Malaysian Domestic Trade Minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub passes away at 61

Malaysian Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister, Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub, aged 61, passed away on Sunday (23 Jul) at 9:23 pm. He was also a two-term MP for Pulai, Johor, and Deputy President of AMANAH, the National Trust Party (AMANAH), one of the component parties of Pakatan Harapan.

Tesla makes official debut in Malaysia with launch of first mid-sized SUV Model Y

Tesla has officially launched its Model Y mid-sized SUV in Malaysia, with three variants available. Potential buyers can inspect the models at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur until October 31. The first deliveries to customers will start in early 2024. Tesla will establish its headquarters in Cyberjaya, Sepang, and plans to set up experience centers, service centers, and supercharging stations in the country.

Swiss watchmaker Swatch sues Malaysia for seizure of Pride watches

Swatch Malaysia’s bid for a judicial review against the government’s seizure of 172 watches, including the Pride Collection series, will be heard by Malaysia’s apex court on 23 August. Swatch claims the seizure is illegal as the watches are not defined as a form of “publication” under the Printing Presses and Publication Act. They seek damages and the return of the watches, alleging that the government’s actions were politically motivated. This comes ahead of crucial regional polls, with tensions rising over LGBT rights in the country.

Deliberative democracy: A potential remedy for Malaysia’s political unrest

In a polarizing climate ahead of key state-level elections in Malaysia, simmering tensions surrounding race, religion, and royalty are reignited. The nation is caught between self-serving political factions and a growing populist trend. However, as Simone Galimberti’s interview with Dr. Mohd Azizuddin Mohd Sani reveals, the solution may lie in fostering deliberative democracy, a system promoting public discussion on contentious issues and reform.

RM2 for a plate of white rice and a thumb-sized fried chicken

A viral post showcased a disappointing school meal: RM2 for a thumb-sized fried chicken and white rice. Netizens debated the cost, with some suggesting parents should prepare meals at home for their children. Others focused on the poor quality and urged improvements in the school canteen.

Kedah Chief Minister Sanusi arrested and charged for seditious remarks against Selangor King

Muhammad Sanusi Md Noor, the caretaker Chief Minister of Kedah, was arrested at 3 am on Tuesday (18 Jul). He faced charges of making seditious remarks against the Sultan of Selangor in court that morning. The Selangor Royal Office considered his speech an insult to the Selangor Royal Institution.

Malaysian PM claims unity government free from corruption, ushering in new era

Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently declared that the unity government, under the watch of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and police, has remained entirely free from corruption since its inception eight months ago.

Human Rights Watch calls for urgent investigation into Myanmar activist’s abduction in Malaysia

Human Rights Watch has urged the Malaysian government to prioritise a thorough investigation into the abduction of Myanmar refugee activist Thuzar Maung and her family, highlighting the apparent global risks facing pro-democracy advocates.

Malaysian rubber tapper borrows RM120 to attend daughter’s straight-A celebration ceremony

Despite earning a scant salary as a rubber tapper, Jaliusih Madakol borrowed money to attend his daughter’s educational achievement ceremony. His daughter Arnie, the first from her school to achieve a perfect score in her STPM exams, aspires to lift her family out of poverty.

Anwar Ibrahim holds virtual meeting with SpaceX founder and CEO, Elon Musk

Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, engaged in a virtual meeting with SpaceX CEO Elon Musk on Friday (14 Jul) morning, discussing clean energy initiatives and the potential contribution of SpaceX’s Starlink satellite service to enhance internet connectivity in rural areas.