Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

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healthcare

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thankful

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Many Malaysians often find working locally challenging due to a weak currency and lower wages, prompting them to seek better opportunities abroad.
Though overseas jobs may seem attractive with stronger economies and higher pay, the grass isn&rsquo;t always greener on the other side. It&rsquo;s easy to overlook the benefits we enjoy at home until circumstances bring them into sharp focus.
This harsh truth became evident for a Malaysian cancer patient who, after working in Singapore, faced the crippling financial burden of healthcare abroad.
Patient Cries After Finding Out MRI Scans Is Free
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0ece5771a8396f4a154ed1168e38bc6a6e1a5c1b3eb6705a63339026efd3df0c" />
Malaysia's public healthcare system is often praised for being one of the most affordable, offering quality medical treatment despite challenges like staff shortages and long waiting times, which frequently make headlines.
Recently, clinical oncologist Dr. Nazeera Nasir shared on X a poignant encounter with a local cancer patient who was forced to quit his job due to the financial strain of covering his treatment in Singapore.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Met a Malaysian cancer patient who worked in Singapore and had to pay out of pocket for treatment. Money ran out, so he had to quit his job and return home. Today, we saw him and told him he needs an MRI. He asked me how much the scan. When I told him it's free, he cried 🥲
&mdash; Nazeera Nasir 🇵🇸🕊️ (@nzranasr) <a href="https://twitter.com/nzranasr/status/1825407354663518464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2024</a></blockquote>

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In her tweet, Dr. Nazeera shared that the man had been paying for his treatment in Singapore but returned to Malaysia after his funds ran out. During their meeting, she informed him that he needed an MRI, prompting him to ask about the cost. When she told him that the MRI scan was free, he broke down in tears.
In Singapore, an MRI can be prohibitively expensive, so being told that the procedure was free understandably left him overwhelmed with emotion. This powerful moment underscores the stark contrast between healthcare systems and the financial burdens they impose.
For many Malaysians, healthcare is often criticised for its inefficiencies, yet it remains accessible and relatively affordable&mdash;an advantage not guaranteed in many other parts of the world.
Malaysians Thankful For Our Affordable Healthcare System
While many understand the importance of having medical or life insurance, one thing commenters overwhelmingly agree on is that we should never take our healthcare system for granted. Following the doctor&rsquo;s tweet, which sparked online discussions, many people shared their own reflections on the value of our healthcare system.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Syukur jadi rakyat Malaysia. I've been to other countries where health care is just not affordable or non existent.
&mdash; Ooi Beng Cheang (@luxentX) <a href="https://twitter.com/luxentX/status/1825819523037135082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
... 𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝐼 𝑡𝑜𝑙𝑑 ℎ𝑖𝑚 𝑖𝑡'𝑠 𝑓𝑟𝑒𝑒, ℎ𝑒 𝑐𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑑 Hanya mereka yang melalui sahaja can truly appreciate the benefits we as Malaysians enjoy. Our healthcare system is far from perfect, and at times annoyingly inefficient. But it's mostly free.
&mdash; AbahAtok (@zainisaari) <a href="https://twitter.com/zainisaari/status/1825424878247534829?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
I know his feeling when my late son was in PICU for 78 days. The day cashier printed out the long receipt and wrote 0, and told us to "safely bring our son home" for his last breath. 9 years government took care of him.
&mdash; My World in a Tweet (@Real_VinceChin) <a href="https://twitter.com/Real_VinceChin/status/1825487689736749209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2024</a></blockquote>

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Meanwhile, other netizens highlighted the stark contrast in healthcare costs in Singapore, where expenses can reach staggering levels.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Only Singaporeans and its PRs are covered by the Medisave/Medifund or Medishield insurance program. And very rarely they dish out their PR to foreigners. Non Singaporeans if they do get sick there unfortunately have to fork out quite substantial amount of money to pay for the&hellip;
&mdash; FAB-3000 (@0nly_FABs) <a href="https://twitter.com/0nly_FABs/status/1825420862037856350?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Like when I tell people "I can't afford to get sick", I truly mean it. Please don't even go near me with a "cold", it costs me $70-100 just to go to a regular doctor.
&mdash; Sun of the Endless (@catlirium) <a href="https://twitter.com/catlirium/status/1825444609327350019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2024</a></blockquote>

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Are Most Of Our Healthcare In Malaysia Actually Free?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3675e5c7ba121b337e1eb0144e84192434370192779f434b0ab0111f4b46760b" />
While reviewing the comments, some netizens questioned how the MRI scan could be free. To clarify, MRI scan fees at public hospitals are considerably lower than at private hospitals. The exact cost varies depending on the hospital, the type of scan required, and the patient&rsquo;s eligibility for subsidies.
Subsidies and Entitlements for General Medical Services:
B40 Group:
B40 refers to the Bottom 40% income group in Malaysia. Patients in this income bracket are often entitled to additional subsidies for general medical services in government hospitals. This can include reduced fees for consultations, hospital stays, surgeries, and medications. In some cases, essential services may be provided for free, particularly for those facing financial hardship.
Civil Servants and Government Pensioners:
Civil servants, government pensioners, and their immediate dependents are generally entitled to free or significantly reduced-cost healthcare services in government hospitals. This benefit covers a wide range of medical services, including outpatient care, specialist consultations, surgeries, and hospitalization. This entitlement is part of the benefits package provided to government employees.
Senior Citizens and Disabled Individuals (OKU):
Senior citizens (typically aged 60 and above) and registered persons with disabilities (OKU - Orang Kurang Upaya) are often entitled to free or further subsidized medical services in government hospitals. This includes routine check-ups, specialist consultations, surgeries, and other essential healthcare services. The goal is to ensure that these vulnerable groups have access to the healthcare they need without financial barriers.
Welfare Recipients:
Individuals who receive financial assistance through government welfare programs may be entitled to free medical services in government hospitals. This typically covers basic healthcare services such as consultations, medications, and hospital stays. The social welfare department within the hospital usually assesses these patients to determine their eligibility for free care.
Low-Income Patients:
Patients who can demonstrate financial hardship may qualify for additional subsidies or fee waivers for general medical services. This is typically assessed on a case-by-case basis by the hospital&rsquo;s social welfare department. These patients might receive free or further reduced-cost services depending on their financial situation.
General Public:
The general public is required to pay subsidized fees for medical services in government hospitals. These fees are relatively low compared to private healthcare providers, making healthcare accessible to most Malaysians. Services such as outpatient consultations, basic surgeries, and hospital stays are all available at a fraction of the cost in private hospitals.
Referral System:
To access specialist care or advanced treatments in government hospitals, patients generally need a referral from a government doctor or a primary healthcare provider. This referral system ensures that resources are allocated efficiently and that patients receive the appropriate level of care based on their medical needs.
Preventive and Public Health Services:
The Malaysian government also provides a range of preventive and public health services for free or at minimal cost, including immunizations, maternal and child health services, health screenings, and public health campaigns. These services are aimed at improving the overall health of the population and are widely available at government clinics and hospitals.
Emergency Services:
Emergency services, including ambulance services provided by government hospitals, are often free or come with a minimal charge, especially when they are used to transport patients to a government healthcare facility. Emergency rooms in government hospitals provide critical care at highly subsidized rates.
Given the affordability of our healthcare system, it&rsquo;s crucial for Malaysians to appreciate its value rather than criticize it. For example, a man in Johor paid just RM258 for his wife&rsquo;s brain surgery after a three-week hospital stay and expressed deep gratitude for the government facilities. This highlights the importance of recognising and valuing the benefits of our healthcare system in times of need.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/3235/malaysian-commends-government-healthcare-pays-rm258-for-wifes-brain-surgery-and-3-week-admission">Malaysian Commends Government Healthcare: Pays RM258 For Wife's Brain Surgery And 3-Week Admission</a>
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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Whatever we may say about our government, we should be thankful for our affordable healthcare system.

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M’sian Cancer Patient Moved to Tears After Learning MRI Scans Are FREE In M’sia Following Costly Struggles In SG

From Friday 23 May to Wednesday 28 May 2025, Kuala Lumpur will host the 46th ASEAN Summit, drawing heads of government, foreign ministers, and an entourage of officials and media. As with every major summit, the capital&rsquo;s road network will be organised around VIP motorcades and tight security perimeters. Below is an extended briefing on how the week will unfold, the exact corridors affected, and what residents can do to stay mobile.
The scale of the operation
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9ea11bfb1b53cf6a3922f93d4a743c6c64a3a045864315beafdbfa26bc387a37" />
Bukit Aman&rsquo;s Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) director Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri&nbsp;has committed 789 personnel to the week‑long task. Officers will be supported by:
<ul>
<li>36 escort cars for heads of delegation</li>
<li>313 high‑powered motorcycles for outriders and rolling roadblocks</li>
<li>190 standard patrol bikes to plug gaps and manage diversions</li>
<li>Tow‑trucks on immediate standby, ready to remove any vehicle that blocks an emergency lane or junction</li>
</ul>
Traffic control teams will move into position 30 minutes before every scheduled convoy, shutting slip‑roads and junctions in &ldquo;waves&rdquo; rather than leaving closures in place all day. A full dress rehearsal on Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 May will let planners fine‑tune timings before foreign leaders begin arriving on 23 May.
Expressways under rolling closure:
<ul>
<li>North-South Expressway (Sungai Buloh to City Centre)</li>
<li>MEX Expressway</li>
<li>KL-Seremban Expressway</li>
<li>ELITE Expressway (KLIA to Putrajaya)</li>
<li>Guthrie Expressway</li>
<li>NKVE (Subang to Jalan Duta)</li>
</ul>
* Closures are intermittent. When a convoy is clear, lanes reopen until the next VIP movement.
City arteries most affected
<ul>
<li>Jalan Tun Abdul Razak &amp; Jalan Ampang &ndash; primary KLCC approaches</li>
<li>Jalan Sultan Ismail, Jalan Bukit Bintang &amp; Jalan Imbi &ndash; hotel belt and shopping district</li>
<li>Jalan Parlimen &amp; Jalan Kuching &ndash; link to Istana Negara</li>
<li>Jalan Istana &amp; Jalan Damansara &ndash; inbound from KL‑Seremban Expressway</li>
<li>Junctions around Jalan P. Ramlee, Jalan Perak, Jalan Stonor and Persiaran KLCC will close repeatedly on 26&ndash;27 May when leaders shuttle between hotels and summit halls.</li>
</ul>
Commercial lorries are prohibited from entering the city centre during the dual rush‑hours 06:30&ndash;07:30 and 16:30&ndash;19:30. Enforcement officers warn that any vehicle parked on verges or double‑parked near hotels will be towed immediately.
Day‑by‑day Breakdown 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7118e47960915c071ed954970319dbde0e261df2745a01cf76ffda2814568b07" />
Road Closures and Diversions Schedule. May 23-May 26 (Arrival of foreign delegates).
Routes: KLIA/Subang Air Force to:
<ul>
<li>Lebuh KLIA</li>
<li>Elite Expressway (KLIA-Putrajaya)</li>
<li>NKVE (Subang-Jalan Duta)</li>
<li>Guthrie Expressway</li>
<li>North-South Expressway (Sungai Buloh-City Centre)</li>
<li>MEX Expressway</li>
<li>KL-Seremban Expressway</li>
<li>Lingkaran Putrajaya</li>
<li>Jalan Istana</li>
<li>Jalan Damansara</li>
<li>Jalan Tun Abdul Razak</li>
<li>Jalan Ampang</li>
<li>Jalan Sultan Ismail</li>
<li>Jalan Bukit Bintang</li>
<li>Jalan Imbi</li>
<li>Jalan Parlimen</li>
<li>Jalan Kuching</li>
</ul>
May 26
<ul>
<li>From hotels to KLCC: 8am until arrivals are completed</li>
<li>From KLCC to hotels: 5.30pm until departure to hotels is completed</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Ampang / Jalan P. Ramlee</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Sultan Ismail / Jalan P. Ramlee</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Perak / Jalan P. Ramlee</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Perak / Jalan Pinang</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Stonor / Jalan Kia Peng</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Stonor / Persiaran KLCC</li>
</ul>
May 27
8am-10.30am (from hotels to KLCC)
<ul>
<li>Junction of Jalan Ampang / Jalan P. Ramlee</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Sultan Ismail / Jalan P. Ramlee</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Perak / Jalan P. Ramlee</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Perak / Jalan Pinang</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Stonor / Jalan Kia Peng</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Stonor / Persiaran KLCC</li>
</ul>
11.45am-1pm (KLCC to Istana Negara)
<ul>
<li>Along Jalan Tun Razak</li>
<li>Along Jalan Mahameru</li>
<li>Along Jalan Sultan Abdul Halim</li>
</ul>
1.45pm-3pm (Istana Negara-KLCC)
<ul>
<li>Along Jalan Parlimen/Jalan Kuching</li>
<li>Along Jalan Sultan Ismail</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Sultan Ismail / Jalan P. Ramlee</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Perak / Jalan P. Ramlee</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Perak / Jalan Pinang</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Stonor / Jalan Kia Peng</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Stonor / Persiaran KLCC</li>
</ul>
May 28&nbsp;(8am onwards, from hotels to KLIA/Subang Air Force Base)
<ul>
<li>Lebuh KLIA</li>
<li>Elite Expressway (KLIA-Putrajaya)</li>
<li>NKVE (Subang-Jalan Duta)</li>
<li>Guthrie Expressway</li>
<li>North-South Expressway (Sungai Buloh-City Centre)</li>
<li>MEX Expressway</li>
<li>KL-Seremban Expressway</li>
<li>Lingkaran Putrajaya</li>
<li>Jalan Istana</li>
<li>Jalan Damansara</li>
<li>Jalan Tun Abdul Razak</li>
<li>Jalan Ampang</li>
<li>Jalan Sultan Ismail</li>
<li>Jalan Bukit Bintang</li>
<li>Jalan Imbi</li>
<li>Jalan Parlimen</li>
</ul>
Public transport Is Your Best Friend 
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d358d5450eec282d4c692bd248e0477e3045c5ae7d8461e2dbe38b307e168fb3" />
Rapid KL confirms that LRT, MRT, Monorail and BRT services will run their normal weekday frequencies, with standby trains if platforms crowd. KLCC, Bukit Bintang, Ampang Park, Masjid Jamek and KL Sentral stations place commuters within a short walk of offices while sidestepping road closures.
Tip: use the MRT Putrajaya Line for journeys parallel to the ELITE and MEX corridors; stations such as Cyberjaya City Centre and Putrajaya Sentral will be unaffected by summit traffic.
71 Schools Move To Lessons Online
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3c00ea50ccc62912538046d89eb98d83da7bc05a7f4f360a4a920170e5689eb6" />
The Education Ministry has announced that 71 schools across Kuala Lumpur and Selangor will switch to home‑based learning (PdPR) from 26 to 28 May 2025 to coincide with the 46th ASEAN Summit.
In a <a href="https://www.moe.gov.my/storage/files/shares/Kenyataan%20Media/KM2025/KM%20KPM%20Beri%20Kebenaran%20Kepada%2071%20Buah%20Sekolah%20Di%20Kuala%20Lumpur%20%26%20Selangor%20Laksana%20PDPR%20Bersempena%20Penganjuran%20Asean%2C%20Pastikan%20Pembelajaran%20%26%20Kesejahteraan%20Terpelihara.pdf">statement</a>, the ministry said the schools were selected because anticipated road blocks and strict security cordons could make it difficult for pupils and staff to reach their campuses. The short‑term move to PdPR is intended to keep teaching on track throughout the summit.
Parents, guardians, teachers and students are urged to monitor their school&rsquo;s official channels for detailed timetables and log‑in instructions. Drawing on the remote‑learning practices refined during the COVID‑19 years, the ministry is confident that classes can proceed smoothly while safeguarding everyone&rsquo;s welfare.
The summit will bring foreign dignitaries to the capital, triggering extensive security measures and traffic controls in and around Kuala Lumpur.
Below is the full list of affected schools:
<ol>
<li>SK Lembah Subang</li>
<li>SK Assunta (Satu)</li>
<li>SK (L) Bukit Bintang</li>
<li>SK Methodist, PJ</li>
<li>SK Jalan Selangor (Satu)</li>
<li>SK 2 Jalan Selangor</li>
<li>SK Satu Sultan Alam Shah</li>
<li>SK 2 Sultan Alam Shah</li>
<li>SK Sungei Way</li>
<li>SJK(T) Vivekananda</li>
<li>SMK Sri Utama</li>
<li>SMK Lembah Subang</li>
<li>SMK Assunta</li>
<li>SMK (L) Bukit Bintang</li>
<li>SMK Katholik</li>
<li>SMK La Salle, PJ</li>
<li>SMK Sultan Abdul Samad</li>
<li>SMK (P) Tmn Petaling</li>
<li>SK TUDM Subang</li>
<li>SK TTDI Jaya</li>
<li>SK Bukit Jelutong</li>
<li>SMK TTDI Jaya</li>
<li>SMK Shah Alam</li>
<li>SMK Bukit Jelutong</li>
<li>SK Cyberjaya</li>
<li>SK Taman Putra Perdana</li>
<li>SK Taman Putra Perdana 2</li>
<li>SJK (C) Union</li>
<li>SMK Cyberjaya</li>
<li>SMK Putra Perdana</li>
<li>SMK Convent Bukit Nanas</li>
<li>SMK Puteri Wilayah</li>
<li>SMK Padang Tembak</li>
<li>SMK Puteri Ampang</li>
<li>SMK Seri Ampang</li>
<li>SMK Puteri Titiwangsa</li>
<li>SMK Seri Titiwangsa</li>
<li>St John's Institution</li>
<li>SK Convent 1 dan 2 Bukit Nanas</li>
<li>SK St John 1</li>
<li>SJKC Nan Kai</li>
<li>SK Kg Bharu</li>
<li>SK Pendidikan Khas Kg Bharu</li>
<li>SJKT Jalan Fletcher</li>
<li>SK Jalan Kuantan 2</li>
<li>SK Padang Tembak 1</li>
<li>SK Padang Tembak 2</li>
<li>SK Polis Depot</li>
<li>SK Jalan Gurney 1</li>
<li>SK Jalan Gurney 2</li>
<li>SK Jalan Raja Muda</li>
<li>SJKC Lai Meng</li>
<li>SMK Maxwell</li>
<li>SMK Kiaramas</li>
<li>SJKT Appar</li>
<li>SJKC Chung Kwok</li>
<li>SK (L) Jalan Batu</li>
<li>SK(P) Jln Batu Sentul</li>
<li>SK Pendidikan Khas Jln Batu</li>
<li>SK Pendidikan Khas Jalan Peel, Taman Maluri</li>
<li>SK Kiaramas</li>
<li>SMK (P) Bandaraya</li>
<li>SMK (P) Jalan Pudu</li>
<li>SMK (P) Methodist Kl</li>
<li>SJKC Kuen Cheng 1</li>
<li>SK Jalan Hang Tuah</li>
<li>SK (P) Pudu</li>
<li>SJKC Kung Min</li>
<li>SK Jalan Pasar</li>
<li>SK Dato Abu Bakar</li>
<li>SK Sultan Hishamuddin Alam</li>
</ol>
Looking back and looking ahead
Malaysia last held an in‑person ASEAN Summit in 2015. Back then, roadblocks annoyed some drivers but kept the VIP convoys safe. Police are using that same plan again, now helped by live traffic data and lessons learned during the pandemic. By Wednesday night, 28 May, the motorcades will be gone and Kuala Lumpur drivers can use their usual routes again.
Until then, stay patient. A bit of forward planning&mdash;especially using trains&mdash;will let the city welcome its guests without trapping locals in jams.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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With 71 schools ordered to move online, brace yourself for knotty summit week traffic.

709934614331b0532abecc3519d5deba204f10ed2f67ec5b92ae583de89d2a18

ASEAN Summit Road Closures: What Klang Valley Residents Need To Know

Anyone who travels with a Malay Bin, a Chinese double name, or an Indian A/L prefix knows the peril of online forms built for Western &ldquo;first name / last name&rdquo; conventions. If a single word is misplaced, the boarding system flags a mismatch, frontline staff must edit the ticket by hand, and passengers sometimes miss their flight. After years of counter complaints, Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia have quietly rebuilt their booking pages to recognise the naming patterns most common across Southeast Asia.
The timing is deliberate. Both carriers are leaning hard into regional growth: AirAsia has restored almost 100 per cent of its pre‑pandemic network, and Malaysia Airlines has just announced new codeshares into Indochina. More passengers from non‑Western naming traditions means a higher risk of typos&mdash;unless the form is fool‑proof.
How Each Airline Now Reads Your Passport 
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3d08837956174ac495a085f9359430ed3185bfda3016fd71d635cf5ea8f00e5c" />
Malaysia Airlines still presents two fields, labelled &ldquo;First &amp; Middle Name&rdquo; and &ldquo;Last Name / Surname&rdquo;, but the airline now directs passengers to copy the machine‑readable zone (MRZ)&mdash;the two lines of capital letters at the foot of the passport photo‑page&mdash;exactly as printed. The revised help page comes with half a dozen illustrated examples:
<ul>
<li>Malay names that include Bin, Binti or Anak: those words move into the surname box.</li>
<li>Chinese and Vietnamese names: the family name, which often appears first on the passport, belongs in the surname field even if it looks &ldquo;out of order&rdquo; to English eyes.</li>
<li>Double‑barrelled Indian names: place every component that follows the father&rsquo;s name into the given‑name box, provided the MRZ clusters them together.</li>
</ul>
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7238d188cce6d55fbcb8fcba0f5efaf54bb09ef847c7abef622eb6b4308be91d" />
AirAsia adopts nearly identical logic, relabelling its boxes &ldquo;Given Name&rdquo; and &ldquo;Family Name / Surname&rdquo;. The low‑cost carrier adds one crucial note for Malaysian Indians: the prefixes A/L (anak lelaki) and A/P (anak perempuan) are no longer required in either field because they do not appear in the MRZ.
Both airlines stress that spacing and capital letters are less important than reproducing the string of letters in the correct sequence. A perfect match means the electronic ticket will align with immigration databases worldwide, removing the need for manual overrides.
Two Worked Examples
Passport line 1: P&lt;MYSVINCENT&lt;TAN&lt;MING&lt;BAN Ticket entry: Surname/Family: TAN&emsp;|&emsp;Given/First &amp; Middle: MINGBANVINCENT
Passport line 2: P&lt;MYS&nbsp;MOHD&lt;ALI&lt;AHMAD&lt;BIN&lt;MOHD&lt;ABU Ticket entry: Surname/Family: BINMOHDABU&emsp;|&emsp;Given/First &amp; Middle: MOHDALIAHMAD
The key is to lift the characters exactly as they appear, ignoring the visual order of names on the biographical page.
What About Bookings Already Made?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/93886d0dccd7e9fa12feacd93a355e7d21cb1e735f81c60aae347fd87570f961" />
Malaysia Airlines confirms that the fresh rules are forward‑looking only: travellers with tickets issued under the old format can fly as planned. AirAsia echoes that reassurance. Should a legacy booking need a voluntary date change, the name field will update automatically in the new style once the ticket is re‑issued.
Wider Benefits: Fewer Queues, Lower Costs
Airline insiders say name mismatches generate thousands of manual corrections each month, tying up call‑centre agents and check‑in counters. Each fix also costs the carrier a small fee because the booking must be re‑opened in a global distribution system. By training passengers to mirror the MRZ, Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia expect fewer errors, shorter queues, and a noticeable saving on backend costs.
The move has earned quiet praise from travel agents who specialise in multi‑city itineraries. &ldquo;We spend an inordinate amount of time educating clients about name order,&rdquo; says Kuala Lumpur‑based consultant Elaine Tew. &ldquo;Having the airlines spell it out with pictures is a big win for everyone.&rdquo;
Practical Tips Before You Click &ldquo;Buy&rdquo;
<ol>
<li>Keep your passport open beside the keyboard and read from the MRZ, not the printed name block.</li>
<li>Ignore punctuation: slashes, commas and apostrophes have no place in the entry fields.</li>
<li>Check every letter before you pay; once the ticket is issued, name edits can still attract fees.</li>
<li>Travelling as a family? Copy each child&rsquo;s MRZ as well&mdash;no two passports are formatted exactly alike.</li>
</ol>
Looking Ahead
With their revised name policies, Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia have addressed one of the most persistent friction points in regional travel. The next frontier, both carriers hint, is to embed the same logic in their mobile apps and self‑service kiosks. Until then, the humble MRZ remains the traveller&rsquo;s best friend: follow its all‑caps guidance, and your next journey should begin with a wave at the e‑gate rather than an apology at the check‑in desk.
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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New guidelines finally take the guess work out of Southeast Asian names.

2f7307b91bd881c592ef4d783561f9f0c1a191125020474738edd8e57bc4e3c8

Malaysia Airlines And AirAsia Overhaul Name‑Entry Rules To End Booking Confusion

Malaysia&rsquo;s Health Ministry has assured the public that the country&rsquo;s Covid-19 situation remains under control, even as neighbouring countries like Thailand, Singapore, and Taiwan record significant spikes in new infections.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad confirmed that Malaysia is averaging around 600 cases a week, a figure that remains well below the national alert threshold. Notably, no Covid-19-related deaths have been reported in Malaysia so far in 2025.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d3b0f26a514bd3e1a0d439764e2f0a076810ae675e936c597afe5b8b2326d99e" />
From January to 10 May, Malaysia recorded a cumulative 11,727 Covid-19 cases, with the highest numbers logged at the beginning of the year. According to the Health Ministry&rsquo;s Disease Control Division, the country reported 960 cases in the first epidemiological week (EW1) of 2025, followed by 1,229 cases in both EW2 and EW3. Since then, the trend has seen a continuous decline, with only 210 cases reported in EW15. Over the last four weeks (EW16 to EW19), the weekly average has stabilised around 600 cases.
The National Crisis Preparedness and Response Centre (CPRC) continues to carry out ongoing risk assessments to ensure Malaysia is prepared for any potential developments. The ministry has reiterated that current figures remain safely below the warning threshold and that all appropriate control measures are in place.
Rising Cases in Thailand, Singapore, and Taiwan
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bf5c9ec66d022ad03d4280fb0b2ead1fb079c83750e28cd6ee666abf297d7b24" />
In contrast, countries across the region are witnessing renewed surges. Thailand recorded 16,607 new cases and six deaths between 4 and 10 May, while Singapore saw an increase from 11,100 to 14,200 cases during the week of 27 April to 3 May, with 133 hospitalisations reported. Taiwan, meanwhile, reported 10,000 new cases during the week of 4 to 10 May, including six deaths and 34 severe cases.
Experts believe that the rise in regional cases can be attributed to factors such as waning immunity, higher rates of travel, and reduced levels of testing. Despite this, the Health Ministry stressed that the domestic situation remains under control and that the public should not be alarmed.
No More Quarantine, But Health Measures Still Encouraged
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8d317a8efc7b4fe1aaf481045a8555e9bc5564cf749c3fc613d85c4d0e895699" />
Although Covid-19 continues to be classified as a notifiable infectious disease under Malaysia&rsquo;s Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342), the country has shifted away from pandemic-era emergency measures.
On 1 May 2025, the government officially revoked the declaration that had classified all states and federal territories as infected local areas. This marked a major policy shift, more than five years after the initial measures were introduced.
Individuals who test positive for Covid-19 are no longer required to undergo quarantine or report their cases through the MySejahtera app. However, health authorities still advise the public to practise self-preventive behaviours, such as seeking prompt medical treatment if symptomatic, protecting vulnerable groups, and wearing face masks in crowded or poorly ventilated areas.
Guidelines for Those Who Test Positive
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b77aee2b0ecb285b2de8a3e754cc24c0b00f64db0bb221c21944eebb966df27d" />
While most infections today are less severe than in previous waves&mdash;largely due to vaccinations and acquired immunity&mdash;public health specialists still recommend vigilance. Professor Dr Sharifa Wan Ezat Puteh of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) noted that many new cases now resemble upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) with mild symptoms. However, she warned that individuals with weakened immune systems, particularly the elderly, may require antiviral medication and medical supervision.
According to the Health Ministry&rsquo;s clinical guidelines, Covid-19 patients categorised under stages 2 and 3 are eligible for treatment with the antiviral Paxlovid. Antigen rapid test kits remain available at pharmacies, and self-testing is still encouraged for anyone experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms.
Former Malaysian Association of Public Health Physicians president Datuk Dr Zainal Ariffin Omar emphasised that although testing and isolation are no longer mandatory, maintaining basic health precautions is still prudent, especially in healthcare settings.
Monitoring Systems and Public Responsibility
The Health Ministry continues to rely on both formal and informal surveillance systems, including e-Notification reporting by healthcare providers and a &ldquo;rumour surveillance&rdquo; mechanism that tracks unofficial reports from the public, media, and other sources. These systems help facilitate early detection and swift responses to emerging clusters or outbreaks.
In line with the government&rsquo;s Madani values of wellbeing and inclusivity, the ministry has pledged to provide timely updates on any public health risks.
The public is strongly encouraged to remain cautious, prioritise personal health, and take proactive steps to protect themselves and those around them. High-risk individuals, including the elderly and those with chronic conditions, are advised to keep their vaccinations up to date to minimise the risk of severe complications.
For the latest updates and guidance, the public may visit the Health Ministry&rsquo;s official website at <a href="http://www.moh.gov.my">www.moh.gov.my</a>.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Domestic cases dip while the region grapples with fresh spikes.

6419fc096c26646aee87b07fada23d39534703115b22849b236229ec0357c6dd

Malaysia Keeps Covid-19 Situation In Check As Regional Cases Surge

Malaysian badminton fans had every reason to celebrate after a spectacular Sunday at Bangkok&rsquo;s Nimibutr Stadium, where the nation&rsquo;s top doubles pairs each clinched gold and walked away with significant prize money. The dynamic men&rsquo;s duo Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik and the formidable women&rsquo;s pairing Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah secured their titles at the TOYOTA Thailand Open 2025, a Super 500 event, claiming US$37,525 (~ RM161,191) each. Thanks to Malaysia&rsquo;s tax-free policy on sporting prizes and the Badminton Association of Malaysia&rsquo;s (BAM) practice of not taking a levy, the entire sum remains with the players.
Historic Triumph for Pearly-Thinaah: Silencing Critics with Glory
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f9bc26ac8ecf459bbe4ca5210e60d28c00adda342f5b36813c880def6dedab62" />
When Pearly Tan and M. Thinaah closed out a composed 21‑16, 21‑17 win over South Korea&rsquo;s Jeong Na‑eun and Lee Yeon‑woo, they became the first Malaysian women ever to lift the Thailand Open women&rsquo;s doubles trophy since the event began in 1984. The triumph adds to a roll‑call that already includes the Swiss Open 2021, French Open 2022 and Hong Kong Open 2024, confirming the world No. 4 pair as serial big‑stage performers.
Their build‑up had been clouded by whispers that they might quit the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) to turn professional, plus sniping over a renegotiated salary deal. Sunday&rsquo;s performance was an emphatic answer: cool heads, relentless defence and a willingness to dictate the front court.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve not had the smoothest start to the year, but we kept faith in each other,&rdquo; Thinaah told the BWF. &ldquo;This win is proof that we&rsquo;re progressing, even if the outside noise says otherwise.&rdquo;
Guided courtside by coach Rosman Razak, the pair seized the initiative early in both games, varying pace and angles to blunt the Koreans&rsquo; flat drives. Even a late second‑game surge from Jeong and Lee was calmly snuffed out.
Celebrations were necessarily brief; the duo boarded the late flight to Kuala Lumpur that evening. On Tuesday they open their Malaysia Masters campaign against Hong Kong&rsquo;s Fan Ka Yan and Yau Mau Ying&mdash;an unheard‑of pairing but one the Malaysians refuse to underestimate. &ldquo;We start from zero again,&rdquo; Pearly insisted. The home crowd will expect nothing less than another deep run, especially with Olympic qualification points up for grabs and contract negotiations still simmering.
Aaron-Wooi Yik End 15-Year Men&rsquo;s Doubles Title Drought
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/478d0786e8e61a99463d16053ff17162b538647285b22007d45d050a7abbc601" />
If the women delivered clinical mastery, the men supplied pure theatre. Olympic bronze‑medallists Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik were pushed to the brink by Denmark&rsquo;s unseeded youngsters William Kryger Boe and Christian Faust Kjaer, finally prevailing 20‑22, 21‑17, 21‑12 after 72 punishing minutes. The victory ends Malaysia&rsquo;s 15‑year wait for a men&rsquo;s doubles title here&mdash;the last being Chan Peng Soon and Lim Khim Wah in 2009.
Curiously, large sections of the Thai crowd roared for the Danes, a reaction to Aaron‑Wooi Yik having bundled out local favourites Kittinupong Kedren and Dechapol Puavaranukroh in the semi‑finals. The Malaysians responded with steely resolve, surviving a first‑game loss marked by breathtaking 40‑plus‑shot rallies, then tightening their defensive blocks to turn the tide.
&ldquo;Today we&rsquo;re champions; tomorrow we&rsquo;re back to square one,&rdquo; Aaron commented, already resetting focus for Kuala Lumpur. &ldquo;We need to prove this form at the Malaysia Masters.&rdquo;
The pair credited newfound aggression to the influence of their recently appointed coach, former Indonesian great Hendra Setiawan. &ldquo;We wanted to show the new coach what we&rsquo;re capable of,&rdquo; Wooi Yik noted. The confirmation could not be clearer: alongside last month&rsquo;s Asian Championships gold, this success suggests the partnership has rediscovered the spark that earned Olympic bronze in Tokyo.
Prize Money and Momentum: A Winning Formula for Malaysia
Both pairs will return home to prepare for the upcoming PERODUA Malaysia Masters 2025, scheduled to take place from 20 to 25 May at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil. This home tournament presents another crucial Super 500 event where the Malaysian players are expected to perform strongly, buoyed by recent successes.
The US$37,525 (~ RM161,191) prize for each pair represents not just a financial reward but also a confidence boost and important ranking points. Malaysia&rsquo;s tax exemption on sporting earnings means these winnings go entirely to the players, unlike in some countries where cuts or taxes diminish the haul. Beyond the monetary gain, the victories signal growing momentum as the badminton calendar heats up, with the 2024 Paris Olympic cycle concluded and the qualification process for Los Angeles 2028 already underway.
Looking Ahead: The Road to the Malaysia Masters and Beyond
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c8d7f2d2ad3bcd88bf983434b09a57d4cb584126fbc2fc4e8c502fa6ecba2b89" />
While the Thailand Open triumphs have provided a significant lift, both pairs remain grounded and focused on the challenges ahead. Pearly-Thinaah acknowledged that celebrations will be brief as they return immediately to training, with the Malaysia Masters around the corner and more competitive pressure looming.
For Aaron and Wooi Yik, the mission is clear: maintain their form, protect their rankings, and continue to deliver on big stages. With BAM navigating coaching reshuffles and contract negotiations, the players&rsquo; unity and performance under pressure will be vital for Malaysia&rsquo;s badminton ambitions.
As Malaysia departs Thailand with double gold, the rewards extend beyond trophies and prize money. These wins enrich the nation&rsquo;s sporting pride, boost player confidence, and signal a promising trajectory towards future tournaments and the ultimate Olympic dream.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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With victories secured by both doubles pairings, attention now shifts to the PERODUA Malaysia Masters. 

17f2cea0b62d1c5dd59263aee033d370cd27bd2cc01235b6a9545057443bc3e2

Golden Glory: Malaysia Bags Double Gold At The 2025 Thailand Open

In a bizarre and brazen plot that reads more like a scripted Netflix thriller than a real-world crime, two Chinese students have been charged in Malaysia for staging a fake kidnapping in a bid to extort five million yuan (RM2.9 million) from one of their parents. The elaborate scheme has since unravelled into a cautionary tale involving deceit, international travel, and a courtroom reckoning.
A Theatrical Crime Gone Wrong
<video controls="controls" width="390" height="220">
	<source src="https://www.therakyatpost.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/My-Video.mp4" type="video/mp4" /></video>&nbsp;
The suspects &mdash; Ye Yingxi, 18, a student at the Singapore Institute of Management, and his alleged accomplice Zhang Runbao, 23, a student at the National University of Singapore (NUS) &mdash; thought they had devised a foolproof plan to swindle Ye&rsquo;s wealthy parents. On 2 May, the pair orchestrated a dramatic fake kidnapping at a hotel along Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman in Kuala Lumpur, replete with disturbing video evidence to support their act.
In the staged footage, Ye appeared half-naked, bound, gagged, and soaking wet &mdash; an apparent victim of waterboarding and abuse. To further sell the illusion, the alleged kidnappers claimed he had been beaten and strangled. Voice-changing software was reportedly used to create convincing phone calls demanding the ransom.
The intent was to terrify Ye&rsquo;s 40-year-old mother, Cheng Zhiwen &mdash; a successful businesswoman based in Dubai &mdash; into handing over millions for her son&rsquo;s &ldquo;safe return&rdquo;.
Family Falls for the Hoax, Then Calls Authorities
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/575a532f50b8d5b330b156b1c3780168c056214b808a47a79da4f1070f02a8fd" />
The emotional manipulation worked &mdash; at least at first. Cheng, believing her son was in mortal danger, flew from Dubai to Singapore and onward to Malaysia, where she lodged a police report and handed over the distressing videos. The Chinese Embassy was also alerted.
What followed was a large-scale investigation involving multiple Malaysian law enforcement agencies and the Singaporean authorities. With no signs of forced entry or abduction, suspicion began to mount. Immigration and travel records revealed that Ye had crossed into Malaysia via Johor Bahru voluntarily after reportedly playing online games in Singapore the day before the incident.
A Trail of Lies Leads to Arrests &amp; A Scam Rooted in Past Rejection
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/02eeef35950fcae06a6ed27d6ec9eb5456de447b050b5e0fc36b940a43d70f15" />
As investigators followed the trail, Zhang was arrested at Penang International Airport on 4 May. Ye was later found in Baling, Kedah, suffering from a leg injury. He claimed to have been released and sought help by contacting his grandfather in China from a local police station.
However, inconsistencies in Ye&rsquo;s story during police interviews led to further scrutiny. The entire kidnapping narrative soon began to fall apart under pressure, exposing the elaborate ruse for what it truly was &mdash; an attempted fraud.
According to reports, the idea may have stemmed from an earlier failed attempt to get money from family. Just two months prior, Ye had allegedly approached his grandfather with a claim that he had been duped in a cryptocurrency scam and requested 40,000 yuan (about RM23,900). When the elder refused to comply, Ye appeared to have escalated his tactics dramatically.
Legal Consequences and Courtroom Developments
&nbsp;<iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&amp;href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FChinaPressMY%2Fvideos%2F1191517042187121%2F&amp;show_text=false&amp;width=560&amp;t=0" width="560" height="314" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Both Ye and Zhang were formally charged in the Sessions Court in Kuala Lumpur. They face a primary charge under Section 511 of the Malaysian Penal Code for attempted cheating, which carries a sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a fine if convicted. An alternative charge under Section 417 &mdash; for committing fraud in concert &mdash; also hangs over them, which can carry a maximum of five years&rsquo; imprisonment or a fine.
During proceedings before Judge Azrul Darus, both students pleaded not guilty. Bail was set at RM30,000 each, with two sureties. The judge also ordered them to surrender their passports as part of the bail conditions. The case is scheduled for mention on 27 May.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Noor Syafina Radzuan is leading the case, while lawyers Ernie Sulastri Ahmad and Ramesh Sivakumar represent the accused.
The Final Act: A Costly Lesson in Consequences
From the luxurious promise of an international education to the cold confines of a Malaysian courtroom, the two students now face a harsh reality that no voice modulator or video editing trick can soften.
What may have seemed like an imaginative shortcut to wealth has turned into a grim legal battle &mdash; and potentially a decade-long prison sentence. In attempting to fake a crime, Ye and Zhang have found themselves caught in a real one.
Their story serves as a potent reminder that while deception may offer momentary gain, the fallout can be ruinously real. For these young men, their final exam might not be in lecture halls, but in the unforgiving lessons of the legal system.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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All that effort — just to scam their own family.

M’sian Cancer Patient Moved to Tears After Learning MRI Scans Are FREE In M’sia Following Costly Struggles In SG

Whatever we may say about our government, we should be thankful for our affordable healthcare system.

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Golden Glory: Malaysia Bags Double Gold At The 2025 Thailand Open

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ASEAN Summit Road Closures: What Klang Valley Residents Need To Know

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Golden Glory: Malaysia Bags Double Gold At The 2025 Thailand Open

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