Nabil Luqman

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For those keeping abreast of the ongoing conflict between Palestine and Israel, the past few months have been particularly eventful.
Previously, the United Nations Security Council convened to address the escalating tensions, with a pivotal vote called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The resolution garnered significant support, with 14 council members in favour, while the United States abstained from voting.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/3390/un-security-council-us-abstains-surprise-not-demands-immediate-ceasefire-in-gaza">UN Security Council (US abstains ..surprise not!) Demands Immediate Ceasefire in GAZA</a>
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fc54e6a8292898b27c724ed44761285d82a523b9d86fa2263362c9a7944a25f5" />
Algeria's UN Ambassador, Amar Bendjama, passionately urged the council to acknowledge the immense suffering endured by the Palestinian people, emphasizing the intolerable duration of ongoing bloodshed. He stressed the imperative for the United Nations to intervene decisively to halt the escalating violence.
However, despite the council's vote in favour of a ceasefire, Israel continued its assault on Palestine, disregarding all directives. This has sparked widespread condemnation and raised concerns about Israel and America's complicity in what some characterize as genocide.
As of May 13, 2024, the Gaza Health Ministry has reported a staggering toll, with at least 35,034 fatalities and over 78,755 people wounded in the Gaza Strip since Israel initiated its military campaign on October 7, 2023.
United Nations General Assembly Backs Palestinian Bid For Membership
Since 2012, Palestine has held the status of a non-member observer state at the United Nations, granting it certain rights but falling short of full membership. To attain full membership, a country must receive approval from the UN Security Council, which then recommends the application to the General Assembly.
Amidst the ongoing conflict, numerous nations have thrown their support behind Palestine's quest for the peace and recognition they rightfully deserve. Recently, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resoundingly endorsed Palestine's bid for full UN membership. The assembly recognized Palestine as qualified to join and urged the UN Security Council to review the matter favourably, signalling a significant step forward in the diplomatic process.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1e20f80cbdb65712a9ba45a59c65c1edd6d5817ba3b0a612a18030d87dda83dd" />
The vote by the 193 members of the UNGA on Friday served as a global gauge of support for Palestine's aspiration to achieve full UN membership, a move that would effectively acknowledge its statehood. This momentum followed the United States' vote against it in the previous Security Council meeting last month.
The assembly passed a resolution on Friday with 143 votes in favour and nine against, including those from the US and Israel, while 25 countries abstained. While the vote doesn't confer full UN membership on Palestine, it acknowledges the country as qualified for membership.
The UNGA resolution "determines the state of Palestine... should therefore be admitted to membership" and "recommends that the Security Council reconsider the matter favourably." While the UNGA lacks the authority to grant full UN membership to Palestine, the resolution passed last Friday will confer additional rights and privileges to Palestinians starting from September 2024, including a seat among UN members in the assembly hall. However, despite having a seat, they won't have voting rights in the body.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/be288d58bb178c9d19ab185743a348c0823b2617ef5bd4239cd0ee2eeaab9c01" />
The Palestinian pursuit of full U.N. membership coincides with a seven-month-long conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Additionally, Israel's expansion of settlements in the occupied West Bank, deemed illegal by the U.N., further underscores the urgency of the Palestinian push.
"We want peace, we want freedom," Palestinian U.N. Ambassador Riyad Mansour told the assembly before the vote. "A yes vote is a vote for Palestinian existence, it is not against any state. ... It is an investment in peace."
"Voting yes is the right thing to do," he said in remarks that drew applause.
Under the founding U.N. Charter, membership is open to "peace-loving states" that accept the obligations in that document and are able and willing to carry them out.
"As long as so many of you are 'Jew-hating,' you don't really care that the Palestinians are not 'peace-loving'," U.N. Ambassador Gilad Erdan, who spoke after Mansour, told his fellow diplomats. He accused the assembly of shredding the U.N. Charter - as he used a small shredder to destroy a copy of the Charter while at the lectern.
"Shame on you," Erdan said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Full result of the vote on enhancing <a href="https://twitter.com/Palestine_UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Palestine_UN</a>'s membership at the UN. <a href="https://t.co/ejLHzz4P4M">pic.twitter.com/ejLHzz4P4M</a>
&mdash; Rami Ayari (@Raminho) <a href="https://twitter.com/Raminho/status/1788956393438859580?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Israel Ambassador Says UN Is Welcoming A &ldquo;Terror State&rdquo; 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/615825c979bb49fb290403da04bee67aa25ba947fd22ea8cff206d26a3aac311" />
Israel&rsquo;s ambassador to the UN, Gilad Edran, vehemently criticized the vote, asserting that Palestine's admission into the UN marks the acceptance of a "terror state" within the organization. He draws attention to the UN's founding principles, aimed at preventing the resurgence of tyranny, particularly referencing the atrocities of the Nazis.
Edran laments that the UN now appears to be contradicting its original mission by advancing the establishment of a Palestinian "terror state," which he ominously predicts will be led by "the Hitler of our times."
What Will Palestine Get For Being A Member of UNGA?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5cc45a9bc41b0fe2069579379c05ed7c78992bc89e1022c392dc6ee06929caad" />
Being a full member of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) provides a country with significant benefits and responsibilities. As a member, a country gains the ability to participate in the global decision-making process, influencing international policies and resolutions that impact global peace, security, and development. Full membership also grants access to a platform for diplomatic engagement, allowing countries to voice their concerns, negotiate treaties, and collaborate on international issues such as climate change, human rights, and economic development. Additionally, UNGA membership enhances a country's international legitimacy and credibility, fostering stronger diplomatic ties and cooperation with other nations.
Moreover, being part of the UNGA offers access to various UN programs, agencies, and funds that support national development goals. Member states can receive assistance in areas such as health, education, infrastructure, and disaster relief, which can significantly contribute to their socio-economic progress. Full membership also comes with the responsibility to uphold the principles of the UN Charter, promoting peace, security, and respect for human rights. As the international community continues to strive for inclusivity and representation, there is a growing hope for Palestine to gain its seat in the UNGA, allowing it to fully participate in the global dialogue and work towards peace and stability in the region.
As we look ahead, our hopes are with Palestine as they strive for their rightful seat in the UN. However, should the measure come before the council again, it may encounter the familiar obstacle of a US veto, potentially impeding progress once more.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.
&nbsp;
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Though they don’t have a full membership yet, they are now recognised to join and extend rights. 

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United Nations General Assembly Votes Overwhelmingly In Favour Of Palestine's UN Membership

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Few roles in cinema are as iconic&mdash;and as burdened with expectation&mdash;as James Bond. For decades, playing 007 has been considered the peak of an actor&rsquo;s career, a role that guarantees international fame. But it also comes with an immense amount of scrutiny, legacy pressure, and public expectation.
That&rsquo;s exactly why Henry Golding, the Malaysian-British star best known for Crazy Rich Asians, isn&rsquo;t too keen on the idea. Speaking candidly during the red carpet premiere of his latest film, The Old Guard 2, Golding addressed speculation that he&rsquo;s in the running to become the next Bond&mdash;a topic he admits has followed him since his breakout performance in 2018.
&ldquo;A Nightmare Every Actor Has&rdquo;
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9c90017f537956eccb5545c3d02c12086cb020e34d859becd510e63be7f3b97d" />
&ldquo;I think that&rsquo;s every actor&rsquo;s kind of nightmare,&rdquo; said Golding when asked about possibly succeeding Daniel Craig as 007. &ldquo;You&rsquo;re not just stepping into a role&mdash;you&rsquo;re stepping into a franchise that&rsquo;s been around for over 60 years, with some of the biggest names in cinematic history behind it.&rdquo;
His comment might sound surprising coming from a leading man who has been praised for his charisma and suaveness, qualities typically associated with Bond. But Golding made it clear that it&rsquo;s the weight of the role&mdash;not the role itself&mdash;that gives him pause.
&ldquo;There&rsquo;s this massive legacy hanging over it. You&rsquo;re not just expected to be good; you&rsquo;re expected to reinvent the character, to live up to what came before, and to somehow keep millions of fans happy.&rdquo;
Cultural Pressure and Fan Scrutiny
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/648a5a5b544fbfc4c329ff7788b90b258902ed951b98e3beac8029c4be50f214" />
While many actors would leap at the opportunity, Golding is refreshingly honest about the cultural pressures that come with it. &ldquo;Maybe I&rsquo;m just a p****,&rdquo; he said with a laugh. &ldquo;But I think I would love it so much more if there wasn&rsquo;t that overhanging cultural pressure.&rdquo;
He isn&rsquo;t wrong. Each new Bond actor has faced intense fan scrutiny before even stepping into the role. When Daniel Craig was cast, many fans baulked at the idea of a blond-haired Bond&mdash;until Casino Royale proved the doubters wrong. And that level of criticism hasn&rsquo;t gone away.
Golding&rsquo;s concern is understandable: in the age of social media and rapid fan reactions, any misstep would be amplified globally.
An Expanded Universe of Agents?
Rather than see Bond as the only option, Golding floated the idea of broadening the franchise&rsquo;s scope. &ldquo;Why can&rsquo;t they bring out more agents or more double-0s? That would be so much more fun,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;There just aren&rsquo;t the same restraints and expectations.&rdquo;
It&rsquo;s an idea that has gained traction among fans and industry insiders alike. The Bond universe has long hinted at a wider world of agents&mdash;after all, James is 007, not 001. Golding&rsquo;s suggestion could breathe new life into the franchise while offering actors greater creative freedom.
A Franchise Slowly Opening Up
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b4d57c92d03bc0f8a7cc387d7f5c214a1d527565b281c8bceadd00c9f9678bf7" />
Born in Malaysia and raised in the UK, Golding has also weighed in on the long-running conversation about diversity in the Bond franchise. &ldquo;Isn&rsquo;t it great that we&rsquo;re even having this conversation now?&rdquo; he told Attitude magazine in an earlier interview.
&ldquo;Why not a Black Bond, an Asian Bond, a mixed-race Bond, or a non-distinct Bond? We&rsquo;re at that point where we should stop asking &lsquo;if&rsquo; and start asking &lsquo;when&rsquo;.&rdquo;
Yet he was also pragmatic about the realities. &ldquo;The world might not be ready just yet,&rdquo; he admitted. &ldquo;I mean, I&rsquo;m Asian, and everyone&rsquo;s fighting for a diverse Bond&mdash;sorry, white guys.&rdquo;
Still, the fact that he&rsquo;s even part of the conversation is, in his view, an honour. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s flattering. Truly. But I think there are other roles within that universe that could be just as exciting&mdash;without the baggage.&rdquo;
Denis Villeneuve Confirmed as Bond&rsquo;s New Director
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f556acdd71e990410d120a0ac2bcb664e625ca6a98dd8420f6383abd64d53f4e" />
While the search for the next Bond actor continues, the creative direction of the franchise has officially changed hands. Acclaimed filmmaker Denis Villeneuve, best known for Dune and Blade Runner 2049, has been confirmed as the director for the next James Bond film under Amazon MGM Studios.
The studio, which gained creative control of the Bond intellectual property in a historic deal, aims to reinvigorate the franchise with Villeneuve&rsquo;s bold, visionary style. He will also serve as executive producer alongside Tanya Lapointe, with producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman attached.
&ldquo;James Bond is sacred territory for me,&rdquo; Villeneuve said in a statement. &ldquo;Some of my earliest film memories were watching Sean Connery in Dr. No with my father. This is a huge responsibility&mdash;but also a massive honour.&rdquo;
Amazon MGM&rsquo;s decision marks the first full reboot of the franchise since acquiring MGM for $8.5 billion in 2022. With Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson stepping back from producing duties, the series is poised to enter a new creative chapter.
So, Who Will Be the Next Bond?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0c3b23d2b8d7027bec19009439586696d35f969751fd8d8fa620a96cbeddc435" />
With Daniel Craig&rsquo;s tenure officially over following No Time to Die, the hunt for his replacement continues. Names floated over the years include Idris Elba, Tom Hardy, Henry Cavill, Reg&eacute;-Jean Page, James Norton, Richard Madden, Damson Idris, Cillian Murphy, and Aaron Taylor-Johnson.
Yet, with Villeneuve&rsquo;s recent appointment, the direction of the next film could influence casting in unexpected ways. Will the next Bond stick to the tried-and-tested formula&mdash;or will the studio opt for someone who breaks convention entirely?
Golding&rsquo;s Spy Future Still on the Table
While Golding may not want to carry the Bond mantle, that doesn&rsquo;t mean he&rsquo;s ruling out roles in the spy genre altogether. &ldquo;I&rsquo;d love to play a secret agent, just maybe not the secret agent,&rdquo; he said with a grin.
His honesty about the pitfalls of the role is a rare glimpse into the internal debates actors face behind the scenes. For now, the search for 007 continues&mdash;but perhaps the real evolution of the Bond universe lies not in who plays him next, but in how the story itself evolves.
Hard to Beat the Swagger of Daniel Craig
One thing is certain&mdash;whoever steps into the role next will have big shoes to fill. Daniel Craig brought a gritty elegance to the character that redefined Bond for a new generation. His mix of raw physicality, emotional depth, and that unmistakable swagger made him arguably one of the most memorable 007s since Sean Connery.
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But No Time to Die not only closed the chapter on Craig&rsquo;s portrayal&mdash;it killed him off entirely, a shocking creative decision that has left fans divided and the franchise in uncharted territory. Replacing that kind of legacy isn&rsquo;t just about casting&mdash;it&rsquo;s about redefining what Bond is in a post-Craig world.
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 iconic role that “nobody” wants? 

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Henry Golding On the James Bond Role: “A Nightmare Every Actor Fears”

Ever wondered how your online orders arrive so swiftly&mdash;especially in the notoriously congested Klang Valley? As e-commerce continues its meteoric rise in Malaysia, consumers expect ever-faster deliveries. Yet few pause to consider what powers this rapid logistics chain behind the scenes. Beyond the delivery bikes and vans weaving through traffic lies a new, unexpected player: Malaysia&rsquo;s Light Rail Transit (LRT).
Now, an innovative local logistics firm is transforming how parcels move across the city&mdash;bringing deliveries onto the rails.
A Green Shift in Urban Logistics
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8f617aef1eec97c9eb67fa302b2361403cb2b2649b1bf745de9a416db4a65177" /> Pfeiffer (left) and Gueguen at Diolko&rsquo;s hub at Putra Heights LRT station.
According to the Asian Transport Observatory, Malaysia&rsquo;s transport sector emitted 66.35 million tonnes of carbon dioxide in 2023, accounting for nearly a quarter of the nation's total. The surge in online shopping only worsens these numbers, with delivery vehicles making countless trips daily.
Enter Diolko Logistics Malaysia Sdn Bhd. Based in Cheras, the company has partnered with Prasarana Malaysia Bhd to pioneer an eco-conscious delivery system that utilises the existing LRT network and electric vehicles (EVs). The result: reduced emissions, less traffic congestion, and faster delivery times.
Since its soft launch in July 2023, Diolko has successfully delivered over 6,000 parcels via this hybrid rail-electric model&mdash;cutting carbon emissions by an estimated 70%.
How the Delivery System Works
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/79eddb0f4c3e7690a3df4d22d9cb3cd5601426bd1ced52f4a989d071b86118fd" />
Diolko&rsquo;s system currently centres around three LRT stations: Awan Besar, Ara Damansara, and Putra Heights&mdash;the latter functioning as the central sorting hub. Parcels are first collected from clients using electric vans, then sent to Putra Heights for sorting and classification.
The sorted parcels are loaded into secure, APAD-certified trolleys, labelled by destination, and transported via LRT during off-peak hours (post-11pm) to avoid passenger disruption. Each train can accommodate up to six trolleys per trip, with clear separation from commuter areas.
At the destination stations, electric motorcycles take over the last-mile delivery. Diolko currently employs two electric vans and eight e-bikes, with plans to expand both fleets.
Expanding in Phases
Diolko has outlined a three-phase expansion strategy. Phase One will see full deployment along the Kelana Jaya and Ampang/Sri Petaling LRT lines, with new hubs at Gombak and Ampang stations by the end of 2025.
Phase Two will extend to major MRT lines, including Kwasa Damansara, Kajang, and Putrajaya, targeting urban centres like Cheras and Kota Damansara. Phase Three will encompass the upcoming LRT3 line&mdash;set to serve Shah Alam and Klang upon its September 2025 launch.
The ultimate goal: a network of at least 15 strategic delivery hubs across the Klang Valley by 2027.
Room for Growth, But Not Without Concerns
Despite praise for its sustainability, experts caution that scaling the model may be challenging. Dr Dazmin Daud, an assistant professor at UCSI University, noted that LRT infrastructure was never intended for freight.
&ldquo;As parcel volumes increase, the system may hit capacity constraints. Trains are built for people, not parcels,&rdquo; he said. He also emphasised the operational limitations tied to off-peak scheduling.
However, Dazmin acknowledged that leveraging existing infrastructure avoids additional maintenance costs, as rail operations are already covered by Prasarana. He advised the government to carefully vet future logistics operators to ensure efficiency and avoid service delays.
Practical Barriers: Space and Reach
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c58b588a707992d256876f97caf94fa92e7d392ece51d1903437593da3dd0ce0" />
Some critics point out that several LRT stations&mdash;especially older or centrally located ones&mdash;lack sufficient space for handling parcels or receiving e-bike riders. Furthermore, not all areas are well-connected to the rail network, with towns like Rawang still out of reach.
Kuugan Thangarajoo, a logistics hub manager, suggested that increasing the number of coaches or introducing cargo-specific trips could help. However, he warned this might interfere with regular passenger services. He also advocated for the introduction of parcel locker systems or self-collection points to improve accessibility.
Diolko&rsquo;s Chief Operating Officer, Onno Pfeiffer, stressed that not every LRT station would be turned into a logistics hub. Stations with limited space or high footfall, like KLCC, are intentionally avoided.
&ldquo;We prioritise stations with better accessibility, like Bukit Bintang, to serve wider areas from a single point. Our trolleys are loaded in under 30 seconds. If we miss a train, we simply wait for the next one&mdash;we never disrupt passenger services,&rdquo; Pfeiffer said.
Prasarana&rsquo;s Vision: Urban Transport Meets Smart Logistics
Public transport operator Prasarana believes the integration of parcel logistics and urban rail can transform Malaysian cities.
&ldquo;By moving goods via rail, we&rsquo;re not only reducing congestion and emissions, but also building a foundation for multimodal logistics systems,&rdquo; the company said in a statement.
Plans are underway to reimagine select stations into multi-use hubs, featuring cargo bays, smart lockers, and integrated digital platforms. Prasarana also aims to incorporate virtual hubs and more EVs to further cut emissions and delays.
Importantly, the operator remains open to collaborating with other logistics providers&mdash;paving the way for an ecosystem where public transport and parcel delivery coexist. As Diolko&rsquo;s urban delivery model continues its rollout, it may become a regional benchmark in sustainable logistics&mdash;showing that the trains we ride to work might one day be delivering our parcels too.
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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Spot a train running late at night? It might be delivering your next online order.

b97bff4a249bef33bd1df3bc0548e52c208cf53a6427d4a93b89dcc59e587850

From Rails To Doorsteps: How Malaysia’s LRT Is Empowering Eco-Friendly Parcel Deliveries

Malaysia is facing a significant infrastructure challenge, with the Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan revealing that RM4 billion is required annually to repair and maintain the country&rsquo;s damaged roads. However, the Ministry of Public Works (KKR) has only received half that amount due to financial limitations faced by the federal government.
This persistent shortfall in funding, combined with worsening weather patterns and increasing wear from heavy vehicles, has made road maintenance a growing national concern.
Heavy Rain and Overloaded Lorries Blamed
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/828881297a664013bf639d30078bb90647bc65cb4367b520f451f7fd4ed93e7f" />
Speaking during a press conference after officiating the Bachok UMNO division delegates&rsquo; meeting on 28 June, Ahmad Maslan highlighted two key culprits behind the deteriorating state of roads across Malaysia: adverse weather conditions and overloaded heavy vehicles.
&ldquo;Due to heavy rains and overloaded cargo vehicles such as lorries and trailers, our roads are wearing down faster than expected,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;We need RM4 billion to properly upgrade and maintain the road network nationwide, but we&rsquo;ve never received such an amount. Typically, we are allocated close to RM2 billion.&rdquo;
The limited funds received each year are insufficient to address the full scale of the problem, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas where roads are ageing rapidly and require urgent resurfacing or rebuilding.
Ageing Roads, Mounting Backlog
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/30f1fdec6ec0fa52881d8093cf14a1d47312d7c3a1d6a7b565188726dd4b9860" />
According to Ahmad, many roads across the country are now past their prime and in dire need of repaving. He emphasised that the current allocation is not enough to clear the maintenance backlog.
&ldquo;There are roads that are decades old and in need of urgent repairs. Without adequate funding, we can only do patchwork, which doesn&rsquo;t solve the issue in the long term,&rdquo; he explained.
In addition to regular wear and tear, climate change and Malaysia&rsquo;s increasingly unpredictable monsoon seasons have further worsened road degradation, especially in flood-prone areas.
Redirecting Road Tax and Fines: A Missed Opportunity?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6b8d768eef28232c56d8cab66ed1010f09de392da9fbfe4cad6aaba17547706d" />
Ahmad revealed that the Works Ministry had previously proposed a mechanism to ease its budgetary burden: redirecting revenue collected by the Road Transport Department (JPJ)&mdash;such as road taxes and traffic summonses&mdash;towards funding road maintenance.
&ldquo;This proposal was tabled some time ago. We asked whether road tax and speeding fines collected by JPJ could be channelled to our Ministry to help fund maintenance work,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;However, there has been no response so far.&rdquo;
The lack of follow-up on this proposal has sparked renewed debate on whether the government&rsquo;s road-related revenues are being put to best use, especially when infrastructure quality continues to deteriorate.
Calls to Tax Heavy Vehicles Gain Traction
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7f4bfadff6959b0df59204ae29e915c77c572f818c66b3d980dc266f1e677394" />
With limited government funds and rising road repair costs, some experts and members of the public have suggested that higher taxes on heavy vehicles could provide a sustainable solution. These vehicles, which often travel with loads well above the legal weight limit, are a significant factor in damaging road surfaces.
Ahmad acknowledged these calls, stating that the Ministry is open to such ideas but stressed that the final decision would fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Transport.
&ldquo;If there are suggestions to raise taxes on heavy vehicles, it will be up to the Finance and Transport Ministries to evaluate and decide,&rdquo; he said.
Expert Opinion: Ring-Fencing Revenue for Repairs
Transport and infrastructure experts have supported the idea of increasing levies on heavy vehicles. Professor Law Teik Hua, head of the Road Safety Research Centre at Universiti Putra Malaysia, previously proposed that such funds could be earmarked for road maintenance to alleviate the Ministry&rsquo;s RM4 billion annual requirement.
Analysts believe that with a ring-fenced fund sourced from road usage-related taxes, Malaysia could adopt a more consistent and predictable road maintenance schedule, rather than relying on annual budget allocations which are vulnerable to economic fluctuations and political priorities.
Looking Ahead: Budget Hope and Policy Review
Despite the current limitations, Ahmad Maslan said his Ministry remains hopeful for increased allocations in future national budgets. He reiterated the urgent need for a long-term solution to Malaysia&rsquo;s infrastructure woes.
&ldquo;Our roads are vital not only for transportation but also for economic development, tourism, and public safety,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;We continue to push for better funding every year, and we hope that both public awareness and inter-ministerial cooperation will help us move forward.&rdquo;
With Malaysia&rsquo;s road network forming the backbone of its land transport system, the push for more sustainable funding and policy reform is gaining urgency. Whether through better tax redistribution or targeted levies on heavy users, one thing is clear: without more consistent investment, the cracks in the road&mdash;both literal and figurative&mdash;will only deepen.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4400/kota-madani-malaysias-ambitious-rm4-billion-car-free-smart-city-unveiled-in-putrajaya">Kota Madani: Malaysia&rsquo;s Ambitious RM4 Billion Car-Free Smart City Unveiled In Putrajaya</a>
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0eec531081c672fd5818a59923d6a008b854254ed8aa19ebde30cf78f640914c" />
At the same time, public frustration over government spending has been mounting. Just last week, many Malaysians took to social media to criticise the newly announced Kota Madani development, championed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, which is estimated to cost RM4 billion&mdash;the same amount the Works Ministry says is needed annually to repair roads.
While some acknowledged the Prime Minister&rsquo;s intent to leave behind a lasting legacy, others argued that basic infrastructure, particularly the state of roads, should take precedence. With frequent accidents, potholes, and city floods becoming all too common, many believe that addressing these urgent issues would better serve the rakyat than large-scale legacy projects.
The public sentiment reflects a growing demand for greater accountability and prioritisation in government spending, especially when the safety and daily convenience of Malaysians are directly at stake.
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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RM4 billion for roads... isn’t that what Kota Madani is costing too? 👀

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Cracks In The System: RM4 Billion Required To Repair Malaysia’s Roads

Beginning 1 July 2025, it will be compulsory for all drivers and passengers on express and tour buses in Malaysia to wear seat belts. The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has announced that failure to comply with this new regulation will result in a RM300 compound fine.
The move is part of a broader initiative by JPJ to improve road safety and reduce the number of fatalities and serious injuries involving public buses, particularly on long-distance journeys across the country.
Stricter Enforcement After Years of Advocacy
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According to JPJ Director-General Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli, the department had previously relied on advocacy and education campaigns to promote the use of seat belts. However, this approach will be replaced by strict enforcement starting this Tuesday.
&ldquo;Previously, we took an advocacy approach, but from now on, we will be enforcing this requirement without compromise,&rdquo; he said during a recent event at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK), adding that the time for leniency is over.
The new enforcement measure will not only apply to passengers who neglect to buckle up, but also to bus drivers who fail to ensure their passengers do so. In fact, drivers who do not remind passengers to wear seat belts will be fined, and action may also be taken against the bus company involved.
Regulation Applies to Buses Built After 2020
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The seat belt regulation will initially apply to buses manufactured from 1 January 2020 onwards. These vehicles are already subject to laws requiring them to be equipped with seat belts at every passenger seat.
Buses manufactured before 2020 will be given a grace period to retrofit the required seat belts. Aedy Fadly explained that JPJ is currently engaging with bus operators and stakeholders in the public transport industry to facilitate the process of upgrading older buses.
A formal directive outlining the timeline and technical specifications for retrofitting will be issued soon, he said, to ensure consistent implementation across the sector.
Drivers, Operators, and Passengers All Share Responsibility
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Under the new regulation, the responsibility of ensuring seat belt use no longer rests solely on passengers. Bus drivers are required to inform passengers of the rule before departure and ensure compliance throughout the journey.
&ldquo;If a passenger refuses to wear a seat belt despite being reminded, then the passenger will be fined. However, if there is no reminder given by the driver, then both the driver and the operator will also be liable,&rdquo; Aedy clarified.
To ensure accountability, JPJ will monitor compliance using onboard CCTV footage and passenger statements during enforcement operations. The department has also recommended that bus companies develop internal standard operating procedures (SOPs) to guarantee that all safety protocols, including seat belt usage, are followed.
Improving Safety Standards on Public Transport
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This regulation marks a significant step forward in raising safety standards within Malaysia&rsquo;s public transportation system. Long-distance and tour buses are frequently involved in road incidents, and the lack of seat belt usage has been identified as a major contributing factor to passenger injuries and fatalities.
By mandating seat belt use, JPJ hopes to instil a culture of safety and responsibility among public transport users. &ldquo;The use of seat belts is one of the most basic yet effective ways to reduce harm in the event of an accident,&rdquo; Aedy said.
The department&rsquo;s decision comes after repeated calls from road safety advocates to modernise and enforce safety equipment regulations on buses, particularly as other countries in the region have long adopted similar measures.
Support and Challenges Ahead
While the regulation has been welcomed by many safety groups and members of the public, it also presents logistical and financial challenges for some bus operators, especially those with large fleets of older vehicles.
Nevertheless, JPJ&rsquo;s phased approach, combined with ongoing engagement sessions, is designed to give operators enough time to comply. In the long run, the move is expected to significantly enhance the quality and safety of public bus services in Malaysia.
For now, both passengers and operators are urged to take the new rule seriously, as enforcement officers will be carrying out checks starting 1 July. Failure to wear a seat belt&mdash;whether due to oversight or neglect&mdash;will no longer be tolerated.
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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With passenger safety now a priority, both drivers and passengers must buckle up—or face a RM300 fine.

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Seat Belts Compulsory On Express And Tour Buses Starting 1 July 2025

A Vietnamese passenger was fined VND4 million (approximately RM650) after joking about carrying a bomb while disembarking from a Malaysia Airlines flight at Hanoi&rsquo;s Noi Bai International Airport. The offhand remark triggered a full-scale security response, serving as a stark reminder that jokes about explosives are no laughing matter in the context of aviation safety.
Offhand Comment Triggers Emergency Protocol
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The incident took place on 22 June 2025, shortly after Malaysia Airlines flight MH752 from Kuala Lumpur landed in Hanoi. As passengers were exiting the aircraft, a flight attendant approached one of the male passengers and inquired about the long, black carry-on case he was holding. The man responded with a single word&mdash;&ldquo;Bomb.&rdquo;
Though seemingly brief, the response set off the airport's full emergency response protocol. The crew immediately alerted authorities, leading to the passenger being escorted off the aircraft. He was detained and questioned by a coordinated team involving immigration police, airport police, aviation security personnel, Malaysia Airlines officials, and staff from Vietnam Airport Ground Services (VIAGS).
No Threat Found, But Fine Imposed
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A comprehensive inspection was carried out on both the passenger and his luggage. The black case in question was thoroughly examined and found to contain only a computer keyboard and a mouse. No weapons, explosives, or prohibited items were discovered.
The man later admitted that his comment was intended as a joke, claiming he was unaware of how serious such statements are taken in aviation contexts. He apologised to the authorities, acknowledging his poor judgement. Despite the absence of any real threat, he was fined VND4 million under Vietnamese civil aviation regulations for causing public alarm and disrupting airport operations.
Airport Authorities Issue Public Warning
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Following the incident, Noi Bai International Airport issued an official statement on social media, particularly through its Facebook page, reminding all passengers that jokes involving bombs, weapons, or explosives are strictly prohibited in airport areas and on aircraft.
The airport stressed that such comments, even when made casually or in jest, can incite fear and panic among other passengers, delay flight operations, and consume emergency resources. They also reiterated that security protocols must be triggered immediately in such situations, regardless of intent or context.
An officer from the airport&rsquo;s Emergency Command Centre added that had the joke been made during boarding or pre-flight procedures, the consequences could have been even more severe. &ldquo;The flight could have been delayed or grounded, and security screening halted,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;Even false alarms can cost time, money, and cause stress to hundreds of people.&rdquo;
Public Urged to Avoid Security-Related Jokes
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1e96895fcf09e56ef86f81b56c7a3a7a45ef2bcbffa2ff4477128762c2b15057" />
Officials used the opportunity to remind passengers to cooperate fully with security personnel and refrain from making inappropriate remarks. They also encouraged the public to educate family members, especially children, about the seriousness of airport security rules.
&ldquo;Anyone who violates these rules will be held fully accountable,&rdquo; read the official statement. &ldquo;Respecting these protocols helps ensure the safety and comfort of everyone travelling.&rdquo;
Malaysia Airlines and Aviation Safety Under Spotlight
While the incident was handled professionally, it once again places a spotlight on the challenges airlines and airports face in balancing passenger experience with strict safety enforcement. Malaysia Airlines has previously encountered similar situations. In one case a few years ago, a flight had to return to its departure airport after a passenger allegedly made a bomb threat mid-air. The situation resulted in the suspect&rsquo;s arrest, and other passengers were rebooked on alternative flights.
These incidents underscore the zero-tolerance stance that global aviation authorities take towards jokes or claims related to weapons, explosives, or threats&mdash;regardless of whether they are made in jest, frustration, or ignorance.
A Lesson for All Travellers
As international travel continues to rebound post-pandemic, authorities are urging greater awareness and responsibility among travellers. With security being a top priority in any airport, the public is reminded that even a single word&mdash;like &ldquo;bomb&rdquo;&mdash;can lead to detention, fines, and major delays.
Passengers are advised to always respond to security-related questions with clarity and seriousness. What might seem like a harmless joke to one person can quickly escalate into a full-blown security incident affecting hundreds of others.
In a time where air travel is becoming increasingly streamlined and digitised, one careless remark can still cause serious disruption. Let this incident serve as a cautionary tale: when it comes to airport security, it&rsquo;s better to be safe, respectful&mdash;and most importantly, silent&mdash;on sensitive topics.
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Security doesn’t joke — and neither should you, especially in airports.

United Nations General Assembly Votes Overwhelmingly In Favour Of Palestine's UN Membership

Though they don’t have a full membership yet, they are now recognised to join and extend rights.

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