Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Money

TVET

talent

relocation

stability

job opportunity

workforce

working abroad

migrate

Many Malaysians aspire to reach the pinnacle of success, which is why we&rsquo;re often driven by big ambitions, constantly seeking better opportunities, whether at home or abroad.
Given the current circumstances in Malaysia, it&rsquo;s no surprise that many graduates consider pursuing careers overseas. Reasons include the appeal of earning in a stronger currency, which can significantly boost savings back home, or the desire to gain valuable international experience, especially when opportunities can sometimes feel limited here.
Almost 2 Million Malaysians Relocate To Work Abroad
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/86db81ef7abe4eacecd9f7a18ef49281151e00f1c90abf88c4e1e02c3e7ff4c5" />
A recent report revealed that a striking 1.86 million Malaysian professionals have opted to move abroad, pursuing better career opportunities and personal development. This substantial outflow highlights the challenges local talent faces in finding fulfilling opportunities at home.
Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong, as reported by Sinar Harian, noted that this migration trend is outlined in the World Migration Report 2022 by the International Organization for Migration (IOM). According to the report, Malaysia&rsquo;s migration rate is 5.6% of the total population&mdash;significantly above the global average of 3.6%&mdash;translating to nearly 1.86 million Malaysians seeking futures abroad.
M&rsquo;sian Talents Divided Across Similar Countries
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/87ff315fe27dbba3334a9b366be1c3ee469ad91af6c7e89527bdeba05ca49999" />
Steven Sim provided insight into Malaysian migration patterns, highlighting the steady movement of professionals to countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada.
In the United States, for example, a large portion of Malaysians hold at least a Bachelor&rsquo;s degree and contribute their skills in fields such as management, business, science, arts, and professional services.
In the United Kingdom, many Malaysians work in sectors like management, healthcare, hospitality, and professional services, with most also holding at least a Bachelor&rsquo;s degree. Likewise, in Canada, a similar trend emerges, with Malaysians engaged in technical services, management, and healthcare sectors.
This data, collected from TalentCorp and the World Bank, will be further examined in upcoming studies that aim to provide detailed breakdowns of ethnicity, age, migration motivations, and key destinations for Malaysians from 2018 to 2024.
Putting Effort To Bring Out M&rsquo;sian Talents Home
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/61e8b24e87addc68712be89278eec8bfa6c9f88a136da2a78753310f4e54f8f6" />
Despite the substantial brain drain, the Ministry of Human Resources has been actively implementing initiatives to address the issue and attract Malaysians back home. A key initiative in this effort is the Returning Expert Programme (REP), aimed at encouraging Malaysians working abroad to return and contribute to national growth.
Since its launch in 2011, the REP has processed 11,124 applications and successfully facilitated the return of 2,011 skilled professionals to Malaysia. This programme provides attractive incentives, including income tax exemptions, excise duty waivers for vehicles, and permanent resident status for family members, making it easier for Malaysians and their families to settle back into the country.
Through these efforts, the government aspires not only to retain local talent but to also create a supportive and appealing environment that encourages Malaysians abroad to come home, ultimately strengthening Malaysia&rsquo;s workforce and enhancing its global competitiveness.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/378c1a14448abdf2847b1b191f94924644a28031dcbd0ebcb1538fcf9e7b8ad1" />
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/3899/johor-set-to-become-the-first-state-to-offer-rm4k-minimum-salary-for-skilled-tvet-graduates">Johor Set To Become The First State To Offer RM4k Minimum Salary For Skilled TVET Graduates</a>
In related news, Johor recently became the first state in Malaysia to roll out premium salary packages for skilled workers through its Talent Development Council (JTDC). This initiative targets graduates from technical and vocational education (TVET) programs, offering starting salaries between RM4,000 and RM5,000.
This move aims to address the trend of local graduates seeking higher-paying jobs in Singapore, where the minimum wage is around SD$1,500 (~RM4,977). By improving local job opportunities, Johor hopes to make in-state employment more appealing to skilled workers from the 220 TVET institutions across the region, ultimately retaining talent and boosting the state&rsquo;s economic growth.
There are many reasons why Malaysians choose to move abroad, but for most, the main motivation is the opportunity to grow their wealth in dynamic job markets that offer better progression and career development. Another significant factor, especially for adults, is the perceived political stability and lower levels of corruption in other countries, which often fosters a more favourable work environment.
While the government is making efforts to retain talent, only time will reveal whether these initiatives are enough to encourage Malaysians to build their careers at home. As the saying goes, &ldquo;Rome wasn&rsquo;t built in a day,&rdquo; so it may take time to see if staying in Malaysia ultimately becomes the better choice 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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Is Malaysia losing any economic value due to this trend? 

51cf216ccb67d0bd271443ac28c45e71c49029ffcb59850b58f5081fa21c6d43

Steven Sim Shares That Nearly 2 Mil M’sians Have Moved Abroad For Better Job Opportunities

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Scentify

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Oatside

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Rohto

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A 17-year-old British schoolboy has been missing for over a month after secretly boarding a flight to Malaysia without telling anyone, leaving his family devastated and desperate for answers. David Balisong, a top-performing A-Level student from Cheadle, Greater Manchester, was last seen on the morning of 6 June, when he left his family home under the pretence of going to school.
Instead, David quietly made his way to Manchester Airport, boarded a one-way flight to Kuala Lumpur, and has not been seen or heard from since. The teenager&rsquo;s sudden disappearance has shocked those who knew him &mdash; a quiet, high-achieving young man with no history of running away or behavioural issues.
His mother, Minerva Balisong, a 50-year-old critical care nurse, has made a heartfelt public appeal for David to get in touch, even just to confirm that he is alive. &ldquo;The emotion feels like a tsunami. We never saw this coming,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;We just want him to make contact. We&rsquo;re not angry &mdash; we love him more than he knows
No Warning Signs Before Departure
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/de878ec9815aa46001ff7f72ed685d15f8159529984e9964b37efc4f9d4a1220" />
David was midway through his A-Level exams at the time of his disappearance and had ambitions to study Computer Science at Manchester University, with dreams of one day working for NASA. According to his family, there were no warning signs leading up to his sudden departure.
&ldquo;He was healthy and happy. There was nothing wrong that we were aware of,&rdquo; said his mother. &ldquo;He is an ideal student and an ideal son. He&rsquo;s a homebody who always comes home. When he goes out, he asks for permission and keeps us updated.&rdquo;
On the day he vanished, David left home slightly earlier than usual &mdash; around 6.30am &mdash; and told his younger brother that he had &ldquo;some things to do at school.&rdquo; Unbeknownst to his family, he had packed his passport and headed straight to the airport to catch a 9.30am international flight.
Later that evening, when David failed to return home, his worried parents began making calls to the school and eventually discovered that his passport was missing. The next day, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that David had travelled alone and had entered Malaysia on a 90-day tourist visa.
At the time of his departure, David had only &pound;1,200 in his bank account, and the family says he has since switched off his phone and stopped replying to emails. Born in the UK to Filipino parents, David has no known connections or relatives in Malaysia, making his choice of destination even more perplexing.
Family Left Reeling and Now Preparing to Search in Malaysia
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2c088a76a6cf61c23a7c2fb75bca718142d716904d8d37e55e51c58bee44bd2b" />
The family, including David&rsquo;s father Lorenzo, 55, sister Faith, 16, and brother Daniel, 13, have been left in deep distress. They&rsquo;ve launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for travel, accommodation, and local support in Malaysia, where they hope to begin searching for David themselves.
&ldquo;We are doing everything we can to hold on and stay strong,&rdquo; said Minerva. &ldquo;We can&rsquo;t wait to hear from him or see him. If he doesn&rsquo;t want to return, that&rsquo;s his choice &mdash; but we just want to know that he&rsquo;s safe. That&rsquo;s all we need.&rdquo;
David&rsquo;s aunt, Tess Fulgencio, also took to Facebook to express her anguish: &ldquo;These have been the longest and hardest days our family has ever known &mdash; filled with waiting, searching, and holding on to hope. To the Stockport Police and GMP: thank you for your tireless efforts and commitment to bringing David home. Please know that your work means everything to us, even when words fall short.&rdquo;
The police continue to investigate the case and are urging anyone who may have information about David&rsquo;s whereabouts &mdash; either in the UK or Malaysia &mdash; to come forward. Witnesses or individuals with leads are encouraged to contact 101, quoting log number 3703 of 06/06/2025.
No Leads Yet, as Questions Mount Over Why He Left
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d04f7693d19af78c3059e1670a339a619e2b6ab9c34b40edc280a06dcac2e083" />
While authorities have confirmed his entry into Malaysia, no further sightings or credible leads have emerged in the weeks since. The case has puzzled both investigators and the wider public, with no clear motive or reasoning yet identified. Some have speculated that David may have been influenced by something or someone online, but nothing has been confirmed.
His family insists there were no signs of depression, abuse, or serious stress &mdash; beyond the usual pressure of exams &mdash; and have ruled out any known online grooming or radicalisation. &ldquo;He&rsquo;s a very logical, measured boy. This is so unlike him,&rdquo; said Minerva. &ldquo;We&rsquo;ve considered every possibility, but nothing makes sense. That&rsquo;s why this is so frightening.&rdquo;
The family&rsquo;s only hope now is that David will see the growing media coverage or the online fundraising campaign and reach out. &ldquo;We want him to know that he&rsquo;s loved, missed, and never alone,&rdquo; Minerva added.
As the 90-day visa period ticks down, and with no word from David, the family&rsquo;s concern is only growing. They are expected to arrive in Kuala Lumpur soon to begin a local search, speak to authorities, and retrace any steps their son may have taken.
A Painful Wait with No Answers
The Balisong family&rsquo;s story has touched many, drawing attention not just to their personal tragedy but also to broader questions about youth mental health, international travel security, and the pressures faced by high-achieving students. Still, for the family, it all comes down to one thing &mdash; David&rsquo;s safety.
&ldquo;No matter where you are, David &mdash; just let us know you&rsquo;re okay,&rdquo; Minerva pleaded. &ldquo;We don&rsquo;t need anything else. Just a message, anything. Please.&rdquo;
Anyone who may have seen David in Malaysia or has any information is urged to contact local authorities or Greater Manchester Police as soon as possible.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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A-star student missing for over a month with no contact. Heartbroken family pleads for signs that he’s alive.

354deb6b8aea324726edccbbf369d01ab0eb55c74e202bcfd71f742e5960fed4

British Teen Disappears After Secret Solo Flight To Malaysia

Malaysian K-pop fans have more to look forward to this year as rising boy group 82MAJOR (에이티투메이저) is officially set to return to Kuala Lumpur for their first full concert. After creating a buzz earlier this year with their fan meeting and press conference, the group is now scheduled to perform live on a much bigger scale &mdash; and the excitement is palpable among fans.
Back in February 2025, 82MAJOR visited Malaysia for the first time, holding a warm and intimate fan event at SEGi University in Kota Damansara. The event gave Malaysian fans their first close-up interaction with the members, who left a lasting impression with their stage presence, energy, and charm. The visit also included a press conference at Pavilion KL, which further boosted their local profile.
Who Are 82MAJOR?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/39703932d40cb647afdee1962a86445288e2efe2ae95ed1d098c58efafe88976" />
Emerging as one of the most promising new acts in K-pop, 82MAJOR is a six-member boy group under Great M Entertainment, officially debuting in October 2023. The group consists of charismatic members: Jungseok, Chanhyeok, Seokjun, Donghyeon, Yunho, and Yechan&mdash;each bringing distinct vocal tones, dance styles, and personalities to the group&rsquo;s growing appeal.
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Their debut single &ldquo;FIRST CLASS&rdquo; made an immediate impact with its bold concept and gritty hip-hop energy, setting them apart from more conventional rookie debuts. The track showcased their confidence, swagger, and tight choreography, earning them attention from both local fans and international audiences.
What&rsquo;s notable about 82MAJOR is their raw edge and performance-driven style, which taps into a global Gen Z audience hungry for authenticity and bold self-expression. The group has since released follow-up tracks like &ldquo;Sure Thing&rdquo; and &ldquo;Get it Hot&rdquo;, reinforcing their sound identity and stage charisma.
While still early in their career, 82MAJOR has been featured in several "Rookie to Watch" lists by Korean media outlets and are beginning to gain traction across social media and global K-pop platforms. Their potential for growth, combined with a fresh sound and striking visuals, positions them as a group to watch in the next wave of K-pop talent.
Following Their North American Success
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ebad64acaf013d14724353149de654d699243e39952a478611617f1a92bd63ba" />
82MAJOR has had a packed schedule in 2025, particularly with their &ldquo;82 SYNDROME&rdquo; North American tour, which began in May and covered 25 cities across the United States and Canada. The tour has played a major role in expanding their international reach, drawing in new fans with their powerful performances, captivating choreography, and on-stage charisma.
Their final North American performance will be held in Los Angeles on 19 July, marking the end of a two-month tour across major cities. After a brief break to recharge, the group is expected to begin preparations for their Asia tour, with Malaysia already locked in as one of the confirmed destinations.
Although a full list of Asia tour stops has not been officially released, Malaysian fans can rest assured knowing Kuala Lumpur is already on the schedule.
Concert Information &ndash; What We Know So Far
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0cc39f5315ac7d890ed33cdc536ea62cf96f51005f6d681a3be440832c4d1762" />
Here are the official details announced for 82MAJOR&rsquo;s highly anticipated concert in Kuala Lumpur:
82MAJOR&rsquo;s 82 SYNDROME Concert in Kuala Lumpur
<ul>
<li>Date: Saturday, 4 October 2025</li>
<li>Time: 7:00 PM</li>
<li>Venue: Idea Live Arena, Kuala Lumpur</li>
<li>Organiser: iMe Malaysia</li>
<li>Ticket Sales Platform: BookMyShow (ticketing details to be announced)</li>
</ul>
The concert is being organised by well-known promoter iMe Malaysia, which has a strong track record of bringing top-tier K-pop acts to Malaysian shores. Ticket pricing and seat map information will be released in the coming weeks, and fans are advised to stay tuned to official channels for timely updates.
Fan Anticipation at an All-Time High
This marks the group&rsquo;s first full concert in Malaysia, and it will be an entirely different experience compared to their earlier fan meeting. Instead of short segments and casual Q&amp;A sessions, fans can expect a high-energy, fully choreographed show, complete with a dynamic setlist, fan-favourite songs, and heartfelt moments with the crowd.
For many MAJORs, this is the long-awaited opportunity to see the boys in their element &mdash; delivering a concert that reflects their musical growth, stage confidence, and group chemistry.
Social media has already begun buzzing with fan reactions, and hashtags related to the concert are steadily gaining traction among Malaysian K-pop communities.
New Music Hints and Rising Popularity
As the countdown to their Kuala Lumpur concert begins, fans are eagerly speculating about a possible comeback from 82MAJOR in the lead-up to October. With their North American tour wrapping up and their fanbase expanding rapidly across Asia, many anticipate the release of new material, potentially an EP or a special single designed for the Asian leg of their tour.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bY2JgNSFEG0" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
In the meantime, fans can enjoy the group&rsquo;s latest release, &ldquo;TAKEOVER&rdquo;, a high-energy track that highlights 82MAJOR&rsquo;s refined production style, strong choreography, and distinctive vocal sound. The song has steadily gained traction online, with streaming numbers and YouTube views continuing to climb, boosted by the group&rsquo;s recent international exposure.
Should new music be released before October, Malaysian fans may be among the first to experience it live, adding an extra layer of excitement to what is already shaping up to be a major milestone for both the group and their local supporters. Whether or not a new comeback arrives in time, one thing is certain: 82MAJOR&rsquo;s Kuala Lumpur concert promises to be a must-see event.
Stay Tuned for More Updates
As anticipation builds, fans can expect more updates in the coming weeks &mdash; including ticketing tiers, fan benefits, and possible meet-and-greet packages. With 82MAJOR continuing to gain momentum globally, this concert is shaping up to be one of the most memorable K-pop events in Malaysia this year.
Mark your calendars for 4 October 2025, and get ready to chant, dance, and sing your heart out with 82MAJOR in Kuala Lumpur.
Are you excited? Because we definitely know we are!
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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The wait is over, Malaysia is officially on their Asia tour stop for a full concert!

70fa233af6c147e78fdf7379d32cd10dfaff7bfee43748b2eff8382b299faf35

82MAJOR Are Returning To KL For Their First Full Concert In October!

The United States will impose a sweeping 25% tariff on all Malaysian products entering the country from 1 August 2025. The move, announced by former US President Donald J. Trump in an official letter dated 7 July to both Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, signals a significant escalation in US-Malaysia trade relations.
Trump cited longstanding grievances over Malaysia&rsquo;s trade practices, specifically &ldquo;tariff, non-tariff policies and trade barriers&rdquo; that he claims have created an &ldquo;unsustainable&rdquo; trade deficit. The letter, also posted on his Truth Social platform, reflects the former president&rsquo;s familiar stance on rebalancing trade ties with US partners.
&ldquo;Relationship Has Been Far From Reciprocal&rdquo;
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2958ae1ab385de2c25ee5e30e0936366f1c080ab474a39507054532bc9a99b8c" />
In the letter, Trump acknowledged the longstanding economic partnership between the two countries but insisted it had been one-sided.
&ldquo;We have had years to discuss our trading relationship with Malaysia,&rdquo; he wrote, &ldquo;and have concluded that we must move away from these long term, and very persistent trade deficits engendered by Malaysia&rsquo;s tariff and non-tariff policies.&rdquo;
The blanket 25% tariff will be imposed across all sectors, separate from any existing sectoral tariffs. These include additional levies&mdash;25% on automotive exports and up to 50% on steel and aluminium products&mdash;affecting manufacturing-heavy countries in the region.
No Tariff for US-Based Manufacturing
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fa1043982fa099d07eebbdb7887243953f2e8292773e3749af89270009023381" />
To soften the blow, Trump offered Malaysian companies an alternative: relocate manufacturing operations to the United States. He pledged that products made within US borders would be exempt from the new tariff.
&ldquo;There will be no tariff if Malaysia, or companies within your country, decide to build or manufacture products within the United States,&rdquo; he said, adding that his administration would facilitate swift approvals &ldquo;in a matter of weeks.&rdquo;
Warning Against Retaliation and Transshipping
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/aa36b7c613ec04b72bbd241ed96a996d6315fabf8cd11a06913886e3a694d020" />
Trump further warned that any attempt by Malaysia to retaliate with higher tariffs on US imports would be met with an equivalent increase on top of the existing 25% rate.
&ldquo;If, for any reason, you decide to raise your tariffs, then whatever number you choose will be added onto the 25% we charge,&rdquo; he declared.
Additionally, goods transshipped from or through Malaysia to avoid higher tariffs will also be taxed at the highest applicable rate. This measure is in line with Washington&rsquo;s broader clampdown on transshipments&mdash;especially from China&mdash;via third countries in Southeast Asia.
The tariff rate, initially announced as 24% in April under Trump&rsquo;s &ldquo;Liberation Day Tariffs&rdquo; package targeting 49 countries, was temporarily paused for 90 days to allow for negotiations. Malaysia held formal trade talks in Washington from 18&ndash;20 June and had expressed hope for concessions, particularly for its electronics and export manufacturing sectors.
However, with talks yielding little progress, Trump extended the pause by three weeks before increasing the tariff rate by one point to 25%.
Part of Wider Regional Clampdown
Malaysia is not alone in facing higher US import duties. Japan and South Korea were also notified of a 25% tariff, while Indonesia faces a 32% rate, Thailand 36%, and Laos and Myanmar 40%&mdash;down from Trump&rsquo;s earlier April figures. Cambodia, meanwhile, saw its proposed tariff reduced from 49% to 36%.
Notably, Malaysia&rsquo;s inclusion alongside close US allies Japan and South Korea was seen by some as a sign of parity, albeit a painful one.
&ldquo;We are in the same club,&rdquo; one senior Malaysian trade official remarked anonymously, &ldquo;but we expected some reduction&mdash;not a hike.&rdquo;
Market Concerns and Economic Impact
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3fb94d6cf87b7b7cbd57ec7539443172e968ec3f152da94b937bfc160d9694f7" />
The new tariff comes as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio prepares for his first official visit to Malaysia during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers&rsquo; Meeting. His arrival is expected to bring further diplomatic dialogue, although the tone has already been set by Trump&rsquo;s announcement.
Experts have warned of broader economic implications. &ldquo;A 25% tariff will have a major impact on exports including in-demand items like autos and semiconductors,&rdquo; said William Alan Reinsch of the Centre for Strategic and International Studies. &ldquo;It means higher prices in the US and slower economies in affected countries.&rdquo;
Trump&rsquo;s Unpredictable Trade Playbook
Trump&rsquo;s move follows a familiar pattern&mdash;announce a tariff, offer a deadline, and extend it if needed. With the 1 August deadline looming, many wonder whether another delay is in store&mdash;or if this time, the tariffs will truly take effect.
Wendy Cutler, former US trade negotiator, said the timing may still allow room for breakthroughs. &ldquo;While the news is disappointing, it doesn&rsquo;t mean the game is over,&rdquo; she noted, pointing out that last-minute deals, like the one recently struck with Vietnam, could still emerge.
Malaysia&rsquo;s Next Move
As of now, Putrajaya has yet to issue an official response to the new 25% tariff. However, trade officials say negotiations will continue. Malaysia remains hopeful that diplomacy can still bring relief to its crucial export sectors and mitigate the blow to its economy.
Until then, businesses and exporters brace for impact&mdash;while watching closely whether Trump&rsquo;s tariff ultimatum holds firm or shifts once more.
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 tariff takes effect 1 August; transshipped goods face threat of even higher duties.

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Trump Imposes 25% Tariff On Malaysian Goods Amid Escalating Trade Tensions

A group of over 30 cyclists has triggered widespread backlash after sharing a video online depicting a confrontation with a RapidKL bus driver along Jalan Bestari, Kuala Selangor. The incident, which took place on the morning of Sunday, 6 July, was initially intended to expose what the cyclists described as dangerous and aggressive driving. Instead, it drew unexpected public sympathy for the bus driver and ignited a broader debate about road etiquette in Malaysia.
Cyclists Accuse Driver of Reckless Behaviour
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In the viral video, the cyclists alleged they were riding safely on the left-most lane of the road when the bus driver approached at high speed and allegedly swerved dangerously close to their formation. According to one of the cyclists who posted on TikTok under the username @spaceramenn, &ldquo;He almost hit our cyclists while the right lane was empty. He could&rsquo;ve just moved to the right lane for a few seconds.&rdquo;
The group claimed the incident wasn&rsquo;t isolated. They accused the driver of having behaved similarly earlier that morning, suggesting a pattern of intimidation. Matters escalated when the bus came to a halt, and the driver exited the vehicle to confront the cyclists directly. According to their post, the driver attempted to physically assault one of them, kicking at a cyclist during the roadside argument.
Public Shaming Backfires: Personal Info Shared Online
In what appeared to be an attempt to seek public support and prompt disciplinary action, the cyclists shared the driver&rsquo;s full name, bus registration plate, and employee ID on social media platforms. However, their efforts backfired. Rather than drawing outrage towards the driver, the post unleashed a wave of criticism against the cyclists themselves.
Many Malaysians took issue with the decision to publicly doxx the driver, pointing out that he appeared calm and collected in the video, even when surrounded by a large, agitated group. The release of personal information without due process also raised concerns about online harassment and trial by social media.
JPJ Intervenes and Defuses the Situation
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/24da9296121450e449c634ebca9d6be4595ec96d7b7f1569e2b36f437c2f40dd" />
As luck&mdash;or misfortune&mdash;would have it, the confrontation took place not far from a Road Transport Department (JPJ) office. Officers who happened to be nearby responded promptly and de-escalated the situation. They separated both parties and provided guidance, reminding the cyclists to remain on the far-left side of the road for their own safety.
According to the cyclists, they insisted they had already been doing so. However, video footage and witness commentary suggested that several riders were cycling side-by-side, taking up more space than advisable and potentially obstructing traffic.
Netizens Side with the Bus Driver
Public sentiment online quickly leaned in favour of the bus driver. Social media users commented in droves, with many expressing frustration about the behaviour of large cycling groups on Malaysian roads. &ldquo;Hundreds of comments flooded the post&mdash;and nearly all of them defended the bus driver,&rdquo; one observer noted.
A particularly popular comment summed up the sentiment: &ldquo;We criticise kids on &lsquo;basikal lajak&rsquo; for being reckless on roads, but now adults are setting the same poor example.&rdquo; Others pointed out the professionalism displayed by the driver, who didn&rsquo;t retaliate aggressively despite being provoked.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a92c48025ec39b283721dedccd2afff395da1407f9440957eebc7ed8b68cc8a0" />
Wider Debate on Cycling Etiquette Resurfaces
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The incident has reignited discussions about road-sharing norms, particularly when it comes to cyclists using public roads. Although cyclists are legally allowed to use the roads, their presence&mdash;especially in large numbers&mdash;often leads to tension with motorists.
Some users argued that cycling in large groups during peak hours or on busy roads can be dangerous not only for the cyclists themselves but for others as well. The lack of dedicated cycling infrastructure in many parts of Malaysia has only added to the problem, forcing cyclists and vehicles to compete for limited space.
Calls for Road Safety Reform and Public Awareness
In the wake of the backlash, many have called for the government and relevant authorities to take a more proactive stance. Suggestions include introducing clearer cycling regulations, investing in dedicated bicycle lanes, and launching public campaigns on shared road responsibilities.
&ldquo;Cyclists want respect, but that comes with responsibility,&rdquo; one commenter wrote. &ldquo;If you&rsquo;re holding up traffic and causing a hazard, you should expect some level of pushback.&rdquo;
Others proposed that both motorists and cyclists receive regular awareness training to foster better mutual understanding and reduce road rage incidents.
Lessons from the Digital Age: When Going Viral Backfires
This episode offers a cautionary tale about the double-edged nature of social media. What the cyclists may have intended as a public appeal for justice turned into an unexpected referendum on their own behaviour. The very footage they hoped would support their claims ended up undermining them.
In the age of instant virality, public opinion can be swift and unforgiving. It serves as a reminder that accountability and context matter&mdash;both in how we act on the road and how we represent ourselves online.
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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What started as a confrontation ended in full public backlash.

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A Disturbing First in Online Safety Prosecution
In a landmark legal case under the United Kingdom's new Online Safety Act 2023, 23-year-old Tyler Webb, from Loughborough, Leicestershire, has become the first person in the country to be convicted of encouraging serious self-harm online. He was sentenced to nine years and four months in custody under a hybrid order, which will see him detained in a secure mental health facility before potentially serving the rest of his sentence in prison.
The charges were brought after Webb relentlessly encouraged a vulnerable 21-year-old woman to harm herself for his own sexual gratification, eventually urging her to attempt suicide during a video call. His actions were described in court as "calculated psychological violence".
Grooming and Psychological Coercion
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Webb met his victim in June 2024 via an online support forum for mental health issues, where she was seeking help. After establishing contact, he persuaded her to move their conversations to the encrypted Telegram messaging app, where the abuse escalated.
Over a period of six weeks, Webb groomed the woman, gradually manipulating her into self-harming and then into attempting suicide. Prosecutors revealed that he would instruct her how to harm herself and demanded she send photos of her injuries, which he used for sexual pleasure. He became agitated when she self-harmed without his prompting, as it meant he couldn't witness or control the act.
In one especially harrowing incident on 2 July 2024, Webb persuaded her to attempt suicide via a 44-minute video call. She passed out during the attempt, but survived. Upon regaining consciousness, Webb coldly instructed her to try again.
Victim&rsquo;s Bravery and Pain
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The victim courageously reported the incident to police the following day. Her evidence &ndash; including audio recordings, screenshots, and photographs &ndash; formed the backbone of the prosecution case. She later admitted she felt guilty for getting him in trouble and listened to the audio again, only to realise the severity of his manipulation. Tragically, she attempted suicide again after listening to the recording.
In a powerful victim impact statement read in court, she said:
"He tried to kill me, not with his hands, but with his words... What Tyler did was not a mistake. It was calculated psychological violence."
She added:
"There will never be another second on this Earth where I don't have to live with the pain of what happened."
Legal Milestone Under the Online Safety Act
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Webb&rsquo;s conviction under Section 184 of the Online Safety Act 2023 marks a historic first for this new legislation, which criminalises encouraging serious self-harm online. Although encouraging suicide has been an offence since 1961, this newer section addresses the rise of online abuse in the digital age.
Alex Johnson, from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), called it a "watershed prosecution" and warned that others have already been charged under the same law. He praised the victim's bravery, adding:
"If she had not come forward, Webb would have remained at liberty and free to target other vulnerable people online."
During sentencing at Leicester Crown Court on 4 July 2025, Webb appeared visibly distressed, at one point lying on the floor as a coping mechanism. His defence counsel, Joey Kwong, revealed that Webb had long suffered from autism spectrum disorder, borderline personality disorder, and depression.
Despite these conditions, the court was clear that his actions were deliberate and dangerous. The judge concluded that Webb was manipulative, sexually motivated, and posed a significant risk to others. He will remain in a mental health facility until deemed fit for release, at which point he will serve the rest of his sentence in prison.
Police and Public Reaction
Detective Constable Lauren Hampton, who led the investigation, described the case as one of the most distressing in her career. She said:
"Webb preyed upon a vulnerable woman at a time when she was reaching out for help and support. His vile requests were calculated and deliberate, and he knew they could result in her death."
She praised the victim for her extraordinary courage, adding:
"Her actions have undoubtedly safeguarded others."
This case has sparked widespread attention and debate, not only due to the horrifying nature of the offence, but also because it represents a significant turning point in the prosecution of digital harm. It stands as a stark warning that the Online Safety Act has teeth&mdash;and will be used to pursue justice for victims of online abuse.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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He met her in a mental health forum then manipulated her into self-harm and suicide attempts.

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