Latest news with #Merdeka
The Star
3 days ago
- Business
- The Star
RM10mil allocated for people-centric programmes in Muar, says Anwar
MUAR: RM10mil has been allocated for people-centric programmes in Muar, according to Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The Prime Minister stated that the funds were intended to enable the district to implement programmes that would benefit the local community. 'This RM10mil allocation will be utilised effectively through various identified development projects. 'As such, the Muar District Office can come up with a list of initiatives to help the people here, especially the underprivileged,' he said. Anwar was speaking at the official launch of the 2025 National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang campaign at Dataran Tanjung Emas here on Sunday (July 27), marking the start of the nationwide celebration of patriotism and unity. He said the implementation of the projects would be coordinated by the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) under the Prime Minister's Department, in collaboration with the Muar District Office. 'I would also like to thank the people of Muar for spreading the Merdeka spirit as the host of this campaign,' he said.
The Star
3 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Anwar to launch National Month in Muar today
MUAR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to officiate the launch of the 2025 National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang campaign at Dataran Tanjung Emas here on Sunday (July 27), marking the beginning of the nationwide celebration of patriotism and unity. Deputy prime ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof are expected to be present at the event along with Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil and Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi. At the event, the prime minister is also scheduled to flag off the 2025 Jalur Gemilang Merdeka Expedition Convoy, which will travel across the country carrying the message of unity and patriotism. The side events for the launch of the 2025 National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang have started since last Friday, featuring various community and family-oriented activities such as colouring competitions and a singing competition, known as the Bintang Suara Madani, art performances, and local cultural activities. Two key highlights that drew significant attention from visitors were the Madani Community entrepreneur booths, which featured micro and small traders from across the country, and the government and private agency service booths, which provided a range of public services and facilities. Among the services offered at the event are free health and dental check-ups, driver's licence renewals by the Road Transport Department (JPJ), services from the National Registration Department and the Employees Provident Fund (EPF), women's health screenings, as well as a 30 per cent discount on the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) traffic summonses. Today's highlight also includes the Merdeka 6.8km Fun Run & Walk and a convoy performance featuring both land and water assets. Organisers are expecting over 10,000 visitors, aiming to ignite the spirit of patriotism in the lead-up to National Day on August 31 and Malaysia Day on September 16. - Bernama
BusinessToday
5 days ago
- Business
- BusinessToday
CIMB Positive On Govt Stimulus, Spur Consumer Sentiment
The Malaysian consumer sector is set for a short-term boost following the government's new fiscal support measures, according to a report by CIMB Securities. The firm is positive on the impact of the stimulus, which is designed to alleviate living costs and stimulate domestic spending ahead of the upcoming Merdeka and Malaysia Day celebrations. The measures announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim include: A one-off RM100 e-credit for all Malaysian citizens aged 18 and above, benefiting an estimated 22 million individuals. The credit, which is part of the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme, will be redeemable from August 31 to December 31, 2025, at over 4,100 designated retail outlets, including Mydin, Lotus's, Econsave, and 99 Speedmart. The subsidised price of RON95 petrol will be reduced from RM2.50/litre to RM1.99/litre for all Malaysians, impacting approximately 18 million eligible vehicles. The government has stated that an update on the RON95 subsidies rationalisation plan will be announced by the end of September. September 15, 2025, has been declared a public holiday to encourage domestic travel and boost the services and tourism sectors. A RM500 million allocation will be used to cap toll hikes at 10 highways throughout 2025, providing relief to commuters, particularly in the Klang Valley and Putrajaya. The budget for this initiative has been doubled to RM600 million for 2025. CIMB Securities views the stimulus as 'incrementally positive,' reinforcing near-term consumer spending, especially on essential goods and value-based retail. The report highlights several companies that are well-positioned to benefit: 99 Speedmart is a key beneficiary, with an estimated 900 to 1,000 of its outlets participating in the SARA programme, allowing it to capture a significant share of the stimulus-driven spending. Eco-Shop Marketing is also well-placed, with over half of its 349 stores part of the SARA initiative. Mynews, with 30 of its Supervalue outlets participating in the broader Rahmah Madani programme, is expected to see a boost in footfall and sales. Food and beverage (F&B) manufacturers like Nestlé, F&N, QL Resources, and Farm Fresh are expected to see stronger demand for basic food and beverage products, many of which are eligible for purchase with the e-credit. Despite the positive short-term outlook, CIMB Securities is maintaining its Neutral call on the overall consumer sector. The firm believes current valuations are fair, as the positive impact of the stimulus is balanced by ongoing headwinds. These include soft consumer sentiment, higher sales tax on discretionary goods, the impact of boycott activities on some companies, and cost pressures from the expanded Sales and Service Tax on rental. The report's top picks within the consumer sector are 99 Speedmart, Farm Fresh, and Padini, citing their defensive sales mix, growth potential, and attractive valuations. Related
The Sun
5 days ago
- Politics
- The Sun
Unveiling the splendour behind National Day, Malaysia Day celebrations
FOR many, the National Day and Malaysia Day festivities are witnessed either in the vibrant gatherings at event venues or through live broadcasts on television and social media. The meticulously-crafted parades, the captivating performances and the seamless orchestration of each moment create an impression of effortless grandeur. Yet, beneath the radiant facade lies a symphony of dedication, composed through months of planning by countless individuals and agencies working tirelessly behind the scenes to bring this national spectacle to life. The task of orchestrating the National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations is entrusted to the National Day and Malaysia Day main committee, led by Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. Under the Department of Information Malaysia (JAPEN) as a pivotal force, the main committee comprises a coalition of government agencies. JAPEN states that towards that end, its role transcends mere information dissemination as it kindles the spark of patriotism through innovative and inclusive communication 'that deeply resonates with all Malaysians, nurturing a profound sense of pride and belonging'. 2025 launch, Jalur Gemilang ceremony 'The responsibilities are vast and intricate, encompassing the selection of venues, technical arrangements, scheduling, securing the attendance of esteemed guests, crafting impactful speeches and managing complex logistics,' says JAPEN. A prime example is the Launch Ceremony and Jalur Gemilang Flag-Raising 2025, to be held this Sunday at Dataran Tanjung Emas in Muar, Johor. This event involves the establishment of 18 specialised subcommittees to manage critical aspects such as stage performances, security, media engagement, programme book production, technical coordination and logistics. 'Through JAPEN's leadership and the collaboration of partner agencies, those efforts are harmonised to deliver a celebration that would be both impeccable and profoundly impactful,' says JAPEN. The groundwork for such an event requires extraordinary dedication. JAPEN officers made repeated journeys to Muar, conducting rigorous site inspections and engaging in detailed discussions with local authorities, the Royal Malaysia Police, the Fire and Rescue Department, RELA and other agencies to ensure the highest standards of safety and efficiency. This year's celebrations were further elevated by the Merdeka Jalur Gemilang Convoy, a dynamic showcase featuring an impressive array of land and maritime assets from the Marine Police, Malaysia Maritime Department, Royal Malaysia Police, BMW K16 Johor Motorcycle Club, Gig Economy Vehicles and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, among others. To ensure these festivities are inclusive and vibrant, a series of complementary programmes have been organised. These include the 'Kita Madani Carnival', the Merdeka 6.8km fun run and walk, the 'Madani Arts Fiesta', the 'Madani Star Voice Competition', Madani Community Service and interactive booths crafted to provide meaningful benefits to the public. Pentarama's 55th milestone The Pentarama' team from JAPEN has played an indispensable role in bringing these celebrations to life through captivating stage performances that blend entertainment with profound messages of nationhood. With an approachable and engaging approach, Pentarama – a portmanteau of the Malay words pentas (stage), tarian (dance) and drama, bridges the gap between the government and the people, nurturing patriotism in an informal-yet-powerful manner, particularly among grassroots communities. This year marks the 55th anniversary of Pentarama, a milestone that reaffirms its steadfast dedication to fortifying the bond between the government and the people. Behind the scenes, countless elements require relentless coordination, from technical preparations and traffic management to performance rehearsals and last-minute adjustments. Each detail demands unwavering dedication from all involved, ensuring that the events unfold with grace, precision, and a lasting positive impact. 'These efforts are driven by one ultimate goal –- to ensure that National Day and Malaysia Day are celebrated in a manner that is meaningful, safe and joyous for every Malaysian,' says JAPEN. Following the launch ceremony on Sunday, the pinnacle of the National Day 2025 celebration will take place on Aug 31 at Dataran Putrajaya. Meanwhile, the Malaysia Day celebration is scheduled for Sept 16 at the PICCA Convention Centre in Penang. Nurturing patriotism in young hearts Across the nation's schools, the National Storytelling Competition ignites the flame of patriotism through the art of drama and storytelling. This initiative brings to life the stories of national heroes, the struggles for independence, and the essence of nationhood. Inspired by the timeless Malay proverb, 'to bend a bamboo, start from its shoot,' this programme seeks to instil a profound love for the country in young hearts from their earliest years. 'JAPEN leads this endeavour in close partnership with schools, District Education Offices and local agencies. Beyond imparting knowledge, this initiative cultivates a robust sense of identity and national pride at the grassroots level, ensuring that the values of unity and patriotism are deeply rooted in the spirit of future generations. ' JAPEN also says that the National Day and Malaysia Day are far more than annual celebrations – they are powerful symbols of Malaysia's unity, resilience and harmony. 'Behind the awe-inspiring parades and breath-taking performances stand hundreds of dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to strategise, coordinate logistics and ensure that every technical and safety detail is executed with precision. Their efforts transform these events into profound expressions of national pride. 'Under the exemplary leadership of the Honourable Minister of Communications and the dynamic contributions of agencies like JAPEN, these celebrations transcend mere commemoration – they are deeply felt and cherished by every segment of society. Though the work behind the scenes may often go unnoticed, its impact is monumental, nurturing an enduring spirit of patriotism and forging a robust national identity among Malaysians.'
New Straits Times
5 days ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Beyond political theatre: Recognising the Auditor General's competence
LETTERS: It is both disappointing and ironic that, in a time when we should be celebrating the institutional strength of independent audit and accountability, the appointment of Auditor General Wan Suraya Wan Radzi has come under fire from some politicians, not for failing in her duties, but for excelling at them while refusing to play political cheerleader. To suggest that her appointment is "tainted" simply because she is a civil servant is both legally unfounded and ethically disingenuous. Article 105 of the Federal Constitution clearly provides for the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to appoint the Auditor General on the advice of the Prime Minister — after consultation with the Conference of Rulers. This process was duly followed. The idea that a civil servant, by default, lacks independence is an insult not only to her professionalism but to the integrity of the Malaysian Civil Service as a whole. In fact, the suggestion that only retirees are "independent" is laughable. Since when did age or retirement status become the gold standard for objectivity? Is independence defined by being out of service — or by having the strength to serve without fear or favour? Wan Suraya brings with her 29 years of administrative service, deep knowledge of government operations, and a track record unmarred by scandal. If anything, this positions her to understand — and scrutinise — government mechanisms with greater precision than someone parachuted in from outside with no institutional insight. As a communications professional, I must also highlight that this debate reflects a larger challenge — the erosion of ethics and integrity in public discourse. True communication isn't just about broadcasting opinions; it is about educating the public with context, accuracy, and respect for institutions. When we distort narratives for political mileage, we not only mislead the public but undermine trust in democratic processes. Ethical communication, especially in public service, must be upheld — not attacked — if we are to strengthen national confidence and civic understanding. And let's talk about this so-called "cheerleading" for Madani. If public servants attending a national event or sharing an official Facebook post constitutes propaganda, then we might as well shut down every government event since Merdeka. By that logic, any participation in public discourse becomes a conflict of interest. Perhaps next we'll be told that liking a post on workplace safety makes you unfit to investigate construction sites. Let us be clear: auditors are not monks, nor are they mute. Their duty is not to hide in a cave until summoned — it is to engage with governance, communicate transparently, and uphold public trust. Selective outrage over a social media post, or over a conflict of interest exemption that is both legitimate and previously exercised under certain contexts, reeks more of political theatre than constitutional concern. Instead of applauding the fact that the National Audit Department continues to produce thorough, timely reports, certain quarters would rather question the messenger — simply because the message is inconvenient. To the critics: if your goal is to discredit institutional integrity, do so with facts — not conjecture laced with sarcasm and double standards. And please, let's not pretend this is about transparency when it is clearly about politics. Malaysia doesn't need a silent Auditor General. It needs a courageous, competent, and constitutionally appointed one. And, fortunately, it has one.
