimpse into the lives and hardships of people living in rural communities, without wanting any sympathy from others.
Voicing his disappointments, Mekvin explains that many of the people who live in these communities struggle to afford internet services, and the ones who do are still troubled with slow connectivity issues.
Mekvin also claims that there are plenty of other issues involving the lack of electricity services, clean water supply as well as the absence of proper access roads in these communities.
Mekvin issued a challenge to the country’s politicians to come down to the ground and experience life as a rakyat in these secluded areas of Malaysia.
Come down to the field when it rains YB and experience the entrance to Rosob or Kampung Bilangau Kecil, Kampung Bilangau Besar, and Kampung Dandun. Don’t use a car, use a motor kapcai. Kampung folks only use moto kapcai, they can’t afford expensive bikes or cars.Mekvin Mosibin via Facebook
You can read Mekvin’s entire confession, below;

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Source:
Veveonah Quits Social Media After False Accusations From Minister
Kudat MP’s Refusal To Admit Wrong Is A Bigger Issue Than Veveonah


Concrete Slab, Crane Falls Onto Traffic Leaving 2 Dead In Another SUKE Highway Construction Accident

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At around 8.30am today, residents of Puncak Banyan Apartments in Taman Connaught, Cheras, were disturbed by an extremely loud crash.

Construction of the Sungai Besi-Ulu Klang Elevated Expressway (SUKE) Highway on the road right next to the apartments and behind UCSI University has yielded yet another terrifying accident, this time ending in tragedy.
A large portion of concrete had collapsed, taking a construction crane with it.
Left: the concrete block that fell, and right: the metal crane that fell.(Credit: Facebook)
A large metal rod had fallen directly onto one of the commuting cars below, folding it in half. Two commuters in the car are believed to be trapped with injuries. Two construction workers in the crane are believed to be dead.
Left: the car crushed after a metal rod fell on it, right: two construction workers operating the crane were involved in the accident.(Credit: Facebook)
The road has currently been blocked off and authorities are at the scene.
The accident was first reported in a post by the Facebook group No Suke Highway.

The developers of the expressway, Projek Lintasan Kota Holdings Sdn Bhd (Prolintas), have yet to release a statement on the accident, although they have noted that commuters will need to make a detour at this time due to the closure of this part of the road.

Not the first time SUKE was involved
Late last year, SUKE was also involved in a freak accident where a concrete slab fell onto a car on the road.
Fortunately for those involved last year, they escaped unhurt.
READ MORE: Concrete Slab Falls On A Proton Saga In KL, While A Tower Crane Piece Falls On A MyVi In PJ

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Source:
Two construction workers killed, two trapped after crane falls on car (Updated)
SUKE工地又出事 柱子掉落砸车4人伤亡


Zahid: Floods & Inflation Narrative Only PH Ploy To Delay The Election

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Waning Malay support towards the coalition is the real reason behind Pakatan Harapan’s (PH) objection to the general election to be held this year, says UMNO president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

In a Facebook posting today, Zahid said that the opposition camp is hiding behind the narrative of floods and inflation to delay the general election.
“The opposition’s real concern is that the Malay voters who represent the country’s largest population are less interested in supporting the coalition when BN is hammering on the election drum,” wrote Zahid.

The Bagan Datuk MP said that PH has no other choice than to deflect the call for an early election to buy some time for the pact to regain the support from the Malays.
Zahid also pointed to a recent report by MalaysiaNow that stated that Malay support for the opposition coalition is at an all-time low.
“In fact, it is said that the survey found that PH will not get more than 15% of the Malay vote in the GE15 if the general election were to be held in the near future,” he said, adding that the Malay votes are likely to return back to UMNO.
The former deputy prime minister also hits out at PH for failing to offer any solutions for flood relief or any ideas to combat inflation, saying that the Opposition pact is more interested in crafting plans to win the next general election rather than finding the solution to the people’s plights.
 “This shows the true attitude of the Opposition. What’s strange is that there are also UMNO allies that are still deceived by the Opposition’s propaganda.
“Or perhaps they have an ulterior motive for wanting to delay the general election before the monsoon season begins,” he said.
UMNO’s call for the general election to be held during the monsoon season was criticised and rejected by several parties, including its ‘frenemy’ PAS.
READ MORE: GE During Flood Season: Young Syefura Upset With Ahmad Zahid Saying That BN Would Brave The Floods If GE Happens This Year

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[Watch] “Why Everything Need To Be Politicalized?” Dr Amalina Criticized For Promoting ‘Keluarga Malaysia’ Slogan

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Who does not know Dr Amalina Che Bakri, a doctor from Malaysia who now lives in London, United Kingdom?

Malaysians know Dr Amalina through her Twitter account @dramalinabakri.
The 34-year-old from Kota Baru, Kelantan is known for her outspoken views on a wide range of subjects, especially on women’s rights and dubious medical practices.
READ MORE: Malaysian Dr Amalina Featured On Vogue UK For Pulling Off A Wedding While Battling Pandemic As A Frontliner
Recently, she attended an open house held in London by Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri, which was shared on social media Twitter.
In the video, Dr Amalina stated that she was happy to celebrate Raya with ‘Keluarga Malaysia’ and the Prime Minister.
Malaysians in London were indulged at The Dorchester, a five-star luxury hotel.
However, what caught the attention of netizens was when Dr Amalina was considered to be promoting the concept of ‘Malaysian Family’ in the video.
The backlash prompted an apology from Dr Amalina.
Apologies that I have offended some of you. Someone interviewed me to ask me to wish selamat hari raya and my wish for Keluarga Malaysia. Why is this suddenly becoming political? I thought that’s the slogan for the country?— Dr. Amalina (@DrAmalinaBakri) May 11, 2022
Online Firestorm
Previously, the concept of ‘Malaysian Family’ has been criticized by many Malaysians because the idea is considered propaganda used on political grounds.
Most netizens on Twitter criticized Dr Amalina’s speech which was considered political and lamented that she is ignorant of the current situation in Malaysia.
Kahkah people truly change and turn their opinion 360. From beria support Amalina, back up her when been bash by FB netizen before this, to yuck yuck her.Well I too much fak with Keluarga Malaysia, but not really into yucking people easier. We not in the same shoes https://t.co/pFFU3Ne1gJ— mawi 🇲🇾 (@mnurasmawi) May 11, 2022
Hi Dr Amalina, I am one of ur many followers on IG, not a hater. It’s just that the word ‘Keluarga Malaysia’ saddens me on every level because after giving birth abroad, I am not welcomed as a part of #KeluargaMalaysia anymore. Check out #SayaJugaAnakMalaysia #ManaDokumenKami pic.twitter.com/NCqAsTxRSV— Esther (@EstherJohor) May 12, 2022
I honestly respect Dr Amalina alot but i just have to say this one thing.Attending the function was not wrong but promoting the “Keluarga Malaysia” slogan is,especially when Ismail Sabri has made so many RACIST remarks in the past and now tries to gaslight us with this slogan. https://t.co/99t7mbd1OK— Tony 🏴🏴 (@Ntony98Jo) May 11, 2022
#KeluargaMalaysia!If @NajibRazak makes a comeback as PM, @DrAmalinaBakri gonna promote #KELUARGA1MALYSIA.Here from:https://t.co/qpIuJcaiyp https://t.co/RsMRXc4VxC— joshuaong (@joshuaong) May 13, 2022
Rhetoric Or Reality?
The ‘Malaysian Family’ concept outlines three main thrusts and 20 value enrichments underlying the new government led by Ismail in 2021.
The idea is to work together in recovering the country from the problems and effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the booklet which contains brief information on ‘Keluarga Malaysia’, the three main thrusts are Inclusivity, Common Ground and Contentment.
PM ISMAIL SABRI PEMIMPIN YANG BERJAYA MENYATU PADUKAN RAKYAT MALAYSIA MELALUI KONSEP #KELUARGA MALAYSIA pic.twitter.com/qW2N347if6— BUKU TULIS (@Bukutulis89) May 11, 2022
Meanwhile, the booklet also shares the vision, goals, strategic direction, message and key areas of focus of the concept.
The vision of ‘Keluarga Malaysia’ is to make Malaysia great again and achieve the status of a developed and high-income country.
Prior to Ismail’s term, past prime ministers and even state leaders also have their own slogans.
Report: najib's slogan 1Malaysia resembles phrase used by the Israel – Bung pic.twitter.com/qZCl13Btv5— Bro2FaceB🇲🇾 (@Bro2Face) September 16, 2020

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RM1.5 Million Fund To Support Malaysian Street Food Thanks To Tiger Beer

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Tiger Beer has always had a soft spot for street food. In Asia, particularly, beer is drank liberally at coffee shops and food courts, paired with mouth-watering simple dishes.
With the movement control order (MCO) in place, many street food vendors and hawker stalls are suffering due to the drastic drop in sales. Many have gone a whole month without even making the bare minimum.
Which is why Tiger Beer has set up a RM1.5 million fund to help cover the rental for street food vendors, coffee shops, and food courts across the country. RM1 million of those funds will be immediately available at more than 1200 coffee shops and food courts nationwide.
The Tiger “Save Our Street Food” fund was set up to help out our street food stalls and ensure that we can still have our favourite Malaysian street food around after the MCO. This fund is in addition to Heineken Malaysia’s provision of 80,000 meals to more than 3,000 B40 community members nearby the brewery premises.
The public can show their support to their favourite local coffee shops and food courts by purchasing drink vouchers for a big bottle of Tiger or Tiger Crystal (regularly priced at RM17) for just RM10. The RM10 goes straight to the food outlet of your choice, and then you can redeem your drink with the voucher once the MCO is lifted. Tiger will contribute an additional RM17 for every voucher redeemed, so these food outlets will be receiving at total of RM27 per voucher purchased and used.
For more details, visit www.drinkies.my/TigerSOS.

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10 Places Around Klang Valley To Celebrate New Years Eve

2020 is just a few days away and there might be one thing on our minds before the year ends and that’ll be where can we go to celebrate the new year?
There are a lot of places around the Klang Valley that you can enjoy the new year and we’ve compiled a few places that might interest you.
1. Desa Park City

Desa Park City is hosting a three-day Countdown 2020 Food Festival at Plaza Arkadia that features multiple food vendors during new year’s eve.
Besides the bazaar, there will also be live performances from local acts and also a fireworks display to usher in the new year.
Visitors can also enjoy other attractions such as riding on the ferries rides and other rides in the theme park as well.

2. Sunway Velocity Mall
Picture Credit: Facebook
Sunway Velocity will celebrate the new years with the Velocity NYE 2020 countdown with a slew of activities that you can enjoy with your loved ones.
They will also have a food carnival starting at 5:30 PM, a concert that features local acts and a fireworks display to top it off when the clock hits 12.
For more information, you can visit here.
3. i-City
Picture Credit: Facebook
If you’re around Shah Alam and don’t want to drive all the way to Kuala Lumpur, why not visit i-City?
To cap off the year, their new year countdown features multi-cultural performances dance and musical performances, brass band parades, and many more.
Also, after 12 AM, the theme park offers a buy-one-free-one ticket offer for every ride and attraction.

4. Publika
Picture Credit: Facebook
This year is no different for Publika as they too will be holding a new year’s celebration.
The evening will start with a line-up of exciting performances featuring local acts and visitors can enjoy local street food, play some carnival games, take pictures in photo booths, as well as enjoying the fireworks at the end of the night.
For more information, you can visit here.
5. Little Genting Ampang
Picture Credit: Flickr
Although the lookout point has been permanently shut down for years now, there are a bunch of roadside stalls that offer a variety of food and the area offers a killer view of the Kuala Lumpur skyline.
The roadside stalls started sprouting about the junction of Jalan Hulu Langat and Jalan Mulia 2/1 where you can enjoy a meal while watching the fireworks.
6. KLCC Park
Picture Credit: KL Convention Centre
If you want to experience the fireworks in the middle of the city but not really interested in spending a lot, then KLCC Park is for you.
Situated in the heart of the city, KLCC Park is a great spot to watch fireworks alighting the twin towers.
7. Merdeka Square
Picture Credit: Wikimedia
What if you want to be in Kuala Lumpur but you don’t prefer KLCC? Maybe you can try to head to Merdeka Square instead.
Just like KLCC Park, you’ll have the advantage of being in the city center where you can enjoy the fireworks that illuminate the Kuala Lumpur skyline.
Plus the Tourism Ministry is also organising their own new year’s eve countdown at the Dataran with several interactive programmes such as exhibitions, cultural hunt games, heritage food demonstration as well as cultural and art performances.
8. Lampu Festival
Picture Credit: Perbadanan Putrajaya
What if you want to spend your new year’s eve outside of the Klang Valley? You can also visit Putrajaya as there will be the annual Light and Motion Putrajaya (LAMPU) Festival.
The festival which is in its seventh-year features a spectacular projection mapping show that uses state-of-the-art technology to create a light show on the Palace of Justice building.
9. Helipad KL
Picture Credit: The Rooftop Guide
Heli Lounge Bar KL is a bar that’s also a helicopter pad in Bukit Bintang and it offers unique views to patrons.
It should be a place to consider as you can enjoy a 360-view of Kuala Lumpur with iconic buildings surrounding as you enjoy the fireworks that brighten the night sky during new year’s.
10. Atmosphere 360
Picture Credit: YouTube
Sitting next to KL Tower is quite neat but how about being inside the building itself in a bar that wraps around the tower?
That’s Atmosphere 360 and it offers unparalleled views of Kuala Lumpur as you’ll be able to see fireworks from around Kuala Lumpur as you’re in one of the tallest buildings in the country.
BONUS: Sunway City

Weâ€™re adding another venue to the list of places where you can celebrate your new year as Sunway is also throwing their annual to welcome 2020 at Sunway City.
Happening front of Sunway Resort Hotel & Spa, there will be a slew of activities for visitors including the countdown concert which will culminate with the customary fireworks celebration at the end of the night.
In conjunction with the new yearâ€™s eve celebration, Sunwayâ€™s water theme park, Sunway Lagoon will also be holding their own celebrations – the Cloudora Festival happening at Surf Beach on December 31.

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Why Should You Gift Your Loved Ones A Fruit Basket For Chinese New Year 2021?

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Health has never been more of a priority in these unprecedented times, and Chinese New Year is a good time as any to wish your loved ones good health in the coming year. This makes a basket of healthy summer fruits the perfect auspicious gift to usher in the new year.

The biggest lesson this pandemic has taught us is the value of our health. We’re more conscious of consuming healthy, nutritious foods.Laura Davies, International Brand Manager for Taste Australia
Fruits are good sources of vitamins and minerals
A diet rich in vegetables and fruits can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, prevent some types of cancer, lower risk of eye and digestive problems, and have a positive effect upon blood sugar, which can help keep appetite in check.
Traditionally, oranges and tangerines are the fruits often gifted during Chinese New Year. However, eating a variety of types and colours of fruits gives your body the mix of nutrients it needs. This not only ensures a greater diversity of beneficial plant chemicals but also creates an eye-appealing gift.
Summer fruits, such as plums, nectarines, peaches, and apricots are powerful sources of vitamins, known to boost the immune system and provide energy to the body.
(Credit: Luke Michael/Unsplash)
They contain an abundance of antioxidants such as vitamins A, E and C – vital tools that work to strengthen your immune system to fight off infections. The properties in vitamin C additionally increases the production of collagen for healthy skin.
READ MORE: Everything We Know About Vitamin C In Relation To Covid-19
These jewel-toned fruits are also brimming with high levels of potassium, which is a key nutrient in regulating blood pressure and promoting the health of your nerves and muscles.
Alongside their excellent health benefits, peaches, nectarines, plums and apricots are also wonderfully delicious, making them a perfect healthy treat to gift your friends and family members.
Stone fruits and their symbolism in Chinese culture
Some summer fruits have a strong connection to Chinese culture.
Peaches, for example, represent longevity and prosperity. This makes the fruit and its blossoms very important in Chinese culture, especially during the Chinese New Year festivities. Peach blossoms also symbolise romance, prosperity, and growth.
(Credit: Jacek Dylag/Unsplash)
In traditional belief, peaches also represent immortality and unity. While immortality may be out of reach, health, longevity and unity are things we can actively work to achieve.Laura Davies, International Brand Manager for Taste Australia
Meanwhile, plums and apricots are often used as holy offerings in Buddhist temples as they are symbolic of good luck, wealth, fortune, and gold.
If you’re not sure where to get good Australian summer stone fruits, you can start with Taste Australia.
Taste Australia’s summer fruits are superfoods jam-packed with vitamins and delicious flavour and we’re pleased to be able to share them in Malaysia just in time for Chinese New Year.Laura Davies, International Brand Manager for Taste Australia
Whether you’re gifting during Chinese New Year or stocking up to enjoy at leisure, Taste Australia’s range of luscious summer fruits is available in all the major supermarkets, including  Jaya Grocer, Village Grocer, and AEON supermarkets across Malaysia.

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Meet The Beatboxing Buddhist Monk Who Creates Musical Mantras Live On YouTube

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Yogetsu Akasaka is a Japanese Zen monk who has gained online fame for his unique videos that marry his love for music with his love for Buddhism.  His videos frequently feature him clad in a simple buddhist monk outfit standing in the middle of a minimalistic white back drop. He then proceeds to grab a mic, beatbox and perform often times live with a loop machine.

The 37-year-old is best known for his video “Heart Sutra Live Looping Remix,” that currently at time of writing has almost 3.2 million youtube views. His work has been described as relaxing like ASMR, yet engrossing like a DJ set.

A Beat Boxing Zen Monk’s Source of Inspiration?
“Usually in Japan, people become monks because their family lives in a temple. But for my father, he was just a normal person who decided to become a monk,” he told Vice.
“I was inspired, and decided I wanted to succeed in my father’s current role as an abbot in a temple in the Iwate Prefecture.”With skillful usage of the loop machine, Yogetsu layers sounds and chants to create his unique style of music. Using only his voice as an instrument and his loop machine he is able to create his ASMR style music that has won hearts from people around the world.
Yogetsu Akasaka Youtube Channel
Yogetsu Akasaka Youtube Channel
Yogetsu Akasaka Youtube Channel
Akasaka was beatboxing even before becoming a zen monk.
“My friend had given me a CD of a Japanese beatboxer named Afra and said that he was performing using his mouth. I was absolutely shocked that people could do such things, and so I was interested in trying it. And then I realised, I was pretty good at it,”
Screen Grab: Yogetsu Akasaka Youtube Channel
Beatboxing has always been a part of Akasaka’s life. He was busking in Japan, Australia, and even as far as the United States. He was also a theatre actor.
By merging his old life and passion for music with his new one, Akasaka was able to shatter misconceptions about Buddhism. He is also able to perform his chants daily on Youtube, effectively exposing his love for music and religion to all his fans globally.
“I think in Japan, people often associate Buddhism with funerals, and the sutra has a little bit of a negative and sad image,”Akasaka
“I have had fans tell me that they were able to sleep well and relax due to my beatboxing videos, which is absolutely amazing,” he said.
“I am honoured to be able to combine my passion with my religious beliefs, and that this has impacted people around the world.”
Pic Credit: Nextshark
Bonus Video: Cyber Punk Themed Heart Sutra

Do check out his Youtube channel.

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EPF Account 1 Withdrawal Approved By Govt, Maximum RM10,000 Limit

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The government approved withdrawal from Account 1 of the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) up to RM10,000 for those who have lost their jobs or suffered pay cuts this year.

Finance Minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz made the announcement in Parliament today, stating that EPF members can apply to withdraw their funds online or visit any EPF office.
Tengku Zafrul Aziz, Finance Minister.(Credit: Facebook/Tengku Zafrul)
READ MORE: Quick Highlights Of The Drama In Parliament Before Budget 2021 Was Passed
The i-Sinar programme is now open to 8 million EPF members, who only need to show proof that their incomes have been affected in order to withdraw their savings.
According to Malaysiakini, this programme is also open to those who are:
no longer able to generate additional income by working overtime.no longer active contributorsworking in informal sectors affected by the economic downturn
Previously, EPF had announced a RM9,000 limit for Account 1 withdrawal.
Under usual circumstances, funds from EPF Account 1 are only accessible once members turn 55 years old.
READ MORE: i-Sinar: EPF Allows Account 1 Withdrawal Up To RM60,000. Here’s How

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Source:
EPF Account 1 withdrawal expanded to those with reduced income
Govt okays RM10,000 withdrawal from EPF Account 1


AG Report: Education And Women’s Ministries Took Up To 1,922 Days To Report Public Loss Of Money

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The Education Ministry and the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry were found to have delayed or neglected to lodge police reports on losses of public funds and movable assets according to the Auditor-General’s Report for 2019.

21 police reports have been made relating to public money and movable asset losses for the Education Ministry which amount to RM705,894.
It’s stated that these reports were either late or were not yet lodged, and it takes between 3 and 1,746 days.
The time taken to lodge a police report is unreasonable, which is up to 1,746 days compared to 24 hours after the losses are discovered.Attorney General Report 2019 via The Star
It’s also reported that the Ministry that preliminary reports for 13 cases involving public money worth up to RM699,718 were either never prepared or was late, taking between 7 and 1,922 days.
The standard procedure is that it must be submitted to the Secretariat by between 66 and 63 working days, including from the date the police report is made until the date the final report is submitted.
The Education Ministry said the delay was due to a set of problems – the late response of its Responsibility Centre (PTJ), incomplete reports, and the time taken by the district education officer to check on the cases, among others.
As for the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry, it was revealed that 7 public money losses amounting to RM196,132 were lodged late, taking between 5 and 853 days which the report deems as “unreasonable”.
There was also preliminary reports for 4 public money losses which amounts to RM405,175 were also delayed between 38 and 1,484 days.
The final report for eight public money losses investigations amounting to RM543,088 were also not yet or were late in being submitted to the Secretariat by between 18 and 277 days.Attorney General Report 2019 via The Star
In response, the Women’s Ministry’s said that the delay in preparing the preliminary report was due to the officer having a lack of understanding on procedures.

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Malaysian Amateur Football Team Challenges The World To A Game Of Keepie Uppie

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With lockdowns keeping people indoors, it takes some creativity and a whole lot of willpower to keep ourselves active, socially connected, and more or less sane in a pandemic stricken planet.
In the hopes of starting a viral trend and in trying to connect the world through the simple joys and love of football, a Malaysian amateur football team is challenging the world to a game of keepie uppie.
The Black Army Rovers Football Club (FC) is a team established by a bunch of Malays, Chinese, Indians, and British chaps who enjoy playing matches during the weekends, or so says the teamâ€™s short Facebook intro.
The fellas of Black Army Rovers FC.(Credit: Facebook/Black Army FC)
In an effort to show love and the beauty of the human spirit, the team invites football fans, fanatics, and players from around the world to showcase their juggling skills in a show of solidarity towards the global fight against Covid-19.
Through videos posted on the FCâ€™s social media pages, the team calls on football enthusiasts to stay at home and share their own awesome renditions of continuous kick-up clips.
The 2-minute video shows a mix match of clips advertising the different perspectives of players who do nothing more but balance a ball between one another with the power of movie magic, in a shared message of compassion and hope to the world. (Though we’re still a bit skeptical on the team’s choice in music…)
         View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Black Army Rovers (@baroversfc) on Apr 22, 2020 at 7:44am PDT
The #stayconnectedthroughfootball project features 25 dedicated football fans from around the globe, consisting of the teamâ€™s own members as well as players from rival teams.
So far the video has only received less than 500 views, but here’s to hoping that the fellas over at Black Army Rovers FC can get the professional teams to go at it as well.

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Catch Jurassic World Under The Stars At TGV Cinemas & AEON Mall Drive-In Movie

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It appears that the “new normal” is bringing newfangled screening experiences for Malaysian moviegoers.

TGV Cinemas and AEON mall are teaming up to give RAWR!-ing film fans a chance to “visit” Jurassic World at its Moonlight Drive-In Cinema.
This August tickets will be on sale for the showing of two movies; Jurassic World and its sequel, Jurassic World Fallen Kingdom, for your drive-in viewing pleasure.
Through its social media channels, TGV Cinemas explained that viewers are in for a lovely night under the sky and stars.
Screenings will be held from 7pm onwards with the two movies playing back to back at AEON mall outlets in Nilai (Negeri Sembilan), Bukit Indah (Johor), and Cheras Selatan (Selangor).
Previously, the state of Perak became the first place in Malaysia to open a drive-in cinema.

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Source:
Malaysian Moviegoers May Get To Return To Cinemas Soon
Moonlight Drive-In


WHO Warns That Covid-19 Will Be Around For A Long Time

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The World Health Organization (WHO) thinks that the Covid-19 pandemic will likely be with us for a very long time.
Experts at WHO believe that the world can never go back to the way it was before and that humanity must learn to adapt to a â€œnew normalâ€.
(Credit: Raymond Zhu/Unsplash)
While many nations have essentially managed to bring the pandemic under control with strict social distancing measures and lockdown restrictions, WHO explains that the situation could worsen at any time as the virus remains extremely dangerous and susceptible to huge parts of the population.
Plenty of work to be done
WHO says that most countries are still in the early stages of tackling the pandemic while others are seeing a resurgence of cases, where the number of infections begins to increase, again.
(Credit: Firdaus Latif/Malay Mail)
Experts say that as long as the virus exists, the chances of an outbreak remain very high, and nations have to plan and anticipate future eventualities in order to successfully put a stop to the pandemic.
As of April there have been over 2.5 million confirmed Covid-19 infections around the globe, with over 180,000 reported deaths.
The United Nations (UN) had also previously come out saying that the world would only return to normal once a vaccine for the viral strain is found.

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