Apparently, Felda Global Ventures (FGV) had given him déjà vu. He said the problems uncovered by the Tabung Haji royal commission of inquiry were almost the same: assets bought at inflated prices, insufficient security, and inadequate due diligence.

That alone should worry us, because if we’ve seen this before, why didn’t anyone stop it? And who was supposed to?

FGV, 1MDB and its power asset acquisitions, Mara’s Melbourne property, Felda’s London hotel purchases, the littoral combat ships involving Boustead, and the Defence Ministry’s military land swaps.

And a succession of controversial investments by government-linked institutions, including Khazanah.

These cases are not identical. Some involve allegations, some poor investments, some questionable valuations, some governance failures, and some investigations into possible wrongdoing; but the questions sound remarkably familiar.

Who set the price? Who checked it? Who conducted the due diligence? Who raised concerns? Who had the power to stop it? More importantly, why didn’t they?

drkam : Najib initially envisioned 1MDB as Khazanah 2.0—a sophisticated sovereign wealth fund whose losses would be conveniently dismissed as calculated investment risks rather than governance failures. 

That carefully crafted narrative imploded when the fund was unmasked as his personal Ponzi scheme. Khazanah itself deserves the same rigorous, unflinching scrutiny that we demand of any public institution entrusted with the nation's money. This naturally raises a troubling question: if a forensic audit of Khazanah were ever conducted, what other mega-scandals might we unearth? 

Could we see echoes of the 1MDB power-asset deals, FGV's controversies, Mara's Melbourne property fiasco, Felda's London hotel purchases, Boustead's ill-fated littoral combat ship project, or the Defence Ministry's colossal military land swaps?

BOBBYO : That is why the people removed Umno from the administration, but it was brought back in to retaining their power or control of the nation. 60 over years of watching one scandal after another scandal unfold. 

Yet those involved walking away not with peanuts, but at times hundreds of millions disappeared in to their pockets or sent to be stashed away in some foreign banks. Call it by whatever name the abuse, but you can be assured that someone profited from this arrangement. 

The people had faith in PH to deliver. Clean this nation of the scoundrels and robbers, but due to political maneuvering by the leader PMX, the people were again disappointed. What we have unearthed can be considered just a tip of the iceberg. 

If an audit is done, you can be assured there is much more hidden underneath all the GLC's, GLIC's, Khazanah, EPF or even under the many Govt Agencies and departments. It will continue as long as Malaysians keep on voting in the same old leaders. 

Nothing will change as those appointed to positions of power in the Judiciary, PDRM, MACC or any department that is suppose to dish out justice are appointed by the same old corrupt leaders or opportunist. Think why have we lost millions of Malaysians to the other nations. 

Skilled professionals who left our shores. Due to the fact that they were tired of seeing their hard earned monies being abused. Realizing that they were in no position to stop the rot. 

So it is better to leave and find better prospects for themselves and their families. It will continue, if there is no leader elected that will take the bull by the horns and stop this abuse of the Treasury.

It's only a matter of time this "Indon" keeps Jibby in his company

The DAP national adviser said action was necessary to deter other ministries from committing similar offences that could jeopardise the country’s coffers and financial position.

“Zahid’s actions were irresponsible as they breached existing financial procedures and regulations, potentially warranting enforcement under the relevant laws.

“What Zahid (above, left) has done directly threatens financial security and economic stability. Imagine how serious and damaging the country’s financial situation would become if all government ministries were to act in the same manner, spending freely without considering whether the country could afford it?” he added in a statement.

Lim also questioned which contractors had benefited from contracts awarded by the Rural and Regional Development Ministry that resulted in spending exceeding approved allocations.

“Were these contractors selected in accordance with the rules? And were the contracts awarded through a transparent, open and accountable process?” he asked.

Lim said Zahid, as deputy prime minister, should set an example by practising thrift and financial prudence rather than doing the opposite.

“Clearly, Zahid allowed spending to exceed the approved allocations without due scrutiny and should provide a full explanation to the Malaysian people,” he added.

Veteran 1972 : I do not think PMX has the scrotal fortitude to take action against Zahid . He needs UMNO to prop him up as PKR is in a disarray. Matter of time before closing shop.

GrayPuffin9604 : If 40+ corruption is no case, what is overspending?

RedRaven6070 : What a spectacular piece of political miscalculation by AI They put Zahid in the ministry, presumably believing that his UMNO grassroots machinery could be harnessed to strengthen the Madani government. 

But instead of building Madani, Zahid appears to be building Zahid — using the position, government machinery and political patronage to rebuild and consolidate his own UMNO grassroots base. The masterstroke may have been giving Zahid the keys to the Madani machinery, only to discover that he was using it to rebuild the UMNO machine. 

In the end, AI may have achieved the exact opposite of what it intended: Madani provided the platform. Zahid is harvesting the political dividends.

BrownGoose2785 : Lim Guan Eng was right.Zahid's actions were totally irresponsible and broke existing financial rules and regulations. What he did poses a direct threat to our financial security and economic stability, and the government shouldn't compromise on this at all.

Mechi : Anwar, this is Karma. Umno was on the verge of being buried but you gave them another chance. Why? You refuse to listen to the strategist Rafizi & yr daughter Nurul. Now Zahid's sting getting stronger. Padan muka!!

Says the Dick who paid RM1.4m confidentially to settle suit

In his policy speech at the central PAS muktamar in Kota Bharu today, Hadi claimed that corruption issues in Malaysia are “frequently weaponised” as political ammunition to discredit opponents, rather than addressed as a “systemic evil” that must be eradicated. 

Clare confirms Hadi paid RM1.4m confidentially to settle suit

“This manifests as selective prosecution where political rivals are targeted, while misconduct within one’s own ranks is overlooked, whether involving the bribegiver, the recipient, or the intermediary facilitating the corrupt deal,” the Marang MP said.

While the Islamist party’s leader did not specify any individuals, he named the delayed release of the royal commission of inquiry’s report on Tabung Haji as an instance when issues were utilised during an election campaign to impact the public standing of those implicated.

“There have been shortcomings in the management of public funds and GLCs, which we severely regret,” Hadi said.

“Such issues should be brought before a court of law once adequate proof is established, instead of being litigated in the media or on political stages, and certainly not weaponised as campaign fodder to create public prejudice, as occurred with the Tabung Haji RCI issue.”

A Little Bit Crazy : Alamak President Hadi, Don't know why? Many commentators here do not like you because of the ways you paint black, accuse non Muslims. But, somehow, when I think unusually positive, I feel very proud to be a non Muslim. 

Because I found that you actually believe non Muslims in Malaysia can fly? In your brilliant eyes, you can see non Muslims can fly, fly, fly very fast and high? Non Muslims, can influence this and that national policies? 

PKR's President Government is dominated by non Muslims? Omg, I thought Umno dominate the Unity Government? Suddenly Umno is so useless in your Hadi eyes? Non Muslims give bribes, non Muslims do not respect Islam, non Muslims gamble, non Muslims cause disunity of Muslims, non Muslims control economy, non Muslims are the mother of all sins, non Muslims are very corrupted, non Muslims eat too much... ? 

Every problem under the Sun in Malaysia, is because of non Muslims? Non Muslims are supermen, can fly to Moon? Alamak President Hadi, all 13 State Rulers are Muslims, all PM, from I to X, are Muslims. All Chief Judges are Muslims. Islam is well protected in Malaysia la.

RZee : Billions and millions lost in TH and FELDA. All run and mismanaged by Malays for the Malays. Fashion valet involved khazanah. Again by Malays for the Malays. The list goes on.

Tiger62 : This confirms that PAS supports corruption. Against gambling and corruptions, PAS willing to accept corruption which is bane to our country but, can't accept gambling that affects society. Sympathize with people who believes with this old man with strange ideologies.

Mechi : Since when this 90 million man has praised the Govt. Consistently back lashing is not our culture. Praise when due & criticize when warranted. 

Don't be a back stabber. A really bad role model. Compared to the real late excellent spiritual leader Tuan Nik, this guy Hadi better start reading good books on effective leadership. He appears lost!!

spinnot : "Hadi today also claimed that under Pakatan Harapan chairperson Anwar's administration, the Malay-Muslim community has been put in a "precarious position" as the PKR president's government is "dominated by non-Muslim factions". 

" If "the PKR president's government" is really dominated by "non-Muslim factions", the UG most probably would have released the RCI report on TH 3 years ago. 

Probably it's "the Muslim faction" (Umno) in the UG which was the main factor in the delayed release of the RCI report. Take note that there is zero "non-Muslim faction" in the management of TH or in the audit of its financial statements.

He argued that his client should serve community service by providing free dental care to the poor three days a week for two years.

Having investigated and exposed several shenanigans under Khir’s watch for about 10 years, I disagreed, saying leniency sets a dangerous precedent - allowing a high-profile politician convicted of major corruption to avoid jail time by cleaning teeth would make a mockery of the justice system.

The punishment, I had then argued in my regular column, must fit the crime. I asserted that white-collar criminals and corrupt politicians should not be given soft alternative punishments that are unavailable to ordinary citizens caught stealing small sums.

Exile : Justice must be decided in court, not bargained for in public. Equally fundamental is the presumption of innocence. Yet we have seen accused persons brought to court in orange lock-up clothing and handcuffs, creating an image of guilt before trial, while others arrive at the MACC surrounded by an entourage, projecting power and privilege. 

Neither spectacle belongs in the administration of justice. An accused person is not a convicted person, regardless of wealth, status or politics. The same dignity, restraints and procedures should apply to everyone. The judiciary and enforcement agencies must never become instruments of political theatre. 

Justice must not only be independent; it must be visibly even-handed. Stop weaponising the justice system and let guilt or innocence be determined where it belongs — in court.

Inspired by the real-life Allied truck convoy system that kept troops supplied after D-Day, the film follows a diverse unit of soldiers navigating danger, exhaustion, and racial tensions as they drive the critical supply route toward the front lines. 

Red Ball Express not only dramatizes a crucial military operation—it also highlights the essential, often uncredited contributions of Black soldiers who kept the Allied advance alive under impossible conditions. Poitier’s performance adds depth, dignity, and emotional weight to a story too often overlooked. 

The Red Ball Express was a very dangerous job, those young boys ran day and night with little rest to be sure our troops had what they needed. The roads were dangerous with snipers, German Troops, roads blown away from our Bombers. A lot of respect. 

The extraordinary overwhelming logistical power of the Red Ball Express was estimated to have shortened the war by 6 months, and was only possible due to the determination, heroism, resourcefulness, and ingenuity of the brave men who kept these trucks running.

A surprise! One helluva terrific movie! Certainly not a comedy but plenty of light-hearted and humorous moments, combined with heart-breaking scenes of bombed-out devestation. 

I just watched this great movie and noticed something. As Danny and the German woman start their walk a man selling photos sees them and reacts. Then when we see a photo of her real lover he's standing in front of his shop that sells photographs. One of the best period pieces I've seen. 

Incredible that they so quickly wrote a story and act it out right in the middle of the whole thing that's going on at that time! Stunning to see them flying through the peaceful skies of Germany and think that only 4 years before this movie was filmed those skies were full of war and destruction. 

This movie is Mechanics of the Air Lift ...have to maintain tight flight parameters ..in a convoy ...while being g buzzed by Russian Yak Fighters.

International media quickly focused on the catastrophic scenes on the Nepalese side, where footage of rescue helicopters flying through mountain valleys was repeatedly broadcast. Videos showing the disaster in Tibet, however, were blocked, deleted, and censored by the Chinese Communist Party. 

The mudslide exposed the false image behind the CCP’s propaganda. CCP filming propaganda rescue videos. Rescuers that have been searching people for hours/days are filmed in clean clothes and boots. No dirt or mud in their clothes. Chinese flags and propaganda posters all around.

Penahanan Jamil Khir Baharom menerupakan pegawai paling kanan yang ditahan setakat ini dalam siasatan yang semakin meluas berhubung dakwaan penyelewengan membabitkan dana jemaah haji tersebut. 

Ia membabitkan penyewaan hotel di Arab Saudi. Yang mana perjanjian pajakan jangka panjang Tabung Haji bagi empat hotel di Makkah dan Madinah antara 2015 hingga 2017, membabitkan bayaran pendahuluan kira-kira 1.43 bilion riyal Saudi.

This was the guy who followed us to Somalia. We were a Infantry Ranger Unit, multi faith and of different races. Of course different culture too. He was a Major from the Army Religious Corps (Kagat). He was steeped in hypocritical piety that was with Malbatt 2/Unosom2.

He managed to persuade our Commanding Officer to remove the beers we had stocked up in the refrigerator of the Officers Mess. They were removed, I volunteered to store them in our room, as one of our Chinese Muslim Officer's managed to wrangle a refrigerator from the German contingent. Our room was the liveliest in the whole of Malbatt. 

It was a happening place. We drank our fill without any interruptions and ignored this guy for what we thought he was, a hypocritical person full of hypocritical piety. No, he does not go out on patrols. Another play safe. No la the favourite "ini semua salah DAP!"

Jibby's Kuncu, formerly Major General of Kor Agama Angkatan Tentera (KAGAT)

Majistret Ezrene Zakariah pada prosiding mahkamah di Putrajaya membenarkan permohonan reman selama lima hari bermula hari ini hingga Ahad.

Peguam Hamidi Mohd Noh yang mewakili Jamil mengesahkan disiasat mengikut Seksyen 16A Akta SPRM 2009, iaitu peruntukan sama seperti yang dinyatakan agensi antirasuah itu semalam. "Dia ditahan untuk bagi kerjasama dan dia sentiasa bagi kerjasama.

"Dari (siasatan) tahun 2018 sampai sekarang Datuk Seri Jamil memang sentiasa bagi kerjasama, tak pernah tak bagi kerjasama," katanya ketika ditemui pemberita di pekarangan mahkamah. Ketika ditanya sama ada Jamil menyampaikan sebarang pesanan selepas prosiding reman itu, Hamidi menjawab: “Tiada.”

Veteran 1972 : This was the guy who followed us to Somalia. We were a Infantry Ranger Unit, multi faith and of different races. Of course different culture too. He was a Major from the Army Religious Corps (Kagat). He was steeped in hypocritical piety that was with Malbatt 2/Unosom2. 

He managed to persuade our Commanding Officer to remove the beers we had stocked up in the refrigerator of the Officers Mess. They were removed, I volunteered to store them in our room, as one of our Chinese Muslim Officer's managed to wrangle a refrigerator form the German contingent. Our room was the liveliest in the whole of Malbatt. 

It was a happening place. We drank our fill without any interruptions and ignored this guy for what we thought he was, a hypocritical person full of hypocritical piety. No, he does not go out on patrols. Another play safe. No la the favourite "ini semua salah DAP!"

GraySalmon8323 : 1st degree in Syariah, Masters in Islamic Studies and promoted to 2 Star General and cherry on the cake appointed Malaysian Minister for Religious Affairs ( Islam) - interesting case study on how much of the academic ethics and morals in pursuance of above courses and career translated and was demonstrated in his life. Would a MM youth look to this man as a Towering Malay role model - he certainty has the credentials!

NewMalaysia : It’s pilgrims money. It’s one of the 5 pillars in Islam to be able to fulfil their duty as a Muslim. Even here, a Muslim made to take care of the monies can SAKAU kaw kaw. No words to describe

RKR : This is DAP's doing trying to wrongly tarnish Muslims image. Muslims are not susceptible to corruption. Ask Hadi Awang!

UMK vice-chancellor Arham Abdullah said the first step would be a dilapidation survey to assess the condition and structural integrity of the 60-year-old monument.

“We will then plan based on the findings of the survey and hope to complete the entire project before Aug 31 next year,” he told a press conference in Putrajaya yesterday.

Dr Peter Jebaseelan Jesudason : We should accept this gift and expertise with good grace from a super power which is also a vital ally. Tunku was inspired by the Memorial at Arlington, USA which later spawned the National Monument. 

Malaysia is good at building impressive structures but our maintenance and restoration culture is virtually non-extent. The fact that Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) can welcome a generous grant from the US to help us restore our national monument which commemorates our fallen heroes says a lot about the mindset of the VC of UMK Arham Abdullah and the value US places on soldiers who died fighting fascists, terorists and communists to give us the freedom we enjoy today. 

I would like to congratulate the VC of UMK Arham Abdullah for openly accepting the US grant and acknowledging its expertise to train our students in restoration work. He seems to be a rational and independent minded academic knowing he will get a lot of brickbats from the extremists in academia who are influenced by the Muslim Brotherhood ideology which has infiltrated our academia whose sole purpose is to denigrate USA, the West and to delegitimise Israel. 

Rather than being hypocritically anti-American, we Malaysians must accept we love American culture in all its myriad expressions and can't get enough of it. Since Merdeka, US sitcoms, talk shows, comedy and musicians continue to dominate the entertainment sphere. The night of the Oscars reached an all time high audience viewership when Michelle Yeoh won in 2023 and was met with countrywide pride and jubilation. 

US has been a major choice for tertiary and post graduate education and is regarded with high prestige by Malaysians. This is not surprising as it has many of the finest universities in the world. With all strata of Malaysian society, US fast foods are hugely popular e.g. McDonalds, KFC, Domino's, Starbucks and now Shake Shake to give a few examples. 

The fast food and beverage industry in Malaysia sees US predominance amongst brand names. Our music industry be it pop, hip-hop, rock, rap, soul, jazz is heavily influenced by US culture even in " conservative " Kelantan amongst the youth. 

In short, let us gratefully accept US generosity and expertise in teaching our Kelantan students how to value the fallen dead and to restore our monuments to honour them. Those who want to criticise the US or the UKM VC Arham Abdullah for accepting this generous grant are to put it mildly , " bodoh sombong ".

But there is one conspicuous absence. Where is our Remembrance Day? Why does Malaysia have no national day to remember and honour the Malaysians who died fighting the Japanese fascist occupation during World War II, and those who subsequently sacrificed their lives fighting British colonial rule?

Other countries understand that a nation cannot celebrate its independence without remembering those who paid the ultimate price for it. Britain has Remembrance Day. France remembers the Resistance. Vietnam commemorates those who died in its struggle for independence. China remembers the victims and resistance fighters of the Japanese invasion.

Across the world, nations build monuments, hold ceremonies and teach their children about those who fought and died for freedom. Malaysia, however, seems to have developed a remarkable capacity for celebrating Merdeka while forgetting the dead who made freedom possible.

Yasin, 69, said serving as a United Nations military observer in Bosnia-Herzegovina in 1994 exposed him to the harsh realities of a conflict driven by ethnic and religious divisions, including mortar attacks, armed threats, and gunfire.

The experience, he said, deepened his appreciation for the peace, harmony, and unity that Malaysians continue to enjoy despite living in a multicultural and multi-religious society.

“Malaysians should be grateful because, despite living in a plural society comprising diverse races and religions, we are still able to live in peace and harmony,” he told Bernama recently.

One of his most unforgettable experiences occurred when he lost contact with the UN headquarters for about nine hours after his position came under mortar fire while he was on duty in Petrovo Selo, in the western part of the Bihac Pocket.

Veteran 1972 : So whilst in the army what did you do about the denigrating of the other races and their respective faiths. Tried converting them to your faith? Forcing the Non Muslims to raise their hands for your saying of the "grace". 

With the attitude the majority have it can become a reality here in Malaysia, especially East Malaysia. Yea, tell me about that. Not some feel good message, that makes you feel good. Not forgetting about the burning down of the cross by Malaysian troops! 

Malaysia says burning of cross unintentional, only when their balls were held to the fire. What happened: Two Malaysian soldiers from the Malbatt Command burned a cross on a hillside  1994. The two U.N. soldiers burned the Catholic cross between July 15 and 20 on a hillside near Bosnian Croat-controlled Kiseljak, about 15 miles (25 km) northwest of the Bosnian capital Sarajevo. 

The aftermath: Malaysia stated the action was unintentional. Resolution: Two Christian Malaysian soldiers of the Malbatt Command replaced the 3-yard cross Friday on the hillside near Citonje. in a ceremony attended by local community leaders, UN Protection Force officials, and Bosnian Croat military. 

The ones who saved the day were the Non Malays of other faiths. Observers are paid USD140 per day. Whereas normal infantry units soldiers are paid USD990 per month.  The unit involved you can guess, the Non Muslims were attachments from the support elements. Had the Serbs retaliated, the outcome would have been devastating.  Source

Today, five vice chancellor positions are vacant, as the universities are being cleansed of this influence. However, many lower management positions are still filled with members and sympathizers. If these people were appointed to these positions on the basis of loyalty, rather then meritocracy, then many Malaysian academics have been cheated of their opportunity to serve the higher education cause, in management positions.

Let what happened during Maszlee Malik’s short tenure as minister of higher education never be forgotten, so education cannot be highjacked by sectional interests. The list in this article was prepared for the Special Branch. It was the intention of the Special Branch, that this list was leaked into the public domain.

When Maszlee Malik handed back Malaysia’s education portfolio after Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamed fired him abruptly on January 2, he left behind a fifth column of Islamist activists embedded in the top echelons of the ministry and public universities, sources have told Asia Sentinel.

According to a former vice-chancellor who pointed out a list of at least 26 newly appointed vice chancellors and deputy vice chancellors, these appointments were not made on merit but rather on the basis of loyalty to Maszlee and Salafi preacher and Perlis Mufti, Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin, known as Dr Maza. The Salafi movement is a revivalist crusade within Sunni Islam that developed in Egypt in the late 19th century as a response to Western European imperialism.

On the evening of 29 August 2026, shortly before 7 pm, five masked gunmen arrived on two motorcycles and a motorcycle fitted with a sidecar. Armed with assault rifles and handguns, they quickly subdued the security guards at the entrance.

Two of the men entered the store and ordered staff and customers to evacuate immediately. One attacker reportedly told a guard, “If you do not want anyone to be killed, hurry and get everyone out of the store.”

As we mark 69 years since Malaya achieved independence, we must ask: Are we still faithful to the inclusive vision articulated at Merdeka and carried forward into Malaysia, or have we strayed dangerously from it? The answer is deeply troubling. We remain divided along ethnic and religious lines.

Citizens whose families have lived here for generations are still called “pendatang” (immigrants). We continue to argue over claims that Malaysia is exclusively a “Malay nation” or that its constitutional identity is that of an Islamic state.

The language of “ketuanan Melayu” (Malay supremacy) implies masters and subordinates, while respect for the Constitution and the rule of law appears increasingly conditional. This is far removed from the inclusive national ideals proclaimed at Merdeka.

apanama is back : Why is Tunku's inclusive vision forgotten, and what happened? It is not forgotten in the real sense. It is deliberately forgotten, and the nation took a wrong turn in the late 60s and early 70s. The rest is history. 

While the inclusive vision is almost dead with Tunku, what surprises most people is that politicians are willing to pursue a completely wrong vision and even defend it at the expense of people's well-being. For me, Malaysia is 70 years old today. Back in 1957, Malaysians would ask, "We are here as a new and young independent state, and where do we want to be next?" 

When we talk about 'next', a country will always strive for the best. Looking back, Malaysia does not strive for its best and is always moving backwards. Let me share part of a "Foreword" by Clive Kessler in late Rustam A. Sani's book titled "Failed Nation? Concerns of a Malaysian Nationalist." 

The foreword was written in 2007. "The recent fiftieth anniversary of Malaysian merdeka was marked by some odd "atmospherics". Joy and pride seemed tinged, among many thoughtful Malaysian citizens, with a certain wistfulness, a mood of resignation and quiet regret: about what might have been, about things earlier hoped for that had not come to pass, and a wondering "why not?" 

Adults of mature years often look back upon the dearest hopes of their younger selves and wonder. They ask themselves, "Why so?" – why had they dared and felt entitled to hope so generously – and "Why not?"- why had their best hopes remained unfulfilled." The above paints a picture of the country's situation in 2007. 

20 years later, in 2026, Malaysia is still the same and getting worse. Rustam chooses the word "Failed" NOT in the sense that what now (back in 2007) exists is nothing, but that it is so much less than what might have been. For Rustam, "just good enough" is just not good enough. 

Malaysia, he insists, and rightly, is capable of, and deserves, so much better. Most of us know the root causes. There is nothing to comment further. However, most of us have lived long enough to see the country's decay and decline. One cannot deny it. 

Malaysians deserve a better country after being independent for 70 years, yet the country still seems directionless and clueless, and can't even solve simple problems such as the sock issue and the flag issue. Spoon-fed for close to 60 years, yet a certain section of society becomes too dependent on it until they feel it is an entitlement without feeling shame. 

It itself is retarding the nation's progress. They do not care as long as the handout is there, and each administration sees it as an obligation, even though the national debt is in the trillions. Coupled with the apartheid and discriminatory policies, the nation seems stuck in its own making. Being independent seems meaningless when no one knows how to run the country. Instead, the country is being screw up. 

The Falkland Islands, a British Overseas Territory, have a nominal GDP per capita of approximately £86,050 (around $110,600 USD). In comparison, the Gross National Income (GNI) per capita—which better reflects resident earnings—stands at about £58,749. At the same time, Malaysia's nominal GDP per capita is estimated at USD 15,085. 

If Malaysia were another British Overseas Territory, we would be better off by now. Looking at Malaysia presently, I often recall those words from the Biblical book known as Ecclesiastes [or "The Preacher of Jerusalem"] that was written, as old traditions maintain, by King Solomon/Nabi Sulaiman: "There is an evil that I have seen under the sun, the kind of wrong that is the doing of rulers: 

"Fools are put in high positions, while the rich [in wisdom] are made to occupy the low ones. "I have seen slaves on horseback, while princes go on foot like slaves" [Ecclesiastes 10: 5 – 7]. Being intelligent and having merit are some of those princes. The light at the end of the tunnel is dimmed, and the future looks bleak!

- Aldous Huxley, Brave New World and Brave New World Revisited

COMMENT | Rational Malaysians understand that the state wants to keep M Indira Gandhi's kidnapped daughter Prasana Diksa away from her.

We understand this because, earlier in the case, the top brass of the police publicly stated (without any basis in law) that they did not want to be trapped between two different court orders.

We understand this because former inspector-general of police Abdul Hamid Bador claimed (with no basis in law) that he sought a “win-win situation” for the perpetrator of the crime and the victim, and that he knew where the kidnapper was.

This should not be in dispute.

Indira, after exhausting every legal avenue, which most times was against her, said, “My only hope is to go and plead to the public or for (my daughter) Prasana herself to contact me.”

7th Rangers (Mech)

Independence Day is not only a time for celebration but also for reflection. As we celebrate this day, let’s remember the brave hearts who gave us a free sovereign nation. 

Let's honour our past, inspire our present and build a brighter tomorrow. # Demi Negara, let's resolve to protect this soil we call home

“Colonial-era laws must be abolished so that this country can give true meaning to independence,” he said in his speech at the Sahabat Madani 2026 Merdeka programme at UiTM Permatang Pauh today.  Among colonial-era laws still in force is the Sedition Act 1948, which has long been the subject of calls for abolition by the Malaysian Bar and civil society groups.

The Malaysian Bar has repeatedly called for the law’s repeal, describing it as archaic and incompatible with freedom of speech. Pakatan Harapan had also pledged in its 2018 election manifesto to repeal the Sedition Act, alongside several post-independence laws it regarded as oppressive.

DefyForGood : You could have done this anytime last 3+ years as PM.... Crave to be PM, talk like opposition. This fellow is delusional. And he wonders why he is losing elections. What a waste

LovingM : Special privileges was colonial era law...

Chefoo : Typical talk of politicians. Condemn the colonials as usual. Instead of adopting what is good and replace what is deemed inappropriate….these sweet coating politicians draw a blanket condemnation.

OCT : Malaysia can have all the good and new laws to safeguard the peace, clean and stability of the country. However, no matter what the laws and rule of law are not strictly followed, they become useless. 

It is not the laws that are not good but the politicians who don't, adhere, abide and not selective in prosecution, have made the laws a laughing stock. There are already good laws in place for corruption but Rakyat had seen it being used selectively. 

Just look at 1MDB, TH and LTAT high profile cases. 1MDB cases are still in progress and some bigwigs are still free to roam whereas other countries have concluded many moons back. The recent flag fiasco also see discrimination by PDRM acting against NM only. 

3R violations by NM are acted swift, prosecuted and jailed while MM especially MM VVIP are investigated but not prosecuted. Malaysia may not want new laws but just laws that are enforced fairly, equall5and without prejudice. New laws are not the solution when current laws are not enforced properly and justly.

AyamKambingBack : The apartheid NEP is the one need to be abolished right now. There's NO more excuse of Malay economically weak. 

Malay are now economically and politically very STRONG when compared to other races. More over, the NEP bs is causing havoc with billions being sakaued by the Malays. Abolish it NOW !!!!

Just Common Sense : Not a single colonialist in Tabung Haji so who stole the RM11 Billion? All Madani own UMNO people who he protected for 3 years by hiding the RCI report just so he could remain PM. Any colonialists in 1MDB? Pure incompetence from Anwar every time he opens his mouth.

Monty : This PM’s speech is plainly designed to distract the people’s attention, from the plagues of corruption engulfing the nation. And the unfair distribution of wealth in the country. 

How bad was corruption in the British colonial era? Really? In fact how bad was corruption under the premiership of the Tengku, Razak and Hussein Onn? Almost non existent. 

Please PMX, don’t be so aggressive and arrogant to blame the foreigners for the ills of the country but focus on the immediate scandalous behaviour of senior politicians and bureaucrats bringing shame to Malaysia almost every day of the week. 

If the PH can show that it is genuine about ridding corruption not just charging them in court but ensuring that they are jailed and all their assets are forfeited, I believe that they may just have a chance in the next election.

Kecik Mayong : We need a law where repeat "sakau" criminals be given public caning !

Rupert16 : “ Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called for colonial-era laws to be abolished, saying Malaysia must shed legal remnants that restrict the freedom and participation of its people.” Likewise, and even more so, discriminatory policies that are based on race and religion should also be abolished.

darmakochi : Well said! This is our national problem. Racial discrimination in many areas. For how many more years will the majority race will be on government economic drip?

flyingeagle : Yes, agreed then Malaysians should have equal rights and opportunities with no special privileges and quota. Meritocracy is the way forward.

GrayEagle1207 : Isn't Shariah Law considered colonial era ? Since it was not native to Malaysia / Tanah Melayu, but rather it was, for lack or better term, "imported" during trade activities and marriages between foreigners and the local king/s. 

Prior to 14th century , the Malay Peninsular was heavily influenced by animism, Buddhism and Hinduism. Traditional Malay weddings and native language was heavily influenced by Hinduism which is still evident till today.

Dr Suresh Kumar : “Why can’t we look at ourselves as this great Malaysian nation, to show compassion, love and ensure that every single Malaysian benefits and is inspired?”- Stop beating around the bush and be specific. 

Which laws and when are you going to abolish it? That's what we want to hear not more humbug. You talk about independence from the white colonial masters but we are now stuck with the elite putra masters/tuans whose finger prints are on every cookie jar that we can think of. 

What are doing about it? South Africa repealed its apartheid legislation in 1991 but we are still continuing the lopsided NEP under various permutations. Where is the compassion, love and justice?

More recently, Sinar Harian, on Aug 21, reported Federal Territories mufti Ahmad Fauwaz Fadzil declaring that Malaysia remained an Islamic state on “fiqhi” (Islamic jurisprudence), “syarie” (syariah-compliant), historical and geographical grounds.

This article analytically examines whether Malaysia is an Islamic state.

Responding to Mahathir’s pronouncement in a statement dated Nov 2, 2001, the Bar Council maintained that a political declaration could not, by itself, alter the federation’s constitutional character.

It rightly argued that the issue must be determined by reference to the Federal Constitution and the rule of law. That central proposition remains sound.

MS : "Malaysia is not only an Islamic State but a WINNING Islamic State" as evidenced by the three former prime ministers who trooped into courtrooms the other day to answer corruption charges

apanama is back : Malaysia does not explicitly use the word "secular" in its constitution, unlike the Indian Constitution, but its legal foundation and founding leaders have designed it as a secular state. Historically, in the early stages of drafting the Constitution, the Reid Commission proposed inserting a provision stating that Malaysia is a secular state. 

However, in the final stage, they agreed to accept a provision that made Islam the religion of the Federation, but it shall NOT impose any disability on non-Muslim nationals who profess and practise their own religions, and shall NOT IMPLY that the State is NOT a secular State; this means designating Islam as the religion of the Federation does not automatically turn the country into a theocracy. 

Moreover, the executive, legislature, and judiciary are SECULAR in nature and in their daily practice. It is well known that civil courts (High Courts, COA, and Federal Court) are SECULAR and SUPERIOR to Syariah courts, which operate only at the state level. 

Courts have historically viewed the supreme law of the land as secular, operating on civil parliamentary democracy rather than religious law. Besides what was stated by the late Tunku back in 1958 in the Federal Legislative Council that Malaysia is meant to be secular, and various court precedents (Che Omar, Indira Gandhi, and Nik Elin) that confirmed the country is secular, the important point to remember is Malaysia's system of governance described by Professor R H Hickling as below: "… as a general proposition Muslim law cannot be regarded as "the law of the land." 

Islam is indeed the religion of the Federation, just as the protestant Church is the established Church of England: but in each case, the state is a secular state, and it is wise to keep religion out of law (as well as out of politics) for the two mix ill." 

The foundation of Malaysia is ALWAYS SECULAR, in the past, present, and the foreseeable future, no matter what the argument is. Of course, the narratives will be leaned toward Islam to get votes, but remember, NO Prime Minister DARE to touch the Basic Structure Doctrine (BSD) of our Supreme Law. 

Not even a PAS PM in the future. They may issue statements, but they will remain mere speeches to appease the majority. While in narratives Malaysia may be seen as Islamic, in practice it is always secular. Moreover, civil, criminal, commercial, and public laws are secular and are enacted by the federal Parliament and state assemblies. 

In contrast, Islamic law applies primarily to personal and family matters for Muslims and is restricted by explicit jurisdictional limits in the Federal Constitution. A SECULAR state legislative assembly ALWAYS passes state Islamic law. We only have Syariah law and Syariah Courts, but the rest are ALL secular. 

The noise seems louder on the Syariah side, so it looks and sounds like Islamic, but it is NOT. To portray to the outside world that we are more Islamic than Arab, and locally to get votes. Finally, the answer to "Is Malaysia an Islamic state? The answer is BIG NO. It is a SECULAR state.

DRKam: The Kedah state government has no constitutional power to ban federally licensed gambling in Kedah. It can refuse premises licences, but the actual betting and lottery licensing regime falls under the federal government.

And here's the awkward part: when Perikatan Nasional was in federal power, with PAS as part of the government, special draws were increased from eight to 22 a year.

So, what say you, Kedah Menteri Besar Sanusi Nor? If Muslims are expected to refrain from pork because it is forbidden, why do we need the government to physically remove every gambling outlet to stop Muslims from gambling?

Is our faith so fragile that it needs the government to police every temptation on our behalf? And shouldn't a government representing all Malaysians, Muslims and non-Muslims alike, be making laws for everyone rather than legislating morality for one faith?

Apanama is Back: Let us not forget that PAS was part of the federal government. In fact, PAS has been a key partner in the ruling federal administration for years now, holding ministerial and government roles.

If PAS is so sincerely committed to the moral principles of prohibiting gambling at all costs, the question must be asked: why did PAS not propose and push for a constitutional amendment or federal legislation to prohibit gambling nationwide during all the years it held federal power?

The federal government, and indeed Parliament, has full authority under the Constitution and the federal list to legislate on matters of gambling and lotteries.

If PAS was truly serious about ending gambling across Malaysia, it would have put its political weight behind a formal constitutional or legislative amendment at the federal level - rather than leaving this "curse" allegation to be hurled from the state level today.

Instead, what we see now is a public attempt to shift blame onto Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, while conveniently overlooking PAS' own record and inaction while it governed at the federal level.

It is easy to moralise from the comfort of a state podium, but leadership is about taking responsibility - and accountability for federal policy rested, in large part, in PAS' own hands.

The people of Kedah and Malaysia deserve a serious, principled debate on this matter - not theatrics and accusations directed at political opponents.

GSVL: First, gambling is only prohibited for Muslims. In fact, federal and state laws do not permit Muslims to gamble. Secondly, non-Muslim religions do not expressly prohibit gambling, but it is not encouraged.

Thirdly, unlike in Islam, non-Muslim religions give their followers the freedom to choose for themselves what is morally right or wrong.

Gambling, lotteries, and gaming houses come under federal jurisdiction, and it is not a state matter. The Federal Constitution does not expressly prohibit gambling in Articles 3 to 13 of the supreme law.

Lastly, it is not for PAS to legislate on public morality for non-Muslims. Why should it matter if non-Muslims want to indulge in gambling, alcohol and other vices, since they are already “destined for eternal damnation”, according to PAS?

BlueShark1548: Indeed. Muslims are not permitted by Islam to gamble, and gambling is bad. However, one should not impose their religious beliefs on others. Is it Islamic to pray for another person's stomach to burst?

Malaysia is a secular nation with a multiracial population and with many different religions. Gambling is a human trait which you can never be curtailed. It is just like drugs. We have strict laws, but there are still drug users and traffickers. It is better to legalise gambling than let it go underground, where we cannot monitor it at all.

Does Sanusi not have comments on the taxes paid by Genting casinos? What happens to the millions paid to the government? Is the money paid by casinos haram and should not be used for the benefit of all Malaysians?

Sanusi is angry because the Federal Court has given him a tight slap on his face. His actual behaviour is being exposed for all to see.

BrownJaguar5869: I don’t gamble. I don’t encourage gambling either. But Malaysia cannot be governed as though everyone must live according to one community’s religious rules.

We are a multiracial, multireligious country governed by the Federal Constitution. Regulate gambling strictly, protect Muslims from it, tackle addiction and illegal gambling, and tax legal operators properly. But a blanket ban imposed on everyone is another matter altogether.

And please, enough with saying Anwar will be “cursed”. This is governance, not a religious threat. The courts have already ruled on the limits of the state’s powers.

Respect the Constitution and govern for all Malaysians, including those whose beliefs and personal choices may be different from ours.

In a hard-cover publication of over 430 pages retailing for RM100 a piece, he enumerates numerous instances of misrepresentation and under-representation of the roles played by non-Malays in Malaysia, especially in school textbooks with previous entries altered or omitted altogether.

Malaysiakini readers would be well aware of his frequent articles on such misrepresentations, and a voice given to minorities whose roles are not sufficiently aired through numerous articles he contributed to the news portal.

The first 34 chapters are based on corresponding articles in Malaysiakini but widened and properly annotated as befits their inclusion in a book of this nature.

One which is totally new is Chapter 35 on the May 13, 1969 racial riots.

Ranjit’s book acknowledgments include Malaysiakini founder and former editor-in-chief Steven Gan, who approved his request to run a column on history in Malaysiakini.

Harmonious Harmony : How long can a community live with lies and make believe life ? This suited our architects (politicians) for which the result was they amassed sinful wealth leaving the community in wanting . 

To replace this narrative as everything has a shelf life , religion is taking centre stage . Targeting NMs , displacing intolerance and apologising for the rest like corruption as divine ! Our politicians have been creative albeit to care of thier interest .

Malaysiansatay : Perhaps KJ should start with this book since he is ‘interested’ in the nations history?

lipdah : The over rated politician???

He had also served as deputy ministers under Abdullah Badawi and Najib Razak administrations. It was not until 2020 that he was made a full minister – Minister of Human Resource – that came with “golden opportunities”. 

Born and raised in gang-infested Sentul, it wasn’t hard for Saravanan to click with the big boss of the Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC), a component party of the corrupted Barisan Nasional coalition. After all, Samy Vellu was the infamous Godfather of Indian gangster in the 1980s and 1990s, who served under the Mahathir leadership during his 22 years iron-fist rule (1981-2003).