Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

Selangor

safety

tourism

sustainability

airbnb

operations

conservation

limitation

Selangor is preparing to tighten regulations on short-term rental accommodations, including Airbnb, with a new proposal that would limit such operations to just 180 days a year beginning January 2026.
The move, announced by Selangor State Executive Councillor for Local Government and Tourism Dato&rsquo; Ng Suee Lim, signals the state&rsquo;s intention to establish a more structured, fair and accountable system for the rapidly growing short-term rental industry.
Ng explained that under the proposed mechanism, operators will only be allowed to run their units for half the calendar year. Those wishing to continue operations beyond the 180-day limit will be required to apply for planning permits from their respective local councils.
The proposal follows years of complaints from hotel industry players who argued that short-term rental hosts enjoy an unfair advantage, as they are not bound by the same operational rules, taxes or safety standards as hotels.
Addressing &lsquo;Unhealthy Competition&rsquo; and Ensuring Safety
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/81ac5a94820801a5af1ca92edbbccf2c6d1d15938507c8f088730f6fce549b30" />
According to Ng, the move is not intended to penalise Airbnb hosts but rather to introduce fairness and proper oversight.
&ldquo;Hotels must comply with various regulations and pay multiple fees, but short-term rental platforms operate without any structured mechanism. This has created unhealthy competition in the market,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;If Airbnb operators want to operate all year round, then they must obtain planning permission from the authorities.&rdquo;
The state also sees the new rule as an important step towards guaranteeing safety for guests. Selangor aims to launch a whitelisting system, requiring operators to be registered with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC). This would allow the state to better monitor operators, enforce standards and ensure they pay the necessary duties.
Implementation Depends on Federal-Level Guidelines
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/459b09070e9a2d539500b73d0f6460f0a1161ddb0d302352f54b32b4d6388757" />
While Selangor has outlined its intended direction, the state government will only finalise its decision once the Federal Government releases the national Short-Term Residential Accommodation (STRA) guidelines, expected next month. These guidelines, prepared by the Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) and PLANMalaysia, will form the basis for standardising STRA regulations across the country.
Ng emphasised that the state will conduct a comprehensive study before making the ruling official, noting that any required amendments&mdash;whether policy shifts or legislative updates&mdash;would later be presented at the State Executive Council meeting or brought to the state assembly.
A New Sustainability Fee for All Accommodation Types
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/cf130bb2f662d4d224fbac96a7372c93c55be8160e74481899fc03c7c0766624" />
Alongside the operational limit for Airbnb, Selangor is also set to introduce a sustainability fee beginning 1 January 2026. This fee will apply to all forms of paid accommodation, including hotels, homestays and Airbnb units.
The fixed rates are as follows:
<ul>
<li>Five-star hotels &ndash; RM7</li>
<li>Four-star hotels &ndash; RM5</li>
<li>Three-star hotels &ndash; RM3</li>
<li>Homestays or Airbnb &ndash; RM2</li>
</ul>
Ng assured that the fee is deliberately set at an affordable level so it does not burden tourists. He noted that the practice is not new, as states such as Penang, Melaka, Pahang, Perak, Langkawi and Negeri Sembilan have already implemented similar tourism or heritage duties.
Revenue to Support Conservation and Tourism Development
Funds collected through the sustainability fee will be placed in a dedicated state-managed account, overseen by the State Secretary&rsquo;s office. The revenue will be reinvested into Selangor&rsquo;s tourism sector, focusing on:
<ul>
<li>Conservation of heritage sites</li>
<li>Maintenance and repair works</li>
<li>Tourism infrastructure upgrades</li>
<li>Development of future tourism programmes</li>
</ul>
Ng highlighted that tourism remains one of Selangor&rsquo;s fastest-growing economic contributors. The state is projecting up to RM15 billion in tourism revenue, driven by increases in overnight stays and visitor spending.
&lsquo;Surprising Selangor&rsquo; and Visit Selangor Year 2025
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/928dbf46881bdae80c8c64fb22b02033736842db157c2b0d3678f7846041481e" />
In tandem with these regulatory changes, Ng announced the continuation of the &ldquo;Surprising Selangor&rdquo; campaign&mdash;part of the larger Visit Selangor Year 2025 initiative. The programme will carry on into 2026, focusing on showcasing unique cultural offerings, promoting lesser-known destinations, and encouraging tourists to extend their visits.
He emphasised that the sustainability fee and stricter STRA guidelines are not merely bureaucratic measures, but part of a broader strategy to strengthen the tourism ecosystem.
&ldquo;Tourism grows only when the state takes deliberate steps to improve its offerings,&rdquo; Ng said. &ldquo;With proper regulation and reinvestment, we want to ensure that every action taken benefits the people of Selangor.&rdquo;
A Balancing Act for the Future of Tourism
As Selangor awaits the Federal Government&rsquo;s final guidelines, industry players&mdash;hotel operators, homestay owners and Airbnb hosts alike&mdash;are watching closely. The upcoming 180-day limit and sustainability fee mark a significant shift in how short-term rentals will operate in Malaysia&rsquo;s most developed state.
While concerns remain over how the changes may affect earnings or market competitiveness, the Selangor State Government maintains that the objective is to create a balanced, safe and sustainable tourism landscape that supports both economic growth and responsible operation.
With formal guidelines expected soon, Selangor is preparing to become one of the first states in Malaysia to introduce comprehensive, clearly defined rules for short-term accommodation &mdash; setting the stage for what could become a nationwide standard.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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The RM2–RM7 sustainability fee will be channelled into conservation and tourism development across Selangor.

bc916a58e802f8c3c99123b3be6fb8d040530958acad63760d3ea9531455bb82

Selangor To Limit Airbnb Operations To Six Months A Year And Introduce Sustainability Fee From 2026

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Pizza hut Meltz 2026

Meta has removed one of the key features of its newly launched Muse Image AI tool just days after its debut, following widespread criticism over privacy, consent and the use of public Instagram content.
The company confirmed that the feature, which allowed users to generate AI images by referencing public Instagram accounts, is no longer available after admitting it "missed the mark". The decision follows backlash from users, creators and industry groups who argued that the feature relied on an opt-out system rather than obtaining explicit permission.
The swift reversal marks one of Meta's fastest product rollbacks in recent years and highlights the growing debate over how artificial intelligence should use publicly available online content.
What Is Muse Image AI?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4d25a0cec7b913239c04b31fc2b556002d84a7d9d10d6b73d9cee310b864285f" />
Muse Image is Meta's first image-generation model developed by Meta Superintelligence Labs. It allows users to create and edit images using text prompts, uploaded photos and sketches through Meta AI.
The technology also powers more than 30 AI effects for Instagram Stories and is integrated into Meta AI on WhatsApp, with plans to expand to other Meta platforms.
Every image generated by Muse Image includes Meta's Content Seal watermark, which is designed to remain attached even after editing or cropping.
The feature that sparked controversy allowed users to generate AI images by simply mentioning public Instagram accounts in their prompts. The AI would then use publicly available images from those accounts as visual references when creating new content.
Why Did It Face Backlash?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b2682ad94e06ba2d67eb8a044283a61000cbeef555f34c3bd572fa5374954eec" />
The criticism centred on the fact that public Instagram accounts belonging to users aged 18 and above were automatically included in the feature by default.
Rather than asking users to opt in, Meta required those who did not want their public photos referenced by AI to manually disable the setting or make their accounts private.
Many users argued that publicly sharing photos does not automatically mean they should be available for AI-generated content. Others were concerned that Instagram users would not be notified if their images had been used as references for someone else's AI creations.
The feature also reignited broader discussions surrounding consent, digital likenesses and the ethical use of publicly available content by AI systems.
Entertainment Industry Raises Concerns
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c0d297576752950aadd859e6b4691268577744e2a7467352fad980b9b5e8dfeb" />
The backlash quickly spread throughout the entertainment industry.
Emmy-winning actress Hannah Einbinder, known for Hacks, criticised the feature after discovering it had been enabled automatically on her account and encouraged others to switch it off.
The criticism was echoed by SAG-AFTRA, the union representing actors and media professionals, which urged Instagram users to opt out and argued that anything other than a clear opt-in system was unacceptable.
The union warned that AI-generated digital replicas remain a growing concern and said users should have complete control over how their likenesses are used.
Meanwhile, talent agency Creative Artists Agency (CAA) said names, images, voices and creative work should never be used by AI systems without clear, documented consent. The agency also called for stronger safeguards that would allow creators to monitor and restrict how their content is used.
After Meta removed the feature, both SAG-AFTRA and CAA welcomed the decision, describing it as the responsible course of action.
Meta Reverses Course
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/213810264761e54e1efc1f8e62afa74daa51b71dd369617f0e7b6dcf3a65b654" />
Muse Image was introduced alongside Muse Video as part of Meta's latest AI rollout. However, the controversial Instagram referencing function lasted only three days before being withdrawn.
In a statement, Meta said its goal had been to provide a useful creative tool while allowing users to control whether their public content could be referenced.
"Our intent was to provide a useful creative tool and to give people control over whether their public content could be referenced in this way," the company said.
"We've heard the feedback that this feature missed the mark, so it's no longer available."
Before removing the feature, Meta maintained that Muse Image had been launched with safety controls, including automatically excluding private accounts and users under 18. However, those safeguards failed to ease concerns over the default opt-out approach.
Privacy Debate Far From Over
The controversy surrounding Muse Image reflects the wider challenges facing AI companies as generative AI becomes increasingly sophisticated.
While AI tools continue to unlock new creative possibilities, they have also raised concerns over consent, copyright, digital identity and the use of people's images without permission.
Although Muse Image's broader image-generation capabilities remain available, Meta's decision to remove its Instagram referencing feature suggests that users expect stronger privacy protections and greater transparency over how their publicly shared content is used.
The incident also serves as another reminder that as AI technology evolves, balancing innovation with user trust and consent will remain one of the industry's biggest challenges.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Users and creators pushed back, and Meta took action. The Muse AI image feature is officially gone — at least for now.

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Meta Removes Controversial Muse AI Image Feature Just Days After Launch Following Privacy Backlash

Former Youth and Sports Minister and Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman has been fully acquitted after the Federal Court dismissed the prosecution's final appeal against his earlier acquittal on four criminal charges.
The ruling brings an end to a legal battle that spanned six years, with the apex court deciding in a 2-1 majority that there was no basis to overturn the Court of Appeal's decision, which had cleared Syed Saddiq in 2025.
The decision means the 33-year-old remains free from all charges of criminal breach of trust (CBT), dishonest misappropriation of property and money laundering linked to funds belonging to Bersatu Youth (ARMADA).
Earlier in the day, Syed Saddiq arrived at the Palace of Justice accompanied by his family, fianc&eacute;e Bella Astillah, Federal Territories Minister Hannah Yeoh and former Education Minister Datuk Dr Maszlee Malik.
Federal Court Delivers Split 2-1 Decision
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c44572b84ca4d28ec9dd5d1a660fc4b43f260d8a9b1dee784699aa5b0b962e30" />
The three-member Federal Court bench consisted of Court of Appeal President Datuk Seri Abu Bakar Jais, alongside Federal Court judges Datuk Che Mohd Ruzima Ghazali and Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah.
Judges Che Mohd Ruzima and Sequerah formed the majority in dismissing the prosecution's appeal and upholding the Court of Appeal's earlier acquittal, while Abu Bakar delivered a dissenting judgment on three of the four charges.
All three judges unanimously agreed that the prosecution failed to prove the charge of abetting criminal breach of trust involving RM1 million from Bersatu Youth funds.
The majority also ruled that the prosecution had failed to establish the necessary legal elements to prove Syed Saddiq had dishonestly misappropriated RM120,000 from Armada Bumi Bersatu Enterprise (ABBE), a company established to generate income for Bersatu Youth through merchandise sales.
As a result, the two money laundering charges, which were based on the alleged misappropriation offence, also could not be sustained.
Judge Sequerah agreed with the Court of Appeal's earlier finding that there was insufficient evidence to show the RM120,000 belonged to ABBE or another party, while Judge Ruzima concurred with the same conclusion.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Muar MP Syed Saddiq Rahman performed a sujud syukur (prostration of gratitude) after being acquitted of corruption charges in the lobby of the Putrajaya court. This gesture is an Islamic expression of deep thankfulness to God, often done after relief from hardship. Vid:Public <a href="https://t.co/WRTU9Pf8dM">pic.twitter.com/WRTU9Pf8dM</a>
&mdash; Kuala Lumpur Reporter 🇲🇾 (@KL_Reporter) <a href="https://x.com/KL_Reporter/status/2076517061585686916?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2026</a></blockquote>

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One Judge Dissented On Three Charges
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3c4df5b99ce3003ec512ae37443701b16efa6320fd901f991a8751399e430ce9" />
Although the appeal was dismissed, Court of Appeal President Abu Bakar Jais disagreed with the majority on the RM120,000 misappropriation charge and the two related money laundering charges.
He held that the fundraising proceeds belonged to the donors rather than Syed Saddiq personally, finding that the prosecution had proven the element of dishonest misappropriation because contributors were never informed that the money would be transferred into his personal account.
Abu Bakar said there was no need for the funds to pass through another account before eventually being deposited into Syed Saddiq's personal bank account.
Under his dissenting judgment, Syed Saddiq would have been sentenced to six months' imprisonment, one stroke of the rotan and financial penalties on the money laundering charges.
However, as it formed part of the minority opinion, the judgment carries no legal effect.
Case Dates Back To 2021 Charges
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/52f4d4fd66ec46df2da6617e37f5a2103850daa9713f840420c7e9e82d716348" />
Syed Saddiq was first charged in 2021 over several offences linked to funds belonging to Bersatu Youth.
The first charge accused him of abetting former ARMADA assistant treasurer Rafiq Hakim Razali in committing criminal breach of trust involving RM1 million withdrawn from Bersatu Youth's account in March 2020.
He also faced a charge of dishonestly misappropriating RM120,000 from ABBE by causing the money to be transferred into his personal bank account.
In addition, he was charged with two counts of money laundering involving RM50,000 each after transferring the funds into his Amanah Saham Bumiputera (ASB) account.
In November 2023, the Kuala Lumpur High Court found him guilty on all charges and sentenced him to seven years' imprisonment, two strokes of the rotan and a RM10 million fine.
However, the Court of Appeal overturned both the convictions and sentence in June 2025, ruling that the convictions were unsafe after finding that the prosecution had failed to prove the essential ingredients of the offences.
The prosecution subsequently brought the matter to the Federal Court in a final appeal, which has now been dismissed.
Defence Welcomes Verdict As Justice Prevails
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/77c57578b73d6fa237a6f6b2fce51010c220abb3da1ab1583096ad7704e7531a" />
Following the ruling, lead defence counsel Datuk Hisyam Teh Poh Teik described the decision as confirmation that justice had ultimately prevailed after years of legal proceedings.
He said the Federal Court carefully examined the evidence before concluding there was insufficient basis to uphold the convictions.
Hisyam also thanked the wider legal team, including Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan, Gobind Singh Deo and Datuk Yusuf Zainal Abiden, for their contributions throughout the High Court, Court of Appeal and Federal Court proceedings.
Ambiga described the ruling as deeply relieving after six years of litigation, saying the defence team believed justice had finally been served.
Syed Saddiq Thanks Family And Looks Ahead
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Alhamdulillah. Hari ini, mahkamah tertinggi negara telah membuat keputusan. Pembebasan saya kekal. Tetapi hari ini bukan sekadar tentang kebebasan saya. Ini tentang satu prinsip bahawa kebenaran mesti dipertahankan, walaupun harga yang perlu dibayar sangat mahal. Lebih enam&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/j0vK8pP1kD">pic.twitter.com/j0vK8pP1kD</a>
&mdash; Syed Saddiq (@SyedSaddiq) <a href="https://x.com/SyedSaddiq/status/2076552305902760200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2026</a></blockquote>

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Speaking to reporters after the verdict, an emotional Syed Saddiq thanked his legal team, supporters, family members and the judges who heard his case throughout the years.
He said the lengthy legal process had strengthened rather than weakened his confidence in Malaysia's judiciary.
"I bear no grudges whatsoever," he said, adding that justice should always be decided through the courts regardless of political differences.
Reflecting on the difficult journey, he urged Malaysians never to compromise their integrity or principles, even during the toughest moments.
He also thanked his fianc&eacute;e, actress and singer Bella Astillah, acknowledging that it had not been easy standing by him after he was initially convicted by the High Court.
Syed Saddiq hinted that the couple may soon move forward with their wedding plans but said he preferred not to discuss personal matters at the courthouse out of respect for the judicial process.
On his political future, he said he intends to spend time with his family before making any announcements, but stressed that his commitment to serving the country remains unchanged.
"The fire to help rebuild Malaysia will never, ever be extinguished," he said.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Justice served. The Federal Court has upheld Syed Saddiq's acquittal, bringing his six-year legal battle to an end.

736e4b77f83b2f1cd1215034205694d202cd0e151e3306e9cc4defd2336ac52a

Syed Saddiq Cleared As Federal Court Upholds Acquittal In Final Appeal

Malaysian fans can look forward to welcoming Henry Lau back to Kuala Lumpur this October as the multi-talented singer, songwriter and entertainer brings his 2026 "ENJOY THE SHOW" World Tour to Malaysia.
The concert marks Henry's return to the country following his appearance at The Exchange TRX's 2025 New Year's Eve Countdown celebration. Known for his energetic performances and exceptional live musicianship, fans can expect an evening filled with hit songs, impressive instrumental performances and immersive stage production.
The Kuala Lumpur stop is part of Henry's wider Asia tour, which also includes Bangkok, Tokyo, Jakarta and Seoul.
Who Is Henry Lau?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bc8bf8a29e9ecaade0351121f5ee349c86aee8dba383e8c5162f2b3c73aec8e0" />
Henry Lau is a Chinese-Canadian singer, songwriter, producer, actor and television personality who first rose to prominence as a member of Super Junior-M, the Mandarin-language sub-unit of K-pop group Super Junior.
Although he debuted as part of one of K-pop's biggest acts, Henry soon established himself as a successful solo artist, earning praise for his versatility and outstanding musical abilities. Unlike many performers, he is known for playing multiple instruments, including the violin, piano, guitar and drums, often incorporating them into his live performances.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IsXB5eRMRno" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
His breakthrough as a solo artist came with the release of Trap in 2013, featuring Super Junior's Kyuhyun and SHINee's Taemin. The song showcased a blend of pop, R&amp;B and orchestral elements while highlighting Henry's vocal talent and musicianship, helping him carve out his own identity beyond Super Junior-M.
Since then, he has released popular tracks such as It's You, Monster, Girlfriend, Moonlight, Thinking of You, and Radio, building a loyal international fanbase.
Beyond music, Henry has become a familiar face on Korean television through hit variety programmes including I Live Alone, Begin Again and Real Men, where his humour, personality and musical talent have earned him even wider recognition across Asia.
Throughout his career, Henry has received numerous accolades, including awards for music, variety entertainment and television appearances, cementing his reputation as one of the entertainment industry's most versatile performers.
Kuala Lumpur Concert Details
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5ee7842ba5651d3bb8a7b8bc209ac3659fb04cfa553fc9d345ba7e2e7fcaf70e" />
Henry will perform at Idea Live Arena on Saturday, 3 October 2026, with the show scheduled to begin at 7.30pm.
Organised by iMe Malaysia, the concert promises an immersive production featuring live instrumentation, storytelling and Henry's signature stage presence.
Fans can expect a setlist featuring many of his biggest solo hits alongside performances from his latest musical era.
Henry Lau "ENJOY THE SHOW" World Tour &ndash; Kuala Lumpur
<ul>
<li>Date: 3 October 2026 (Saturday)</li>
<li>Time: 7.30pm</li>
<li>Venue: Idea Live Arena, Kuala Lumpur</li>
<li>Organiser: iMe Malaysia</li>
</ul>
Ticket Prices &amp; Sales
Tickets will be available through <a href="https://www.fantopia.io/">Fantopia</a>, <a href="https://my.bookmyshow.com/en">BookMyShow</a>, <a href="https://www.maiseat.com/en-US">MAISEAT</a>, and <a href="https://my.trip.com/?locale=en-my">Trip.com</a>.
Ticket categories are priced as follows:
<ul>
<li>PS1: RM698</li>
<li>PS2: RM598</li>
<li>PS3: RM498</li>
<li>PS4: RM398</li>
</ul>
Fans looking for a more exclusive experience can also purchase VIP packages:
<ul>
<li>Enjoy VIP: RM1,298</li>
<li>The VIP: RM998</li>
<li>Show VIP: RM798</li>
</ul>
The exclusive pre-sale will take place on 16 July 2026 from 12.00pm to 3.00pm, while general ticket sales begin on 17 July 2026 at 12.00pm.
Stream Henry Lau's Latest Single 'Enjoy The Show'
&nbsp;<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nbBSwZRXmEU" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Ahead of the concert, fans can stream Henry's latest single, Enjoy The Show, on Spotify and other major streaming platforms.
The track serves as the title song for his latest world tour and reflects the uplifting, feel-good energy Henry hopes to share with audiences around the world. Blending catchy pop melodies with warm instrumentals and his signature heartfelt vocals, the song encourages listeners to embrace every moment, celebrate life's experiences and simply "enjoy the show".
With the new single expected to feature prominently during the Kuala Lumpur concert, fans have plenty of time to learn the lyrics before singing along with Henry live this October.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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From soulful vocals to live violin solos, Henry Lau is ready to light up the stage once again.

2d1e62af8c4f53bee875a256d6336d331d9b91c6428095e94847d85fc5a39635

Henry Lau To Bring ‘ENJOY THE SHOW’ World Tour To Kuala Lumpur This October

Parti BERSAMA Malaysia suffered a crushing defeat in its first-ever election after all 15 of its candidates lost their deposits in the Johor state election, marking a difficult debut for the political party founded by former PKR deputy president Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli just 52 days before polling day.
The disappointing result came as Barisan Nasional (BN) strengthened its dominance in Johor, securing a landslide victory by winning 48 of the state's 56 seats and expanding its majority from the 40 seats it won in the 2022 election.
Despite the setback, Rafizi described the election as the beginning of BERSAMA's political journey rather than its conclusion, pledging that the party would study its weaknesses and continue building support ahead of future elections.
All BERSAMA Candidates Lose Deposits
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d49abdfeb58191ff549c07a4976f70dbf9d5ec68ddb5376313faf6020649ef60" />
In a statement following the election, Rafizi confirmed that every BERSAMA candidate failed to secure the minimum 12.5% of votes required under Malaysian electoral laws to retain their election deposits.
For Johor state assembly (DUN) elections, each candidate is required to place a RM5,000 deposit, which is forfeited if they fail to obtain at least one-eighth of the total valid votes cast.
Based on preliminary figures collected from Form 14 polling documents and unofficial results, BERSAMA candidates received an average vote share of between 3% and 6% across the 15 constituencies the party contested.
The outcome also fell well short of the party's internal target of obtaining at least 15% of the vote in every seat.
"This means all BERSAMA candidates lost their deposits because they did not obtain the minimum 12.5% of votes," Rafizi said.
He added that the party would carry out a detailed review of the results to improve its strategy and better connect with voters in future elections.
Rafizi: BERSAMA's Journey Has Only Just Begun
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4f673af8f1a6311182079b3523babb2e9f4075046d385c66a14933a27516d7e8" />
While acknowledging the disappointing outcome, Rafizi maintained that the campaign had provided valuable experience for a party that had only existed for 52 days.
He thanked Johor voters who placed their trust in BERSAMA despite its infancy, while also expressing appreciation to the party's candidates, members, volunteers and supporters who helped throughout the campaign.
A modest appreciation event for the party's election machinery will be held at BERSAMA's new headquarters once it is ready for use in the coming weeks.
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In a separate message to supporters, Rafizi urged them not to lose hope, describing the Johor election as merely the first chapter in a much longer political journey.
He said building a political movement capable of returning power to ordinary Malaysians could never be achieved within just a few weeks.
"The results are not the end, but the beginning. We knew this journey would not be easy," he said.
Rafizi added that every vote, conversation, criticism and word of encouragement received during the campaign would serve as motivation for the party to improve.
He also reiterated that BERSAMA was founded with the aim of introducing a new political culture centred on honesty, public service and empowering Malaysians, rather than simply competing for political power.
"The seed has been planted. Now it is time for us to nurture it together. BERSAMA's journey has only just begun," he said.
Urban Seats Failed To Deliver Reform Vote
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0df55674df9df8e9797c8d8fec86de3617459dd299e85ee10928bf43449109dc" />
BERSAMA had focused much of its campaign on urban constituencies, hoping to attract younger and reform-minded voters.
However, the strategy failed to translate into votes.
The party contested several seats in and around Johor Bahru, including Permas, Tiram, Kota Iskandar, Skudai, Larkin, Perling and Stulang, but none produced the breakthrough the party had hoped for.
Most candidates recorded between 2% and 5% of the total vote, while Bukit Naning proved to be the party's weakest performance with just 138 votes, equivalent to only 0.8% of ballots cast.
Although some analysts noted that BERSAMA consistently secured around 3% to 4% of the vote in several urban constituencies, the figures remained far below the threshold needed to pose a serious electoral challenge.
Political observers have also suggested that the party's visibility on social media did not translate into meaningful support at polling stations, highlighting the gap between online engagement and actual voter turnout.
BN Dominates Johor As Opposition Suffers Heavy Losses
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/99d8fad2a235ee6776230f0ff4455632c7f5ba4815ef56fdd7f2c7c7bba585d0" />
BERSAMA was not the only party to endure a disappointing night.
BN comfortably retained control of Johor after winning 48 seats, surpassing the 38-seat threshold required for a two-thirds majority in the state assembly.
UMNO won 36 of the 37 seats it contested, while MCA doubled its representation by winning eight seats, including several constituencies previously held by DAP. MIC also secured victory in all four seats it contested.
Pakatan Harapan (PH) finished with eight seats overall, comprising six won by DAP, one by Amanah, and one by PKR.
PKR's only successful candidate was former education minister Dr Maszlee Malik, who retained Puteri Wangsa with 41,821 votes in a five-cornered contest, defeating BN's MCA candidate by a majority of 5,744 votes.
Perikatan Nasional (PN) failed to retain any of the three seats it previously held, while MUDA was also wiped out after losing every seat it contested, with many of its candidates forfeiting their deposits.
Overall voter turnout stood at 69.57%, a notable increase from 54.9% recorded during the 2022 Johor state election.
According to early assessments shared by Rafizi, there was a significant swing in support towards BN across different age groups and ethnic communities, affecting candidates from PH, PN, MUDA and BERSAMA alike.
With Negeri Sembilan and Melaka expected to head to the polls next, BERSAMA has indicated it will use the lessons learned from Johor to reassess its campaign strategy as it prepares for future state elections.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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BN tightens its grip on Johor as BERSAMA's first electoral test ends in a complete wipeout.

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BERSAMA Wiped Out In Johor Polls As All 15 Candidates Lose Deposits, BN Tightens Grip On State

The government has made a significant U-turn on its recently introduced Lindung 24 Jam scheme, announcing that contributions to the Social Security Organisation's (SOCSO) Non-Workplace Accident Scheme will no longer be mandatory for Malaysian employees.
The decision comes just over a month after the scheme was introduced on 1 June following amendments to the Employees' Social Security Act 1969 (Act 4), which expanded social security protection to cover accidents that occur outside normal working hours. Initially, all local employees were required to contribute towards the scheme through deductions from their salaries.
However, following widespread public feedback, the Cabinet has now decided that participation will instead be voluntary with immediate effect, allowing Malaysian workers to decide whether the additional coverage suits their personal needs.
Cabinet Reverses Mandatory Contributions
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/443eef064581444592b25c6b6bff0fd9fdef5515c2ff2d0898ddc70805509ec1" />
Government spokesperson and Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil announced the decision after the weekly Cabinet meeting on 8 July, saying Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had raised concerns over public feedback surrounding the implementation of the scheme.
"The Cabinet has decided that contributions will no longer be mandatory, but voluntary, with immediate effect," Fahmi said, adding that the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) will provide further details on how the new voluntary mechanism will operate.
The announcement marks a swift policy reversal, considering the scheme only came into force a month earlier and was promoted as an expansion of Malaysia's social protection framework.
Why Was The Scheme Introduced?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/64e913a3499f3c5d3c6704dd3ac0fe225f8fd4326aff5adc5fdb9a44aa80ef7a" />
Lindung 24 Jam was introduced by PERKESO to provide broader protection for employees who suffer accidents outside their workplace and beyond official working hours.
Unlike the existing Employment Injury Scheme, which primarily covers work-related accidents, Lindung 24 Jam extends coverage to incidents that happen during everyday life. This includes accidents at home, while travelling for personal reasons, during recreational activities, on weekends, public holidays, or while carrying out other non-work-related activities.
According to PERKESO, the aim is to provide workers and their families with a more comprehensive social safety net by recognising that serious accidents can happen at any time, not just while someone is at work.
Benefits under the scheme include financial assistance, medical treatment support and other forms of social security protection for eligible contributors who suffer non-work-related accidents.
Public Criticism Prompted The Policy Change
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/78672613b72675d40c6a091eccda4e23b5294150da9e805c7024d623be8c6836" />
While the objective of the scheme was generally welcomed, its financing model quickly became a point of contention.
Under the original implementation, the entire contribution would have been paid by employees instead of employers, resulting in additional monthly salary deductions.
The contribution structure was introduced in phases:
<ul>
<li>0.75% of monthly wages during the first two years</li>
<li>1.0% over the following three years</li>
<li>1.25% from the sixth year onwards</li>
</ul>
The contributions were subject to a wage ceiling of RM6,000.
For example, an employee earning RM3,000 a month would have contributed around RM22.50 monthly during the first phase, while someone earning RM5,000 would contribute approximately RM37.50.
Although the monthly amounts were relatively modest, many Malaysians questioned why the scheme should be compulsory, especially when numerous workers already pay for personal accident insurance or medical insurance through private providers.
The announcement triggered widespread discussion across social media, with some arguing that workers should be allowed to choose whether they wanted the additional protection instead of having another mandatory deduction from their salaries.
Following the public response, the Prime Minister reviewed the feedback before the matter was brought before the Cabinet, which ultimately decided to make participation voluntary.
Foreign Workers Will Still Be Covered
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2042ca6c2573a857abacae9fda8ef4fd12ba3e9ab71643a94dd4facbec40c14e" />
While Malaysian employees can now decide whether to join the scheme, the government confirmed that the policy remains unchanged for foreign workers.
Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said contributions under Lindung 24 Jam will continue to be mandatory for foreign workers in accordance with existing legal provisions.
He explained that the Cabinet's latest decision only affects local employees, giving Malaysians the flexibility to determine whether the additional protection matches their own financial circumstances and insurance needs.
PERKESO is expected to announce the implementation mechanism, including how Malaysian workers can voluntarily register for the scheme, in the near future.
PERKESO Says The Scheme Is Already Benefiting Workers
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/98ae7b9835d9cf30ffaa910c5da3ba6e2d0c8dfb213a313b19d349fbe3c6b32a" />
Despite the public debate surrounding mandatory contributions, PERKESO maintains that Lindung 24 Jam has already demonstrated its value during its first month of implementation.
According to the agency, more than RM1.2 million in benefits has already been paid out after 592 claims were approved.
The organisation also reported recording an average of nearly 20 non-workplace accident cases each day, highlighting the frequency of accidents occurring outside working hours.
Of the total amount paid, around RM1.16 million went towards implant costs, while approximately RM99,000 was disbursed as temporary disablement benefits.
PERKESO has consistently maintained that extending social security beyond the workplace helps protect workers and their families from unexpected financial burdens arising from accidents that occur during everyday life.
Government To Review The Scheme's Future
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/054992d8c724b074744a0d365ba25884af7e495163c428b34337670d64c3ec57" />
Although the contribution requirement has now become voluntary for Malaysian workers, the government says Lindung 24 Jam remains an important component of Malaysia's social protection system.
Ramanan said the Human Resources Ministry will conduct a comprehensive review of the scheme towards the end of the year, covering its policy direction, implementation effectiveness and long-term financial sustainability.
If necessary, the findings will be tabled in Parliament together with proposed amendments to the Employees' Social Security Act 1969 to ensure the scheme remains practical, sustainable and beneficial to workers.
In the meantime, PERKESO will continue strengthening public awareness efforts by educating workers on the benefits offered under Lindung 24 Jam, allowing Malaysians to make informed decisions on whether they wish to participate now that enrolment is no longer compulsory.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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After widespread public feedback, the government has reversed its decision, making SOCSO's Lindung 24 Jam contributions voluntary instead of mandatory.

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Government Makes U-Turn On Mandatory SOCSO Lindung 24 Jam Contributions, Scheme Now Voluntary For Malaysians

Eligible pickup truck and jeep owners under the BUDI MADANI programme can now receive up to 300 litres of subsidised fuel each month, but many users have been left wondering how the additional allocation appears in the Touch 'n Go (TNG) eWallet app.
The confusion stems from the app only displaying a shared 200-litre monthly quota for BUDI95 petrol and BUDI Diesel, despite the government's recent announcement that certain vehicle owners are entitled to an extra 100 litres.
TNG Digital has now clarified how the system works, explaining that the higher quota will automatically be reflected in the app once an eligible application has been approved.
Additional 100-Litre Quota Requires Approval
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b316a30225450ad837913c78002012b3d49d9f8b69d53d79e2d2741108aaaa44" />
Under the BUDI MADANI programme, all eligible motorists begin with a shared monthly allocation of 200 litres, which can be used flexibly for subsidised RON95 petrol, diesel, or a combination of both.
Owners of eligible private pickup trucks and jeeps who require more fuel for work-related purposes, such as small businesses, agriculture or rural commuting, can apply for an additional 100 litres, bringing their total monthly entitlement to 300 litres.
Applications for the extra allocation must be submitted through the official BUDI MADANI portal using MyDigital ID. Once approved, the updated entitlement will automatically appear in the user's TNG eWallet without requiring any additional action.
How the 300-Litre Quota Works
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1649abd9b4d605284cc8fc3884a9862024b1bdb6e085ccc1a00fec412018d412" />
Although the app only displays a single combined fuel quota, TNG Digital explained that the government's implementation is expected to function as intended.
Eligible users will first consume the standard 200-litre shared allocation across BUDI95 petrol and BUDI Diesel. Once this has been exhausted, the remaining 100 litres can only be used for subsidised diesel purchases.
Rather than separating the allocations into different balances, the app simply updates the total available monthly quota to 300 litres, making it easier for users to manage their entitlement through one interface.
Subsidised Diesel Now Available Nationwide Through TNG eWallet
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/5c41efff6329c7beadd36c0694b3f1ce630feb5a1ada1a69e77e09f07cf767ea" />
The BUDI Diesel programme officially came into effect nationwide on 1 July 2026, replacing the previous subsidy mechanisms with a single system covering Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan.
Instead of receiving monthly cash assistance, eligible motorists now enjoy the subsidy instantly at the pump, purchasing diesel at RM2.10 per litre.
Eligibility is verified digitally through TNG eWallet or via a physical MyKad, allowing motorists to access subsidised fuel without waiting for reimbursements.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for BUDI Diesel, applicants must:
<ul>
<li>Be a Malaysian citizen.</li>
<li>Hold a valid driving licence.</li>
<li>Own a privately registered diesel vehicle.</li>
<li>Have an active road tax registered under their own name.</li>
</ul>
Eligible vehicle categories include:
<ul>
<li>Individual private motor vehicles (Class AB)</li>
<li>Private cars other than individual motor vehicles (Class AD)</li>
<li>OKU private vehicles (Class IA)</li>
<li>Individual e-hailing vehicles (Class AH)</li>
</ul>
Those who were previously enrolled under the BUDI Diesel Individu cash assistance scheme have already been automatically migrated to the new nationwide system and do not need to submit another application.
How to Refuel Using TNG eWallet
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c42bbdc1f82cf56aa1ae76fa2d94e4b36e03fc534a7f45e35da21382544fbb8f" />
Using subsidised fuel through TNG eWallet remains straightforward.
Before refuelling, users should complete the app's eKYC verification, which links their identity and enables the BUDI MADANI feature.
At participating petrol stations, users simply:
<ol>
<li>Open the BUDI MADANI feature in TNG eWallet.</li>
<li>Select diesel or RON95.</li>
<li>Choose the petrol station and enter the pump number.</li>
<li>Input the desired purchase amount and complete payment.</li>
<li>Present the generated QR code to the cashier, or use Setel at participating PETRONAS stations for a fully digital experience.</li>
</ol>
If the amount pumped is lower than the prepaid value, any unused balance is automatically refunded to the user's TNG eWallet.
Motorists who prefer not to use the app can still verify their eligibility using their physical MyKad at participating stations or selected outdoor payment terminals.
One Shared Quota for Greater Flexibility
One of the key features of the updated subsidy system is the shared monthly entitlement between BUDI95 and BUDI Diesel.
Eligible users can choose how they utilise their allocation depending on their needs, whether that means using all 200 litres for diesel, all for RON95, or splitting the quota between both fuel types.
For approved pickup truck and jeep owners, the additional 100 litres provides greater flexibility for those who rely on diesel-powered vehicles for work, while still keeping the subsidy integrated within a single digital platform.
With the latest clarification from TNG Digital, eligible motorists can now better understand how the increased quota will appear in the app, ensuring a smoother refuelling experience as Malaysia continues its nationwide rollout of the targeted fuel subsidy programme.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Your TNG eWallet quota will automatically update to 300 litres once your additional BUDI Diesel allocation is approved.

Selangor To Limit Airbnb Operations To Six Months A Year And Introduce Sustainability Fee From 2026

The RM2–RM7 sustainability fee will be channelled into conservation and tourism development across Selangor.

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