What Happened With Ops Lalang 33 Years Ago?

Subscribe to our new Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

Ops Lalang has shaped Malaysia to what it is today, 33 years later, even though most of us don’t remember it- or even know of it.

After all, the operation was carried out amidst controversy and was never addressed in our Sejarah textbooks.
Not That Long Ago…
On 27 October 1987, the Internal Security Act (ISA) was invoked to arrest over 100 people without trial, including NGO activists, opposition politicians, students, media reporters, artists, and others.
Today,33 years of Ops lalang. I had the opportunity to lead the campaign under Gerakan Mansuhkan ISA (GMI).I learnt to understand the pain, fear&impact of ISA.I have witnessed how fear has been used as a tool to run the country.This should never repeat in any shape or form! pic.twitter.com/oEl9ptxB2w— Nalini Elumalai (@nalinielumalai) October 27, 2020
Furthermore, three newspapers had their publishing licenses revoked: The Star, Sin Chew Jit Poh, and Watan.
While the official reason for this drastic operation carried out by the Malaysian Special Branch and the Royal Malaysian Police is to defuse racial tension, it is widely speculated that it was a method for then-Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad to remove his political opponents.
The background context, however, sounds like the issues we still face today, such as: the conflict between the vernacular Chinese schools and the Ministry of Education, NGOs criticizing government policies, the  challenges to the Malay bumiputra status, and fear of forced Islamization.
Kampung Baru was where an Umno Youth rally was meant to be held, one of the igniting sparks that led to the execution of Ops Lalang.
The Aftermath
After Ops Lalang, Malaysia changed.
Freedom of press became significantly less free. While The Star, Sin Chew Jit Poh, and Watan regained their licenses and publication half a year later, newspapers began to self-censor their content over fears of ‘displeasing the government’.
Government ministries and politicians would advise newspapers on how issues should be approached or avoided. More liberal discourse or criticism of the government were averted.
Other newspapers quickly learned to not publish anything that might be too provoking.
The following year in 1988, Dr. Mahathir sacked the Supreme Court judges to public outcry in what is commonly termed as the “1988 Judicial Crisis“.
We are on the road to dictatorship. I cannot see any other way… This is no democracy.Tunku Abdul Rahman, first Prime Minister of Malaysia
Where We Are 33 Years Later
Three decades later, while things have improved considerably, that same fear of the government still lies as an undercurrent in Malaysian society.
While the ISA has since been repealed, it has been replaced by the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA), which has been criticized by human rights activist groups for being deeply flawed and draconian.
Human rights activists in Malaysia can still speak freely and hold rallies pre-Covid-19.
Still, freedom of press in Malaysia has returned gradually, especially since the 14th General Election in 2018.
However, many media companies often self-censor preemptively out of fear of government disapproval. Artists also face constant censorship in their political works, such as Zunar, whose Najib clown face earned him nine charges under the sedition act.
Ops Lalang is not taught in schools and there is little public discussion around it outside of human rights groups and analysis of political history. However, it may be time to learn from history so we don’t commit the same mistakes.

Share your thoughts with us on TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.TAGS


No Rift Between Ismail Sabri & Zahid, They Have Been Friends Since The Seventies

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

UMNO President Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and the party’s vice president Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob both dispelled rumours of a feud between the two when they appeared together in Barisan Nasional (BN) Solidarity, Stability and Prosperity programme at the Bagan Datuk Umno Complex in Perak yesterday.

On his full-day visit to Perak, caretaker prime minister Ismail Sabri appeared in the programme held in his party boss constituency in Bagan Datuk.
“Both the president and I are united, but the Opposition wishes to see us apart and divide us, so it will benefit them,” Ismail Sabri was quoted as saying by The Star.
Apart from Ismail Sabri, other BN leaders also joined the programme including caretaker Perak menteri besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad and deputy MCA president Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon, who is also the state party chairman.
Ismail also said that he and Zahid go way back.
“We have been friends for a very long time.
“I have known him since our school days, and I also know his wife since their courtship.
“We must be united to ensure a huge victory in the 15th General Election, and we need to stop the slanderous remarks, otherwise we will lose out.
“When outsiders talked about factions in Umno, both of us sat down and said we had to put an end to this,” said Ismail.
Zahid: “We know each other since we were young”
According Ahmad Zahid, he had befriended Ismail Sabri when he was still back in university in 1973.
 “During my first year at Universiti Malaya, my roommate was Ismail Sabri’s brother (Kamarazaman Yaakob) and he (Ismail Sabri) was studying in a technical school every weekend. He used to come to visit his brother.
“What have I not done with him – I have hugged him, kissed his cheeks, the only thing I have not done is kiss his mouth, that is ‘geli’,” he said in jest.
The BN chairman also slammed the Opposition for continuing to harp on the narrative that the upcoming 15th general election will take place during the monsoon season, pointing towards that the previous Melaka state election too was held in November.
“When does it not rain in Malaysia? Taiping is the wettest town in the country. It rains daily.”
“Does that mean elections should not be held there forever?” he asked.

Share your thoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!


Study: 87% Malaysians Only Read News Headlines, Leading To Fake News

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

You’re not one of them.

Congratulations! Happy April Fools!

Share your thoughts with us on TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Pasir Gudang schools poisoned with toxic fumes, at least 15 affected with breathing difficulties and vomiting

If it was oil spills into rivers that got people sick in March 2019, this time it is some fume gas that has not been identified causing children to be rushed to the hospitalâ€™s emergency department.
What started as an unpleasant odour smelling like burning grass and faeces led to more than a dozen ill.

via GIPHY
As of now, only 2 schools, Sekolah Agama Taman Mawar and Sekolah Kebangsaan Pasir Gudang 4, are known to be affected with 15 people -13 students and 2 staff- rushed to Sultan Ismail Hospital (HSI).
Students affected are aged between 7 and 12.
The incident started yesterday evening at around 4pm during the Raya Open House celebration in schools.

Students started vomiting and had breathing difficulties, with one pupil fainting in school.
They were brought to HSI where 4 students were sent to Red Zone (critical), 3 students to Yellow Zone (semi-critical) and the others including the staff to Green Zone (not critical).
Until now, no one has been admitted.

via GIPHY
There is speculation that liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) fumes were responsible for the poisoning.
Though Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad still has not officially announced the cause of the intoxication, everything is said to be â€˜under controlâ€™.

KKM menunggu laporan lengkap drpd JKN Johor berhubung laporan berlaku lagi pencemaran udara di Pasir Gudang.
Maklumat awal kami terima kejadian berlaku di Taman Mawar dan sekolah agama berhampiran.
Bilik gerakan kami berhubung terus JKN Johor untuk info lengkap. – @DrDzul
— KKMPutrajaya (@KKMPutrajaya) June 20, 2019

Precautions have been taken by the Johor Department of Environment (DoE) and the Fire and Rescue Departmentâ€™s Hazardous Materials Team (Hazmat), who have been monitoring the air quality within a 2 kilometre radius of the incident every 4 hours since last night.
So far according to the initial air quality report, no traces of carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and volatile organic compound (VOC) in the vicinity.

via GIPHY
No schools have been closed. Dzulkefly still feels it is too early for such measures to be taken.
If you are around Pasir Gudang, do take safety precautions such as minimise outdoor activities and wear masks.
Do seek medical help as soon as possible, if you have any similar symptoms, such as headaches, dizziness, vomiting or breathing difficulties.

via GIPHY
And if you do know any information regarding any suspicious behaviour or activities, to contact the nearest police station.


Veuve Clicquot Celebrates 250th Anniversary with Exclusive Gastronomy Experience

Subscribe to our Telegram channel or follow us on the Lumi News app for the latest stories and updates.

Veuve Clicquot, the iconic champagne House, recently commemorated its 250th anniversary with an exclusive gastronomy experience in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The celebration was graced by expert winemaker Marie Charlemagne and highlighted the House’s ability to reinvent itself in oenology and design through inspiration and innovation.
Marie Charlemagne shares the unique signature of Veuve Clicquot’s champagnes. (Pix: Moët Hennessy Diageo Malaysia)
The event, which took place at Beta KL, showcased the House’s avant-garde culture and iconic yellow colour.
The 250-year heritage was celebrated with panache, and its solaire culture expressed one of Madame Clicquot‘s convictions that each new day opens new paths to build a brighter future.
Honouring Madame Clicquot’s Legacy
Carole Bildé, Chief of Marketing and Communications at Veuve Clicquot, commented on the anniversary celebration.
She said it was more than an anniversary; an ode to joy, optimism, and the audacious resilience that began with Madame Clicquot, la grande dame of Champagne.

From Madame Clicquot’s profoundly optimistic state of mind to our iconic yellow, our link to the sun is rooted in our DNA. Our 250th anniversary embodies Veuve Clicquot’s belief that every sunrise promises endless opportunities.
Carole Bildé, Chief of Marketing and Communications at Veuve Clicquot paying homage to Madame Clicquot’s contribution to the design of the champagne bottle we know today.
Marie Charlemagne takes guests on a historical and enhancing tasting journey of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label. (Pix: Moët Hennessy Diageo Malaysia)
The celebration also paid homage to Madame Clicquot’s legacy as “la grande dame de la Champagne.”
Her contribution to the design of the champagne bottle we know today was driven by a desire to combine aesthetics and functionality.
The House of Veuve Clicquot has preserved its legacy, which remains a leader in creating exceptional objects and gift boxes.
The iconic champagne House commemorated its 250th anniversary with an exclusive gastronomy experience in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. (Pix: Moët Hennessy Diageo Malaysia)
An Exclusive Tasting Experience
As part of the event, a select group of guests were treated to an exclusive Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Champagne tasting paired with the culinary creations of Beta KL’s renowned chef.
The guests embarked on a historical and enhancing tasting journey of its iconic Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label.
The Yellow Label is an iconic champagne of the House and was featured prominently in their 250th-anniversary celebration. (Pix: Moët Hennessy Diageo Malaysia)
The Veuve Clicquot vineyard, established from historic plots in Verzy, Verzenay, and Bouzy, has grown into one of the largest in the Champagne region.
Madame Clicquot and the next generation of vineyard directors at Veuve Clicquot were instrumental in developing the vineyard, which now spans 393 hectares and supplies the House with grapes.
The vineyard’s exceptional quality is reflected in its distribution over the best Crus in Champagne, with an average classification close to 96% based on winegrowing characteristics and grape quality.
The Veuve Clicquot’s 250th-anniversary celebration was a testament to the House’s long-standing culture of design and innovation that began with Madame Clicquot.

Share your thoughts with us via TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


COVID-19, One Week Of MCO, And All The Little Things We Took For Granted

https://www.facebook.com/zayan.my/posts/1090190818010160
Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on COVID-19 and other issues.

To say that the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we live is an understatement.
The outbreak not only triggered a series of government-imposed lockdowns and restricted movement orders around the world, it has also sparked fear and uncertainty among people as well.Â
While the primary concern in our minds will always be about finances and the availability of supplies, there are still other questions that bother us:
â€œWhen will this end?â€
â€œIs it still safe out there?â€

A week into Malaysiaâ€™s Movement Control Order (MCO)

(Credit: Malay Mail)

The MCO has been in place in Malaysia for a week as of today.Â
Back at home, Malaysians are advised to only head out to buy supplies if absolutely necessary. Several roadblocks have been set up by the police to monitor public movement during the MCO period, assisted by the Malaysian Armed Forces.
At the airport and border checkpoints, things are said to be much quieter. This is because the MCO states that no Malaysian is allowed to leave the country, and no foreign tourists are allowed in during this period.Â
On the surface, it seems as if the whole country has come to a standstill – what with the little traffic on the roads and only a few people out and about.Â
The total opposite is probably happening in the hospitals and the Health Director-Generalâ€™s office. Medical staff are scrambling to care for both confirmed and suspected cases – some have reportedly worked for 24 hours. Hospitals are also running out of personal protective equipment as we speak.

â€œLife will never be the same again after COVID-19â€

(Credit: Jusdevoyage/Unsplash)

Many news portals – international and local – have published commentaries that say the world will forever be changed after the COVID-19 pandemic.Â
Global economy will take some time to recover. Healthcare systems around the world will probably go through some changes to be more prepared for the next pandemic, should there be any. We might become more reliant on digital services like e-commerce and cashless payment methods.Â
And hopefully, we will learn to be more grateful for the things we enjoy.Â

A reminder of all the little things we took for granted

We donâ€™t appreciate what we have until itâ€™s gone. Freedom is like that. Itâ€™s like air. When you have it, you donâ€™t notice it.Boris Yeltsin, First President of Russia
Personally, I think nothing describes our situation more aptly than the quote above.Â
Donâ€™t get me wrong – we still enjoy freedom. The MCO does allow us to head out when necessary, but it does change our life pattern a lot.Â

Our freedom of movement

(Credit: Ling Tang/Unsplash)

About two months ago, we barely thought twice about heading out for window shopping, or to catch up with friends and family over a meal. Going out seems so â€˜naturalâ€™ and so convenient – what with public transportation and ride-hailing apps like Grab.
As of late last month, some of us start to seriously consider the need to go out – especially if it is to crowded places – out of fear of being infected with the virus. Fast forward to last week when the MCO started, I think it is safe to say that most of us have not stepped out of our home compound for days.Â

Our â€˜borderlessâ€™ experience

(Credit: Eva Darron/Unsplash)

Holding a Malaysian passport gives us a lot of privilege that many other nationalities could only dream of. Our passport is said to be the 13th most powerful one in the world, giving us visa-free access to 176 countries.Â
Our experience with international travelling can be described as almost â€˜borderlessâ€™. Entry requirements like the Electronic Travel Authority as well as visas (if any) are easily attainable, going overseas is only a flight away – provided you have enough funds to do so, of course.
Many countries, including our own, have started to close their borders to curb the spread of the virus. The move is unprecedented and almost unheard of, especially since these countries are not in any state of war or internal conflict.Â

Our time with our family

To lose a loved one is heartbreaking enough under normal circumstances – but more so during an outbreak.Â
A Malaysian netizen described the burial of a deceased COVID-19 patient as â€œa lonely deathâ€: family members were not allowed to be with the deceased in their last moments; nor were they allowed to perform funeral rituals such as bathing the body or perform funeral prayers near it.
The netizen also described COVID-19 as â€œa lonely illnessâ€ as friends and family are not allowed to be near any patient due to its contagious nature. The same applies to those under quarantine.Â
Malaysians who are working in other states and countries are also separated from their family members, since the MCO strongly discourages inter-state travelling to break the chain of infection.Â
For those of us who are fortunate enough to endure the MCO together with our family members – all these should act as a reminder of how blessed we are to still have our loved ones close to us.

Our own home

(Credit: Kechara Soup Kitchen/Facebook)

Some Malaysians still have to sleep rough during the MCO.Â
While most of us can stay home and protect ourselves during the MCO, the same cannot be said for the homeless of Malaysia. Not only are they exposed to the virus, the suspension of a few soup kitchens during this period also means that they barely have access to food these days.Â
Thankfully, a few non-government organisations and Malaysians have come together to continue to feed the homeless. Some of them have also been moved to a temporary shelter, but many are still on the streets.Â
And yet, there are still those who openly defy the MCO despite having a home of their own to stay safe in.

We can get through this together

All of us have a part to play in fighting this virus.Â
Scientists scramble to find a cure and vaccine as fast as they can; while medical staff work around the clock to treat patients. The least all of us can do is to practise good personal hygiene and stay home during the MCO period.Â
While we are at it, maybe we can start appreciating the things we have and spend quality time with the ones that matter most to us.

Share your MCO experience with us on TRPâ€™s Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.


M’sia Is Running Out of Seafood, And It’s All Your Fault

Can you ever imagine Malaysian without seafood? No ikan siakap with your rice, no ikan bakar, not even juicy prawns in your laksa.
Unfortunately, the fact of the matter is that Malaysia has already lost 90% of its demersal (bottom-dwelling) fish stock. This includes some of our favourite kinds of seafood such as groupers, snappers, catfish, whitefish, and stingrays.
According to a 2019 report by Reef Check Malaysia, many of our highly-valued fishes such as barramundi cod (siakap), moray eels (belut laut), grouper (ikan kerapu), and snappers (ikan merah) are scarce along Malaysian coasts, even though most of the 180 survey sites are protected waters.
In fact, barramundi cod (ikan siakap) and the humphead wrasse (ikan bayan) were conspicuously missing from all 180 survey sites.

This is mostly due to unsustainable and often illegal fishing practices, which can cause the collapse of fish numbers. Since prices for these fishes can reach up to US$10,000 for a single adult humphead wrasse, poachers target these fish even within marine protected areas.
However, the decline of fish stock is also exacerbated by the damage to our coral reefs, which supports 25% of all marine life.
Coral reefs are a big part of the Malaysian ecosystem. While well-known for our beautiful beaches and picturesque islands, our country is actually world-renowned for our unique tropical biodiversity, including our marine life!
Sadly, due to human activity, our coral reefs are under pressure more than ever. Fishing, coastal development, industrial pollution, and even tourism plays a big part as stressors to the coastlines.
Soon, there might actually be no more fish to be caught.(Credit: Freepik)
On many Malaysian islands surveyed, the number of resorts and tourists are increasing without any regard to the carrying capacity or rapid development of the island.
Data from the International Coastal Clean-up also indicates that local, national, and regional waste management is atrocious, as Malaysia is already known to have one of the most polluting rivers in the world.
Malaysian coral reefs are also threatened by the global threat of coral bleaching. Over 40% of corals in the Peninsular Malaysia area died in 1998, the first significant mass coral reed bleaching event. Later on, the reefs barely recovered before yet another bleaching event in 2010.
The colourful corals here are actually animals, not plants! But these marine invertebrates sustain a diverse range of wildlife, so the healthier the coral reefs, the healthier the marine life.(Credit: Unsplash)
Even tropical storms, worsening due to climate change, cause significant damage to coral reefs, such as the tropical storm Pabuk which hit Terengganu coastlines in January 2019 and which impacted the shallow reefs in both Redang and Perhentian islands.
According to the report, Malaysian reefs have only an average live coral cover of 40.63%, adding on to the downward trend since 2015.
But what’s even more concerning is that this coral reef health decline is a significant cause for alarm, as low live coral covers also means low abundance of both fish and invertebrate indicators.
This is happening despite the fact that these waters are protected to conserve marine resources and that we should actually be expecting an increase in abundance instead.
Can you imagine a world without fish? We can’t.(Credit: Freepik)
As such, all Malaysian stakeholders are urged to revise their commitments to keeping our marine wildlife safe.
How to make a change
Marine biologist and researcher at Boston University Randi Rotjan suggests that individuals wanting to help can be more active in helping ocean conservation groups, making sure that your elected representatives discuss this issue, and raise awareness of the threats faced by coral reefs.
Individual actions can be taken as well. Talk to your local fishmonger about where their fish came from. If you shop at a grocery store, look for certified sustainable seafood with these logos as approved by WWF Malaysia:

You can also be more involved with activities such as local beach clean ups and minimizing your carbon footprint in general.
According to Professor Rotjan, conservation efforts definitely have a positive impact, as similar protected marine waters regained their biodiversity in just two years after a bleaching event.
However, while it sounds like good news that there are marine protected areas, its protection must be well-enforced to eliminate outside stressors to the marine wildlife in the area.

Save our seafood! Let us know what you think on our Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram!


[Movie Review] Cruella – Disney’s Formula Worked This Time

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

Cruella (the movie) just like Estella (the character) has a lot stacked against it. Being a live-action adaptation of a Disney animated feature and an origin/redemption story of a villain makes it doubly so.

However, while many would discount Cruella as another regurgitation of Disney’s recent movie formula, those who give it a chance would see that the movie is worth its two hours and 14-minute runtime.
Cruella is the story of Estella (Emma Stone), a girl who was born with black and white hair, a duality in her personality, and a passion for fashion. People around her underestimated her, much like how I underestimated this movie at first.
Even at a young age, her talent was beyond the capacity of her small town, so to save her from being expelled from school, Estella’s mother decided to take her to London.
The two were looking forward to a brighter future in the big city, but a detour to a strange mansion during a fashion gala set in motion the gears that would turn Estella into Cruella.
Lose The Baggage
(credit: Disney+)
Cruella is directed by Craig Gillespie who did an excellent job in fitting a story about a girl who is very talented and passionate about fashion, into a setting like 101 Dalmation. It is like fitting a square peg in a round hole, but he made it work.
I feel this movie would have been excellent if it did not have the baggage of Disney’s 101 Dalmation. I grew up watching that movie.
Jasper (Joel Fry) wasn’t the perceptive and understanding guy, Horace (Paul Walter Hauser) was not charming, Roger ( Kayvan Novak) was not Persian, and Anita (Kirby Howell-Baptiste) was not black.
On top of it all, dalmatians are not the bad guys.
Why not just make the movie stand on its own merits.
The Two Emmas
(credit: Disney+)
Emma Stone and Emma Thompson (The Baroness) stole every scene that they are in.
Although their characters (Estella and The Baroness) are eccentric, neither are one-note.
Estella is not the bestest-ever at everything. While she is extremely talented, headstrong, smart and kind, she can also be rude, misunderstood, and has her vulnerabilities and flaws.
It is the same with The Baroness, who is the flamboyant antagonist. She does not immediately reprimand Estella’s idea and goes as far as even recognising and giving her talent a chance.
Extra Points
(credit: Disney+)
Even if you don’t fancy the story, there are the magnificent costumes created by Oscar-winner Jenny Beavan and the excellent music chosen by Susan Jacobs makes me want to buy the CD (available on all your favourite music streaming services too of course).
If you have a Disney+ Hotstar subscription, this is a must-watch.

Share your thoughts with us via TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Nepotism? Screenshot Of MOH Website Suggests Deputy Health Minister Hired Relatives As Staff

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

On 6 September, Malaysian netizens stumbled upon information hinting that nepotism had occurred within the Health Ministry.

A screenshot of the Ministry’s e-directory on their website suggested that the Deputy Health Minister, his Senior Private Secretary, and Private Secretary may be related.
Aih.. ni awat pejabat penuh sanak saudara ni? pic.twitter.com/wUnuxzDdL1— The Mamu™ 🇲🇾 (@The_Mamu) September 6, 2020
This was understood according to the full names of the individuals in these positions. Whereby, the Deputy Health Minister Dato’ Dr Haji Noor Azmi Bin Ghazali and his Private Secretary Encik Noor Azman Bin Ghazali appeared to share the same patronym name, suggesting that they may be brothers.
Meanwhile, the Senior Private Secretary Encik Muhammad Ubaidah Bin Noor Azman appears to have the patronym name of the Private Secretary. Suggesting that he may be the Private Secretary’s son and nephew of the Deputy Health Minister.
(FYI, patronym names in this sense means the surname is derived from the father’s name. Using a patronym name as a surname is a common naming practice in Malaysia.)
Screenshot of Health Ministry’s e-directory page on their website. (Credit: Ministry of Health)
Some social media users believe that these appointments are proof of nepotism occurring within the Health Ministry.
Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia (KKM) tukar keKementerian Kekeluargaan Malaysia (KKM)— cell celly (@cell380) September 6, 2020
However, several others pointed out that Private Secretaries are usually appointed through direct means and involve close contacts due to the fact that the individuals hired need to be trusted.
Jawatan su sulit memang biasanya dilantik dari kalangan kenalan rapat, sebab jawatan ni banyak tahu rahsia. Kena cari orang yang dipercayai. Yang penting kena tengok kelayakan lah, kalau layak rasanya takda masalah. Yang taklayak tu yang jadi isu— Amir Zakwan (@Ridzwan12Didi) September 7, 2020
Betul gak. Setiausaha sulit dia pilih sendiri kan— nona manis (@nyonyamansuh) September 6, 2020
According to this 2018 circular, Paragraph 12 states that appointments of ministerial staff, including the appointment of a Deputy Minister’s private secretary, falls under the jurisdiction of the Public Service Commission, or the Suruhanjaya Perkhidmatan Awam Malaysia (SPA).
Though, a clause in the circular (Paragraph 13) does mention that any appointments made through “special placement” doesn’t have to go through SPA.
Instead, these placements can be implemented by the Head of Services (Ketua Perkhidmatan), subject to conditions set by the director-general of Public Services in accordance with regulation 13A of the Public Officers Regulations (Appointment, Promotion and Termination of Service) 2012 [P.U.(A) 1/2012].
We aren’t entirely clear on how the individuals mentioned above were appointed into their positions, or if they even are related to the Deputy Health Minister.
However, we have contacted Noor Azmi for his comments and are still awaiting his reply.

Share your thoughts with us on TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Public Vigilantes Brotherhood Malaysia Awards DBKL For Actually Doing Their Job

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

Malaysia’s roads are often littered with potholes that don’t get fixed as fast as we’d like, resulting in injuries and casualties.

Due to how often potholes are left unattended by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), The Brotherhood is Lando Zawawi’s answer to the potholes that sit around posing a danger to motorists and motorcyclists alike. They have fixed thousands of potholes on their own since the group’s inception in 2007.
Technically, The Brotherhood is a group of public vigilantes that have been commended for their public service in fixing the roads proactively- a job which actually falls under the responsibility of each city or the Works Department.
DBKL & Brotherhood Comes Together
Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Mahadi Che Ngah and Lando Zawawi met on 11 January 2021 over the pothole situation.
According to this post by DBKL, they had a pleasant exchange during which Lando Zawawi expressed his appreciation for City Hall’s quick responses to road damage complaints.

The souvenir exchange included the gifting of a plaque of “Most Responsive Local Authority” to DBKL from Brotherhood compared to other local authorities who they said tried to jail them.

In Brotherhood’s Facebook post on their own page, they noted that the group and DBKL has been at odds since 2012, when they began to fix the potholes that the city wouldn’t.
Lando is a bike enthusiast himself, but the conditions of the roads make riding very dangerous. His relentless motivation comes from wanting to make Kuala Lumpur a safer place to ride and avoid needless casualties as he has already lost ten personal friends due to unsafe road conditions.

Share your thoughts with us on TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Ramadan Tantrum: Quarrel at convenience store caught on camera

Ramadan is considered to be the holiest month in the Muslim calendar.
Not only is it the time where millions of devout believers patiently starve themselves from the crack of dawn till sunset….
(Pic credit – imgflip.com)
…Itâ€™s also considered a time where one would make an effort to better themselves through patience, self-reflection, recollection, and prayer.

via GIPHY
Though for some, keeping calm on an empty stomach can be.. challenging… as shown on a viral video gaining views on Twitter.

via GIPHY
The video posted by user Aiman Ariff depicts what appeared to be a quarrel between two men and a convenience store cashier in Kuala Lumpur.
In it, the two men – one in a black and the other in red – are seen to be shouting in a crowded myNews.com convenience store and asking if the cashier wants to fight them.

So this happened yesterday while was queueing up in line at MyNews Sogo.
Can we stop having embarrassing Meleis throwing public tantrum like this? pic.twitter.com/fd0l8ueqgx
â€” Aiman Ariff (@aimanariffAAK) May 26, 2019

Aiman, in a thread following the video, recounts that the issue began with a mistake by the cashier but was blown out of proportion by the customers.

Okay, so apparently the cashier made some mistake on charging them. Yes, it was the cashierâ€™s fault for that.
But, benda boleh bawak berbincang kot. Everything can be talked out like adults and be discussed like one. Without all these unnecessary scene and dramas
â€” Aiman Ariff (@aimanariffAAK) May 26, 2019

Another Twitter user claiming to be a fellow employee of the store added on that the incident occurred due to an error over a phone top-up.

just small matter. this is my outlet.. masa kejadian sy dh endshift. then, staff ni bg tau i psl cust xpuas hati. kes topup shj. staff lupa sma ada dh bg topup atau pun belum.. klau xde bole je print topup yg bru. then ttp cite.. but cust kecoh2.. kan dh jdi viral🙄
â€” Nxr Nizxh Jxne (@nizxh) May 27, 2019

Twitterjaya came together to rant on how a simple misunderstanding, which could have been solved calmly and collectively, was turned into an episode of Cerekarama.

What an attitude 😑
â€” Kesayangan Ian ❤ (@yaanarose) May 27, 2019

Nak memaki hamun dan hampir nak belasah orang hanya disebabkan beberapa ringgit
â€” A P Z (@amirulhafisz) May 26, 2019

marahnya rasa tengok video ni, even cashier salah cakap leklok la nk marah marah ingat orang takde perasaan ke, ko ni kenapa tertengking tengking pening kepala aku, gituw
â€” tyah (@tyahdelrey) May 26, 2019

Some were also quick to question why no one (especially the one
who recorded the video) had stepped in to break up argument.
But Aiman made a valid point in responding towards the so-called “criticism”.

So for those who said that why I didnâ€™t do anything to stop this?
If you were in my situation. Imagine these two men are at the peak of their rage. They were shouting potential physical threats. And and a tall mascular guy tried to stop him but, was pushed aside.
â€” Aiman Ariff (@aimanariffAAK) May 26, 2019

The minute-ish long video currently has over 200,000 views.


Landlord Reveals Worst Student Housing Problems, And Why It’s A Never-Ending Nightmare

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

University students pursuing their studies away from their hometowns face a tough housing market.

Many said they experience discrimination, high rentals and other restrictive conditions.
It seems that landlords just don’t care except about money.
A woman named Zeeda Aziz recently wrote on Facebook that she once rented out her condominium unit in Bangi, Selangor, to college students.
At that time, she was naive and good-natured and only charged the tenants with a low-security deposit and rent.
She said the house was fully furnished and bought the tenants’ mattresses.
When the college students returned to Zeeda at the end of the first semester, the house was already dilapidated.
Why Do Many Students Live Disgustingly
The horrors include dirty floors, yellow-green moss overgrown in the bathroom, and broken kitchen cabinet doors.
Zeeda, who lives out of town, was finally forced to spend a week in a hotel with her husband to clean the house back and forth.
She found cigarette packs, condoms, and rotten underwear used for meth smoking in the house, all scattered on the living room floor.

I treat this group of tenants as my own children and it’s disappointing that they are behaving irresponsibly.Landlord Zeeda Aziz on being taken for granted by her student tenants.
To make things worse, these college tenants still owe up to RM1,500 in electricity bills, and the seized mortgage is not enough to pay.
Zeeda’s story of dealing with “tenants from hell” doesn’t end there, as she continued to rent the apartment unit to another group of college students.
This time, she signed a rental agreement through a lawyer and imposed a considerable sum as a deposit.
She also stated in the agreement that the house must be returned in perfect condition.
Never Ending Nightmare
Unfortunately, 3 months later, the same incident happened to Zeeda again.
She said the tenants again turned the house into shambles with unattended garbage, dirty sinks and disgusting bathrooms.
She accused the college students of forcing her to return the deposit, by saying they came from poor families and needed the money.
I asked them, what happened to your promises? Don’t use poor people as an excuse to be irresponsible tenants.Landlord Zeeda Aziz on being taken for granted by her student tenants.
She ended up spending thousands of ringgit on repairs and refused to return the deposit to the group of college students.
Zeeda pointed out that many homeowners, including her, are afraid to rent the house to students.
Mess everywhere on the floor is a common problem for student housing. (Pix: Facebook)
Responsible Parenting
She hopes that parents, if they can, will visit their children’s rental units from time to check.
This is to ensure their children have not damaged other people’s houses and teach them to respect other people’s property even if they pay rent.
Buat mak ayah dan para pelajar yang mengeluh sebab deposit sewa sangat mahal inilah antara sebabnya.Tanyalah pengalaman pemilik rumah yang pernah sewakan pada pelajar.. Taulah macam mana keadaan rumah yang rosak teruk dikerjakan.https://t.co/JmXkWEzNbh— Mingguan Wanita (@MingguanWanita) September 20, 2022
Zeeda said the rising cases of university students who cannot rent a place to stay are not the property owner’s fault.
I’m just sharing my experience and I don’t want to take any chances. As for the students who are still looking for rental houses, I can only say ‘good luck to you. It’s all because of your seniors who left us traumatized.”Landlord Zeeda Aziz on being taken for granted by her student tenants.
Many netizens commented that they agreed, and some people shared the same experience they had.
Student tenants vandalized the house, and the seized mortgage was not enough to pay maintenance fees and water and electricity bills arrears.
Ramai pelajar B40 tidak sangka permohonan mrk ditolak/pelajar final year tak boleh menyewa. Rumah sewa mahal & tidak semua dapat sewa sbb bilangan yg terhad. Mana keadilannya? Tandatangan petisyen ini & desak UITM bertindak segera: Kaji semula kemasukan 100% pelajar ke kampus! https://t.co/65OPKXerzK— Change.org Malaysia (@ChangeOrg_MY) September 19, 2022
In addition, some people shared that they had encountered roommates in hell.
The bathroom was dirty, and the lamp tube was broken and could not be replaced because “this is the responsibility of the owner.”
The whole house is so dirty that the neighbours often complain about it.

Is There A Solution?
Property management expert Calvin Chai from Ipoh said students are often young at the beginning of their adult lives.
He pointed out that renting to them certainly has positives and negatives.
Youngsters tend to be more social, and they will throw parties and thus will generally be harder on the unit than older tenants.
Property management expert Calvin Chai. (Pix: Facebook)
Chai, whose clients include working professionals and university students, said that nine out of 10 cases often result in properties with much wear and tear at the end of the tenancy.
Sometimes they tend to be later with rent payments as they typically don’t live a life like mature adults already working and earning salaries.
These problems have been around for the longest time. But now we are hearing it more because of social media.Property management expert Calvin Chai on the prevalence of student housing problems.
Perkara ni bkn baru, apa tindkan pihak u mahupun kpt? Isu sma berulang2 tpi semua buat senyap, kebajikan pelajar bab penempatan mmg out, sewa rumah mahal, kdag2 susah cari, kdg2 jauh dari u, sepaturnya pihak u kne pastikan dorang boleh tlg carikan penempatan buat student luar— FirdausZahib (@FirdausZahib) September 14, 2022
He also noted that female students tend to be much more responsible than boys.
At the same time, Chai reminds us that each tenant may behave entirely differently.
His advice to property owners is to screen their tenants carefully or use the service of property management companies to make life easy.
It’s also better to have rental agreements that includes cleaning services, as they are generally affordable when shared among a group of students. On average, it wont cost more than RM200 per person. It would be a win-win for both property owners and the students.Porperty management expert Calvin Chai on how to handle student housing.

Share your thoughts with us via TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


This Ramen Outlet Is Perfect For Introverts Who Do Not Want To Talk To Anyone At All

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

Ippudo has just opened their first Ippudo Express outlet in Malaysia, which is also the first fully cashless and completely self-service outlet in the world.

Ippudo is mainly known for their drool-worthy ramen, and there are already a few outlets in Malaysia. However, the Express outlet in Damansara Uptown is a new dining experience altogether.
Ippudo Express celebrates their grand opening in Damansara Uptown.(Credit: Anne Dorall/TRP)
No Cash, No Service
The main thing about Ippudo Express is that there is no cashier counter and you pay first. At the entrance, there are two Kiosk stations for you to make your order. Alternatively, if you have the Ippudo mobile app, you can order from there or from the QR code menu on each table.
Left: A touchscreen order menu. Only cashless payment is accepted, such as credit cards, QR Pay, or e-wallets. Right: The Express Pick Up window for when you’re in a rush elsewhere.(Credit: Anne Dorall/TRP)
The Ippudo Express has a surprisingly extensive menu. Most of what is available in their main stores are also available here.
They even have a few ramen flavours that is exclusive to the Express outlet, such as the Shiro-Bomb flavours.
The user interface is simple and easy to understand. Noodles come with a choice of doneness, from very firm to normal to soft.
Payment is fully cashless, so have your debit/credit cards or ewallets or QR Pay ready. Once paid, take your receipt and head indoors.
An Introvert’s Dream
The restaurant is nicely lit with simple modern aesthetics. Half the shop is the open kitchen, so customers can watch the chefs prepare their ramen through the glass. Bar seats are perfect for single customers who are just here to eat.
The interior of the shop. To the left are tables if you come with friend, to the right are bar seats that overlooks the kitchen for people who just aren’t up for socializing.(Credit: Ippudo Malaysia)
Your order number will flash on a screen once it’s done. Just head over to the window and pick up your ramen.
When your order number is ready, pick up your ramen at the window. There are additional condiments like sesame seeds and chili powder you can add at your leisure.(Credit: Anne Dorall/TRP)
Since the outlet just only opened a few days ago, there are still support service staff from other outlets to greet customers. However, they will only be here temporarily. The main point of Ippudo Express is a self-service concept, after all.
Delicious Ramen, Now Cheaper
Dig in to the ramen while it’s still hot.
The portion here is not small.(Credit: Anne Dorall/TRP)
If you ordered the Shiro-Bomb, it’s basically a flavoured miso ball in your tonkotsu broth. However, the balance of flavours is impeccable, deeply savoury and rich without being overwhelming.
The tonkotsu is packed with the richness of pork bones and lard, yet light enough to make you want more.
The broth is rich and packed with umami. You will want to finish every drop!(Credit: Anne Dorall/TRP)
The chashu slices are deceptively tender and melts in your mouth. Pair them together with springy ramen noodles and it is a satisfying bite after satisfying bite.
The additional perk of having a self-service outlet is that there is no service charge. This means your ramen is cheaper than at other Ippudo restaurants. In the near future, Ippudo Express will also have ramen offerings in a lower price range.
Currently, a single bowl of ramen will set you back around RM35, which isn’t the cheapest.
However, if you need a really good, piping hot bowl of ramen to cheer yourself up without any of the required smiling and socialisation when you eat out, why not give Ippudo Express a shot?
Location
No. 37-G (Ground Floor, Jalan SS 21/60, Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Operating Hours
11am-10pm daily

Share your thoughts with us via TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


“Celebrating Batik Day On World Disability Day Marginalises OKU Community” Netizens Say

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

On 1 December, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced 3 December as the annual Malaysia Batik Day.

The special day hopes to encourage the multiracial rakyat to unite and wear the Malaysian batik with pride, in line with the Keluarga Malaysia theme.
The move hopes to strengthen the country’s local batik craft industry and the batik production chain in the country too.
The date was also chosen as a tribute to Endon Mahmood, the late wife of fifth prime minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who had promoted Malaysia’s batik industry to the world.
On 3 December 2003, Endon showcased local batik designs in Europe and succeeded in bringing batik to the world stage.
Not everyone is happy about it
While it all sounds good at first, not everyone is pleased with the announcement because 3 December is also the International Day of Disabled Persons 2021 or also known as the World Disability Day.
A Twitter user Nara Al-Shabab said celebrating Malaysia Batik Day on the same day marginalises the local disabled community even more.
She added that she understands that batik is part of the Malaysian culture but questioned why they couldn’t choose another date.
Excuse me? Overlapping with Hari OKU? Seriously? SERIOUSLY? As if we aren’t marginalised enough? https://t.co/jgrYg6iTZH— Nara Al-Shahab ♿🇲🇾 #justiceforbella (@nara_shahab) December 1, 2021
AMANAH party member Anfaal Saari also supports the notion to choose another date for Batik Day, with respect for the disabled community.
3 Disember ialah Hari OKU Sedunia. Mohon @IsmailSabri60 lebih peka sebelum umum.Kewujudan Hari OKU Sedunia ini untuk memberi kesedaran tentang kebajikan OKU. Penting. Seluruh jentera kerajaan perlu fokus.Pilih tarikh lain untuk Hari Batik Malaysia. https://t.co/2GwaLOwg75— Anfaal Saari 🏴 🇲🇾 (@anfaalsaari) December 1, 2021
Another netizen pointed out that there are so many other dates to choose from for Malaysia Batik Day.
Punyalah bersepah tarikh kosong. 3dec gak dia ambik utk hari batik. Kesian dkt warga oku 😑— MrAidilz . C.A (@MaidilShz) December 2, 2021
That said, there have also been debates about the origins of batik.
While batik originated in Indonesia, batik variations can also be found in other parts of Southeast Asia including Malaysia.
READ MORE: Why Is China Claiming Batik, And Where Did It Come From Anyway?

Share your thoughts with us via TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Slain Man In Sungai Petani Was Newly Promoted As Triad Leader

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

Murali Shunmugam, 36, was shot dead at point-blank range in Sungai Petani, Kedah, on 25 May while his wife and young child bore witness.

He was approached by four men on two motorcycles and shot about 8 times in the head and body.
READ MORE: Man Shot Dead Outside Sungai Petani Restaurant, Witnessed By Wife And Young Kid
According to New Straits Times, the victim was allegedly a triad leader who had just claimed the top position in the underworld gang recently.
This was uncovered after police detained his friend who accompanied the victim and his family to buy lunch from the restaurant in Jalan Kampung Baru.
The 34-year-old friend admitted that he’s also a member of the triad.
He categorically denied his involvement in the shooting incident despite being at the location during the incident.A source told NST
In light of this information, the police were probing whether the assassination was triggered by a power struggle within the gang or dissatisfaction among disgruntled members.
We are also not discounting other possibilities such as turf war or a revenge act among triad gangs.Another source who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Kedah Criminal Investigation Department chief Datuk G. Suresh Kumar confirmed the arrest of Murali’s friend but declined to comment as investigations were underway.

Share your thoughts with us via TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Malaysian Paralympic Athletes Off To Dubai To Compete In World Para Athletics Grand Prix

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

Maszlee Malik, former minister of education sent his best wishes to the paralympic athletes who are leaving for Dubai today.

https://twitter.com/maszlee/status/1628197254644535296?t=r2qJ-shVsFRS39PfaBaWkg&s=08

The athletes are going to take part in the World Para Athletics Grand Prix. The competition will see events taking place in six cities across four continents from February to May.
The event that is taking place in Dubai is the second event of the competition and is known as the Dubai 2023 Grand Prix – 14th Fazza International Championships.
This event will take place from 26 February to 1 March 2023.
Our country has produced many talented paralympic athletes. Their performance at the 2016 Rio Olympics was remarkable. They came back with three gold medals and also breaking the paralympic records for 100 meters, shot put and long jump.
They also showed a phenomenal performance in the 2021 Tokyo Paralympics.
The New Straits Times reported that they brought honour to our country with their best achievement in the competition by earning three golds and two silvers.
For the current competition, Mohamad Ridzuan also known as ‘Dek Wan’ won the 100m T35/36 (physical impairment) with a record of 12.51s in the first event at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix which took place in Tunisia, as reported by Malay Mail.
With such amazing achievements, they deserve more recognition and support.
Recently, former paralympian Kok Lee Peng was seen selling tissues by the roadside.
Read More: Former Paralympic Athlete Now Selling Tissue Covers In Bukit Bintang, Netizens Heartbroken
We wish the Paralympic athletes all the best in the competition and hope that they are celebrated just like the other athletes in our country.

Share your thoughts with us via TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Out-Of-Date MySejahtera Not An Offense But Be Responsible And Update Regularly, Says Ismail Sabri

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

While failing to update your MySejahtera status isn’t an offence, you should take do the responsible thing and update it regularly according to Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri.

He said this is because the application was created by the government to assist in controlling the spread of infection and to allow users to perform health evaluations, based on reports from The Star.
As such, the application is not just used to scan codes so that we can enter a place. Also important is that the status is updated constantly, depending on our daily activities and movement.Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri via The Star
Ismail also urged users to submit truthful information especially when it came to symptoms.
He also touched the confusion which led to the recent compounds, urging all enforcement agents to not misinterpret the standard operating procedures (SOP).
Malay Mail also quoted National Security Council (MKN) Director-General Datuk Mohd Rabin Basir who said that there is no need to update your status daily with four exceptions, which are:
those who start to develop Covid-19 symptomstraveled overseashad contact with a Covid-19 patienthave been diagnosed with Covid-19
Police decide to cancel compounds
The police have decided to cancel the compounds issued to an oil and gas company in Setiawan on Saturday for not updating their health status in MySejahtera.
Bernama quoted Perak Police Chief Datuk Mior Faridalathrash Wahid who said that there was a confusion over the offences.
It was reported that 29 workers of an oil and gas company were issued compounds of RM2,000 each, while two workers were slapped with RM1,500 fine each for not updating their MySejahtera when entering their workplace.
Meanwhile, a 54-year-old man was also compounded RM20,000 for organising a gathering which involved 27 participants.

Share your thoughts with us on TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Friendly Employee Recognized As 7-Eleven ‘Hero’ After Viral Praise

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

Last week, a Twitter user Shafiqah Othman (@sfqomhz) tweeted about Alamin Khan, the friendly 7-Eleven employee at Jalan Bazar, Bukit Jelutong.

Unsurprisingly, other customers shared the same sentiments and had lots of praise for the extremely good service by Alamin.
READ MORE: Netizens Praise This 7-Eleven Employee In Bukit Jelutong For Always Making Their Day Better
Othman recently shared an update in her LinkedIn to share her happiness that Alamin has been rewarded by 7-Eleven for never failing to make sure customers leave the store with a smile.
On 9 November, delegates from 7-Eleven went down to the particular branch to acknowledge and congratulate Alamin’s efforts at work.
The Facebook post by Kamarudzaman Sanusi showed Alamin beaming with his rewards.

Based on the pictures, it looks like Alamin was rewarded with a certificate of appreciation and a bag of goodies.
Netizens joined in the congratulations and shared that everyone should show appreciation to employees more.
“Well deserved Alamin Khan, keep it up the good performance!” a netizen commented on Facebook.
Alamin also replied to the comment above, writing “Thank you so much mam but I miss you today. I hope that you’re [with us]”

“This is awesome. Well done on this 🙂 Hope it inspires more organisations to appreciate the hard work their employees have put into their work,” someone commented on LinkedIn.
“Nice. We need to appreciate them a lot,” a netizen wrote on LinkedIn.

Amidst the sudden fame, Alamin thanked Shafiqah Othman for tweeting about him in the first place.
“Thank you so much for appreciating my work and really I am so happy to see your tweet about me. You are the best and [because of] you, I got [a] certificate from 7-Eleven that I am the hero off 7-Eleven now,” he wrote on Facebook.

Keep up the good work, Alamin!

Express your thoughts on TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Golden Memories: Let This Biscuit Take You Back To Your Childhood

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

When I reflect on fond memories throughout my life, a lot of them include food in one way or another. Most of us have a memory of a snack that takes us back to childhood. It can be a candy bar that we used to get as a treat or a slice of chocolate cake recalling your first baking disaster. No matter the importance, memories involving food are vivid – and they sometimes feel more evocative than other types of memories.

(Credit: Mikhael Nilov/Ekrulila via Pexels)
Science figured out that eating something nostalgic actually triggers the hippocampus, a part of our brain that is particularly important for forming long-term memories.
Food is proven to take us back to some of the most important parts of our lives, but the simple joy of biting into something that we are so familiar with is priceless.
A childhood candy resampled years later can unleash a cornucopia of memories. Candy and food, in general, are of course not unique in their ability to promote a mnemonic cascade. However, our evolved psychology may make food one of the more likely things in the environment around which memories are formed and focused.The Harvard University Press on John S. Allen’s The Omnivorous Mind.
Golden Goodness
Julie’s Biscuits have been a staple for Malaysian households for many years now. We grew up with the little blonde girl in pigtails being a huge part of our lives. In 2020, the company rebranded to a younger-looking Julie in a shorter bob-haircut, red and blue headband with a forward and an upward look of certainty, reinventing her appeal with new generation consumers.
However, the taste and quality of Julie’s biscuits remain unchanged and continues to be a favourite.
(Credit: foodie_mxy/spread_love_food via Instagram)
The sole founder, Su Chin Hock, realised that the local market was saturated with traditional biscuit brands. In order to be memorable, he renamed the brand to Julie’s, a fairly common name that’s easy to remember.
And evidently, hard to forget.
Since 1985, Julie’s heritage-rich background and reputation built on quality and taste has been deeply rooted in the heart of every Malaysian. Rich and fragrant peanut butter cream paired with crispy, golden baked and lightly salted round crackers – these biscuits not only take me back to carefree times with schoolmates and tea time chatter with family, but they still taste so good.
For as long as our 38 years of establishment, our Peanut Butter Sandwich Biscuit has always been a legacy, a must-have biscuit and snack in many Malaysians’ households. The aroma that emits from every packaging opened is iconic and ignites fond memories.Tzy Horng Sai, Director of Julie’s Biscuits.
But, what if you could win ACTUAL gold while enjoying this golden-baked goodness?
Nak Emas!
(Credits: Julie’s Malaysia)
This July, Julie celebrates her 38th anniversary with an exciting I ‘NUT’ Emas contest!
Inspired by the Peanut Butter Sandwich Biscuit’s shape and gold-like appearance, the Julie’s I ‘NUT’ EMAS contest is a playful homophonous to the Bahasa Malaysia term ‘I WANT GOLD’. It is the brand’s fun way to incorporate the word ‘nut’ from ‘peanut’ and ‘want’ (‘nak’ in Bahasa Malaysia) into a tagline that all Malaysians could relate to.
With any purchase of Julie’s Peanut Butter Sandwich pack worth RM5 or more, you stand a chance to win a 100g gold worth RM30,000. Other amazing prizes include 10g gold worth RM3,000 and Touch ‘n Go e-Wallet credits worth RM85.
Simply purchase Julie’s Peanut Butter Sandwich worth RM5 and above, and upload and submit the receipt here. You can also scan the QR code from point-of-sales material (e.g. poster) to submit the receipt photo.
So, if you nak emas, pick up a pack of Julie’s Peanut Butter Sandwiches throughout the I ‘NUT’ Emas contest which runs from the 1st of July to 15th of August 2022. You’ll stand a higher chance of winning if you purchase more biscuits with separate receipts.
Don’t miss out on this golden opportunity! Find out more about Julie’s I ‘NUT’ Emas contest here!
#INutEmas #JuliesBiscuits #JuliesPeanutButterSandwich

Share your thoughts with us via TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


PM Expected To Share Good News Before Raya, What Can It Be?

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is expected to share good news before Hari Raya Aidilfitri this year.

Local Government Development Minister Nga Kor Ming mentioned this on his official Twitter last night.
Kerajaan perpaduan akan membawa satu lagi berita baik yang bakal diumumkan oleh YAB PM @anwaribrahim menjelang Hari Raya Aidilfitri tahun ini. Stay tuned! @kpkt_gov #MalaysiaMADANI pic.twitter.com/mssxk5cQcU— Nga Kor Ming (@NgaKorMing) April 11, 2023
Everyone is still kept in the dark as to what it is and this prompted netizens to come up with various theories.
Netizens hoped that Anwar will announce free tolls during the Raya celebrations and extra holidays. A netizen specifically asked for Friday to be a public holiday.
On the other hand, some asked for more holidays instead of free tolls because they don’t want to put up with heavy traffic.
They also reminded the government to make the extra public holiday announcement early. This is perhaps so everyone could plan their travels and stays ahead.
Some kept their wish modest and asked for the government to lower the price of chickens and eggs.
A netizen jokingly said maybe the other shoe finally drops and the public will receive news of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak going free and the case against the current deputy prime minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi will be dropped.
Whatever it is, netizens are intrigued and time will tell if the anticipation is worth it.
READ MORE: Anwar Says Extra National Holiday And 4 Days Of Free Tolls For Raya
tol percuma atau cuti raya tambahan supaya semua dpt balik awal ke kg halaman… 😊— mizz_piscess (@mizz_piscess) April 12, 2023
Najib bebas & Kes Zahid semua digugurkan kah ? Xde Berita Naik lain la rakyat nk keluar kwsp kena label walaun— Jamal Zabidin (@JZabidin) April 11, 2023
Kes TPM akan digugurkan sepenuhnya.— hj.muzafar (@HjMuzafar) April 11, 2023
Tambah cuti raya. Takmo tol free. Tambah jem je nanti— KAKI TRAVEL EDAZZRICH🚢🛳✈ (@edazzrich) April 12, 2023
Jumaat public holiday la come on😆— Muiz Johari (@muizOfficial) April 12, 2023
Kalau nak umum cuti extra umum awal2 YB🙏 Kalau tol free bagi lama sikit..— Rashid (@Rashid_sideku) April 12, 2023
Harga ayam dan telur turun?— Nur Natasha Lee (@NurNatashaLee2) April 11, 2023
Wow..this is great news ..very excited dan can’t wait.All the best YB👍👍— Adra Jasmine (@adra_1414) April 12, 2023

Share your thoughts with us on TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Online Workshops Aim To Mentor And Upskill Malaysian Women

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates and stories.

The MCO has affected women disproportionately, with many facing poverty as their income has been affected while they continue to be responsible for costs of raising a family and young children.

However, there are still opportunities for women out there to upskill and improve. In fact, Maggi’s latest programme is aimed specifically at helping Malaysian women upskill themselves at home and in their career.
The Program Mentor Wanita Cukup Berani is organised in collaboration with Google Malaysia’s Women Will program, and features a series of online workshops focused on building self-confidence, improving business skills through digital upskilling, and enhancing cooking skills for a well-balanced improvement in both career and at home.
The first series of these free online workshops will start from September 1st to 3rd, and the next sessions will be on October 20th to 22nd.
Additionally, 3 of 20 shortlisted participants will be selected to participate in a one-on-one mentorship programme with either Datin Paduka Eina Azman, Sheila Rusly, or Anne Idris, who will guide them on their entrepreneurial journey.
It’s an opportunity for women to improve and get ahead in life for a better future. For more information or to sign up for the free online workshops, visit the website here.

Have you tried upskilling for a more competitive edge? Share your thoughts on TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Litterbugs At Unity Gov National Convention In WTCKL Draw Criticism

Subscribe to our Telegram channel or follow us on the Lumi News app for the latest stories and updates.

The Unity Government National Convention kicked off on 14 May 2023 at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur with leaders and representatives from 19 political parties converging in an effort to foster stronger cooperation.

According to reports, the convention started with the Unity Government National Women Convention and the Unity Government Pemuda Puteri National Convention, which were held simultaneously at 10am.
The itinerary included:

Bicara Rakyat, a forum to discuss the commitment to solve the people’s issues and the implementation of the people’s agenda in three sessions: Empowering the People’s Economy, Nation Building, and Malaysia Madani.
The highlight of the convention, themed ‘Madani: Mewajahi Masa Depan Malaysia,’ is a keynote address by the Unity Government Secretariat Chairman, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Previously, Anwar said the convention’s aim was to determine a common direction and course of action in the country’s administration, in addition to framing the same thinking and policy among the parties in the Unity Government.
Litterbugs in attendance
While the convention started off well enough, a few attendees have started to report on the litterbugs in the convention hall.
Twitter user Rahmat Amran (@rahmat_amran) posted a picture showing the mess left behind by attendees, comprised of politicians from various parties.
There were pamphlets, papers, and water bottles strewn all over the floor in the hall. No one seemed to bother picking the rubbish up.
Rahmat lamented that the “littering” habit was the same across the board whether it’s the old or new government, the current government or the Opposition parties.
He urged politicians and members of political parties to stop littering publicly.
In another Twitter post by Shahrizal Denci (@DenciShahrizal), the Malaysian flag and a few political party flags could also be seen on the floor along with the other papers and plastic wrappers.
Kerajaan baru, mentaliti lama Rata-rata yang penuhkan dewan ni tadi, ahli-ahli parti politikTak kisah kau parti mana pun, merah biru, hijau, oren, putih, hitamKerajaan ke, pembangkang ke Kat mana-mana pun, tolong lah jangan tinggal sampah bersepah #MalaysiaMadani pic.twitter.com/uAznzobELK— Rahmat Amran 🏴 (@rahmat_amran) May 14, 2023
Cantik pamphlet semalam, saya simpan termasuk bendera. Mungkin orang lain tidak seperti saya. Mengubah negara kena bermula dengan setiap individu jangan tinggalkan sampah. pic.twitter.com/OBH0qWRdmH— Shahrizal Denci 🇲🇾 (@DenciShahrizal) May 15, 2023
Netizens agreed that the littering “culture” among Malaysians is terrible and wondered when Malaysians will start behaving like the Japanese. The Japanese people have been known to help pick up and clean up public areas even when they attend events abroad.
A netizen advised others to bring their own trash bag and the practice of disposing trash properly should start from home. Some wondered if it was that difficult to momentarily hold their own trash until they find a dustbin.
Meanwhile, another person said using QR codes to distribute pamphlets might be the best way to go in the future to reduce waste and prevent litter.
What irked a lot of people was seeing the Malaysian flag being left on the floor. They found the act disrespectful to the country. It was also ironic since the convention was part of the effort to rebuild Malaysia better.
The littering habit among Malaysians is not a new phenomenon and has been reoccurring despite all the public service announcements and education over the years.
Hopefully, the bad habit will be eradicated but the question is still how and when.
Entah bilalah rakyat Malaysia ni nak jadi macam rakyat Jepun. Semua benda dia pakat angkut dan buang dalam tong sampah kalau tak nak.— Nour_H. Othman (@nour_smz) May 15, 2023
As simple as bring your own trash would be perfect example and I think it should start from home / parents as an example for next generation to get better. Scoring A for Civic/Moral/Religious studies do not mean anything of application is ZERO— 🙏#StaySafeEveryone#🙏 (@m_kumaresan) May 15, 2023
@anwaribrahim this is unaccpectable. Malaysia flag is on the groundMcm mana nie? Bendera Malaysia patut dijulang. Bukan dibiarkan di lantaiLebih afdal, jgn bagi bendera Malaysia kalo delegasi yg datang tu rata2 akal cetekThey have put Malaysia pride on the ground. Memalukan— Manjit Singh (@ManjitSinghG5) May 15, 2023
Sedih melihat Jalur Gemilang, lambang Kedaulatan Negara Dan Bangsa dilantai. Tiada Madani, jika tiada rasa Hormat Dan Kecintaan pada Negara Dan Bangsa.— Amin (@draminmuslan) May 15, 2023
Jalur gemilang bendera Malaysia dibiar berada di lantai begitu… Mana hormatnya ?— Mr.Adan (@MrAdan177707) May 15, 2023
I heard a convention once used QR codes to give access to their pamphlets. Tak wasteful.— uya anilahs (@Sarclover) May 15, 2023
Orang dah tak guna kertas buat buku/pamphlet apa semua ler! Guna QRcode dah sekarang!! Lagi murah dari buat buku/pamphlet!— Encik Perasaan 🇲🇾 (@eeeooonnneee) May 15, 2023
Walaupun tak nak simpan, susah sangat ke diorang ni nak pegang sekejap sampi jumpa tong sampah and buang? Or at least letak mana2 meja. Tak faham.— nanyabisnes (@umightnotknowme) May 15, 2023
Kenapa ye orang Malaysia susah sangat nak membudayakan kebersihan. Benda ni asas dan mudah. Tak berat pun sampai boleh mengancam buah pinggang rosak. Haishh benda benda mudah pun susah nak buat— FZ (@TheFZack) May 15, 2023

Share your thoughts with us via TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Fire in University Malaya this morning, economics faculty building damaged [Video]

A fire broke out early this morning (27th August) at University Malaya.
According to Bernama, the Fire and Rescue Department (bomba) received a call at 1.20 am when flames were spotted at a building in the universityâ€™s Faculty of Economics and Administration (FEP).

Overview of Faculty of Economics and Administration (FEP)(Credit: University Malaya)

By the time the firemen arrived, the fire was ravaging the
lecturerâ€™s offices on the third floor of the building.

Credit: Facebook

The valiant efforts of 29 fire and rescue personnel resulted in the fire under control 1.53 am and extinguished at 2.40 am before further damage was inflicted.
Thankfully, no one was harmed in the early morning raze.

 Credit: Facebook

However, the lecturerâ€™s offices were almost completely destroyed as the third floor was nearly 100% damaged by the fire.
The fire had also inflicted damage to the second floor of the building.
The University Malaya Week of Welcome Facebook page stated that the cause of the fire was a short circuit on the third floor.
Watch the video of the fire below:


“You Can Try Cannabis In Thailand But Don’t Bring It Back” Cops Tell Malaysian Tourists

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

While some Malaysian might want to try consuming cannabis (ganja) during their visit to Thailand, the Perlis police chief warns Malaysians not to bring home the substance or they would face legal consequences.

Deputy Commissioner Surina Saad said action will be taken against any individual who brings cannabis into the country even if the substance is included in food like little cakes and drinks.
We don’t have the power to prevent anyone from touring the neighbouring country and taking cannabis there but legal action can be taken under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 if returning with cannabis or under the influence of the drug.Perlis police chief Deputy Commissioner Surina Saad
According to The Star, agencies at the border have been asked to increase inspections to ensure no one would bring any psychoactive drugs such as cannabis into Malaysia.
Mathew Schwartz/Unsplash/Clipart.info
Medical marijuana in Malaysia
Recreational use of marijuana in Malaysia is still punishable under law. However, steps have been taken to allow the use of medical marijuana in the nation (soon) based on evidence-based policies.
Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said that a framework to register certain cannabidiol (CBD) products will be released next year.
READ MORE: Khairy: Framework To Register Certain Medical Marijuana Products By Next Year
It’s legal in Thailand
Thailand legalised the consumption of cannabis for medical use in 2019 and is the first Southeast Asian nation to do so.
READ MORE: Ganja Is No Longer A Narcotic Substance In Thailand
Back in May 2022, the Thai government gave away one million cannabis trees so that each household can grow the plant at home.
The free cannabis plant programme is Thailand’s latest bid to promote cannabis as a cash crop among its citizens.
READ MORE: Thai Govt To Give Away 1 Million Cannabis Plants To Their Citizens Following New Law Amendments
According to The Star, the Thai authorities manage the recreational use of marijuana by limiting the strength of the products for sale.

Share your thoughts with us via TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Covid-19: 1,755 New Cases Today, Highest Ever Recorded In A Day

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

Malaysia has again broken it’s record of the most new Covid-19 cases recorded in a day with 1,755 new cases today, only 3 of them imported cases.

Previously, the most new cases ever recorded was on 26 October when 1,240 new cases were detected.
Of the 3 states with the most new cases, Sabah recorded 1,199 new cases, Penang had 192 and Selangor had 164.
There were also 2 more deaths, and 3 new clusters detected.
However, 736 patients have recovered from the illness and 3 clusters have ended.

https://twitter.com/KKMPutrajaya/status/1324663507388825600

Share your thoughts with us on TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


‘Datuk’ Among Questioned By Police Over Nasi Ganja Helicopter Takeaway

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

Police have taken statements from several individuals, including a ‘Datuk’, in connection with the helicopter that had landed in the middle of the Padang Ipoh public field in Perak on Friday (23 July).

The chopper was reportedly there in order to pick up an order of Nasi Ganja (36 packs in total) to be flown over to customers in Kuala Lumpur.
(Credit: YouTube)
Perak Police Chief Datuk Mior Faridalatrash Wahid said that everyone involved in the incident had been identified.
According to the Ipoh Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), the chopper did not have permission to land at the field.
Read More: Perak Police Investigating Nasi Ganja Fly-By Incident
Flying sales
With news of the flying nasi ganja delivery service, people in Ipoh have reportedly been crowding local restaurants in order to get their fix of the sky-high cuisine.
New Straits Times quoted the owner of the popular Yong Suan Coffee Shop along Jalan Yang Kalsom saying that business has been soaring since the incident.
Regular crowds at the store prior to the pandemic.(Credit: ipohfoods via Instagram)
Despite the mystery surrounding who was behind the helicopter delivery service, people were still eager to line up for their favourite dish.
I have also received a number of calls from my family, friends and regular customers who asked me who was the person who bought the ‘nasi ganja’ and had them delivered by helicopter. To be honest, I don’t know.Mohd Nihmathullah Syed Mustaffah owner of Yong Suan Coffee Shop via New Straits Times

Share your thoughts with us via TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Source:
Long queue at Ipoh 'nasi ganja' outlet after helicopter delivery incident
'Datuk' antara dipanggil beri keterangan isu helikopter, nasi ganja


The Asian Squatting Way Of Using Toilets Is Actually Better Than Sitting

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

Anyone who’s been to or lives in Asia will have at some point (or maybe even on a daily basis) be forced to use a squatting toilet.
Some people think that going in such a position is a backward, dirty and demeaning practice, while others prefer the squatting toilet for its naturalist approach to bowel movements, believing that it’s also a lot cleaner.
Either way, it turns out that the way our Asian grandparents have been using to relieve themselves is actually the more superior method.
First, we had holes
Ruin’s of a public toilet in Italy. (Credit: Technobob)
Before the flushing toilet we use today, toilets were a collection of outhouses, chamber pots, and holes in the ground – all methods that required a squatting position.
In the 12th-century, monks started to build stone and wooden lavatories over rivers and seas, with a shaft leading down into the water.
The first bathrooms were also built around these times. In the west, castles were built with tiny rooms known as garderobe that were not much more than small bottomless rooms that protruded from the castle walls.
(Credit: Smithsonian Magazine)
The name garderobe is thought to come from hanging your robes inside this room to allow the ammonia from urine to guard your clothes from fleas.
Then, we too sat on thrones
(Credit: ZME Science)
The first modern flushable toilet is believed to have been invented in 1596 by a man called John Harington. Harington designed a 2-feet-deep oval bowl waterproofed with pitch, resin, and wax.
His name is also attributed to the practice of calling the men’s room the John.
Fun fact: Kit Harington, a.k.a Jon Snow of Game of Thrones is related to John Harington!
A water tank placed above the bowl would send water into it to flush faeces and urine away. A working model of this design was installed for his godmother, Queen Elizabeth I, in Richmond Palace.
The actual design of the first-ever flushable toilet. (Credit: Toilet Guru)
Anyway, in this sense, it was understood that rich people had toilets they could sit on in bathrooms, while the poorer people would make do with squatting over a hole in the ground.
Eventually, the design of the toilet was patented (in 1775 by another English inventor). And then, a plumbing expert named Thomas Crapper manufactured one of the first successful lines of flush toilets.
Crapper’s name became synonymous with his product because the Crapper brand was printed on each and every one of his toilets (though it might be important to note that the word crap predates Thomas Crapper’s existence by centuries).
(Credit: The Conversation)
After this, flushing toilets you could sit on became more and more accessible until it became the norm that we see today. However, the modern toilet is now suspected to be partly to blame for problems like haemorrhoids and constipation.
It’s a process
(Credit: NIDDK)
For you to understand why squatting is better, you must first know how the digestion process works.
As food moves from your stomach to your small intestine, digestive juices break it all down. Nutrients from the food move through the wall of your small intestine into your bloodstream. Then the leftover waste mixes with water in your large intestine to form stool.
(Credit: 123RF)
Stool stays in your rectum until you’re ready to go. A U-shaped muscle called the puborectalis which wraps around the rectum keeps the lower part of your bowel bent to hold the stool inside and keep you from having an embarrassing accident. Kind of like how a kink in a garden hose prevents water from getting out.
When the call of nature beckons you, your rectum contracts, the puborectalis relaxes and the stool is released from your body.
Squatting is actually superior

So, scientists believe that the problem with sitting is that it keeps the kink in your lower bowel from straightening out. This forces you to work harder to push everything out.
Squatting, meanwhile, allows your puborectalis to relax and straightens out your colon, giving your stool a straight route out. This means that evacuation is faster, much much easier, involves less straining and empties the bowels more completely.
X-rays taken during studies show that the rectum does indeed straighten out more when you squat. On top of this, the pressure in the belly also lowers while in this position, which could signal a lot less straining.
By making defecation easier, squatting is believed to also ease constipation and prevent haemorrhoids, which is often a result of straining.
Statistics also suggest that people in Asian and African countries that still use squatting toilets have lower rates of both conditions.
How to start squatting
(Credit: eBay)
Now that we know squatting is better, how do all of us do it more often? Especially when the toilets we use at home are the sitting kind.
Well, all you need to evacuate that stool, is a stool.
Position a stool in front of your toilet so that you can place both feet on it when go. This raises your feet and knees to a higher position that is as close to a squat without actually having to squat.
This method is also suitable for those who don’t like the idea of using a squatting toilet or can’t do so comfortably, due to old age or bowel movement issues.
Enjoy learning about the best pooping methods? Read our article about how Westerners are only just realising that washing with water is better than using tissue here.

Share your thoughts with us via TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Malaysian Athletes Given The Green Light To Restart Training For Tokyo 2021

Subscribe to our new Telegram channel for the latest updates on Covid-19 and other issues.

Athletes competing for the Olympic Games in Tokyo have been granted special permission to resume their training sessions but will have to undergo strict procedures to ensure their safety.
The government has allowed 265 individuals, including 57 athletes to prepare for the quadrennial international tournament which starts on 23 July.
These athletes and personnel will be segregated in three training camps – Bukit Jalil Sports Complex (181 individuals), Malaysian Badminton Academy in Mont Kiara (56 individuals) and the National Sailboat Training Program in Langkawi (26 individuals).
The camps will start training on 1 June until 30 June and during the registration day, Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said, the personnel will be tested and will only be allowed to proceed if they’re negative.
 Those who are found positive will be taken to the hospital for further care.
He said the Ministry of Youth and Sports will be taking the quarantine approach throughout the 30 days where once they’re in these locations, these individuals will not be allowed to go out.
At the end of the month of June, Ismail said the athletes and other personnel will undergo another swab test.
Ismail also said during these training sessions, athletes must adhere to the preventive measures such as social distancing.
The Olympics in Tokyo was slated to begin in 2020 but was postponed to 2021 after the spread of Covid-19 has halted all international sporting events including football’s UEFA Champions League and the French Open, one of the premier events in tennis.

Get the latest COVID-19 updates on TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram


One Step Further Into Europe; Mr DIY Opens In Spain

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

Malaysian home improvement retailer Mr DIY is now open for business in Madrid, Spain.

The opening marked a milestone for Mr DIY as Spain is its tenth market.
Accordingly, Mr DIY will compete with the bazaar stores in Spain.
Mr DIY will replicate its Malaysian model where it serves more than 80 million customers in its stores, which measure 1,000 square meters on average.

The latest move cemented Mr DIY’s foothold in the Europan Union (EU), an attractive market to do business with its 500 million consumers.
Conchi Porras Fernández, whose LinkedIn account shows a two-decade career in retail, joined as a chief operating officer in August 2021.
Meanwhile, business development director Ricardo Gomez Frank had a month-long stint in Mr DIY’s Indonesia office before joining the Spanish team in July, his LinkedIn page shows.
The Spanish venture comes on the heels of Mr DIY’s entry into Turkey.
Mr DIY opened its first store in Istanbul in November last year.
READ MORE: Malaysia’s Mr DIY Opens First Store In Europe
A Mr DIY store in Turkey. (Source: Facebook)
It started a second outlet on 9 December and has several stores in Turkey presently, including in capital city Ankara.
Established in Malaysia in 2005, Mr DIY expanded to Thailand, Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, the Philippines, Cambodia, and India.
Mr DIY is traded on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad and is currently valued at RM22.23 billion.
Mr DIY debuted in October 2020 with the issue price of RM1.60 per share.
It was last traded at RM3.54.

Share your thoughts with us via TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


These 5 Major Roads in Petaling Jaya Are Closed From Friday

Subscribe to our new Telegram channel for the latest updates on Covid-19 and other issues.

With Selangor recording over 1,000 positive Covid-19 cases, movement will be further restricted to contain the spread of the virus.
Beginning midnight on Friday (10th April), 5 major roads in Petaling Jaya will be closed following the Movement Control Order (MCO).
Penchala Link towards Damansara slip road into Mutiara Damansara and Damansara PerdanaLebuhraya Damansara Puchong (LDP) slip road into Mutiara Damansara and Damansara Perdana.LDP slip road into Jalan PJU 8/8 Flora DamansaraLDP exit to Jalan PJU 7/8Traffic light at Jalan PJU 8/1 Damansara Perdana slip road to Penchala Link and Kepong.
Areas affected by the road closures in Petaling Jaya.(Screenshot from Google Maps)
Bernama reports that Damansara Perdana remains connected to Penchala Link via Jalan PJU 7/9 Mutiara Damansara, and to Persiaran Surian via Jalan PJU 7/1 Mutiara Damansara.
A roadblock will also be added at Jalan PJU 7/1 Mutiara Damansara, alongside current roadblocks at kilometer 0.3 Lebuhraya SPRINT towards Damansara Toll Plaza and Pelangi Damansara, Persiaran Surian.
The road closures and road blocks are expected to be in place until the end of MCO on 14th April.

Let us know if youâ€™re affected by these road closures on TRPâ€™s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Source:
Closure of five major roads in Petaling Jaya from Friday


Prime Minister Announces RM150 Billion PEMULIH Recovery Plan

Subscribe to our new Telegram channel for the latest updates and stories.

Prime Minister Tan Sri Mahiaddin Md Yasin today announced the RM150 billion Rakyat Protection and Economic Recovery Package (PEMULIH) as Malaysia continues to remain in lockdown under Phase 1 of the National Recovery Plan.

READ MORE: There Are 4 Phases Planned For The Country To Recover From Covid-19
The total value of the PEMULIH package is RM 150 billion ringgit and includes the government’s direct fiscal injection of 10 billion ringgit.
PEMULIH has three main focuses: continuing the People’s Concern Agenda (Agenda Prihatin Rakyat), supporting businesses, and improving vaccination rates .
Continuing the Agenda Prihatin Rakyat
Bantuan Prihatin Rakyat or BPR.

The government has agreed to pay in additional to the BPR, up to RM500, in July and the payment will made in stages starting tomorrow (29 June).
The third phase of the BPR will include assistance ranging from RM 100 to RM 1,400, and will be paid in September.
September will also involve payment for BPR appeal cases.
Covid-19 Special Assistance

Households in the hardcore poor category will receive assistance of RM 500 ringgit in August, RM500 ringgit in November, and RM300 December, while single individuals in the hardcore poor category will receive assistance as much as RM 200 ringgit in August and RM300 in November.
Households in the B40 category will receive as much as RM500 ringgit in August and RM300 in December, while singles in the B40 category will receive assistance of RM200 in August.
Households in the M40 category will receive RM250, while singles in the M40 category will receive RM100 in August.
Income Loss Assistance

In October, as much as RM500 will be channeled to workers who lost their income based on EPF or SOCSO data in 2021.
The Government will also expand the Job Seeker Allowance to non-SOCSO contributors especially new graduates, school leavers, and informal sector workers. They can register at the MYFutureJobs platform and will receive an allowance of at least RM300.
The government will allocate RM125 million through HRD Corp. to implement the Place and Train initiative under the Janapreneur programme especially to school leavers and graduates.
MDEC will also improve the existing programs, namely eRezeki and GLOW in order to help over 20,000 job seekers in the gig economy.
Food basket assistance programme

The government will allocate RM300,000 to each Member of Parliament to implement a Food Basket Assistance programme to help affected groups in their in their respective areas.
Additionally, RM10 million will be provided for the purpose of implementing a special Food Basket Assistance programme for the Orang Asli.
Oil prices remain

Retail prices for RON95 petrol, diesel, and LPG, will remain.
To address the issue of the increasing prices of 1 kilogram to 5 kilogram bottled cooking oil,  the government will implement a Price Control program based on the threshold value of Crude Palm Oil.
To ensure the supply of 1 kilogram polybag packed cooking oil is guaranteed, the government will provide an additional allocation of RM1 billion. This will fix the price of a 1 kilogram polybag pack of cooking oil at a subsidized price of RM2.50.
Psychosocial support

The government will expand psychosocial support through channels such as talian kasih.
RM15 million will be allocated to non-governmental organizations or NGOs to assist the government in addressing social issues such as mental health, homelessness, and other social problems at the community level.
Electricity bill discounts

A 5% to 40% discount on electricity bills will be given according to the use with a maximum limit of 900 kWh a month.
A discount of 40% will be given to electricity consumption below 200kWh per month and 15% for consumption between 201kWh to 300kWh per month.
This discount will go into effect for a period of three months beginning with the July 2021 bill.
For the affected sectors of the economy especially hotel operators, theme parks, convention centers, shopping malls, local tourism office as well as travel and tourism agencies, an electricity bill discount of 10% will be extended for another three months, from October to December 2021.
Free internet

The country’s major telecommunications service provider companies have agreed to extend the provision of 1 gigabit of data, daily, for free, until the end of the year.
Mobile banks

Mobile banking services have been launched this month in Sarawak and Bank Simpanan Nasional will start the facility in Sabah in July.
To make it easier for more people to get banking services, the government will offer an allocation of RM18 million for local banks to provide about 30 Mobile Banks units in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak. This includes 250 rural areas and mukims.
Through this initiative, the people can access various banking services including opening accounts; depositing, withdrawing, and transfering money; paying bills as well as digital banking.
Supporting businesses
Geran Khas Prihatin (GKP) 4.0

The government has agreed to provide additional payments under Geran Khas Prihatin (GKP) 4.0 to the eligible recipients. RM500 will be paid in September and RM500 again in November 2021.
Program Subsidi Upah (PSU) 4.0
Through the Program Subsidi Upah (PSU) 4.0 initiative the government will accommodate up to 500 workers for each employer at a rate of RM600 per-employee for a period of four months; 2 months for all sectors in Phase 2 of PPN, and the next 2 months specifically for sectors categorised in the negative list during Phase 3.
Under PSU 4.0, there are no salary limit conditions. This means, employers can apply for PSU 4.0 for its employees who earn more than RM 4,000.
HRD Corp levy exemption

HRD Corp levy exemption for a period of two months will be given automatically to employers who are currently unable to operate under MCO.
Additionally, employers from new sectors that are included as a result of an extension of the Perbadanan Sumber Manusia Berhad Act 2001,  will get an extension of levy exemption until 31 December 2021.
New jobs

Under the National Employment Council or NEC, the government will create employment opportunities and skills training placements through collaboration strategies between Government agencies and industry players.
Through the PenjanaKerjaya program by SOCSO, the government has provided financial incentives to employers who provide new job opportunities.
PenjanaKerjaya 3.0 programme will continue with some improvements. The salary eligibility limit is lowered from RM1,500 to RM1,200.
The term of the employment contract will also be relaxed from 12 months to 6 months for the category of employees aged 50 years and above, the disabled, and ex-convicts.
Go online and cashless transactions

To Encourage digitisation and cashless transactions the government has developed the Program Pemerkasaan Pendigitalan Usahawan Kecil or PUPUK with an allocation of RM200 million for micro, small and medium enterprises (PMKS) and RM100 million for small and medium enterprises (PKS).
For the entertainment industry

The government will allocate RM100 million in the form of financing facilities and financial assistance support.
These provisions include incentives for the production of creative works and digital content, career opportunities, skills upgrading programs, contributions protection under SOCSO, as well as the acquisition of products for production purposes in television, radio, and songwriting.

MORE TO COME

Share your thoughts with us on TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Zoo Negara Offers 20% Off On Reopening Day After MCO Closure

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

Cinemas aren’t the only attractions excited to reopen on Friday, 5th May 2021, after months of being closed due to the Movement Control Order (MCO).

Our very own Zoo Negara seems to be quite excited to welcome visitors back to visit the many animals who have gone without seeing much human activity for a while.
The zoo is offering a 20% discount on entrance tickets for one day only, on its reopening day on Friday, 5th March 2021.
Regularly-priced tickets for adults, children, and senior citizens are priced at RM45, RM18, and RM23 respectively. With the discounts, they will be priced at RM36, RM14.40, and RM18.40 respectively.
         View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Zoo Negara Malaysia (Official) (@zoonegara_malaysia)

Share your thoughts with us on TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Malaysians Troll Politicians Over ‘Sincere’ Donations

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest stories and updates.

While it is much appreciated, the public has questioned the need for politicians to ‘brand’ the donation made to their respective communities.

Recently, a Twitter user @chairman_GLC shared a picture showing a set of marble tables and benches marked with “Sincerely from YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Bin Tengku Abdul Aziz”.
Macam compensating something pulak pic.twitter.com/HS8sM8nJnd— Abah (@chairman_GLC) July 14, 2022
The picture was allegedly taken in Kuala Selangor, where the finance minister is rumoured to be interested to contest in the next general election.
“It’s like compensating for something,” wrote @chairman_GLC.
This prompted other users to share several other pictures of ministers and politicians’ “sincere” donations that were made in other places.
Ini pun taknak kalah. Esok nak liquid pic.twitter.com/nGbU7QXC81— nęs (@llobsster) July 14, 2022
Ni nanti kena update jadi bekas menteri pic.twitter.com/bN91JHialz— Dafrosty 🏴 (@Dafrosty) July 14, 2022
The same picture was also shared by @PoliticoMy today which has received over 1,000 likes on the platform at the time of writing.
Contoh politician over nak claim credit. pic.twitter.com/Zd9PmGs0lm— POLITICO 🇲🇾 (@PoliticoMy) July 14, 2022
The definition of being sincere
Similarly, the majority of the users that engaged with the post poked fun at these politicians.
One particular user even shared the meaning of sincerity, provided by the Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP).
 pic.twitter.com/CZsqQ5p0IZ— janicew_ (@janicewww1) July 15, 2022
hanya di Malaysia pic.twitter.com/XDdEgviPhv— danishriez 🇵🇸 (@danishriez) July 14, 2022
However, there are also those that question whether it is really the politicians that wanted their names to be put onto the donations they made or is it the works of their respective aides.
Mmg la politician malaysia ni semacam, tapi benda camni kadang rasa, yeke dia letak? Ntah2 yang bawah2nya tu yg beriya. 😅😂— satusen (@satucents) July 15, 2022
Another user meanwhile said that it is a normal practice by politicians to label their donations and it does not mean that the person is trying to show off.
hakikatnya nama tu adalah untuk jangka masa panjang dalam kerjaya politik..bukan niat untuk menunjuk yg diri tu seorang penderma.pada kita mmg nampak sifat menunjuk..tp dlm kerjaya politik jangka masa panjang, ianya amat memerlukan demi menarik perhatian rakyat utk politiknya— Hash (@ArmoreArm) July 15, 2022
READ MORE: Minister’s Food Aid Box For Low-Cost Housing Families Draw Backlash After Pictures Surface
Share your thoughts with us on TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.