Wawasan 2020: Did We Make The Mark?

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

Since its inception in 1991, Wawasan 2020 aka Vision 2020 was both a catchy song and the dream of a utopic Malaysia “a fully developed nation” that is prosperous, harmonious and with flying cars zooming around skyscrapers.
Flying cars envisioned in 1991, zooming around a 2020 metropolis Kuala Lumpur.(Credit: Coretan Anuar)
Well, time’s up! 2020 is knocking on the door and asking for a vision test.
While Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has already lamented the failure of Wawasan 2020 (despite the flying car), an Ipsos research finds that 40% of Malaysians believe that we’ve already achieved it.
So let’s see how much of Wawasan 2020 we’ve managed to achieve (or fail).
First things first, what’s Wawasan 2020?
Dr Mahathir first announced his vision back in 1991, with the running theme of â€œa fully developed country by the year 2020.
By the year 2020, Malaysia can be a united nation, with a confident Malaysian society, infused by strong moral and ethical values, living in a society that is democratic, liberal and tolerant, caring, economically just and equitable, progressive and prosperous, and in full possession of an economy that is competitive, dynamic, robust and resilient.Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, Malaysia The Way Forward, 1991 via Prime Minister’s Office of Malaysia.
Tun M at the KLCC construction site.(Credit: Perdana Leadership Foundation)
To achieve this grand vision of a utopic Malaysia, the government outlined 9 challenges that must be overcome:
A united Malaysian nation with a sense of common and shared destiny, known as ‘Bangsa Malaysia’A psychologically liberated, secure, and developed Malaysian society with faith and confidence in itselfFostering and developing a mature democratic societyA fully moral and ethical societyA matured, liberal and tolerant societyA scientific and progressive societyA fully caring societyAn economically just society, in which there is a fair and equitable distribution of the wealth of the nationA prosperous society, with an economy that is fully competitive, dynamic, robust and resilient
The super-futuristic Kuala Lumpur of 2020 imagined in the 90s.(Credit: RILEKS! magazine via mynameisnazir.blogspot)
Can we actually measure Wawasan 2020 achievements?
There’s no objective way to tell if we’ve overcome these challenges or even achieved Wawasan 2020. There isn’t a specific target, and 7 out of 9 challenges can’t be measured.
The only measurable outcome is the GDP, which Dr Mahathir envisioned to be 8 times larger than 1990 with an annual growth rate of 7%.
Based on The World Bank’s data, Malaysia’s annual growth from 1990 to 2018 averages at 5.8%.
Malaysia’s annual GDP growth from 1990 to 2018.(Credit: The World Bank)
VERDICT: HAS TROUBLE CATCHING UP
How about looking at the developed nation status?
According to the United Nations, Malaysia is still a developing economy.
Malaysia is listed as a developing economy by the United Nations.(Credit: World Economic Situations and Prospects 2019)
VERDICT: NEED TO STUDY HARDER
But, let’s look into some of the 9 challenges put forward in Wawasan 2020 and see how we measure up today.
A united Malaysian nation.
In the age of social media, we constantly face a barrage of incidents that incite racial and religious anger. The good news is Malaysians, for the most part, still, seek unity.
Harmonious comments by TRP’s readers.
On the flip side, a 2019 study by Ipsos Malaysia found that 67% of Malaysians are concerned about national unity and safety, especially on the possibility of violent conflicts involving ethnic or minority groups. This fear increased by 12% from the previous year.
Meanwhile, Sultan Nazrin Shah of Perak was quoted by The Star lamenting that a firmly united nation is still elusive despite 62 years of independence, expressing concern about slogans and rhetoric in the name of race and religion with extremist tones.
VERDICT: TEAMWORK NEEDS MORE WORK
Developing a mature democratic society
Progress is seen in the form of a brand-new ruling government after 61 years of independence, which showed a maturing democracy.
This is further marked by lowering the voting age from 21 years old to 18 years old, thereby giving more Malaysians a voice in democracy.
(Credit: TRP)
VERDICT: EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS
A fully moral and ethical society
According to Dr Kua Kia Soong, who serves as an adviser to SUARAM (a local human rights NGO), human rights in Malaysia still fails to be held in good standards. He told The Star that this is due to the lack of political will to reform decades of institutionalised politics of racism and racial discrimination.
However, based on the United Nation’s list of 30 fundamental human rights, Malaysia is slacking in only 4, which includes child marriages and citizenship laws biased against women.
Women’s rights activists and students demonstrating outside the Parliament to ban child marriage in Malaysia.(Credit: Hari Anggara/Malay Mail)
VERDICT: ALMOST THERE
A matured, liberal and tolerant society
Based on the current political climate, it seems that there is increasing conservatism in Malaysia.
The Jakarta Post notes that religion is fast becoming a main source of dispute in Malaysia in 2014. Speaking to now Election Commission chairman, Azhar Harun (aka Art Harun), he expressed concern on how everything, from TV shows to festive celebrations, has become wrapped in religious fervour.
Religious conservatism is on the rise in Malaysia.(Credit: Reuters via Malay Mail)
Malaysia’s social tolerance is also shown to have dropped drastically in 2019 in The Prosperity Index 2019 by London-based Legatum Institute.
VERDICT: HAS TROUBLE SOCIALISING
Fair and equitable distribution of the wealth of the nation.
The initial goal of Wawasan 2020 was to narrow the wealth gap between ethnic income groups, which the 2005 National Mission government report surmised as showing slight improvement.
While Malaysia’s middle class has expanded since 1991, a Khazanah Research Institute (KRI) study cited in The Star found that the income gap between the rich, middle class and poor in Malaysia has widened since 2008 – almost double compared to 20 years ago.
(Credit: Shared Prosperity Vision 2030)
The Malaysian Reserve also highlighted that only 0.2% of Malaysian adults have wealth over USD1 million (~RM4.13 million) despite the national wealth’s  14% year-on-year growth to a total of USD682 billion (~RM2.8 trillion) in 2019.
Despite this, Malaysia’s Gini coefficient, which measures income distribution, has been improving every year.
Another good news is the implementation of a minimum wage in 2009 and the subsequent increase to RM1,200 (for urban centres) in 2020.
VERDICT: PLEASE INCREASE POCKET MONEY
(Credit: Kembara7.blogspot)
TOTAL MARKS: GOOD, BUT NEEDS MORE WORK
What’s after 2020?
For a brief interlude in 2017, the next wawasan for Malaysia was former prime minister Najib Razak’s National Transformation 2050 (TN50). The aim was for Malaysia to be a nation of calibre, with a new mindset by 2050.
But that plan died along with Barisan National’s loss in the 2018 general election.
Najib Razak explaining his TN50 vision a few months before losing the 2018 General Election.(Credit: Mohd Yusni Ariffin/Berita Harian)
Following that, the new Pakatan Harapan government under Dr Mahathir made mentions on extending the Wawasan 2020 deadline to 2025. But that idea was ditched and in October 2019, the Shared Prosperity Vision 2030 (SPV 2030) became the new wawasan.
This time, the goal is to provide a decent standard of living
to all Malaysians, across income groups, ethnicities and regions, by 2030.
Launch of the Shared Prosperity Vision 2030 in October 2019 by Tun M with Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah (second, right), Home Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin (right) and Economic Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali (left).(Credit: Bernama via Prime Minister’s Office)
SPV 2030 is particularly keen on addressing wealth and income inequality instead of solely focusing on GDP growth. Plus, there are actually 10 measurable targets to measure the country’s growth in the next 10 years.
10 targets outlined in the Shared Prosperity Vision 2030.(Credit: Shared Prosperity Vision 2030)
Only time will tell if 2030 will finally be Malaysia’s utopia, but having a clear measurable goal certainly helps.
Harapan Malaysia GIF from Harapan GIFs

What do you think of Malaysia’s progress in the last 30 years and what improvements do you hope for the future? Let us know on TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

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


Shamsul Iskandar To Take On Zahid’s Bagan Datuk, Wan Azizah Heads To Bandar Tun Razak

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

PKR is sending its former information chief Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin to Umno’s stronghold Bagan Datuk in the 15th General Election (GE15).

This would see him take on Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi should the latter decide to defend the seat he has held since 1995.
Shamsul Iskandar, in the past two general elections, defeated Umno veteran Tan Sri Mohd Ali Rustam for the Bukit Katil (GE13) and Hang Tuah Jaya (GE14) parliamentary seats.
In an announcement made last night, PKR officially confirmed its president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will be heading to Tambun. PKR vice president Nurul Izzah Anwar meanwhile will defend Permatang Pauh.
As for former president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, she will be leaving Pandan for Bandar Tun Razak.
The seat had been PKR’s for the past two general elections but they lost it when the late Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim (GE13) was sacked from the party and Datuk Kamaruddin Jaafar (GE14) quit and later joined Bersatu.
PKR deputy president Rafizi Ramli who won Pandan in GE13 but stayed out of GE14 will return to contest in the seat.
As mentioned earlier by Anwar, Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari will be heading to Gombak, most likely battling for the seat against its incumbent, former PKR deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali.
Notable names dropped from PKR’s candidate list is incumbent Sungai Buloh MP Sivarasa Rasiah, Petaling Jaya MP Maria Chin Abdullah and Gopeng MP Dr Lee Boon Chye.
PKR communications director Lee Chean Chung will stand in Petaling Jaya, Ramanan Ramakrishnan will head to Sungai Buloh while Tan Kar Hing will take on Gopeng.
Retained to defend their seats are Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad in Setiawangsa and Fahmi Fadzil in Lembah Pantai.
R. Prabakaran who won Batu as an independent candidate will now defend the seat under PKR.
Newcomer candidate Dr Noraisyah Mydin Abdul Aziz is set to take on Putrajaya, a seat held by Umno’s Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor since 2004. Earlier, Perikatan Nasional (PN) announced they would be sending in former Education Minister and Bersatu vice president Datuk Dr Radzi Jidin to wrest the seat from Umno.
While there has been no official word, it was reported back in August that Putrajaya Umno had submitted Tengku Adnan’s name as a potential candidate for the seat in GE15.
As for Ampang, a seat previously held by PKR through Datuk Zuraida Kamaruddin, the party will be sending its Batu Tiga assemblyman Rodziah Ismail into battle.
Zuraida left PKR in 2020 and later joined Bersatu. She then left the party to join Parti Bangsa Malaysia (PBM). Now the president of PBM, the party confirmed Zuraida will defend Ampang in GE15. PBM, despite being new, is not however free from drama as Larry Sng claimed he was still president, in line with the party’s constitution.
In a surprise move, PKR announced former Amanah vice president Datuk Husam Musa as its candidate for the Pasir Mas parliamentary seat.
Husam stepped down from his leadership post in Amanah but remained a member. Malaysiakini, quoting Husam, reported that he would now be joining PKR.
Pasir Mas has been a PAS stronghold since the 90s. It is a known battleground for Datuk Ibrahim Ali, who on three occasions won the seat for Umno, Semangat 46 and PAS. He has also stood in the constituency as an independent candidate but failed to secure a win. Now a member of Parti Bumiputera Perkasa Malaysia or Putra for short, it is unclear if and where he will contest in GE15.
In Kedah, PKR secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail will defend the Kulim-Bandar Baharu parliamentary seat which he won in the last general election by defeating Umno’s Datuk Abdul Aziz Sheikh Fadzir and PAS’ Hassan Abdul Razak.

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


The Philippines Decides To Include Sabah In Their Passport Map Of The Country

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

In another day of The Philippines’ claim on Sabah, the Southeast Asian Country has approved a new bill that requires the printing of The Philippine map to include the Malaysian state of Sabah.

CNN Philippines reports the Phillipine House Committee on Foreign Affairs saying that this bill “aims to emphasize and insist on our victory on the West Philippine Sea over China in their International Arbitral Tribunal in the Hague, Netherlands, and our legal and historical rights over Sabah.”
The author of the bill Rufus Rodriguez also said that the inclusion of the map on The Philippines passport is a “strong statement that we are asserting our sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea and our EEZ.”
Credit: diamzon.com
In 2013, The Philippines challenged China in international court over its claims in the West Phillipine Sea.
The Permanent Court of Arbitration based in Hague ruled in 2016 that China’s nine-dash line claim and accompanying claims to historic rights have no validity under international law, and recognised The Philippines’  sovereign rights in areas within its exclusive economic zone.
The author of the bill Rufus Rodriguez  also said that the inclusion of the map on The Philippines passport is a “strong statement that we are asserting our sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea and our EEZ.”
However, diplomatic spats with Malaysia have been ongoing for decades as Filipino politicians assert claims over Sabah.
Credit: Google Maps & @teddyboylocsin/Twitter
Just in July this year, The Phillipine Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. raised the ire of Malaysians over a tweet declaring that “Sabah is not in Malaysia” – leading Malaysian Foreign Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein to summon the Philippines Ambassador to Malaysia for an explanation.
READ MORE: “Sabah Is Not In Malaysia” Says Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary, Hishamuddin Demands Explanation
Though Sabah joined the Federation of Malaysia in 1963, the state was once part of the centuries-old sultanate of Sulu which encompassed North Borneo and parts of southern Philippines.
However, the sultanate entered an agreement with the British North Borneo Company in 1878 that stipulated North Borneo was either ceded or leased (depending on the translation used) to the company in return for a yearly payment of 5,000 Malayan Dollar.
Malaysia stopped paying the heirs of the Sulu Sultanate after the 2013 Lahad Datu attacks as a means to assert Malaysia’s sovereignty over Sabah.
READ MORE: Who Were The Sulu Who Invaded Lahad Datu 7 Years Ago?

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

Source:
House panel approves bill on printing of West Philippine Sea, Sabah on PH passports
Sabah, WPS to be printed on PH passports
International Court Issues Unanimous Award in Philippines v. China Case on South China Sea


M’sian Girl Applauded On James Corden’s Talk Show For Breakthrough Idea

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

Year Five student Maryam Muzamir has made her way through the international talk-show circuit when popular television host James Corden praised the 11-year old for inventing a sustainable livestock feed out of seafood shells.

11-year-old Maryam Muzamir found a use for seafood shells by creating a sustainable livestock feed. Go, Maryam, go! #ClimateNight pic.twitter.com/93cUAX5f61— The Late Late Show with James Corden (@latelateshow) September 23, 2021
In the 48 second clip posted on the comedian’s official Twitter account, James begins his monologue with:
“Maryam Muzamir, she’s an 11-year-old girl in Malaysia, she found a use for a common food waste – seafood shells – and she makes them into a new sustainable, healthy livestock feed.”
He then pauses and dramatically stresses:
“She’s 11 years old. Yeah, in Malaysia.” which was then followed by applause from the audience.
Much like many of us at 11-years-old who were nowhere close to the kind of accomplishments Maryam has achieved, Corden then reflects on the time when he was a kid in High Wycombe in England working at a pizza place.
“I was so concerned about the levels of food waste that would eat some of the leftover slices. I never got an award for it though” he jested.
Since his tweet from 23 September, there have been close to 5k retweets, 6k likes and thousands more from those who watch his television show.
The invention that caught the eye of science and late-night talk shows
(Credit: Screen grab from clip show on The Late Late Show with James Corden on Twitter)
Maryam’s innovative idea won her three awards, including the Canadian Special Award at the 6th International Invention Innovation Competition (iCAN 2021) in Toronto, Canada last month.
She tells NST her inspiration came to her when every time she ate at seafood restaurants, she would notice sea snails (siput sedut) and shrimp shells being disposed of in large quantities.
Eager to tackle the issue, she began collecting, cleaning and grinding the waste and collected about 30kg of it to produce a sustainable animal feed known as Yam 2.0.
Maryam’s father, Dr Muzami Hasan helped advise on the product.
The Associate Professor at Engineering college at Universiti Malaysia Pahang, encouraged his daughter to compete internationally after her invention won gold at the Creation, Innovation, Technology & Research Exposition (Citrex) last year and the International Research Invention and Innovation Exhibition 2021 (I-RIE) this year.
Maryam’s first win abroad was a Gold Medal, Canadian Special Award and Best Young Inventor Award at the sixth International Invention Innovation Competition in Canada, iCAN 2021.

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


Covid-19 Vaccination Leave? Malaysia Already Approved It In April 2021 (Kind Of)

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

As Klang Valley residents signed up for their AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccination shots this May, one of the biggest questions is “Do I get a day off work for taking my vaccine?”

Well, as it turns out Malaysia has actually approved Covid-19 vaccination leave in April 2021.
Earlier in April, the Human Resources Ministry gave the green light for employers to grant their employees leave to take Covid-19 vaccine shot.
Credit: mediaMB Terengganu via KKM
But there’s a catch
Despite being in support of it, Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri M Saravanan said that it’s up to the employer to grant the leave because “the government cannot declare a special holiday as it is not carried out on the same day.”
Shortly after his announcement, Malaysian Employers Federation President Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman JP released a statement urging private sector employers to provide employees time off to be inoculated.
However, he too stressed that paid leave for vaccination must be at the discretion of the employers, arguing that one day of paid leave would cost private sector employers in Malaysia a total of about RM904 million.
MEF would like to propose to the government to allow employers to send their employees to vaccination centres in batches to facilitate transport arrangements and other logistics.Malaysian Employers Federation President Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman JP via HR Resources Online.
Credit: jcomp/Freepik
It should be noted, however, that a vast majority of Malaysia’s Covid-19 clusters are currently from workplace infections as well educational sectors.
The Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) also argues that a paid day off to undergo Covid-19 vaccination should be made mandatory for employees in four core sectors:
manufacturingautomotiveservicesconstruction
Its acting president Mohd Effendy Abdul Ghani told New Straits Times that while a paid day off would cost employers, employees who are unwell would cost the company even more.
After all, he argues, these four core sectors play a huge role in the economy.
Once they have been vaccinated, it would allow these companies to work in full force, thus indirectly improving the company and its employees.Malaysian Trade Union Congress acting president Mohd Effendy Abdul Ghani to NST.
So is there any confirmation?
Credit: Unsplash & Malay Mail
Well, Science, Innovation & Technology Minister Khairy Jamaluddin has said that he would bring the matter up with the Human Resources Ministry at the Special Committee on Covid-19 Vaccine Supply Access Guarantee (JKJAV) meeting.
At the time Khairy assures that: “Employers cannot stop workers from keeping their vaccination appointments.”
So can you take Covid-19 vaccination leave? The answer for now is: “Yes, but it’s up to your bosses whether or not they’ll cut it from your pay.”

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

Source:
HR Ministry gives nod to employers giving workers Covid-19 vaccination leave, says Saravanan
HR Minister urges Malaysia employers to give vaccination leave
Decision on leave days for Covid-19 vaccine jabs after engaging stakeholders, says Human Resources Minister


[Watch] Man Digs Pathway In The Rain To Drain Flooded Highway Road

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

In preparation for the year-end floods, firefighters and the police have been sent to monitor flood-prone areas.

Although there are contingency plans in place, both the firefighters and the police are only a few in number and they can’t cover all areas.
This is when the task falls to the everyday man just like the man featured in a viral TikTok video posted by @juharmariankha.
  @juharmariankha  ♬ original sound  – MASTERPIECE
The video showed a man digging a path on the grass patch so that the water gathering on the busy road in Pasir Gudang Highway could flow into the roadside drain.
While he was making the path deeper with a shovel, the water on the road quickly gushed along the dug path and emptied into the drain.
His simple plan helped to prevent the road from fully flooding and inadvertently helped many motorists on the road that day.
  @juharmariankha  ♬ original sound  – user5649001326856
He was hailed as a hero and was praised for his selfless act to help many people that day.
Many netizens thanked him and pointed out that it wasn’t something most people were willing to do.
However, a few netizens also wondered why the Public Works Department (JKR) wasn’t there to manage the potential flood situation instead.
They believe that JKR should be monitoring roads that are flood prone as well.

Bracing for the year-end flood
MetMalaysia’s current prediction showed that the thunderstorms and intermittent heavy rains in parts of the country could lead to flash floods.
Nevertheless, Malaysia’s disaster agencies have readied preparations to brace for the year-end flood.
The Department of Irrigation and Drainage (JPS) has prepared equipment such as flood warning sirens and mobile pumps.
According to Malay Mail, the Selangor government has also proposed measures to send advance equipment to temporary evacuation centres (PPS) in flood-prone areas.
READ MORE: Klang And Kuala Selangor Residents Warned Of High Tides, Bomba Deployed To Monitor Water Levels
READ MORE: 96 Relief Sites Are Ready For Floods In Kuala Lumpur And Putrajaya, Says Rina Harun

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


Whatsapp, Facebook, Instagram, Currently Down For Majority Of Users Worldwide

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

The META family of social media platforms are reportedly unstable, causing disruptions for millions of users worldwide.

WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram are having connectivitiy issues and users are quickly turning to other applications such as Twitter and Telegram instead.
As of the time of writing, the social media platforms have not yet released a statement, nor is there any indication of when services will resume as expected.

Many users are also quickly realizing that the majority of their most-used applications are going down together at the same time, as they are all under the same parent company.
insta and whatsapp are down im so lost in life now pic.twitter.com/CRptJDswLj— eva !! indefinite hiatus (@mygkithes_) January 25, 2022

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


Heritage On Fire: Kek Lok Si Temple Monks Of Iconic Temple Escape Midnight Blaze

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

Fire is a significant hazard affecting cultural heritage assets around the world.

The latest victim is the famed Kek Lok Si Temple on Penang Island, ravaged by a fire at around 2 am on Tuesday (12 October).
The blaze is believed to be caused by oil lamps placed on wooden tables which caught fire.
The fire damaged about 70 per cent of a building which measured 40 x 50 square foot (12.91 x 15.24 meters).
The media quoted temple abbot Master RiHeng saying that he was awakened by the fire and tried to put it out with his staff.
The fire was quickly put under control. After the arrival of firefighters, they continued to put out the fire.Abbot Master RiHeng
He added that the fire only affected one per cent of the whole area of Kek Lok Si, and the temple will remain open to the public.
Thankfully, no injuries or deaths were reported.
A National Icon
Lanterns illuminating the Kek Lok Si Temple at dusk.
While its claim as the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia is disputed, Kek Lok Si is inarguably the most attractive Buddhist temple in Malaysia.
The spacious temple, perched on a hillside, provides stunning views of Georgetown.
Kek Lok Si holds the record in Malaysia for tallest temple pavilion, tallest granite pillar, and tallest statue of Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy.
Kek Lok Si is an essential place of worship for both Taoist and Mahayana Buddhists.
The fire destroyed about 70 percent of a building in the temple. (Joseph Ng / Facebook)
The temple becomes an impressive sight during Chinese New Year when thousands of lights and candles light up.
It exudes a serene atmosphere that is markedly different from the hustle and bustle of George Town.
If you can’t time your visit during Chinese New Year, try visiting the temple at sunset for an incredible photo opportunity.
For The Love Of Buddha
Volunteers helping to clean up the temple after the fire had been put out. (Joseph Ng / Facebook)
Driven by the need to build a shelter for Buddhists in Penang, the chief monk of the Pitt Street Goddess of Mercy temple proposed and helped raise funds for Kek Lok Si.
The foundation stone for Kek Lok Si was first laid in 1893.
 Leading Hakka Chinese millionaire provided financial support; Penang’s affluent merchant-trader Cheong Fatt Tze and Perak’s Kapitan Cina Chung Keng Kwee contributed generously.
The temple opened in 1905 with 70,000 copies of the Buddhist Sutra from the Qing Dynasty’s Guangxu Emperor.
10,000 Buddhas Pagoda
The gigantic statue of Kuan Yin at Kek Lok Si.
The most iconic part of the temple – the 10,000 Buddhas Pagoda – was not built until 1930.
The pagoda is officially named the “Rama VI Pagoda”  after the Siamese king who laid the foundation stone.
With its Chinese-inspired foundation, Thai middle section, and Burmese tower tops, the pagoda represents a mixture of Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism rarely seen in Southeast Asian temples.
At 291 feet tall, the pagoda is an iconic image in Penang. Inside, the ongoing patronage of the Thai Royal Family is represented by a Buddha statue donated by the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
In 2002, a 100-foot-tall statue of Kuan Yin was added. An intricate shelter was later built around the figure.

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


76-Year-Old Senior Citizen Dies In Sentul, Beaten With Chair Over RM250 Debt

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

An elderly man died after fighting with another man who was believed to owe him RM250.

The incident happened at 6.45 am on Friday (28 Jan) at a restaurant in Metro Prima Kepong, Kuala Lumpur.
The 76-year-old victim was found dead on the side of the road about 100m from the fight’s location.
Sentul police chief ACP Beh Eng Lai said in a statement that police received a call about the incident at 7.30 am from a 48-year-old local man.
The victim is said to have been beaten by the suspect using a plastic chair while the victim also responded to the attack with a cable rod. The fight was then broken up by some Rela members who were at the scene and the victim then left on foot.Sentul Police Chief Beh Eng Lai elaborating on the incident.
However, when walking away from the scene, the victim collapsed and was confirmed dead afterwards.

Following the incident, police arrested a 63-year-old man at 11 am the same day when he came to the Kepong Police Station to make a report.
A white plastic chair and a black cable rod used in the fight were also confiscated for further investigation.
The cause of the fight is believed to be due to a debt problem where the suspect failed to pay the victim a debt of RM250.Sentul Police Chief Beh Eng Lai on the cause of the fight.
He said the suspect would be remanded to assist in the investigation under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder.
The victim’s body was sent to Kuala Lumpur Hospital for an autopsy to identify the cause of death.
The Sentul Police also called on the public who have any information related to this case to contact the Sentul IPD operations room at 03-40482206 to assist with the investigation.

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


In The Royal Belum Rainforest, An Indigenous Tribe Is Restoring Malayan Tiger’s Roar

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

Deep in the Royal Belum rainforest, an indigenous tribe that has remained relatively isolated from the outside world is leading the frontline in preserving mother nature and wildlife.

The Jahai Orang Asli tribe is patrolling the rainforest to combat illegal poaching and has significantly reduced the number of wildlife poaching that primarily targets the Malayan tiger.
They are given training and guidance by Persatuan Pelindung Harimau Malaysia (RIMAU), a non-governmental organisation that focuses on protecting tigers and their habitat.
The collaboration, which also involved the Perak State Park Corporation (PSPC), saw the creation of a community-based wildlife protection patrol unit called Menraq, which means ‘people’ in the Orang Asli language.
The Menraq is a specialised wildlife patrol outfit consisting entirely of the Jahai community.
The Jahai or Jehai people are indigenous people of the Semang group found in Perak and Kelantan, Malaysia and parts of Thailand. (Pix: Fernando Fong)
Rimau president Lara Ariffin said the Jahai have effectively protected Royal Belum against poachers who prey on the tiger population within its borders.
If nothing was done, the Malayan tiger could go extinct within a decade with the alarming population of less than 150 in the wild today.
The extinction of tigers in the wild is a real threat and something needed to be done before it is too late. The Jahai communities, who live within the state park borders, answered the call and stepped up to protect mother nature.Rimau president Lara Ariffin to TRP on the vital role of the indigenous peoples in protecting biological diversity.
She said the Menraq patrollers would venture deep into the rainforest for days before returning, keeping a sharp eye on snares and other poaching activities.
They are also trained to install trail cameras, which are used to address a variety of wildlife research and management purposes.
Trail cameras are high-quality devices that can track wildlife creatures in their natural habitat with minimal disturbances.
Menraq patrollers installing a trail camera. (Pix: Fernando Fong)
Mohamed Shah Redza Hussein, who heads PSPC, said the Orang Asli had been enthusiastic in their learning.
He said the indigenous community has better understood why they need to look after and protect their forest.
They understand the risk of losing their lands, culture and traditional way of life. The Orang Asli also know they are in the best position to protect the rainforest, as they know the place better than anybody else. PSPC director Mohamed Shah Redza Hussein to TRP on native peoples understanding why they need to protect the environment.
A glimpse of hope for the #malayantiger. 4 tiger cubs and their mom were spotted in Royal Belum, Perak.As of today there are less than 150 Malayan tigers in the wild, down from an estimate of 200 individuals in year 2021.#savemalayantiger Photo from WWF Malaysia. pic.twitter.com/dHCSTlPx0U— TIGERPUNKS (@tigerpunksmy) July 26, 2022
A Shot In The Arm
Yayasan Sime Darby (YSD), in collaboration with Rimau, recently launched a joint project to equip, train and deploy two new Menraq patrol teams.
The expansion is in addition to the existing three teams, with total funding of RM1.2 million over three years, from November 2021 to October 2024.
The launch was officiated by YSD’s Governing Council Members, Datuk Jeffri Salim Davidson, also the Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sime Darby Berhad.
He was joined by Mohamad Helmy Othman Basha, the Group Managing Director of Sime Darby Plantation Berhad and Dr Yatela Zainal Abidin, CEO of YSD.
the chances of sightings of the Malayan tigers can increase and so do their chances of survival.The launch was attended by YSD’s Governing Council Members including SDP’s GMD, Mohamad Helmy Othman Basha.#Conservation #MalayanTiger #SimeDarbyPlantation #Menraq pic.twitter.com/oGuUIEXVPx— Sime Darby Plantation (@SimePlantation) August 30, 2022
From left: Sime Darby CEO Datuk Jeffri Salim Davidson, YSD CEO Dr Yatela Zainal Abidin and Rimau president Lara Ariffin caught in a light moment with Orang Asli kids during the launch. (Pix: Fernando Fong)
Orang Asli kids taking part in colouring activities during the launch. (Pix: Fernando Fong)
An Orang Asli kid with a tiger face-painting. (Pix: Fernando Fong)
A Rimau volunteer putting the finishing touches of a tiger face painting. (Pix: Fernando Fong)
The launch occurred during a three-day project visit to the Royal Belum State Park (RBSP) in conjunction with International Tiger Day.
Food aid and hygiene kits were distributed during the launch to Orang Asli families in Kampung Sungai Kejar.
Money Well Spent
YSD’s sponsorship includes the channelling of stipends to the village’s community fund, managed by the Orang Asli community leaders.
The monies are used to purchase their necessities, such as rice, milk, diapers, and medication, among other things.
At the same time, it assists Orang Asli who have lost their jobs or source of income due to the pandemic.
Young men of the Jahai community who are also Menraq patrollers. (Pix: Fernando Fong)
Dr Yatela said YSD’s sponsorship for RIMAU is a two-pronged strategy.
On one hand, YSD supports not only the crucial boots-on-the-ground aspect while creating awareness of the importance of bringing the Malayan Tiger back from the brink of extinction.
At the same time, it provides the Orang Asli with a much-needed alternative sustainable livelihood by earning income for their villages as they become part of and work for the Menraq patrol team.
We are working towards the common goal of improving the population of the Malayan Tiger in RBSP so that we do not lose this majestic species one day, YSD CEO Dr Yatela to TRP on empowering local communities to play a crucial role in preservation of wildlife and mother nature.
Sunrise at Royal Belum State Park. (Pix: Fernando Fong)
Previously, YSD had committed RM630,000 for conservation education through the Layar Liar Malaysia online documentary series produced by Nuvista Media, founded by Harun Rahman and Lara Ariffin.
READ MORE: [Watch] Malaysia’s Own Planet Earth? New Documentary series On Malaysia’s Most Awe-Inspiring Biodiversity
The 52-episode Bahasa Malaysia series also features episodes on the critically endangered Malayan Tiger and the Menraq patrollers.
They are available for viewing for free on Layar Liar Malaysia’s official social media accounts.
A visitor navigates through the rainforest at Royal Belum State Park. (Pix Fernando Fong)
Nature’s Gift For Malaysians
The 130 million years old Royal Belum is blessed with beautiful landscapes and diversity in flora and fauna.
It is said to be older than the Amazon forest, making it the oldest forest in the world, keeping many secrets and mysteries.
Royal Belum covers an area of 300,000 hectares, four times the size of Singapore, and is 130 million years old.
Motorboats are crucial to navigating the vast water bodies of Royal Belum. (Pix: Fernando Fong)
Other than Malaysian tigers, other endangered animal species live within the state park.
They include Sumatran rhinoceros, Malaysian sun bears, tapirs and the white-handed gibbon.
However, the chances of encountering these remarkable animals are very slim.
Birdlife International also recognizes Royal Belum as an Important Bird Area.
Royal Belum is touted as the only place in Malaysia where one can spot all species of hornbills.
There are more than 300 known bird species in Royal Belum State Park, including various species of hornbills. (Pix: Fernando Fong)
A pair of eagles clash in the skies above Royal Belum. (Pix: Fernando Fong)
The state park was declared `The Royal Belum’ by the late Sultan of Perak, Sultan Azlan Shah, on 31 July 2003.
The name Hutan Belum is taken from the Malay village’s original name, Kampung Belum Lama, covering seven small villages.
More than 3,000 species of flora besides 64 species of ferns, 62 species of moss plants and 23 fishes live here.
A fish sanctuary teeming with kelah and tengas in Royal Belum. (Pix: Fernando Fong)
Royal Belum is divided into two parts, the Belum Forest and the Belum Forest Reserve.
Visitors can only explore the Belum Forest, which is not gazetted as a forest reserve.
Obtaining a permit from the authorities is necessary to go to the Belum Forest Reserve.
Visitors having a splashing fun time at Kooi waterfall in Royal Belum. (Pix: Fernando Fong)
Besides being a fantastic eco destination, the Belum-Temenggor forest also serves as the leading rain catchment area in Peninsular Malaysia.
The area has been identified as an Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) Rank 1 under the Malaysian National Physical Plan.
It is part of Central Forest Spine and is protected under the National Forestry Act.
A houseboat docks in the heart of Royal Belum. (Pix: Fernando Fong)

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


Perlis Superwoman Makes History As Statesâ€™ FIRST Female Police Chief

Malaysian women have been on a ROLL lately!
Last week, we celebrated the appointment of Agustavia Joe Guasi as Sabahâ€™s first female Fire Station Chief. This week, we celebrate another superwoman in the northernmost state of Perlis.
Datuk Surina Saad made history as Perlisâ€™s FIRST female police chief!
Credit: PDRM Perlis/Facebook
Th 56-year-old policewoman is a total wonder woman. Sheâ€™s been serving in the police force for over 30 years, previously as Principal Assistant Director E5 in the Special Branch, Bukit Aman.
 Datuk Surina Saad (seated) on her first day at Perlis Police Headquarters.(Credit: Facebook)
 Datuk Surina Saad (seated) on her first day at Perlis Police Headquarters.(Credit: Facebook)
Hailing from Seriab, Perlis, Datuk Surina is honoured by the history-making appointment as the new state police chief.
It is my parentsâ€™ and my wish for me to return to this state and serve here. I have been a police officer for over 30 years, so I want to give the best service to the state.Datuk Surina Saad, Perlis Police Chief via Bernama.
The appointment of Datuk Surina harkens the growing recognition of capable female police officers.
Rosie The Riveter GIF from Women GIFs
In fact, it was only about 10 years ago that Malaysia welcomed its first female state Chief Police Officer!
Datuk Robiah Abdul Ghani was the OG superwoman who first made national history when she was appointed as the Chief Police Officer of Pahang in 2008.
 Datuk Robiah Abdul Ghani(Credit: Bernama)

Congratulations Datuk Surina! We wish her all the best in keeping peace and protecting the folks of Perlis 😊


Ipoh Lady With Wristband Is NOT Person Under Surveillance

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

A woman who was seen wearing a pink wristband dining at an eatery in Ipoh earlier this week is not a Person Under Surveillance (PUS), but the wristband is instead for a nearby theme park.

What you need to know: Netizens grew concerned and urged police to investigate when a woman wearing a pink wristband was seen at an eatery. The image went viral as people believed she was breaking home quarantine.
Who said what: Ipoh police chief Assistant Commissioner A. Asmadi Abdul Aziz noted that the wristband the lady was wearing was for the Lost World of Tambun theme park.
Why it matters: It’s a healthy dose of public awareness, as such community vigilance raised awareness of a shopkeeper who broke his home quarantine who later tested positive for Covid-19, inciting the Sivagangga cluster in Kedah.
However, at this time when worries about a second wave of Covid-19 infections are on the rise again, it might be better to avoid wearing wristbands in public, regardless of what colour they are.
Read more:Nasi Kandar Eatery-Linked Covid-19 Cluster In Kedah Explodes To Second Generation, Infects Schoolchildren [TRP]Health D-G Explains How Home Quarantine Wristband Works [TRP]

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


Subang Airport Mosque Closed Due To Covid-19, Congregation Advised To Get Tested

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

All religious activities and congregational prayers at the Sultan Abdul Aziz Airport Mosque are suspended from October 8, 2020, onward due to Covid-19 concerns.

It was reported that a member of the Friday prayer congregation on October 2 was confirmed positive for the coronavirus. A total of 1,310 people were part of the congregation on that day.
The Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) advise everyone who attended the prayer session to immediately get tested if they possess symptoms and to isolate themselves at home.
As of October 9, Malaysia records a total of 14,722 confirmed cases and 152 fatalities from Covid-19.

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

Source:
Congregational prayers, activities at Sultan Abdul Aziz Airport Mosque suspended - JAIS


Johor Princess Takes Over From Vincent Tan At Berjaya Corporation

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

The founder of Berjaya Corporation Bhd (BCorp), Tan Sri Vincent Tan, 71, has resigned as Non-Independent Non-Executive Chairman from 1 March 2023.

He will continue in an advisory role to guide the Board of Directors and support the group’s continued growth.
The new line-up of Berjaya Corp’s all-female Board of Directors sees the daughter of Johor Sultan, Tunku Tun Aminah Sultan Ibrahim Ismail as the Non-Independent Non-Executive Chairman replacing Tan.
Additionally, the Co-Chief Executive Officers/Executive Steering Committees consist of Vivienne Cheng Chi Fan and Nerine Tan Sheik Ping.
The two Executive Directors are Norlela Baharudin and Chryseis Tan Sheik Ling, the daughter of Tan.
The Independent Non-Executive Directors are Dr Jayanti Naidu G Danasamy, Penelope Gan Paik Ling and Datuk Anne Eu, according to BCorp’s statement today (2 March).
#BerjayaCorp telah melantik Chryseis Tan Sheik Ling dan Tunku Aminah Sultan Ibrahim Ismail sebagai pengarah bukan bebas dan bukan eksekutif. #malaysia pic.twitter.com/0koZKL1402— Mimi Anuary (@AnuaryMimi) July 5, 2022
One Of Malaysia’s Largest Conglomerate
BCorp is a diversified conglomerate based in Malaysia with businesses in various industries.
They include property development, gaming and lottery management, hotels and resorts, retail, food and beverage, and telecommunications.
BCorp has been in operation since 1984 and has shown strong growth.
Some of the notable brands under BCorp include:
Berjaya Hotels & Resorts – A hospitality group with hotels and resorts in Malaysia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Seychelles, and the United Kingdom.Starbucks Coffee – A well-known coffee chain with outlets in Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei, under a license agreement with Starbucks Corporation.Kenny Rogers Roasters – A chain of chicken restaurants with outlets in Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.7-Eleven – A convenience store chain with outlets in Malaysia under a license agreement with 7-Eleven Inc.Berjaya Sports Toto – A lottery and gaming company in Malaysia.Berjaya Property – A property development company with projects in Malaysia, Vietnam, and the United Kingdom.Berjaya Food – A food and beverage company with brands such as Chatime, Krispy Kreme, and Jollibean.Berjaya Times Square – A shopping mall and hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Paris Baguette dibawa masuk ke Malaysia oleh Berjaya Food (BFood), franchisee terbesar Malaysia yang ada track record manage big brands:Starbucks, Krispy Kreme, Kenny Rogers. BFood di siarharga di Bursa Malaysia dan dimiliki oleh Tan Sri Vincent Tan. pic.twitter.com/ABdyt5IGFS— Azharuddin (@azha_nordin) January 22, 2023
In terms of revenue, it has consistently been one of the largest companies in Malaysia.
As of the financial year ended 30 April 2021, the group’s revenue was RM5.83 billion, and its profit after tax was RM 295.33 million.
Ups And Downs
However, like any business, BCorp has faced its share of challenges and setbacks, such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on its businesses in the tourism and hospitality industry.
#NSTbusiness Berjaya Corp Bhd (#BCorp) registered its sixth consecutive quarterly net loss due to the impact of the #lockdown on its gaming operation under Sports Toto Malaysia Sdn Bhd.https://t.co/0mWjrdln7z— New Straits Times (@NST_Online) November 30, 2021
Additionally, the group has had to deal with regulatory changes in some of its industries, such as the introduction of a sugar tax in Malaysia, affecting its beverage businesses.
BCorp has been a successful company with a strong presence in Malaysia and other countries.
Its success can be attributed to its diversified business model, strategic investments, and experienced management team.

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


Majority Of Malaysians Fully Dependent On Public Healthcare System

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

A majority of Malaysians are fully dependent on the national public healthcare system
The 2019 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS 2019) revealed that more than 70% of Malaysians seek out and make use of government healthcare services instead of private medical facilities.
According to the survey over 40% of Malaysians – especially the B40 income group –  have no other financial backup to pay for healthcare services.
(Credit: NHMS 2019)
The report also shows that only some 20% of Malaysians have any sort of personal healthcare insurance while the rest are forced to spend their current income, dip into their savings or loan money from their friends and relatives to cover their medical bills.
Moreover, the study states that Malaysians have been spending more and more on healthcare over the years, increasing from over 3% of their total monthly expenses in 2011 to more than 5% in 2019.
All this is especially concerning considering that the survey outlined that one out of every five Malaysians suffers from some sort of disease or illness and that more than 30% of Malaysians have relatively low healthcare literacy or knowledge on how to manage their medical issues and live healthy lifestyles.
(Credit: NHMS 2019)
Meanwhile, the survey also confirmed the rise of mental health issues among the public with more than half a million people suffering from depression and more than 400,000 children impacted by some form of mental health “trigger”.
(Credit: NHMS 2019)

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

Source:
Nearly 50% of M'sians rely on govt healthcare coverage
National Health and Morbidity Survey 2019 Non-communicable diseases, healthcare demand, and health literacy
Fact Sheet - National Health and Morbidity Survey 2019 Non-communicable diseases, healthcare demand, and health literacy


18 New Clusters Because Of Interstate Travel, But No Mandatory Tests For Traveling Students

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

The Health Ministry has tracked down 18 clusters stemming from cross-state activities, from 7 December until yesterday which involve 1,378 Covid-19 patients.

Seven of them were detected in Kelantan. Pahang, Sarawak, Perak have three clusters each, and Terengganu has two clusters.
Below is the list:
Kelantan
Seragam Chepa Cluster (33)Alor Durian Cluster (28)Wakaf Lanas Cluster (16)Kampung Geting Cluster (12)Kampung Renok Cluster (24)Kampung Badak Cluster (60)Kesedar Cluster (15)
Pahang
Inten Cluster (10)Semambu Cluster (12)Mempaga Cluster (542)
Sarawak
Bah Sayap Cluster (89)Pasai Cluster (429) Jelita Cluster (220)
Perak
Ehsan Ibol Cluster (33) Lumut Barat Cluster (14) Intan Mas Cluster (15)
Terengganu
Mengkuang Cluster (13)Palut Cluster (13)
Meanwhile, school students or students of institutions of higher learning (IPT) do not need to undergo Covid-19 screening if they want to sit for exams or return to dormitories and campuses.
Senior Minister (Security), Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, said schools or higher learning institutions cannot set the conditions, except for those with symptoms.
Yesterday there were complaints about IPTs and schools in some states that imposed conditions on students to make a ‘swab test’ before entering campus or hostel, to sit for exams at their own expense. The government has discussed this matter and agreed that IPTs or schools should not impose conditions on students to undergo a ‘swab test’, either to enter the hostel or to sit for exams, except for symptomatic students only.Senior Minister (Security) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob via Berita Harian
The millennial Muar MP and former Youth and Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Abdul Rahman later responded to the announcement with a picture and emoji requiring no explanation.
😒 https://t.co/ywJlL8L9Tu pic.twitter.com/YMFZdOiUj9— Syed Saddiq (@SyedSaddiq) January 15, 2021

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


How much time do you really have left with your parents?

Often, we tend to take our parents for granted. For most people, they were the constant in our lives since, well, literally a baby. Then we grew up, got jobs, and suddenly we see our parents maybe 3 times a year.
As it always is, we often delay seeing them because there’s always “something else to do”. Can’t see mak this weekend because an acquaintance is getting married, or have to cancel dinner with papa because work came up.

via GIPHY
So how many chances do we have to see them still? Let’s take the average life expectancy (75 years old) and break it down:

Yes, Malaysians don’t live very long. Source: World Life Expectancy(Picture credit: TRP)

Each block represents 1 year. There are 75 blocks for the average Malaysian.
(We’re dealing with a lot of averages here, so feel free to make your own chart with your own timelines.)
Malaysians get married at the average age of 26 (for women). Since pregnancy often very quickly follows marriage, it means that your mother probably her first child around the age of 27.

There’s still quite a lot of boxes left, actually!(Picture credit: TRP)

They would also be older if you’re not the first child!
We went for the even number.(Picture credit: TRP)
And if we were to guesstimate, probably expecting or wanting kids of your own?
Not that many boxes left…(Picture credit: TRP)
You would be extra lucky if both your parents are still alive and well.
Perhaps you may think that 57-years-old doesn’t quite seem that old. Maybe you don’t even realize it, because your parents may still be working, or semi-retired, or had just retired.

via GIPHY
They still enjoy being active by taking leisurely strolls in the taman after dinner and walking to the neaby kopitiam to meet their friends. Plus, they are still sharp, even if they have to squint through their bifocals and ask you how to post pictures on Facebook.
This is all you’ve got.(Picture credit: TRP)
So now you think, well 18 years is still a lot. A quarter of their life is still a significant amount of time. Yet if you are living away from your parents, you probably only see them about 10 times a year.
For the people who you’ve spent almost every single day growing up with, there’s only 180 chances left to spend time with them, EVER. This is including any possible sudden illnesses (touch wood!).

via GIPHY
And then you break it down some more, and it’s really only 18 more Hari Rayas, 18 more birthdays, 18 more Mother’s/Father’s Days.
So don’t put it off any longer. If you’ve always wanted to learn how to cook your mak’s delicious family recipe rendang, visit her over the weekend. If you’ve always wanted to bring your parents overseas on a holiday, better do so when they’re still good to walk around.

via GIPHY

Share your parent stories with us on our Facebook page! (And then send your parents this article too.)


Bar Council Says Lawyers Are Asking When They Can Resume Work

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

With courthouses nationwide closed due to the Movement Control Order (MCO), lawyers are asking when they can get back to work.
The Malaysian Bar explained that the government failed to provide clear instructions on whether or not the nationâ€™s legal services were allowed to continue operating during the lockdown.
Notably, legal firms aren’t considered an essential service industry following the second phase of the MCO.
The Council believes that lawyers should be given some freedom to continue working given that the Health Ministry approves of the action and with clear guidelines from the government.
With the commencement of MCO Phase 2, the Chief Registrar of the Federal Court issued a directive for all civil and criminal court hearings to be postponed and authorized the nationâ€™s legal system to work remotely.
Fun fact, Malaysia has its own e-Court system that allows trials to be held without the need for judges and lawyers to be present in court and allows for, more or less, a virtual trial to be conducted via video-conferencing.
(Credit: Food Navigator Asia)
However, due to the extension of the MCO period the Malaysian Bar had requested the country’s judiciary to review its orders as legal practitioners were facing difficulty to conduct cases without access to their resources.
The Council is currently in correspondence with the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) to sort everything out.

 Share your thoughts with us on TRPâ€™s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

Source:
Malaysian Bar: No decision yet on how, or whether law firms can operate during MCO
Essential Services List Shortened In MCO Phase 2
Courts to close down from tomorrow
E-review, video conferencing to facilitate efficient management of court cases
Press Release | The Bar Council Calls for Review of Directives Issued by the Court


[Watch] Umrah Pilgrims Rip KJ For Poor SOPs At KLIA, Forced To Wait 5 Hours For Digital Trackers

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

A TikTok video captured heated moments at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) involving pilgrims who had just returned from performing Umrah in the Holy Land.

In the 34-second video uploaded by user Zulkifli Mohamed, it appears that Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin was also recorded in the video which has gone viral.
Zulkifli claimed that the commotion was due to an incredibly long wait endured by the pilgrims upon arriving at KLIA.
  @uzm_87 #ad YB KJ mai melawat dan jemaah mengamuk kerana SOP terlalu teruk di KLIA. #fypシ #viral #umrah #YBKJ #SOP ♬ original sound  – Zulkifli Mohamed
He said the Ministry of Health Malaysia (KKM) is supposed to install digital tracking devices for the pilgrims.
Zulkifli said the pilgrims lost their patience after waiting more than 5 hours for KKM to install the digital tracking devices.

The standard operating procedure (SOP) is nonsense, we waited to wear a tracker watch but the government is not ready… so everyone is upset.TikTok user Zulkifli Mohamed on why the pilgrims were angry
Others said the long wait is due to the lack of manpower.
They said authorities should be considerate, given the long hours of the flight and a large number of pilgrims coming back.
Netizens venting their frustrations on the incident. (Source: TikTok)
Some noted that SOPs at airports is pointless as people will be sitting next to each other on the plane anyway.
Netizens weighing in on the SOPs. (Source: TikTok)
Omicron Precaution
Khairy in a press conference last Saturday informed Malaysians returning from Saudi Arabia will be required to wear digital tracking devices throughout their home surveillance and quarantine periods.
READ MORE: Travel Ban On 8 Countries Lifted, KKM Advise To Delay Travelling To High-Risk Countries
This is in light of the increasing spread of the Covid-19 Omicron variant in Malaysia.
According to him, the implementation was made following that 30 of the 49 Omicron variants in Malaysia detected on 23 and 24 December were import cases from Saudi Arabia.
Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin. (Credit: Malay Mail)

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


Is It Illegal To Be Gay In Malaysia & Why Is This Lady Eating Nasi Lemak With Chopsticks?

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

Some time ago, a famous Kopitiam founded by a Penangite in New York came out to apologize for what’s described to be an inaccurate portrayal of LGBTQ rights in Malaysia and what many see as a culinary taboo of our national dish.

READ MORE: Penangite’s Kopitiam restaurant in New York listed among best new restaurants in America
A video documentary that was originally published by Food Insider in 2020 got netizens’ attention when it had claimed that it was illegal to be gay in Malaysia.
It was said in the video that the restaurant’s founder, Chef Kyo Pan, was a Malaysian refugee who’s taking asylum in the United States because it was against the law to be queer in her home country.
Chef Kyo’s business partner, Moonlynn even went on to say that “since you can get hanged if you’re part of the LGBTQ in Malaysia, so a Malaysian restaurant ran by two queer women is also a statement.”

As you would imagine, the video has a lot of criticism from people saying how this wasn’t true and that Malaysia does not execute our LGBTQ citizens.
Malaysians were also ticked off by how the journalist in the video had used chopsticks to eat a bowl of Nasi Lemak and that the documentary wrongly mentioned that the dish was made with plain white rice instead of coconut rice – the one thing the dish is named for…
ayo u gotta be a psycho to eat nasi lemak w chopstickss🥴🥴 https://t.co/cgMuTJMBuI— faris (@farisimrn_) September 21, 2021
As Malaysian, we use spoon or our hand to eat nasi lemak. We use chopsticks for certain foods. https://t.co/isfPY0JSLB— nur syakirah (@Syarklovett) September 22, 2021
In their apology, Kopitiam said sorry for the “old Food Insider interview” and said that it understood how it made people angry.
They said that they have asked Food Insider to take the video down for providing wrong information regarding Nasi Lemak and the LGBTQ community in Malaysia.
The video was made 2 years ago and the person who provided the political commentary gave wrong info about LBGTQ in Malaysia. This person is actually a former business partner who is not Malaysian and she is no longer associated with Kopitiam since the pandemic.Kopitiam’s official statement
They also said that Chef Kyo is always proud to be a Malaysian and that was the reason why they got into the food business in the first place.
         View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Kopitiam NYC (@kopitiamnyc)
However, conversations online also show that netizens seem to think that what was said in the video about LGBTQ representation in Malaysia wasn’t too far from the truth.
So many stupid homophobic Malaysians thinks that non Muslim wont get arrested or discriminate by the law if they’re Lgbt! Bitch Go study the laws first!The funny thing is 90% comments under the post are homophobic yet they act like Malaysia is welcoming country for Lgbt people! https://t.co/WiugVMJjSk— 🌊♛TheWeirdBoy♛🌊🇲🇾🏳🌈 (@Danesh_Danny) September 20, 2021
Lol the replies section is the definition of gaslighting.“Gay people where got kena hang? Just publicly shamed and caned only ma.” https://t.co/3eeJR5v1LT— yaep, it’s nicky. (@whataweirdvoice) September 20, 2021
So like, can you really get hanged for being gay in Malaysia?
No, of course not, nor is it actually illegal to be gay in Malaysia. The issue is always more complicated than it appears to be.
The short answer, Malaysia still retains some colonial-era bans against sodomy and oral sex as well as religious restrictions against homosexuality.
Section 337 of the Penal Code criminalises the acts of carnal intercourse against the order of nature, stating that it is against the law for “Any person who has sexual connection with another person by the introduction of the penis into the anus or mouth” either with or without consent.
This can be punishable by a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and also whipping.
But the law is said to have never actually been used to prosecute homosexuals.
Malaysia’s Syariah laws, however, does specify crimes of homosexuality, and since Syariah laws are different in each state, a person prosecuted under these laws may face fines, jail time, whipping and also be sentenced to ‘reeducation camps’.
According to organizations like the Human Rights Watch (HRW), Malaysia is still not a very friendly place for people in the LGBTQ community and research has shown that members of the community are faced with discrimination, ridicule as well as physical, emotional and sexual violence from their family, friends and society.
Catch this documentary by R.AGE for a much longer answer to Malaysia’s relationship with the LGBTQ community.

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

Source:
New York’s Kopitiam apologises for inaccurate LGBTQ statement and nasi lemak controversy after online criticism (VIDEO)
Penangite’s Kopitiam restaurant in New York listed among best new restaurants in America
Why Malaysian Family Recipes Are Key To This Café's Success | Line Around The Block
SOCIAL STORIESKopitiam In New York Responds To Backlash For Inaccurate Portrayal Of M’sia In Video
Act 574 PENAL CODE
The reality of Malaysia's laws on homosexuality | R.AGE
Malaysia’s Highest Court Strikes Down State Gay Sex Ban


PDRM Tracking Down Men Who Beat Up A Foreigner In Kajang For Assault & Breaching Covid-19 SOPs

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

The police are investigating the incident involving a group of men who assaulted a foreigner in Taman Alam Jaya, Batu 9 Cheras, Kajang after a video surfaced on social media recently.

According to Kajang district police chief ACP Mohd Zaid Hassan Mohd Zaid, the incident is clearly a criminal violence that can be investigated under Section 147 of the Penal Code.
The initial investigation found that the incident involved a man, believed to be a foreigner, who was assaulted by a group of local men known as Yusuf Azmi, Abang Ali and several others who are yet to be identified.Kajang district police chief ACP Mohd Zaid Hassan Mohd Zaid via Malay Mail
ACP Mohd Zaid Hassan also said that further examination on the video also found that the group of men had violated the Standard Operating Procedures by gathering in a crowd and not practicing social distancing.
For the SOP violation, it’s being investigated under Section 269 of the Penal Code and Section 22(b) of the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988.
[VIRAL] ‘Tak puas hati isu t-shirt ciplak punca aktivis Persatuan Pengguna Semboyan 1 Malaysia Yusuf Azmi belasah pekerja warga asing’ – Sumber Dalaman#AWATNINews pic.twitter.com/V4pY4fpsua— AWATNI Buzz (@AWATNINews) May 3, 2021
The assailant, Yusuf Azmi, explains what happened
One of the names, which was mentioned by the police, Yusuf Azmi, actually came out with a statement on Facebook recently and addressed the incident.
Yusuf said that he met the foreigner after hearing rumours about people trying to exploit his clothing brand by selling fake or low-quality shirts.
He explained he acted in such a way because he did not want a third person to tarnish his name and the clothing brand.
You try to imagine we only ordered 600 pieces at a price of RM10 ringgit. He can make an easy profit of RM6000 just by selling reject Semboyan Jihad t-shirts that has been rejected. He also used a shirt printing shop owned by the Malays themselves as bait and convince victims to be deceived.Yusuf Azmi

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


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

Weekly congregational Friday prayers at mosques would continue to be held in observance to Covid-19 guidelines.
According to the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Seri Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri, the standard operating procedures (SOP) for Muslim communal prayer activities won’t be going anywhere, anytime soon as it is necessary to combat the spread of the pandemic.
These guidelines included mandatory check-ins, temperature screenings, social distancing and hygiene practices as well as attendance limits and restrictions against the sick, young and elderly.
The minister revealed that official SOPs were drafted with the aid of the Special Muzakarah Committee of the National Council on Islamic Religious Affairs of Malaysia (MKI), the National Security Council (MKN), the Health Ministry (MOH), as well as from international Islamic scholars like the Grand Imam of the al-Azhar mosque – an extension of the al-Azhar University in Egypt -, and scholars in Saudi Arabia.
The Prime Minister’s Department (JPM) had even published two separate books to look at the pandemic from an Islamic point of view, which Zulkifli had apparently written himself.
The books titled; Soal Jawab Fiqh Covid-19, an F.A.Q and guides for Muslims during the pandemic, as well as Inilah Doaku, a collection of daily prayers, both available for free downloads on the JPM site, HERE.
Books published by JPM.(MIRA/JPM)

Catch more updates by following us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Source:
Covid-19 Guidelines For Mosques & Congregational Prayer Remains, Says Minister
It’s Not Sinful To Miss Friday Prayers If You Weren’t “Invited”, Says Selangor Mufti
Social distancing for Friday prayers to be maintained for time being, says minister Zulkifli
Mosques & Suraus In Federal Territories Are Open, Hajj Is Closed, Says Minister


Local Sikh Group Calls Out M’sian Film ‘Mat Kilau’ For Portraying Minority Races In Negative Light

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

The Malaysian film Mat Kilau: Pahlawan Bangkit received critical acclaim since its debut in cinemas.

READ MORE: Record-Breaking Mat Kilau Rakes In RM12.2 Million Over Four Days
However, the film is also not without its faults to some members of the community such as the Sikh non-governmental organisation United Sikhs Malaysia.

The group noted that the film is a fictional retelling of a figure who fought against British imperialism in Pahang and showed the spirit of the Malays who were determined to defend Tanah Melayu.
READ MORE: The Real Mat Kilau, From Nobility To Living As A Recluse, And Almost A Tan Sri
Nevertheless, the group also found that the portrayal of non-Malay Muslim characters as villains in the film was distasteful and problematic.
Based on the group’s official statement, the film regretfully portrayed characters of other races and religions such as turbaned-Sikhs as British soldiers who laid hands on old folks, children, and helpless citizens.
A scene from the Mat Kilau film.
While they acknowledged that these characterisations were added by the producers to tell a compelling story, they believe these negative portrayals could lead to racial disharmony.
The group also explained that the Sikh code of practice prohibits its followers from laying hands on children, women, the elderly, and helpless citizens, even during a war.
We humbly urge the Malaysian Film Industry NOT to produce movies at the expense of hurting religious and racial sentiments and those which have the potential to create religious and racial misunderstanding.United Sikhs Malaysia
Other people criticised the negative portrayals too
According to Malay Mail, netizens on social media also pointed out the controversial portrayal of minority communities in the blockbuster film.
Opposition lawmakers who helped promote the film by hosting free screenings found themselves receiving the heat from netizens too.
Pakatan Harapan leaders had to defend themselves for promoting the film despite its problematic portrayal of non-Muslim characters.
Many DAP leaders have screened it for free in their constituencies. We want to promote the importance of [supporting a] local production.Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii told Malaysiakini
A scene from the film.
On the other hand, Hang Tuah Jaya MP Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Md Akin spoke in support of the film.
He pointed out that the main themes of the film – fighting against unfair taxation and against traitors – remain relevant today.
These two areas remain relevant to our political context if we were to interpret elements in the movie. In any struggle, there will be traitors and we must be constantly vigilant to fight them. We can’t allow any leader to act like the British colonizers.Hang Tuah Jaya MP Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Md Akin

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


The World Is Producing Way More Medical Waste, Including Malaysia

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

Malaysia records a surge in clinical waste products created by the onset of the Corvid-19 pandemic.
Environment and Water Minister Datuk Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man explained that the increase in contaminated garbage was due to the higher usage of personal protective equipment (PPE) and, we assume, copious amounts of bodily fluids or other infectious materials disposed of during the pandemic.
A world of contaminants
With hundreds of recorded cases and thousands of coronavirus tests being done across the country each day, our medical waste byproduct jumped to 27% compared to the previous 17% increase reported in February.
Nations around the world have been overloaded with medical waste products as healthcare facilities saw an influx of patients and deaths since the crisis began.
Piles of medical waste outside of a hospital in Wuhan, China. The country reportedly produced 6 times more clinical waste during the peak of the outbreak in the region.(Credit: SCMP)
Concerningly there is also a worry that the virus is spreading through contaminated waste outside of the healthcare environment as people yet to be identified with the infection could still spread the disease with the trash that they throw out.
Research has shown that the virus can persist on objects up to a day or longer. However, if contaminated materials are appropriately taken care of, the risk of spread is greatly minimized.
The Environment Ministry assured Malaysians that our waste products are being managed and disposed of properly to avoid damaging the environment as well as further exacerbating the outbreak.
Cleaner water
Although the Covid-19 virus has not been detected in drinking-water supplies, Malaysiaâ€™s water treatment facilities will be upping their efforts to make sure that the nationâ€™s hydration source is safe.
The National Water Services Commission (SPAN) has directed all state water operators to increase the chlorine content in the nation’s treated water supply from 0.2 parts per million (ppm) to 0.5 ppm.
Chlorine is normally used as part of the sanitation process for sewage and industrial waste as well as found in a number of households materials.(Credit: Malay Mail)
According to Tuan Ibrahim, the increase was made in line with World Health Organisation (WHO) provisional guidelines during such times of crisis.
Studies have shown that the virus could remain infectious in water contaminated with feces for up to weeks.
But based on current scientific evidence, the risk of the virus contaminating large scale water supplies is relatively low.

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

Source:
More clinical waste in Feb, March - Tuan Ibrahim
The COVID-19 pandemic is generating tons of medical waste
How long can Covid-19 survive on surfaces?
Water, sanitation, hygiene and waste management for COVID-19


Malaysia And Singapore Freestyle Relay Teams Disqualified After Winning Silver And Gold

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

The Malaysian and Singaporean swimming teams lost a silver and gold medal, respectively, after getting disqualified in the men’s 4x100m freestyle relay event at the SEA Games last night (14 May).

According to New Straits Times, both teams were disqualified for early starts at the Aquatic Sports Palace in Hanoi, Vietnam.
Based on initial results, the Singapore team comprised of Joseph Schooling, Mikkel Lee, Quah Zheng Wen and Jonathan Tan finished first with a time of 3:17.19 seconds.
The Malaysia team comprised of Welson Sim, Lim Yin Chuen, Khiew Hoe Yean and Arvin Shaun Singh Chahal, came in second with a time of 3:20.13s, faster than the national record of 3:21:06s set in the 2018 Asian Games.
Due to the disqualification of both teams, Vietnam, who won third place (3:21:81s), has been awarded the gold medal. Indonesia (3:24.090s) and Thailand (3:24.280s) were awarded silver and bronze respectively.

According to Malaysiakini, national coach Chris Martin said a check with the Omega timing system showed that one of the swimmers plunged 0.12s earlier into the pool.
We are very disappointed because it was a very outstanding relay, a national record time by a lot, but this is what happens, we were overexcited. I told them that missing this medal should make them more determined to step up in the individual events and show that they’re capable.Malaysia national coach Chris Martin
Over in Singapore, its national head coach Gary Tan told The Straits Times that the disqualification was based on a technicality and it’s not anyone’s fault.
Gary also added that it’s hard to protest the result.
It’s based off a technicality, it’s very tough to make that protest even though we were trying to find a reason and wanted to make sure that this was not an issue of a technical error. I don’t want to put it in a bad way, but there have been a lot of problems with what’s been happening technically on the ground here. We work with whatever the circumstance is and we work with it.Singapore national head coach Gary Tan

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


MCO2.0: Extended Until 4th March In KL, Selangor, Johor, Penang Only

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

The movement control order (MCO) has been extended for another two weeks until the 4th of March. This extension will apply only to states which have still seen high numbers of daily new cases, namely Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Johor, and Penang.

For all other states, the last day of the MCO will be on 18th February. They will then enter the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) which will last from 19th February until 4th March. These states include:
SabahPahangNegeri SembilanTerengganuKelantanPerakMelakaKedahLabuanPutrajaya
Perlis and Sarawak will remain under Recovery MCO (RMCO).
Additionally, the 10KM travel restriction has also been lifted.
READ MORE: MCO: No More 10KM Travel Limit, Says Ismail Sabri
More information to come.

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


These KTMB Services Will Be Suspended From Wednesday

In another move to curb the movements of Malaysians during the 2-week restricted movement order (RMO), Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) has announced that it will be suspending some of its services.
From Wednesday (25th March) onwards, the interstate and intercity train services will cease to operate, affecting the Ekspres Rakyat Timuran, Ekspres Selatan and the Tebrau Shuttle services until the end of the RMO.
According to New Straits Times, KTMB chief executive officer Datuk Ir Kamarulzaman Zainal explained that only two ETS (Electric Train Service) and two intercity services would remain in daily operation.
Thatâ€™s not all though, several other train services are also affected by the RMO with reduced operations:
KTM Komuter – reduced to 49 services a day for the Klang Valley and north sectorSkypark Link – reduced to 4 services dailyExpress Rail Link (ERL) – KLIA Ekspres and KLIA Transit combined service at 30-minute intervals, 6 am – 10 am & 5 pm – 10 pm dailyLRT, MRT, monorail – Off peak 30-minutes and peak 10-minute intervals, 6 am – 10 am & 5 pm – 10 pm daily
If youâ€™re affected by the KTMB service alterations, you can amend or cancel tickets online HERE.

 Let us know how the altered train operations affect you & keep updated with us on TRPâ€™s Facebook, Twitter, and Telegram!

Source:
Covid-19: KTMB suspends interstate, intercity train services
KTMB to suspend interstate, intercity train services effective Wednesday
Prasarana to limit its public transport services beginning Wednesday


Floods: Michelle Yeoh Goes Down To The Field To Join The Cleanup Work

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

Famous Malaysian actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh makes everything look cool including cleaning up after a flood.

She spent the Christmas holidays by participating in the post-flood clean-up work in Taman Sri Muda, Shah Alam.
The Hollywood star, most recently seen on the big screen in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and Crazy Rich Asian, was also with Malaysian businessman and investor Tan Sri Vincent Tan.
Also present was Armed Forces chief Gen Tan Sri Affendi Buang.
(From left) Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh, Gen Tan Sri Affendi Buang and Tan Sri Vincent Tan at the cleanup. (Source: Facebook)
Astro Awani reported that the two personalities participated in the post-flood clean-up work with a team of 502 Territorial Soldiers under the 4th Malaysian Infantry Division (4 Div).
The cleanup was participated by Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) and the Taiwan Buddhist Tzu-Chi Malaysia Foundation.
It’s the real Christmas spirit. Thank you all. I am very touched to see the people who are together here regardless of religion, race or nationality who came down to help the flood victims.Actress Michelle Yeoh on the solidarity shown by Malaysians
Rubbish are now everywhere in Taman Sri Muda, with more to be cleared. (Credit: Fernando Fong)
Taman Sri Muda was one of the worst hit areas in Selangor during the recent floods.
Its residents, who had been left helpless for two days before help finally came, are now facing the mammoth task of cleaning up the mud and destruction left behind.
READ MORE: Taman Sri Muda Folks Helpless For Two Days: Residents Said There’s No Rescue Despite 999 Calls
Taman Sri Muda residents drying their clothes on the rooftop in the aftermath of the flood. (Credit: Fernando Fong)

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


Local Artist Lands Collaboration Project With Uniqlo For Cat Themed T-shirt Collection

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

A Malaysian artist has recently been recognised for his cute cat art by landing a collaboration with popular Japanese clothing brand Uniqlo.
Speaking to Malay Mail, Kamwei Fong says that he considers this achievement to be one of the best in his career as an artist.
This collaboration is considered another great achievement added to my career as an artist. I’m Malaysian but I’m not really active in the local art scene.Kamwei Fong via Malay Mail
         View this post on Instagram           Hi peeps, my collaboration with @uniqlo is finally launched! "Cats are Purrfect!" is a UT collection full of love for cats drawn by cat lovers! Two Kitties tees of mine will be made available at Uniqlo selected stores across the globe 🌏🌎🌍 Starting with Japan 🇯🇵, the US 🇺🇸 and other countries in April 2020: . Japan 🇯🇵 https://www.uniqlo.com/jp/store/feature_mb/uq/fe_list/ut/cats-are-purrfect/women#concept . US 🇺🇸 https://www.uniqlo.com/us/en/ut-graphic-tees/cats-are-purrfect . Following by Malaysia 🇲🇾 in May! Do check out your respective country Uniqlo websites for information on the launch dates. Maybe there will be delays in certain locations due to the current situation, in that case, you can also check it out online. Stay home and stay safe everyone ♥😊🙏🏻⚡ . . About the artist: . Malaysian artist, Kamwei Fong works mainly on the animal world, his creations are often described as poetic, humourous and imaginative. The Furry Thing is a series of furry animal illustrations created since early 2009. Using only fine line pen, Kamwei creates each fluffy creature with innumerable hairlines in a contextual isolation form and minimalist style. . . There are also other awesome tees from @izuruaminaka_illustration @masillustra @tiffanycooper_ which are part of this collection 👏🏻⚡ . . Updates: Uniqlo UT “Cats are Purrfect!” is now in Japan 🇯🇵, Malaysia 🇲🇾, Canada 🇨🇦, UK 🇬🇧, France 🇫🇷, Russia 🇷🇺, Taiwan 🇹🇼, Hong Kong 🇭🇰, South Korea 🇰🇷, Spain 🇪🇸, Germany 🇩🇪, Italy 🇮🇹, Denmark 🇩🇰, Sweden 🇸🇪, Vietnam 🇻🇳 and more to come! . . . #tshirt #uniqlo #collaboration #artistlovescat #kamweifong #kamweiatwork #catsarepurrfect #staysafe A post shared by  Kamwei Fong (@kamweiatwork) on Apr 1, 2020 at 9:41am PDT
Kamwei joins three other illustrators — Parisian author Tiffany Cooper, Japanese artist Izuru Aminaka, and Stockholm-based graphic designer Marie Ahfeldt on Uniqlo’s feline-themed T-shirt collection, aptly named “Cats are Purrfect”.
The collection was launched in June here in Malaysia and is already available in numerous countries across the globe, including Japan, Canada, the United Kingdon, France, Taiwan, Hong Kong, South Korea, Vietnam, Russia, Germany, and many more.
Kamwei’s work mainly consists of cute minimalist drawings of animals whose amazing personalities are brought to life through the lines created by a fine line pen.
Speaking about the personalities of his cat characters, Kamwei told Malay Mail that his felines are often described as poetic, humorous, imaginative, playful, and dream-like.
His most famous creation is arguably a series called The Furry Thing, which consist of these irresistible illustrations of extremely fluffy kitties.
All the kitties in The Furry Thing series have the same DNA, they’re quirky, funny, mysterious, sometimes angry and ridiculous.Kamwei Fong via Malay Mail
         View this post on Instagram           😷🙏🏻♥🌏🌎🌍❌🦠 . . #cat #kitty #art #illustration #mask #coronavirus #besafe A post shared by  Kamwei Fong (@kamweiatwork) on Mar 16, 2020 at 9:36am PDT
One of the felines in this series, Kitty No. 25, is included in Uniqlo’s collection.
According to Kamwei, The Furry Thing came about accidentally back in 2009 and the process of creating the characters felt like meditation which helped him stay focused.
Cats are cool, mysterious creatures with strong characteristics, and my minimalist style cat drawings which often go without mouth, paws, nose, whiskers are my interpretation and imagination of them.Kamwei Fong via Malay Mail
Admitting that he does love all things round and chubby, Kamwei shared that sometimes he draws skinny cats and other animals too.
In the past, Kamwei’s work has been exhibited at the Salon des Beaux Arts in Paris, France, as well as at the Art Expo in Malaysia. Currently, his original art pieces, prints, and ceramic sculptures can be found at the Galerie Club Sensible in Paris.
         View this post on Instagram           4 pieces of my originals are available at @clubsensible Paris 🇫🇷 😊😊😊⚡⚡Kitty No.38, 41, 49&53 ✨✨✨ . . #originalartwork #handdrawn #micropigmentink #finelineart #kitty #cat #kamweifong #clubsensible #inkonpaper #felineart #catillustration A post shared by  Kamwei Fong (@kamweiatwork) on May 25, 2020 at 8:43am PDT
Kamwei worked as a creative in the advertising, design, and branding industries in Petaling Jaya and Kuala Lumpur for almost 20 years before he became a fulltime artist in 2017.
To see more of Kamwei’s cute and fluffy kitties, check out his Instagram page.

For more updates on Covid-19, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!


KidZania’s New Partnership Brings More Fun For Children During The Year-End School Break

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

Not sure what to do with the children during the year-end school holidays? Let them have all-out fun at KidZania Kuala Lumpur after huddling in front of their computers at home for a year.

Over the years, KidZania has successfully combined learning and entertainment in an 80,000-square-feet scaled replica of a real functioning city.
Children at KidZania get to enjoy over 40 role-playing activities and learn about jobs, money, and the real world while developing essential life skills that simply cannot be taught in classrooms.
New activities at KidZania
KidZania Malaysia has been recently acquired by the world-renowned Sim Leisure Group.
Its new partnership with Inter Mark Resources Sdn Bhd brings in three industry partners to enrich the family’s experience in the facility.
The three industry partners are none other than A&W, Subway, and Jamaica Blue Coffee.
Children get to assemble their own Subway sandwich or A&W coney dogs at KidZania in this new partnership.
With these additions, the children get hands-on experience in operating and managing a fast-food outlet such as A&W and Subway.
The children also get to don on aprons and assemble their own coney dogs, Subway sandwiches, and pour their own root beer.
While the children are having fun, parents can enjoy a cup of coffee and other refreshments at the Jamaica Blue Coffee outlet located at the Parents’ Lounge.
Our decision to be part of KidZania was not a difficult one to make. We realise the huge benefit KidZania offers to children to discover and learn while having tons fun in the process. We believe that the inclusion of A&W, Subway, and Jamaica Blue Coffee at KidZania will add significant value to visitors’ experience.George Ang, Founder and Group CEO of Inter Mark Resources Sdn. Bhd.
Getting tickets is also now easier. Under the new ownership and management, the facility’s ticketing system has been fully digitised for greater efficiency and control.
Families can also purchase their tickets at www.kidzania.com.my

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


Refugee Accused Of Extorting Parking Money In KL

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

The issues involving Rohingya refugees in this country continue to stir public discontent.

Every day there are problems allegedly caused by the Rohingya that arouse the anger and dissatisfaction of the local people.
In a short video that went viral, a group of Rohingya is accused of acting like thugs and collecting parking money from the public in Jalan Petaling, Kuala Lumpur.
  @apek88luke Dah bagi peha nak betis plakk Rohingya ni.. ♬ original sound  – Apek88Luke
The video was uploaded by a TikTok user named @apek88luke.
He said the parking fee of RM20 demanded by the Rohingya is ridiculous.
At the time of writing, the TikTok video has garnered more than 45,000 total views.
Meanwhile, netizens said law enforcement agencies should take this incident seriously to prevent more social problems.
They pointed out that Rohingya refugees are rampant in the busy areas of the capital and hoped the law enforcement agencies would take action and prevent this group from becoming arrogant and ignoring the country’s laws.
Netizens also urge motorists not to back down, as giving in to the Rohingya will only encourage them to continue collecting parking money.
Why Do Some Malaysians Hate Rohingyas So Much?
The Rohingya are a Muslim minority group in Myanmar who have faced persecution and discrimination for many years.
Many have fled to neighbouring countries such as Bangladesh, Malaysia, and Thailand to seek refuge.
In Malaysia, there has been a mixed response to the Rohingya refugees, with some expressing support and solidarity while others hold negative attitudes towards them.
READ MORE: Rohingya Refugees Face Envy And Fear In Malaysia
  @otamblurrrrr SAPE ADE KES DENGAN ROHINGYA ?? Biadap lah diorg ni.Plzz lahhhh wehh!! Aku x paham diorg ni!! Memula bg adik dia Rm1…pastu kakak dia dtg,pastu mak dia dtg ketok2 tingkap.ehhhhh benak aku!! Takde tindakan ke kat diorg ni weh!! Pihak berkait mengenai isu ni tak kan lah xde solusi.Sampai dh berani2 main ketok tingkap n paksa2 bg duit.. ♬ Sikok Bagi Duo – Meli Dedi
  @mnhelmy Lain kenderaan lain harga.. mula2 kesian.. lepastu ? Mat pun pening  #DUYONGkita #ybMatDuyong #melaka #rohingya #fyp #trending ♬ original sound  – Mohd. Noor Helmy
Pernah dapat customer from Rohingya.Dia otw renew kad UNCHR kt KL. Dia cerita dekat aku perjalanan dia mai ke Malaysia dulu.Dia kat sini since 2014.Nak seludup masuk ke Malaysia ni satu kepala tekong caj 5k.Transit kt Siam.Tapi tekong tu dah kena tangkap katanya. 😂 https://t.co/QpmshXPujR— HAS Shaqkiri 🔴🍭🦅🇲🇾 (@hashaqkiri7) February 3, 2023
Some Malaysians may view the Rohingya refugees as a burden on the country’s resources as they compete for jobs and housing with the local population.
Additionally, there have been reports of crimes committed by some Rohingya refugees, which have led to negative perceptions of the group.
However, it is important to note that not all Malaysians hold negative views towards the Rohingya.
Many individuals and organizations in Malaysia have assisted and supported the refugees, recognizing their plight and offering humanitarian aid.

Ultimately, the issue of the Rohingya in Malaysia is complex and multifaceted, and opinions on the matter vary widely among the population.
READ MORE: [Watch] Man Angrily Confronts Rohingya Taking Over Selayang Market
READ MORE: United Nations Must Intervene, India Deporting Rohingya Back To Myanmar [Opinion]

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


FT Minister Questions Own Ministry: Jalan Palestin Should Replace Other Road Names, Not Raja Laut 1

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

Yesterday, it was announced by DBKL that Jalan Raja Laut 1 has been changed to Jalan Palestin.

Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Nor Hisham Ahmad Dahlan notes that the idea for the name change came from the World Quds Day peaceful assembly held at the Kuala Lumpur City Hall Square on May 26 to 31 last year.

The move symbolises Malaysia’s support for the Palestinian people’s struggle against oppression, and was requested by the Federal Territories Ministry to name one road in the city as Jalan Palestin.
When the new name was revealed, however, many were taken by surprise. It caused a bit of a buzz as many balked at the decision, stating that Jalan Raja Laut has historical ties.
It’s this one, not that one.(Credit: Twitter/Azrul Mohd Khalib)
Even Federal Territories Minister Annuar Musa himself seemed to be surprised at the reveal, asking why a road named after a historical Malay figure was chosen to be replaced instead of a road with an English name.
Saya tiada halangan nak makan jln Di KL Jalan Palestine,tanda sokongan KL kpd perjuangan pembebasan AL QUDS.Namun sy maukan penjelasan kenapa pilih tukar nama JLN RAJA LAUT,nama besar Sejarah Melayu Dan KL.Kenapa tak tukar nama Inggeris spt JLN STONOR,JLN CONLAY,COCHRANE ROAD DLL https://t.co/8obBy4COcM— Annuar Musa (@AnnuarMusa) September 27, 2020
However, Malaysians can relax and put down their pitchforks. Jalan Raja Laut as we know it will still be called Jalan Raja Laut.
The road getting a name change is Jalan Raja Laut 1, a small side road off the main road next to the KWSP building. Majority of the public are unaware of the name of this road that links Jalan Raja Laut and Lorong Gombak, and even Google Maps names the road as Jalan Bunus.
Relax guys, it’s just this small road being renamed.(Credit: Google Maps)
In DBKL’s official statement, they even cautiously ended their announcement with a reminder that the name change will only affect this small road, not the main Jalan Raja Laut.
Guess DBKL knows Malaysians pretty well!

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


Sugar tax on bubble tea & teh tarik too, say public health experts

As most of you would know, July started off on a not-so-sweet note with the implementation of the new sugar tax.
Currently, the tax applies to three categories of PRE-PACKAGED sweetened beverages;(1) Carbonated drinks(2) Fruit & Vegetable juices(3) Milk based drinks

Picture Credit: Malay Mail

However, the Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy – an independent public policy research and advocacy organisation- isnâ€™t very impressed by the move.
They want the sugar tax to cover ALL drinks with high sugar content.
Yep, that includes the mamak staple, teh tarik and SS15 staple bubble tea.

via GIPHY
Azrul Khalib, CEO of the organisation, told Free Malaysia Today (FMT) that the majority of Malaysians get their sugar through made-to-order drinks, not bottled or canned beverages.

Azrul Khalib,  CEO of Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy (Picture Credit: Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy)

He is particularly concerned about bubble tea, pointing out the depressing results of an experiment by students at Temasek Polytechnic, Singapore who found a cup of brown sugar boba milk has three times more sugar than a can of Coke.

With the seemingly endless popularity of such sugary drinks, Azrul has little confidence in Malaysian consumers to change their habits.

â€œThe truth is we cannot depend on Malaysian consumers to change and adopt healthy choices and habits.
Older individuals and those who have had high-sugar diets for years are unlikely to change their habits. They are relatively insensitive to price increases.â€
Azrul Khalib, CEO of Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy via FMT

Picture Credit: dopl3r

To combat this, he says the government needs to do more to promote health literacy among Malaysians.
While nobody likes taxes, itâ€™s a move thatâ€™s long overdue, considering the fact that Malaysia has the largest waistline in Southeast Asia.

How to stop? We’re just to teh tarik to it…Picture Credit: Tourism Malaysia Blog

Currently, the government has said that the revenue for the
sugar tax will be used to fund health programmes in schools to raise awareness
and fight diet-related diseases such as obesity and diabetes.


Netflix Docu Series Explores Terrifying Mystery Of MH370

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

What happened to Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370?

This has been the question in the minds of almost everyone for the past nine years.
“MH370: The Plane That Disappeared” is a docuseries that will explore the unsolved disappearance of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 after it mysteriously disappeared mid-flight.
To this day, no one is sure what happened to MH370 but this documentary will shed some light on some of the major theories, as well as what happened before and after the flight disappeared from radar.
The new docuseries will premiere on Wednesday, March 8, 2023, which marks nine years since the aircraft went missing.
To tease the audience, Netflix shared a sneak peak of the show, which in return garnered mixed reactions from netizens globally.

In 2014, Malaysian Airlines Flight 370 — and the 239 souls on board — vanished.  Nine years later, we still don't know what happened or who is responsible… MH370: The Plane That Disappeared premieres March 8 pic.twitter.com/1YfJmQ9ss2— Netflix (@netflix) February 15, 2023

Intan Maizura Othaman, wife of MH370 flight crew Mohd Hazrin Mohamed, also shared a short TikTok video of herself on Instagram asking Malaysians to tune in on March 8 when the docuseries releases.
Many Malaysians commented under her TikTok post, saying that they would definitely tune in while others left thoughts and prayers for her late husband.
Meanwhile on Twitter, some seemed almost excited and nostalgic for the docuseries. However, others questioned what good this would bring to anyone.
Malaysian Twitter user @shf_jr said:
I as a Malaysian still feel deeply saddened by the tragedy and feel sorry for the victim’s families until now. When I was 17, I waited everyday in front of my TV to hear any good news on this airplane. Even sadder, the victim’s car was still at KLIA covered in dust till now.@shf_jr on Twitter
Another Twitter user @blackispeg said he was excited to watch the documentary despite it not being able to give any answers.
Truly how does a plane vanish without explanation? I’m very interested in seeing this documentary even if there are no answers.@blackispeg on Twitter
On the other hand, some netizens also questioned the need for this docuseries given that this issue has been a huge question mark since the very beginning.
Twitter user @sampenfoldd said:
How are you gonna make a show about an event we know nothing about? Make it make sense.@sampenfoldd on Twitter
While Twitter user @balto0410 said:
Since we know nothing about what happened, what is the point of the series after all?@balto0410 on Twitter
Others also hoped that this docuseries would benefit the victims’ families financially.
Twitter user @BethHoller said:
I hope the victims’ families get to benefit financially from this documentary. I will probably watch this as it looks interesting.@BethHoller on Twitter
Will you be tuning in on March 8?

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