Tourism industry players in Malaysia, represented by Sri Ganesh Michiel of the Malaysian Budget and Business Hotel Association, are disappointed with Budget 2023 for not addressing long-term impacts on the hospitality and tourism industry. They call for specific improvements and legal regulations to manage threats from short-term residential accommodation and online travel agencies. Despite an allocation of RM250 million to promote tourism and address road congestion at tourist spots, the industry seeks more effective solutions for sustainable recovery.

The law firm Zaid Ibrahim Suflan TH Liew & Partners, which briefly represented former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak in his SRC International corruption appeal, has accused ad hoc prosecutor Datuk V Sithambaram of making slanderous statements about them in court. The firm claims Sithambaram's assertion that they took over Najib's case solely to seek an adjournment is factually incorrect and damaging to their reputation. The firm clarified that they did not instruct Najib's lead counsel, Datuk Hisyam Teh Poh Teik, and were discharged by Najib after the Federal Court rejected Hisyam's application to postpone the appeal. Najib is seeking a review of the Federal Court's decisions related to his corruption case.

Tourism industry players in Malaysia express disappointment over Budget 2023, citing a lack of long-term positive impact and specific improvements for the hospitality and tourism sectors. The President of the Malaysian Budget and Business Hotel Association, Sri Ganesh Michiel, highlights the need for more effective solutions and specific laws to address threats from short-term residential accommodations and online travel agencies.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that RM10 million from Budget 2023 will be allocated to the Restu Foundation to publish and distribute one million copies of the Quran, including 20,000 translations in Swedish and other major foreign languages. This initiative is in response to recent prejudicial actions against Islam, such as the burning of the Quran in Sweden.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced a RM10 million allocation for the publication and worldwide distribution of 20,000 translations of the Quran in Swedish and other major foreign languages. This initiative, in response to the recent burning of the Quran in Sweden by right-wing politician Rasmus Paludan, will be carried out by Yayasan Restu. Anwar condemned the act and stated that Malaysia, along with other Muslim nations, will participate in the global distribution of the Quran.

The Selangor Religious Department (Jais) has cancelled a sermon event by popular preacher Azhar Idrus that was scheduled to take place at the Tengku Ampuan Mosque in Bukit Jelutong, Selangor. The event has been moved to the Ar-Rahimah Mosque in Kampung Pandan, Kuala Lumpur. Last month, Jais, which enforces the edicts of the Selangor Islamic Council (Mais), issued a circular prohibiting political events in the state's mosques and suraus. Mais is the highest religious authority in Selangor and advises the state's head of Islam, the Sultan of Selangor.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced an increase in the individual investment limit for Amanah Saham Bumiputera (ASB) and Amanah Saham Bumiputera 2 (ASB2) to RM300,000 from RM200,000. Additionally, the government will expand the fund size of Amanah Saham Malaysia (ASM) by RM5 billion. Anwar also mentioned an increased dividend distribution for ASB this year.

The Malaysia Plastics Recyclers Association (MPRA) has raised concerns about the revised electricity subsidy scheme announced by the Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change (NRECC) Ministry. According to MPRA's secretary-general Datuk Johnson Yoon, the new scheme could negatively affect plastic recyclers and lead to increased costs for local consumers.

The Real Estate and Housing Developers' Association Malaysia (Rehda) has acknowledged the impact of work from home (WFH) and hybrid working culture on future home design. Rehda's president, Datuk NK Tong, revealed that a survey showed 89 out of 130 developers are planning to incorporate house designs that better suit the home working environment. Additionally, 67 respondents indicated they would plan office buildings to accommodate remote and hybrid work.

Datuk Armand Azha Abu Hanifah has been summoned by the Umno disciplinary board to address unspecified complaints. Despite not knowing the reasons, he is prepared to provide explanations. Armand Azha, who aims to contest for the Umno Youth chief post, faces potential disqualification if suspended or expelled. The current Youth chief, Datuk Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, will not seek re-election. Umno elections are set from February 1 to March 18, with the Youth wing elections on March 11 and the main body on March 18. The recent Umno general assembly decided that the top two posts would not be contested, leading to the suspension of several leaders, including Khairy Jamaluddin Abu Bakar.

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has initiated an investigation into Awesome TV for a news report alleging that the government plans to dismiss over 800,000 civil servants. The investigation is being conducted under Section 206 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for non-compliance with licensing conditions. If found guilty, Awesome TV could face a fine of up to RM100,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is investigating Awesome TV for a news report claiming the government will sack over 800,000 civil servants. The investigation is under Section 206 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. If convicted, the penalties include fines or imprisonment. Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil denied the allegations, stating that the government has not proposed reducing the number of civil servants. Awesome TV has previously faced criticism for violating regulations and using racial tones in its reporting.

Datuk Armand Azha Abu Hanifah has been summoned by the Umno disciplinary board to address unspecified complaints. He claims to be unaware of the reasons behind the summons and is prepared to provide explanations. A press conference will be held after his meeting with the board at the Umno headquarters.

Parti Pejuang Tanah Air's decision to leave the Gerakan Tanah Air coalition aims to enable party president Mukhriz Mahathir to regain political relevance ahead of upcoming state elections. Sources indicate that Mukhriz's faction seeks to distance itself from leaders loyal to GTA founder Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and may reach out to the Pakatan Harapan coalition. The move follows Pejuang's poor performance in recent elections, prompting internal changes and strategic realignments. Despite the split, the party maintains respect for Dr Mahathir while pursuing new political alliances.

Tan Sri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil has formally submitted her candidacy for the Wanita Umno chief post, potentially facing incumbent Datuk Seri Noraini Ahmad in the upcoming party polls. Shahrizat, who led the Umno women's wing from 2009 to 2018, is making a comeback following calls from 147 Wanita division chiefs. Political observers suggest her return may not benefit Umno, which needs fresh leadership to reinvent itself.

Parti Pejuang Tanah Air's recent departure from the Gerakan Tanah Air coalition is reportedly a strategic move to enable party president Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir and his faction to regain political significance in anticipation of upcoming state elections. A source within GTA claims that this split was orchestrated to remove obstacles from Pejuang's path, particularly those loyal to GTA founder Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, and to facilitate new alliances.

Parti Pejuang Tanah Air's decision to leave the Gerakan Tanah Air coalition aims to enable party president Mukhriz Mahathir and his faction to regain political relevance ahead of upcoming state elections. Sources indicate that Mukhriz's faction seeks to distance itself from leaders loyal to GTA founder Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and may reach out to the Pakatan Harapan coalition. The move follows Pejuang's poor performance in recent elections, prompting internal changes and a focus on new alliances. Despite the split, respect for Dr Mahathir remains, though his continued political involvement is questioned due to his age.

Parti Pejuang Tanah Air's decision to leave the Gerakan Tanah Air coalition aims to facilitate party president Mukhriz Mahathir's political comeback ahead of upcoming state elections. Sources indicate that Mukhriz's faction seeks to take over party leadership and form new alliances, viewing some leaders loyal to GTA founder Dr Mahathir Mohamad as obstacles to their progress.

A report by Auditor-General Datuk Seri Nik Azman Nik Abdul Majid revealed that 93 out of 136 ventilators supplied to Ministry of Health facilities were unusable during the Covid-19 pandemic, resulting in a loss of RM13.07 million. The report highlighted management weaknesses, including unreturned funds and excess personal protective equipment. It also pointed out staffing shortages in the Intensive Care Unit during the pandemic, recommending that the Ministry of Health and Public Services Department address these issues.

The Auditor-General's 2021 report revealed that the RM190 million Food Security Fund Programme under the Prihatin Rakyat Economic Stimulus Package did not meet its targets. The audit covered four agencies—Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority, Farmers Organisation Authority, Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board, and Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority—managing six programs with 1,248 projects. The failure was attributed to inefficient coordination among the agencies.

A 'super admin' account of unknown origin downloaded personal information of three million MySejahtera users in 2021, raising significant data security concerns. The Auditor-General's report highlighted multiple weaknesses in the app, including numerous attacks, multiple identities, and incomplete vaccination records. Recommendations were made for the Health Ministry to improve data management and security. The audit also covered other government bodies and health departments.

Former health minister Khairy Jamaluddin Abu Bakar has started a temporary role as a co-host on Hot FM's breakfast talk show Bekpes Hot, aiming to stay relevant after his dismissal from Umno and losing the general election. He humorously cited financial reasons for taking the job and hinted at a future management role with Johor Darul Ta’zim Football Club. Khairy's stint on the radio show is temporary, filling in for Fara Fauzana, who is on a pilgrimage.

The Malaysian government aims to expand the 'Rahmah' initiative to include more participants and sponsors, extending beyond meals to other products. Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub announced this at a press conference, highlighting collaboration with banks and industry players to address rising living costs. The initiative seeks to involve major companies like Petronas to encourage broader participation.

Effective today, Malaysian private vehicle owners are no longer required to display physical road tax stickers as the government transitions to digital services via the MyJPJ application. This initiative, led by Transport Minister Anthony Loke, aims to streamline processes, reduce congestion at JPJ counters, and save costs. The first phase targets individual private vehicles, with future phases planned. Enforcement will now rely on digital checks, though e-hailing, goods, and company vehicles must still follow traditional procedures. The move is expected to curb fake licenses and save the agency approximately RM96 million annually.

The Malaysian Vape Industry Advocacy (MVIA) reports that 82% of vape businesses urge the government to regulate the industry, a move delayed since 2015. A poll by RegulateVape shows strong support for regulation to prevent sales to children and ensure product safety. MVIA President Rizani Zakaria emphasizes that most businesses are self-regulating and that regulation could boost job opportunities and investments. However, there is concern over drastic measures like the generational endgame proposal to ban smoking for those born from 2007. MVIA advocates for immediate regulation to support industry growth and economic contribution.

Malaysia Airports, through its operations at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, is playing a crucial role in facilitating rescue and cargo flights following a devastating earthquake in Turkey. The airport has been designated as a rescue and logistics hub by the Turkish government, supporting search and rescue efforts and providing necessary aid. Malaysia is also sending the Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) to assist in the efforts, with coordination from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The earthquake, which struck the southern region of Kahramanmaras, has resulted in significant casualties in both Turkey and Syria.

Pakatan Harapan chairman and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the formation of the Unity Government Secretariat to organize allied parties for the upcoming state elections in six Malaysian states. The secretariat, led by Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusuf from Gabungan Parti Sarawak and Datuk Seri Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki from Barisan Nasional, will oversee election strategies and seat distribution. Anwar emphasized the importance of unified policymaking and addressing priority issues like the rising cost of living. The announcement was made at the Umno headquarters, marking Anwar's return after 25 years.

The Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association (Rehda) has called for a reduction in recalibration fees for the Labour Recalibration Programme 2.0 (RTK 2.0) from RM1,500, arguing that the current fee is too high for many businesses. Rehda President Datuk NK Tong emphasized that lower fees would encourage participation in the programme, aiding economic recovery and allowing companies to offer more jobs. The programme, which started on January 27, aims to legalize foreign workers in various sectors, including manufacturing, construction, and agriculture.

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani emphasized the importance of adhering to the government dress code at police stations, citing the fifth principle of the Rukun Negara. Exceptions are made only in life or death emergencies. This statement follows an incident where a woman was denied entry to a police station due to the length of her trousers, which sparked public debate. The woman, identified as 'Karen,' was initially barred from entering the Kajang police station but was later allowed entry after changing into longer trousers.

Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli urges Opposition lawmakers to cooperate with the government's agenda and cease stoking racial tensions before demanding equal funding with backbenchers. He references a previous Memorandum of Understanding between the government and Opposition during the Ismail Sabri administration, highlighting that the current Opposition has not initiated any efforts and merely waits for provisions.

Inspector General of Police Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani expressed hope that the murder case of e-hailing driver Nurman Bakaratu in Tawau, Sabah, involving eight policemen, will be prosecuted. The policemen, including senior officials, are under investigation and remand until February 8. Nurman's ex-wife, Nurima Juli, has been charged with his murder, but it is believed she did not act alone. The investigation continues to gather more details.

Inspector General of Police Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani expressed hope that the murder case of an e-hailing driver in Tawau, Sabah, involving eight policemen, will be prosecuted. The policemen, including senior officials, are under investigation and remand until February 8. Acryl Sani emphasized the need for further investigation to gather finer details before prosecution.

PKR deputy president Rafizi Ramli emphasized the importance of avoiding nepotism within the party following the controversial appointments of Nurul Izzah Anwar and Iqbal Johari to positions under their fathers, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Dewan Rakyat Speaker Johari Abdul, respectively. He acknowledged public concerns and stressed that future appointments should not involve taxpayer money. Both Anwar and Johari defended the appointments, citing their children's qualifications and the lack of public funds involved.

Minister of Transport Anthony Loke will inspect the full length of the MRT Putrajaya Line (MRT2) in a test run next week as part of the final phase of testing. The MRT2, Malaysia's second Mass Rapid Transit line, runs from Kwasa Damansara to Putrajaya, passing through several densely populated areas. Loke also announced a new shuttle bus service from KL Sentral to the Parliament to ease congestion and parking issues, and hinted at major announcements regarding Subang Airport and the Digitalisation Project for the Road Transport Department.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke will inspect the full length of the MRT Putrajaya Line (MRT2) during a test run next week, as part of the final phase of testing regulated by the Land Transport Agency (Apad). The trial will include a ride from Putrajaya Sentral station to Kwasa Damansara with a stop at Titiwangsa station.

Bersatu, led by President Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, is seeking to have its bank accounts unfrozen by the Malaysia Anti Corruption Commission (MACC) to pay staff salaries and prepare for upcoming state elections. The party's 2021 and 2022 accounts have been audited, showing funds from verifiable sources. The MACC froze the accounts during an investigation into alleged misuse of RM600 billion in Covid-19 pandemic funds during Muhyiddin's tenure as prime minister and possible donations from contractors to Bersatu.

Perikatan Nasional (PN) has established 26 portfolio committees to oversee federal ministries in the Malaysian Parliament, led by Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin. Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced the initiative, highlighting the MPs' skills and experience, and reiterated PN's commitment to the 'Wawasan Kemakmuran Bersama' agenda, which focuses on equitable wealth distribution beyond race and religion.

The Sabah chapter of Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) is undergoing restructuring after Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor left for another party. Despite this, vice-president Datuk Seri Ronald Kiandee asserts that the grassroots members will remain loyal and the party will not be shaken. Hajiji's departure led to a significant walkout last December, but Kiandee believes the branch-level leaders are still strong and committed to Bersatu.

Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor has proposed that state elections in six states be held simultaneously between June and July to save costs and time. He hopes Pakatan Harapan (PH) states will align with this plan. Informal discussions have been held, and Negeri Sembilan's state assembly is set to dissolve on June 1, making it practical to hold elections within two months. The six states involved include three led by PH (Negeri Sembilan, Selangor, Penang) and three by PAS (Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah).

The Sabah chapter of Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) is restructuring after Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor's departure to Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat), but vice-president Datuk Seri Ronald Kiandee believes the grassroots will remain loyal. Hajiji's move caused a political crisis in Sabah, but Kiandee does not foresee further departures and is planning a revamp to replace divisional leaders who left. Sabah Bersatu will hold meetings throughout the year, with its general assembly scheduled for November.

Perikatan Nasional (PN) is holding a two-day retreat for its MPs to prepare for the upcoming parliamentary session. Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin emphasized the coalition's commitment to being an effective opposition. PN, comprising PAS, Bersatu, and Gerakan, won 74 seats in the last general election but declined to join the unity government.

Malaysia's Corruption Perception Index (CPI) score has dropped to its lowest in a decade, scoring 47 out of 100 points, despite moving up one spot to 61st out of 108 countries. Muhammad Mohan, chairman of TI-Malaysia, attributes the decline to a lack of political will to combat corruption, unqualified political appointments, and insufficient scrutiny of pandemic stimulus packages. He also criticized the Ministry of Defence's handling of the Littoral Combat Ship project. However, he noted positive developments such as institutional reforms under the Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob and Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim governments, including commitments to good governance and fighting corruption.

Transparency International-Malaysia expressed concern over Nurul Izzah Anwar's appointment as senior economic adviser to her father, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, citing nepotism. The watchdog suggested her talents could be better utilized in a separate ministry. Malaysia's 2022 Corruption Perception Index reflected its worst performance in a decade. Despite the backlash, the watchdog acknowledged Nurul Izzah's integrity and the Prime Minister's need for reliable assistance.

Khairy Jamaluddin Abu Bakar, the former Umno Youth chief, has decided not to appeal his sacking from the party, citing the futility of appealing to the same decision-makers who expelled him. He discussed the matter with former supreme council member Tan Sri Noh Omar and former Umno information chief Shahril Hamdan, who were also purged from the party. Khairy and Noh were sacked following an Umno supreme council meeting.

The Malaysian chapter of Hizbur Tahrir held protests outside the Swedish and Dutch embassies in Kuala Lumpur, condemning the desecration of the Quran by far-right political leaders Rasmus Paludan and Edwin Wagensveld. The group demanded apologies from the Netherlands government and criticized Muslim leaders for not issuing stern warnings. The protests were peaceful and ended without incident.

The District Court of Luxembourg dismissed the claim by individuals identifying as heirs of the Sultan of Sulu for a Petronas asset, marking a legal victory for Malaysia. Law Minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said highlighted that Malaysia has consistently rejected the legitimacy of the arbitration led by Dr. Gonzalo Stampa, which was previously recognized by a Madrid court. The decision underscores Malaysia's commitment to invalidating the claimants' awards.

Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan announced that a decision on whether to refer former Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin to the party’s disciplinary board would be made in a meeting this afternoon. This follows Khairy's allegations of delegate stacking at the recent Umno general assembly, which were denied by other top leaders, including Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. The meeting, chaired by Mohamad Hasan, will deliberate on this matter among others.

The 'One Member One House' (SASaR) programme for the Malaysian Armed Forces is progressing as planned, with the Sungai Besi project currently at 21 percent completion. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan is confident that the housing units will be ready by the end of 2024, provided there are no labour or supply chain issues. The project requires an additional 300 to 400 laborers to meet the target date, but the reliance on local materials is expected to mitigate potential supply constraints.

State-owned Felcra Berhad, under the direction of Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, will focus on enhancing Malaysia's food security. The initiative aims to reduce food imports and stabilize foreign currency balance by leveraging Felcra's extensive land and resources. This effort is part of Felcra's 'Transformation 3.0' programme, which includes increasing the production of main crops, vegetables, and animal feed. Additionally, Zahid's ministry is addressing issues of authority abuse and non-compliance highlighted in the Auditor-General's Report.

Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil has expressed disagreement with the promotional trailer for the horror movie 'Pulau,' following backlash from the majority Malay-Muslim community. Golden Screen Cinemas has been instructed to take down the trailer, and a new edit is being prepared. Fahmi mentioned the need to review standard operating procedures at the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia, although the final decision on the movie rests with the Film Censorship Board under the Home Ministry. The controversy centers on scenes of a sexual nature in the trailer, which critics have labeled as 'soft porn.'

Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil has criticized the promotional trailer for the horror movie 'Pulau' following backlash from the Malay-Muslim community. The trailer, aired by Golden Screen Cinemas, has been taken down for re-editing due to scenes deemed inappropriate. Fahmi emphasized the need to review standard operating procedures at the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia, while the Film Censorship Board will have the final say on the movie's approval. The controversy centers on scenes of a sexual nature, leading to public outcry and demands for the government to revoke the movie's screening approval.

Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced that former PAS Syura Ulama Council secretary Khairuddin Aman Razali will join Umno's newly-formed Ulama Council, led by Datuk Dusuki Ahmad. Zahid expressed confidence in Dusuki's leadership on religious affairs, highlighting the council's role in guiding the party's adherence to Quran and Sunnah. Khairuddin, previously sacked from PAS and serving as an independent MP, will assist in the council's leadership.

The 2022 Umno General Assembly highlighted the party's struggles following a poor performance in the 15th general election. Key developments included a controversial 'no contest' motion to secure the current leadership, efforts to justify the unity government with Pakatan Harapan to grassroots members, and the looming challenges of upcoming state elections. The assembly underscored internal divisions and the need for strategic planning to regain relevance and support.

The 2022 UMNO General Assembly followed a poor election performance, signaling the party's decline since 2008. Key developments included a 'no contest' motion to protect the president's position, the need to sell the idea of a unity government with former rivals PKR and DAP to grassroots members, and the challenge of upcoming state elections after losing traditional seats. The assembly highlighted internal disagreements and the potential for further decline if poor election results continue.

Umno information chief Isham Jalil refutes former Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin's claims of 'import delegates' at the party's 2022 annual general assembly, asserting that all delegates are familiar with each other and urging Khairy to apologize. Selangor Umno information chief Jamal Yunos supports Isham's stance, calling for disciplinary action against Khairy for his allegations. Khairy had earlier claimed on TikTok that measures were being taken to prevent Umno's top leaders from facing competition, including the removal of name tags to allow import delegates to vote in favor of maintaining the current leadership.

Umno members are urged to respect the decision made by delegates to have no contests for the party's top two positions, as stated by Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. The decision was made according to the party's constitution and rules during the 2022 Umno assembly at the World Trade Centre. Allegations of irregular voting and 'imported delegates' by former Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin are to be investigated by the disciplinary board. The motion for the presidency and deputy presidency to be uncontested in the internal election, which must be held before May 19, was voted through by Umno delegates.

An Umno delegate submitted a motion to prevent contests for the president and deputy president posts in the upcoming internal election, aiming to safeguard the party's institutions. The motion, supported by other delegates, highlights the importance of maintaining current leadership under Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. The debate on this motion was not broadcasted live, and party information chief Isham Jalil emphasized the need for transparency in candidacy announcements. The decision on whether the top two posts will be contested remains pending, with differing views among party leaders.

Umno begins its 2022 general assembly amid efforts to remain relevant following its worst general election performance, losing seats to Perikatan Nasional. The party's alliance with Pakatan Harapan has been crucial for its survival, though it faces internal challenges and skepticism from its grassroots. Key leaders, including Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Khairy Jamaluddin, are positioning themselves for upcoming party elections. The assembly aims to consolidate support and prepare for state elections, with significant participation from various Umno wings and delegates.

The Malaysian government has threatened to suspend The Star newspaper over a controversial front page juxtaposing a headline about a terrorist leader with a picture of Muslims praying. The government issued a 'show cause' order, demanding an explanation within seven days. The Star apologized and suspended its top editors. This incident highlights Prime Minister Najib Razak's willingness to confront the media, continuing a pattern of media suppression seen in previous actions against other publications. Observers note the religious sensitivity of the issue and the broader context of political control over Malaysian media.