CJ's tenure not tied to PM's feelings, Ambiga schools Nazri on judiciary
She was responding to former law minister Nazri Abdul Aziz, who attributed the non-extension of former chief justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat's tenure to her speech in Malta in April, where she called for the removal of the prime minister's role in judicial appointments.
'Firstly, the comments by Tengku Maimun in Malta are not...
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New Straits Times
an hour ago
- New Straits Times
Fomca welcomes RM100 one-off aid, urges stronger price control and wise spending
GEORGE TOWN: The Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) has welcomed the series of initiatives announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim aimed at easing the cost of living burden for Malaysian consumers. These include the one-off RM100 cash assistance under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) programme, the reduction in RON95 petrol prices, the decision to maintain current toll rates across major highways, and the expanded reach of the Jualan Rahmah Madani programme. Its chief executive officer Dr Saravanan Thambirajah, said Fomca viewed the RM100 one-off assistance as a timely and inclusive step, especially given the persistent pressure of food prices despite the overall inflation rate remaining low. "The government's move to extend this assistance to all adult citizens aged 18 and above, regardless of income level, is unprecedented and signals recognition that the cost-of-living crisis is affecting not just the lower-income group but also the middle class. "This broad-based approach is commendable and shows the government's responsiveness to the realities on the ground," he told the New Straits Times. In a televised address as an "extraordinary tribute" to Malaysians, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that all Malaysians aged 18 and above would receive a one-off RM100 payment. This would benefit 22 million Malaysians. Anwar also announced a slew of other government assistance to ease the people's cost of living. In addition, Saravanan said Fomca also welcomed the government's announcement to reduce the price of RON95 petrol to RM1.99 per litre. He said this measure is expected to directly benefit millions of vehicle users across the country, particularly the younger generation, gig economy workers, and low- to middle-income earners. "Given that fuel prices have a ripple effect on the cost of goods and transportation, this move will certainly ease the burden on consumers and improve household cash flow. "Similarly, the government's decision to freeze toll hikes scheduled for 10 highways this year, while absorbing over RM500 million in compensation costs, demonstrates a commitment to protecting public interest. "For many Malaysians who commute daily for work and family responsibilities, this measure offers crucial financial relief at a time when every ringgit matters," he added. Saravanan said Fomca also applauded the government's commitment to expanding the Jualan Rahmah Madani initiative. "With an increased allocation of RM600 million, this programme has gained strong public support by offering affordable basic goods and groceries across all 600 state constituencies. "Many consumers have expressed appreciation for the improved access to reasonably priced food items, especially in rural and suburban areas. "Fomca encourages the government to continue enhancing the implementation of this programme by improving coordination with suppliers and ensuring adequate stock levels, so that its benefits reach consumers consistently and fairly," he said. Saravanan said while these government interventions were indeed positive and much appreciated, Fomca urged that they must be accompanied by effective market enforcement. He said the reality was that without strong and proactive price monitoring, unscrupulous traders might take advantage of consumer subsidies and relief measures to inflate prices and diminish their intended benefits. "We therefore call on the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry to enhance its enforcement capacity by increasing manpower and resources dedicated to monitoring, inspecting, and taking action against profiteering practices. "There must be a more robust and widespread monitoring of prices nationwide, and stern action must be taken against traders who exploit government incentives to inflate prices," he told the New Straits Times. Saravanan said while the public generally welcomed this aid with gratitude, Fomca urges all Malaysians to spend the RM100 wisely. He said it should be used for necessities and essential needs. "For those who may not require the assistance, we encourage them to consider extending their help to friends, relatives, neighbours, or vulnerable community members who are more in need. "This spirit of solidarity is what will build a more compassionate and resilient Malaysian society. "Fomca believes that a combination of inclusive cash aid, firm price control and effective enforcement will provide more meaningful and sustainable relief to consumers as we navigate current economic challenges," he added.
Focus Malaysia
an hour ago
- Focus Malaysia
A quick glance at what PMX's 'extraordinary appreciation for Malaysians' package' entails
LOOKING beyond financial assistance for the poor and hardcore poor, below are what Malaysians at large can look forward to from the 'extraordinary appreciation' package unveiled by Prime Minister earlier today (July 23): RON95 drops 5 sen from RM2.05 to RM2.00: One can save RM2 every time for filling up 40 litres. Pending the fuel rationalisation plan to be announced by the end-September 2025, around 18 million Malaysian car drivers and motorcyclists can look forward to RON95 price of RM1.99/ litre. In 2023 and 2024, the money the government has spent on RON95 subsidy alone was estimated to have cost nearly RM20 bil annually. Although world oil prices have declined this year, the price of RON 95 petrol without subsidy still hovers around RM2.50/litre which is far higher than the subsidised price people were paying. RM100 credit via MyKad for every citizen aged 18 and above: This is higher than the RM30 e-wallet during the time of Pakatan Harapan (PH) 1.0 administration under the then finance minister Lim Guan Eng. Even business tycoon such as Tan Sri Vincent Tan Chee Yioun or Tan Sri Francis Yeoh are entitled to the RM100 disbursement between Aug 31 and Dec 31 to purchase essential goods at over 4,100 outlets nationwide, including major supermarkets such as Mydin, Lotus's, Econsave and 99 Speedmart as well as retail stores in all districts. This RM100 e-wallet assistance will cost the government RM2.2 bil which is less than half of the RM5 bil that was just borrowed yesterday. This brings the government's net borrowings for 8M 2025 to RM81.28 bil which has already surpassed the RM80 bil borrowing limit set in Budget 2025. As of today, the government's total new debt has reached RM81.2 bil with an increase of RM256.21 bil in just 32 months of the Madani administration (since November 2022). Additional public holiday on Sept 15 in conjunction with Malaysia Day on September 1 to boost national unity. No toll increases for 10 highways: The government will bear over RM500 mil a year to ensure this happens.– July 23, 2025
New Straits Times
2 hours ago
- New Straits Times
Bar Council convenes EGM to debate judiciary resolutions
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Bar will convene an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) this Saturday to debate two key motions concerning judicial independence and the undermining of public confidence in the legal system. Bar Council chairman Ezri Abdul Wahab will table the "Motion for Judicial Independence." Prominent rights lawyers Malik Imtiaz Sarwar and Surendra Ananth will jointly propose a motion to hold the Prime Minister accountable for allowing the undermining of public confidence in the judiciary. A third motion, titled "Implementing a Fair Rate of Minimum Remuneration for Pupils," has been put forward by lawyers Goh Cia Yee and Vince Tan. Meanwhile, former Bar Council member Salim Bashir told the New Straits Times: "Judicial independence is a cornerstone of every democratic nation," stressing the importance of the gathering. He added, "The upcoming extraordinary general meeting (EGM) reflects the Bar's commitment to protecting the rule of law and preventing any erosion of judicial independence." Salim said the meeting "is a critical call for the government to uphold constitutional governance and the separation of powers, and to take necessary steps to restore public confidence in the judiciary." "I hope many members will turn up at the EGM, as their participations are crucial," he added. The Malaysian Bar has around 24,000 members, and at least 500 must attend the meeting to meet the quorum requirement. Bar secretary Murshidah Mustafa has circulated the motions to members ahead of the extraordinary general meeting (EGM), which will be held at 10am at Matrade Hall, Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah. The meeting comes in the wake of major developments within the judiciary. On July 14, a group of lawyers marched outside the Palace of Justice to defend the judiciary's integrity. The Bar Council submitted a memorandum to the government. The memorandum urged the appointment of judicial leaders with proven integrity and a track record of sound judgments. It also called for judicial vacancies to be filled promptly to prevent delays in court proceedings. Last Friday, the Chief Registrar's Office confirmed the appointments of three top judicial figures, ending days of speculation over the leadership reshuffle within the country's judiciary. According to the statement, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, consented to the appointment of Datuk Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh as the new Chief Justice of Malaysia, in accordance with Article 122B(1) of the Federal Constitution. Datuk Abu Bakar Jais has been named as President of the Court of Appeal, while Datuk Azizah Nawawi has been appointed Chief Judge of Sabah and Sarawak. All three judges will be sworn in and receive their letters of appointment at Istana Negara on July 28.
