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

Budget 2026: RM300 mln to boost corn, aquaculture, padi cultivation in Sabah, Sarawak

A path to happiness in cotton fields — China-Tajik agricultural cooperation bears fruit

AI takes root in China’s fields, driving high-tech harvests

Riding with dreams: Xinjiang horse trainer’s decade of pursuit

Xierzhat Nurumu, a horse trainer from Zhaosu County in Xinjiang, China, pursued his passion for horseback riding despite his parents' initial objections. He started at Xinjiang Yema Group performing basic tasks and rose to become a team captain, training over 800 farmers and herders. His five-year-old daughter, Shakela, shares his passion and they performed together at a horse culture tourism festival in Zhaosu this summer.

Sabah’s new ‘green gold’ launched

Sabah has introduced guarana, a nutrient-rich plant from Brazil, as a new high-potential agricultural commodity. Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey G. Kitingan launched the guarana harvest and seedling distribution in Tambunan. Research by local universities confirms guarana is safe to cultivate. It's expected to boost incomes, particularly for the B40 group, and contribute to Sabah's and Malaysia's economic growth, potentially becoming Sabah's "green gold" and reducing reliance on traditional commodities.

Mushroom cultivation hailed as new economic engine for rural communities

A mushroom cultivation workshop in Sibu, Malaysia, aims to empower rural communities through entrepreneurship. Organized by PDP Bawang Assan and Persatuan Penduduk Engkilo Sungai Bidut, the workshop provided 200 participants with hands-on training and free mushroom cultivation materials. Assemblyman Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh highlighted mushroom farming's potential for sustainable income generation and economic growth, while organizers emphasized the industry's low investment, high productivity, and rapid returns.

Secret code of ’36’: Dog meat memories of Sandakan

In Sandakan, Malaysia, during the 1960s and 70s, dog meat consumption was a common practice among the Chinese community, particularly those from Guangdong and Hong Kong. Unlike some parts of China, where dog meat was openly displayed, in Sandakan, it was a discreet affair. Eateries used the code “36” (three plus six equals nine, which sounds like “dog” in Cantonese and Hakka) as a subtle signal to advertise dog meat dishes. This practice was necessary under British colonial rule, which frowned upon dog meat consumption. The aroma of stewed dog meat was a familiar scent in Sandakan during that era, a stark contrast to the present day where stray dogs roam freely.

The planter’s bookshelf: Core agronomy literature

This article recommends essential reading for oil palm planters and agronomists, emphasizing the importance of foundational knowledge alongside modern techniques. It's presented as a 'field guide' of crucial references, focusing on practical, technical books rather than narrative plantation stories. The author highlights the need for in-depth understanding beyond simply 'walking the fields,' connecting this to the commemoration of International Agronomist's Day 2025 and referencing previous articles on plantation life and agronomy.

Pesta Lada Julau 2025 to showcase pepper as catalyst for agro-tourism, entrepreneurship

The Pesta Lada Julau 2025, a pepper festival taking place in Julau, Sarawak from September 20-27, aims to strengthen the town's reputation as a major pepper producer. The festival will feature over 30 vendors, showcasing innovation and entrepreneurship in the pepper industry. Activities include seminars on smart farming and value-added products, cultural performances, sports competitions, and a beauty pageant. The event is expected to boost the local economy, particularly tourism, with increased demand for homestays and local businesses.

China sees more prosperous agriculture, livable countryside

China's agricultural sector thrived during the 2021-2025 period, achieving record grain production exceeding 700 million tonnes in 2024. This success is attributed to improved farmland infrastructure, technological advancements, and a robust agricultural innovation network. The contribution of technology to grain harvests increased to 63.2%, supported by over 800 institutions and 120,000 researchers. Soybean production also increased, improving self-sufficiency. A bumper harvest is expected in 2025 due to stable summer grain production and promising autumn crops.

Laksa Queen in Beijing: Nusantara flavors conquer palate of China’s capital

In Beijing, a Malaysian couple's restaurant, Laksa Queen, serves Sarawak laksa, acting as a cultural bridge between Malaysia and China. The restaurant's success demonstrates the power of food as a form of cultural diplomacy, evoking nostalgia for Malaysians abroad. The story of Katama Jireh Gingging, son of a Malaysian Embassy officer, waving the Malaysian flag at the restaurant highlights patriotism nurtured from a young age, further emphasizing the restaurant's role in connecting Malaysians to their homeland.

Head of State visits Sungai Sebiew Agricultural Training Centre in Bintulu

Sarawak's Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi visited the Sungai Sebiew Agricultural Training Centre. They were accompanied by Deputy Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan and welcomed by State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohd Asfia Awang Nassar, M-FICORD Minister Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, and other officials. The Governor and his wife planted 'Musang King' and 'Blackthorn' durian trees and received a briefing on the centre's activities, including crop and livestock farming.

Ala Bimbang: Preserving the legacy of Bajau attire

On a scorching hot day in Pulau Bum Bum, Semporna, the vibrant culture of the Bajau people shines through. A Russian visitor, Dr. Ekaterina Rashidin, is captivated by the beauty and uniqueness of the traditional Bajau 'lepa' queen attire, complete with intricate accessories. The mesmerizing 'igal-igal' dance and traditional music further enhance the cultural experience, overshadowing the intense heat. Dr. Ekaterina's enthusiasm to share this cultural gem on social media highlights the potential for attracting global tourism.

AI enlightens Chinese burgeoning light salad industry

Jiang Fangjun, a computer science graduate, is using AI to revolutionize the light salad industry in China. His company, Jiangsu First Farm Technology Co Ltd, uses AI-powered equipment to select standard leaves for salads, catering to the growing health-conscious market. Jiang's innovative approach combines technology with agriculture to meet the increasing demand for healthy and convenient food options.

Lanterns, mooncakes light up The Podium at Mid-Autumn 2025 Fest Market

The Mid-Autumn 2025 Festival Market opened at The Podium in Kuching, featuring lanterns, mooncakes, and cultural performances. Launched by Kuching South mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, the three-day market celebrates Asian traditions with a Sarawakian twist. It offers a variety of food, handicrafts, and family activities, emphasizing the importance of family, reunion, and cultural appreciation. The festival promotes unity, harmony, and love within the community.

China-Sarawak book fair launched at Boulevard Mall Kuching to celebrate cultural exchange

A three-day book exhibition showcasing Chinese and Sarawakian publications was launched at Boulevard Shopping Mall, Kuching. Jointly organized by the Kuching Chinese Cultural Arts Association and China’s Straits Publishing and Distribution Group, the exhibition aims to promote cultural exchange. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian emphasized Sarawak's openness and growing significance as a regional hub, while China’s Consul-General in Kuching, Xing Weiping, likened the event to a modern Silk Road, fostering peace and mutual learning.

Where hooves echo: Xizang’s horse racing tradition endures

The Shoton Festival (Yogurt Festival) in Lhasa, Tibet, featured vibrant horse racing events alongside traditional celebrations. Riders from across the region showcased equestrian skills, including daring performances and an eight-kilometer race. The festival, listed as intangible cultural heritage, also included yogurt consumption, picnics, and Tibetan opera, drawing large crowds and passing traditions to younger generations.

Sarawak allocates RM1 bln for Stumbin-Bijat padi project to boost food security

Sarawak has allocated RM1 billion for a padi cultivation project in Stumbin-Bijat, Sri Aman to boost padi productivity and food security. This initiative reflects the government's commitment to developing the padi and rice sector through infrastructure and support measures. Minister Dr. Stephen Rundi Utom emphasized the importance of farmer commitment, modern methods, and cooperative efforts for success. He also highlighted the potential of palm oil mills to produce livestock feed, contributing to the state's food production chain. Furthermore, he stressed the need for continuous education and training for farmers, especially the younger generation, to ensure long-term sustainability.

4th World Irrigation Forum (WIF4) & 76th International Executive Council (IEC) Meeting Opens in Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia reaffirms commitment to global food security

Malaysia hosted the 4th World Irrigation Forum (WIF4) and 76th International Executive Council (IEC) Meeting in Kuala Lumpur from September 7-13, 2025. Organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) with MANCID and ICID, the event drew over 500 participants globally to discuss the future of irrigation under the theme "Is Irrigation a Sunset Industry?". This marks Malaysia's return to hosting a major international irrigation event after nearly 20 years. Agriculture Minister Mohamad Sabu emphasized the importance of the forum, particularly given the projected global population growth by 2050.

Malaysia National Day celebration brings cultural diversity to Expo 2025 Osaka

Malaysia's National Day parade at Expo 2025 Osaka captivated visitors with a vibrant display of cultural diversity, unity, and heritage. The 30-minute program showcased silat, percussion, cultural dances, and highlighted the nation's multi-ethnic identity. Attendees praised the energy and variety of the performances, expressing their newfound appreciation for Malaysian culture. The parade also inspired some visitors to add Malaysia to their travel plans.