Reinstate EPF computer scheme, urges Shaziman
TAMPIN: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has been asked to review the discontinued Employees' Provident Fund withdrawal scheme for computer purchases.

Fairus to pursue studies, says Zahrain
Penang Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) chief Datuk Zahrain Mohamed Hashim said today he understood that Penang Deputy Chief Minister I Mohammad Fairus Khairuddin was relinquishing the post to pursue further studies.

Reinstate EPF computer scheme, urges Shaziman
TAMPIN: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has been asked to review the discontinued Employees' Provident Fund withdrawal scheme for computer purchases.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

Penanti by-election: 4 candidates after one disqualified
BUKIT MERTAJAM, Sat.: Five people submitted nomination papers today for the Penanti state by-election at the nomination centre at Dewan Perdana of the National Youth Skills Institute in Jalan Berapit here.

Perak sultan swears in Zambry as new MB
KUALA KANGSAR: The Barisan Nasional officially took over the state administration yesterday, with Pangkor assemblyman Datuk Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir sworn in as the new menteri besar.

Najib: He will be sensitive to all races
KUALA LUMPUR: The selection of Pangkor state assemblyman Da- tuk Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir as the new menteri besar of Perak is apt, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said yesterday.

Ex-state secretary's tomb raided
KUCHING: Tomb raiders have struck again, much to the dismay of the relatives of the dead, including a former state secretary.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

Dr M: Salleh was sacked, pension given on compassionate grounds
PUTRAJAYA: Tun Salleh Abas was indeed sacked as lord president but obtained a pension on grounds of compassion, said former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

Cabinet defers increase in levy on foreign workers
KUALA LUMPUR: The cabinet has decided to defer temporarily the implementation of the foreign worker levy hike, Human Resources Minister Datuk Dr S. Subramaniam said yesterday.

Ganesan tipped for speaker
IPOH: Datuk R. Ganesan, the former two-term Sungkai state assemblyman, has been nominated as Barisan Nasional's replacement candidate for the state assembly speaker's post.

Two with tiger skins arrested
ALOR STAR: Local conservationists have estimated that there are now fewer than 500 Malayan tigers left in the jungles in the peninsula.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

'Say no to war' campaign
KUALA LUMPUR: MCA has started a signature campaign to condemn Israel's invasion of Gaza.

For 37-year old Muhammad Noor and wife, 106-year old Wok, every day is Valentine's Day
KUALA TERENGGANU: When Muhammad Noor Che Musa and Wok Kundor tied the knot just over three years ago, nobody gave their marriage much of a chance to survive.

Nizar 'marched out' of his office
IPOH: Datuk Seri Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin, who refused to resign as Perak menteri besar, was marched out of the state secretariat building here yesterday after he turned up to claim his old office.

Protesters mar swearing-in of new MB
KUALA KANGSAR: The scenic peace of Bukit Chandan, with the glorious and majestic Ubudiah Mosque as its famous backdrop, was shattered when tear gas was fired at demonstrators who had gathered to protest the swearing-in of the new menteri besar from Barisan Nasional.

Influenza A: Malaysia pushes for exit screening
PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia is pushing for the World Health Organisation (WHO) to adopt a requirement for affected countries to implement exit screening to stop the spread of the new influenza A, following concerns that a second wave of H1N1 could be more deadly.

Influenza A: Hospital staff on high alert
KUALA LUMPUR: Staff and medical officers were on high alert yesterday as Sungai Buloh Hospital prepared to handle its first influenza A (H1N1) case.

Updated: 1pm 13 ISA detainees to leave centre tomorrow
The 13 Internal Security Act (ISA) detainees who are being released will be allowed to leave the Kamunting Detention Centre near Taiping tomorrow, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Musa Hassan said today.

Najib: ISA detainees freed in people's interests
The government's release of the 13 Internal Security Act (ISA) detainees was done in the interests of the people and not to garner popularity, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said today.

Updated 3:06pm Dr M, wife and son rejoin Umno
Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad; his wife Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali; and son Datuk Mokhzani Mahathir have rejoined Umno. They handed in their forms and RM2 fee to the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak at noon.

PM Najib's take on by-elections
KLANG: Too much time, energy and money have been spent on by-elections that were not really necessary, Datuk Seri Najib Razak said yesterday.

KT BY-ELECTION: Mohd Abdul Wahid Endut wins with 32,883 votes
Mohd Abdul Wahid Endut of Pas won the Kuala Terengganu parlimentary by-election when he polled 32,883 votes, defeating Barisan Nasional’s candidate Datuk Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh who obtained 30,252 votes. Independent candidate Azharudin Mamat @ Adam obtained 193 votes.

Kugan's death now classified as murder
PUTRAJAYA: The case of detainee A. Kugan, who died while in police custody two days ago, has been classified as murder.

Extended train, bus services for New Year
PETALING JAYA: Rangkaian Pengangkutan Integrasi Deras Sdn Bhd (RapidKL) will extend the time of its light rail transit (LRT) and bus services to several stations and selected routes on Wednesday for the New Year celebrations.

Perak to go ahead with assembly sitting on May 7
Perak will go ahead with the state legislative assembly sitting on May 7, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said today.

PENANG QUARRIES PROBE: 2 companies to settle RM6m unpaid royalty
The Penang government today ordered two quarry companies in Seberang Perai Tengah to settle RM6.01 million in outstanding royalty over the past five years.

FORMULA ONE: Trulli on pole for Bahrain Grand Prix
Italian veteran Jarno Trulli took pole position for Sunday’s Bahrain Grand Prix when he delivered a scorching final lap in Saturday’s closely-contested qualifying session at the Sakhir circuit.

Danger zone sealed off: Tests reveal area still unstable
KUALA LUMPUR: Ground Zero, the site in Bukit Antarabangsa where the main force of the landslide vented its devastation on two housing areas, was sealed off yesterday afternoon.

BN candidate for Bukit Gantang is Ismail Safian
TAIPING, Sat.: Former information chief for the Umno Bukit Gantang division and businessman Ismail Safian, 50, is the BN candidate for the Bukit Gantang parliamentary by-election, Datuk Seri Najib Razak announced at Simpang near here today.

BN candidate for Bukit Selambau is S. Ganesan
SUNGAI PETANI, Sat.: Kedah MIC deputy chairman Datuk S. Ganesan is the Barisan Nasional's candidate for the Bukit Selambau state by-election.

BN candidate for Batang Ai is Malcolm Mussen Lamoh
KUCHING: It’s an open secret that the Barisan Nasional candidate for the upcoming Batang Air by-election is state agriculture department engineer Malcolm Mussen anak Lamoh.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

Selangor sultan saddened by reactions to Perak crisis
KLANG: Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah is deeply saddened and disappointed over the disputes relating to the recent appointment of the new Perak government to the extent of displaying rudeness to Sultan of Perak Sultan Azlan Shah.

Same day by-elections for security reasons
PUTRAJAYA: By-elections will be held on April 7 in both the Bukit Gantang parliamentary seat in Perak and the Bukit Selambau state seat in Kedah to prevent any disruption of peace and security.

Pakatan's rift of disagreements
Barely a year after the DAP, PAS and Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) pact took over the administration of four states, their leaders appear to be embroiled in a myriad of disagreements. The relationship between DAP and PAS is already on the rocks, following the latter’s proposal to introduce the Hudud law (Islamic penal code), which the DAP made no attempt to hide its displeasure, with PKR taking the middle ground.

Pakatan's gambit
:: Speaker cites Zambry & Exco for contempt
:: Refers them to committee of privileges

Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir and six state executive councillors who took their oaths last Tuesday will be referred to the state legislative assembly’s committee of privileges this Wednesday, said Perak Assembly Speaker V. Sivakumar.

Reinstate EPF computer scheme, urges Shaziman
TAMPIN: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has been asked to review the discontinued Employees' Provident Fund withdrawal scheme for computer purchases.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

Drivers to bear fine for offenders below 17
KUALA LUMPUR: If rear-seat passengers under the age of 17 are not buckled up, the car driver will be fined for the offence.

Police go hi-tech to fight car thefts
Vehicle theft cases have been on the rise in recent years. Shanti Gunaratnam and Alang Bendahara talk to police and insurance experts about the problem

3 released Hindraf leaders leave Kamunting
Three Hindraf leaders, P. Uthayakumar, M. Manoharan and K. Vasantha Kumar who were detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA) left the Kamunting Detention Centre today.

Khir wants menteri besar to quit
SHAH ALAM: Selangor opposition leader Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khir Toyo said Selangor Menteri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim should resign his post if he was charged in court for using state funds to maintain his personal vehicle and purchasing 46 cows worth RM110,400 for his own interest.

Mock summonses for those not wearing rear seat belts
Mock summonses will be slapped on rear passengers who do not wear seat belts beginning Dec 16, said Road Safety Department (JKJR) director-general Datuk Suret Singh today.

Rental for PPR flats remains at RM124 per month
The government will not raise the rental for People’s Housing Project (PPR) houses, Deputy Minister for Housing and Local Government, Datuk Hamzah Zainuddin, said today.

Oiling the KL-Tashkent link
BILATERAL relations between Kuala Lumpur and Tashkent will be taken to the next level with the announcement of up to RM700 million in investments for oil and gas projects undertaken by Petronas in Uzbekistan within the next three years.

Reinstate EPF computer scheme, urges Shaziman
TAMPIN: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has been asked to review the discontinued Employees' Provident Fund withdrawal scheme for computer purchases.

D-Day on January 17: Two enforcement teams to monitor campaigning
PUTRAJAYA: The by-election for the Kuala Terengganu parliamentary constituency will be held on Jan 17, 11 days after nomination day on Jan 6.

Bukit Antarabangsa landslide update: Witness says he heard 'explosion'
KUALA LUMPUR, Sat.: The quiet in Taman Bukit Mewah and Taman Bukit Utama in Bukit Antarabangsa was shattered by the sound of strong wind and an explosion just before the landslide hit the neighbourhood in the wee hours of the morning, according to an eyewitness.

Newsflash: DPM says no more hillside developments
KUALA LUMPUR, Sat.: The government will not allow any development in hilly areas at risk of landslides to avert a recurrence of such mishaps, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said today.

Businessman's short-lived relief
Businessman Datuk Syed Elias Syed Ahmad heaved a sigh of relief when he reached home at Bukit Antarabangsa from Segamat this morning. Rubbles from the hilltop only hit his backyard fence and his bungalow was saved.

Update: Two in missing list, thousands without electricity
Police have clarified that they are looking for two people beneath the rubbles at Bukit Antarabangsa. The other four said to be missing earlier, have contacted the police.

Latest: Fourth body found, one still missing
Rescuers pulled out the body of the fourth victim at 7.40pm tonight. She is identified as Surina, 30, an Indonesian maid. The other three victims were identified as veterinarian Dr N. Yogeswary, 40, accountant Ng Yee Ping and Saiful Khas Shaharuddin, 20. Workers are now searching for another victim. They have identified the location where the man could be trapped.

DAP stalwart to quit as Ipoh councillor
IPOH: DAP stalwart M. Kulasegaran has dropped a bombshell on the party -- he will announce today his resignation as an Ipoh city councillor.

Reinstate EPF computer scheme, urges Shaziman
TAMPIN: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has been asked to review the discontinued Employees' Provident Fund withdrawal scheme for computer purchases.

Tuanku Ja'afar dies
The Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Ja’afar ibni Almarhum Tuanku Abdul Rahman, passed away at 11.45am today. He was 86.

OBITUARY: Tuanku Ja’afar was loved by his subjects
The Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Ja’afar Ibni Al-Marhum Tuanku Abdul Rahman, who died today at the age of 86, was a ruler who was loved by the people, more so for his wisdom, sincerity and dedication.

Bus operators want
100 per cent increase in fares
KUALA LUMPUR: Roti canai and teh tarik prices are down. Hypermarkets are slashing food prices. And more importantly, fuel prices are still coming down.

Bus operators want
100 per cent increase in fares
KUALA LUMPUR: Roti canai and teh tarik prices are down. Hypermarkets are slashing food prices. And more importantly, fuel prices are still coming down.

Abdullah: March date for party elections stays
KUALA LUMPUR: Umno president Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi yesterday put an end to speculation that the party elections scheduled for next March would be switched back to their original date of December.

Reinstate EPF computer scheme, urges Shaziman
TAMPIN: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has been asked to review the discontinued Employees' Provident Fund withdrawal scheme for computer purchases.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

Oakleaf Park residents get assurance on safety
KUALA LUMPUR: The residents of Oakleaf Park in Bukit Antarabangsa have obtained assurances from the housing developer that the building is safe for occupation.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

Bukit Antarabangsa landslide: At least seven believed still buried
KUALA LUMPUR, Sat.: A landslide occurred at about 4am today in Bukit Antarabangsa, Hulu Klang, near here and among those confirmed dead in the incident which buried 14 bungalows in two housing estates are a Malay man and two Chinese women.

Malaysian sentenced to death by Singapore court for drug trafficking
A 20-year-old Malaysian was sentenced to death by a Singapore court for a drug trafficking offence, the local media reported today

Time is right to free 13 ISA detainees
PUTRAJAYA: Another 13 Internal Security Act detainees, including Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) legal adviser P. Uthayakumar, will be freed in the next few days.

Perak Assembly: Don't let law of the jungle rule, says Najib
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia must not descend into a disorderly state where the law of the jungle rules, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said yesterday.

Thai police arrest Malaysian in credit card fraud
Thai police have arrested a Malaysian man suspected of leading a credit card fraud gang in the northern city of Chiang Mai.

It's my most challenging period, says Ali Rustam
Malacca Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam has described his disqualification from contesting the Umno deputy presidency as the most challenging period of his involvement with the party.

Malaysia Airlines flight information between Thailand and Malaysia
In view of the prevailing situation at Suvarnabhumi International Airport (SIT) in Bangkok which remains closed, Malaysia Airlines (MAS) will continue with its contingency plan on Sunday (Nov 30) to bring back its passengers stranded in the Thai capital.

Thai police plans to disperse anti-government protesters soon
Thai police are planning to disperse thousands of anti-government protests at Bangkok’s two airports tonight, the ASTV reported.

Gaza Under Siege: Israel rejects UN resolution
GAZA: Israel rejected a UN resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza yesterday and jets and tanks again pounded the Palestinian enclave.

Drivers to bear fine for offenders below 17
KUALA LUMPUR: If rear-seat passengers under the age of 17 are not buckled up, the car driver will be fined for the offence.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

Kugan Murder: 11 police personnel assigned to desk duty
SHAH ALAM: Police have, with immediate effect, removed 11 constables and lance corporals from the Subang Taipan police station where the case of A. Kugan, a detainee, who died in their custody, was reclassified as murder yesterday.

Drivers to bear fine for offenders below 17
KUALA LUMPUR: If rear-seat passengers under the age of 17 are not buckled up, the car driver will be fined for the offence.

KT BY-ELECTION: Polling closed, 76 per cent turnout at 4pm
All 36 polling centres for the Kuala Terengganu parliamentary by-election were closed at 5pm today.

Najib makes surprise visit to 3 areas in KL
Less than 24 hours after he was appointed Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Razak made a surprise visit to three areas in the federal capital to meet the people and know their problems.

Najib arrives from Pattaya
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak arrived home today from Pattaya, Thailand after the 14th Asean Summit was cut short by political unrest.

14th Asean Summit cancelled
LATEST The 14th Asean Summit is cancelled, the Thai government announced in Pattaya today.

Thai PM declare state of emergency, Najib heads home
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak is flying home from Pattaya; he was due to leave at 3.30 pm today.

RM2b financing cover to assist SMEs
KUALA LUMPUR: Bank Negara Malaysia has announced a RM2 billion SME Assistance Guarantee Scheme (SAGS) to help SMEs finance their operations during the economic slowdown.

Umno General Assembly: New line-up acceptable to all delegates, says Najib
KUALA LUMPUR: The new Umno line-up is a potent and cohesive team, said its president, Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

KT BY-ELECTION: Ballot boxes sent to tallying centre
The ballot boxes from the 37 voting centres are being sent to the tallying centre in Stadium Negeri. The Election Commission is holding a Press conference on the just concluded voting process at the same venue.

GAZA: Israel fails in bid to derail UN session
PUTRAJAYA: The expected move by Israel to derail the ongoing United Nations emergency session failed yesterday, allowing Malaysia to take the floor in pushing for a "Uniting for Peace" resolution.

Samy Vellu questioned over missing MIED funds
KUALA LUMPUR: MIC president Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu was interviewed by police from the federal police Commercial Crimes Investigation Department yesterday.

Effective, clean, friendly - Perak new government
Barisan Nasional will retain the hearts of Perak people by ensuring the government is effective, clean and friendly, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said.

PM: Spread message of our religious tolerance
SUBANG JAYA: Religious leaders must continuously spread the message that Malaysia offers religious tolerance and freedom to those who profess different beliefs, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said.

Remembering tsunami 2004
MEULABOH (Indonesia): Nations across Asia marked four years since the deadly Indian Ocean tsunami yesterday with prayers and remembrances.

Heart babies need funds for surgery
GEORGE TOWN: Two-month-old Muhammad Izham Zamri, who underwent an operation yesterday to correct a complex congenital heart disease called total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage, is in need of financial help.

Aussie student is Malaysia's 7th influenza A victim
Malaysia confirms its seventh positive Influenza A(H1N1) case, involving an Australian student who is in the country with her mother to visit their relatives.

Pas Muktamar: Nasharudin wins

AIR FRANCE CRASH: French sub joins frustrating search for debris
An intense sea operation to find the remains of an Air France jet that plunged into the Atlantic this week was being bolstered after days of fruitless searching, officials said Friday.

Formula One: Button on Monaco pole after Hamilton crashes
World championship leader Jenson Button grabbed pole position for Sunday’s Monaco Grand Prix with a perfectly-timed hot lap in the final seconds of qualifying.

Reinstate EPF computer scheme, urges Shaziman
TAMPIN: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has been asked to review the discontinued Employees' Provident Fund withdrawal scheme for computer purchases.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

Leptospirosis outbreak in Juru detention centre
One dead and 26 hospitalised after contracting contagious disease transmitted by the urine of infected animals at the Juru detention centre in an outbreak of canicola fever.

Pas president retains position unopposed
DATUK Seri Abdul Hadi Awang has returned as Pas president for the 2009-2011 term unopposed, the party's election committee chairman Datuk Mustafa Ali announced today.

Congress-led Alliance scores historic win in Indian elections
NEW DELHI, Sat: The Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) has won overwhelmingly in the 15th Lok Sabha elections and anchored itself comfortably to form the next government.

Six charged with insulting Perak ruler
KUALA LUMPUR: Six people were simultaneously charged at four locations nationwide yesterday with posting offensive comments insulting the Sultan of Perak on the Internet -- the first such case in the country.

Bukit Antarabangsa Tragedy: Residents slam 'selfish' politicians
KUALA LUMPUR: Political parties have been criticised for taking advantage of the landslide in Bukit Antarabangsa to promote their cause rather than offering help to the victims.

Port Klang Free Zone Scandal: Tee Keat puts job on the line
SHAH ALAM: Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat said yesterday any future decisions made on the Port Klang Authority and the Port Klang Free Zone project would be in the interests of the people, even if it cost him his political career.

Police nab eight, use tear gas to break illegal demonstration
Eight people were arrested for participating in an illegal demonstration in the city today.

Pump prices down by 15 sen
PUTRAJAYA: Malaysians can expect to enjoy the pre-June petrol price of RM1.92 if cuts in pump prices continue following the sharp decline in global crude oil prices.

ALTANTUYA MURDER TRIAL: Affidavit saved Razak Baginda
SHAH ALAM: Abdul Razak Baginda's bail affidavit proved pivotal in his acquittal yesterday.

ALTANTUYA MURDER TRIAL: Witnesses let off despite conflicts in testimonies
SHAH ALAM: Witnesses Lance Corporal Rohaniza Roslan and Deputy Superintendent Yusri Hasan Basri, who had given conflicting evidence in their testimonies and police statements, were not impeached.

Updated: Perak Speaker suspends assembly secretary

Najib: BN may not contest Penanti by-election
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak does not rule out the possibility that the Barisan Nasional (BN) will not contest the by-election for the Penanti State constituency in Penang.

Bus operators want
100 per cent increase in fares
KUALA LUMPUR: Roti canai and teh tarik prices are down. Hypermarkets are slashing food prices. And more importantly, fuel prices are still coming down.

Najib: No plan for new universities
Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said today the government has no plan to set up new universities as the existing ones are sufficient to cater for the country's needs.

17 arrested; water cannons turned on unruly crowd
KUALA LUMPUR, Sat.: A crowd of more than 100 people turned up around 11am today at the Brickfields police station here to lodge police reports against the alleged mistreatment of ISA detainee, S. Uthayakumar, who is suffering from diabetes.

Perak PAC to enquire on use of state coffer
The Perak Public Accounts Committee (PAC) will hold an enquiry on Thursday to seek clarification on the use of the state coffer.

Umno General Assembly: Umno delegates “salam-ed” themselves to dubious largesse
A conversation was overheard in the hall before the president’s pre-assembly address. “Have you salam-ed with all my division delegates?” asked a division chief to a Umno leader contesting in the party’s elections.

PM to meet King on Thursday on power handover
Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi announced today that he will seek an audience with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin this Thursday to convey his intention to relinquish his post as Prime Minister.

Massive landslide in Bukit Antarabangsa
Four people were killed and more than eight others are feared buried in a landslide early today in Bukit Antarabangsa, Hulu Klang, near here. The landslide, which is believed to have buried 14 bungalows in Taman Bukit Mewah and Taman Bukit Utama, occurred at about 4am.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

Check with Wisma Putra
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians intending to travel to Mumbai are advised to contact the Foreign Ministry and the Malaysian consulate-general in Mumbai before proceeding with their travel plans following violent attacks in various parts of the Indian city.

Mumbai Terror: Malaysian woman ‘being held hostage’
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian Hemalatha Kassippillai is believed to be held by gunmen at the Taj Mahal hotel.

Mumbai Terror: Singaporean hostage killed
SINGAPORE: A Singaporean taken hostage during coordinated attacks across Mumbai has been killed, the Foreign Ministry said yesterday.

Mumbai Terror: World leaders condemn terror attacks on civilians
BEIJING: Leaders of many major countries and international organisations have strongly condemned the terror attacks in Mumbai, India, which killed at least 143 people and left many injured, China's Xinhua new agency reported.

Battle of Mumbai:
Final assault ends siege
MUMBAI: Black-clad Indian commandos storm a Jewish centre and comb two luxury hotels here for terrorists as they battle to release the remaining hostages. In dramatic scenes, commandos abseil from helicopters and snipers keep up heavy fire to distract the militants. Death toll in the terror attacks rises to 143, with 288 wounded. British millionaire Andreas Liveras is one of those killed.

Gun shock at power deal talks
KUALA LUMPUR: Is business in Malaysia looking down the barrel of a gun? Judging by what an independent power producer (IPP) tried to pull with a Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) subsidiary recently, it looks like it.

Selangor MB's counsel regrets MACC statement
SHAH ALAM: Counsel to Selangor Menteri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim questioned the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission chief's decision to single out the Menteri Besar to look guilty in the eyes of the public before he is charged or convicted in court.

Gaza Under Siege: UM does its bit for war victims
KUALA LUMPUR: Universiti Malaya has collected more than RM40,000 for Mercy Malaysia's Palestine Relief Fund.

Gaza Under Siege: YayasanAl-Bukhary contributes RM3.5m
KUALA LUMPUR: Yayasan Al-Bukhary yesterday donated RM3.5 million to Gaza war victims, the largest contribution in Malaysia so far.

Gaza Under Siege: Dr M urges govt to take a bold step
KUALA LUMPUR: Parliament should have the courage to unanimously agree to raise a motion to set up a tribunal against Israel at the United Nations General Assembly.

Khalid, Elizabeth Wong meets at MB's residence
Selangor Menteri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim and Bukit Lanjan assemblywoman Elizabeth Wong met today over her position as the state Tourism, Consumer Affairs and Environment Committee chairman.

Reinstate EPF computer scheme, urges Shaziman
TAMPIN: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has been asked to review the discontinued Employees' Provident Fund withdrawal scheme for computer purchases.

Modified NGV tank explodes, trader dies
A trader died after his van exploded while he was filling up his modified NGV tank at the petrol station at Jalan Datuk Seri Md Zin Abd Ghani, Batu Berendam, here, on Friday night.

Home Ministry to appeal against court decision to free Raja Petra
The Home Ministry will appeal against yesterday’s court decision to free Malaysia Today blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin from detention under the Internal Security Act (ISA).

Umno nominations: Ali Rustam makes the cut for veep race
Malacca Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam became eligible to contest the Umno deputy presidency at the party’s polls in March next year when his total nominations met the 39 nominations quota needed to do so today.

Najib’s nomination in Pekan doesn’t affect power transition
The nomination of Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak as the candidate for the Umno presidency at the delegates meeting of the Pekan Umno division today will not affect the power transition process in March.

I'm still a Malay despite using English, says Dr M
KUALA LUMPUR: Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad defended the use of English to teach Science and Mathematics, saying it is necessary to ensure Malaysia can keep up with the rest of the world.

Norza faces 20 years' jail if found guilty
TEMERLOH: The stress of being charged in court for alleged corruption involving money politics proved too much for Datuk Mohamad Norza Zakaria yesterday.

ALTANTUYA MURDER TRIAL: I expected verdict, says Shaariibuu
SHAH ALAM: Abdul Razak Baginda's acquittal was a bitter pill to swallow for Dr Shaariibuu Setev, who expressed his disappointment, frustration and anger.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

Drivers to bear fine for offenders below 17
KUALA LUMPUR: If rear-seat passengers under the age of 17 are not buckled up, the car driver will be fined for the offence.

Najib assures Bumis, Malays of their rights
The 1Malaysia concept will not compromise the rights of the Malays and Bumiputeras, including those in Sabah and Sarawak.

Perak Sultan's right to remove Nizar, says court
PUTRAJAYA: The sultan of Perak was right in removing Datuk Seri Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin as menteri besar.

Bridge to link eastern Johor to Singapore proposed
A NEW bridge linking eastern Johor to Singapore. A wellness centre and mixed township development. A Singapore consular office in Johor Baru.

A PREMIER VOW... 'No one will be left out'
KUALA LUMPUR: The newly-installed Najib administration hit the ground running last night, lifting the suspensions of two publications, freeing 13 detainees (see page 14) and announcing a review of the Internal Security Act.

FATWA ON PENGKID: Jakim clears the air
EXACTLY one month ago, the National Fatwa Council made a decision against women who dressed like men, denouncing it as haram. This has been met with anger, protest, and mainly, confusion, as to what exactly it is that the fatwa condemns. ANIZA DAMIS speaks to Malaysian Department of Islamic Development (Jakim) director-general Datuk Wan Mohamad Sheikh Abd Aziz to get a clearer picture of the issue.

Run-up to K. Terengganu by-election: 'Do not let rifts wreck Pakatan's chances'
GEORGE TOWN: The DAP has asked Parti Keadilan Rakyat and Pas to keep internal rivalry at state-level to the minimum or risk the Pakatan Rakyat's chances in the Kuala Terengganu parliamentary by-election.

Run-up to K. Terengganu by-election: Both pledge a clean fight
KUALA TERENGGANU: The Pakatan Rakyat and Barisan Nasional candidates for the Kuala Terengganu parliamentary by-election have pledged to be gentlemen during the campaign, with no mud-slinging or character assassinations.

Stop acting like hero, Kapar MP told
KLANG: Is Kapar member of parliament S. Manikavasagam merely testing the waters to gauge his popularity or fighting for a cause which he truly believes in?

Former Sabah minister gets six months' jail for gun threat
KOTA KINABALU: Former Sabah minister Datuk Conrad Mojuntin was yesterday sentenced to six months' jail for threatening a karaoke outlet owner at gunpoint three years ago.

Bank insiders helping to drain accounts?
PUTRAJAYA: Funds from 60 to 70 bank accounts are allegedly being siphoned off monthly, raising fears that insiders are working hand in glove with fraudsters.

Influenza A: Student is country's first case
PUTRAJAYA: The country's first case of influenza A has been detected after a student, who returned from the United States, tested positive for the virus at Sungai Buloh Hospital yesterday morning.

Umno General Assembly: I will continue to speak up: Muhyiddin
KUALA LUMPUR: He was both celebrated and chastised for vocally demanding for Umno to make drastic changes in the leadership.

'Release of Hindraf trio proves govt is fair'
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak brushed off allegations that the release of three Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) leaders was to counter negative perceptions over the Perak state assembly fracas.

'We will ensure Mas Selamat does not escape'
PUTRAJAYA: Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein yesterday confirmed that alleged militant, Mas Selamat Kastari, who escaped detention in Singapore last year, is being held under the Internal Security Act.

Raja Nazrin: A lawless system breeds a lawless culture
Raja Muda Perak Raja Dr Nazrin Shah tells youth to reject links with people and organisations promoting violence... the need to uphold the rule of law and respect for institutions established through and in accordance with the law... as peaceful and harmonious coexistence among the people of a nation and the world cannot prevail under a state of lawlessness.

Why Shahrizat changed her mind
KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil said she would have stuck to her decision not to contest against Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz if the Wanita Umno chief's leadership transition plan had not departed from its original premise.

Fatwa council says NO to yoga
Muslims in Malaysia should not practice yoga because it will erode their faith in Islam, a senior Islamic cleric said today.

Umno General Assembly: 'Najib and Muhyiddin complement each other'
KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi described his successor Datuk Seri Najib Razak and party deputy president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin as a good combination that would complement each other.

'Time ripe for Pas and Umno to seek fresh start'
KUALA KRAI: It will be a fresh beginning for Umno and Pas if the two parties could work together in the interest of the rakyat.

Girls top varsity intake
PUTRAJAYA: Female undergraduates continue to dominate local universities if this year’s number of successful applicants is anything to go by.

Stimulants, fake Viagra worth millions seized
KUALA LUMPUR: Authorities scored a major success against drug syndicates when they intercepted a shipment of pseudoephedrine pills worth millions of ringgit at Port Klang recently.

H1N1 virus: 8 cases in 24 hours brings total to 35
KUALA LUMPUR: Eight new cases of influenza A (H1N1) were detected in the last 24 hours and a school in Kuching has been temporarily closed after one of its students developed flu symptoms.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

Sungai Buloh folk told to vacate their homes
SUNGAI BULOH: Residents of 12 double-storey terrace houses in Sungai Buloh Country Resort have been ordered to vacate their homes today to allow reinforcement of the unstable slope behind their homes.

Call to end Damansara 21 project for good
KUALA LUMPUR: Residents of Medan Damansara want the hillside development on Damansara 21 to be scrapped and not just put on hold.

Order to strengthen slopes at three sites
PUTRAJAYA: The Federal Territories Ministry has suspended three hillside housing projects in Kuala Lumpur because they are located in high-risk areas.

Die Hard actor Willis sues Petra Group, Tunku Imran
KUALA LUMPUR: Bruce Willis, star of the popular Die Hard movies, has sued Malaysia's Petra Group and its chairman, Tunku Imran Ibni Tuanku Ja'afar, to recoup US$900,000 (RM3.27 million) which he claims he is owed by the company.

Cops not protecting Bala, says Syed Hamid
KUALA LUMPUR: The Attorney-General's Chambers is studying the possibility of charging private investigator P. Balasubramaniam with giving a false statement.

Rafidah: 'Transition plan is null and void'
KUALA LUMPUR: Wanita Umno's leadership transition plan slated for June is now history.

Wanita Umno challenge:
Kamilia dares Shahrizat to a showdown
IPOH: Datuk Kamilia Ibrahim has thrown down the gauntlet to Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil.

Reinstate EPF computer scheme, urges Shaziman
TAMPIN: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has been asked to review the discontinued Employees' Provident Fund withdrawal scheme for computer purchases.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

INFLUENZA A: NIPPPing it in the bud
One local transmission of the H1N1 virus will be reason enough for schools and other institutions of learning to be closed in the affected area.

INFLUENZA A: Malaysia confirms 12th case
The latest victim is a 19-year-old student from a private institution of higher learning in Malaysia who was on holiday in Melbourne, Australia for 17 days from May 24.

Emergency sitting of Perak assembly can't be held: Najib
Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said today the Perak State Assembly Speaker cannot call an emergency sitting because the court has yet to make a decision on the status of the government in the state.

Ruler concerned over quarrels among Malays
PETALING JAYA: Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah yesterday expressed disappointment over the action of a certain group of Malays who continued to question the positions of Malays and Malay rulers when these were enshrined in the Constitution.

Fish importers back in business
Local distributors and importers of fish from neighbouring countries who had suspended operations since Tuesday were back in business today.

PM: Fast decision on Maths, Science issue imperative
Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi wants an immediate decision to be made on the use of English in the teaching and learning of Mathematics and Science to prevent a bigger issue from cropping up.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

Thai PM apologises to Asean and dialogue partners
Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has apologised to Asean leaders as well as Asean dialogue partners who had arrived here for the 14th Asean Summit and related summits today only to find that their meetings had to be cancelled because of potential threats to their safety following the presence of unruly demonstrators.

EPF: Union slams idea of EPF monthly pension scheme
KUALA LUMPUR: The Employees Provident Fund should not be converted into a monthly pension scheme, said the National Union of Bank Employees.

Drivers to bear fine for offenders below 17
KUALA LUMPUR: If rear-seat passengers under the age of 17 are not buckled up, the car driver will be fined for the offence.

Drivers to bear fine for offenders below 17
KUALA LUMPUR: If rear-seat passengers under the age of 17 are not buckled up, the car driver will be fined for the offence.

Malaysian missing in Mumbai: Husband desperately looking for wife after siege
Four days after his wife went missing in Mumbai’s worst terrorist attack, security company manager K. Sivakumaran has begun frantically to find her.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

Latest Bukit Antarabangsa landslide: 2,000 allowed to return home
Two thousand residents who had to evacuate because of the recent Bukit Antarabangsa landslide are going home.

'President Obama praises Malaysia's uniqueness'
KUALA LUMPUR: The issue of the state of the economy was among matters discussed between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak and United States President Barack Obama during a 20-minute telephone conversation last night.

President Obama to consider Malaysia's request for Gitmo duo
KUALA LUMPUR: United States President Barack Obama has stated his willingness to consider a request by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak to hand over two Malaysians held at Guantanamo Bay to Malaysia.

Michael Jackson 1958-2009: Speculation as curtain comes down
LOS ANGELES: Speculation mounted yesterday that Michael Jackson's fatal heart attack might have been brought on by an injection of painkilling drugs after a rehearsal for the pop star's comeback concerts in London, dubbed "the final curtain".

Whose story is our history?
At last month's Umno general assembly, incoming party vice-president Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein floated the prospect of revisiting how history is taught in the nation's schools. The suggestion immediately raised eyebrows among Umno's partners-in-governance, with the MCA pledging to convene a conference on the matter. CHOK SUAT LING, SHERIDAN MAHAVERA, SITI NURBAIYAH NADZMI and YONG HUEY JIUN explore what may have fallen through the cracks of this country's historical mosaic as it is presented in the school curriculum.

Popularising 1Malaysia concept
SUBANG: It was only on Thursday that Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim was appointed information, communications, arts and culture minister, and yesterday, he was already thinking about the creation of a nation-building segment or column in the media.

Greater flying comfort since Monday
SEPANG: International passengers arriving at the low-cost carrier terminal at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport will experience a better and more spacious area as the new international arrival hall opened for operation on Dec 15.

Malaysia Airports will build low-cost terminal
PUTRAJAYA: The proposed RM1.6 billion low-cost carrier terminal (LCCT) project in Labu by AirAsia Berhad is as good as off.

Dr M welcomes move to defer privatisation
KUALA LUMPUR: Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is glad the government has decided to defer the privatisation of the National Heart Institute (IJN).

Doctors: Higher salary demands not true
KUALA LUMPUR: The consultants employed by the National Heart Institute (IJN) are not threatening to leave or demanding higher salaries.

Nizar holds Exco meeting, approves four new policies
Former Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin held an Exco meeting at the MB's official residence today.

FORMULA ONE: Button grabs pole for Spanish GP
Championship leader Jenson Button of Britain, in a Brawn GP, topped qualifying today to secure pole position for the Formula One Spanish Grand Prix

Perak assembly set meeting for May 7
IPOH: Breaking the silence over the date for the next state legislative meeting, the secretary for the Perak Legislative Assembly has issued letters informing all 59 state assemblymen that they are to meet on May 7, six days shy of the six-month deadline for the meeting.

7 rehab centre escapees nabbed; 20 still at large
THE police have rounded up seven of 27 inmates who escaped from a drug rehabilitation centre in Kampung Selamat, Seberang Perai Utara, Penang during a riot last night.

Stop it now, corrupt court staff warned
KUCHING: Chief Justice Tan Sri Zaki Azmi has first-hand experience of having to face corruption problems in the court.

Zambry: People will see the truth now
SLIM RIVER: The truth has prevailed, said Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir after the Court of Appeal had yesterday decided to reinstate him as the legitimate chief executive of Perak.

Toll hike put off
* Cabinet reverses decision to increase toll for five major highways just a day after announcement.
* Toll hike deferred indefinitely to ease burden of rakyat during current economic slowdown.
* Government will now have to pay compensation to toll concessionaires, estimated at RM287 million.

PM: Malaysians will support my actions
KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Najib Razak said Barisan Nasional, including top Umno leaders as well as the Malays, are supportive of the various liberalisation measures he has announced since taking over as prime minister on April 3.

PKR tells DAP to go their own way
KUALA LUMPUR: Senior members of Parti Keadilan Rakyat went on the attack against DAP yesterday, worsening a breach among the Pakatan Rakyat allies.

King calls on RMAF to produce highly skilled personnel
Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin today called on the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) to continue developing its human capital to mould highly skilled officers and personnel.

'Proton needs foreign partner'
KUALA LUMPUR: The government is still open to the idea of a strategic foreign partner for Proton Holdings Bhd but it has to be on the right terms and conditions, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

Bus operators want
100 per cent increase in fares
KUALA LUMPUR: Roti canai and teh tarik prices are down. Hypermarkets are slashing food prices. And more importantly, fuel prices are still coming down.

Proposed changes to laws on conversion: Rulers to discuss cabinet decision
PUTRAJAYA: Amendments to laws to accommodate the cabinet’s decision on conversion to Islam will be discussed by the Rulers’ Council on Monday.

H1N1: Seven new cases, total 112
PENANG, Sat: Seven more cases of Influenza A(H1N1) were detected as of 8am today, raising to 112 the cumulative number of cases in the country, Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said.

School reopens after flu shutdown
There was much activity at Sekolah Rendah Jenis Kebangsaan (C) Jalan Davidson today when it reopened after a week's shutdown following local transmission of the Influenza A(H1N1) virus at the school.

Other sources for maids if Indonesian ban stays
KANGAR, Sat: Malaysia will find a new source to replace Indonesian domestic helpers if the republic is firm in its decision to stop sending its citizens to work as maids in Malaysia.

Housemen lack basic know-how
KUALA LUMPUR: Some medical universities, both local and overseas, are churning out doctors who cannot carry out common medical procedures, have no proper clinical exposure, cannot communicate effectively and cannot even take down the history of patients properly for diagnosis and treatment.

Raja Nazrin on role of rulers and justice
KUCHING: The rulers should not agree with advice given by government leaders that goes against the spirit of the Constitution, rule of law and universal principles of justice.

Zaki: Two retired judges suspected to be corrupt
KUCHING: Two retired judges were suspected to be corrupt, Chief Justice Tan Sri Zaki Azmi said yesterday.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

MALAYSIAN PRODUCTS: Give local producers a chance
SUBANG JAYA: The time is ripe for Malaysians to throw their support behind local products.

KT BY-ELECTION: 37 polling centres opened, candidates cast votes in KT by-election
A total of 143 voting channels in 37 polling centres were opened from 8am today to enable 80,229 electorates to cast their votes for the Kuala Terengganu parliamentary by-election.

KT BY-ELECTION: Smooth polls in KT, 42 per cent have voted
A total of 42 per cent have voted since 8am and half of them are the younger generation. Polls are going smoothly without any untoward incident, said Elections Commission chairman.

KT BY-ELECTION: 61.5 per cent turnout by 2pm
A total of 61.49 per cent of the total electorates have cast their votes in the Kuala Terengganu parliamentary by-election as of 2pm.

KT By-Election: EC chairman confident no phantom voters
Election Commission (EC) chairman Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Mohd Yusof is confident that there were no phantom voters at the Kuala Terengganu by election and urged those with information to inform the commission

Zambry pulls out of Umno supreme council race
Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir has pulled out of the contest for the post of Umno Supreme Council member to enable him to concentrate on the state’s development.

'KLIA East @ Labu’ gets government go-ahead: Airport part of 'massive city'
KUALA LUMPUR: The cabinet has given the green light for a new low-cost carrier terminal on a 2,800-hectare site in Labu, Negri Sembilan, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat said.

IJN takeover bid put off
PUTRAJAYA: The proposed takeover of the National Heart Institute (IJN) by conglomerate Sime Darby Bhd has been postponed pending a study.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

Ali faces dead-end, decision on Norza, Azalina soon
KUALA LUMPUR: The Umno appeals panel has upheld the disciplinary board's decision to bar Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam from contesting the Umno deputy president's post at next Thursday's party election.

PPP's Murugiah explains meeting with PM Najib
IPOH, Sat: People's Progressive Party (PPP) supreme council member, Datuk T. Murugiah, said today he had given an explanation to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak for fear that the accusations against him (Murugiah) would tarnish the image of the government.

Bus operators want
100 per cent increase in fares
KUALA LUMPUR: Roti canai and teh tarik prices are down. Hypermarkets are slashing food prices. And more importantly, fuel prices are still coming down.

Kuala Terengganu by-election: Wan Ahmad -- I have the X-factor to win
PUTRAJAYA: Senator Datuk Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh, the man who is touted to carry Barisan Nasional's flag in the Kuala Terengganu by-election, said his "X-factor" could help secure a victory.

Kuala Terengganu by-election: BN to discuss polls on Tuesday
KUALA LUMPUR: Barisan Nasional will kick off its preparations for the Kuala Terengganu by-election on Jan 17 with a supreme council meeting on Tuesday.

Kuala Terengganu by-election: BN ready for Jan 17 by-election, says Najib
KUALA TERENGGANU: The Barisan Nasional machinery is prepared for the Kuala Terengganu by-election on Jan 17.

Bus operators want
100 per cent increase in fares
KUALA LUMPUR: Roti canai and teh tarik prices are down. Hypermarkets are slashing food prices. And more importantly, fuel prices are still coming down.

Bus operators want
100 per cent increase in fares
KUALA LUMPUR: Roti canai and teh tarik prices are down. Hypermarkets are slashing food prices. And more importantly, fuel prices are still coming down.

IPF embroiled in crisis
The Indian Progressive Front (IPF), which claims to have some 300,000 Malaysian Indian members, plunged into a crisis after the Registrar of Societies declared as void the election of Puan Sri Jayashree Pandithan as party president on 14 Dec, 2008. Among others, Registrar Datuk Md Alias Kalil, in a letter to the party dated Jan 30, 2009, declared that the appointment of Jayashree was not in accordance with the Societies Act 1966.

Minister heckled by irate Subang resident over hillslope threat
For the second consecutive day, Works Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Zin Mohamed was involved in a drama with the public. This time he was interrupted by a Bukit Antarabangsa resident during a Press conference after opening the `Safe hill-site development’ seminar at a hotel here today.

Umno Youth by-elections machinery that starts first without new leader: KJ
KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin proposed today that the movement prepare in advance the election campaign machinery for the Bukit Gantang and Bukit Selambau by-elections without waiting for the winner of the youth chief’s election in late March.

Bus operators want
100 per cent increase in fares
KUALA LUMPUR: Roti canai and teh tarik prices are down. Hypermarkets are slashing food prices. And more importantly, fuel prices are still coming down.

Chor to see PM on PKFZ issue soon
Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Chor Chee Heung said he will be meeting Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak soon to explain his position in relation to the Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ) issue.

Kit Siang, 2 PKR leaders under probe for sedition
The police have opened an investigation on a DAP leader and two Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) leaders over delivery of speeches of an alleged seditious nature during the ongoing campaign in the Penanti state by-election, Penang police chief Datuk Ayub Yaakob said today.

Jaya Supermarket disaster: All 7 bodies recovered
After three days, search and rescue workers have stopped their operation at the collapsed section of the former Jaya Supermarket here with the recovery of the seventh body yesterday.

PKFZ report: Don't jump the gun, says Ong
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat today expressed his disappointment over suggestions by some opposition members that the Government should close down the Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ) to cut on losses.

Two Indonesians buried alive
MIRI: Two Indonesian workers were killed when a landslide destroyed a Shell petrol station in Jalan Miri-Pujut near Bukit Kanada early yesterday.

Drivers to bear fine for offenders below 17
KUALA LUMPUR: If rear-seat passengers under the age of 17 are not buckled up, the car driver will be fined for the offence.

Nizar, Ngeh allowed to attend Sultan of Perak banquet
Former Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Nizar Jamaluddin was allowed to attend the Perak royal banquet at Istana Iskandriah here despite concerns that he might be denied entry. Accompanying him is former Exco member Datuk Ngeh Koo Ham, who is the Perak DAP chairman.

Bus operators want
100 per cent increase in fares
KUALA LUMPUR: Roti canai and teh tarik prices are down. Hypermarkets are slashing food prices. And more importantly, fuel prices are still coming down.

Bus operators want
100 per cent increase in fares
KUALA LUMPUR: Roti canai and teh tarik prices are down. Hypermarkets are slashing food prices. And more importantly, fuel prices are still coming down.

Reinstate EPF computer scheme, urges Shaziman
TAMPIN: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has been asked to review the discontinued Employees' Provident Fund withdrawal scheme for computer purchases.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

ACA officers feel 'demoralised' over new salary scale
PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Agency officers are crying foul over the salaries they will be receiving when the agency becomes a commission in January.

Bar Council: Report them to ACA
KUALA LUMPUR: Bar Council chairman Datuk Ambiga Sreenivasan said the judiciary should lodge a report with the Anti-Corruption Agency against the two retired judges for alleged graft.

Anti-graft body based on HK, Aussie models
KUCHING: The much-awaited formation of the Malaysian Commission on Anti-Corruption (MCAC) was endorsed by the cabinet yesterday and is expected to be passed by Parliament at the current meeting.

ACA begins probe into copter purchase deal
The Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) has begun an investigation into the deal for the proposed purchase of Eurocopter EC725 Cougar helicopters to replace the Nuri helicopters, ACA director-general Datuk Seri Ahmad Said Hamdan said today.

Gaza Under Siege: Israel must heed UN call, says Najib
KUALA TERENGGANU: Malaysia hopes Israel will respect a United Nations resolution that calls for an immediate ceasefire to its aggression in Gaza, which has killed more than 700 Palestinians.

Gaza Under Siege: Boycott US goods, greenback , says Nik Aziz
KOTA BARU: Kelantan Menteri Besar Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat yesterday called on the people to boycott American products and to stop using US dollars to show their protest against Israel's attacks on Gaza.

'There is evidence Khalid misused powers'
GEORGE TOWN: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has found "good and strong evidence" to show that Selangor Menteri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim had misused his powers over the maintenance of his personal car and purchase of 46 cows.

MIC sacks Muthu, ex-veep calls action an 'eyewash'
Former MIC vice-president Datuk M. Muthupalaniappan's plan to challenge Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu for the party presidency was dashed after he was summarily expelled from the party today.

Money politics offenders can't contest Umno polls
Umno members charged in court for money politics will not be eligible to contest in the party polls, Umno Deputy President Datuk Seri Najib Razak said today.

Five problem National Service camps closed
Five National Service camps – one each in Kedah, Penang, Terengganu, Pahang and Sabah - have been closed due to infrastructure defects and cleanliness issues during the current training session.

MIRI LANDSLIDE UPDATE: Search for third victim presumed buried
The search is still on for the third victim presumed buried in last night’s landslide at a timber camp near Medamit, about 130km from Limbang town. Sarawak Disaster Management Committee chairman Tan Sri Dr George Chan said this to clarify an earlier report that the body of a worker was recovered about 1pm today.

Relief for the retrenched
KUALA LUMPUR: There is good news for retrenched workers. The Human Resources Ministry will find replacement jobs for them within a month after they have registered with the Labour Department.

PM GONG XI FA CHAI MESSAGE: Malaysians must remain united to face economic downturn
The various races in the country must continue to keep united and cooperate with each other in facing current challenges, especially with the whole world experiencing an economic downturn, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

Four in a family killed in three-car collision
Four members of a family were killed, a child was critically injured and eight others suffered minor injuries in an accident that involved three vehicles at Batu 4 1/2, Jalan Langgar - Alor Star, here today.

My decision to step down stands, says Fairus
KUALA LUMPUR: Former Penang deputy chief minister I Mohammad Fairus Khairuddin says his resignation as the Penanti assemblyman stands.

Fairus has resigned and that's final, says speaker
GEORGE TOWN: State legislative assembly Speaker Abdul Halim Hussein said yesterday as far as he was concerned, Mohammad Fairus Khairuddin had resigned as Penanti state assemblyman and that a by-election must be held.

Manoharan to give 'quit' decision on May 19
Kota Alam Shah assemblyman M.Manoharan, who is being detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA), today confirmed that he is thinking of vacating his seat.

CNY: Splash of red in malls to welcome bright new year
KUALA LUMPUR: Red -- the colour of prosperity and good fortune -- is dominating shopping malls in the city this year as they vie for attention in the run-up to Chinese New Year.

ALTANTUYA MURDER TRIAL: I'm grateful to God, says Razak
SHAH ALAM: Abdul Razak Baginda spent about an hour at a mosque after his acquittal yesterday.

Najib: New economic model being developed
The government is making efforts to develop a new economic model for Malaysia which among others will emphasise raising the workers' productivity to help them earn higher incomes, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

Gaza Under Siege: Malaysia condemns Israeli atrocities
KUANTAN: Tears flowed at the Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP) mosque here when 1,500 gathered for Friday prayers yesterday.

NSTP Fund For Gaza: Anita does her part for Palestinians
KUALA LUMPUR: Anita Sarawak dropped by at The New Straits Times office in Bangsar yesterday with a "large sum" for NSTP's Fund for Gaza and a "brilliant" suggestion to enable ordinary Malaysians donate to the Gazans.

NSTP Fund For Gaza: Donations to be tax-exempt
KUALA LUMPUR: Donations to The New Straits Times Bhd's "Fund for Gaza" will be tax-exempt.