Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

China

manus

Monica

start up

execution

autonomous

game changer

China&rsquo;s latest artificial intelligence (AI) innovation, Manus, is making waves in the global AI landscape. Developed by start-up Monica, this AI agent has been described by Chinese state media as the world&rsquo;s first truly general AI agent. Unlike traditional AI models, such as ChatGPT or Google&rsquo;s Gemini, which rely on human input, Manus is designed to independently plan, think, and execute tasks without guidance.
With its March 6 launch, Manus has reignited discussions about the future of AI and what it means when AI stops waiting for instructions and starts making its own decisions. The introduction of Manus could mark a pivotal shift from generative AI to a more advanced, fully autonomous AI agent capable of executing real-world tasks with minimal human oversight.
Beyond Chatbots: The Fully Autonomous AI Agent 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bcc3d3debbe63619bc2140a09e538c867d21cbc5d548fc08339d72327212fa7a" />
Unlike AI assistants that generate text-based responses, Manus delivers tangible results. Whether it is planning a trip, analysing stock trends, or screening job candidates, Manus can handle complex workflows without direct human involvement. The system employs a multi-agent architecture, functioning like an executive overseeing a team of specialised sub-agents. These sub-agents collaborate to break down and execute complex tasks efficiently.
For example, if a user asks, &ldquo;Find me an apartment in San Francisco,&rdquo; Manus does not merely present a list of available properties. It analyses crime rates, weather patterns, rental trends, and even unstated preferences before delivering a carefully curated selection of the most suitable homes. Similarly, when managing an investment portfolio, Manus can autonomously evaluate market conditions, execute trades, and adjust strategies in real-time, potentially outperforming human analysts.
This level of independence has led some industry observers to compare Manus&rsquo;s launch to DeepSeek&rsquo;s rise in early 2024. DeepSeek V3 stunned the AI community by challenging OpenAI&rsquo;s models, but Manus takes this competition to another level&mdash;moving beyond generative AI into the realm of decision-making and execution.
The Technology Behind Manus
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e95c41e8fb6f5d0e4e41eaec8fc23741cf23e76a623703058572718802d8eb5d" />
Manus is not just another AI model; it is an assemblage of multiple models, built on Anthropic&rsquo;s Claude 3.5 Sonnet and refined versions of Alibaba&rsquo;s Qwen models. The system integrates with 29 tools and open-source software, allowing it to browse the web, interact with APIs, execute scripts, and develop software autonomously.
What truly sets Manus apart is its ability to function asynchronously in a cloud-based environment. Unlike AI agents that require users to keep their browsers open, Manus continues working in the background, notifying users only when tasks are completed. This makes it highly efficient, resembling an invisible assistant capable of executing tasks with precision and speed.
Moreover, Manus&rsquo;s decision-making framework employs advanced reinforcement learning techniques, allowing it to refine its strategies over time. This means the more users engage with Manus, the smarter and more efficient it becomes at handling complex tasks, from legal document analysis to autonomous code debugging.
A Challenge to Silicon Valley&rsquo;s AI Dominance?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c0a1a74a1169265f28bec38d6a6ac387c41786d71a8a368d8521f421e38416e4" /> Left: China&rsquo;s Silicon Valley
Manus&rsquo;s capabilities are raising eyebrows in Silicon Valley, where tech giants have long assumed that incremental improvements to large language models would secure their dominance. However, China&rsquo;s AI ambitions have rapidly evolved, and Manus signals that the country is not only catching up but potentially surpassing Western AI development in certain areas.
The emergence of Manus as a fully autonomous AI agent has significant implications. It introduces a paradigm shift&mdash;from AI as an assistant to AI as an independent decision-maker. If successful, it could disrupt industries by automating roles traditionally requiring human judgment and expertise. Some experts have even suggested that Manus may mark the &ldquo;industrialisation of intelligence,&rdquo; forcing companies to adopt AI-driven automation to remain competitive.
Furthermore, with China&rsquo;s government backing AI research at an unprecedented scale, Manus may just be the beginning of a wave of disruptive AI technologies. If Silicon Valley fails to innovate at a comparable pace, the balance of power in the AI race could shift dramatically.
Ethical and Regulatory Concerns
Despite its promise, Manus raises serious ethical and regulatory questions. If an AI agent autonomously makes a poor financial decision or an incorrect hiring choice, who bears responsibility? Traditional AI regulations assume that human oversight is a necessity, but Manus challenges this assumption.
Chinese regulators, historically more willing to experiment with AI deployment, have not yet established clear guidelines for fully autonomous AI agents. Meanwhile, Western regulators may struggle to adapt, as their frameworks are based on the expectation that AI remains under human control.
Another major concern is job displacement. Unlike previous AI models that enhanced workplace efficiency, Manus has the potential to replace human roles entirely. From software development to recruitment, Manus can independently complete tasks that once required specialised professionals. The widespread adoption of AI agents like Manus could force policymakers to reconsider economic structures, including the need for universal basic income and new employment models.
Additionally, the cybersecurity implications of autonomous AI agents cannot be overlooked. An AI agent that operates independently across networks and databases presents a significant security risk if exploited by malicious actors. Without stringent security measures, Manus or similar AI agents could be manipulated to perform harmful actions at an unprecedented scale.
Exclusive Access and High Demand
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f3ca06de7db434155427ba9eb93c88377af10393d1ad467f8b6d86c689924958" />
Currently, access to Manus is limited to users with an invitation code. The high demand for these codes has created a resale market, with prices ranging from 999 yuan (~RM606) to an astonishing 50,000 yuan (~RM30,500) on second-hand platforms.
The Manus development team has acknowledged the overwhelming interest and stated that limited server capacity is the primary reason for the restricted access. Monica&rsquo;s partner, Zhang Tao, reassured users that the company is working to expand access as soon as possible.
However, the exclusivity of Manus raises questions about AI accessibility. If only a select few can access such a powerful AI tool, does this widen the gap between technological elites and the rest of society? The monopolisation of advanced AI could have far-reaching consequences, from economic disparity to geopolitical tensions.
Watch the full video below:
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K27diMbCsuw?si=AJ79K1yXRIWL0ill" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
The Future of AI: A World Run by Autonomous Agents?
The introduction of Manus signals the beginning of a new era in artificial intelligence&mdash;one where AI agents act independently, making decisions and executing complex tasks without human intervention. While the prospect is thrilling, it also comes with significant challenges, including regulatory concerns and the potential for widespread job disruption.
As AI technology continues to evolve, the rest of the world must decide how to adapt. Whether Manus becomes a stepping stone toward artificial general intelligence (AGI) or simply the first of many self-directed AI systems remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain: China&rsquo;s AI ambitions are reshaping the future, and the global tech community must prepare for a rapidly changing landscape.
The road ahead is uncertain, but one thing is clear&mdash;AI is no longer just a tool; it is becoming a force capable of shaping economies, societies, and the very fabric of human decision-making itself.
&nbsp;What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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An AI agent that doesn’t just respond—it executes. Manus can analyse CVs, research properties, and track stocks autonomously.

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Manus: China’s AI Breakthrough That Could Redefine The Industry

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Scentify

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Oatside

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Rohto

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PETROLIAM Nasional Bhd (PETRONAS) will lay off around 10% of its workforce&mdash;impacting more than 5,000 employees&mdash;as part of a major restructuring exercise aimed at navigating prolonged profit declines, shrinking margins, and volatile crude oil markets.
The move, which was first initiated in February 2025, forms part of the state-owned energy giant&rsquo;s broader cost-cutting strategy to &ldquo;rightsize&rdquo; operations and build resilience amid an increasingly challenging environment for fossil fuel producers.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b869fcc4de0af9420ddbcdedeadde270d6d64f32782346f860c22a0709265a37" />
Announcing the decision at a media briefing on Thursday, 5 June, PETRONAS President and Group Chief Executive Officer Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik Tengku Aziz confirmed that the workforce reduction will affect staff across all levels, including management. Those impacted will be notified in stages by the end of the year and throughout 2026.
Hiring and Promotions Frozen Until End-2026
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4cd371102ebb1d3063a84893fac666bc57cb0664b999cdf7264db446a64bb08d" />
In addition to the layoffs, PETRONAS will implement a complete freeze on new hires and staff promotions until December 2026. Tengku Muhammad Taufik said this was essential to ensure the company maintains leaner and more agile operations regardless of oil price fluctuations.
"PETRONAS 2.0 will be run and organised differently, with revised work processes,&rdquo; he said, referring to the group&rsquo;s internal transformation initiative. &ldquo;We need to correct the way we work to remain commercially competitive, not just locally but globally.&rdquo;
The restructuring reflects the growing urgency for the company to adapt to tighter margins and smaller resource fields. Tengku Taufik noted that in the past, PETRONAS could enjoy profit-before-tax margins of up to 40% when oil extraction was more straightforward. Today, those margins have declined to between 25% and 38%, with further reductions expected.
Profits Down 32% in 2024 Following Decline in 2023
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b9ad673df07879a61829df143aaaf6326149da01b932d5e723e07122fff1f31f" />
PETRONAS reported a net profit of RM55.1 billion for the financial year ended 31 December 2024&mdash;a 31.7% decrease from RM80.7 billion the previous year. This decline follows a 21% drop in 2023, driven by lower average realised oil and gas prices and the absence of favourable tax adjustments that had supported earlier figures.
The financial strain is further exacerbated by falling global oil prices. The company&rsquo;s internal budget was based on Brent crude prices ranging between USD 75 and USD 80 per barrel, but the benchmark has hovered closer to USD 65 this year&mdash;marking a 13% decline. The drop is attributed to rising OPEC+ output and worsening global trade tensions, both of which have placed downward pressure on demand.
Difficulties Meeting Dividend Targets and Revenue Pressures
Tengku Taufik acknowledged that PETRONAS is under increasing pressure to meet its dividend obligations to the government. In 2024, the company accounted for approximately 10% of Malaysia&rsquo;s national revenue through dividends and taxes. With narrowing margins and declining output from mature fields, he warned that sustaining these contributions under current market conditions will be &ldquo;challenging.&rdquo;
&ldquo;The margins are shrinking, the fields are getting smaller. It will be difficult to meet dividend targets unless the price environment improves,&rdquo; he stated.
No Exit from Canada Despite Speculation
&nbsp;<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/1a4e51ae5d8f5214fdb8b3b2a1d873dee838b307806b43a862f5de166b268d69" />
Amid speculation about PETRONAS' international portfolio, Tengku Taufik clarified that the company has no plans to exit its Canadian operations, where it owns what was formerly Progress Energy Resources Corp.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re not exiting Canada. It&rsquo;s a resource-rich geography that remains strategically important for our ambitions in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) sector,&rdquo; he said. While PETRONAS continues to entertain commercial proposals, he emphasised that this is part of the company&rsquo;s regular business review and not indicative of any planned withdrawal.
Ongoing Discussions with Sarawak over State Gas Role
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/26b68530d23871fe6051ca93909733f4be5fee7e9a872e9d0a36556bea81e95f" />
Separately, Tengku Taufik also addressed the evolving relationship between PETRONAS and Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros), amid recent shifts in the state&rsquo;s gas aggregation policies.
On 21 May 2025, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg signed a joint declaration affirming that PETRONAS will continue to carry out its functions under the Petroleum Development Act 1974 (PDA 1974) and related regulations. This declaration also recognised the Sarawak government&rsquo;s appointment of Petros as the state&rsquo;s official gas aggregator, effective 1 March 2025.
Tengku Taufik noted that PETRONAS remains open to continued negotiations to strengthen cooperation with Sarawak and to ensure energy needs are met across the region.
Restructuring for Long-Term Resilience
While the coming months will bring uncertainty and job losses for many within PETRONAS, the restructuring aims to better position Malaysia&rsquo;s national oil company for the future. Tengku Taufik emphasised that PETRONAS must become more efficient and commercially disciplined if it is to compete in a shifting global energy landscape marked by transition and volatility.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Over 5,000 jobs to be cut; hiring frozen until December 2026.

f73f082c0332449ca530130c8b2d3a06404bb784c965fc60a51c5d77adc6d8c7

PETRONAS To Slash 10% Of Workforce Amid Restructuring And Profit Slump

Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has suffered a legal setback after the High Court in Kuala Lumpur dismissed his bid to seek constitutional immunity from a civil lawsuit filed by his former research assistant. The lawsuit, which accuses Anwar of sexual assault in 2018, is now set to proceed to trial on 16 June.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a3fd3a51194f59a6788a951b95ac0c2e61f914bec1359d2b9074f28d94f12a73" />
High Court Judge Roz Mawar Rozain ruled on 4 June that Anwar&rsquo;s application to refer eight constitutional questions to the Federal Court lacked merit. She said the questions failed to meet the required legal threshold under Section 84 of the Courts of Judicature Act 1964, stating they did not involve "genuine constitutional controversy" and were neither necessary nor relevant to the current proceedings.
&ldquo;There is no express constitutional or statutory immunity accorded to a sitting prime minister for private acts committed before assuming office,&rdquo; she said. She also emphasised that constitutional guarantees of equal protection under the law mean equal treatment, not exemption.
The court ordered Anwar to pay RM20,000 in costs to the plaintiff, Muhammad Yusoff Rawther. Anwar&rsquo;s legal team has since indicated plans to appeal the decision and request a stay of the upcoming trial.
The Lawsuit and Allegations
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/85cb2328f2070ecedb2b7d80d261c41df3c6353698fe33b7f375f8e25d4ffa7f" />
The civil suit was filed in July 2021 by Yusoff, now 32, who alleges that Anwar sexually assaulted him at the latter&rsquo;s residence in Segambut on 2 October 2018&mdash;several years before Anwar took office as Prime Minister in November 2022. Yusoff claims to have suffered lasting physical, psychological, and social trauma due to the incident and is seeking unspecified damages and relief.
Anwar, 77, has strongly denied the allegations, dismissing them as politically motivated attempts to discredit his leadership. He has also filed a countersuit against Yusoff. The plaintiff had previously lodged a statutory declaration and a police report in 2019, although the Attorney General&rsquo;s Chambers announced in January 2020 that it would not pursue criminal charges due to insufficient evidence.
In a statement following the High Court's ruling, Anwar maintained that his application was &ldquo;never about seeking personal immunity or escaping legal scrutiny,&rdquo; but rather about upholding the constitutional integrity of the Prime Minister&rsquo;s office. He argued that strategic litigation of this nature could disrupt governance and affect executive duties.
&ldquo;This matter concerns the integrity of our constitutional system and the need to ensure that high public office is protected from litigation that may be strategically timed, politically motivated, or institutionally disruptive,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I remain committed to the rule of law and will continue to discharge my responsibilities without distraction or compromise.&rdquo;
Legal Arguments and Constitutional Debate
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/97bfcfbdc5914fe396ee6ceb5bca3c2442dbab89e18c2a276433191925f124d9" />
Anwar&rsquo;s legal team had sought to refer eight legal questions to the Federal Court under Article 128(2) of the Federal Constitution. These included whether a sitting prime minister is entitled to immunity from civil litigation, whether such a lawsuit interferes with the discharge of executive functions, and whether ongoing proceedings infringe the constitutional right to equal treatment under the law.
His lawyers cited several constitutional articles&mdash;Articles 5, 8, 39, 40, and 43&mdash;arguing that the nature of executive responsibilities warranted some form of immunity from private legal action. They contended that the lawsuit could impair Anwar&rsquo;s ability to serve effectively and urged that the questions raised novel legal issues deserving Federal Court scrutiny.
However, Judge Roz Mawar found the arguments speculative and irrelevant to the immediate dispute between the two parties. Yusoff&rsquo;s legal team, led by Muhammad Rafique Rashid Ali, countered that this was a private law matter and not a constitutional crisis.
Speaking after the verdict, Rafique praised the court&rsquo;s ruling: &ldquo;This is an important milestone for Malaysia. It reinforces the fundamental principle that all individuals, regardless of status or position, are equal before the law.&rdquo;
A Political Legacy Marked by Legal Battles
This is far from the first time Anwar Ibrahim has faced serious legal allegations. His political career has long been overshadowed by accusations of sexual misconduct&mdash;charges he has consistently denied and labelled as orchestrated attempts to derail his reformist agenda.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3lWvBJwDQXs" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
In 1998, during his tenure as Deputy Prime Minister, Anwar was sacked by then-Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and later convicted of corruption and sodomy. He was sentenced to nine years in prison in a trial that drew international scrutiny and widespread condemnation. The Federal Court eventually overturned the sodomy conviction in 2004, resulting in his release.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8fc6527eb4d72813e4fc229f98d44b76d1e8368952e190a21824fa0865264632" />
In 2008, new sodomy charges surfaced, this time brought by a former aide, Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan. Although initially acquitted in 2012, an appeals court reversed the decision in 2014, and Anwar was sentenced to five years in prison. He was released in 2018 after receiving a full royal pardon, paving the way for his political comeback.
Anwar and his allies have long asserted that all charges were politically motivated, aimed at neutralising him as a threat to the ruling establishment. He has publicly forgiven his accusers but often speaks of the deep personal and political scars caused by the trials.
Impact on Anwar&rsquo;s Leadership and Reform Agenda
The latest legal development could have significant political repercussions for Anwar, particularly as his unity government continues to navigate a fragile coalition and a public impatient for tangible reforms.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fd600ce7f50a6a7ec9b8a04c8fc34a2958426145f3a29dc5408f183f41f9545f" />
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4341/rafizi-ramli-resigns-as-economy-minister-following-pkr-defeat-nik-nazmi-follows-suit">Rafizi Ramli Resigns As Economy Minister Following PKR Defeat; Nik Nazmi Follows Suit</a>
Already, the Prime Minister is under pressure following the recent resignations of two key cabinet members, which came on the heels of internal party elections in which his daughter, Nurul Izzah Anwar, secured the deputy presidency of PKR. Her elevation has raised eyebrows and stoked allegations of nepotism, particularly troubling for a leader whose platform was built on a promise of Reformasi, or democratic reform.
Commentators have noted that Anwar&rsquo;s ongoing legal troubles risk eroding his credibility, especially among the conservative Malay-Muslim electorate. &ldquo;This latest case could be highly damaging politically for Anwar among the Malay-Muslim community,&rdquo; said James Chin, a political analyst at the University of Tasmania.
Meanwhile, former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad&mdash;Anwar&rsquo;s long-time rival and one-time mentor&mdash;seized on the court&rsquo;s decision to renew his criticisms. &ldquo;No one should be above the law. Not even the Prime Minister,&rdquo; he said in a statement. Mahathir&rsquo;s re-emergence has added another layer of political intrigue ahead of the trial.
Yusoff&rsquo;s Own Legal Troubles
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9bd3b74970346b970e43b0752f410ea32a04fb5f536ca31a0aaf5ac2151c5d35" />
The complainant, Yusoff Rawther, is also currently facing serious legal charges unrelated to this civil suit. He has been in police custody since September 2024, and is on trial for alleged drug trafficking and possession of imitation firearms. If convicted, he faces life imprisonment and caning. He has pleaded not guilty and claims he was framed by those in power.
Despite his legal challenges, the court has decided that Yusoff&rsquo;s credibility and circumstances are issues to be evaluated during trial&mdash;not grounds to delay or dismiss the proceedings.
Looking Ahead: A Defining Moment in Malaysian Politics
The civil trial, set to begin on 16 June, is poised to become a highly scrutinised legal and political event in Malaysia&rsquo;s recent history. It will not only test Anwar&rsquo;s personal integrity but also the robustness of the country&rsquo;s judicial independence and constitutional checks on executive power.
Whether the proceedings will derail Anwar&rsquo;s leadership or simply serve as another chapter in his long, turbulent political journey remains to be seen. For now, the Prime Minister faces one of the most critical tests of his tenure, with the eyes of the nation&mdash;and much of the international community&mdash;closely watching.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Courts rule no special privilege for Prime Ministers. 

60702a13878b6f35cab3bcf398aa67ebe3f8b38c308bd67c640feb5de266a60d

Anwar Ibrahim’s Immunity Bid Rejected: High-Stakes Civil Trial To Proceed

Driving in an unfamiliar country is rarely a stress-free experience &ndash; and according to a new global survey, Malaysia has emerged as one of the scariest places in the world to get behind the wheel, particularly for tourists.
The study, conducted by a <a href="https://www.scrapcarcomparison.co.uk/blog/nerve-racking-nations/">UK-based car rental platform</a>, polled over 2,000 motorists worldwide, asking how nervous they&rsquo;d feel driving in different countries. Participants rated their anxiety on a scale from 1 (not nervous at all) to 10 (extremely nervous).
Malaysia scored a concerning 6.70 out of 10, placing it 10th globally and second in Southeast Asia, behind only Thailand (which ranked 5th overall with a score of 6.86). India took the top global spot with a scare score of 7.15.
Malaysia: Tricky Roads, Tough Habits
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d2a5ec910cd43e357ba60b9c94554d5156e4bba3fe49fafcfb6e56fd1874dd6f" />
While seasoned Malaysian drivers might scoff at the results&mdash;after all, dodging potholes while weaving through motorbike traffic is second nature&mdash;foreigners see it quite differently. The blend of high-speed overtaking, motorcyclists with a death wish, and the occasional free-for-all at junctions has left many tourists clutching the steering wheel in terror.
Let&rsquo;s not forget the local quirks. In states like Penang, for instance, even Malaysians will admit the driving etiquette (or lack thereof) deserves its own chapter in a survival manual. From triple-parking to creative roundabout interpretations, Penang&rsquo;s roads are practically an obstacle course&mdash;albeit with good food at every wrong turn.
Why Are Tourists So Anxious Behind the Wheel?
&nbsp;<img src="https://media2.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExbWw3NGtreTR0d2thMzc1YzB4czE1eHgydG55aHRzbjBhbDhsbmwwMCZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZfYnlfaWQmY3Q9Zw/qQJ1xyQXVuVfW/giphy.gif" />&nbsp;
According to the survey, several key concerns fuel the fear of driving abroad. These include:
<ul>
<li>Driving on the opposite side of the road (56.2%) &ndash; A major source of disorientation for tourists used to different systems.</li>
<li>Dangerous driving by other motorists (55.9%) &ndash; Speeding, aggressive lane-changing, and unclear signalling top the list.</li>
<li>Fear of breaking local traffic laws (52.7%) &ndash; Many worry about committing infractions without even realising it.</li>
<li>Unfamiliar road layouts (48.1%) &ndash; Confusing junctions and inconsistent signage don&rsquo;t help.</li>
<li>Not understanding road signs (43.1%) &ndash; Especially when they&rsquo;re in unfamiliar languages or symbols.</li>
</ul>
Other anxieties include fears of getting lost, being unable to communicate during a traffic stop or accident, and unexpected road hazards.
Other Countries in the Rankings
The top 10 countries deemed the scariest for driving include:
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/278cccba3499c233878d65e2833a750334a30528bc44dff2d2eba532931b8c7a" />
Singapore ranked 17th on the list, suggesting that its strict enforcement and orderly roads inspire more confidence, although its sky-high fines might still keep tourists on edge.
Driving in Malaysia: An Adventure, Not a Holiday?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/845245594d3ee65aad7a2eddcfd19dcfa99e27a1279b516b1a8e8f78fb8d8146" />
While Malaysia boasts a well-connected road network and stunning scenic drives&mdash;from the hills of Cameron Highlands to the coastal stretches of Terengganu&mdash;the on-road experience can be a little overwhelming for the uninitiated. Combine right-hand traffic with the creative parking habits, fast-paced expressways, and the occasional cow crossing in rural areas, and it&rsquo;s no wonder tourists are reaching for public transport or ride-hailing apps.
That said, the fear factor isn&rsquo;t all doom and gloom. Understanding the common concerns can help tourism operators, car rental companies, and local authorities better support international drivers through clearer signage, better road education, and perhaps even multilingual driving guides.
Conclusion: A Little Patience Goes a Long Way
For Malaysians, this survey might come as no surprise, especially for those who&rsquo;ve braved Penang&rsquo;s streets on a long weekend or tried merging lanes in downtown KL during rush hour. But for visitors, it&rsquo;s a helpful reminder that road conditions and driving norms vary wildly across the globe.
So, if you're a tourist feeling nervous about renting a car in Malaysia, don&rsquo;t worry. Just be prepared, stay alert, maybe skip the self-drive tour of George Town, and remember: in Malaysia, horns are a language of their own.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Driving isn’t that scary in Malaysia… until it rains and the floods start.

9158034842465e742bf716021b73e6c0cf58914fe94ef3c5ef4f70cae86e53b1

Malaysia Ranked 2nd Scariest Country In SEA To Drive In – Especially For Tourists

Malaysian police have confirmed that the decomposed body found at a construction site in Bangsar is that of Jordan Michael John Johnson-Doyle, a 25-year-old British software engineer who had been reported missing since 2 June.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4346/british-family-turns-to-social-media-after-son-goes-missing-in-kuala-lumpur-following-night-out-at-irish-bar">British Family Turns To Social Media After Son Goes Missing In Kuala Lumpur Following Night Out At Irish Bar</a>
The discovery was made during a search operation on 4 June, at a partially completed condominium along Lorong Maarof. The search was initiated after Johnson-Doyle&rsquo;s movements were traced to the area. Over 30 officers took part in combing the site, and at approximately 5pm, a body was found face-down in a partially submerged lift shaft at one of the still-under-construction blocks.
Tattoo Identification and Autopsy Results
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ed977b832875703563f16018ce06cbf74c694b7d04050b8eae7d142d4b261169" />
Kuala Lumpur police chief Commissioner Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa confirmed that the body had been positively identified by Johnson-Doyle&rsquo;s uncle, based on a distinctive tattoo. A post-mortem conducted at University Malaya Medical Centre revealed that the cause of death was a chest injury sustained from a fall from height.
&ldquo;There were no signs of foul play or criminal elements at the scene,&rdquo; said Rusdi. &ldquo;The case has been classified as a sudden death.&rdquo;
The body, which was discovered with most of its clothing removed, was recovered at around 9.30pm on the day of the search and taken for forensic examination.
Last Known Movements Before Disappearance
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/50f12414bc279a3011361942bbe8db690764d0adea88f56a65dacd29d23be876" />
Johnson-Doyle had been on a solo backpacking trip across Southeast Asia while working remotely for a United States-based tech company. He had arrived in Malaysia from Vietnam on 17 May and was believed to be staying at Robertson Residences in Bukit Bintang during his time in Kuala Lumpur.
His last known contact was on the night of 27 May, when he was seen attending a quiz night at Healy Mac&rsquo;s Irish Bar in Bangsar. He had sent a photograph from the bar to a friend, but after that, his phone went silent and his social media activity abruptly stopped. Concerned family members, unable to reach him, reported his disappearance to the authorities.
Staff at the bar confirmed his attendance that evening, but were unable to provide further details about his departure or movements afterward.
Public Urged Not to Speculate
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ad67327d921adfe715dd3fa01f06264365d3eb587cf1177a706e19ec88ae31fd" />
Commissioner Rusdi advised the public to refrain from speculation regarding the circumstances of Johnson-Doyle&rsquo;s death and urged anyone with additional information to come forward to assist the investigation.
Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to the fatal fall. While the possibility of an accidental fall into the elevator shaft remains the leading theory, officers have stated that all avenues will be examined thoroughly.
The case has drawn significant media attention both locally and in the United Kingdom, where outlets such as the Daily Mail reported on the young man&rsquo;s disappearance and the eventual discovery of his body.
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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A tragic end to the search for the 25-year-old backpacker.

43e7d6e100bf4399aeb4f9446243c617b3cb0b1fd627a09a5b1393b90f9e86cc

Body Found At Bangsar Construction Site Confirmed To Be Missing British Man

Singapore will be acquiring two plots of land currently owned by the Malaysian government as part of its ambitious redevelopment plan for the Woodlands Checkpoint &mdash; one of the busiest land border crossings in the world. The move, which aims to address persistent traffic congestion and improve cross-border travel efficiency, was formally gazetted on Wednesday, 4 June 2025.
In a joint statement, the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) and Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) confirmed that the acquisition, involving a total of 0.79 hectares of unused, vegetated land, forms a central part of the broader phased expansion. The parcels are located near the core of the proposed redevelopment zone and are slightly larger than a football field in total area.
Both Singapore and Malaysia have emphasised ongoing cooperation, with the authorities stating, &ldquo;We will continue our strong partnership with the Malaysian government to strengthen connectivity and people-to-people links.&rdquo;
A Cross-Border Congestion Crisis
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6d70661197b6d097be71d14f059c3fee564951bd5d1e619e4f37747eae67c552" />
Anyone familiar with travel between Johor Bahru and Singapore knows that traffic bottlenecks at the Woodlands Checkpoint are a longstanding issue, particularly during weekends, public holidays, and school vacation periods. The checkpoint has consistently operated over capacity for years, and the numbers continue to climb.
In 2024, the average daily number of travellers using the checkpoint surged by 22%, rising from 269,000 in 2023 to 327,000. A new record was set on 20 December 2024, when 376,000 people crossed the checkpoint in a single day &mdash; a testament to both the importance of the route and the severe congestion it experiences. Authorities project that by 2050, the checkpoint could see up to 400,000 daily users.
A Decade-Long Redevelopment Plan
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fba3000c93a576909727ace9f1895e2c6130ff8f665b09214fcad190ffe2de7f" />
To cope with this growth, Singapore has mapped out a comprehensive 10- to 15-year plan to redevelop the checkpoint in multiple phases. The goal is to provide a sustainable, long-term solution to the chronic traffic congestion while maintaining national security standards and enhancing automation.
The ICA revealed that Singapore had officially approached Malaysia about the land acquisition as early as May 2022, and followed up with a formal proposal in November 2023. The current acquisition is one of the first concrete steps towards realising the redevelopment blueprint.
Phase One: New Facilities and Better Traffic Flow
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/290e377f7ff9bc1732d015fb7f88d17c23af5cf0cb5286069c8acba4c61e5255" />
Construction under the first phase of the project is expected to begin in the third quarter of 2025. This stage will focus on extending the existing checkpoint into the Old Woodlands Town Centre area, integrating modern infrastructure designed to streamline the clearance process.
Key features of the first phase include:
<ul>
<li>Automated clearance facilities for arriving cars, motorcycles, and cargo vehicles;</li>
<li>An extension of the Bukit Timah Expressway (BKE) to provide direct access for outbound vehicles, thereby reducing pressure on nearby roads;</li>
<li>Holding areas for vehicles within the checkpoint compound to prevent spillover congestion on surrounding expressways;</li>
<li>Off-site security screening zones, easing the burden on the main checkpoint complex.</li>
</ul>
These innovations aim to improve the overall clearance experience for travellers while significantly boosting processing efficiency.
Future Phases: In-Car Clearance and More Automation
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/19e1825e22ebbb9696a8653058adbd87bd1b45ed4a633fe639ae316112bc2184" />
Subsequent phases of redevelopment will involve upgrading the current checkpoint infrastructure, adding further clearance lanes, and deploying high-tech systems, including automated in-car immigration clearance, to accelerate processing time for travellers without requiring them to disembark.
Singaporean authorities have stated that the ultimate goal is to reduce average peak-hour travel time from 60 minutes to just 15 minutes. This will be achieved by leveraging smart infrastructure and automation, combined with strategic traffic management enhancements.
The ICA added that it will continue to invest in technological advancements to balance secure border management with seamless cross-border travel and trade.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation
Despite the sensitivities involved in acquiring land owned by a neighbouring government, the process has been described as cooperative and mutually beneficial. Singapore has reassured that all negotiations and procedures are being conducted with full transparency and close coordination with the Malaysian government.
Both sides recognise the strategic value of the Woodlands crossing, not just for trade and tourism, but also for the deep interpersonal ties shared between Singaporeans and Malaysians. With more efficient infrastructure, the hope is to foster greater mobility, economic opportunity, and regional integration.
A Future-Ready Border Gateway
The redevelopment of the Woodlands Checkpoint marks a significant infrastructural commitment by Singapore to future-proof one of Southeast Asia&rsquo;s busiest land links. With daily crossings expected to rise further in the coming decades, the upgrades are seen as crucial to maintaining smooth and secure travel between the two nations.
As construction begins in late 2025, commuters can expect temporary disruptions, but the long-term outcome promises faster, safer, and more streamlined border crossings &mdash; a major upgrade for one of the region&rsquo;s most vital transit points.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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The land acquisition is part of a long-term strategy to ease chronic congestion at the border.

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