The Star Malaysia

Safety matters on the trail

Hiking may be one of the most rewarding ways to stay active, but experienced trekkers say safety should never be overlooked. From carrying the right gear to knowing one’s physical limits, proper preparation can make all the difference in the outdoors,...

Market forces at work

While food price movements remain under control in Malaysia, statistics show a drop in the price of staples like local white rice but an increase in common ingredients such as coconut. Cutting import dependence is vital to tackling food inflation, say...

Old-age savings come first

While the newly introduced i-legasi allows EPF members aged 55 and above to transfer a portion of their savings to the accounts of immediate family, experts say contributors must first ensure they have enough for their own financial security.

Don’t make smoking cool

Women in full force

KUALA LUMPUR: Their mothers once rocked the cradle, now these daughters are crafting heartfelt gifts by hand in tribute to Mothers Day. Property manager Vanitha Vadivelu said she decided to paint a batik portrait for her mother, Kannagy Palanisamy,...

Asean seeks to cushion effects of energy crisis

Amid pressure on their economies, Asean leaders are calling for a coordinated response to the impacts of the Middle East conflict. On Malaysia’s part, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has proposed that the relevant ministers urgently explore the...

Shift from aid to ability

The Social Policy Action Plan 2026-2030 aims to move welfare beyond handouts by helping recipients become self-reliant and economically independent. Support groups say the focus must also be on widening opportunities so vulnerable communities are not...

A killing heat

After two heatstroke deaths this year, organisers of sporting events are making sure that there are adequate water stations and medical support for participants. The unusually hot spell is also taking a toll on water levels at Kedah dams, while rivers...

Tighter rules on pest control

Fumigators and pest control companies will come under greater scrutiny under a new law to ensure higher safety standards in line with current technology. This is to replace the existing licensing law which has become outdated in checking on the use of...

Tracking the culprit

PETALING JAYA: A registry of domestic violence offenders must be set up to better protect victims, particularly women, says Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. The Women, Family and Community Development Minister emphasised the growing necessity of establishing...

Labour reform push

KUALA LUMPUR: New maternity support, widening social protection to workers abroad and a push for higher wages are among a slate of labour reforms aimed at strengthening workforce safety nets announced by the Prime Minister. Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim...

E-bike adoption stuck in the slow lane

While other electric vehicles gain traction, electric two-wheelers are sputtering. Experts are asking the government to boost the bikes with rebates, tax incentives and better charging infrastructure, as even a round trip from Johor to Singapore is...

Workshops that wheel and deal

It’s an old trick; you hear a knock in your car, send it to a workshop, and get hit with a huge bill for unnecessary repairs. Now, the industry is going digital, with apps that let you choose fixes and see prices upfront.

Abrupt exit

Boxes of files and documents areseenatthe office of a Barisan Nasional executive councillor. The exco members are vacating the premises following their decision to withdraw support for Aminuddin.

Catalytic converters new target of thieves

The car exhaust system’s component is coveted for prized rare metals. Authorities say being careful about parking locations and installing specialised shields can help reduce risk. >

Another attempt on Trump’s life

US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were rushed to safety after a gunman stormed a glitzy press gala in Washington. The venue erupted into chaos as shots rang out and guests dived for cover, with the suspect later detained on site.

Code red on hoaxes

On average, the Fire and Rescue Department receives a prank call every other day, wasting time, manpower and fuel. What may appear like a harmless joke could land the caller behind bars, or in a worst-case scenario, divert precious resources from...

‘Begging’ for better laws

KUALA LUMPUR: For many residents in the city centre, the presence of beggars has long been a familiar sight. However, a newer, more unsettling trend is emerging: groups of women, accompanied by young children, who are increasingly targeting passers-by...

Assembly on hold

Five empty seats beside the Negri Sembilan royal couple took the lustre away from the opening of the state legislative assembly. However, Yang di-pertuan Besar of Negri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir said the proceedings remained legitimate...

A recipe for success

From left: SMG group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt, Arnott’s Group senior regional marketing lead Vanessa Lim, Datuk Chef officer Datin Paduka Esther Wan and SMG chief content Ng stirring a batch of ‘spaghetti’ to mark the rebranding of Kuali,...

Assembly under the spotlight

After their controversial move to depose the Ruler, the four Undang of Negri Sembilan now want to have the Mentri Besar removed. This could throw a spanner in the works at the state legislative assembly, which will be opened by the Yang di-pertuan...

Ageing well begins early

Findings from the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2025 revealed that many Malaysian senior citizens are not ageing healthily, prompting the Health Ministry to strengthen its policy response, including expediting the Senior Citizens Bill. They also...

9,000 homeless in Batu Sapi

Barefoot and clutching only vital documents, families in a Sandakan settlement fled a terrifying blaze that engulfed 1,000 homes in minutes. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has pledged swift federal and state aid to the victims of the massive...

Seeking stable oil supply

In the midst of uncertainty in the Strait of Hormuz, PETRONAS is cleared to pursue Russian oil supply as Malaysia moves to secure stable imports. Meanwhile, a PETRONAS oil tanker (inset) has safely reached Johor after transiting the strait.

Falling for a con job

Job scams targeting school-leavers entering the workforce – particularly those aged 17 to 22 – are on the rise, according to police. Research shows many youth lack the skills to identify warning signs in online job offers, and experts want stronger...

Securing the home front

Malaysia will put its fuel needs first before channelling any surplus to Australia, as both sides tighten cooperation on energy and food security amid global uncertainty. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Australian Prime Minister Anthony...

No cover in war zones

The Middle East crisis has shown that standard travel insurance offers little protection in conflict zones, with war-related losses, injuries and evacuations excluded. Stranded Malaysians said it taught them to invest in comprehensive coverage and...

River quality under threat

As Malaysia officially enters a high-risk weather phase, experts are warning that low river levels caused by a prolonged dry spell can increase the concentration of pollutants in the water. Preventative measures such as cloud seeding operations will...

A touchy issue at work

JAYA: Addressing sexual harassment requires shifting from a reactive compliance model to a proactive, culturedriven approach, says the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF). Its president, Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman, said there should be clear...

Pumping up oversight

Mandatory audits for fuel retailers within 50km of the borders are being considered as part of an escalated crackdown on smuggling activities. Masterminds of these syndicates will also face charges under the Anti-money Laundering Act.

Cool moves on hot days

Giving out hats and towels, and theme parks encouraging night visits, are just some of the ways Malaysians are keeping cool. With the expected arrival of El Nino next month – and more sweltering days ahead – climatologists warn that cloud seeding can...

Enough in reserve

▪ Maritime safety: Oneofthe seven Malaysian tankers has cleared the Strait of Hormuz ▪ Economic support: Rm5bil in loan financing to help SMES navigate the Mideast conflict ▪ Healthcare security: National medicine stockpile confirmed stable until June

Ceasefire crisis

People in New York protesting the Us-israeli conflict with Iran and against attacks on Lebanon. Israel launched fresh strikes on Lebanon, putting the Middle East ceasefire in jeopardy. The renewed instability is felt through mounting economic pressure,...

Farewell, Dr Ling: A legacy of service remembered

More tributes and accolades poured in as former MCA president Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik was taken on his final journey before cremation in Nilai. Party stalwarts and many who turned up to pay their final respects said Dr Ling’s immense contributions will...

Cloud seeding lifts dam levels in north

Cloud-seeding efforts in Kedah and Perlis have begun to show results, with rainfall recorded and water levels improving, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Ahmad Zahid, who is also chairman of the National Disaster Management...

When a car becomes a burning issue

A parked car can turn into a fireball for many unexpected reasons, and the hot spell with dry grass is only worsening things. The Fire and Rescue Department is warning drivers to take precautions and ensure personal safety if a fire happens.

Drowning in fees

Many services now require a subscription, and the costs involved can quickly add up.

A fruitful home harvest

PETALING JAYA: In the quiet corners of ordinary homes, a subtle revolution is taking root. It does not roar like industry or gleam like high-tech innovation, yet it is reshaping how people think about food, health and self-reliance. One pot, one plot...

Fast-tracking justice

With thousands of fatal accidents yearly, authorities and experts are pushing for a special court to speed up serious cases, aiming for swifter justice and stronger deterrence. There is an urgent need as families like that of delivery rider Amirul...

Biodiesel drive

Malaysia can leverage on its crude palm oil resources and expand the biodiesel blending programme to reduce dependence on fossil diesel. As the country seeks solutions in the midst of the Middle East conflict, experts say biofuels can play a useful...

Rethinking the rail plan

There is a proposal to move the Penang LRT’S secondary maintenance depot from Sungai Dua on the island to near Penang Sentral in Butterworth. This could free up land for development and offer an opportunity to create a publicly accessible seafront on...

Spotlight on EV prices

The government is reviewing its policy to strengthen local assembly activities and make electric vehicles (EVS) more affordable in the long run. While welcoming automotive investors, it wants to ensure meaningful, highvalue foreign participation, as...

Keeping cool in school

GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Education Department (JPN) is taking proactive steps to prepare schools throughout the state to face the current heatwave. State Education director Mohamad Dziauddin Mat Saad said this included holding engagement sessions with...

Levelling ‘farming’ the field

With Malaysia’s vegetable self-sufficiency ratio remaining relatively low, the government wants to shift the focus to local production and cut down on imports. This will address supply chain pressures linked to the Middle East conflict, with a meeting...

Litterbugs pay the price

Convicted litterbugs carrying out community service in front of Sultan Abdul Samad Building in Kuala Lumpur. Raids and tougher enforcement signal a stronger cleanliness push, with over 1,000 notices issued and offenders fined and ordered to do...

Ailing healthcare sector

Our medical graduates are rejecting housemanships in Malaysia and many are resigning. The ‘outdated’ contract system, now in its 10th year, and poor policies are forcing our future doctors out of the system, which could affect healthcare services as a...

Shifting gears

PETALING JAYA: The subsidised RON95 petrol initiative will be reduced to 200 litres starting April 1, as part of the government’s temporary measure to guarantee supply and to manage demand prudently due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle...

Targeting transit traffic

KLIA is aiming to challenge Gulf rivals by positioning itself as a major transit point for long-haul flights between Asia-pacific and Europe. Aviation experts say infrastructure upgrades are needed to make the airport a viable alternative for...

Clean energy push

With the Middle East conflict showing no signs of abating, experts are urging the government to accelerate its shift to renewable energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Meanwhile, the Deputy Prime Minister II says Malaysia remains committed to...

Heatwave not letting up

Government agencies are fortifying weather monitoring and forecasting to protect the nation against the escalating impacts of climate change. AI and big data analytics are being integrated into the Multi-hazard Early Warning System as the heatwave...

Duty comes first

Frontliners – from firemen, police and healthcare staff to public transport and utility workers – have no qualms about forgoing their holidays so that others can celebrate Hari Raya with their families. They say that the sacrifice is part of their job...

Classic theme:

(From left) Aqidah Basirah Abdullah, Nurul Aini Abdul Razak, Nurul Rosyidah Abdul Rashid, Mohd Danial Fikri Jamaluddin, Nur Alia Afirah Syamsurijal, Nurul Najwa Abdul Rashid, Mya Nur Qaisara Muhairy and Abdul Rifhan Abdul Rahim posing for an outdoor...

Festive exodus:

Traffic piling up at Gombak Toll Plaza as the balik kampung rush intensifies. Highway journeys are stretching hours longer while crowds at trains and bus terminals

Tradition fuels long journey

KUALA LUMPUR: Traffic from the Klang Valley to the east coast has started to build up, while authorities expect about 1.5 million vehicles to enter Penang during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri period. A spokesperson for the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM)...

Eyes on the seas

Buying good advice

Ratna Eliza Razali shopping at Mydin USJ with her baby boy. The 36-yearold finance sector employee has begun spending more moderately based on the Prime Minister’s suggestion.

Keeping tabs on traffic flow

Officers from PLUS Malaysia Bhd observing the traffic on giant monitors at the Traffic Monitoring Centre at Persada PLUS in Petaling Jaya. PLUS, which is managing several highways including the North-south Expressway, expects some 2.3 million vehicles...

Steady fuel supply for now

The Prime Minister has assured Malaysians that petroleum supply is stable until May despite the Middle East conflict, pledging to shield the rakyat from petrol price hikes. Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government is taking a prudent approach...

Looking at loopholes

With the deadline to ban kids under 16 from social media just months away, the question teens and tweens are asking is: how will it be enforced? Concerned over the reluctance of minors in giving up access to their platforms, experts say parents still...

In the spirit of the season

People in Klebang Putra, Ipoh, breaking their fast in an unusual way: by having a pot luck iftar on the street. Organised by the area’s Neighbourhood Watch team, this year’s community picnic brought 200 residents together. The team makes it a special...

More than just a fancy name

From ’planet healer’ to ‘chief imagination officer’, job titles and scope are evolving rapidly in Malaysia, mirroring economic transformation and global trends. But employers and HR professionals say that skills and long-term competitiveness must...

Haj plans to go ahead

Preparations for Malaysian pilgrims to perform the haj are proceeding as planned despite the geopolitical conflict in the Middle East. Meanwhile, prospective pilgrims anxiously wait for the tension to ease so that they can perform their religious...

Where’d the water go?

PETALING JAYA: These are dry days in the north of the peninsula, with hot weather and several dams hitting “warning” levels. The central region has been spared, with thunderstorms forecast across parts of Selangor and Kuala Lumpur – but it won’t be...

Closing the gender divide

As local women make meaningful progress toward narrowing gender inequality, rights groups want more commitment to female empowerment and reducing the wage gap between the sexes. Though Malaysia has climbed in global gender parity scores, the country is...

Getting a mass grave ready

DUBAI: US forces continued a round-the-clock assault on Iran and Israel mounted a “broad wave” of strikes targeting Iranian missile sites and air defence systems in a campaign that a top American commander said is ahead of the “game plan”. Despite...

Strikes widen

Plumes of smoke rising over Beirut’s southern suburbs following Israeli airstrikes, shortly after forced evacuation orders. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan says an evacuation plan for Malaysians is unnecessary for now, as the...

Bumper-to-bumper escape

Motorists clogging up the highway as they flee villages in southern Lebanon after Israel started bombarding the country. The conflict in the Middle East is expanding days after a massive Israel-us attack on Iran.

Wider conflict feared

With Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei confirmed killed in Teheran in the major attack launched by the United States and Israel, Iran responded with a flurry of missile and drone strikes across the Middle East, raising the risk of regional...

Conflict escalates in the Middle East

The United States and Israel carried out a joint attack on Iran as Teheran launched counterstrikes against American bases. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim urged the United States and Iran to pursue diplomacy and an immediate, unconditional...

Unmasking reality

KUALA LUMPUR: They are dressed up in costumes of cartoon characters like Super Mario, Luigi and Doraemon, as well as animals and dinosaurs. But these mascots, who are now a regular sight at public spaces, are not there to entertain. They are asking...