Barisan Nasional (BN) Secretary General Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir stated that BN will address the potential departure of the Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) amicably through internal discussions. Zambry emphasized BN's tradition of collective decision-making and consensus. He highlighted the launch of Scopus AI across Malaysian public universities, making Malaysia the first in the Asia-Pacific to adopt the research tool nationally. He stressed the importance of digitally fluent and ethically grounded leadership for successful AI implementation.
The Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) hosted a STEM competition in Kota Kinabalu for eight secondary schools. The event aimed to spark interest in engineering careers through motivational talks, networking, and a hackathon. SMK St Francis Convent emerged as the champion. The program sought to inspire future engineers, develop problem-solving skills, guide academic pathways, and foster networking between students and industry professionals.
A 100-member delegation from the Sabah China Chamber of Commerce (SCCC), led by President Datuk Frankie Liew, is attending the 15th China Henan International Investment & Trade Fair. The delegation, including over 30 young entrepreneurs, aims to promote Sabah's signature products, expand market reach, and boost international visibility. With nearly 40 booths showcasing local products, the SCCC hopes to strengthen Sabah's international presence, particularly in China. The fair, held in Zhengzhou from September 26-28, features various events including cooperation exchanges and industrial forums covering diverse sectors.
Seven students from the National Youth Skills Institute (IKBN) in Miri, Sarawak have been suspended for a week following a bullying incident. Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh announced the suspension, along with additional disciplinary actions including allowance suspension, mandatory charity work, regular reporting to disciplinary officers, and a one-month curfew. Counselling sessions have been arranged for both the bullies and the victim. The ministry emphasized its zero-tolerance policy towards bullying and misconduct.
The Malaysian government has agreed to establish a National TVET Commission to regulate, coordinate, and monitor the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) ecosystem. Chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, the commission aims to streamline TVET policies, manage student intake, and ensure program quality. This move aligns with the government's goal of making TVET a top educational choice, producing a skilled workforce to boost national economic growth. Stakeholder consultations will be held over the next six months to finalize the commission's establishment.
A video alleging Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey G. Kitingan received RM1.78 million is dismissed as slander by STAR Karambunai chief Datuk Kapitan Stephen Teo. Teo claims the video is manipulated and contains no evidence against Kitingan. He believes it's a politically motivated attack due to the approaching state election and emphasizes Kitingan's long-standing advocacy for Sabahans' rights. Teo highlights the video's inadmissibility as evidence without forensic verification and warns about potential legal repercussions under the Communications and Multimedia Act. He urges STAR members to remain steadfast and support Kitingan.
The Malaysian government's Budi95 initiative will provide targeted RON95 petrol subsidies, potentially saving rural residents up to RM200 per month. PKR Sibuti chief Louis Jampi emphasized the significance of this aid for rural communities, particularly farmers and smallholders who often travel long distances. The subsidies will help offset transportation costs, which constitute a significant portion of their income, and alleviate the economic burden amid rising living costs.
Former Bersatu Sabah deputy chief Aksyah Nasrah has criticized businessman Albert Tei's accusations against Sabah leaders as desperate attempts to smear their reputation. Tei, currently facing court proceedings, accused Deputy Chief Minister Jeffrey Kitingan of receiving kickbacks related to mining licenses. Aksyah questioned Tei's claims, highlighting his not-guilty plea in court, suggesting the alleged payments were political funding, not bribes. He emphasized that corruption requires both a giver and receiver, and since Tei denies giving bribes, his accusations lack credibility. Aksyah urged Sabahans to be wary of Tei's claims, suggesting they are politically motivated ahead of the state election.
Malaysian Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan and other STAR leaders have given statements to the MACC regarding their alleged involvement in a mining scandal revealed in a leaked video. Kitingan denies any knowledge or acceptance of the alleged funds and will cooperate with the MACC investigation. STAR claims the video is manipulated and part of a conspiracy to discredit Kitingan, citing a previous video that exonerated him. They maintain their innocence and will defend themselves in court if charges are filed.
Sarawak Immigration Department arrested 27 foreign workers in Miri during Ops Mahir and Ops Sapu. The operation targeted construction sites, timber yards, and foreign worker settlements. 26 men and one woman were detained for lacking valid travel documents and passes, violating Section 6(1)(c) and Section 15(1) of the Immigration Act 1959/63. The department emphasized ongoing operations to ensure compliance with immigration laws.
A full-scale emergency response exercise simulating an aircraft crash was conducted at Miri Airport, involving 25 agencies and 30 simulated passengers and crew. The drill aimed to test preparedness and coordination in a disaster scenario, including managing fatalities and injuries. While successful, minor shortcomings were identified for post-exercise review. Such drills are conducted annually to meet international aviation safety regulations.
Seven Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) lecturers have been recognized among the World's Top 2% Scientists by Stanford University. The list acknowledges their significant contributions to research and innovation in fields like medicine, biodiversity, and engineering. Unimas Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Ahmad Hata Rasit praised the achievement, highlighting the university's commitment to fostering high-impact research and producing graduates equipped to contribute meaningfully to society.
