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The Star
19 hours ago
- Business
- The Star
New electricity tariff structure offers transparent breakdown, says Fadillah
KUALA LUMPUR: The government's revised electricity tariff structure for Peninsular Malaysia now includes a detailed cost breakdown and new energy efficiency incentives for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. Fadillah, who is also the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, said the new structure - announced by the Energy Commission (ST) on June 20 and implemented from July 1, 2025 - features a transparent itemisation of charges to help consumers better understand the cost components of electricity supply. 'For the first time, the electricity tariff structure clearly displays the energy charge, capacity charge, network charge and retail charge for each consumer category,' he told the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday (July 29). He said this marked a departure from the previous format, which only listed the energy charge and minimum charge. The improved transparency is part of the government's broader effort to raise public awareness and encourage smarter energy use in line with the national energy transition agenda, he said. 'This is an early step towards educating Malaysians to become more energy-conscious consumers,' he added. Fadillah also said that the tariff classification for non-domestic users will no longer be based on economic activity but rather on connection voltage levels. 'This ensures that non-domestic consumers are charged tariffs that reflect the true cost of supplying electricity, while eliminating discrimination based on sector,' he said. The change, he explained, supports sustainability by offering a fair and equal platform for all non-domestic users, regardless of industry. As part of efforts to promote energy efficiency, the government has introduced direct incentives for consumers, including MSMEs with monthly electricity usage of 200kWh or less. 'These targeted incentives are aimed at encouraging efficient energy use among the domestic group and small businesses, which in turn helps balance electricity demand and boost renewable energy generation,' said Fadillah. In addition to these incentives, Fadillah also confirmed that the government has allocated RM40 million under the NUR@Petra programme (Nikmat Untuk Rakyat), aimed at helping households purchase energy-efficient appliances. 'The NUR@Petra programme currently offers rebates of up to RM400 for the purchase of 4- or 5-star energy-efficient air-conditioners and refrigerators,' he said, adding that the move is part of the broader push to reduce electricity consumption through smarter technology adoption. He further clarified that the RM40 monthly electricity rebate, which remains targeted at B40 households, is no longer strictly tied to the e-Kasih database. He said eligibility now also takes into account electricity consumption levels, particularly for households using 600kWh or less per month. 'This rebate system is now partly usage-based, ensuring that support reaches those who genuinely practise prudent energy use, not just those listed under a specific income category,' he said. He stressed that good energy management would not only lower utility costs but also support the broader shift towards cleaner energy sources. Additionally, he said the new tariff structure is designed to drive interest among non-domestic users in adopting renewable energy (RE) as a competitive alternative. 'With greater transparency in cost components, we hope more businesses will explore RE options as part of their corporate responsibility towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050,' he said. Fadillah assured that the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry, in collaboration with ST and Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), is rolling out infographics and public engagement materials to ensure that users fully understand the changes. Consumers may also contact TNB's careline for further clarification to avoid confusion or anxiety over the new tariff system, he added.
The Star
a day ago
- The Star
‘Datuk Seri' scam suspect a no-show
Paper trail: Chong (left) and Hamzah (centre) showing off copies of documents from the 'Datuk Seri' during a press conference at Wisma MCA, Kuala Lumpur. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star KUALA LUMPUR: The plot has thickened in the case of a so-called 'Datuk Seri' accused of swindling people of thousands of ringgit, with the man himself 'volunteering' to reveal his identity publicly. 'He promised yesterday (Sunday) to prove his identity at today's press conference. 'But he changed his mind at the last minute and said he had been hospitalised and could not be present,' said MCA Public Services and Complaints Department head Datuk Seri Michael Chong. Chong said the man had earlier contacted his office, indicating that he wanted to attend the press conference to clear his name. 'But later, he said he couldn't come due to high blood pressure.' Last Friday, Chong had convened a press conference, saying that he had received six reports from people claiming to have been scammed by a person claiming to be a 'Datuk Seri', who supposedly runs an investment scheme. One victim is said to have lost RM400,000 to the man in question. Another victim is said to be a Datin. Following the exposure, Chong said the individual uploaded a copy of his identity card and related documents on his social media to clear his name. 'He also threatened legal action against me and the Council of Datuk Dato' Malaysia (MDDM),' he told reporters yesterday. However, Chong said they had no intention of apologising. 'If he truly holds the title, he should come forward and prove its authenticity. 'He claims to be a Datuk Seri with the description 'Ahli Istana Anak Angkat' above his name. But is that legitimate?' he asked. Chong also showed a copy of an identity card allegedly of the man's partner, who referred to herself as 'Putri'. He urged others who may have fallen victim to the scam to lodge their own police reports. MDDM president Datuk Samson David Maman said the council had received calls from another two individuals claiming they were deceived by the same person. 'We regularly receive complaints about bogus Datuk or Datuk Seri. We urge the public to verify any such claims through the official Bahagian Istiadat dan Urusetia Persidangan Antarabangsa website,' he said. Datuk Hamzah Limin, the Datuk Lembaga Suku Biduanda Raja Balang Luak Johol, reiterated that traditional titles under the Luak Johol jurisdiction are only valid if recommended by the Datuk Undang Johol and officially conferred by the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negri Sembilan at Istana Besar Seri Menanti. 'Any conferment carried out outside of official state ceremonies – such as in hotels or private venues – is not valid,' he said. Hamzah also warned the public against the misuse of traditional symbols and titles, noting that some individuals have used unauthorised emblems, forged documents and royal-style language such as 'Duli Yang Maha Mulia'. 'No titles such as 'anak angkat', 'puteri' or 'putera' have been issued by the Datuk Undang. The public must remain alert to avoid being misled,' he said.
The Star
2 days ago
- The Star
Alleged 'Datuk Seri' scam claims more victims in Kuala Lumpur
KUALA LUMPUR: Two more individuals are believed to have fallen victim to a scam involving a man falsely claiming to hold the honorific title of "Datuk Seri." Two days ago, MCA Public Services and Complaints Department head Datuk Seri Michael Chong revealed that his office had received six reports from individuals who were allegedly scammed by a person posing as a "Datuk Seri." One victim reportedly lost RM400,000 to the individual, who claimed to be running an investment scheme. Chong mentioned that the man in question had previously contacted his office and requested a press conference to clear his name, but later withdrew, citing health concerns. "He claimed he couldn't attend due to high blood pressure," Chong told reporters at a press conference held at Wisma MCA on Monday (July 28). Following the exposure of the alleged scam, Chong said the individual had threatened legal action against both him and the Council of Datuk-Datuk Malaysia (MDDM). "We have no intention of apologising. If he truly holds the title, he should come forward and prove its authenticity. He claims to be a 'Datuk Seri' with the phrase 'Ahli Istana Anak Angkat' above his name - but is that legitimate?' Chong questioned. Chong also displayed a copy of an identity card allegedly belonging to the man's partner, who referred to herself as "Putri," noting that the listed residential address was linked to the title "Undang Luak Johol Ke-14." He said the documents would be submitted to the Datuk Lembaga Suku Biduanda Raja Balang Luak Johol for verification. Chong urged others who may have fallen victim to the scam to lodge police reports. MDDM president Datuk Samson David Maman said the council had also received two calls from individuals claiming they were deceived by the same person, although the victims had yet to come forward. "We regularly receive complaints about bogus 'Datuk' or 'Datuk Seri' titles. We urge the public to verify any such claims through the official Bahagian Istiadat dan Urusetia Persidangan Antarabangsa website," he said. Meanwhile, Datuk Hamzah Limin, the Datuk Lembaga Suku Biduanda Raja Balang Luak Johol, reiterated that traditional titles under the Luak Johol jurisdiction are only valid if recommended by the Datuk Undang Johol and officially conferred by the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan at Istana Besar Seri Menanti. "Any conferment carried out outside of official state ceremonies—such as in hotels or private venues—is not valid," he stressed. Hamzah also warned the public against the misuse of traditional symbols and titles, noting that some individuals have used unauthorised emblems, forged documents, and royal-style language such as "Duli Yang Maha Mulia," which is reserved exclusively for the state ruler. He added that such acts are now punishable under existing laws. "No titles such as 'anak angkat', 'puteri', or 'putera' have been issued by the current Datuk Undang. The public must remain alert to avoid being misled," he said.
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- General
- Borneo Post
Fatimah leads welfare effort for orphaned siblings in Mukah
Fatimah (second right) meets the four orphaned siblings, offering words of comfort and support. – Ukas photo MUKAH (July 27): The Sarawak government, in collaboration with the local community, has swiftly stepped in to support four siblings who were left orphaned following the recent passing of their father, the late Abu Kassim Mohamad. In a compassionate show of solidarity, Sarawak Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, visited the grieving family at Kampung Sungai Alo on Saturday. Fatimah, who is also the Dalat assemblywoman, led the delivery of welfare aid from the state government and various agencies. According to a report by the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), Fatimah announced that the four children would receive monthly assistance of RM800 under the Children's Aid Scheme. In addition, the children would also receive RM50 per month from the state's Special Provision Fund (TPN) for a period of one year, starting from August 2025 until July 2026. 'This assistance is aimed at ensuring the children's well-being is safeguarded and their education and daily lives can continue smoothly despite the loss of their parents,' Fatimah told reporters. A one-off cash aid of RM400 was also credited directly into the account of their aunt, Hawi Shafiee, who is now the children's legal guardian. Several schools, including SK Kampung Seberang, SMK Three Rivers, SMK St Patrick, and the Mukah branch of Tabung Baitulmal Sarawak (TBS), also stepped in to provide essential supplies and financial support. This initiative reflects the compassion and solidarity of both the community and the government in supporting children through tragic circumstances. Fatimah further urged the local community to continue playing an active role in safeguarding the future of the children. 'Though the loss is profound, continued support will provide these children with strength and renewed hope,' she said. The late Abu Kassim, who passed away on July 23 due to health complications, left behind three daughters aged 18, 16, and 7, and a 12-year-old son. His wife had passed away some time ago, leaving the children orphaned. community welfare fatimah abdullah orphan
New Straits Times
4 days ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Datuk councils sound alarm on rise of fake titles
KUALA LUMPUR: A man claiming to be a "Datuk Seri" is under scrutiny for possibly using a fake title to boost his public image. The Council of Federal Datuks (MDPM) and the Council of Datuk Dato' Malaysia (MDDM) held a joint press conference at Wisma MCA yesterday to sound the alarm over a rise in fake titles in the country. MDPM president Datuk Iskandar Abd Malik said his council recently received reports of a man suspected of falsely using a "Datuk Seri" title during public events. He was allegedly listed as an "honorary adviser" for a charity dinner. He was described on the event's poster as a "Datuk Seri" and a "royal adopted son". MDPM executive committee member Datuk Seri Michael Chong said in the first half of the year, his council had received six complaints on fake titles. "People have been duped into investing money after being misled by individuals flaunting false titles, only to realise the deception after suffering financial losses. "In one case, the losses amounted to RM400,000," the MCA veteran said. MDDM secretary-general Datuk Samson David Maman, who has served as an adviser for years, said he had never heard of a title like "royal adopted son" and believed it was fabricated to mislead the public. "Titles such as Datuk, Datuk Seri, Tan Sri or Tun are conferred on people who have made significant contributions to the nation or society. This is why such titles are respected and highly regarded." He said fraudsters often use fake titles or falsely claim royal ties to gain public trust and promote their investment schemes. In a related development, the alleged "Datuk Seri" has come forward and denied allegations of using a fake title. China Press reported that the man said the accusations had damaged his reputation and called on those responsible to issue a public apology. The man claimed he was conferred a title in 2015, but had kept a low profile over the past decade while quietly engaging in charity work. He claimed he began to use the title recently after finding success in his business. Chong responded today, saying that the council would not apologise. He said if this man believed the accusations were unfounded, he was welcome to submit official documentation on his title for verification.
