Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

tech

Apple

price hike

pre order

apple watch

upgrades

airpods

iPhone 18

surprise and shine

Apple has officially wrapped up its &ldquo;Surprise and shine&rdquo; launch event, and it was certainly a big one. The company unveiled its latest iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, introduced the long-rumoured iPhone Duo as its first-ever foldable iPhone, and refreshed its wearables and audio lineup with the Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4 and AirPods 5.
For Malaysian Apple fans, there is plenty to look forward to, with the new iPhone 18 Pro arriving later this month and the iPhone Duo following in October. Apple has also introduced its new A20 Pro chip, making performance and on-device AI a major focus across the new generation.
iPhone 18 Pro And iPhone 18 Pro Max
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/993a309f40f5acf061307d05c7a5c9981e93a082f865a4f81c6deafb09d58594" />
The headline smartphone launch is the new iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, which retain the familiar Pro design but bring significant upgrades under the hood and to the camera system.
The iPhone 18 Pro comes with a 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display, while the Pro Max gets a larger 6.9-inch version. Both feature a redesigned Dynamic Island that takes up less space while being able to display up to three Live Activities simultaneously.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/239abf6c514e2beca11d4d6b6bb80b1f52fcc40293448031a95d869a33d3170d" />
In Malaysia, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are available with up to 2TB of storage.
iPhone 18 Pro Malaysia pricing:
<ul>
<li>256GB &mdash; RM5,499</li>
<li>512GB &mdash; RM6,499</li>
<li>1TB &mdash; RM8,499</li>
<li>2TB &mdash; RM11,499</li>
</ul>
iPhone 18 Pro Max Malaysia pricing:
<ul>
<li>256GB &mdash; RM5,999</li>
<li>512GB &mdash; RM6,999</li>
<li>1TB &mdash; RM8,999</li>
<li>2TB &mdash; RM11,999</li>
</ul>
Pre-orders open at 8pm on 12 September 2026, with both models officially available in Malaysia from 18 September 2026.
The biggest upgrade is arguably the camera system. Apple has introduced its first variable aperture system on an iPhone, allowing the 48MP Fusion Main camera to switch between f/1.48 and f/4 depending on lighting conditions and the desired depth of field.
The camera system also gains new Pro controls, allowing users to manually adjust settings such as aperture, shutter speed and white balance. Apple is also introducing Reference Image, which creates an unalterable reference version of a photograph to help determine whether edits have been made.
A20 Pro Brings More Power And Better Cooling
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d02c3c3f2c58773d771c88ab0ffccade092d0679e881dc4ed48c588fcd6e0393" />
Both iPhone 18 Pro models are powered by Apple's new A20 Pro, which is built using a 2-nanometre process.
The chip features a six-core CPU, seven-core GPU and Dual 16-core Neural Engine. Apple says the GPU is up to 40 percent faster than the A19 Pro, while memory bandwidth has increased by 50 percent. The Neural Engine also receives a major boost for on-device AI and computational photography.
Apple has paired the chip with a new vapour chamber that has three times the surface area of the previous generation, helping the phone maintain higher performance during demanding tasks such as gaming and AI workloads.
Battery life has also improved, with the Malaysian eSIM-only models rated for up to 34 hours of video playback on iPhone 18 Pro and 43 hours on iPhone 18 Pro Max. The iPhone 18 Pro can reach 50 percent charge in around 15 minutes with compatible fast-charging hardware.
Meet The iPhone Duo, Apple's First Foldable
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/29b93bc838f32762af63b2fea799a613c7258578e2562cc11283c5c366bdddc0" />
The biggest surprise of the night was undoubtedly the iPhone Duo, Apple's first foldable iPhone.
Rather than using a narrow cover screen, Apple has opted for a passport-like design featuring a 5.4-inch outer display that unfolds into a huge 7.6-inch Super Retina XDR display. Both screens share the same aspect ratio, allowing content to transition between them more naturally. The inner display also gets a nano-texture finish designed to reduce glare and make the crease less noticeable.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/33eaba836fb712a28be00f044e4fca16fb85f7bf22b39b954a38638a0d63e77e" />
The iPhone Duo uses a Grade 5 titanium frame, a precision hinge containing more than 100 components and Ceramic Shield protection. It is also rated IP68 for splash, water and dust resistance.
Apple has made some interesting choices with the foldable. Touch ID returns, integrated into the side button, while the device is also eSIM-only with no physical SIM card slot.
The larger display enables new multitasking features, including Split View, allowing two apps &mdash; or even two instances of the same app &mdash; to run side by side.
The iPhone Duo also supports Apple Pencil with USB-C later this year, with the stylus working across both the inner and outer displays.
iPhone Duo Malaysia Price And Availability
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d375d084c8fb8bfca819239b2a1f439c65a39da86a9e02d46c8ee70d1607ad94" />
The iPhone Duo starts from RM9,499 for the 256GB model in Malaysia, making it one of Apple&rsquo;s most expensive iPhones to date.
iPhone Duo Malaysia pricing:
<ul>
<li>256GB &mdash; RM9,499</li>
<li>512GB &mdash; RM10,499</li>
<li>1TB &mdash; RM12,499</li>
<li>2TB &mdash; RM15,499</li>
</ul>
The foldable comes in Star White and Night Sky, with Malaysian pre-orders opening at 8pm on 16 October 2026. It will officially go on sale on 23 October 2026.
On the camera front, the iPhone Duo features a dual 48MP Fusion camera system, consisting of a Main and Ultra Wide camera. There is no dedicated telephoto lens, although the main camera can provide an optical-quality 2x zoom.
Apple has also added several camera features designed around the foldable form factor, including Duo Preview, Smart Take and Kid Cue. The rear cameras can be used to take higher-resolution selfies while displaying a live preview on the outer display.
For video recording, the iPhone Duo supports up to 4K at 120fps with Dolby Vision, giving users plenty of flexibility for capturing high-quality footage.
AirPods 5 And New Apple Watches
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/984c6ac06d7c2d13f76d903c5739a5edd2b5d440fbb0f0f4d62084987e95f331" />
Apple also refreshed its accessories lineup with the new AirPods 5, which now bring Active Noise Cancellation to both models.
Apple says the new earbuds offer up to 1.5 times more ANC than the previous AirPods 4 with ANC, along with redesigned acoustic architecture and improved Adaptive EQ. They also support features such as Transparency mode, Conversation Awareness and Live Translation when paired with a compatible iPhone.
AirPods 5 Malaysia pricing:
<ul>
<li>AirPods 5 &mdash; RM599</li>
<li>AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case &mdash; RM699</li>
</ul>
Pre-orders begin on 11 September, with both models available from 18 September 2026.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/747b6112ee7db4f095bd0b5e469f7d95d6dde598c2cb7c5f6faa6d7e2406ad18" />
Meanwhile, the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 introduce Apple&rsquo;s new Health Sensing System and S11 chip. The upgrades include more frequent heart-rate and HRV measurements, as well as a new Readiness score that analyses activity, training load, vitals and sleep to provide a daily 0&ndash;10 rating.
Apple Watch Malaysia pricing:
<ul>
<li>Apple Watch Series 12 Aluminium &mdash; from RM1,799</li>
<li>Apple Watch Series 12 Titanium &mdash; from RM3,299</li>
<li>Apple Watch Series 12 Ceramic &mdash; from RM4,049</li>
<li>Apple Watch Ultra 4 &mdash; from RM3,699</li>
</ul>
The Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 will also open for pre-orders on 11 September, before going on sale on 18 September 2026.
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 offers up to 50 hours of battery life, or up to 84 hours in Low Power Mode, making it the more endurance-focused option for users who spend more time tracking workouts and outdoor activities.
Apple Also Raises Prices On Existing iPhones
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bdec92812986147a70a0556d4d72454d7e81921486a8be009458c87d57891d3e" />
Interestingly, Apple has also quietly increased the Malaysian prices of several existing iPhone models following the launch of its new devices.
The latest prices for the iPhone Air, iPhone 17 and iPhone 17e are:
iPhone Air
<ul>
<li>256GB &mdash; RM5,299, up from RM4,999 (+RM300)</li>
<li>512GB &mdash; RM6,299, up from RM5,999 (+RM300)</li>
<li>1TB &mdash; RM8,299, up from RM6,999 (+RM1,300)</li>
</ul>
iPhone 17
<ul>
<li>256GB &mdash; RM4,299, up from RM3,999 (+RM300)</li>
<li>512GB &mdash; RM5,299, up from RM4,999 (+RM300)</li>
</ul>
iPhone 17e
<ul>
<li>256GB &mdash; RM3,299, up from RM2,999 (+RM300)</li>
<li>512GB &mdash; RM4,299, up from RM3,999 (+RM300)</li>
</ul>
Despite the price increases affecting its existing models, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max retain their starting prices from the previous generation at RM5,499 and RM5,999 respectively. However, the higher 1TB and 2TB configurations are more expensive than their predecessors.
With a first-ever foldable, a major camera overhaul, the new A20 Pro chip and refreshed wearables and earbuds, Apple&rsquo;s 2026 &ldquo;Surprise and shine&rdquo; event has delivered one of its biggest product refreshes in years.
For Malaysian users, the key dates to remember are 18 September for the iPhone 18 Pro, AirPods 5 and Apple Watch lineup, followed by 23 October for the iPhone Duo.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Apple has a whole new lineup coming, from the iPhone 18 Pro to the first iPhone Duo. But if you’re eyeing the iPhone 17, there’s a catch — prices have gone up.

3711b633aae24ad26ad87423a7f61c164664f0a439f037296757a3d3116b8939

Apple Surprise And Shine 2026: iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone Duo, AirPods 5 And Apple Watch Series 12 Launched

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AXE MLBB

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BIllie Eilish UMMY

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Coke Fifa

For Malaysian gamers, parents and the wider gaming industry, some changes could be coming to how online games handle loot boxes, gacha mechanics, in-game purchases and child safety.
The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (CMCF) has launched a 45-day nationwide public consultation on a proposed Gaming Sub-Code, which aims to establish clearer standards for game developers, publishers, distributors, platforms and other gaming service providers whose products are accessible in Malaysia.
The consultation is open until 24 October 2026, with the public invited to review the draft and provide feedback before the proposed standards are finalised.
What Is The Proposed Gaming Sub-Code?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/075afeb129ca34f3be9bd701049cb20e991346e447796dba68796ffd8645135b" />
The proposed Gaming Sub-Code is intended to provide clearer expectations for the rapidly evolving gaming sector, particularly as modern games increasingly combine entertainment, social interaction and digital spending in one environment.
The draft covers several areas, including:
<ul>
<li>Age classification and age assurance</li>
<li>Parental controls and safety features</li>
<li>In-game purchases and virtual currencies</li>
<li>Loot boxes and gacha mechanics</li>
<li>User-generated content</li>
<li>Reporting and moderation</li>
<li>Bullying and harassment</li>
<li>Safeguards for younger esports participants</li>
</ul>
CMCF said the need for clearer standards comes from the growing range of activities taking place inside games, where a child can potentially spend real money, interact with strangers and compete with players from around the world without ever leaving the game.
Loot Boxes And Gacha Face Greater Scrutiny
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7f45ba462abc9396b9d3edec032550ad865dc52058049e405a04a4374ab5df24" />
One of the biggest areas covered by the proposal is in-game spending, including virtual currencies, loot boxes and gacha systems.
These mechanics can require players to exchange real money for virtual currency before using it to purchase items or open randomised rewards. Depending on the game, players may receive characters, weapons, skins, upgrades or other virtual items.
The proposed standards would look at how these systems are presented to users, including whether the probabilities behind loot boxes and gacha draws are made clearer.
This is particularly relevant for younger players, who may understand how to play a game without necessarily understanding how its spending systems work or how quickly small purchases can add up.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ac99e59c667ff19fb569c1f034a4b60a72447529de95a18775547855c698a182" />
Esports educator and industry practitioner Andrew Cheong, also known as <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SirCloudMY/">Sir Cloud</a>, said young gamers may understand games better than their parents but still lack a full understanding of the spending mechanics involved.
Clearer information around virtual currencies and randomised rewards could therefore help both players and parents make more informed decisions.
Stronger Protection For Children And Young Players
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/70bb3f2544b8a15ca50b380ea3b2dcb7d05f9efe4a5d6311f4d5d8bef8aa944e" />
Child safety is another major focus of the proposed Gaming Sub-Code.
The draft considers how a player's age could affect their gaming experience, as well as whether parental controls and other safety tools are sufficiently accessible and easy to use.
It also covers online interactions, including cyberbullying, harassment and user-generated content, alongside clearer approaches to reporting and moderation.
The proposal extends beyond casual gaming, with safeguards also being considered for younger players taking part in Malaysia's rapidly growing esports scene.
Ahmed Faris Amir, CEO of Impact Integrated, said introducing clearer safeguards while the sector is still developing could help prevent poor practices from becoming established.
Major Gaming Companies Are Involved
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f3735cd3311e77058f34b0fa713ae89fddd2dcfc96e256e0a5ceaf371af34dd0" />
The proposed standards were developed with input from a working group made up of gaming companies, technology firms, esports representatives, academics, civil society organisations and child-safety advocates.
Participants included representatives connected to major gaming ecosystems such as Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, PUBG Mobile, Honor of Kings, Roblox, Xbox, PlayStation, Google Play Store and Minecraft, alongside Malaysian developers and other industry stakeholders.
Child-safety organisations, including the Office of the Children's Commissioner, SUHAKAM and Protect and Save the Children, were also involved.
CMCF chairman Datuk Rafiq Razali said the involvement of the wider industry was important because effective standards need to reflect how people actually play, spend and interact within games.
Moonton Games representative Jeffery Chan similarly said player safety measures work best when they take into account how gaming communities actually use and engage with their platforms.
Why Is Malaysia Looking At Gaming Rules Now?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/57f3c8c529ad40d8b8010b87862ef1ed7b764255d082154ef4d4b5c39fc20590" />
Gaming has changed significantly from the days when players simply bought a game and played it offline.
Today, many games operate as ongoing online platforms where entertainment, social interaction, virtual currencies, subscriptions, competitive play and digital purchases all exist within the same ecosystem. That has created new challenges for parents and younger players, particularly when games include mechanics designed to encourage continued engagement or spending.
CMCF said the proposed Gaming Sub-Code is intended to keep safeguards in line with these developments while recognising that the gaming industry includes a wide variety of games, services and business models.
The Sub-Code is being developed under CMCF's self-regulatory framework and would operate alongside the existing Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Content Code and other applicable laws and regulatory requirements.
Malaysians Can Still Have Their Say
The proposed Gaming Sub-Code has not been finalised, meaning the current consultation is an opportunity for gamers, parents and other stakeholders to influence the final framework.
CMCF is inviting gamers, parents, publishers, consumer groups, civil society organisations and members of the public to review the draft and submit their feedback before 24 October 2026.
Organisations and interested parties can also request dedicated town hall sessions with CMCF for a more detailed walkthrough of the proposal.
Following the 45-day consultation, CMCF will review and consolidate the feedback received before deciding on the final version of the Gaming Sub-Code.
For Malaysian gamers, the biggest takeaway is that loot boxes, gacha systems, in-game spending and child safety could face clearer standards in the future. Exactly what those rules will look like, however, will depend on the feedback received during the current public consultation.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Malaysia is proposing new gaming guidelines covering loot boxes, gacha mechanics, in-game spending and child safety.

113a5eff597e34654113ac62233983681c89f2aa386c213c771db4023f805a34

Malaysia Proposes New Gaming Rules Covering Loot Boxes, Gacha And Child Safety

Malaysia&rsquo;s expanded social protection system is facing a worrying development after PERKESO revealed that 52% of workers who opted out of LINDUNG 24 Jam earn below RM3,500 a month.
The figure has raised concerns because lower-income workers are among those most vulnerable to financial difficulties if they suffer an accident outside working hours, while many may not have other forms of insurance coverage.
PERKESO Group Chief Executive Officer Datuk Seri Dr Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed said 8.5 million workers, or 87.6%, chose to remain in the scheme, while 12.4% opted out after the grace period ended on 31 August 2026.
What Is LINDUNG 24 Jam?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/956b876eb0082ab3074c058b044db24ff3e83eb8338bb6f4e3b937ad29796a6f" />
Introduced on 1 June 2026, LINDUNG 24 Jam is PERKESO&rsquo;s Non-Employment Injury Scheme, designed to extend social protection to eligible workers for accidents that happen outside working hours and are not directly related to their employment.
This is separate from PERKESO&rsquo;s employment injury protection, which covers accidents arising from work.
The scheme was introduced because workers spend far more time outside their workplaces than actually carrying out their jobs. PERKESO estimates that a formal-sector worker spends around 33% of the year working, including commuting, leaving roughly 67%, or about 244 days, when an accident outside working hours would previously have fallen outside employment-related protection.
12.4% Opted Out, But Lower-Income Workers Make Up The Majority
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/88e588850f3f35d3481b69c2d85effdbf60ea62a2c36553499e2881a5e116200" />
Although the majority of employees decided to remain protected, 12.4% chose to opt out before the 31 August deadline.
What has particularly concerned PERKESO is the income profile of those who left. Workers earning below RM3,500 made up 52% of the opt-outs, while the remaining 48% earned RM3,500 or more.
Dr Mohammed Azman said this was worrying because lower-income workers are more likely to face a serious financial impact if an unexpected accident leaves them temporarily or permanently unable to work.
PERKESO has also highlighted limited insurance coverage among lower-income Malaysians. According to data cited by the organisation, only 45.5% of Malaysians had life insurance in 2024, while coverage among the B40 group was around 4%.
Klang Valley Accounts For More Than Half Of Opt-Outs
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/216b100df73b62226ec20502440c1f416b0e01caa17de3332a69fbc7a8690fd6" />
The majority of workers choosing to leave the scheme were concentrated in Malaysia&rsquo;s major urban economic centres.
Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya accounted for 53% of all opt-outs, followed by:
<ul>
<li>Johor &mdash; 11%</li>
<li>Penang &mdash; 9%</li>
<li>Other states &mdash; 27%</li>
</ul>
PERKESO said the concentration in these areas may partly reflect higher incomes and greater access to private insurance, although Dr Mohammed Azman stressed that private insurance should not be viewed as a replacement for social protection.
He warned that earning more and having a private insurance policy does not automatically mean a worker has comprehensive social protection.
&ldquo;Social protection is not insurance coverage,&rdquo; he stressed, pointing out that the two serve different purposes.
6,330 Claims Already Recorded In Three Months
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d1ec1135427789cb0347ecddd3e986e4898a1140748954e3a86582de2c01de78" />
The early figures from LINDUNG 24 Jam also show that accidents outside working hours are not merely a theoretical risk.
Between 1 June and 31 August 2026, PERKESO received 6,330 claims, averaging around 69 cases every day.
The organisation paid out approximately RM9.97 million in benefits during the scheme&rsquo;s first three months. The payments covered areas including temporary and permanent disablement, medical expenses, funeral benefits, dependants&rsquo; benefits and rehabilitation equipment and implants.
Even more notably, 74% of the claims came from workers earning below RM3,500.
This means the group that makes up the largest share of opt-outs is also the same group that has made the majority of claims under the scheme so far.
Nearly 10,000 Workers Have Already Rejoined
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/de763aad0749987fb39b15b33d51bc2e2065c656566a6141eecd93f3c7041123" />
There is, however, a positive development.
Since the opt-out period ended, approximately 9,000 to 10,000 workers who previously chose to leave the scheme have already rejoined.
Workers who opted out can still return to LINDUNG 24 Jam through PERKESO&rsquo;s online system, and there is no deadline for them to opt back in. However, the opt-out window itself will not be reopened.
PERKESO is continuing its awareness efforts, particularly among lower-income workers, to explain the importance of remaining covered against accidents that can happen outside the workplace.
How Much Does LINDUNG 24 Jam Cost?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/221a9a55f64dfbb5af8be60257e9adacd05ac0ba8958923fa7f92dcfbb223c1c" />
The scheme is funded through employee contributions, with the rate introduced in phases.
Workers contribute:
<ul>
<li>0.75% of wages for the first two years</li>
<li>1% for years three to five</li>
<li>1.25% from the sixth year onwards</li>
</ul>
PERKESO says the initial 0.75% rate is among the lowest in the region.
The organisation describes LINDUNG 24 Jam as a social safety net rather than a substitute for private insurance, with the goal of ensuring workers continue to have protection when accidents happen beyond the workplace.
Why PERKESO Wants Workers To Think Twice
For PERKESO, the concern is not simply the number of people who opted out, but who is choosing to leave and what could happen when something goes wrong.
With thousands of claims already recorded in just three months &mdash; and nearly three-quarters coming from workers earning below RM3,500 &mdash; the scheme has already demonstrated the potential need for protection outside working hours.
The fact that nearly 10,000 workers have since changed their minds and rejoined also suggests some workers may have reconsidered the risks after learning more about what LINDUNG 24 Jam provides.
For now, PERKESO&rsquo;s message is straightforward: social protection is meant to follow workers wherever accidents happen, not only protect them while they are at work.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Opting out could leave workers more exposed than they realise. 52% of those who opted out earn below RM3,500.

eaad45276ee65192c41c63cb69a93d0aff1a8c5ce4844f409e68099f074af1eb

Nearly Half Of LINDUNG 24 Jam Opt-Outs Earn Below RM3,500, Raising PERKESO Concerns

Malaysia&rsquo;s latest international education assessment has delivered a mixed report card. While Malaysian students have improved in Science and Reading, the country&rsquo;s Mathematics performance has fallen by 11 points, prompting the Education Ministry to acknowledge that the decline needs serious attention.
The results come from the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2025, an OECD assessment of 15-year-old students measuring how well they can apply knowledge and skills to real-world problems.
Malaysia&rsquo;s assessment involved 7,624 students from 157 schools and educational institutions nationwide, as part of the study involving 91 participating countries and economies.
Science And Reading Scores Improve
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d361e4c0a4364cb3236c3720961fe31811b4ef5ecbc75402e970ed1ddc5049e9" />
There is encouraging news in the latest results.
Malaysia&rsquo;s Science literacy score increased by three points to 419, compared with PISA 2022, while Reading literacy rose by five points to 393. Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek described the improvements as encouraging, particularly as several OECD averages also declined.
However, Malaysian students remain below the OECD average in all three core domains, meaning there is still significant room for improvement.
Mathematics Falls 11 Points
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/33e5b8a3493cff191ed2fa20b1adad8070755d5ce3bf5ec6db6df6867a724ed3" />
The biggest concern is Mathematics.
Malaysia&rsquo;s average PISA Mathematics score dropped from 408 in 2022 to 397 in 2025, marking an 11-point decline.
Fadhlina said the ministry could not treat the result as a one-off fluctuation and needed to examine the issue more seriously. She also stressed that knowing formulas and procedures is not enough if students cannot apply what they have learned to unfamiliar situations.
That is where the government&rsquo;s Mathematics Education Transformation Plan comes in, focusing on conceptual understanding, mathematical reasoning and problem-solving rather than simply finding the correct answer.
Strong Computational Problem-Solving Skills
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d10ab30f791bd21bfa75a3a05c6b28aced116727e030da77b5306ede09cf2a4d" />
Interestingly, the Mathematics decline comes alongside a relative strength in computational problem-solving.
Malaysia recorded a score of 484, below the OECD average of 500, but performed strongly compared with what its traditional academic results might suggest.
The OECD found that 82.6% of Malaysian students performed better in computational problem-solving than would be expected based on their Science performance, the highest proportion among countries with comparable data.
The skill involves breaking complex problems into smaller parts, recognising patterns, identifying relevant information and organising logical steps towards a solution. This presents an interesting challenge for Malaysia: students appear capable of strong problem-solving, but those skills are not consistently translating into stronger Mathematics results.
The Education Ministry is responding with measures including a Mathematics Misconceptions Module, teacher retraining and other targeted interventions.
Moving Away From Rote Learning
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/251845f28be370b54391b8145fffc5baf097649d1992684ec21984f640884683" />
Academics have also called for Mathematics education to move away from memorising procedures and towards deeper understanding.
Prof Datuk Dr Ahmad Ibrahim of UCSI University said some students continue to struggle with basic concepts such as fractions, making advanced Mathematics more difficult later on. He argued that stronger foundations should be built from the early primary years.
National STEM Association president Prof Datuk Dr Noraini Idris similarly called for concepts to be presented more intuitively so students understand the reasoning behind mathematical methods rather than simply memorising them.
The Mathematics Education Transformation Plan 2026&ndash;2035 aims to address these weaknesses by identifying learning gaps earlier, improving teacher expertise and strengthening mathematical reasoning.
Teachers Remain A Major Strength
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/38aa2da56e6868c18898b88bfa15b3e66173da49ceca82ecfca3eb127181762e" />
Despite the Mathematics decline, PISA 2025 highlighted strong relationships between Malaysian students and their teachers.
The findings showed:
<ul>
<li>91% said teachers helped their learning.</li>
<li>87% said teachers taught until they understood.</li>
<li>86% received extra help when needed.</li>
<li>83% were given opportunities to express their opinions.</li>
<li>80% said teachers showed interest in their learning.</li>
</ul>
OECD Education and Skills Director Andreas Schleicher also highlighted Malaysian students&rsquo; curiosity, resilience and ability to manage their own learning, while praising the support provided by teachers.
Malaysia Shows Strong Education Equity
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9629928d599028692b7ed9b429f84bbee69f6ca643699a2722f098078dded3b4" />
Another strength is education equity.
Schleicher said only around 17% of the variation in student performance occurs between Malaysian schools, lower than the international average.
This suggests the school a student attends has less influence on academic performance compared with many other education systems. He also said Malaysia compares positively with high-performing countries such as Singapore in terms of equity.
Rather than rebuilding the entire education system, Malaysia could therefore strengthen what already works while focusing on specific weaknesses.
Parents And Cyberbullying Remain Concerns
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7fa41c6e3f1881d8d007fdea2960e9df8cc951c123e63d3652fc8a62966b2f70" />
PISA 2025 also highlighted challenges beyond the classroom.
Family support for learning appears to have declined. Only 34% of Malaysian students said they discussed school problems with their parents at least weekly, down from 46% in 2022. Those discussing school activities weekly also fell from 57% to 51%.
Cyberbullying is another concern, with around 5% of Malaysian students reporting that they had experienced it, compared with 3% across the OECD.
Fadhlina stressed that these findings should not simply become a matter of blaming parents, teachers or schools. Instead, she called for families and the wider community to play a stronger role in supporting students.
What Happens Next?
The PISA 2025 results present a mixed picture for Malaysian education.
Science and Reading have improved, computational problem-solving is a relative strength, teacher support remains high and Malaysia performs comparatively well in education equity.
However, the 11-point drop in Mathematics is the warning sign that cannot be ignored.
The next challenge is turning Malaysia&rsquo;s strengths in curiosity, resilience, computational thinking and teacher support into stronger mathematical reasoning and real-world problem-solving.
Ultimately, Mathematics needs to be more than memorising formulas and producing answers. Students need to understand why something works and how to apply that knowledge when the problem changes.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Malaysia’s Maths score fell 11 points in PISA 2025, while Singapore dropped 13 — but Thailand rose 13 and the Philippines jumped 20.

df9850458d5e1b6772737daa62245180614c2ed067b60b91ccd1e313fe048d88

Malaysia’s PISA 2025 Results Show Maths Decline Despite Gains In Science And Reading

A tragic helicopter crash in Sarawak has claimed the lives of five people who were travelling to provide healthcare to communities in one of the state&rsquo;s most remote areas.
The BO-105 helicopter, carrying a pilot and four Ministry of Health (MOH) personnel, crashed near the Long Lellang Short Take-Off and Landing Airport (STOLport) in Ulu Baram at around 3.40pm on 8 September 2026.
All five people on board were later confirmed dead. The helicopter was operating a Flying Doctor Service (FDS) mission, a programme that brings medical care to rural communities that are difficult to reach by road or river.
Five People Killed In Flying Doctor Service Mission
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0fce7fed867f2c13d9ea17956433cd970294e3083217f6593c9215bb38aede39" />
The victims were identified as pilot Captain Zainol Afiq Bee Sham, 31, medical officer Dr Ainul Baraah Kamaruddin, assistant medical officer Alexson Adit, and nurses Debra Moset and Jessie Paya.
Captain Zainol, who was from Senawang, Negeri Sembilan, leaves behind a wife and two children aged six and 10 months.
His father, Bee Sham Ahmad, said the family&rsquo;s last contact with him came the night before the crash, when Zainol had a video call with his mother lasting more than an hour and a half. The family later travelled to Miri for DNA testing and identification procedures as the crash site was deep in Sarawak&rsquo;s interior.
Dr Ainul, who was from Kelantan, had been working as a doctor in Miri. Her father, Kamaruddin Salleh, said she had returned to Sarawak only two days before the crash after spending a week with her family in Kelantan. He described her as quiet and kind-hearted.
What Happened At Long Lellang?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5606df452d942745e1d60a9adcfc9262254b675433c5216744212ba5b30d3f37" />
The helicopter, registered 9M-LLF, had departed from Miri to carry out a Flying Doctor Service operation covering remote locations.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) said it received notification of the incident from the Flight Information Service at 3.58pm. Initial reports indicated that the helicopter crashed near the end of the Long Lellang airstrip and caught fire.
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The cause of the crash has not been established. The Air Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) under the Transport Ministry is leading the investigation under Part XXVI of the Civil Aviation Regulations 2016.
Because of the remote terrain, haze and difficult conditions, search and recovery efforts were challenging. Authorities secured the crash site and instructed that the wreckage remain undisturbed for investigators.
Flying Doctor Service Is A Lifeline For Rural Sarawak
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5b4b3958ea328c2fb13f69a4b5601c832778ea6e35561d67c3c13e9b833028e7" />
The tragedy has also highlighted the importance of the Flying Doctor Service, which has operated in Sarawak since 1973.
The programme allows medical teams to reach isolated communities where travelling to a hospital or clinic can take hours or even days. FDS teams provide services such as consultations, medicines and vaccinations, while also supporting medical evacuation operations.
The Health Ministry said around 97 localities in Sarawak currently require FDS services, particularly in areas around Kapit, Miri and Limbang where road access remains limited.
Residents in Long Siut, a settlement along the helicopter&rsquo;s route, said the crew had stopped there to refuel before continuing towards Long Lellang.
A local shop owner said the crew arrived around noon and spent about an hour resting, having drinks and buying supplies. She recalled that the crew mentioned haze had affected the weather before they departed.
According to her account, one crew member said they had to continue because they already had an appointment with a patient. However, investigators have yet to determine whether weather conditions played any role in the crash.
Safety Concerns Raised After The Crash
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a6f60162b7f3577306661f21d1179d6153a4252a707dcaa810bdc1c33d916435" />
Following the tragedy, concerns have emerged over the safety arrangements and welfare provided to healthcare workers involved in FDS operations.
Government doctor Dr Justine Sim said that during his own experience accompanying a patient by helicopter, he had not received dedicated aviation safety training or a detailed briefing covering emergency evacuation procedures and aviation-related risks.
He also highlighted the RM30 Air Health Service Incentive Payment for healthcare workers travelling on FDS flights, an allowance introduced in 1978.
Dr Sim called for a broader review rather than simply increasing the allowance, including aviation safety training, occupational risk insurance, emergency preparedness, compensation and indemnity requirements.
The Health Ministry has confirmed that the FDS allowance is under review, with a proposal reportedly submitted to the relevant authorities in November 2025.
Questions Over The Helicopter&rsquo;s Age
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/80119b39aa52f82f14ee88e4c6c849db987d447fc8ed6f1e3752a1085536a386" />
The age and condition of the aircraft have also become part of the public discussion.
Senator Dr Lingeshwaran R. Arunasalam said available aviation information showed that the BO-105 was built in Germany around 1991, making it about 35 years old. He called for helicopters of the same model to be temporarily grounded until the crash investigation establishes the cause.
However, there is currently no confirmed evidence that the aircraft&rsquo;s age or condition caused the crash. Those questions remain part of the wider investigation, along with maintenance records and the contractor&rsquo;s operational procedures.
The FDS is operated by a private company under a government contract, prompting calls for the government to ensure contractors meet the required aviation and safety standards.
Government Offers Support To Victims&rsquo; Families
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9cde7194d61697b82dd7d6af06ebde229195336039404fff7356476eacb57af0" />
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed his condolences to the victims&rsquo; families and said the government would provide the necessary assistance and support.
He also urged the public to give the families space and refrain from speculation while authorities establish the facts.
The Sarawak state government separately announced a RM100,000 contribution to each victim&rsquo;s family, along with full education fee support through the Sarawak Foundation for the victims&rsquo; children who are still in school.
Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil later said the Cabinet had also conveyed its condolences to the families during its weekly meeting, while noting that investigations by the AAIB were ongoing.
As authorities continue examining the cause of the Long Lellang helicopter crash, questions around aircraft safety, staff protection and the future of the Flying Doctor Service are likely to remain in focus.
For the families, colleagues and communities they were travelling to serve, however, the tragedy is ultimately about five people who lost their lives while carrying out an important mission to bring healthcare to some of Sarawak&rsquo;s most difficult-to-reach communities.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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As investigations continue into the Sarawak helicopter crash, the government has pledged support for the families of the five victims.

8469673ee3c8f0f28803a34d3b5e0c3e386b73575994a1ff3fb67b650382d6da

Pilot And Four Health Ministry Personnel Killed In Sarawak Helicopter Crash

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

Malaysian politics is no stranger to chaos, but every once in a while, a political debate takes a very different turn. This time, the controversy has centred on the afterlife, after PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan said that those who join PAS, accept Islam and fight for the party&rsquo;s Islamic-based struggle could have a path to heaven.
The remarks, made during a PAS event in Kota Bharu, have since triggered criticism from politicians, religious figures and government representatives, with several arguing that matters involving heaven and hell should not be used as part of political campaigning or linked directly to support for a particular party.
Takiyuddin Says PAS&rsquo; Islamic Struggle Could Lead To Heaven
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f0d0f79162bd8667c0bc93c37f1fa9ef3e92f3bd2f563f388ee484af63930de4" />
The controversy began with remarks made by Takiyuddin during a ceremony marking PAS&rsquo; 75th anniversary in Kelantan.
Takiyuddin acknowledged that PAS is a political organisation but argued that its struggle is based on Islam and follows teachings commanded by Allah. He said those who died while defending Islam could be regarded as martyrs and receive divine rewards.
Addressing the criticism that &ldquo;joining PAS means entering heaven&rdquo; was simply a slogan used by political opponents, Takiyuddin appeared to embrace the phrase, saying that joining PAS, accepting Islam and fighting along what he described as an Islamic path could, God willing, lead someone to heaven.
He also highlighted PAS&rsquo; growing membership, claiming that the party has more than one million members nationwide, excluding non-members and supporters overseas.
The remarks quickly became a talking point because of the apparent link between political membership and support and a person&rsquo;s possible fate in the afterlife.
Mahfuz Says PAS Is Not A &lsquo;Passport To Heaven&rsquo;
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/334a2fc6d340849ed1375d7f9811fc43fddbbed43ec2125da8b219295a913fb4" />
Among the most vocal critics was Amanah vice-president Datuk Mahfuz Omar, who sarcastically asked whether PAS had somehow become an &ldquo;immigration counter&rdquo; for the afterlife.
Mahfuz argued that PAS has every right to ask Malaysians to support or vote for the party, but it has never been given any mandate to determine who will enter heaven.
He questioned when a ballot paper became a &ldquo;passport&rdquo; to the afterlife and when a political party was given authority to decide a person&rsquo;s final destination.
Mahfuz also warned that such remarks could create the impression that Muslims who support other political parties are somehow on the wrong path.
He said political parties should not turn heaven into political currency to win elections. Instead, if politics is genuinely meant to reflect Islamic values, parties should demonstrate this through issues such as justice, corruption, poverty, education, public welfare, trust and good governance.
Mujahid Calls The Claim Baseless
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/70c6335627854e3d2e0a631eab0287d4eab0e2b1960ed9bb66b1ceb7a166b676" />
Former religious affairs minister and Amanah deputy president Datuk Dr Mujahid Yusof Rawa also criticised the statement, describing the idea that joining or supporting PAS could lead someone to heaven as baseless.
Mujahid stressed that entering heaven depends on Allah&rsquo;s mercy rather than support for a particular political party. He also questioned whether linking divine mercy to political support could amount to exploiting religion for political purposes.
The criticism has therefore expanded beyond a simple political disagreement, raising wider questions about how religious values should be incorporated into Malaysian politics.
Religious Affairs Minister Warns Against Mixing Religion And Politics
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/dc6ee91497d057dbdf497175bfe4a48d9aca3135d83823a10da27989886c28e8" />
Minister in the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan also weighed in, stressing that the determination of heaven and hell is the absolute right of Allah SWT.
He said support for any political organisation should not be treated as a measurement of whether someone has attained Allah&rsquo;s pleasure. Instead, faith, piety and righteous deeds should remain the foundations guiding Muslims.
Zulkifli also cautioned against one group portraying itself as unquestionably righteous while suggesting others are excluded from Allah&rsquo;s mercy. He described such an attitude as ghuluw, or religious excess.
He further stressed that political parties are human organisations and should not be equated with religion itself. Parties can be platforms for political action, but they remain subject to human judgement, weaknesses and differences of opinion.
He urged political parties to practise mature and ethical politics centred on justice, the wellbeing of the Muslim community and good character rather than exploiting religious sentiment for political gain.
More Calls For A Healthier Political Debate
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/aa6d2a9b1e633ede844837bbc034b1ed367a23f100732de476dd5d0a3abde54d" />
The criticism has also extended beyond Amanah. Angkatan Muda Keadilan chief Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim argued that people enter heaven through Allah&rsquo;s mercy, rather than by supporting any political party.
He said Malaysia had experienced similar forms of religiously charged political messaging in previous decades and urged politicians to move towards healthier debates focused on policies, social justice, fighting corruption, preventing leakages and improving governance.
Academic Prof Dr Tajuddin Rasdi also argued that political membership should not be treated as a guarantee of someone&rsquo;s position in the afterlife, stressing that a person&rsquo;s intentions, deeds and ultimate fate cannot simply be determined by political affiliation.
Religion And Political Support Should Stay Separate
Regardless of political affiliation, the controversy serves as a reminder that religious belief and support for a political party are not the same thing.
Political parties can campaign on policies, values and their vision for Malaysia, while voters should be able to judge them based on issues such as the economy, corruption, education, welfare and governance.
Using heaven or hell as a reason to support a political party risks turning deeply personal religious beliefs into a political tool. Political competition can be fierce, but matters of faith should not be reduced to a voting strategy or used to suggest that supporting one party determines a person&rsquo;s ultimate fate.
And this is certainly not the first time PAS has made headlines over an unconventional idea involving Malaysia Airlines.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4672/pas-mps-call-for-malaysia-airlines-to-replace-alcohol-with-cendol">PAS MPs Call For Malaysia Airlines To Replace Alcohol With Cendol</a>
In 2025, PAS lawmakers suggested that Malaysia Airlines replace alcoholic beverages with traditional Malaysian drinks such as cendol, sirap bandung and ais batu campur, arguing that local drinks could better showcase Malaysian culture while avoiding alcohol being served on flights.
From heavenly &ldquo;passports&rdquo; to in-flight cendol, Malaysian politics certainly knows how to keep the conversation going.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Sometimes, it’s better to keep politics and religion separate.

Apple Surprise And Shine 2026: iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone Duo, AirPods 5 And Apple Watch Series 12 Launched

Apple has a whole new lineup coming, from the iPhone 18 Pro to the first iPhone Duo. But if you’re eyeing the iPhone 17, there’s a catch — prices have gone up.

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