KUALA LUMPUR, May 4 — A viral video showing a confrontation between a bus driver and several motorists at the Simpang Pulai rest-and-service area (R&R) has triggered widespread backlash online, with many Malaysians condemning the alleged treatment of the driver.

The 42-second clip, which has been widely circulated on social media, shows several vehicles parked in what appeared to be a designated bus parking area, allegedly obstructing access for buses.

According to text overlaid on the video, the confrontation began after the bus driver asked the motorists to move their vehicles from the bay.

The caption accompanying the clip further alleged that one of the individuals involved became aggressive and spat at the driver during the dispute, prompting outrage among social media users.

Many commenters expressed sympathy for the driver, arguing that bus parking bays should be respected to avoid disrupting public transport operations.

Others urged authorities to take stricter action against motorists who misuse parking spaces reserved for buses and heavy vehicles, especially at busy highway stopovers.

The incident has also reignited broader complaints online over poor parking etiquette and a perceived lack of enforcement at rest-and-service areas nationwide.

At the time of writing, Ipoh police had yet to issue a statement on the incident.

SUBANG, May 4 — Three prominent Malaysian media figures paid a heartfelt visit to fellow National Journalism Laureate, Adibah Amin, who is currently unwell.

Tan Sri Johan Jaafar, Datuk Abdul Kadir Jasin, and Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai called on the 90-year-old veteran journalist at her home to convey their well-wishes and support.

Adibah, a revered figure in Malaysian journalism and literature, is widely admired for her contributions to the industry, as well as her role in shaping generations of writers and readers through her columns and books.

During the visit, the trio reminisced about their years in the media, sharing reflections on the profession’s evolution and the values that have guided them throughout their careers.

They also expressed their deep appreciation for Adibah, whose enduring legacy includes her work with New Straits Times and The Star, describing her as a trailblazer who left an indelible mark on Malaysian journalism.

Wong, who is the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) chairman, said Adibah was an exemplary journalist who wrote passionately on moderation and multiculturalism.

“She wrote on the commonalities and camaraderie of Malaysians. She will always endear Malaysians,” he said, adding that he hoped a new generation would produce another translator of her calibre.

Despite her condition, Adibah remained warm and gracious, embodying the spirit and passion that have defined her decades-long career.

The visit served as a poignant reminder of the close bonds within the media fraternity, as well as the deep respect and admiration its members hold for one another.

All four are recipients of the National Journalism Laureate award, which recognises outstanding contributions to journalism and the nation.

Another laureate, CC Liew, formerly of Sin Chew Daily, was unable to attend.

Only 14 individuals have received the honour since it was introduced by the Malaysian Press Institute in 1988. Past recipients include Tan Sri A. Samad Ismail, Tan Sri Lee Siew Yee, Tan Sri Melan Abdullah, Tan Sri Mazlan Nordin, Tan Sri Zainuddin Maidin and Datuk Ishak Muhammad. 

Besides Adibah, Johan, 72, Kadir, 78, Liew, 87, and Wong, 65, are the only living recipients.

Meanwhile, Johan described the visit as deeply meaningful, calling Adibah a distinguished literary icon.

He praised her exceptional command of both Malay and English, noting that her translation skills should serve as an exemplary model for younger generations.

“She wrote in Malay with precise grammar and near-perfect structure, and equally well in English. She was a teacher, a master of both languages.

“Her ability to fully harness her talents, not only as a bilingual writer but also as a novelist, was something to be emulated,” Johan said.

Abdul Kadir, on the other hand, described Adibah as a remarkable figure with diverse talents spanning journalism, literature and acting.

“She was once my editor at Berita Harian, and later our roles were reversed when I became her editor,” he said.

Abdul Kadir also encouraged the public to read Adibah’s newly released book, As I Was Passing (Legacy Edition), a curated collection of her well-known columns.

“For me, her writing is truly iconic. She not only captures the past but also serves as an example for younger generations,” he added. — Bernama 

KOTA KINABALU, May 4 — Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Haji Noor is confident the state’s tourism sector will remain resilient despite challenges posed by the current Middle East conflict.

He said that while the government has been refining its strategies, continued investor interest in the state showed Sabah would be able to weather the challenges.

“This crisis will fundamentally reshape how we operate. Every sector will be affected, which means we must adapt and innovate in our business practices.

“Yet, the future remains bright. Despite these obstacles, I am heartened to see strong investor confidence in Sabah’s tourism sector,” he said during his speech at the grand opening of the Sheraton Kota Kinabalu hotel here.

Hajiji said the state tourism ministry had stepped up efforts to ensure Sabah remains an attractive global destination in response to emerging industry challenges.

He outlined strategies such as fostering partnerships with global airlines to enhance connectivity, developing premium tourism products, improving service standards to international benchmarks, and hosting high-value events.

“Through these efforts, we will position Sabah as both a premier holiday destination and a dynamic business hub,” he said.

Hajiji said several other hotel brands were also in the pipeline, including Avani and Fairfield by Marriott, Grandis at The Peninsula in Kota Kinabalu, Club Med in Kuala Penyu, InterContinental in Papar, and Wyndham in Semporna.

The developments are expected to add 2,740 rooms to the state’s existing hotel inventory.

He said the projects would not only create hundreds of jobs through the hotels themselves, but also generate opportunities across supply chains, services, and related businesses.

“Local suppliers, restaurants, and attractions will benefit tremendously.

“Beyond the economic benefits, these new hotel developments will elevate Sabah’s profile as a premier destination. They will attract conferences, corporate events, and travellers who will experience the very best we have to offer, thereby strengthening our economy through sustained tourism revenue,” he said.

Hajiji said the developments were timely ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and would also serve as a catalyst for Sabah’s preparations for Visit Sabah Year 2027.

He also expressed confidence that the RM300 million Sheraton Kota Kinabalu would help showcase Sabah’s culture, heritage, and warm hospitality.

KUALA LUMPUR, May 4 — A manufacturing company was fined RM120,000 by the Sessions Court in Butterworth today for failing to implement engineering controls to reduce workplace noise exposure.

National daily Utusan Malaysia reported that Judge Roslan Hamid imposed the fine after the company pleaded guilty to a charge under Section 18B(2) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994.

According to the case facts, the company failed to carry out noise control measures recommended by a Noise Risk Assessor, including the installation of physical noise barriers in areas involving machine operations.

The failure led to two workers suffering Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL), which occupational health officers confirmed was caused by prolonged exposure to industrial noise.

An offence under Section 18B carries a penalty of up to RM500,000, a jail term of up to two years, or both.

The prosecution was conducted by Penang Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) prosecuting officer Abdul Rahim Sabri, while the investigation was led by investigating officers Ir. Abdul Hafiz Ahmad and Norfaiza Fadil.

Meanwhile, Penang DOSH said it would not compromise against employers who fail to comply with workplace safety and health laws.

“Enforcement action will continue to be intensified to ensure a safe and healthy working environment for all workers,” it said in a statement.

PUTRAJAYA, May 4 — The Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW) has saved at least RM250 million through expenditure adjustments, including programme restructuring.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the savings would be channelled to the Ministry of Finance (MOF) to help fund fuel subsidies for the public.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Minister in charge of KKDW, said the savings were achieved by scaling back promotional events, product exhibitions and other low-impact programmes.

“A circular has been issued by the MOF requiring all ministries to implement cost-saving measures, and KKDW is no exception.

“In fact, even before the directive, we had proposed reducing programmes with relatively limited impact, prioritising infrastructure, water supply, electricity and rural amenities instead,” he told reporters after the ministry’s monthly assembly here today.

In his speech, Ahmad Zahid also urged KKDW staff to adopt the National Rural Economy as a new mindset focused on raising incomes, expanding economic opportunities and improving the quality of life in rural communities.

“We must be bold in seizing new potential within the rural ecosystem. This is the foundation of the National Rural Economy, a comprehensive approach to transform rural areas from supporting zones into a new engine of national growth.

“Rural areas possess land, plantations, commodities, biomass, micro-entrepreneurs, youth, women, Orang Asli communities, cooperatives and strong social networks.

“If these are organised into a cohesive ecosystem, rural areas can become a new source of national growth,” he said. — Bernama 

NILAI, May 4 — Malaysian Haj pilgrims have been advised to follow the advice of doctors, health officers and Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) personnel throughout their stay in the Holy Land to ensure their pilgrimage is carried out smoothly and safely.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan said temperatures in Saudi Arabia are currently around 34° to 35°Celsius and are expected to rise, thus pilgrims need to pay close attention to their health while performing the Haj.

“Conditions in Saudi Arabia and the Holy Land are currently good. Pilgrims are advised to follow the advice of doctors, health officers and personnel there, and to remain focused on performing their religious duties to the best of their ability,” he told reporters here today.

Earlier, he officiated the Islamic Media Arts Academy (ASMI) module book and course at Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), which was also attended by USIM Pro-Chancellor Tunku Zain Al ‘Abidin Tuanku Muhriz.

Meanwhile, Zulkifli described the recent passing of a Malaysian Haj pilgrim in the Holy Land as God’s will, adding that the 65-year-old had passed the required health screenings.

Malaysian Haj Delegation head Mohd Hisham Harun was reported as saying that the deceased, who was in the Holy Land with his wife, was confirmed to have passed away at 12.15pm local time (5.15pm Malaysian time) due to heart complications.

He said funeral arrangements were fully managed by TH, including transporting the remains to Masjidil Haram for funeral prayers after Maghrib before burial at Al Sharayea Cemetery in Makkah.

Meanwhile, Zulkifli said ASMI, organised by USIM and TV AlHijrah today is a strategic initiative to introduce module books and training courses designed to develop the talent, skills and competencies of Islamic media practitioners.

He said the role of Islamic media is becoming increasingly critical and can no longer be seen merely as an alternative, but must emerge as a primary reference that upholds narratives of truth, justice and well-being.

“We are facing a phenomenon known as information overload across social media, which often blurs the line between truth and falsehood. Media is not merely a tool for disseminating news, but an instrument that can shape and influence the way people think, their lifestyles and the value systems of a society,” he said.

The programme, attended by 100 participants comprising representatives from universities, the media industry and other agencies, focuses on dakwah communication, Islamic media content production, media management, strategies for delivering dakwah to various segments of society, as well as media crisis management. — Bernama 

PUTRAJAYA, May 4 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stressed that Malaysia adopts a balanced approach in economic diplomacy, prioritising national interests, including energy security.

He said trade negotiations with strategic partners such as Australia are conducted on a reciprocal basis, taking into account Malaysia’s need to import raw materials such as phosphate for fertiliser production, while exporting urea.

“We import phosphate, we export urea… that is why in my discussions with the Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese, who was here two weeks ago, he asked for urea and I said that is possible provided he supplies phosphate.

“He (Albanese) asked for oil, and I said if we have a surplus we can supply it, but if we do not, we cannot — despite claims out there asking how Anwar sold oil to the Philippines; when did we sell oil to the Philippines?” he said when addressing the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability’s monthly assembly here today.

As such, he called on all parties to provide accurate facts, as this is a matter of national security and should not be treated as a political issue.

Anwar said Malaysia will continue to strengthen economic cooperation with key trading partners, including China and the United States, despite differences in views on geopolitical issues.

“The United States remains Malaysia’s number one trading partner and investor. Do we agree with its foreign policy? No. Do we agree with its actions in attacking Iran? No. Do we agree with it allowing the killing of children and women in Gaza? No.

“So we continue to uphold the independence I refer to as Asean centrality. We speak up because we are an independent and sovereign nation,” he said.

At the same time, he stressed that Malaysia will not compromise on key national policies, including those related to Bumiputera interests, in any trade negotiations.

“We can trade, but we will not allow others to dictate our policies. If we dismantle or overhaul these policies, it could create domestic political tensions that we cannot control. So there are limits,” he said.

He also stressed the need to maintain a pragmatic approach in international relations to ensure foreign investment flows are not disrupted.

“If we confront everything, new investments will be affected,” he said.

In a related development, he said Malaysia still has strengths in high-value sectors such as electrical and electronics (E&E) and artificial intelligence (AI), which continue to attract global investors.

He added that multinational companies such as Intel and Amazon Web Services continue to expand their investments in the country.

“This means that while we face challenges in some areas, we are still benefiting from others,” he said. — Bernama 

PUTRAJAYA, May 4 — The Home Ministry (KDN) wants the construction of a Remote Sensor Site (RSS) on Pulau Malawali to be expedited, said its minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

Speaking at the KDN Monthly Assembly here today, he said the RSS is crucial in enhancing the country’s capability to detect threats in maritime areas, particularly along the east coast of Sabah.

“The capability of this radar will provide extremely important information to us. With radar capabilities, it will provide information on security and threats in the maritime area.

“The key point is that the radar on Pulau Malawali must be expedited in its construction. In that way, we can enhance our capability to control our security areas, particularly on the east coast of Sabah. This is a priority. If completed on schedule, there will be no more blind spots in the area and this is a top priority,” he said.

It was previously reported that, based on current needs, the government has allocated RM88 million to build the RSS, approved under the first rolling plan of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).

In another development, Saifuddin Nasution said the ministry has also obtained approval for the construction of six additional General Operations Force (PGA) posts in the same area and is now awaiting implementation by the relevant agencies.

“The budget has been approved. What remains is implementation by the agencies. The General Operations Force (PGA) certainly hopes for posts that are more decent, better equipped and at strategically located positions,” he said.

Meanwhile, he stressed that security-related projects cannot be treated like ordinary development projects assessed solely based on key performance indicators (KPIs).

“If it is a project where the security weightage is greater, it cannot be implemented using standard KPIs. It must be given greater emphasis on security.

“…because it is not a typical development project and must be viewed from a slightly different perspective. Delaying projects with security implications will compromise our border security control,” he said. — Bernama 

KUALA LUMPUR, May 4 — Royal institutions and ulama should not be subjected to insults or abuse as they serve as symbols of unity and must be respected, Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said today.

Amirudin said institutions such as the monarchy and the ulama should be respected beyond political differences.

“Even if there are differences in politics, we as fellow human beings should avoid insults, let alone humiliation. That is the basic principle. But sometimes people act outside the boundaries (of control).

“That is why I asked the police to take action. Such actions justify the government taking enforcement measures on issues involving religion, race and royalty (3R),” he told Utusan Malaysia after officiating the Selangor-level 2026 Labour Day celebration in Shah Alam today.

Earlier, Selangor police said they had received 280 reports over a viral Facebook post last month deemed insulting to the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah.

Police reportedly arrested a man last night to assist investigations into the post.

Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk M. Kumar said the suspect, believed to be in his 30s, was detained at 7.10pm in Bukit Mertajam, Penang.

Amirudin urged stern action against the individual involved, as well as anyone committing similar acts.

“In the past, enforcement action was often criticised by the opposition, who claimed the government was trying to silence voices. But from what I see now, the impact has become extraordinary.

“This issue must be addressed,” he said, thanking police for acting swiftly and urging firm action against those involved.

ISKANDAR PUTERI, May 4 — Johor continues to post encouraging economic performance after the state’s revenue reached RM1 billion as of April 30, Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said today.

He said the figure marks an increase of RM307 million compared to the same period last year, placing Johor on solid footing to achieve its revenue projection for this year.

“Johor’s success is driven by several major achievements, including recording the highest investment figure in the state’s history.

“This reflects investor confidence in Johor and has also opened up tens of thousands of job opportunities for the people.

“In addition, Johor’s strong economic growth with a high Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rate has strengthened the state’s fiscal base, thus increasing the government’s ability to generate sustainable revenue,” he told the Johor state legislative assembly at Bangunan Sultan Ismail in Kota Iskandar here today.

Onn Hafiz, who is also chairman of the Johor Natural Resources, Administration, Finance, Planning, Economic Development and Tourism Committee, said the achievement proves Johor is on the right track to sustain inclusive and long-term growth.

“Based on this strength, the state government is committed to ensuring that every increase in revenue is returned to the people through high-impact initiatives,” he said, adding that this approach has been implemented through phases one to four of the Bantuan Kasih Johor (BKJ) welfare programme, which includes more than 100 initiatives with an allocation of almost RM400 million.

Onn Hafiz said the state government would continue strengthening efforts to help the people, ease the cost of living and ensure the state’s prosperity is shared by all.

NEW YORK, May 4 — Boeing is scheduled to return to court today to face its latest lawsuit over a deadly 737 MAX crash in Ethiopia, brought by the family of a young American NGO worker.

Barring a last-minute settlement, the case will go before a federal court in Chicago, with jury selection expected today and tomorrow and opening statements Wednesday.

Samya Stumo was killed in the March 2019 Ethiopian Airlines crash, when she was en route to Kenya for her first assignment with ThinkWell, a public health NGO that aimed to increase access to health care in Africa and Asia.

But the plane went down shortly after taking off from Addis Ababa, killing everyone aboard. The Ethiopian crash followed a Lion Air crash about four and a half months earlier in Indonesia.

The two crashes claimed 346 lives in total.

Boeing acknowledged that anti-stall software was implicated in both accidents.

The plane maker initially faced 155 civil cases alleging wrongful death and negligence, among other claims, but it has settled the vast majority of claims.

The few cases that have gone to trial, including Stumo’s, are not intended to determine criminal liability but rather to determine the financial compensation due to the victims’ relatives.

The disasters led to congressional hearings, with irate lawmakers demanding answers, and to leadership shake-ups at the aviation company.

The 737 MAX crashes marked the start of a long downturn at Boeing that resulted in annual losses each year between 2018 and 2024. However, the company has shown signs of improvement under CEO Kelly Ortberg, who has said more work must be done to win back credibility.

In November, a Chicago jury awarded US$28.45 million (RM112.62 million) to the widower of Shikha Garg of New Delhi, who died in the Ethiopian crash.

A second trial that got underway in January ended with an out-of-court settlement that was not made public.

Stumo’s parents have emerged as vocal critics of Boeing and have advocated for tougher government aviation safety oversight.

Her mother, Nadia Milleron, a niece of consumer advocate and former presidential candidate Ralph Nader, is running for Congress as an independent.

Stumo’s father, Michael Stumo, works on economic policy for the Office of Management and Budget after previously leading the Coalition for a Prosperous America, an advocacy group representing US manufacturers and producers. — AFP

KUALA LUMPUR, May 4 — A 26-year-old woman was killed after the Proton Persona she was travelling in with her fiancé crashed into the rear of a parked school bus along the Middle Ring Road 2 (MRR2) highway near Taman Layang-Layang early this morning.

Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department chief Mohd Zamzuri Mohd Isa said the crash occurred at about 2.30am on the stretch heading from Batu Caves towards Kepong.

He said preliminary investigations found the 31-year-old driver had been travelling in the left lane before allegedly losing control of the vehicle and veering onto the road shoulder.

“The car then struck the rear of a Hino international school bus that had been parked by the roadside without any warning signs,” he said in a statement.

The woman suffered severe chest injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene, while the driver sustained head injuries and is receiving treatment at Selayang Hospital.

Police believe the driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel, although investigations are ongoing.