Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

Government

Scam

Money

Awareness

Anwar Ibrahim

Phishing

Cash Aid

Starting today (17 January 2023), the Malaysian government will begin Phase 1 of the Submangan Tunai Rahman (STR) cash aid program. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim revealed that the government has allocated a total of RM1.67 billion under phase 1 and the disbursements will benefit around 8.7 million people from the B40 group.
According to the breakdown posted by Anwar Ibrahim on his official Facebook page, RM300 in cash aid will be distributed to a total of 4 million households. Single individuals and senior citizens with no partners will receive RM100 in cash aid.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b551599dbe84c50b28cb60c2850fcfc80a7443aee163d4b11316f1840634ec57" />
Those eligible recipients of the STR cash aid will get the money credited into their registered bank accounts. However, those who don&rsquo;t have a bank account can redeem the cash aid at any Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) starting 17 January 2023.
The B40 cash aid programme under the Ministry of Finance was previously known as Bantuan Keluarga Malaysia (BKM) and it was recently rebranded to STR when the new Unity Government was formed. Anwar shared that this cash aid is to help defend the less fortunate, especially the poor and vulnerable.
Initially, Phase 1 of the STR was scheduled for March 2023 but Anwar had pushed it forward to this month as he wants to help ease the burden of the people. The programme covers those in Peninsular Malaysia as well as those living in rural areas in Sabah and Sarawak. For those wanting to check on their payment status, you can visit the <a href="https://bantuantunai.hasil.gov.my/">official STR portal</a>.
A Rise Of Cash Aid Scams
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/76cb1149ea0a0e4f43f01d11c61df8cd3e7cebaa396328d992efa2cc2e5af345" />
With the cash aids set to roll out, it&rsquo;s advised that the citizens have to be on high alert as we have an increase of scammers who pose as individuals or authorised agents who trick Malaysians into giving them their details.
The most common type of scam out there is when scammers send out a fake link that phishes for your data such as your username, password and at your OTP. From there, scammers will be given access to login to your eWallet app or even your bank account.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/MyTouchnGo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MyTouchnGo</a> Alerting you! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/scammeralert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#scammeralert</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/touchngo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#touchngo</a> <a href="https://t.co/yPdVMmow7u">pic.twitter.com/yPdVMmow7u</a>
&mdash; Nora_Z (@SuaraPeribadi) <a href="https://twitter.com/SuaraPeribadi/status/1585521902638206976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2022</a>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</blockquote>
Scammers also tend to use big names such as Bursa Malaysia to try and lure victims in their &ldquo;get-rich-quick&rdquo; scheme.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
[SCAM ALERT] Bursa Malaysia would like to remind the public to be wary of get-rich-quick schemes. Scammers are known to misuse the Bursa Malaysia logo and even the image of licensed financial planners to dupe victims into depositing funds into their bogus investment scheme. <a href="https://t.co/QqdUCW7OkM">pic.twitter.com/QqdUCW7OkM</a>
&mdash; Bursa Malaysia Bhd (@BursaMalaysia) <a href="https://twitter.com/BursaMalaysia/status/1613111315849150465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2023</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Digital Minister Teo Nie Ching revealed that almost RM600 million has been lost throughout 2022 due to cybercrime. With the issue being of top concern for the country, the ministry will be shifting its focus towards educating the public to become more digitally literate.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/05d2b518891123d95418746d8910996a2ff8a1ebcecf9f048044179e874e5de5" />
A program called &ldquo;Stop For Three Seconds&rdquo; is targeted to launch in February and March 2023 and the ministry will be looking to work with online platforms such as TikTok to help promote it. They want to make sure that the community is able to identify both authentic and fake information.
For those who have been scammed, it is advised to contact the <a href="https://nfcc.jpm.gov.my/index.php">National Scam Response Centre (NSRC)</a> by dialling 997 as soon as possible. Bank Negara states that there&rsquo;s a high chance of recovering your money within the first 24 hours as it is considered a floating transaction.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/2057/msian-recovers-up-to-95percent-of-his-savings-after-it-got-stolen">M&rsquo;sian Recovers Up To 95% Of His Savings After It Got Stolen</a>
What are your thoughts on the cash aid and the actions of the current government? Let us know in the comments.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media, Anwar Ibrahim, NSRC &amp; various cross-references for context.
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While cash aid is being distributed, Malaysians should also keep an eye out for scams.

3371db52483a26e7d9b51b237398aec5c38622d9ee363355c333e7947dcc18e8

Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah To Start Crediting Cash Aid To B40 Malaysians Starting Today

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Scentify

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Oatside

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Rohto

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The Malaysian government has activated emergency evacuation plans for its citizens in Iran following the outbreak of armed conflict between Iran and Israel. As airstrikes and missile attacks enter their sixth consecutive day, Putrajaya has called on all Malaysians in the Islamic Republic to leave immediately, citing an increasingly volatile and dangerous situation.
From Surprise Strikes to Escalating Retaliation
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7b512dbfbc40c156442a59e2b78176e778fae075d8d95fd2d7acd4bf06ede843" />
The current crisis began on Friday, 13 June 2025, when Israel launched an unannounced aerial offensive dubbed Operation Rising Lion targeting Iranian territory. The attacks reportedly killed several high-ranking Iranian military officers and nuclear scientists. The strikes came without prior warning and marked a significant escalation in hostilities between the two long-standing adversaries.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Massive bombing of Iranian missiles hits Israel in retaliation for the Israeli attack on Iranian territory early June 13.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/iranisraelwar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#iranisraelwar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraeliranWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IsraeliranWar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaFamilia15J?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaFamilia15J</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vecinos15J?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vecinos15J</a> <a href="https://t.co/hjo8kxn6TQ">pic.twitter.com/hjo8kxn6TQ</a>
&mdash; Alisa Stewart (@AlisaStewart97) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlisaStewart97/status/1934331285289443641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In retaliation, Iran responded with Operation True Promise 3 on 14 June, unleashing a barrage of ballistic missiles on multiple sites across Israel. The exchange of hostilities has continued into its sixth day, fuelling fears of a wider regional war and prompting foreign governments to begin pulling out their nationals.
Malaysia Urges Citizens to Leave Iran Immediately
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ee939d5710d4a353b81a5ac07992b2f7be788394795403c96ebe8af1d1b395bd" />
On 17 June, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Wisma Putra) issued a strongly worded statement urging all Malaysian citizens in Iran to exit the country without delay. The ministry emphasised that the situation was highly unpredictable and could escalate further with little or no warning.
&ldquo;All Malaysians currently in Iran are strongly urged to leave the country immediately using any safe and available means,&rdquo; the statement read. &ldquo;The safety and wellbeing of Malaysians remain the Ministry&rsquo;s top priority.&rdquo;
The advisory followed confirmation that the Israeli strikes had hit sensitive Iranian nuclear facilities, drawing international alarm and increasing the urgency for Malaysian authorities to act.
<iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FMOFAMalaysia%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0MJyaC5KwG6rXkGAzx2xA2DupPQCLmjrEjMCbmVHZrzCgttX1dQKX7JMA8N7RdNsnl&amp;show_text=true&amp;width=500" width="500" height="250" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Evacuation Underway, Citizens Expected to Leave by 20 June
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/18782eef14a8125d3f8002293a4d050a2e0a89782032ce3d4dc6988415a703b0" />
Speaking at a press conference on 18 June, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil confirmed that preparations for the evacuation were already in motion. He said that Malaysians in Iran, including embassy staff, students, and tourists, are expected to leave the country by Friday, 20 June.
&ldquo;There aren&rsquo;t too many Malaysian nationals in Iran, but the government has taken swift steps. Visa arrangements have been completed, and plans for their safe exit are in place,&rdquo; he said.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan also briefed the Cabinet on the situation, assuring that all individuals involved were being contacted and advised accordingly.
Embassy Support and Emergency Contacts in Place
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/435bcce6d3b182694bb439fcb8d9582ec75d646a37dd31cfc87121d764c73b0e" />
The Malaysian Embassy in Tehran remains operational and is providing full consular support to all registered Malaysians. The embassy has confirmed that all known citizens are currently safe and has urged them to maintain close communication as they prepare to depart.
Malaysians in Iran can reach out to the embassy for help through the following channels:
<ul>
<li>Telephone: +98 21 8807 2444 / +98 21 8807 8606 / +98 933 535 2602</li>
<li>Email: mwtehran@kln.gov.my / mwconsular.teh@gmail.com</li>
<li>Address: No. 25, 2nd Alley, North Zarafshan St, Shahrak-e-Gharb, Tehran</li>
</ul>
In Malaysia, concerned family members can contact the Foreign Ministry&rsquo;s operations room at +603 8887 4570 or email dutyofficer@kln.gov.my for updates.
IAEA Confirms Nuclear Facilities Were Targeted
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bd1b2d9c9c2b74ed5752a6aab505f8d2c4a54a185d5276ab17d4417ee79061cc" />
Adding to the severity of the situation, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that two Iranian nuclear component facilities had been struck during the Israeli offensive. These include the TESA Karaj centrifuge production plant and a building at the Tehran Nuclear Research Centre used for advanced rotor testing.
"At the Tehran site, a building involved in the manufacturing and testing of advanced centrifuge rotors was hit. In Karaj, two structures responsible for centrifuge component production were destroyed," the IAEA stated.
Both sites were previously under international monitoring as part of the 2015 nuclear agreement, which collapsed after the United States withdrew in 2018. Tehran has yet to release an official statement regarding the extent of the damage or any casualties.
Growing Regional and Global Alarm
The tit-for-tat missile strikes between Iran and Israel have reignited fears of a broader Middle Eastern conflict. Military analysts have warned that the targeting of high-ranking personnel and nuclear infrastructure represents a significant escalation, one that could potentially draw in other regional powers or trigger further unrest in an already fragile geopolitical landscape.
Malaysia's rapid diplomatic response reflects the seriousness with which the government views the unfolding crisis. While Malaysian citizens in Iran are currently safe, officials stress that the window for a secure evacuation may narrow if hostilities intensify.
Wisma Putra Calls for Vigilance and Swift Action
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reiterated that the safety of Malaysians abroad remains a core priority. In its advisory, Wisma Putra reminded all citizens that the security situation in Iran remains fluid and dangerous, with the potential to deteriorate further without warning.
&ldquo;All Malaysians are strongly urged to act quickly and leave Iran through any available means. The embassy in Tehran is doing everything possible to assist,&rdquo; the statement read.
With diplomatic channels remaining open and coordination ongoing, the government hopes to complete the evacuation process by the end of the week, barring any further complications from the evolving conflict.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Though their numbers are small, Datuk Fahmi Fadzil says all M’sians in Iran are urged to leave immediately.

6c1215e40d20b7c3bf1a419b35cdbf519d32ba5bd0b454bae56b2255981a160b

Malaysia Races To Evacuate Citizens As Iran-Israel Conflict Escalates Into Open Warfare

Despite being mandatory for most Malaysian workers, many contributors to the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) remain unaware of the full scope of benefits available to them. One such benefit is the Temporary Disablement Benefit (Faedah Hilang Upaya Sementara), which provides income support to workers who are temporarily unable to work due to accidents or injuries &mdash; even during their commute to or from the office.
A recent <a href="https://www.threads.com/@mikaylamajla/post/DK_G2VMSE97?xmt=AQF0E7z_Y0P-jZH1LGO6g_zDGOnxC3HNyQJYzS1CEXQjgA">viral post</a> by a Malaysian woman has highlighted just how effective and swift the claims process can be &mdash; if you know what steps to take.
A Freak Accident on the Way to Work
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4484df2bb9346e31e25e233bc62e2ee66411ef4130d7c73bb620e400d0fa9baf" />
The woman, a single mother, shared her experience on Threads, playfully beginning her post with: &ldquo;Who doesn&rsquo;t want free money??&rdquo; She went on to explain that she had fractured her foot after slipping into a roadside drain while dropping off her child at school &mdash; part of her usual journey to work.
&ldquo;It was kinda funny at first, but the pain was like death! I couldn&rsquo;t even stand,&rdquo; she wrote. Parents nearby helped carry her to the car, and her fianc&eacute; rushed her to a nearby clinic. The injury was so severe that a specialist later confirmed it required immediate surgery the very next day. Her X-ray showed seven fractures in her foot, including an avulsed peroneal tendon &mdash; a serious and painful injury.
Two Months of Recovery &ndash; And a PERKESO Lifeline
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fc4addafaf4db47dc1f1b08d72de2a2c2197f7bedb792f33387b7fdd41129f32" />
She was placed on two months&rsquo; medical leave and had to use a wheelchair and crutches during her recovery. Knowing she contributed to PERKESO via salary deductions, she investigated whether she qualified for the Temporary Disablement Benefit &mdash; and found that she did.
Crucially, PERKESO confirmed her eligibility despite the accident occurring while dropping her child at school and not yet being at her workplace. As it was part of her regular route to work, it counted as a valid commuting injury under PERKESO guidelines.
PERKESO then contacted her to verify her story. When asked why she didn&rsquo;t use public transport, she explained that as a single mother living in Bukit Damansara, owning a car was a necessity due to poor public transport access in her area.
Her claim was approved just four days after submitting the required documents.
Quick and Efficient Processing
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/490d416ad076a1824f7aa6affa0be418d57ede352dd05e22cf6bcbd7b8b728ac" />
She submitted her application at the PERKESO Jalan Tun Razak branch. Within five minutes, her number was called. The entire submission process took under 10 minutes.
The next day, she received a phone call for follow-up. By 13 June, the funds were deposited into her account. Her experience was so smooth that she praised PERKESO for their efficiency and even encouraged others to make use of their entitlements.
&ldquo;Thank you, PERKESO, for making things easier for this single mum,&rdquo; she said emotionally.
What Is Temporary Disablement Benefit?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/cddd2d8def74a52c392aaa1a3fb2cd82804758d0d51fe66da7015ffef8f0d80d" />
According to PERKESO&rsquo;s official site, the Temporary Disablement Benefit (HUS) provides daily income support of 80% of your average assumed daily wage. The payout ranges from a minimum of RM30 to a maximum of RM158.67 per day. You must receive medical leave of at least four days (including the day of the accident) to be eligible.
This benefit is part of PERKESO&rsquo;s broader Employment Injury Scheme, which also includes:
<ul>
<li>Medical Benefits</li>
<li>Permanent Disablement Benefit</li>
<li>Constant Attendance Allowance</li>
<li>Vocational and Physical Rehabilitation</li>
<li>Dependents&rsquo; Benefit</li>
<li>Funeral Management Allowance</li>
<li>Education Benefits for Children</li>
</ul>
Additionally, PERKESO also administers the Invalidity Scheme, which provides 24-hour protection in cases of illness or disability not related to work. It includes benefits such as:
<ul>
<li>Invalidity Pension</li>
<li>Invalidity Grant</li>
<li>Constant Attendance Allowance</li>
<li>Survivor&rsquo;s Pension</li>
<li>Rehabilitation Facilities</li>
<li>Dialysis, Return-To-Work Support</li>
<li>Funeral and Education Benefits</li>
</ul>
There is also the Employment Insurance System (SIP), which offers financial assistance to those who have lost their jobs under qualifying conditions.
How to Make a Claim: Required Documents
To ensure your claim goes smoothly, make sure you prepare and submit the following documents:
<ol>
<li>Form 34 (downloadable from the PERKESO website)</li>
<li>Copy of your NRIC</li>
<li>Original medical certificate (MC) &mdash; keep a second copy for yourself</li>
<li>Payslips from the six months prior to the accident</li>
<li>Attendance record for the month of the accident</li>
<li>Bank statement from a local bank</li>
<li>Police report lodged at a station near where the accident occurred</li>
<li>Hand-drawn route map from home to your workplace showing your travel path</li>
</ol>
You&rsquo;ll also need to get your HR department to sign and stamp Form 34 before submission.
She chose to walk in rather than submit her documents online, explaining that doing so allowed her to confirm everything was in order on the spot &mdash; and get a receipt as proof of submission.
Submit Within 3 Months &ndash; Or Risk Rejection
Importantly, she reminded others that all claims must be submitted within three months of the incident. Claims made after that period will not be entertained, regardless of the reason.
Don&rsquo;t Overlook Your Rights
She concluded her post with a simple message: &ldquo;This is your right. PERKESO is here to protect us workers. Just follow the steps and prepare your docs properly.&rdquo;
Whether you&rsquo;re injured at work, on your way there, or returning home &mdash; you may be entitled to benefits you never even knew existed.
For more information, visit the <a href="https://www.perkeso.gov.my">official PERKESO website</a>.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Unaware of PERKESO’s support? It’s time to know what you're entitled to.

82458a0bee3dc16f00a262d7f9161a5ba04d9504cecc98fece3604cdedaa43da

Know Your Rights: How A Single Mum's PERKESO Claim Was Approved In Just Four Days

Donald Trump&rsquo;s latest venture has sparked controversy once again &mdash; but this time, it&rsquo;s not politics, real estate, or golf courses. The former US President has officially entered the mobile phone and telco business through Trump Mobile, a newly launched MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) offering its own branded device &mdash; the gold-trimmed T1 Phone &mdash; and a 5G wireless subscription dubbed The 47 Plan.
A Telco Venture Built on Branding
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d07fcecefb84c755f2e46cceeb3457877169c4bb7e265c1cae7f6abb582d5734" />
Trump Mobile, operating as a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), leases bandwidth from major US carriers such as Verizon, AT&amp;T, and T-Mobile, rather than owning its own infrastructure. In other words, it resells existing mobile network capacity under a Trump-branded label &mdash; a business model seen with other celebrity ventures like Ryan Reynolds' Mint Mobile.
The service, priced at US$47.45/month (~RM201), offers unlimited calls, texts, and data &mdash; including international texting to 100 countries &mdash; alongside fringe benefits like 24/7 telemedicine, roadside assistance, and call centres based in the United States. The plan&rsquo;s name is a nod to Trump&rsquo;s tenure as both the 45th and current 47th President of the United States.
However, despite the heavy branding, the Trump Organisation has quietly distanced itself from direct involvement in the technical operations. According to the fine print on the Trump Mobile website, its products and services are &ldquo;not designed, developed, manufactured, distributed or sold&rdquo; by The Trump Organisation or its affiliates. Instead, the Trump name is licensed under DTTM Corporation &mdash; a pattern familiar from previous ventures like Trump Steaks and Trump University.
The T1 Phone: Flashy Exterior, Familiar Core
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/77dd79a1d9080d180426ee81b1ea73d76516431098b71380e6695160210da807" />
The centrepiece of the launch is the Trump Mobile T1 Phone, retailing at US$499 (~RM2,120). Marketed as &ldquo;proudly designed and built in the United States&rdquo;, the phone boasts a gold-coloured chassis, a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, AI Face Unlock, under-display fingerprint sensor, and a 5,000mAh battery with 20W charging.
Yet, experts quickly raised red flags. Not only is the phone missing key specifications, such as the processor or RAM details, but the memory and storage categories appear mislabelled &mdash; with &ldquo;12GB Storage&rdquo; under Processor, and &ldquo;256GB Memory&rdquo; listed elsewhere. The device also features a triple camera setup (50MP + 2MP + 2MP) and a 16MP front camera, USB-C 2.0, and even a rare 3.5mm headphone jack.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ec10fc856ba719f95d4f6d9dfed5deb014c237acd94170b303b288d928ad2442" />
Despite patriotic marketing, multiple analysts believe the device is simply a rebranded Chinese Android phone. Tech sleuths identified it as a customised version of the T-Mobile REVVL 7 Pro 5G, which is manufactured by Chinese firm Wingtech, now owned by Luxshare, and sold online for as little as US$169 (~RM718).
Made in America? Not Quite
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/99febe7eae0737a3a17855973fb359579768542e6945007006597389788f85a9" />
Though Trump Mobile claims the phone is built in the US, analysts and tech experts have called this highly improbable. Counterpoint Research&rsquo;s Blake Przesmicki wrote that &ldquo;despite being advertised as an American-made phone, it is likely that this device will be initially produced by a Chinese ODM (original design manufacturer).&rdquo;
In a CNBC interview, The Verge editor-in-chief Nilay Patel said bluntly: &ldquo;The only phone you could get for $499 by September is undoubtedly a rebranded Chinese Android phone.&rdquo;
Even Trump&rsquo;s own family seems unsure. Eric Trump stated in a podcast that the phones would &ldquo;eventually&rdquo; be made in the US &mdash; a claim met with widespread scepticism. A Trump Organisation spokesperson told The Wall Street Journal that manufacturing would take place in Alabama, California, and Florida, yet provided no evidence or contracts to back this claim.
Infrastructure Reality Check
Experts agree that full-scale smartphone production in the US is not currently feasible. As Tinglong Dai of Johns Hopkins University explained, &ldquo;There&rsquo;s absolutely no way you could make the screen, get that memory, camera, battery, everything&rdquo; in the US by this fall. The only partial exception is the Librem 5 USA from Purism &mdash; a phone that costs US$1,599 (~RM 6,795), lacks 5G or OLED displays, and is only partially assembled in the US.
Even Trump Mobile&rsquo;s promotional push underlines the contradiction: on one hand, the company boasts &ldquo;Made in USA&rdquo; branding, while on the other, the Trump Mobile website distances itself from actual design or manufacturing responsibilities.
The MVNO Gamble
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5253a32c1f678a60016f11005b80e3a2e81ed3278f35b28b3f250d576010ebd3" />
From a business standpoint, Trump Mobile faces long odds. MVNOs represent only 3&ndash;4% of the US wireless market, and they struggle with customer churn and profitability. Analyst Michael Ashley Schulman noted that unless Trump Mobile surpasses one million subscribers, its financial impact would be negligible, especially when compared to mainstream carriers or more affordable MVNOs like Mint Mobile.
The T1 Phone&rsquo;s $499 price tag also makes it less competitive against similarly spec&rsquo;d budget phones, especially when the same hardware appears on Amazon for a third of the price, albeit without Trump&rsquo;s gold branding.
Politics, Profit, and Potential Pitfalls
Critics argue that this is yet another example of Trump using the presidency to enrich his brand. Harvard law professor Lawrence Lessig noted, &ldquo;President Trump considers the presidency a vehicle to grow his family&rsquo;s wealth. Maybe this example will help more come to see this undeniable truth.&rdquo;
Financial disclosure documents reveal Trump earned over US$600 million from various ventures before his second term began &mdash; including licensing deals, golf resorts, and now, tech branding. Trump-related crypto projects alone have generated hundreds of millions since then.
Still, the Trump Organisation&rsquo;s track record with branded consumer goods is spotty at best. Failed ventures include Trump Vodka, Trump Steaks, Trump University, and Trump Ice &mdash; all now defunct.
Final Verdict?
Whether Trump Mobile and the T1 Phone succeed remains to be seen. For now, it appears to be a rebranded Chinese phone wrapped in American patriotism, sold alongside a mid-range telco subscription bolstered more by political identity than tech innovation.
At best, it&rsquo;s a flashy experiment in brand loyalty. At worst, it&rsquo;s another Trump-branded flop. What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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From turning heads to raising eyebrows — a bold launch by the Trump Organisation.

1cf00b4ed5ec06176b74f557824e54287abedd3ecfa45f54e1194ab4adcf1796

Trump Mobile Unveils RM2K ‘Made-in-USA’ Phone – Analysts Say It’s Chinese At Heart

Renowned Malaysian singer, actor, and songwriter Muhammad Na&rsquo;im Daniel Baharin &mdash; better known to fans as Naim Daniel &mdash; has pleaded not guilty to a charge of physically sexually assaulting a 17-year-old girl. The 28-year-old appeared at the Sessions Court in Putrajaya on the morning of 17 June 2025, following weeks of intense speculation and growing public scrutiny.
The charge relates to an incident said to have occurred on the evening of 19 May 2025 at around 8.56pm, at a hotel in Petaling Jaya, Selangor. According to court documents, Naim is alleged to have committed a sexual act for the purpose of sexual gratification without intercourse, categorised as &ldquo;physical sexual assault&rdquo; under Malaysian law.
Charged Under Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bff85cf7910fcd2db1a13bc48f311b3410691199b37025197e589d2150011305" />
The case has been filed under Section 14(a) of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017 (Act 792), a provision that specifically targets non-penetrative sexual offences against minors. If convicted, Naim could face a maximum of 20 years in prison and may also be subjected to corporal punishment in the form of whipping.
The case was heard before Judge Datin M. Kunasundary, with Deputy Public Prosecutor Nurul Izzah Shaharuddin leading the prosecution. Representing Naim were legal counsels Datuk Amirul Ridzuan Hanif and Mohd Irwan Sumadi.
The prosecution requested bail be set at RM15,000, with additional conditions including the surrender of Naim's international passport and strict orders preventing any contact with the alleged victim or prosecution witnesses. The court allowed bail at RM12,000 with one surety, but agreed to enforce the added conditions put forward by the prosecution.
Timeline of Events: From Arrest to Courtroom
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2ef08aaef591327a8defe8f83fd7d34e8f3f641d05d0a1d10b19121e28cbdfc1" />
News of the case began circulating earlier in June, when local media outlets reported that a male celebrity had been arrested in connection with the alleged assault of a teenage girl. Initial details were scarce, though reports suggested the suspect and the victim had been in contact for some time prior to the alleged incident.
On 3 June, police arrested Naim Daniel, who was released on police bail the following day after giving his statement. According to Bukit Aman CID Sexual, Women, and Child Investigation Division principal assistant director Senior ACP Siti Kamsiah Hassan, the actor first encountered the teenager at a caf&eacute; where she was employed. Over the following weeks, they reportedly maintained contact, culminating in a private meeting at a hotel in Petaling Jaya.
Following the arrest, speculation ran rampant online. Although authorities did not initially release the name of the suspect, netizens quickly zeroed in on Naim Daniel as the likely individual involved. Social media users cited his sudden silence on platforms and recent absence from the public eye as suspicious. When he finally appeared in court, it was seen as confirmation by many who had speculated about his involvement.
Court Appearance: Calm Demeanour Amidst Media Frenzy
Naim arrived at the courthouse in Putrajaya shortly before 9am, escorted by his mother in a white Mercedes-Benz. Dressed smartly and appearing composed, he greeted members of the press with a short &ldquo;Assalamualaikum, okay InshaAllah,&rdquo; before entering the court complex.
After the charges were read in a closed-door session, Naim formally entered a plea of not guilty. When later approached by the media outside the courtroom, he declined to go into detail, citing the early stage of the proceedings. However, he did offer a brief statement asserting his innocence and commitment to clearing his name.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Penyanyi, Naim Daniel ketika sidang media memaklumkan dia akan melawan tuduhan melakukan amang seksual keatas seorang remaja demi membersihkan namanya. <a href="https://t.co/BHbYmYRBM4">pic.twitter.com/BHbYmYRBM4</a>
&mdash; Buletin TV3 (@BuletinTV3) <a href="https://twitter.com/BuletinTV3/status/1934826482813259779?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&ldquo;I understand that this is a very serious accusation. I know many have questions, and some are even shocked by this. But as the matter is still at its beginning, I will not comment further to avoid interfering with the legal process. I leave everything in the hands of the justice system,&rdquo; he said.
Focus on Mental Health and Public Image
The Anugerah Juara Lagu (AJL) 34 winner said that he is currently prioritising his personal well-being amidst the intense public attention. &ldquo;For now, I want to focus on my health and inner peace. I appreciate those who&rsquo;ve expressed concern. I&rsquo;m doing well, Alhamdulillah, and I hope for everyone&rsquo;s prayers,&rdquo; he added.
Naim&rsquo;s legal team later confirmed that the bail amount of RM12,000 had been paid and that his passport had been handed over to the court as required. The next mention of the case has been scheduled for 18 August 2025 at the same court.
Public Reaction: Outrage, Disappointment, and Divided Support
The charges against Naim have sparked an emotional and polarised reaction among Malaysians. The public, especially on social media, has been vocal in expressing shock, dismay, and anger. Many expressed disappointment, given Naim&rsquo;s previously wholesome image and his popularity among younger audiences.
&ldquo;Projek: High Council,&rdquo; the drama in which Naim starred as Ayam, gained a cult following earlier this year. His involvement in various campaigns and youth-oriented programmes only amplified the backlash from those who feel betrayed by the allegations.
However, some fans have chosen to withhold judgment until the conclusion of the legal process. Supporters have called for due process to be respected, noting that an accusation does not equal guilt. A few even took to social media to wish him strength, using hashtags like #StayStrongNaim.
Here&rsquo;s some comments by netizens on social media:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
<a href="https://t.co/eHiAcKHZrF">pic.twitter.com/eHiAcKHZrF</a>
&mdash; Ayamas (@AyamasMerah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AyamasMerah/status/1934923384519028811?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2025</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Kesian Naim. Begitulah hidup lelaki. Masa sedap mengaku teman. Masa sebat tanggung seorang.
&mdash; Hafiz Adam Azlan (@hafizadam) <a href="https://twitter.com/hafizadam/status/1934901913411367248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2025</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Mcm naim ni boleh bawa budak perempuan bawah umur g hotel. Agak2 lah&hellip;
&mdash; a_h (@hawa_abdullah) <a href="https://twitter.com/hawa_abdullah/status/1934906826656821465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2025</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
P diddy versi melayu ke ni?
&mdash; His Lordship Baron of Luxor (@GerardValkyrie3) <a href="https://twitter.com/GerardValkyrie3/status/1934923232962122032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2025</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
ini zaman gangguan seksual berleluasa.. sebab apa? bila punca tadbir itu sendiri seorang pengamal hubungan songsang, maka golongan" ni berani berbuat sesuka hati mereka. bila punca kepala itu lagi dah rosak maka yang bawah ni mampu lurus ke? ada artis nak mohon imuniti pulak ke?
&mdash; فيراس🔭 (@firasxy3) <a href="https://twitter.com/firasxy3/status/1934827646166482976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2025</a></blockquote>

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A Watershed Moment for Celebrity Accountability in Malaysia?
The case has also reignited broader conversations about accountability within Malaysia&rsquo;s entertainment industry. Advocates for child protection laws and women's rights groups have called for the media and public not to sensationalise the matter but to allow the legal system to proceed unhindered.
Legal experts say the coming weeks will be crucial. If the case proceeds to trial, the prosecution will need to present substantial evidence. Conversely, Naim&rsquo;s legal team is expected to build a defence around consent and context, though the fact that the victim is a minor will significantly complicate such arguments.
For now, the question of guilt or innocence remains with the courts. What is clear, however, is that this case marks a significant test of Malaysia&rsquo;s judicial system, media ethics, and public attitudes towards celebrity and accountability.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Despite the grave charge, the singer-actor pleads not guilty and says he is committed to clearing his name.

622cc0053ad508c2e6c9a13f950ba3c139b7c7472604aeaa24bd850b7103a263

Local Star Naim Daniel Charged With Sexual Assault Of Teen: Public Outcry And Legal Fight Loom

What was intended as a major flood mitigation and river restoration project has turned into an unsettling revelation of hidden tragedies and deep-seated pollution. Over a dozen human bodies, including that of a baby, have been discovered as part of the Klang River Flood Mitigation Project, carried out under the Selangor Maritime Gateway (SMG) initiative.
These revelations have stunned both the project team and the public, offering a stark reminder of the environmental and societal challenges that lurk beneath Malaysia&rsquo;s most urbanised waterways.
Bodies Found Amid River Dredging
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7a466ee71240db133338f00fafcc5f453d1e309605d4c89a040b4354693a919c" />
According to Landasan Lumayan Sdn Bhd (LLSB) managing director Syaiful Azmen Nordin, the discovery of human remains has not been an isolated incident, but a grimly recurring reality since works began on 1 November 2022. The project, which includes dredging and widening the river to reduce the risk of flooding, has exposed more than ten bodies, with some weeks witnessing back-to-back discoveries.
&ldquo;To date, we&rsquo;ve handed over more than 10 bodies to the police and fire department for further investigation,&rdquo; Syaiful revealed during a press visit to Zone 8 of the project in Kota Kemuning on 16 June.
He described the emotional impact of the discoveries on workers, noting that the infant body was particularly distressing. &ldquo;There was even a point where we found three bodies in three consecutive days,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;These are not the kinds of findings you prepare for in civil engineering.&rdquo;
Unprecedented Pollution: Fridges, Sofas and Motorcycles in the Riverbed
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2680fc8173041d6b244d9537a60d60c6d01841b2fc2836ba36e1a69e1ccbdf5a" />
Beyond the haunting discovery of bodies, the flood mitigation teams have also encountered shocking levels of river pollution. As workers excavated sediment and debris, they pulled out massive items such as refrigerators, lorry tyres, mattresses, bedframes, sofas, and even motorcycles from the bottom of the Klang River.
&ldquo;I honestly don&rsquo;t understand how an entire refrigerator ends up in a river,&rdquo; Syaiful said, baffled by the sheer scale of illegal dumping. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s not just one or two isolated items&mdash;this has clearly been going on for a long time.&rdquo;
The level of pollution has made dredging efforts significantly more complex. To date, more than 918,936 cubic metres of waste material&mdash;including sediment, solid waste, and rocks&mdash;have been removed from the river as part of the ongoing restoration effort.
Additionally, LLSB records show that since 2016, a total of 94,000 metric tonnes of floating waste have been collected from the river&rsquo;s surface&mdash;highlighting both past neglect and the present urgency of clean-up operations.
Holistic Approach to River Restoration
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e8b5ea929eba289f559b175424fd3a9347aec62e9d4e750afd1b6e116c4fe1ee" />
The Klang River Flood Mitigation Project is part of a broader, long-term plan under the SMG framework to address flood risks while restoring the Klang River&rsquo;s ecosystem and turning it into a sustainable water resource. The initiative aims to expand the river&rsquo;s flow capacity by up to 40% and improve water quality to at least Class III on the Water Quality Index (WQI), allowing for future treatment into potable water.
Current works focus on Zones 6, 7, and 8 in Shah Alam, covering areas identified as flood-prone, including Alam Impian, Section 24, Section 17, and Kota Kemuning. The project includes widening the river from 50&ndash;60 metres to 80&ndash;100 metres, strengthening embankments with flood walls, geo bags, sheet piles, and introducing earth bunds for structural resilience.
The initiative also supports the Shah Alam Sustainable Urban Drainage (SASUD) programme and the development of a water treatment plant at Sungai Rasau, aligning efforts to ensure Klang River becomes a future source of raw water supply for Selangor.
Minimal Community Disruption Promised
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d0d0a1ae20b43d07f3e588aed0f6714c9d544fb41d3386fff1d8408977a4706b" />
Despite the scale of the project, LLSB has assured the public that community disruption has been kept to a minimum. Measures have been taken to mitigate dust, noise, and traffic disturbances, including the provision of alternative routes, noise monitoring, and early communication with affected residents.
&ldquo;This is not just a construction site,&rdquo; said Syaiful. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s a community-focused infrastructure project aimed at preventing disasters like flash floods while also creating long-term ecological value.&rdquo;
While engineering and environmental planning are progressing, Syaiful emphasised that public behaviour remains a critical challenge. He called for greater civic awareness, pointing out that many of the items dumped into the river could have been recycled or disposed of responsibly.
&ldquo;Some of these things may have washed in during floods, but not all of them. The volume is too high,&rdquo; he stressed. &ldquo;This shows a lack of civic responsibility. People must change the way they think about waste and how we treat our rivers.&rdquo;
Looking Ahead: A Cleaner, Safer Klang River
Syaiful confirmed that the flood mitigation and rehabilitation efforts will expand to other sections of the Klang River, prioritised based on flood risk assessments and population density.
He acknowledged that the project is not without its difficulties. &ldquo;Our challenges are significant&mdash;but we believe that this integrated, large-scale approach is the future of water management and flood prevention in Selangor.&rdquo;
Despite its grim revelations, the Klang River project is charting a path forward&mdash;one that not only improves urban resilience to floods but aspires to turn a polluted and neglected river into a sustainable natural asset for generations to come.
As we strive for sustainability, it's essential that Malaysians take responsibility&mdash;not only by keeping our rivers free from waste, but also by embracing proper recycling habits. These small, consistent actions can go a long way in keeping both our waterways and streets clean for future generations.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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The discovery of an infant’s body left a profound emotional impact on those involved in the cleanup efforts.

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