Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Money

finance

ewallet

loans

digital banking

GX Bank

FlexiCredit

TNG eWallet users now have another option when it comes to accessing financing, following a new partnership between TNG Digital and GXBank.
Through the integration, eligible users can now apply for GXBank FlexiCredit directly through the CashLoan feature in the TNG eWallet app, without having to open a separate GXBank bank account.
The move expands TNG eWallet&rsquo;s growing financial services ecosystem, giving its more than 27 million verified users access to another form of regulated financing through an app many already use for their daily transactions.
What Is GXBank FlexiCredit?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/92d93520ecc80fe04982ad00ae51835720ae6a4d0f62dc20cdee7fe6d75444e4" />
Unlike a conventional personal loan that gives you a fixed lump sum, FlexiCredit works as a revolving line of credit.
Once approved, users receive a credit limit of up to RM150,000, which they can draw from whenever they need it. Instead of borrowing the entire amount upfront, users only take out the money they require.
As the amount borrowed is repaid, the available credit limit is replenished, meaning users can access the remaining facility again without submitting a new application. GXBank says there are also no annual or processing fees, while interest is only charged on the amount actually drawn down.
Repayment periods range from six to 60 months, with flat interest rates starting from 3.78% per annum, equivalent to an effective interest rate of 6.45% per annum.
Apply Without Opening A New Bank Account
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/876a223f059ee8f8e3b6533bf53769016e60dc3fb77b3174590361e7e7f6512e" />
One of the main benefits of the new TNG eWallet integration is that eligible users do not need to open a separate GXBank account to apply.
The application can be completed through GOFinance &gt; CashLoan within the TNG eWallet app.
Users can select their preferred credit limit and repayment tenure, provide their income information and complete the required identity verification. Depending on their employment status, supporting documents such as an EPF statement or bank statement may also be required.
TNG Digital and GXBank said the integration is aimed at making regulated financing more accessible, particularly for Malaysians who may have limited credit history or find traditional banking processes more difficult to navigate.
Who Can Apply For FlexiCredit?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ee07f0996c5f45fbe73d571754b6048b6eea83f80c91b7474703f3b61b9877d9" />
The facility is available to eligible Malaysian citizens who meet GXBank's requirements.
Applicants need to have a fully verified TNG eWallet account and meet the applicable age and income criteria. The stated minimum gross income is RM1,500 per month, or RM18,000 annually, with both salaried and self-employed individuals able to apply.
However, approval is not guaranteed simply because someone meets the basic requirements.
The financing offer shown through CashLoan is determined based on the applicant's eligibility, requested amount and repayment period, as well as the bank's credit assessment and applicable regulatory requirements.
How To Apply Through TNG eWallet
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/29A9JkvkrFk" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
The application process is designed to be completed digitally.
After opening the TNG eWallet app, users can tap GOFinance, head to CashLoan and select GXBank FlexiCredit.
From there, applicants can choose their desired credit limit and repayment tenure before providing their financial and employment details.
Once submitted, applications can typically be processed within minutes, although the actual approval time may vary depending on the information and documents required.
Approved users can then access their available credit through the CashLoan dashboard and draw down funds when needed.
What Could Malaysians Use It For?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/24e34c656579bf901b537f43fbb8bcb6153a30f6f5e80c23ab5786b6e5661fc0" />
According to GXBank, existing FlexiCredit users are using the facility for purposes including emergencies, managing cash flow and making larger purchases.
Its revolving structure could be useful for people who do not necessarily need a large amount of money at once but want access to an approved credit facility when unexpected expenses arise.
However, as with any form of borrowing, users should consider the interest costs and ensure they are comfortable with the repayment commitments before drawing down funds.
Part Of TNG eWallet's Growing Financial Ecosystem
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/35d58c747003fdd8d6d5a745335d6dd165bee65e679b50709458dc9f430ca6d7" />
The partnership is part of TNG Digital's wider push to turn TNG eWallet into more than just a payments platform.
Its GOFinance hub already brings together various financial services, including investments, insurance, credit and remittance options. By integrating products from financial institutions such as GXBank, TNG Digital is aiming to create a broader financial ecosystem within a platform Malaysians already use regularly.
For GXBank, meanwhile, bringing FlexiCredit directly into TNG eWallet provides another way to reach customers who may prefer managing their finances digitally.
Another Step Into Digital Banking
The new integration means eligible Malaysians can now access up to RM150,000 in revolving credit through TNG eWallet, without needing to separately sign up for a GXBank account.
With flexible repayment periods and the ability to draw funds only when needed, FlexiCredit is positioned as an alternative to traditional lump-sum personal loans.
Still, the key point is that it remains a credit facility, not free cash. Users should carefully consider the interest rate, repayment period and amount they can realistically afford before using it.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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You can now apply for GXBank FlexiCredit via TNG eWallet without opening a separate bank account.

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TNG eWallet Users Can Now Apply For GXBank FlexiCredit Of Up To RM150,000

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Coke Fifa

Former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has been granted a conditional royal pardon, allowing him to serve the remainder of his prison sentence under house arrest until 23 August 2028, subject to the payment of a RM50 million fine and compliance with the conditions imposed.
The decision was made during the 64th meeting of the Pardons Board for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya at Istana Negara on Friday (18 September), chaired by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia.
The Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) of the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Department said Najib must comply with all conditions attached to the conditional pardon. If he fails to comply with any of them, the pardon will be revoked and he will have to return to prison to serve the remainder of his sentence.
Najib&rsquo;s Prison Sentence Was Previously Reduced
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8babeb5084c55f88d5a9142d37b405a88c8debb861a67e45200ee14df4acf6c4" />
Najib, 73, has been serving his sentence at Kajang Prison since 23 August 2022 following his conviction in the SRC International case involving RM42 million.
He was originally sentenced to 12 years in prison and fined RM210 million after being found guilty of seven charges involving abuse of power, criminal breach of trust and money laundering.
In January 2024, the Pardons Board reduced his prison term to six years and cut the fine to RM50 million. The latest decision now allows him to serve the remainder of that sentence under house arrest, provided he meets the conditions of the pardon.
The BHEUU statement did not disclose the full details of the conditions governing the house arrest.
UMNO Launches RM50 Million Donation Drive
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/356fa21a8e724d2d10a921088ac5b20318d7d270d3bcfb8aca7b70277e0e1426" />
Following the announcement, UMNO president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the party would launch a nationwide donation drive to help Najib settle the RM50 million fine.
Zahid called on UMNO leaders, members and supporters, as well as others who wish to contribute, to do so voluntarily through an initiative that he said would be carried out transparently, systematically and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
However, specific details on how the fundraising campaign will be administered or how donations will be collected have not yet been announced. Zahid also expressed UMNO&rsquo;s gratitude to Sultan Ibrahim for the conditional pardon, saying the decision brought relief to Najib, his family and members of the party.
He said UMNO had pursued the matter through the established channels and reiterated the party&rsquo;s stated commitment to respecting the Malay Rulers, the Federal Constitution and the rule of law.
Wanita UMNO has also backed the fundraising initiative, urging its leaders and members at all levels to contribute voluntarily according to their means through the official channels that will be announced by the party.
Anwar Says Corruption Fight Will Continue
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/05cfbb4ea6ba5c31ff09c9f7c33d5eebc2a88c7ba0731b33f9ae74d05e88efea" />
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the decision to allow Najib to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest does not weaken the government&rsquo;s commitment to fighting corruption and abuse of power.
Anwar said all corruption cases, including ongoing proceedings involving Najib, must continue according to the law. He said his role as prime minister was to provide advice on matters including legal implications, national stability and the rule of law, while taking into account advice from the Attorney General.
However, Anwar said the Constitution provides the King with the relevant powers and expressed hope that the decision would be accepted.
Asked whether clear standard operating procedures should be introduced for Najib&rsquo;s house arrest, Anwar said the matter falls under the jurisdiction of the Home Ministry.
Rafizi Calls For Greater Transparency
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e53a81bf33bba6d83e5591d321ffd34809f19dba60d1e8bf196c0fd03776faee" />
Former PKR leader Rafizi Ramli has called on Anwar and senior Pakatan Harapan leaders to provide the public with more details about the house arrest arrangement.
Rafizi said the government should at least disclose the conditions imposed on Najib so that any clear violation could be addressed through the appropriate process.
He also argued that the government had a responsibility to explain the decision to Malaysians who remain concerned about the 1MDB scandal and its wider implications.
Rafizi&rsquo;s comments represent his own political position on the issue. He also urged Malaysians to pay attention to how the house arrest is implemented and said public awareness of the 1MDB scandal should continue.
How Could Najib&rsquo;s House Arrest Work?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bcd1a023876537c79fc9b186f3c475783e50e7b4c6d77d3371f2568ad4d47a92" />
The decision has also raised questions about how house arrest will be implemented and whether similar arrangements could potentially be sought by other prisoners.
Criminal lawyer Datuk N. Sivananthan said Section 3 of the Prisons Act 1995 allows the minister to declare a house, building, enclosure or other premises as a prison through notification in the Gazette.
He said this could provide a legal mechanism for Najib&rsquo;s residence to be designated as the place where he serves his sentence.
Possible arrangements could include prison officers being stationed at the residence, electronic monitoring, restrictions on visitors and other conditions imposed by the relevant authorities. The exact arrangements, however, would depend on the conditions established for Najib&rsquo;s house arrest.
Sivananthan also described the decision as a significant development because, to his knowledge, Malaysia had not previously seen a Pardons Board allow a prisoner to serve the remainder of a sentence under house arrest. Any future applications, however, would still depend on the circumstances of each case and the relevant decision-making process.
Najib&rsquo;s Separate 1MDB Case Remains Ongoing
The house arrest arrangement applies to Najib&rsquo;s SRC International sentence and does not automatically cover his separate 1MDB case.
In December 2025, the High Court sentenced Najib to another 15 years in prison after finding him guilty of four counts of abuse of power and 21 counts of money laundering involving approximately RM2.3 billion linked to 1MDB. He has appealed against the conviction and sentence.
This means the latest conditional pardon does not bring all of Najib&rsquo;s legal proceedings to an end.
Najib also remains involved in separate civil proceedings connected to SRC International and 1MDB.
For now, the conditional pardon allows him to serve the remainder of his SRC International sentence at home until 23 August 2028, provided he pays the RM50 million fine and complies with all conditions imposed under the royal pardon. If those conditions are breached, the official statement states that the pardon will be revoked and he will be required to return to prison.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Following Najib Razak’s conditional pardon, UMNO has announced a nationwide fundraising drive to help him pay the RM50 million fine.

7eb7a265a4e97445e21d173f9d0be83d93c3efd47a15b7f718ea870fe98d441e

Najib Razak Granted Conditional Pardon To Serve Remainder Of Sentence Under House Arrest

New students entering public higher education institutions for the September/October 2026 intake will receive a one-off RM500 domestic flight ticket assistance to help cover the cost of travelling to their place of study.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the assistance will benefit 7,095 students who need to travel by air between Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan to begin their studies.
The announcement was made during the national-level Malaysia Day 2026 celebration at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on 16 September.
RM500 Aid To Help With Travel Costs
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a11020551750a9ef2cfe6d179c2115c0319402c9dc6f034d2bb58b2a4433bd71" />
The one-off assistance is intended to reduce the financial burden faced by students and their families, particularly those travelling long distances for their studies.
Eligible students include new entrants to public universities, polytechnics and community colleges for the September/October 2026 intake.
The assistance covers domestic journeys between Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan. This means students who need to fly from one region to another to begin their studies can receive RM500 towards their initial travel costs.
Anwar said the matter had been discussed with Transport Minister Anthony Loke and Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir before the assistance was approved.
Students Welcome The Assistance
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e641ea0a0d06ae1fbfd5efba0b3e65e4e18d700aa495257cb79af190786adff3" />
The announcement has been welcomed by students who face significant costs when moving to another part of Malaysia for university.
For students travelling from Sabah, Sarawak or Labuan to the peninsula, or vice versa, airfare can add considerably to the expenses of starting university.
Nur Shafeira Adrieana Mohd Faizrizey, a student from Labuan who will be studying at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), said the assistance would help ease the financial pressure on her family.
Students at UiTM Kota Samarahan also welcomed the initiative, particularly those travelling from states such as Selangor and Johor.
For many new students, airfare is only one of several expenses involved in starting higher education. Accommodation, daily necessities, learning equipment and other initial costs can quickly add up.
One-Off Assistance For Initial Journey
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3f2bbcb82a525fe715cf7f69fae792f89abbaf704ffd5c27445a05ae328cc80c" />
The RM500 payment is a one-off assistance, meaning it is intended to support students with their initial journey to their institution rather than cover their travel throughout their studies.
The measure focuses on helping students get to their new place of study at a time when families may face higher upfront expenses.
It also reflects the government's wider efforts to address cost-of-living pressures and provide support for Malaysians, particularly students and families facing higher travel costs.
Part Of Wider Malaysia Day Announcements
The flight assistance was announced alongside several other measures during the Malaysia Day celebration in Kuching. These included improvements to the BUDI Madani Diesel subsidy, as well as changes involving Sarawak's special grant.
Sarawak's interim special grant was increased to RM1.5 billion in 2026, up from RM600 million previously. The federal government also said discussions with Sabah and Sarawak would continue on developing a sustainable formula for the annual Special Grant.
The measures form part of broader efforts to ensure that opportunities and government resources reach Malaysians across different regions.
For the thousands of students preparing to begin their studies away from home, the RM500 domestic flight assistance provides some financial relief as they take the next step in their education.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Starting uni far from home? The government is offering RM500 in one-off domestic flight aid to 7,095 new students.

4b3df4841734b4c38cd69ea5719b9eb8823613fb6b72688bec8a4a622a28d81a

New Public University Students To Get RM500 Domestic Flight Aid

The government has expanded the BUDI Madani Diesel (BUDI Diesel) subsidy eligibility transfer facility, allowing registered owners of private diesel vehicles to transfer their monthly subsidy eligibility to any eligible actual user, rather than limiting it to immediate family members.
The new rules took effect on 16 September 2026, following an announcement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the national-level Malaysia Day celebrations in Kuching, Sarawak.
The change addresses concerns raised by diesel vehicle users, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak, where vehicles may be shared within households and informal arrangements such as sambung bayar are more common.
Under the revised system, eligible registered owners can transfer their BUDI Diesel eligibility to another Malaysian citizen who actually uses the designated vehicle, without changing the vehicle's registered ownership.
BUDI Diesel Transfer Expanded Beyond Family Members
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/08928e099bd916e4b66865cbe68d465dfa687d587760fd2675c2676ef45debe3" />
Previously, BUDI Diesel eligibility could only be transferred to an immediate family member who used the vehicle.
Under the new rules, the transfer can now be made to any Malaysian citizen with a valid MyKad who is eligible for BUDI95 and is the actual user of the designated diesel vehicle.
Once approved, the recipient will receive their own monthly eligibility and can use their MyKad to purchase subsidised diesel according to the vehicle assigned to them.
The transfer does not involve or require a change in vehicle ownership. This means the arrangement can also cover situations where the person using and paying for a vehicle is not its registered owner, such as under a sambung bayar arrangement.
Multiple Diesel Vehicle Owners Can Transfer Up To Three
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0563c5228099d3ee9a4c9438cb0a33246f0ebebcac31eda8ca6b69c4097175db" />
The government has also introduced greater flexibility for registered owners with more than one private diesel vehicle. Owners can transfer the monthly BUDI Diesel eligibility of their vehicles to up to three other individuals, subject to the total number of registered diesel vehicles they own.
For example, someone with four private diesel vehicles could transfer the eligibility of three vehicles to their actual users, such as a spouse, child or employee. The registered owner will continue to retain the monthly eligibility for any vehicle that has not been transferred.
If the owner transfers the eligibility for all three vehicles covered by the transfer limit, they will only remain eligible for the BUDI95 subsidy. Each approved recipient will receive their own monthly eligibility based on the type of vehicle assigned to them.
Diesel Quota Can Go Up To 400 Litres
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6667efd1dc84b121cc42fdeeb3a5b526d21f0496b32d0fd42a769982586730a5" />
The monthly BUDI Diesel allocation continues to depend on the vehicle type.
The standard allocation is 300 litres of subsidised diesel per month, while eligible diesel-powered pickup trucks and jeeps can receive an additional 100 litres, bringing the total to 400 litres per month.
However, owners of eligible pickup trucks and jeeps must first apply for the additional 100-litre allocation before applying to transfer the vehicle's BUDI Diesel eligibility. The increase to 400 litres was introduced after pickup and jeep owners, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak, continued to raise concerns about the previous limit.
BUDI Diesel Transfer Can Only Be Made Once
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/af530765f66bb20c3132ffc98fb99a9cbee3acb70728e3dc489057b3f479461a" />
There are several restrictions on the new transfer facility.
For each eligible vehicle, the BUDI Diesel entitlement can only be transferred once. After approval, it generally cannot be transferred back to the registered owner or to another person, except under specific circumstances set by the government.
A recipient can also only receive an eligibility transfer from one registered vehicle owner.
Applications remain subject to data verification and the relevant appeal process. Information submitted by the registered owner, recipient and vehicle will be cross-checked against records held by relevant government agencies before approval.
How To Apply For BUDI Diesel Transfer
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fb371f0a86f4e6df1b29daebf97976f74267667b7acf13265f8846866206561f" />
Applications under the new rules can be submitted through the BUDI MADANI portal.
Applicants can also apply physically at Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDN) offices, while assistance and further information are available at nearby petrol stations. To have the transferred eligibility take effect from the first day of the following month, applications must be submitted by the 27th of the current month.
For example, an application submitted by 27 September 2026 can be processed for the recipient to use the eligibility from 1 October 2026, subject to verification and approval.
What Happens To Previous Applications?
BUDI Diesel transfers that were approved before 16 September 2026 remain final.
However, applications that were still pending as of 15 September 2026 will be returned to applicants. Those who still wish to transfer their eligibility must submit a new application under the revised rules.
Owners with multiple diesel vehicles can also submit new applications, subject to the maximum limit of three transfer recipients and the number of registered diesel vehicles they own.
Changes Made After Feedback From Sabah And Sarawak
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e43fb1ac20e9641b9f429ccea0050c38a9d49823b1315dc06f78a2e1c9259264" />
Anwar said the latest changes followed continued concerns raised by diesel vehicle users, ministers and lawmakers, particularly from Sabah and Sarawak.
The Prime Minister said the government had already responded to concerns over diesel quotas by increasing the allocation for eligible pickup trucks and jeeps to up to 400 litres per month. However, further concerns remained over how the subsidy could be used when the registered owner was not the actual driver.
Works Minister Alexander Nanta Linggi also welcomed the latest adjustment, saying the government needs to balance economic management with efforts to ease the financial burden on the public.
He said subsidy reforms can sometimes place additional pressure on people, making it important for the government to consider public concerns when reviewing its policies.
The latest BUDI Diesel changes therefore give eligible vehicle owners greater flexibility, particularly where diesel vehicles are shared among family members, employees or other actual users.
For eligible Malaysians, the key change is that BUDI Diesel subsidy eligibility can now be transferred to the actual user of a vehicle, rather than being restricted to the registered owner's immediate family.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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BUDI Diesel just got more flexible. Eligible vehicle owners can now transfer their subsidy entitlement to non-family users.

4c65da9d654861dc0dbdfdbfbd767e7b1f62783129d5187ee0c67ae6445f141c

BUDI Diesel Eligibility Can Now Be Transferred To Non-Family Users

Malaysian households facing higher electricity bills will receive additional relief after the government raised the monthly electricity consumption threshold for subsidy protection from 600 kilowatt-hours (kWh) to 800 kWh.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that the temporary measure will apply to electricity consumption from September until 31 December 2026.
Under the expanded protection, domestic consumers using up to 800 kWh per month will be exempt from the Automatic Fuel Adjustment (AFA), retail charges and Sales and Service Tax (SST).
The move comes after some households reported unusually high electricity bills, with recent hot weather and haze conditions contributing to increased electricity usage.
Electricity Subsidy Protection Increased By 200 kWh
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fc95581100d39144943df54f35e318dc94c744227caab77b2ce760e43f510e6a" />
Previously, domestic consumers using 600 kWh or less per month were protected from AFA charges, retail charges and the applicable 8% service tax. The new measure increases the threshold by 200 kWh, giving households more room to use electricity before being affected by the charges.
This represents a 33% increase from the previous 600 kWh threshold and could provide some relief to households that have been using more electricity during the recent hot and hazy weather.
Higher temperatures can lead to increased use of air conditioning, fans and other electrical appliances, while haze conditions may encourage people to spend more time indoors.
Anwar said the decision was taken as an immediate measure to address current cost-of-living pressures faced by Malaysians.
Who Qualifies For The Electricity Bill Exemption?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6957dfb9096ff6f93f34b557ca2c0037fb84715699e942753888ad2d46a7df30" />
Under the temporary measure, domestic consumers with monthly electricity consumption of 800 kWh or below will be exempt from:
<ul>
<li>Automatic Fuel Adjustment (AFA)</li>
<li>Retail charges</li>
<li>Sales and Service Tax (SST)</li>
</ul>
The expanded protection applies to electricity consumption from September through 31 December 2026.
This means households that previously exceeded the 600 kWh threshold but remain within 800 kWh can now receive the same protection from these charges during the temporary period.
The government has not indicated that the 800 kWh threshold will become permanent. For now, the measure is scheduled to run until the end of December.
What Is The Automatic Fuel Adjustment (AFA)?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9a978849ffe0e40add6c5f8f1e1699143d071e0908a04b41d5e8d78ddd1221c9" />
The Automatic Fuel Adjustment (AFA) is a monthly mechanism introduced on 1 July 2025 as part of Malaysia's revised electricity tariff structure for Peninsular Malaysia.
It replaced the previous Imbalance Cost Pass-Through (ICPT) mechanism and adjusts electricity charges according to changes in fuel and electricity generation costs, as well as movements in foreign exchange rates.
The mechanism can work in either direction.
When generation costs fall, consumers can receive an AFA rebate. When costs rise, the adjustment can become a surcharge, resulting in higher electricity charges for affected consumers.
AFA rates are reviewed monthly based on the relevant costs.
AFA Has Shifted From Rebates To Surcharges
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0e08f5c6e4182105bde33e2ec024bb73981f40d03bdfb48327dca09abc6ce690" />
The AFA has moved from rebates in late 2025 and early 2026 to surcharges in recent months.
The recorded AFA rates include:
<ul>
<li>October 2025: -6.50 sen/kWh</li>
<li>November 2025: -8.90 sen/kWh</li>
<li>December 2025: -6.42 sen/kWh</li>
<li>January 2026: -4.99 sen/kWh</li>
<li>February 2026: -2.77 sen/kWh</li>
<li>March 2026: -2.15 sen/kWh</li>
<li>April 2026: -0.47 sen/kWh</li>
<li>May 2026: +1.38 sen/kWh</li>
<li>June 2026: +2.59 sen/kWh</li>
<li>July 2026: +3.59 sen/kWh</li>
<li>August 2026: +3.80 sen/kWh</li>
<li>September 2026: +3.67 sen/kWh</li>
</ul>
The September 2026 AFA rate is therefore a 3.67 sen per kWh surcharge.
The increase in generation costs has been linked to fluctuations in global energy markets, including higher fuel costs amid ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting energy supplies.
Why Was The Threshold Increased?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2c7a4dbeec06a5c079a44cc8d379a5e3a9d50f408b073567a60d854fac0fa527" />
The government had previously acknowledged concerns from households whose electricity consumption rose above 600 kWh during the recent period of hot weather and haze.
Crossing the 600 kWh threshold meant these households could become subject to the AFA mechanism, potentially contributing to higher monthly bills.
The latest decision effectively gives households an additional 200 kWh of protected consumption until the end of the year.
Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir also noted that disruptions in global energy supplies could have wider effects beyond petrol, including on natural gas and coal used in electricity generation.
He explained that changes in natural gas prices can take several months to feed through into electricity generation costs and, subsequently, electricity tariffs.
Government To Continue Monitoring Energy Costs
Anwar said the government would continue monitoring global fuel prices and developments in the energy market when considering future electricity tariff decisions.
The government will take into account several factors, including household affordability, the cost of living, electricity supply security and the sustainability of the national energy sector.
He also thanked Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) and the Energy Commission for helping to implement the expanded protection.
The announcement follows a special meeting chaired by Anwar at the Ministry of Finance to discuss the impact of higher electricity bills on households.
For Malaysian households, the immediate takeaway is that the electricity subsidy protection threshold has been raised from 600 kWh to 800 kWh until 31 December 2026. Those using up to 800 kWh a month will be exempt from AFA, retail charges and SST during the temporary period.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Using more electricity lately?  The protection threshold has been raised to 800kWh, with AFA, retail charges and SST exemptions until year-end.

5f11d0fbe8c5094c13f5e033e791de40eda1c584d3c3cd250bdcd03683cec1fb

Electricity Bill Protection Expanded To 800 kWh Until December 2026

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for a special government meeting to examine immediate measures to ease the impact of higher electricity bills, particularly for households whose monthly electricity consumption has exceeded the 600 kilowatt-hours (kWh) threshold.
The meeting will involve the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), the Energy Commission, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) and the Ministry of Finance (MOF).
The announcement came after Anwar returned from official visits to India and the Maldives, with the Prime Minister saying he had taken note of growing public concerns over higher electricity bills in recent weeks.
&ldquo;I have heard the complaints raised, and this matter needs to be given attention and addressed immediately,&rdquo; Anwar said in a statement on 16 September.
Why Are Some Electricity Bills Higher?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/26f29fbf1213e2a66910686cb58eb73a58c6649bb1a3e78d99331cd86f8f3574" />
According to Anwar, the government&rsquo;s targeted electricity subsidy system continues to protect the majority of domestic consumers.
Around 80% of domestic electricity users consuming no more than 600 kWh per month remain protected from rate increases linked to higher fuel costs this year. However, recent haze conditions and hotter weather have contributed to higher electricity consumption among some households.
As households use more electricity, some may cross the 600 kWh monthly threshold. Once they exceed that level, they become subject to the Automatic Fuel Cost Adjustment (AFA) mechanism, which can result in an additional charge when fuel costs are higher.
This means households that normally remain below the 600 kWh threshold could see higher bills if increased use of air conditioning and other electrical appliances pushes their monthly consumption above the limit.
What Is The Automatic Fuel Cost Adjustment?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9a978849ffe0e40add6c5f8f1e1699143d071e0908a04b41d5e8d78ddd1221c9" />
The AFA is a mechanism used to adjust electricity charges based on changes in fuel costs and foreign exchange rates.
TNB has explained that the mechanism works both ways. When fuel costs are lower, consumers can receive a rebate, while higher fuel costs can result in a surcharge. Consumers received AFA rebates for nine consecutive months from August 2025 to April 2026. However, a surcharge has been imposed since May 2026 following an increase in global fuel costs.
For September 2026, the AFA surcharge stands at 3.67 sen per kWh.
TNB has also said that, since the AFA was introduced, consumers have received around RM3.1 billion in rebates, compared with approximately RM800 million in surcharges.
Households Using 600 kWh Or Less Remain Protected
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e7144f60cf55fddc092c8db6e3ada03de4ae03eae784ff5ab53eaaf8c9713f56" />
The 600 kWh threshold is therefore an important figure for households trying to understand recent changes to their electricity bills.
Consumers using 600 kWh or less per month are exempt from AFA charges, whether the mechanism is applying a rebate or a surcharge. They are also exempt from the applicable retail charge and eight per cent service tax under the current arrangement.
TNB has previously stated that consumers in this category pay around 2% to 14% less under the new tariff compared with the previous tariff, depending on their level of electricity consumption. However, once monthly usage exceeds 600 kWh, the household is no longer protected from the AFA mechanism and may be affected by the applicable surcharge.
Government To Consider Immediate Relief Measures
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6b1247d984644d16527f014e03e03d6e0c61381f78bfde39871dc1287fac6a26" />
The special meeting is expected to focus on possible measures to reduce the impact of higher electricity bills on affected households.
The involvement of PETRA, the Energy Commission, TNB and MOF brings together the main agencies responsible for the country's electricity supply, regulation and financial policies. At this stage, the government has not announced a specific form of assistance or relief.
It remains unclear whether any measures will involve changes to the 600 kWh threshold, rebates, adjustments to the AFA mechanism or other forms of assistance for affected households.
The meeting will instead examine what immediate mitigation measures may be appropriate.
Anwar Says Targeted Subsidies Will Continue
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ee6e5714f3dc1d13db6e5272d60db3da5b6711fcde60ffcd79352e9cd25fe03b" />
Anwar reiterated that the government intends to maintain its targeted subsidy approach, which is designed to protect the majority of domestic consumers while ensuring electricity subsidies are directed towards those who need them.
He also said the government would continue to ensure that targeted subsidy measures are implemented fairly and reasonably, with the interests and wellbeing of Malaysians remaining a priority.
For households facing higher TNB electricity bills, the key figure to watch remains the 600 kWh monthly threshold.
While households using 600 kWh or less continue to be protected from AFA charges, those exceeding the threshold may face additional costs when the AFA rate is set as a surcharge.
With hotter weather and haze contributing to increased electricity use, the government&rsquo;s special meeting is expected to provide further clarity on whether any immediate relief will be introduced for affected households.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Higher electricity bills have raised concerns among Malaysians, prompting Anwar to call a special meeting to discuss immediate relief measures.

0c833de6cdfe4c2d19b41e50304559c5d5a483b032d80a5aa2ebf6a248d9de13

Anwar Calls Special Meeting To Address Higher Electricity Bills Amid Heat And Haze

A cryptocurrency hack has taken an unusual turn after an attacker stole around 4,000 Bitcoin worth approximately US$320 million from the Liquid Network, only to return most of the funds after the vulnerability behind the incident was patched.
The attacker, whose identity remains unknown, has been described by Liquid Network as a &ldquo;purported white-hat hacker&rdquo; &mdash; an ethical hacker who exploits security vulnerabilities to expose weaknesses rather than simply taking funds for personal gain.
While around 85% of the stolen Bitcoin has now been returned, roughly 598 BTC, worth about US$47 million, remains outstanding. The incident has also forced Liquid Network to pause activity while further security measures are put in place.
What Is Liquid Network?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9946993bb795285f9e9d336b1165664ebe7e79fd0112dc1d062f186edef2856f" />
Liquid Network is a Bitcoin sidechain developed by Blockstream and launched in 2018. It was designed to make Bitcoin transactions faster and more efficient, particularly for cryptocurrency exchanges and financial institutions that need to settle trades quickly.
The main Bitcoin blockchain can take time to confirm transactions, especially when the network is busy. Liquid works differently by allowing users to move Bitcoin into the network and receive an equivalent amount of Liquid Bitcoin (L-BTC), which can then be transferred more quickly.
The network is managed by the Liquid Federation, a group of more than 80 companies including cryptocurrency exchanges, infrastructure providers and other digital-asset businesses. Around 15 federation members operate the network&rsquo;s functionary nodes that play a key role in processing transactions.
How Did The Bitcoin Hack Happen?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e66b57c5de0ce94ec6b4360f9fc2277e91534d4df7557c282c4fba34f4e39ff2" />
The incident was not the result of a stolen password or compromised private key.
Instead, the attacker exploited a software vulnerability involving Elements, the open-source technology underpinning Liquid Network.
According to reports, the vulnerability allowed the attacker to generate around 4,000 L-BTC without first depositing the equivalent amount of real Bitcoin. The attacker then moved the newly created tokens through SideSwap, a legitimate platform used to convert L-BTC back into Bitcoin.
SideSwap processed the transaction as valid because it could not distinguish the artificially created L-BTC from legitimate tokens. The Liquid Federation subsequently released nearly 4,000 real BTC to the attacker.
Liquid said the transaction was authorised through its peg-out system and that the relevant cryptographic key itself had not been compromised. Other digital assets on the Liquid sidechain were not affected.
The Hacker Says They Are A &lsquo;White Hat&rsquo;
The story became even more unusual when the attacker began communicating with Liquid and Blockstream through messages recorded on the Bitcoin blockchain. The hacker reportedly told the network&rsquo;s maintainers to fix the vulnerability first and patch every affected node, promising to return the Bitcoin once the system had been secured.
That led to the attacker being described as a possible white-hat hacker. In cybersecurity, white-hat hackers may deliberately exploit vulnerabilities to demonstrate that a system can be breached, sometimes returning stolen assets after a fix or receiving a bounty for identifying the flaw.
However, the label remains unconfirmed, and the hacker&rsquo;s identity and motivations have not been established.
Around 3,400 Bitcoin Returned
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Update: 3,400 BTC of the roughly 4,000 BTC withdrawn on September 6 has been returned to the <a href="https://x.com/Liquid_BTC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Liquid_BTC</a> Federation wallet. The return followed confirmation from <a href="https://x.com/Blockstream?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Blockstream</a> that the affected bridge nodes have been patched. Approximately 598 BTC remains outstanding, and&hellip;
&mdash; Samson Mow (@Excellion) <a href="https://x.com/Excellion/status/2097060644977877433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2026</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The unusual promise was partially fulfilled after Blockstream said the affected bridge nodes had been patched.
Following confirmation of the fix, the attacker returned approximately 3,400 BTC to the Liquid Federation&rsquo;s wallet, leaving about 598.5 BTC, worth roughly US$47 million, still in the attacker&rsquo;s possession. Despite the return of most of the funds, Liquid Network has not immediately resumed normal activity.
The network remains paused while Blockstream and Federation members carry out additional fixes, address the wider security implications and prepare for a safer restart. Users have also been warned not to send Bitcoin to Liquid peg-in addresses until the network confirms that operations have resumed.
One Of The Biggest Crypto Heists Of 2026
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/425ad94fb3bf6902c78749214836873c531d689b69f53a2018cc6c28845eda22" />
The scale of the incident makes it one of the largest cryptocurrency thefts reported this year.
The attack also highlights a wider cybersecurity problem affecting the digital-asset industry. Blockchain security firm PeckShield recorded 50 major crypto hacks in August 2026, with total losses of around US$136.3 million. That was actually lower than July&rsquo;s losses despite the number of attacks increasing by 67%.
Liquid&rsquo;s case is particularly notable because the attackers did not simply gain access to a wallet and transfer existing funds. Instead, the vulnerability allowed fraudulent L-BTC to be generated and ultimately exchanged for genuine Bitcoin held in reserve.
Crypto Security Faces Another Major Test
The Liquid Network incident comes after several other high-profile cryptocurrency security breaches this year.
A separate vulnerability involving Coldcard hardware wallets led to hundreds of Bitcoin being drained from affected devices, while a South Korean government agency was also embarrassed after accidentally revealing a cryptocurrency wallet recovery phrase in a public photograph. The latter incident resulted in digital assets worth millions of dollars being moved from the wallet.
Together, these incidents show that cryptocurrency security risks can come from many different points &mdash; including software vulnerabilities, transaction infrastructure and even basic operational mistakes.
For Liquid Network, the immediate priority is now recovering the remaining funds and ensuring that the vulnerability cannot be exploited again.
What started as a US$320 million Bitcoin heist has therefore become one of the stranger crypto security stories of 2026: an attacker drained almost the entire reserve, demanded that the vulnerability be fixed, and then returned most of the stolen Bitcoin.
The twist may sound almost too convenient, but the remaining US$47 million serves as a reminder that, white hat or not, the incident is far from completely resolved.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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White hat or not, hacking into systems and taking funds isn’t something to copy. Always protect, report vulnerabilities and stay on the right side of the law.

301378b26d9450705ec699cc45a860d4b026803df6283d174e90233ba16f1d1d

Hacker Steals Around US$320 Million In Bitcoin Then Returns Most Of It

Malaysians who rely heavily on their vehicles have some good news as the government has restored the monthly BUDI95 subsidised RON95 quota to 300 litres, effective 1 September 2026.
The increase reverses the temporary reduction from 300 litres to 200 litres introduced in April. At the same time, eligible private diesel-powered pick-up and jeep owners can now receive up to 400 litres of subsidised diesel per month.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the changes during his National Day address on 30 August, saying the government was acting ahead of Budget 2027 because cost-of-living pressures could not wait until October. The Finance Ministry subsequently confirmed that the revised quotas would be implemented automatically for eligible existing recipients.
BUDI95 Quota Returns To 300 Litres
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1c0a538b35a9c667136fb2958d7b5d68221ef42fc905ef0df110ceeac0f0d608" />
Under BUDI MADANI RON95 (BUDI95), eligible Malaysians can purchase subsidised RON95 petrol at RM1.99 per litre.
From 1 September, the basic monthly eligibility limit has increased from 200 litres to 300 litres, essentially restoring the quota that was in place when BUDI95 was first introduced in September 2025.
The government said around 16 million Malaysians benefit from subsidised RON95 under the programme. The adjustment is automatic for existing eligible BUDI95 recipients, meaning they do not need to submit a new application simply because the quota has increased.
The original reduction to 200 litres took effect on 1 April 2026 as the government responded to higher global crude oil prices and increased subsidy costs.
Why Was The Quota Reduced In The First Place?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9e79cc3c7237a8dbc6d29e0fa729df2fc45eea9b03966e9e578af01868977359" />
The 200-litre limit was introduced as a temporary measure amid significant pressure on the government's fuel subsidy bill.
At the time, the government said the adjustment was necessary as international oil prices rose sharply, increasing the cost of maintaining subsidised fuel. However, the lower quota also prompted complaints from some motorists, particularly those who travel long distances for work, family commitments or business.
With the latest adjustment, the government says it has taken into account the needs of Malaysians who rely heavily on their vehicles, including those travelling long distances and small traders who depend on vehicles for their livelihoods.
The Finance Ministry also said the restoration was made possible by better fuel supply management, stronger enforcement, improved economic performance and the government's current financial capacity.
BUDI Diesel Quota Can Go Up To 400 Litres
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/886a2038177948d8613242bea037cb47f3a320f1e8a91f47fb76d2fc1d4f229f" />
There is also an increase for eligible diesel vehicle owners.
The basic BUDI Diesel monthly entitlement has been restored to 300 litres, with subsidised diesel remaining at RM2.10 per litre.
Eligible owners of private diesel-powered pick-up trucks and jeeps can apply for an additional 100 litres, bringing their total monthly entitlement to up to 400 litres.
More than half a million eligible diesel vehicle owners can apply for the additional allocation.
Those who were already approved for the extra 100 litres do not need to apply again, as their entitlement will be automatically adjusted to 400 litres from 1 September. Those who have not applied can submit their application through the BUDI MADANI portal.
No Need To Reapply For The Basic Increase
For existing BUDI95 and BUDI Diesel recipients, the return to the higher basic quota is automatic, subject to their existing eligibility.
This means eligible BUDI95 users will receive the revised 300-litre monthly limit, while eligible BUDI Diesel recipients will receive the applicable revised allocation without having to restart the application process.
For pick-up and jeep owners seeking the additional 100 litres under BUDI Diesel, a separate application is still required unless they have already received approval previously.
Government Says Subsidies Must Still Be Protected From Misuse
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fcb9910f3e2295225b40eb53ad336fa9cd144b1d06d15d597ccdc14e2ad578fc" />
Despite increasing the quotas, the government said it would continue strengthening measures to prevent subsidy leakage, smuggling and misuse.
BUDI95 was originally designed as a targeted fuel subsidy system, with eligibility tied to Malaysian citizenship and driving licence information.
When the programme was launched, the government said the 300-litre ceiling was already sufficient for the overwhelming majority of private motorists, based on national vehicle usage data.
The latest restoration therefore does not represent a return to an unrestricted blanket petrol subsidy.
What Malaysians Need To Know
For eligible motorists, the changes from 1 September 2026 are straightforward:
BUDI95: Up to 300 litres of subsidised RON95 per month at RM1.99 per litre.
BUDI Diesel: Up to 300 litres per month at RM2.10 per litre for eligible recipients.
Private diesel pick-up and jeep owners: Up to 400 litres per month with the additional 100-litre allocation, subject to eligibility and application requirements.
Anwar has positioned the move as an immediate measure to help ease cost-of-living pressures before Budget 2027, which is due to be tabled in October.
For millions of Malaysians, the biggest takeaway is simple: the 200-litre BUDI95 limit is gone, and the monthly subsidised petrol quota is back to 300 litres from 1 September.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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BUDI95 and BUDI Diesel quotas are back up from September, giving eligible Malaysians higher monthly fuel limits.

0ef6115467d6dda8329a9a784d59c490cbc358aa1f6cf8bd70b1345c79d476c7

BUDI95 Quota Restored To 300 Litres, BUDI Diesel Raised To 400 Litres From September

Malaysia is exploring ways to reform its tax system by studying whether selected Goods and Services Tax (GST) mechanisms could be incorporated into the existing Sales and Services Tax (SST).
Prime Minister and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the aim is to create a more progressive and efficient tax system, but stressed that the government is not looking to simply reinstate the previous 6% GST.
The Finance Ministry has been instructed to study the proposal before presenting its findings to the Cabinet.
Hybrid GST-SST Plan Still In Early Stages
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d11ada6b71d69ab81631de111886796bf46aa72ea8495d6ba75a3418144d95b2" />
Government spokesman Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan has been given time to prepare a report on the proposed model.
The study will consider Malaysia's experience with both GST and SST, including weaknesses in the current system and problems encountered during the previous GST era.
Fahmi said there is currently no confirmed timeline for the study, including whether any changes could be included in Budget 2027.
For now, the move does not represent a return of GST. The government is only studying whether certain GST features could improve the existing SST framework.
What Could A Hybrid GST-SST System Include?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/72dd1d5985ea19cda8e9901436645f1e7e01d3457b74b2a9c15a7acc6be9a94b" />
Anwar has stressed that SST would remain the foundation of Malaysia's tax system.
One option highlighted by tax experts is an Input Tax Credit (ITC) mechanism, which could allow eligible businesses to recover certain taxes paid on their inputs.
Under the current SST system, businesses can sometimes face tax cascading, where taxes become embedded in the cost of goods and services and are effectively taxed again further along the supply chain.
A targeted ITC system could reduce this problem without requiring Malaysia to return to the previous GST model.
Experts have also suggested greater use of digital tax administration and invoice-based reporting to strengthen tax collection and reduce revenue leakages.
Why Not Simply Bring Back GST?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/574e8622aa9ad883597ad55c57c83e580748c38081cf500d606b8a8f00c8b77e" />
Anwar has acknowledged that GST is generally considered an efficient and transparent method of tax collection, but remains concerned about its broad-based nature.
He has said GST would place a wider tax burden on Malaysians, including those already facing cost-of-living pressures.
&ldquo;GST is a broad-based tax that taxes everyone. I do not agree with that.&rdquo;
The government is therefore considering whether selected GST mechanisms can be introduced without creating another broad-based consumption tax.
Malaysia&rsquo;s Previous GST Experience
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4725334439a6321198ecaa67beca1d3fff2177c634ea6b2b2d758a8a1efe440f" />
Malaysia introduced GST in April 2015 at a rate of 6%.
The multi-stage consumption tax faced widespread public criticism, particularly over concerns about its impact on living costs. Businesses also raised concerns over delayed tax refunds, which could affect cash flow.
GST was subsequently suspended and zero-rated in June 2018 before being abolished and replaced by SST in September 2018.
These experiences are expected to form part of the Finance Ministry's assessment as it considers any new tax structure.
Businesses Warn Against Higher Compliance Costs
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/893b81326aee95189298d472f860fcfb91738ef1383321960b33c515e904cd60" />
While tax experts have highlighted the potential benefits of an ITC mechanism, business groups have urged the government to keep any new system simple.
KPMG Malaysia head of tax Soh Lian Seng said a targeted credit mechanism could reduce inefficiencies caused by tax cascading, while digital reporting could improve administration.
However, SME Association of Malaysia president Chin Chee Seong warned that a complicated system could increase business costs, which may ultimately be passed on to consumers.
SAMENTA president Datuk William Ng similarly pointed to delayed ITC refunds during the previous GST era as a major concern.
He said businesses had already invested in systems for GST, SST and e-invoicing, and should not be forced to absorb another round of software, training and compliance costs.
What Could The New Model Look Like?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/94c6fcd5b80a69be43550f9fd686c4c4fcd2b8b7d9a015cc3a6f024b3bfada50" />
Experts have suggested several possible approaches.
One option would be to have GST as a broader consumption tax while retaining SST or other targeted taxes for selected goods and services.
Another could involve a GST-style system with zero-rated or exempt sectors, alongside additional taxes on selected products such as luxury goods, tobacco and other items. Tax expert Harvindar Singh said Malaysia could also study international examples such as India and Canada, where broader consumption taxes operate alongside more targeted taxation.
However, he warned that simply placing GST on top of the existing SST could create unnecessary complexity and further tax-on-tax effects.
Concerns Over Cost Of Living
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6440fe352f04ab2863e50260d8ea8149e87ef661fa5061dec9f3023eefceb8fe" />
Beyond revenue collection, the biggest concern is how any tax reform would affect ordinary Malaysians.
Critics have called for the government to provide clear details on tax rates, which goods and services would be affected, registration thresholds and how input tax credits would work.
There have also been calls for a proper impact study and assessment of compliance costs before any major changes are introduced.
The concern is that higher costs for businesses could eventually be passed on to consumers through higher prices.
Is Malaysia Bringing Back GST?
Not at this stage.
The government has not announced plans to restore the previous 6% GST.
Instead, the Finance Ministry is studying whether selected GST features can be incorporated into the current SST system to make tax collection more efficient while limiting the impact on households.
The eventual outcome could be a modified SST system, a hybrid model or no major change at all.
With Budget 2027 approaching, Malaysia's proposed tax reform is likely to remain closely watched as the government weighs its need for stronger revenue against the pressure of rising living costs.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Anwar Ibrahim says the government wants to build a more efficient tax system without bringing back the previous 6% GST.

91052f4d81a941c20cd03f1128216d05d8478a8a34ce91001dfe4621fb5f56f8

Malaysia Is Exploring A Hybrid GST-SST Tax System: Here’s What It Could Mean

TikTok could be taking its financial services push a step further by allowing users to send money directly through direct messages, potentially turning private chats into another way to make payments.
References to the feature were reportedly discovered in the code of TikTok&rsquo;s US iPhone app. However, TikTok has stressed that the feature is not currently being tested in any market, meaning it remains an early-stage project and may never be released.
How Would TikTok Payments Through DMs Work?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ef1767c296d36836de31ecfde0936a686e0925a0f670d847742ca041e69a06f7" />
According to reports, the proposed feature would allow users to send payments directly inside an existing TikTok conversation.
The recipient could reportedly &ldquo;tap to accept&rdquo; the incoming payment before a set expiry date, while the sender would receive updates on the transaction through push notifications or their TikTok inbox. There also appear to be references to users being able to attach a message or note to a payment, similar to the way users can add captions to transactions on services such as Venmo.
The idea would make sending money feel much like sending a normal TikTok message, potentially removing the need to switch to a separate banking or payment application. For example, users could potentially send money to friends after discussing a purchase, pay someone they met through the platform or transfer money to a creator &mdash; all without leaving TikTok.
TikTok Pay Could Power The Feature
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b4f1eb2e394e4c8354c51f226e3d4b8d89f80a2c8404ddd5281aab8e6de31ce8" />
The reported peer-to-peer payment system could be powered by TikTok Pay, ByteDance&rsquo;s existing payment service.
TikTok Pay is currently available in Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, where it is used for transactions through TikTok Shop. A peer-to-peer payment feature would represent a significant expansion of TikTok Pay, moving it beyond payments to merchants and towards direct transfers between individual users.
ByteDance has already explored similar ideas in China. Its Chinese platform, Douyin, has supported peer-to-peer payments through Douyin Pay, allowing users to make purchases, pay during livestream shopping and send tips.
TikTok Is Moving Further Into Financial Services
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b7cf42b36c5f639b21ec516dee5766cb20f4434451b3c1c0333330bd900f5f8f" />
The reported feature fits into TikTok parent company ByteDance&rsquo;s wider push into financial technology and social commerce.
TikTok is no longer simply a platform for short-form videos. Users can already shop through TikTok Shop, purchase digital coins, send virtual gifts to creators and interact with businesses directly through the app. A direct payment system could allow TikTok to keep even more of those transactions within its own ecosystem.
According to Sensor Tower data cited in reports, consumers worldwide have spent more than US$2.9 billion (around RM12.3 billion) on TikTok so far this year. The platform has also reportedly remained the world's leading app for in-app purchase revenue since 2022.
With such a large amount of spending already taking place on TikTok, adding peer-to-peer payments could provide another way for the company to connect its social, entertainment and commerce services.
Could TikTok Challenge Venmo And Other Payment Apps?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/37b6c11608191448f0b7bd8ec5f443d2aa2694ca76e6b28dd5fdfa0c1c1a5b96" />
A built-in payment feature could put TikTok into more direct competition with established services such as Venmo and Zelle in the US.
However, TikTok would have one major advantage: it already has a huge audience. Instead of convincing users to download another financial app, TikTok could place payment functionality directly into an application they already use to communicate, watch content and shop.
This could be particularly useful for creators and sellers. Users already share payment details such as Venmo or Cash App usernames through TikTok profiles, so an integrated system could potentially eliminate the need to move transactions elsewhere.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1727d7a4a4cd4635abb9c250e3aafc82d55192e39af891dd9eec446a4b87a48e" />
Other social platforms are heading in a similar direction. X has been expanding its X Money service, while Facebook Messenger has offered peer-to-peer payments in the US for years.
The bigger trend appears to be social media companies attempting to evolve into &ldquo;everything apps&rdquo;, where users can communicate, shop and manage financial transactions in one place.
But There Are Privacy And Scam Concerns
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/898c09abb7bec5e58afbefee7c2eec752ed63c36d4d61b493a76f2df9e5625c5" />
Making payments as easy as sending a message could certainly be convenient, but it could also create new challenges.
A payment request appearing inside a familiar conversation could potentially make scams and fraudulent transactions harder for users to spot. Criminals could use hacked accounts, fake profiles or convincing messages to pressure people into sending money.
There are also concerns about younger users. TikTok has a huge teenage and young adult audience, and making payments almost frictionless could potentially encourage impulsive spending or make financial scams easier to execute.
TikTok's existing financial tools have also faced legal scrutiny in the US, with some lawsuits involving allegations related to financial and child exploitation, money transmission laws and money laundering. These cases concern existing features and should not be treated as evidence of problems with a peer-to-peer payment system that does not yet exist.
No Launch Date Has Been Confirmed
For now, TikTok's reported peer-to-peer payment feature should be viewed as a development project rather than an upcoming confirmed feature.
The discovery of code shows that ByteDance is exploring the possibility, but TikTok has said it is not currently being tested in any market.
There are also no confirmed details on potential transaction limits, fees, eligibility requirements, banking partners or whether the feature would launch in Malaysia, the US or other markets.
Still, the idea highlights how TikTok is evolving beyond social media and into commerce and financial services.
For Malaysian users, the more immediate takeaway is that TikTok Pay already exists locally through TikTok Shop. Whether Malaysians will eventually be able to send money to friends simply by opening a TikTok DM, however, remains to be seen.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Your TikTok DMs could become payment channels — but at what privacy cost? 

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