The Star Malaysia

Who has the right to lead?

With just days to nomination for the Johor polls, the dispute between Bersatu and PAS has come down to who has the right over leadership in Perikatan Nasional. Analysts warn that the tussle is hurting the coalition’s chances in both upcoming state...

Turning grit to gold

From Braille notes to Ai-powered revision, STPM’S top scorers proved that determination matters more than circumstance. As Form Six students record stronger results nationwide, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek says efforts to strengthen the...

More CCTVS in public places

PETALING JAYA: Independent audits and clear rules governing access to CCTV footage are needed to ensure public confidence in surveillance systems with privacy data, say cybersecurity lawyers. Cybersecurity expert Fong Choong Fook said public concern...

Dignity for all

Nazrin Shah PERKESO Rehabilitation Centre An aerial view of the newly-opened Sultan in Meru Raya, Ipoh.

Peace deal lifts market sentiment

Markets rallied after a Us-iran ceasefire eased tensions, lowered oil prices and raised Asian equities. However, Malaysia’s gains will depend on lasting peace, political stability and its ability to attract foreign investment.

Wooing thegenz

Young voters in Johor and Negri Sembilan may turn the tide in marginal seats in the coming state polls. Making up nearly a third of eligible voters in both states, analysts say a big turnout can tilt the balance to either side.

Deadline to deliver

Public hospitals have been given three months to come up with a plan to manage overcrowding at emergency wards. As for health facilities facing a manpower crisis, they have resorted to reorganising their resources.

Staggered dates, higher turnout expected

JOHOR VOTES JULY 11: Nomination day is June 27 for the state’s 2.7 million registered voters NEGRI VOTES AUG 1: Nomination day is July 18 for the state’s 889,490 registered voters EC SEPARATES POLLS: Logistics and worker training issues force...

High-rise rules fail kids

Recent child tragedies have intensified debate over Malaysia’s inadequate building safety framework, as experts press for stronger safeguards to prevent further falls.

‘We’re coming for you’

The Prime Minister wants a coordinated effort by all relevant authorities to crack down on foreigners who do business here illegally. Lauding the move, local businesses are also calling for stricter penalties for Malaysians in cahoots with these...

Cops brace for cyber betting

As Malaysian football fans gear up for the 2026 World Cup, the police are bracing for a massive surge in illegal gambling as bookies shift their operations to online platforms. They warn that authorities are on high alert for tech-savvy punters looking...

Supporting local businesses

Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan (right) conversing with a small business trader while underscoring the power of domestic spending during his visit to the Kelana Jaya Morning Market as part of the Microcredit Outreach programme.

Royal drama in Negri

It was a day of drama and confusion as Tunku Nadzaruddin Tuanku Ja’afar was proclaimed as the 12th Yang di-pertuan Besar of Negri Sembilan, at a hotel in Melaka. As the state gets ready for election, constitutional experts say a quick resolution is...

Stamp of approval

PETALING JAYA: Frequent Malaysian travellers have largely welcomed the government’s new 10-year passport, describing it as a more convenient and costeffective alternative to the current five-year passport. Data processing manager Atikah Razak, 33, who...

States in motion

The Johor polls are expected to be a crowded affair, with many parties, including two new political outfits – Gerakan Reset and Parti Bersama Malaysia – joining the fray. Meanwhile, talk that the Negri Sembilan state assembly will be dissolved is...

Calls to keep track of priorities

PETALING JAYA: Much work remains to improve the reliability of Malaysia’s rail system, in particular the urban network managed by Prasarana Malaysia Bhd through its subsidiary, Rapid Rail Sdn Bhd, says Prof Dr Chua Kein Huat, chair of UTAR’S Centre for...

A royal reminder for all

Any Malaysian who rejects the principles of the Rukun Negara does not deserve to be called a citizen, says His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, who urges the rakyat to uphold its five pillars. The King also calls on politicians to exercise...

Shady slimming solutions

Illegal ads touting an experimental drug are popping up online, triggering a warning from the Health Ministry. Experts say taking retatrutide, which is still undergoing clinical trial, could prove to be deadly.

All ready for the sacred day

Sian Chye Tong Youth Section chairman Loh Choon Teik arranging oil lamps in preparation for Wesak Day at Sian Chye Tong Temple in Hye Keat Estate in Penang.

Perfect timing

Performers in traditional costumes performing the Magunatip dance in conjunction with the Kaamatan celebrations in Kota Kinabalu. The Harvest Festival will be celebrated in Sabah today and tomorrow.

Get to the rail issues

PETALING JAYA: A special task force has been formed to investigate the LRT train derailment incident near the Chan Sow Lin station, which severely impacted rail services yesterday, says Anthony Loke (pic). The Transport Minister said the task force...

Strength through sacrifice

KUALA LUMPUR: Muslims should make sacrifice a fundamental tenet in overcoming challenges and building a stronger future for the nation, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. In a message to mark Hari Raya Aidiladha, the Prime Minister said the significance...

Banned vapes go underground

Illegal devices and liquids have moved into web platforms with invite-only networks to bypass laws on potentially dangerous products. Advocates warn of severe health risks while legal businesses say this shadowy trade undermines those abiding by...

Searing heat, sudden floods

Urban heat island and climate change fuel downpours, say experts. Malaysia, they stress, needs more climateresilient urban planning that integrates infrastructure, drainage and environmental considerations. Meanwhile, p-hailing riders and hawkers say...

Ills of having no will

The total amount in frozen inheritance assets and unclaimed money has surged past the Rm100bil mark, with possessions of the deceased not distributed smoothly due to a lack of estate planning. As for uncollected funds, amounts range from small sums up...

Taking the future image of health

According to a Health Ministry circular, Radiation Protection Officers – those who manage the technical aspects, procedures and radiation protection measures in hospitals or clinics – must attend a training course before Jan 1, 2028, for operational...

Protecting kids in cyberspace

Online platforms face up to Rm10mil in fines under strict new online child safety regulations. While parent advocates hail the mandatory ‘safety-by-design’ shift, experts caution that data privacy risks and enforcement loopholes could still derail the...

Checking banking fraud

Rising Ai-driven scams are prompting calls for stronger bank verification systems to safeguard customers’ accounts. A court ruling highlighting gaps in banks’ fraud detection systems only highlights this issue and places the onus on financial...

Gout pain hits the young

Sugary drinks, processed food and sedentary lifestyles have driven gout cases up by over 21% in three decades, with younger Malaysians affected. Sufferers say a drop of water on the skin can feel like a stab – yet Malaysia faces a shortage of...

Faulty wire danger

Old and outdated electrical wiring poses a threat to over 25,000 pre-war buildings in the country, with Penang alone recording 14 fires in heritage buildings since 2020 due to wiring issues. The Fire and Rescue Department and experts recommend frequent...

A bouquet of woes

Persistent downpours in Cameron Highlands have hit flower growers hard, affecting harvests, raising costs and weakening demand. Florists say disrupted supplies of locally cultivated flowers have increased reliance on imports and prompted concerns over...

Tactical tourism move

Tourism Malaysia will shift its focus to Asia-pacific markets to make up for a drop in Middle East tourists due to the ongoing conflict there. Meanwhile, new international and regional flights to Malaysia and the staging of mega events will help boost...

A+ photo moment

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim mingling with educators at the 55th national-level Teachers Day celebration in Ipoh, Perak.

Stopped in their tracks

Bukit Aman’s fight against international online scam syndicates is gaining ground with the arrest of 187 suspects and seizure of Rm57.68mil worth of assets under Ops Teguh 2.0. The seized items included 20 luxury vehicles valued at Rm6.58mil.

Global giants hold talks

Children waving Chinese and US flags as US President Donald Trump takes part in a welcome ceremony with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Trump’s China trip sets the stage for crucial talks with Xi on trade and...

Safety matters on the trail

Hiking may be one of the most rewarding ways to stay active, but experienced trekkers say safety should never be overlooked. From carrying the right gear to knowing one’s physical limits, proper preparation can make all the difference in the outdoors,...

Market forces at work

While food price movements remain under control in Malaysia, statistics show a drop in the price of staples like local white rice but an increase in common ingredients such as coconut. Cutting import dependence is vital to tackling food inflation, say...

Old-age savings come first

While the newly introduced i-legasi allows EPF members aged 55 and above to transfer a portion of their savings to the accounts of immediate family, experts say contributors must first ensure they have enough for their own financial security.

Don’t make smoking cool

Women in full force

KUALA LUMPUR: Their mothers once rocked the cradle, now these daughters are crafting heartfelt gifts by hand in tribute to Mothers Day. Property manager Vanitha Vadivelu said she decided to paint a batik portrait for her mother, Kannagy Palanisamy,...

Asean seeks to cushion effects of energy crisis

Amid pressure on their economies, Asean leaders are calling for a coordinated response to the impacts of the Middle East conflict. On Malaysia’s part, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has proposed that the relevant ministers urgently explore the...

Shift from aid to ability

The Social Policy Action Plan 2026-2030 aims to move welfare beyond handouts by helping recipients become self-reliant and economically independent. Support groups say the focus must also be on widening opportunities so vulnerable communities are not...

A killing heat

After two heatstroke deaths this year, organisers of sporting events are making sure that there are adequate water stations and medical support for participants. The unusually hot spell is also taking a toll on water levels at Kedah dams, while rivers...

Tighter rules on pest control

Fumigators and pest control companies will come under greater scrutiny under a new law to ensure higher safety standards in line with current technology. This is to replace the existing licensing law which has become outdated in checking on the use of...

Tracking the culprit

PETALING JAYA: A registry of domestic violence offenders must be set up to better protect victims, particularly women, says Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. The Women, Family and Community Development Minister emphasised the growing necessity of establishing...

Labour reform push

KUALA LUMPUR: New maternity support, widening social protection to workers abroad and a push for higher wages are among a slate of labour reforms aimed at strengthening workforce safety nets announced by the Prime Minister. Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim...

E-bike adoption stuck in the slow lane

While other electric vehicles gain traction, electric two-wheelers are sputtering. Experts are asking the government to boost the bikes with rebates, tax incentives and better charging infrastructure, as even a round trip from Johor to Singapore is...

Workshops that wheel and deal

It’s an old trick; you hear a knock in your car, send it to a workshop, and get hit with a huge bill for unnecessary repairs. Now, the industry is going digital, with apps that let you choose fixes and see prices upfront.

Abrupt exit

Boxes of files and documents areseenatthe office of a Barisan Nasional executive councillor. The exco members are vacating the premises following their decision to withdraw support for Aminuddin.

Catalytic converters new target of thieves

The car exhaust system’s component is coveted for prized rare metals. Authorities say being careful about parking locations and installing specialised shields can help reduce risk. >

Another attempt on Trump’s life

US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were rushed to safety after a gunman stormed a glitzy press gala in Washington. The venue erupted into chaos as shots rang out and guests dived for cover, with the suspect later detained on site.

Code red on hoaxes

On average, the Fire and Rescue Department receives a prank call every other day, wasting time, manpower and fuel. What may appear like a harmless joke could land the caller behind bars, or in a worst-case scenario, divert precious resources from...

‘Begging’ for better laws

KUALA LUMPUR: For many residents in the city centre, the presence of beggars has long been a familiar sight. However, a newer, more unsettling trend is emerging: groups of women, accompanied by young children, who are increasingly targeting passers-by...

Assembly on hold

Five empty seats beside the Negri Sembilan royal couple took the lustre away from the opening of the state legislative assembly. However, Yang di-pertuan Besar of Negri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir said the proceedings remained legitimate...

A recipe for success

From left: SMG group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt, Arnott’s Group senior regional marketing lead Vanessa Lim, Datuk Chef officer Datin Paduka Esther Wan and SMG chief content Ng stirring a batch of ‘spaghetti’ to mark the rebranding of Kuali,...

Assembly under the spotlight

After their controversial move to depose the Ruler, the four Undang of Negri Sembilan now want to have the Mentri Besar removed. This could throw a spanner in the works at the state legislative assembly, which will be opened by the Yang di-pertuan...

Ageing well begins early

Findings from the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2025 revealed that many Malaysian senior citizens are not ageing healthily, prompting the Health Ministry to strengthen its policy response, including expediting the Senior Citizens Bill. They also...

9,000 homeless in Batu Sapi

Barefoot and clutching only vital documents, families in a Sandakan settlement fled a terrifying blaze that engulfed 1,000 homes in minutes. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has pledged swift federal and state aid to the victims of the massive...

Seeking stable oil supply

In the midst of uncertainty in the Strait of Hormuz, PETRONAS is cleared to pursue Russian oil supply as Malaysia moves to secure stable imports. Meanwhile, a PETRONAS oil tanker (inset) has safely reached Johor after transiting the strait.

Falling for a con job

Job scams targeting school-leavers entering the workforce – particularly those aged 17 to 22 – are on the rise, according to police. Research shows many youth lack the skills to identify warning signs in online job offers, and experts want stronger...

Securing the home front

Malaysia will put its fuel needs first before channelling any surplus to Australia, as both sides tighten cooperation on energy and food security amid global uncertainty. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Australian Prime Minister Anthony...

No cover in war zones

The Middle East crisis has shown that standard travel insurance offers little protection in conflict zones, with war-related losses, injuries and evacuations excluded. Stranded Malaysians said it taught them to invest in comprehensive coverage and...

River quality under threat

As Malaysia officially enters a high-risk weather phase, experts are warning that low river levels caused by a prolonged dry spell can increase the concentration of pollutants in the water. Preventative measures such as cloud seeding operations will...

A touchy issue at work

JAYA: Addressing sexual harassment requires shifting from a reactive compliance model to a proactive, culturedriven approach, says the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF). Its president, Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman, said there should be clear...

Pumping up oversight

Mandatory audits for fuel retailers within 50km of the borders are being considered as part of an escalated crackdown on smuggling activities. Masterminds of these syndicates will also face charges under the Anti-money Laundering Act.

Cool moves on hot days

Giving out hats and towels, and theme parks encouraging night visits, are just some of the ways Malaysians are keeping cool. With the expected arrival of El Nino next month – and more sweltering days ahead – climatologists warn that cloud seeding can...

Enough in reserve

▪ Maritime safety: Oneofthe seven Malaysian tankers has cleared the Strait of Hormuz ▪ Economic support: Rm5bil in loan financing to help SMES navigate the Mideast conflict ▪ Healthcare security: National medicine stockpile confirmed stable until June

Ceasefire crisis

People in New York protesting the Us-israeli conflict with Iran and against attacks on Lebanon. Israel launched fresh strikes on Lebanon, putting the Middle East ceasefire in jeopardy. The renewed instability is felt through mounting economic pressure,...

Farewell, Dr Ling: A legacy of service remembered

More tributes and accolades poured in as former MCA president Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik was taken on his final journey before cremation in Nilai. Party stalwarts and many who turned up to pay their final respects said Dr Ling’s immense contributions will...

Cloud seeding lifts dam levels in north

Cloud-seeding efforts in Kedah and Perlis have begun to show results, with rainfall recorded and water levels improving, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Ahmad Zahid, who is also chairman of the National Disaster Management...

When a car becomes a burning issue

A parked car can turn into a fireball for many unexpected reasons, and the hot spell with dry grass is only worsening things. The Fire and Rescue Department is warning drivers to take precautions and ensure personal safety if a fire happens.

Drowning in fees

Many services now require a subscription, and the costs involved can quickly add up.

A fruitful home harvest

PETALING JAYA: In the quiet corners of ordinary homes, a subtle revolution is taking root. It does not roar like industry or gleam like high-tech innovation, yet it is reshaping how people think about food, health and self-reliance. One pot, one plot...

Fast-tracking justice

With thousands of fatal accidents yearly, authorities and experts are pushing for a special court to speed up serious cases, aiming for swifter justice and stronger deterrence. There is an urgent need as families like that of delivery rider Amirul...