Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Money

politics

investigation

Ismail Sabri

corruption

MACC

fallout

frozen assets

safe house

gold bars

In a shocking revelation, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has officially named former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob as a suspect in an extensive corruption and money laundering investigation. This high-profile case has stunned the nation, as authorities have seized assets valued at approximately RM170 million, including vast sums of cash in multiple foreign currencies, gold bars, luxury watches, and high-value jewellery.
During a press conference held on 3 March at the MACC headquarters in Putrajaya, Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki presented the confiscated assets in a striking public display. Bundles of cash, gold bars, and other valuable items were laid out for the media, providing tangible evidence of the investigation&rsquo;s findings.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1cba63c0495e9b9410e2ac299d81356e04813a6ad4b23556029924b23d127164" />
"On the table, there are only RM14 million in Malaysian Ringgit; the rest consists of various foreign currencies," Azam stated. The seized cash included US Dollars, Euros, British Pounds, UAE Dirhams, Japanese Yen, Australian Dollars, Saudi Riyals, Thai Baht, Korean Won, and Chinese Yuan, among others.
Azam underscored the significance of the evidence, confirming that Ismail Sabri is a suspect in the case. "Firstly, he has been required to declare his assets under Section 36 of the MACC Act. Secondly, the money was discovered in connection with him, and we will require his statement to determine the source and intended use of these funds."
Cash, Gold Bars, and Luxury Goods Discovered in Safe House
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/724a6b0ae97bb691199aaab304bc72844a00364c850f10757f392a21b619c138" />
Authorities uncovered the massive hoard of cash and gold bars concealed in three safes within a high-end condominium allegedly used as a &lsquo;safe house&rsquo; by individuals linked to the former Prime Minister. The apartment, believed to have been rented and managed by one of the suspects, housed 16 kilograms of pure gold bars estimated to be worth nearly RM7 million.
The MACC confirmed that although raids were conducted at multiple locations, the bulk of the confiscated funds and valuables were found in this single residence. Luxury watches and jewellery were also seized, though their total value is still being assessed.
The seizures followed the arrests of four individuals on 21 February, including two individuals bearing the title &lsquo;Datuk,&rsquo; believed to have been close aides to Ismail Sabri. These individuals allegedly played a significant role in handling financial transactions linked to the corruption probe.
Expanding Investigation and Frozen Bank Accounts
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7ba67b2e8292fb20ef7daa65fc125012e59e51a1eb9dadc22621bea0d2050caf" />
As part of the ongoing investigation, the MACC has frozen 13 bank accounts holding approximately RM2 million to trace the movement of illicit funds. The commission is also closely examining financial transactions associated with Yayasan Keluarga Malaysia, a foundation established under Ismail Sabri&rsquo;s administration, which is under scrutiny for possible financial mismanagement.
The former Prime Minister has already been questioned by MACC investigators for five hours and is expected to be summoned again as new evidence emerges. Meanwhile, Azam Baki refuted reports that Datuk Nazimah Hashim, Ismail Sabri&rsquo;s former private secretary, had fled overseas, confirming that she had already provided a statement to investigators.
MACC assured the public that the investigation is being conducted independently and professionally, reinforcing its commitment to eradicating corruption at all levels. "We remain resolute in ensuring that any misconduct related to corruption and money laundering is thoroughly addressed in the interest of national integrity," the commission stated.
Public Outrage and Political Fallout
News of the corruption probe has triggered widespread outrage on social media, with many Malaysians condemning the staggering scale of the alleged embezzlement. Ismail Sabri, Malaysia&rsquo;s ninth and shortest-serving prime minister, is now facing increasing scrutiny, with critics demanding greater accountability and transparency in the nation&rsquo;s anti-corruption efforts.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
It's incredible how someone can accumulate such a large sum of money in such a brief time as..
&mdash; Goh Kim Hock (@gohkimhock) <a href="https://twitter.com/gohkimhock/status/1896149586567401971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2025</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Assuming 2 year's tenure, these aides were accumulating, on average, RM7.083 million per month or RM236,000 per day in cash!
&mdash; CFLIM (@chiafook2013) <a href="https://twitter.com/chiafook2013/status/1896189827001069835?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2025</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Ni klu bg rakyat msia sorang RM1 juta masih ada balance lagi RM137 juta betapa banyaknya amount RM170 juta tu
&mdash; Megatron&rsquo;S (@wuzgut01) <a href="https://twitter.com/wuzgut01/status/1896467710130983030?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2025</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
What a luxury to be an elite in Malaysia. Don&rsquo;t need to overnight in lockup. On Wednesday, he&rsquo;ll be escorted in luxurious cars and can still wave to the media like a celebrity.
&mdash; mil1985 (@mil19851) <a href="https://twitter.com/mil19851/status/1896466283748831411?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2025</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Teringat ada terbaca satu quote "kekayaan suatu negara cukup untuk semua rakyat, tapi takkan cukup untuk seorang pemimpin". Yg 15 bulan pun banyak camni dah. Kalau yg 22tahun + 22bulan tu tktau la camne
&mdash; Jemi 🇲🇾🍉 (@AzmiShafiq_) <a href="https://twitter.com/AzmiShafiq_/status/1896435838000705585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2025</a></blockquote>

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As the case unfolds, the MACC has identified nearly 10 more witnesses who are expected to be called in for questioning in the coming weeks. The scandal continues to dominate public discourse, with far-reaching political ramifications, as authorities work to uncover the full extent of this high-profile corruption case.
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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Massive asset seizures unveiled at MACC headquarters. 

ea0f824df19ebed2d0a567e11168cd4a0c061aa638e2d23ec22d104e83c3ed97

Former PM Ismail Sabri Named As Suspect In RM170 Million Ringgit Corruption Scandal

British pop sensation Henry Moodie is set to return to Malaysia this July, this time for his first-ever solo headline concert in the country. Following a string of successful performances in Kuala Lumpur last year and earlier this February, the rising star will launch his much-anticipated &ldquo;Henry Moodie 2025 Asia Tour&rdquo; with an electrifying show at Zepp Kuala Lumpur on 16 July 2025 (Wednesday).
Adding star power to the event, Bradley Simpson, frontman of the chart-topping British band The Vamps, will make a special guest appearance during the concert.
From Viral Stardom to Asia Tour Headliner
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/df04642f5203a1494e3e7923b600876100d3a8281084ed7131b10ad71a1d983c" />
At just 21, Henry Moodie has quickly emerged as one of the most exciting young talents in the UK pop scene, captivating global audiences with his emotionally raw songwriting and heartfelt performances. Born in Guildford in 2004, Moodie began writing songs at the age of 11 and later trained at BIMM music school, honing his skills before launching his solo career. His breakout came in 2022 with &ldquo;You Were There For Me,&rdquo; a self-produced track written in his childhood bedroom that went viral on TikTok and garnered over 90 million streams on Spotify.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OqEc_169ywY" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
His true rise to global prominence came with the 2023 single &ldquo;Drunk Text,&rdquo; a runaway viral hit that amassed over 600 million streams and secured him a spot among the Top 10 most viewed UK artists on TikTok in both 2022 and 2024. Fan favourites like &ldquo;Beat Up Car,&rdquo; &ldquo;Pick Up The Phone,&rdquo; and &ldquo;Eighteen&rdquo; further cemented his place as a rising star known for weaving themes of mental health, heartbreak, and youthful vulnerability into polished pop hooks.
Moodie&rsquo;s 2024 world tour saw sold-out shows across the UK, Europe, the US, and Australia, reflecting his growing international fanbase. With two EPs under his belt&mdash;In All of My Lonely Nights and Good Old Days&mdash;and his debut album set to drop later this year under Sony Music&rsquo;s Columbia Records and Robots &amp; Humans, Henry Moodie&rsquo;s momentum shows no signs of slowing down. Backed by over 600 million global streams, award nods, and viral moments, he&rsquo;s poised to become a defining voice of his generation.
First Solo Concert in Malaysia
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/21a9fff6fb11f0193125f59a0eb931f5748e90fb57864974a2af389d6f48fac6" />
While this marks Moodie&rsquo;s first solo ticketed show in Malaysia, he&rsquo;s no stranger to the local scene. Malaysian fans had the opportunity to catch him live during a free showcase at The Exchange TRX in May 2024 and at the Maybelline Sunkisser event in February 2025. Both appearances highlighted the singer&rsquo;s growing popularity in the region.
Now, with a full concert experience on offer, fans can look forward to an unforgettable evening filled with heartfelt lyrics, catchy hooks, and Moodie&rsquo;s signature charisma.
Ticketing Details and Pre-Sale Dates
Organised by Live Nation Malaysia, tickets for the KL concert will be released in phases, with exclusive pre-sales available before the general public sale. Here's what you need to know:
🎤 Henry Moodie 2025 Live in Kuala Lumpur &bull; Date: Wednesday, 16 July 2025 &bull; Time: 8:00 PM &bull; Venue: Zepp Kuala Lumpur &bull; Organiser: Live Nation Malaysia
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5676686936394bbb51211e2bd4025b6c992710eaf874fe3f776eaf053a4b99b5" />
💳 Ticket Categories: &bull; CAT 1 (Seated): RM328 &bull; CAT 2 (Standing): RM268 &bull; Meet &amp; Greet VIP Package: RM538 &bull; VIP BOX (8 Pax): RM2,888 
🗓️ Pre-sale &amp; General Sale Dates: &bull; Mastercard Pre-sale: 13 May (Tue) at 11 AM &ndash; 14 May (Wed) at 11 AM via <a href="http://www.priceless.com/music">www.priceless.com/music</a> &bull; Live Nation Member Pre-sale: 14 May (Wed), 12 PM &ndash; 11:59 PM via <a href="http://www.livenation.my">www.livenation.my</a> &bull; General Sale: Starts 15 May (Thu) at 11 AM via <a href="http://www.golive-asia.com">www.golive-asia.com</a>
For more details and updates, fans are encouraged to follow Live Nation Malaysia and GoLive Asia through their official platforms.
Asia Tour Continues Beyond KL
Kuala Lumpur serves as just the beginning of Henry Moodie&rsquo;s 2025 Asia Tour. Following his Malaysian debut, the singer will head to several other cities, including:
<ul>
<li> Bangkok &ndash; 18 July &bull; Seoul &ndash; 23 July &bull; Taipei &ndash; 25 July &bull; Hong Kong &ndash; 28 July &bull; Tokyo &ndash; 30 July</li>
</ul>
With excitement building and tickets expected to sell fast, Malaysian fans have a unique opportunity to witness Henry Moodie&rsquo;s rise firsthand&mdash;and be among the first in Asia to experience his headline tour live.
Catch Up With His Music
&nbsp;<iframe style="border-radius: 12px;" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/34r4lkt0hO0sbLI17vb0Os?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" loading="lazy"></iframe>
In case you missed it, Henry Moodie dropped his latest single &ldquo;Indigo&rdquo; back in March, a heartfelt track that explores the intensity of love through the symbolic lens of the colour indigo&mdash;often associated with intimacy, longing, and emotional depth. In the song, Henry lays bare his yearning for someone deeply significant, describing the overwhelming nature of that emotion as almost &ldquo;evil&rdquo; due to the way it traps him in a cycle of memories and aching desire. At its core, Indigo captures the bittersweet paradox of love&mdash;the joy it brings, and the sorrow that comes with missing someone who once felt like everything.
As for his highly anticipated debut album, fans will have to be patient a little longer. In the meantime, you can stream his other releases below:
<iframe style="border-radius: 12px;" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/artist/7hr9W3IjXcm3UlLY7guLk5?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" loading="lazy"></iframe>
Are you looking forward to his solo concert because we certainly are! Let us know your thoughts in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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He’ll be joined by Bradley Simpson of The Vamps too!

d6fe0a9c25dbd5a7756c7f79cc7d97053cd6d798bceadeb007c3c93072af49e9

Henry Moodie To Kick Off First Asia Headline Tour In Kuala Lumpur This July

Bolt, one of Europe&rsquo;s leading mobility platforms, has introduced a notable upgrade to its ride-hailing service in Malaysia by fully integrating toll fares into the ride fare shown before booking. The company now stands as the first e-hailing provider in the country to roll out this feature, offering passengers and drivers a more seamless, transparent experience.
This enhancement, while seemingly minor from a technical standpoint, addresses a major operational pain point that has long affected the local ride-hailing industry: how tolls are handled. Until now, toll charges were typically calculated separately and often settled manually between drivers and passengers after the trip&mdash;leading to pricing disputes, delayed reimbursements, and general confusion on both ends.
With this update, the full fare&mdash;including any tolls incurred along the route&mdash;is calculated and shown upfront in the app, allowing passengers to see the total cost before confirming their ride.
Understanding Malaysia&rsquo;s Toll Landscape
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5d61d2fbb2c3f129970c78e6b22cf80910fd0c88fb2545e716f076ad6cdc39be" />
Malaysia&rsquo;s road system includes nearly 200 toll booths operating under three different systems: open, closed, and hybrid. As a result, determining the correct toll charge for any given route can be complicated, particularly in dense urban areas such as the Klang Valley, where expressways and toll roads are an everyday part of commuting.
Bolt says approximately 30% of its rides in Malaysia currently pass through at least one toll. This makes the toll integration feature highly relevant for a large portion of its user base, both in terms of accuracy and convenience.
Afzan Lutfi, General Manager of Bolt Malaysia, said in a statement: &ldquo;Integrating toll fares directly into our ride calculations reflects our understanding of everyday driving challenges in Malaysia. We know that tolls are an essential part of the driving experience here, and by automating the process, we eliminate unnecessary guesswork for both partner drivers and passengers.&rdquo;
Improved Transparency for Passengers
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d10f80dd1ace28208695dd87fe6e16e2fa8c3e2684a7a8c1296646fd36ec8a98" />
With this move, Bolt is addressing one of the most common sources of frustration among ride-hailing passengers&mdash;hidden or unexpected costs. By displaying the final fare (inclusive of tolls) before the ride begins, Bolt offers a &ldquo;what you see is what you pay&rdquo; model that enhances customer trust and reduces the chances of disputes.
It also eliminates the need for passengers to carry extra cash or manually reimburse drivers at the end of a ride, something that had become particularly inconvenient during cashless transactions or high-traffic hours.
Although other e-hailing platforms, such as Grab, have teased similar initiatives in neighbouring countries like Singapore, none have yet introduced this feature locally in Malaysia&mdash;making Bolt&rsquo;s implementation a first in the market.
Operational Efficiency for Drivers
The integration is equally beneficial to partner drivers, who no longer need to manually track, calculate, or input toll charges post-trip. This change removes a layer of administrative work, particularly during busy hours, and ensures that drivers are properly compensated for every toll incurred during the journey.
Rahimah Ismail, a Bolt driver based in the Klang Valley, shared her experience: &ldquo;Before this, tracking tolls during peak periods was tricky. Now, everything is upfront&mdash;it saves time and avoids misunderstandings with passengers.&rdquo;
Bolt claims that this update is part of its broader mission to support driver earnings and improve efficiency. The platform is also working on further enhancements, including refined pickup distance management and more streamlined access to driver earnings. These updates, unveiled during Bolt&rsquo;s recent Raya Open House and driver engagement session, are based on direct feedback from the company&rsquo;s partner community.
A Tailored Approach to the Malaysian Market
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7de203c9083ced6f2ed4dd340d147a07b19549a758a175dd28fbcd354ac22c73" />
By focusing on small but meaningful local adaptations, Bolt is positioning itself as a platform that understands the nuances of driving and commuting in Malaysia. Toll roads are an inescapable reality for many Malaysians, and addressing this challenge with a practical tech solution shows the company&rsquo;s commitment to localising its service.
In contrast to a one-size-fits-all approach, Bolt&rsquo;s strategy reflects a growing awareness among international tech platforms: to succeed in Malaysia, understanding and adapting to on-the-ground realities is key.
As Afzan noted, &ldquo;At Bolt, we believe that greater transparency leads to better experiences, and this feature is part of our wider commitment to making urban mobility more reliable, fair, and convenient for everyone. We look forward to rolling out more locally relevant innovations in the months ahead.&rdquo;
Redefining Ride-Hailing in Malaysia
Bolt&rsquo;s toll integration may appear to be a simple feature on paper, but in practice, it significantly improves the overall e-hailing experience. By reducing disputes, simplifying operations, and improving cost clarity, Bolt is redefining what passengers and drivers can expect from a ride-hailing platform.
With continuous updates and a strong focus on user and driver feedback, Bolt is not only competing with more established players like Grab&mdash;it is also setting new standards for how ride-hailing should work in Malaysia.
This update is part of a broader trend towards building smarter, more efficient urban mobility systems&mdash;where both drivers and riders benefit from less friction, more reliability, and fairer earnings and fares.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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bef1bee1c23668051643c9838c1c20b9e3ced08deb122b18b2d916b2cbaed87b

Bolt Becomes First E-Hailing Platform In Malaysia To Include Toll Charges In Upfront Ride Fares

Shopee sellers are bracing for yet another increase in operational costs as the e-commerce platform confirmed a hike in its SPayLater seller fee. The change, set to take effect on 8 May 2025, will see the fee rise from 3.5% to 4.5% for all completed orders involving the SPayLater payment option.
The update was announced through Shopee&rsquo;s official Seller Education Hub, continuing a trend of rising charges for merchants using the platform.
What Is SPayLater? 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a62796e4303ff33bf724897f79a3f39b982bad43119b1080a6710fedfa3de146" />
SPayLater is Shopee&rsquo;s Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) scheme, designed to give buyers flexibility in managing their purchases. The feature enables customers to split their payments over installment plans ranging from one to 24 months. Instalments up to three months typically carry no extra fees for buyers, but longer tenures can incur charges of up to 36%, depending on the duration.
However, while buyers may choose whether or not to use SPayLater, sellers are automatically enrolled in the programme with no option to opt out. This means they must absorb the associated transaction fee regardless of whether they benefit directly from the instalment feature.
Why Are Sellers Frustrated?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e816e805f983200358e1b1830eb38cfdc3be9218e22e47533de142280683cf1c" />
The fee hike has been met with widespread frustration among Shopee merchants, many of whom took to online seller communities to express their discontent. One recurring point of criticism is the lack of transparency&mdash;Shopee has not provided any formal explanation for the increase.
Many sellers are questioning why they are being penalised when it is ultimately the buyer&rsquo;s decision to use the SPayLater facility. The platform&rsquo;s insistence on making SPayLater mandatory for eligible sellers has only fuelled further resentment.
A number of sellers have even suggested raising their prices to cushion the impact of the new fee, potentially making Shopee less competitive for buyers as a result.
Sellers Speak Out: &ldquo;It&rsquo;s Getting Too Much&rdquo;
Among those voicing concern is Loh, a power tool seller who requested partial anonymity. Speaking to local media, Loh said that the compounding cost of selling on Shopee&mdash;including this new SPayLater fee&mdash;is driving him to reconsider the platform entirely.
&ldquo;My business has to contend with more and more extra fees, and I&rsquo;d need to hire someone just to operate and manage the sales channel,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;That&rsquo;s pushed my business away from focusing too much effort towards selling on Shopee.&rdquo;
A Pattern of Increasing Charges
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5268806b0bc67a485230899cca302a30408a47ee615a61836d3eb4fcd5c7d8bc" />
This latest update follows a previous hike in August 2024, when Shopee increased its general Transaction Fee for sellers from 2% to 3.5%&mdash;a move that excluded SPayLater and credit card payments at the time. That change, too, received criticism from small business owners struggling to maintain margins on the platform.
It&rsquo;s also worth noting that the new 4.5% SPayLater fee is subject to Malaysia&rsquo;s 8% Sales and Service Tax (SST), effectively making the total cost to sellers even higher.
Shopee&rsquo;s Justification &mdash; and What&rsquo;s Missing
While Shopee has highlighted that SPayLater can increase a seller&rsquo;s gross merchandise value by offering flexible payments to buyers, it has not justified the fee hike directly or provided any context for the additional cost burden. The omission has left many sellers feeling alienated, especially as BNPL platforms typically share costs across both buyers and sellers in a more transparent manner.
What&rsquo;s Next for Shopee Sellers?
As sellers scramble to adjust to the updated fee structure, questions remain about Shopee&rsquo;s long-term strategy and its impact on small and medium-sized businesses. If costs continue to rise without improved support or clearer communication, more sellers like Loh may look to alternative platforms or offline sales.
For now, the 4.5% fee for SPayLater orders will go into effect from 8 May 2025, and sellers will have no choice but to comply &mdash; or reconsider their future on the platform.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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To offset the higher fee, some sellers may begin raising their product prices.

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Shopee Hikes SPayLater Seller Fee To 4.5% From 8 May

Beloved modern retro band MASDO has officially marked a decade in Malaysia&rsquo;s music scene with an unforgettable fan event and the exciting announcement of a full-scale anniversary concert this coming August. Known for their infectious throwback sound and strong fanbase, the trio celebrated the milestone in true MASDO fashion&mdash;complete with mystery, music, and meaningful moments.
Who Are MASDO?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e538077f77e8c082276bd4428214797733e1621ac04a10d25713438864318adc" />
&nbsp;MASDO is a Malaysian pop rock band known for their modern take on 1960s "pop yeh yeh" music, blending retro styles with contemporary flair. Formed in 2015, the band comprises Ali Sariah (vocals/guitar), Putu Ceri (bass/backing vocals), and Asmawi (guitar/backing vocals). Their name, inspired by the character "Do" from the classic P. Ramlee film Do Re Mi, reflects their homage to Malaysia's musical heritage.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ft8oLwsoIN0" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
MASDO gained widespread recognition with their debut single "Bunga" in 2016, followed by hits like "Dinda," "Janji Manis," and "Pujaanku" featuring Aisyah Aziz. Their song "Dinda" achieved viral status on TikTok in Indonesia, leading to over 60 million streams on Spotify by January 2025. The track also reached the finals of Anugerah Juara Lagu 34 in 2020.
The band's discography includes the albums Selamat Tinggal Pujaan (2017) and Jalan Abbey (2020), the latter recorded at London's iconic Abbey Road Studios. In 2024, they released the single "Perih Jerih" and embarked on a tour across Indonesia, performing in cities like Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Bali.
In recognition of their growing influence, MASDO was nominated for Best Asia Act at the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards, marking a significant milestone in their international presence.
With their distinctive style and commitment to reviving classic Malaysian pop, MASDO continues to captivate audiences both locally and abroad.
A Night to Remember at Saloma KL
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b955a4d9b2b8ca5a8ba8b37d6992d378f5d5ae70fb658bf08604c96f5da73ff2" />
On 30 April 2025, over 200 devoted fans and media guests gathered at Saloma Bistro in Kuala Lumpur for a special event titled Perjumpaan Ahli Mesyuarat Tingkap. MASDO had spent days teasing the event on Instagram through cryptic posts, prompting widespread speculation online. When the night arrived, it turned out to be more than just a gathering&mdash;it was a heartfelt celebration of their journey and an intimate thank-you to fans.
In appreciation of the fans who have supported them through thick and thin, MASDO performed a live mini showcase featuring some of their most beloved hits. Songs such as Dinda, Lautan Asmara, Janji Manis, Bunga, and Berchanda di Malam Indah echoed through the venue, with fans singing along and soaking in the retro vibes that have become the band&rsquo;s trademark.
The performance was not just entertainment&mdash;it was a walk down memory lane, and a prelude to something much bigger.
&lsquo;Al-Kisah Masdo Sepuloh Tahun&rsquo;: The Concert Announcement 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d985497ed017dab5df98e46115af20fec0f93716e4c6e2fc8ac772c2b88adc05" />
The climax of the evening came when MASDO dramatically unveiled the poster for their 10th-anniversary concert. In a symbolic reveal, a cloth draped over the MATIC building was pulled down, exposing the details of Al-Kisah Masdo Sepuloh Tahun&mdash;a grand concert scheduled for 30 August 2025.
This milestone show will be held at Idea Live Arena KL @ 3 Damansara, a brand-new venue with a 7,000-capacity. MASDO will be the first act to perform there, promising fans a high-energy yet intimate experience steeped in nostalgia and celebration.
Ticketing and Pre-Registration Details
Fans eager to be part of this momentous occasion can pre-register for early bird Rockzone tickets priced at RM128 between 30 April and 1 May. Once public sales begin, tickets will be available at RM148 for Rockzone (free standing) and RM198 for Category 1 (seated).
A New Album in the Works
Speaking to the media after the event, band members Ali Sariah, Asmawi, and Putu Ceri expressed their heartfelt gratitude to fans. &ldquo;For them to turn up here itself is a fantastic gift for all of us,&rdquo; said Ali. Reflecting on the journey, he added, &ldquo;It has been an exciting ride. The last 10 years were full of ups and downs, but breaking into the Indonesian market was a major achievement.&rdquo;
The trio also revealed they have been hard at work on a brand-new album to coincide with their 10th anniversary. &ldquo;We want this album to be special,&rdquo; they shared. &ldquo;And we hope those who have been with us from the beginning will also join us at the concert&mdash;it&rsquo;s a gift for them too.&rdquo;
You can stream their music below:
<iframe style="border-radius: 12px;" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/artist/2r1WoyhX1FSc7AmcF8rkoO?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" loading="lazy"></iframe>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Don’t miss MASDO live this 30th August – it’s their biggest show yet!

3a380d067c0d6de7c8140b7cea203a7b599619fbd4c4b333dc798bd40bff1ca0

MASDO To Mark A Decade With “Al-Kisah Masdo Sepuloh Tahun” Concert!

The federal government is actively exploring the possibility of broadening the scope of its FLYSiswa initiative to include land transport subsidies for students in Peninsular Malaysia. This potential expansion of the programme&mdash;currently limited to subsidised air travel&mdash;was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during a dialogue session at the Management and Science University (MSU) in Shah Alam on Monday.
Calls to Extend FLYSiswa Beyond Air Travel
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d81bea9b68f60e671282fdc87aea7736db677d2d4a80a913b01167a8b4498c9c" />
The proposal came in response to a question from a student participant, who suggested that the government extend the FLYSiswa initiative to land-based transport such as buses and trains. The student noted that many students in the peninsula still struggle with travel costs when returning home, particularly those attending universities far from their hometowns.
Anwar acknowledged the concern and said the idea warranted serious consideration. He confirmed that discussions would soon be held with Transport Minister Anthony Loke to evaluate how the scheme could be adapted to better serve students throughout the country&mdash;not just those travelling between East and West Malaysia.
"As for FLYSiswa in the peninsula, I&rsquo;ll discuss it with the Transport Minister,&rdquo; Anwar said. &ldquo;Perhaps for certain areas or specific locations, we can look into implementing it. The needs of students in the peninsula are just as important and deserve to be reviewed.&rdquo;
What is FLYSiswa?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7b926fa80d674293c5e3d5cc5455736884d622380625523f8188030e3ec5a745" />
The FLYSiswa programme is an annual government initiative introduced under the Ministry of Transport. It provides subsidies for flight tickets for students at public universities, polytechnics, and community colleges under the Ministry of Higher Education, as well as students in matriculation centres and teacher training institutes under the Ministry of Education.
Its core aim is to ease the financial burden of students travelling long distances for academic purposes, especially those commuting between Peninsular Malaysia and the states of Sabah, Sarawak, and the Federal Territory of Labuan. The scheme has proven particularly vital during festive periods, when airfares can surge dramatically due to high demand.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4048/flysiswa-2025-how-to-apply-for-the-public-university-travel-subsidy">FLYsiswa 2025: How To Apply For The Public University Travel Subsidy</a>
High Airfares During Festive Seasons Prompt Government Action
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ed489deaa1b776141067ae9e3eda26299c076509630e9c8e69d98a85e71c1612" />
Anwar noted that the primary reason East Malaysian students were prioritised in the current FLYSiswa rollout is due to the consistently high price of domestic flights to and from the Bornean states. He said airfares tend to rise sharply around Hari Raya, Christmas, and other festive periods, placing immense financial pressure on families and students.
"We need to ensure that ticket prices remain reasonable and that there is no price exploitation," the Prime Minister stressed. &ldquo;If a ticket usually costs RM20 and suddenly doubles during a festive season, that&rsquo;s unacceptable. The government is duty-bound to intervene and create mechanisms to prevent such unreasonable hikes.&rdquo;
He added that while airline fare regulation falls under the purview of market forces, there must be a balance to prevent profit-maximising practices from disadvantaging those who can least afford them.
Inclusion of Land Transport Would Mark Major Shift 
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/df38df80ddbebf3a77316de31f48966ec02547a0cee8784814d79728329df7b0" />
If implemented, the expansion of FLYSiswa to include land transport in Peninsular Malaysia would be a significant shift in policy. It could potentially cover bus and train travel for students who face long or costly commutes between their hometowns and university campuses, especially in rural or underserved areas.
While the Prime Minister did not confirm the exact modalities or timeline for such an expansion, he reiterated the government&rsquo;s commitment to ensuring equitable access to education-related support for all students, regardless of geography.
Revamping the Perdana Fellow Programme for Greater Youth Access
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2784947d97aafb7ec15848de0099b4c32654cd233a35ef0e944757264a7a6b06" />
In a related announcement, Anwar also revealed plans to expand and improve the Perdana Fellow Programme. The initiative, established in 2013, was designed to expose young Malaysians to the inner workings of government through direct mentorship under ministers and senior officials.
According to the Prime Minister, the Akademi Kenegaraan Malaysia is spearheading a review of the programme to allow more young people to participate, including those who may not qualify for the current highly selective intake.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re in discussions to enhance the programme, and not everyone needs to be an official fellow to benefit,&rdquo; Anwar explained. &ldquo;We want to provide opportunities for more young Malaysians to interact with national scholars, senior leaders, and policymakers in structured, meaningful ways.&rdquo;
He stressed that the programme plays a crucial role in helping future leaders understand the responsibilities of governance while shielding them from misinformation and baseless accusations about the administration&rsquo;s work.
Engaging the Youth Through Exposure and Opportunity
The Prime Minister emphasised that initiatives like FLYSiswa and the Perdana Fellow Programme are part of the government&rsquo;s broader effort to invest in Malaysia&rsquo;s future by empowering its youth.
&ldquo;We must ensure our young people are supported not just in their academic journey, but also in their development as informed, capable citizens,&rdquo; he said.
The Temu Anwar session at MSU was attended by over 4,000 students and marked the Prime Minister&rsquo;s first formal engagement with a private university. Also present were Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, MSU President Tan Sri Dr Mohd Shukri Ab Yajid, and Vice-Chancellor Prof Puan Sri Dr Junainah Abd Hamid.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Since some areas are harder to reach, land transport offers a more practical and cost-effective alternative.

6b2aac4daac1fba6405d99345db574e90f7bb3469ee500e47dac76971941dea9

Govt May Expand FLYSiswa To Include Land Transport For Peninsular Students, Says Anwar

Malaysia&rsquo;s real wages have deteriorated drastically over the past four decades, leaving today&rsquo;s workforce with significantly reduced purchasing power, former Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) Governor Tan Sri Muhammad Ibrahim warned in a recent interview with Sinar Harian. He remarked that many Malaysian graduates are now trapped in low-income jobs despite the country&rsquo;s economic growth, and are increasingly unable to meet basic life milestones such as home or car ownership.
Recalling his own experience, Muhammad said he earned RM1,300 upon entering the job market in 1984. Today, a typical fresh graduate earns between RM2,000 and RM3,000 monthly&mdash;a marginal increase in nominal terms that doesn&rsquo;t reflect the sharp rise in living costs. When adjusted for inflation&mdash;assuming a conservative annual rate of 5%&mdash;today&rsquo;s graduates should be earning closer to RM7,000 to RM8,000 to match the purchasing power of their 1980s counterparts.
&ldquo;In real terms, salaries today are only a third of what they used to be,&rdquo; he said, adding that if current trends continue, today&rsquo;s young people may never enjoy the same quality of life his generation did.
The Rise of the Low-Income Graduate
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8b9b1df643980df936b15d80d18d4cd0dc132c1876493e893f16a7f82f9ea0b9" />
Quoting recent data from the Ministry of Higher Education, Muhammad pointed out that around 40% of university graduates today earn less than RM2,000 per month in their first job. He believes this is a clear indication that the country&rsquo;s education and economic systems are not aligned with the demands of a competitive, modern workforce.
&ldquo;Without major reforms in our education and economic frameworks, we are condemning our youth to a future dominated by low-skilled, low-paying jobs,&rdquo; he said. He warned that Malaysia continues to lag behind other nations that were once on par with or even behind Malaysia in the 1960s, including Taiwan, South Korea, China, and Japan&mdash;all of which now enjoy far higher standards of living due to sustained structural reform.
Foreign Labour Suppressing Wage Growth
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5406ec1a17a9d7bf3194d18b8d4f0f3a9b308046fa34fae7aa9052f441ee73c0" />
Muhammad also addressed the impact of Malaysia&rsquo;s heavy reliance on foreign labour, which has contributed to wage stagnation&mdash;particularly for the country&rsquo;s B40 income group. As of 31 December 2024, there were 16.78 million workers in the country, with 2.37 million or roughly 14% of them being foreign workers.
These foreign workers primarily fill 3D (dirty, dangerous, and difficult) jobs in sectors such as construction, manufacturing, agriculture, food services, and domestic work. While these jobs are often shunned by locals, the influx of low-cost labour from countries like Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Nepal has created wage suppression for Malaysians in similar roles.
&ldquo;When employers can hire workers cheaply, they have no incentive to raise wages for locals. This affects our citizens directly, particularly those in the B40 segment,&rdquo; Muhammad explained.
A Growing Brain Drain: Nurses, Labourers, and the Search for Better Pay
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/98e2ef14dd46045ab74a765328aa4a01be2305e38cc96f307eb39f9fb5a9095d" />
Malaysia is not only failing to retain its skilled workforce&mdash;it is also losing talent to neighbouring countries with better wages. Muhammad highlighted that many local nurses are now migrating to Singapore, Saudi Arabia, or the UAE, where they can earn two to four times more than they would at home.
For example, JobStreet data shows that a nurse in Malaysia earns between RM2,700 and RM3,400 a month, while in Singapore, the salary ranges from RM11,000 to RM13,000. Even Saudi Arabia offers nearly RM7,000 per month.
Beyond white-collar professionals, Muhammad noted an increase in Malaysians crossing into Singapore to perform menial work. &ldquo;This isn&rsquo;t just brain drain&mdash;it&rsquo;s now even low-skilled drain,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;If we don&rsquo;t address this soon, Malaysia may one day become a labour-exporting country, with our children working as maids or labourers abroad.&rdquo;
Income Reclassification Misses the Bigger Picture
In response to the government&rsquo;s recent proposal to update income classifications&mdash;changing the B40, M40, and T20 system to B20, M50, and T30 based on consumption data&mdash;Muhammad said the new categorisation risks masking the real challenges of wage stagnation and cost-of-living pressures.
He argued that income-based benchmarks remain critical, as consumption patterns can be misleading, particularly when driven by debt or necessity. &ldquo;If you use the older income definitions, the B40 group probably now encompasses 60% of the population, not just 40%, due to post-COVID economic strain, low savings, and wage stagnation.&rdquo;
GDP Growth Is Not the Only Measure of Progress
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/22a9e4e83055f7cdd1d63ffcdcda10cf416dc4f30fb6da1e70054dc4586bb5bf" />
Muhammad also criticised the nation&rsquo;s obsession with GDP growth as a benchmark for success. &ldquo;GDP doesn&rsquo;t put food on the table,&rdquo; he said bluntly. &ldquo;Real progress should be measured through employment quality, wage growth, and job structure&mdash;not aggregate output.&rdquo;
He noted that at international forums such as the World Economic Forum in Davos, discussions in developed countries have shifted from GDP to employment outcomes. &ldquo;The real question they ask is: what kinds of jobs are being created? That&rsquo;s where Malaysia needs to start focusing,&rdquo; he added.
Urgent Reforms Needed to Avoid Long-Term Decline
Despite the grim outlook, Muhammad said Malaysia still has time to reverse course. He pointed to the remarkable growth trajectories of East Asian economies that once had lower per capita incomes than Malaysia but have since surged ahead through long-term reform in education, technology, and governance.
&ldquo;We cannot continue benchmarking ourselves against regional peers who are also struggling. We must aim higher,&rdquo; he said.
He concluded with a warning: &ldquo;Without a bold and decisive push for structural change, we risk raising a generation that is poorer than the last, unable to afford homes, education, or healthcare, and forced to look overseas for dignity and opportunity.&rdquo;
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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Adjusted for inflation, graduate salaries today should be at least RM7,000 to RM8,000. 

1254876841663624d39e980db9c2b93f80e0bd826af3bf2c5e6c4faf4ff6f6b7

Former BNM Governor: Malaysian Real Wages Have Dropped Threefold Since The 1980s

Conservative American commentator Bill O&rsquo;Reilly has reignited tensions with Malaysia after doubling down on controversial remarks suggesting Southeast Asian countries, including Malaysia, lack the financial means to benefit from Chinese trade relations. The former Fox News host&rsquo;s comments drew sharp criticism from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who accused O&rsquo;Reilly of holding a worldview rooted in colonialism and racial superiority.
Xi Jinping&rsquo;s Regional Tour Sparks Economic Debate 
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2f7aebc041329cdd6e457b355330ed4e677bf6ab968aa120dfb644b6e0da3bc7" />
The dispute stems from Chinese President Xi Jinping&rsquo;s recent diplomatic tour of Malaysia, Vietnam, and Cambodia &mdash; a strategic move by Beijing in light of escalating trade tensions with the United States, including a newly imposed 145% tariff on Chinese goods.
O&rsquo;Reilly responded to Xi&rsquo;s visit by questioning the economic value of China&rsquo;s outreach to the three Southeast Asian nations. He suggested these countries lacked the financial capacity to purchase Chinese-made products, sarcastically declaring: &ldquo;We have the money, we buy stuff. The &lsquo;Malays&rsquo; aren&rsquo;t gonna buy your stuff. They don&rsquo;t have any money.&rdquo;
His use of the ethnic term &ldquo;Malays&rdquo; to generalise the entire Malaysian population further provoked backlash online, with many accusing O&rsquo;Reilly of cultural ignorance and racial insensitivity. Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4248/xi-jinpings-southeast-asia-tour-draws-mockery-from-us-commentator-but-malaysias-economic-numbers-tell-a-different-story">Xi Jinping&rsquo;s Southeast Asia Tour Draws Mockery From US Commentator &ndash; But Malaysia&rsquo;s Economic Numbers Tell A Different Story</a>
Anwar Hits Back: &ldquo;Xenophobia, Racism, and Colonial Arrogance&rdquo;
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/08bbca4443221f96e4102a5acfecd8f583bbc2966c981a0e99634993d3cc665c" />
In a strong rebuttal, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim lambasted O&rsquo;Reilly&rsquo;s statements as not only factually flawed but also emblematic of a deeper, more insidious mindset.
&ldquo;He is clearly trapped in a narrow worldview shaped by colonialism, racism, and xenophobia,&rdquo; said Anwar, who also serves as Malaysia&rsquo;s Finance Minister. &ldquo;It reflects a deep ignorance of the socioeconomic realities in Southeast Asia and a belief that only their group or nation is successful.&rdquo;
Anwar&rsquo;s remarks were widely supported by Malaysians and regional observers, who viewed O&rsquo;Reilly&rsquo;s comments as dismissive of the economic progress made by developing nations in Asia.
O&rsquo;Reilly Responds with More Provocation &mdash; and Geography Errors
In a subsequent YouTube video, O&rsquo;Reilly read out Anwar&rsquo;s response, appearing both amused and unrepentant. He reiterated his claim that Malaysians &ldquo;don&rsquo;t have money&rdquo; by citing Malaysia&rsquo;s household income per capita, which he claimed stands at US$5,731 annually (~RM25,110), compared to the US figure of US$42,220 (~RM184,585).
&ldquo;That's eight times higher,&rdquo; O&rsquo;Reilly declared. &ldquo;So if you want to buy a little hat, and you're only making five grand a year, you're not gonna buy it. You're not getting Chinese takeout either in Kuala Lumpur. You're barely eating.&rdquo;
He added, &ldquo;China is not going to be able to sell its stuff in your country, or Vietnam, or Cambodia. Got it?&rdquo;
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/V85NEV6pQZM" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Despite the inflammatory tone, O&rsquo;Reilly did attempt to soften his comments by acknowledging that Malaysia is a &ldquo;beautiful&rdquo; country &mdash; albeit one he described as &ldquo;complicated.&rdquo; He also claimed he wanted the country to succeed but cheekily concluded, &ldquo;this &lsquo;colonialist&rsquo; has told the truth.&rdquo;
However, the commentator went on to confuse Malaysia with Indonesia, wrongly stating that former US President Barack Obama was &ldquo;partially raised in Malaysia.&rdquo; In fact, Obama spent part of his childhood in Indonesia &mdash; an entirely separate country. The factual gaffe further undermined O&rsquo;Reilly&rsquo;s credibility, especially among viewers in Southeast Asia.
The Flawed Economic Comparison: A Misunderstanding of Local Realities
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ce282d27b51434ea8b4d878053177e3f809da63fcc1e8d47c8593eff0347b0dc" />
While the household income figures quoted by O&rsquo;Reilly are broadly accurate &mdash; with Malaysia&rsquo;s data taken from CEIC and correct as of late 2022 &mdash; his interpretation of those numbers lacks nuance. Economic analysts were quick to point out that comparing raw income figures between two vastly different economies without considering the cost of living and purchasing power parity (PPP) paints a misleading picture.
According to forecasts from Statista, Malaysia&rsquo;s household disposable income per capita is projected to rise to RM32,228 (~USD7,370) by 2025. When adjusted for PPP, the income disparity between Malaysia and the US narrows considerably, offering a more accurate representation of everyday purchasing power.
Furthermore, O&rsquo;Reilly&rsquo;s claim that Malaysians are &ldquo;barely eating&rdquo; and can&rsquo;t afford Chinese take-out in Kuala Lumpur drew widespread mockery online. In truth, Chinese cuisine is among the most common and affordable foods in Malaysia. Local Chinese restaurants, hawker stalls, and kopitiams offer hearty meals for as little as RM6 to RM20 &mdash; easily within the reach of most working and middle-class residents.
A Clash of Cultures &mdash; or Just Misinformation?
&nbsp;<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/bf8f9e0672ef18e5532af95f858eae6bc18c59785f744c785baa6a73d7f42766" />
O&rsquo;Reilly&rsquo;s long-standing relationship with US President Donald Trump and his deep roots in American conservative media have helped shape public opinion in the United States for decades. However, his latest comments have highlighted a broader issue: the cultural blind spots and outdated assumptions that still exist in Western commentary on Asia.
While O&rsquo;Reilly may find support from sections of the American right, many in Southeast Asia viewed his remarks as tone-deaf, outdated, and laced with condescension. As Anwar and others have pointed out, such statements not only misrepresent the region&rsquo;s progress but also reinforce dangerous stereotypes about the Global South.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments from netizens:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/286074c669df0c5f11a2f4de26b0e5871fcfc66b5acef40c8ea242c653e5fb72" />
Conclusion: More Than Just a Viral Clip
What began as a throwaway comment in a YouTube video has now morphed into a diplomatic and cultural flashpoint, illustrating how global discourse is increasingly shaped by online personalities with outsized influence.
In this case, Bill O&rsquo;Reilly&rsquo;s reductive take on Southeast Asia&rsquo;s economy sparked a much-needed conversation &mdash; not just about income disparities, but about the lingering legacies of colonial attitudes and the importance of understanding nations on their own terms.
&nbsp;What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Even with eight times less household income per capita, Malaysians don’t suffer as much as the average American.

eeb00258686da6dff7bf601317ec304fe039ba4a5f37a93c56e77539c5199872

Bill O’Reilly Doubles Down On “No Money” Claim As Anwar Ibrahim Fires Back

As the United States reinstates heavy tariffs on Chinese imports under former President Donald Trump, a new trade controversy is emerging &mdash; and Malaysia finds itself unwillingly at the centre of it. Reports have surfaced that unscrupulous freight brokers based in China are rerouting goods through Malaysia and mislabelling them as "Made in Malaysia" to evade the steep US duties, raising serious concerns over the potential damage to Malaysia's trade reputation.
From Trade Partner to Transit Point: Malaysia&rsquo;s Role in a Rising Smuggling Tactic
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4d8cc18d4a0ca3a7db37c9bc2a167dafe4a6f5789aa5c653a38e7fb11337eb08" />
According to reports by Malay Mail and Bloomberg, China-based logistics brokers have been offering US online retailers highly suspicious services to cut down on shipping costs. These include falsifying the country of origin and undervaluing shipments &mdash; with Malaysia being one of the key countries misused in this deception. Some brokers even go as far as posing as importers themselves, offering to handle the documentation and falsely declare the goods as Malaysian-made.
&ldquo;Many clients are now choosing to route Chinese products through Malaysia and claim they are made here,&rdquo; said one freight broker to Bloomberg. The motivation is clear: while Chinese goods are currently facing tariffs as high as 145% in the United States, products genuinely originating from Malaysia are only subject to a 24% import duty.
The scheme is not only unethical but also illegal under US customs law. False declarations of origin constitute a serious offence and may result in civil or criminal penalties for all parties involved &mdash; including sellers, brokers, and importers. As of now, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has not officially confirmed whether enforcement has been ramped up, though they have reiterated that public reports and complaints through their online portal remain a key part of enforcement efforts.
Trump&rsquo;s Tariff Surge Sparks a Wave of Workarounds
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6bcb751a7431f4b2e92f42c60b618422d15d5c3547bafa7eed5f254cc236183f" />
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4265/us-slaps-up-to-3521percent-tariffs-on-asean-solar-panels-threatening-malaysias-export-industry">US Slaps Up To 3,521% Tariffs On ASEAN Solar Panels, Threatening Malaysia&rsquo;s Export Industry</a> Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4218/the-impact-of-new-us-tariffs-on-malaysia-jobs-prices-and-the-iphone">The Impact Of New US Tariffs On Malaysia: Jobs, Prices, And The iPhone</a>
This illicit practice appears to have surged after Trump&rsquo;s announcement earlier this month of a new round of trade tariffs, starting at 10% for all imports into the US. Specifically, China has been targeted with the steepest hikes &mdash; first 54%, then 104%, and most recently a staggering 145%. China retaliated by imposing 125% tariffs on US goods, prompting fears of a full-blown trade war echoing previous years.
Even Malaysia &mdash; previously unaffected by the bulk of US trade restrictions &mdash; was not spared. Under Trump&rsquo;s revised policy, Malaysian exports to the US now face a 24% import tariff. Although significantly lower than the Chinese rate, it still marks a steep increase from previous levels and could pose challenges for legitimate Malaysian exporters.
The escalating tariff war has caused an upheaval in the global supply chain. Some Chinese companies are now resorting to third-country transhipment strategies to sidestep duties &mdash; with Malaysia and even South Korea among the countries being exploited as part of this growing black market workaround.
South Korea Faces Similar Challenges with Mislabelled Chinese Goods
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e4e9aa3a91010b9cc4c8d83659a4fbf4a16525928c0522d2834663ff1275d047" />
Malaysia is not alone in this predicament. South Korea, too, has discovered large-scale violations involving Chinese goods being falsely labelled as South Korean exports. According to the Korea Customs Service, a staggering 29.5 billion won (~RM91,000,000) worth of goods with incorrect origin labels were uncovered in just the first quarter of 2025 &mdash; with 97% of them destined for the US market.
The violations include Chinese-made cathode materials and surveillance equipment that were either reassembled in South Korea or relabelled outright before being shipped to the United States. Some of these goods had already been exported, while others were intercepted at the port.
In response, the Korea Customs Service has launched a special task force and is working closely with US authorities to crack down on these illegal transhipment practices. All violations are expected to be forwarded to prosecutors for legal action.
Malaysia Urged to Act Swiftly to Protect Its Trade Integrity
Malaysian trade analysts are now sounding the alarm. If this misuse continues unchecked, Malaysia&rsquo;s international credibility as a law-abiding trade partner could be at risk. The country's legitimate exporters may find themselves subject to heightened scrutiny by US authorities, leading to delays, increased compliance checks, and potential blacklisting.
There are growing calls for the Malaysian government to act decisively. Trade groups and analysts alike have urged authorities to investigate any abuse of Malaysia&rsquo;s national label and clamp down on foreign attempts to exploit its relatively favourable tariff position. They argue that failing to act could result in long-term reputational damage, making it harder for Malaysian exporters to maintain market access abroad.
&ldquo;Malaysia needs to take swift action to prevent being used as a cover for tariff evasion. This is not just about trade, but about safeguarding our nation's integrity,&rdquo; one analyst said
Understanding Tariffs and Why They Matter
&nbsp;<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/ebdd724d306175630884f79b28dbb2541fa11e0b59529929bfd382852e84cb8c" />
For those unfamiliar with trade policy, tariffs are essentially taxes imposed by one country on goods imported from another. The idea is to make foreign products more expensive, thereby protecting domestic industries and discouraging reliance on overseas suppliers.
But while tariffs serve a political and economic purpose, they also create ripple effects. For instance, Malaysian Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz previously explained that a shirt originally priced at USD 100 (~RM656.25) could cost as much as USD 154 (~RM673.75) after a 54% tariff &mdash; a cost that is typically borne by end consumers rather than corporations.
According to the Tax Foundation, tariffs are a regressive form of taxation. They disproportionately affect low-income households, who end up spending a larger share of their income on essential goods that have suddenly become more expensive due to import taxes.
A Trade War With Global Consequences
As Trump hints at a possible reduction in the 145% tariff on Chinese goods &mdash; stating it will "drop significantly, but not to zero" &mdash; the uncertainty continues to roil global markets. What is clear, however, is that countries like Malaysia must tread carefully. Being caught in the crossfire of a geopolitical trade war not only endangers economic interests but also risks entanglement in a global web of fraud and deception.
Malaysia must now navigate these turbulent waters with a firm stance, ensuring its name is not co-opted by foreign actors for unlawful gain, and upholding its hard-earned reputation as a responsible global trading partner. The time to act is now.
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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South Korea also uncovered falsely labelled goods, highlighting the scale of the transhipment schemes.

5ef2f3dbbc062a17bffd7944ae008473645f6f720f5fd9a0a84e976ec262a450

Malaysia Caught In US-China Trade War As Chinese Firms Mislabel Exports To Avoid Tariffs

The United States has imposed sweeping new import duties on solar panels from four Southeast Asian countries &mdash; Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand &mdash; in a move that is shaking up the global solar industry. The decision, aimed at bolstering American manufacturers, has drawn sharp criticism from industry players in the region and may have far-reaching implications for solar supply chains, investment flows, and green energy goals.
Tariffs of Up to 3,521% Following Yearlong Investigation
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fd7a24e27afef6e0915ae6627b58d78ae9ef4e8287ffe2a759532d0820fa1996" />
The new tariffs, announced by the US Department of Commerce, are the result of a year-long anti-dumping and countervailing duties (AD/CVD) investigation. The probe concluded that manufacturers in the four ASEAN countries unfairly benefitted from Chinese government subsidies and sold solar products in the US at below-market prices. The investigation was originally initiated during the Biden administration and pursued under pressure from a coalition of US solar manufacturers.
The resulting duties are staggering: Cambodia has been hit with the highest rate &mdash; a colossal 3,521% &mdash; after it reportedly ceased cooperation with the US probe. Vietnam and Thailand face tariffs of up to 396% and 375% respectively. Malaysia, though assessed more leniently by comparison, still received a nationwide rate of 34.4%, with certain companies facing significantly higher duties due to a lack of cooperation. Jinko Solar, for example, was assessed at 40% for exports from Malaysia and 245% for Vietnam. Trina Solar faces levies exceeding 375% for Thai exports and over 200% for those from Vietnam, while JA Solar modules from Vietnam could be taxed at around 120%.
US Seeks to Protect Domestic Manufacturers Amid Political Push
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/33fce60b543e0905b4ffe8a1fcce3178186ae6e439fcd15f89aea606ac6f92ab" />
The imposition of these tariffs aligns with US efforts to revitalise its domestic manufacturing base &mdash; a bipartisan goal under both former President Joe Biden and President Donald Trump. Under the Inflation Reduction Act, the Biden administration has pushed for greater domestic production of renewable energy components, including solar panels.
&ldquo;This is a decisive victory for American manufacturing,&rdquo; said Tim Brightbill, co-chair of Wiley&rsquo;s international trade practice and counsel for the coalition of solar companies that brought the case. He accused Chinese-headquartered solar companies of exploiting trade loopholes to undermine US firms and cost American workers their jobs.
American solar manufacturers such as Hanwha Q Cells and First Solar Inc. are likely to be among the beneficiaries of the new policy, which is intended to curb reliance on lower-cost imports and protect US market share.
Malaysia&rsquo;s Solar Sector Under Pressure
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/dcf345cd6cb0575de93d0828366e50c139a0281994c641993d92dd391c370526" />
The impact on Malaysia could be substantial. The country exported RM12.5 billion worth of photovoltaic (PV) products to the US in 2024 &mdash; around 33.4% of its total RM37.4 billion in solar exports. While Malaysia's blanket tariff rate of 34.4% is lower than those imposed on its regional peers, several companies have been subject to rates as high as 81.24%, mainly due to non-compliance with the investigation.
The Malaysia Photovoltaic Industry Association (MPIA) warned that the latest tariffs could be the final blow for Chinese-owned solar manufacturers operating in Malaysia, many of whom were already reeling from previous rounds of US trade restrictions. MPIA president Davis Chong noted that these firms were "almost killed off" by earlier tariffs and are now accelerating their exit from Malaysia, relocating production to other regions such as South Asia or the Middle East.
Several major Chinese players &mdash; including JinkoSolar, JA Solar, Risen Energy, and Longi Green Technology &mdash; have reportedly scaled back or suspended their Malaysian operations. Risen Energy, for example, had committed to a RM42 billion investment plan in Malaysia over 15 years but may now reconsider its future in the country.
Global Solar Oversupply and Market Reactions
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/13ef7cef551c59d832b2c984a1e2388325b641846bc18cfd826bbfd8b8c28f6b" />
The global solar industry is already grappling with oversupply, and the new US tariffs could worsen the imbalance. Malaysian industry leaders have said they do not expect mass "fire sales" of solar panels unless manufacturers are looking to clear inventory ahead of plant closures. However, the market impact is being closely watched.
TA Securities has predicted only a "mild" short-term effect from excess supply, as solar panel prices are already near the bottom. MPIA&rsquo;s Davis Chong believes prices will likely stay below US$0.10 per watt, benefitting local solar installers and developers who continue to source most of their panels from China.
Malaysian installation firms such as Solarvest Holdings Bhd and Samaiden Group Bhd reported minimal earnings impact from the new tariffs, as they do not rely heavily on US exports and benefit from the global surplus in supply.
Risk of Broader Economic Fallout
Beyond the solar sector, concerns are rising over the potential macroeconomic impact on Malaysia&rsquo;s role as a major player in the global renewable energy supply chain. Tan Sri Soh Thian Lai, president of the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM), warned that the country&rsquo;s status as a global solar hub could be jeopardised. He cautioned that the new US duties may prompt manufacturers to halt production, delay expansion, or shift operations elsewhere.
Solar exports account for approximately 2.08% of Malaysia&rsquo;s total RM601.2 billion in electrical and electronics exports in 2024. While this may seem modest, the solar industry is strategically important for Malaysia&rsquo;s green economy transition and its investment attraction strategies, particularly through tax holidays and other incentives.
Looking Ahead: More Tariffs to Come?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/883a74277265963524f290cd89a9d65310e78feddf68d2b12cf6494e1476fb6c" />
The US International Trade Commission (USITC) is expected to deliver a final ruling by 2 June 2025 on whether American solar manufacturers have indeed suffered material harm. If the USITC affirms the findings, the newly proposed tariffs will become permanent.
However, analysts warn that this may not be the end of US trade actions. Countries such as Indonesia, India, and Laos &mdash; which have seen growing solar manufacturing investments in recent years &mdash; could face similar scrutiny and duties in the next wave of trade defence measures. Indonesia, for instance, is projected to host over 20 gigawatts of foreign-owned solar capacity by mid-2025, up from just 1 gigawatt in 2022.
JA Solar, for its part, has already announced it will open a new manufacturing plant in Oman by the end of 2025 as part of a broader strategy to diversify away from tariff-hit countries and reduce reliance on the US market.
Conclusion: A Crossroads for the Solar Industry
The US tariffs mark a pivotal moment for the global solar industry. While they promise to stimulate American manufacturing and address long-standing complaints about unfair trade practices, they also threaten to fragment international supply chains and undermine cost-effective access to renewable technologies. For Malaysia and its ASEAN peers, the challenge lies in adapting to this new trade landscape while safeguarding jobs, investments, and long-term green energy ambitions.
As solar panel prices fall and global oversupply persists, the next few months could be critical in determining whether Southeast Asia can remain a key pillar of the solar energy revolution &mdash; or whether the centre of gravity will shift elsewhere.
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Despite a supposed 90-day pause, the US just hit four ASEAN nations with massive new solar tariffs.

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