Malaysia News Today - Breaking News, Politics, Economy, Sports & Technology

Villagers oppose quarry project at Bung Bugai, cite heritage and environmental concerns

Wetlands conservation remains a top priority in Sabah

Sabah Chief Minister Hajiji Noor emphasized the state's commitment to wetland conservation for both environmental and economic benefits. He highlighted eco-tourism, sustainable fisheries, and carbon trading as potential economic drivers while protecting these vital ecosystems. Hajiji noted Sabah's proactive measures, including designating protected areas and supporting mangrove and peatland conservation, aligning with the Sabah Maju Jaya Roadmap's focus on sustainable development.

Sibu Municipal Council wins national award for outstanding climate action

The Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) received the JCI Malaysia Sustainable Development Award 2025 for its climate action initiatives. The award recognizes SMC's efforts in combating climate change and promoting environmental sustainability through programs like recycling, composting, e-waste collection, and energy-efficient lighting. SMC's deputy chairman, Mohammed Abdullah, dedicated the award to the Sibu community and emphasized the council's commitment to collaboration for a greener Sibu. SMC will also participate in World Clean-Up Day 2025 on September 27th.

SFC launches operation to reduce croc population at Samarahan’s Sg Sadong

The Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) is conducting a crocodile population reduction operation in Sungai Sadong, Samarahan, from September 23 to October 3, following a recent fatal crocodile attack. The operation is a response to public safety concerns, and residents are urged to avoid river activities during this period. Recording or media coverage of the operation is prohibited. This follows a search for a 32-year-old man, Ahmad Alzadkhri Sudin, who was attacked by a crocodile on September 15 while shrimping. This incident follows another fatal crocodile attack on a 12-year-old boy earlier that week.

Sarawak-LSE MoU set to boost bilateral efforts

The Sarawak government and the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) signed an MoU to collaborate on environmental sustainability management, human capital development, and global policy innovation. Sarawak Premier Abang Johari highlighted Sarawak's rich natural assets and the importance of global cooperation in conservation. The MoU covers executive education, scholarships, joint research, and integrating sustainability and ESG principles into government policies.

Sarawak Water says murky supply in Miri safe for use

Sarawak Water assures Miri residents that the discolored water supply is safe despite its murky appearance. The discoloration is due to the use of Sungai Bakong as a secondary water source, which has high organic content, and compounded by equipment issues at the Lambir Water Treatment Plant. Repairs and additional treatment measures are underway to resolve the issue. Consumers can contact Sarawak Water's hotline for assistance.

Singapore firm rejects US$1 bln Sri Lankan pollution damages

Singapore shipping company X-Press Feeders refuses to pay the US$1 billion in damages ordered by a Sri Lankan court for the environmental disaster caused by the sinking of the MV X-Press Pearl in 2021. CEO Shmuel Yoskovitz argues that paying the open-ended penalty would set a dangerous precedent for global shipping and challenge the principle of limited liability. The ship, carrying hazardous materials including nitric acid, sank off Colombo after a fire, causing widespread pollution along Sri Lanka's coast.

MBKS Bank Sampah project wins JCI Malaysia’s Sustainable Development Award 2025

Kuching South City Council (MBKS)'s Bank Sampah project won the JCI Malaysia Sustainable Development Award 2025 under SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). The project promotes recycling and waste reduction through a reward system, converting household recyclables into valuable resources. MBKS was selected from 30 finalists nationwide, also having nominated their Kuching Natural Farmers’ Market. This win adds to MBKS's previous JCI SDG awards, highlighting their commitment to sustainability initiatives.

Sadia, Forest Stewardship Council collaborates in workshop on indigenous forestry, global standards’ compliance

The Sarawak Dayak Iban Association (Sadia), along with FSC Malaysia and FSC Indigenous Foundation, held a three-day international workshop on indigenous forestry and FSC certification. 25 participants, including indigenous community representatives, NGOs, and international speakers, discussed sustainable forest management, shared traditional knowledge, and explored community-based forestry initiatives. A field trip to the Bukit Bediri ecotourism project showcased sustainable livelihoods. The workshop aimed to prepare indigenous communities for FSC certification by analyzing their practices against FSC standards.

Five-point strategy proposed to end Sabah’s recurring flood crisis

Former Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Yong Teck Lee proposed a five-point strategy to address recurring floods. The plan focuses on immediate infrastructure repairs and upgrades, preparing water catchment areas with retention ponds, prohibiting hill cutting in sensitive areas, systematic river and drainage improvements, and enforcing environmental laws. Yong emphasized the need for an integrated approach, citing successful past projects like the Likas lagoons and Sungei Likas improvements as models for future mitigation efforts.