NILAI, Dec 7 — Malaysia has taken a bold step in asserting its leadership in space governance with the conclusion of the Space Law Moot Court Competition 2025 (PMPA 2025), held at Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM). The event marked the country’s first national-level moot dedicated to space law, drawing participation from 12 teams across nine universities, and underscoring the nation’s commitment to cultivating legal expertise in this emerging field.

Organised by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) in collaboration with USIM and the Malaysian Innovation Foundation (YIM), the competition served as a strategic platform to strengthen Malaysia’s legal literacy in space-related matters. The initiative aligns with the National Space Policy 2030 (DAN2030), which aims to grow the space sector’s contribution to 1% of GDP and develop 5,000 specialised experts by the end of the decade.

Importance of Space Law

MOSTI’s Deputy Secretary-General (Planning and Science Culture), Datuk Ruziah Shafei, in her closing address highlighted the urgency of space law as a national and global security imperative. “Space law is no longer a theoretical discipline; it has become a necessity. Nations that fail to understand their international obligations risk facing major liabilities and severe security threats,” she said.

The competition embraced a multidisciplinary approach, integrating civil law, Shariah principles, space policy, and technological applications. This reflects USIM’s dual mandate as a reference centre for both civil and Islamic legal studies. The event also featured side programmes including the National Space Law Conference 2025, webinars, podcasts, and an exclusive interview with the MOSTI Minister, Mr Chang Lih Kang further enriching the educational experience.

MOSTI’s Space Regulator, Dr Mhd Fairos Asillam, noted that the competition was designed not only to test advocacy skills but also to nurture future space lawyers capable of representing Malaysia in international forums such as the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

The Oral Advanced Rounds, held from 5-7 December, saw six finalist teams selected from the initial twelve. While the names of the finalist institutions remain confidential under competition rules, the winning team will represent Malaysia at the Asia-Pacific round of the Manfred Lachs Space Law Moot Court Competition in Gujerat, India, in 2026, with professional training sponsored by MOSTI.

Space Governance and Legislation

The PMPA 2025 also spotlighted Malaysia’s legislative progress in space governance, including the Malaysian Space Board Act 2022 [Act 834], the Space Object Accident Investigation Guidelines, and Malaysia’s participation in key UN treaties such as the Outer Space Treaty 1967 and the Registration Convention 1975.

Minister Chang Lih Kang praised the initiative as a milestone in Malaysia’s journey toward becoming a regional centre for space law and policy. “This competition can produce a generation of young lawyers ready to safeguard national interests as we compete on the global stage,” he said.

This year’s competition showcased outstanding performances from all teams, with the official results as follows:

Champion: Universiti Malaya (UM)

Runner-Up: Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM)

Best Mooter (Individual): Universiti Malaya (UM)

Best Memorial (Two Teams): Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM)

The closing ceremony brought together academics, legal practitioners, industry representatives, and government officials, all of whom contributed to the success of this landmark event. With its blend of legal rigor, policy relevance, and youth engagement, PMPA 2025 has set a new benchmark for space law education in Southeast Asia. – NMH

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PENANG, 12 Aug – The Penang Signature Gold, Gems & Jewellery (PSG) Fair 2025 is set to dazzle the region from 15–17 August, positioning itself as ASEAN’s largest gold-focused B2B jewellery exhibition. The event, now in its ninth edition, will take place at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre and is expected to attract over 5,000 trade buyers and delegates from across the globe.

Organised by Elite Expo Sdn Bhd and co-organised by the Penang Goldsmith & Jewellers Association (PGJA), the fair will host more than 120 booths from eight countries, including the United Kingdom, Turkey, China, Thailand, India, Singapore, Japan and Malaysia – along with major players from Dubai, Indonesia and Brunei.

“Malaysia used to be among the top three gold exporters in the world, and 80% of its gold manufacturing is based right here in Penang,” said Datuk Johnson Lim, CEO of Elite Expo, at the press conference. “We have exceptional craftsmanship, competitive labour costs, and a tax-free jewellery market – advantages that make Malaysia an ideal international hub for jewellery trade and exchange.”

Lim noted that Malaysia’s multilingual, friendly business environment, combined with its accessibility and rich cultural appeal, gives it an edge over other ASEAN destinations for hosting such an event.

Global Insights and New Platforms

This year’s fair features a packed programme of seminars and networking opportunities, including:

• Market Development Grant (MDG) Seminar by MATRADE (15 Aug) – guiding Malaysian SMEs on tapping financial assistance for export promotion activities.
• Gold Price Forecast & Trend Analysis (16 Aug) – featuring experts from the World Gold Council and Metals Focus, providing high-value market insights.
• Platinum Jewellery: New Era of Demand – with Platinum Guild International exploring fresh trends and markets for the precious metal.
• ASEAN Market Panel – industry leaders from Thailand, Laos and the UAE discussing regional challenges and opportunities.

“Buying research papers from Metals Focus can cost as much as RM100,000, even more, but our participants will get these insights first-hand,” Lim said.

A Regional Showcase, ASEAN’s Pride

PGJA President Datuk Ivan Chee said PSG 2025 will also debut Malaysia’s first dedicated jewellery fashion show, the Penang Jewellery Fashion Week (PJFW), during the association’s 37th gala dinner on 16 August.

“This concept will set a new benchmark in presenting our jewellery craftsmanship – blending haute couture with fine jewellery for industry leaders, buyers and international guests,” Chee added.

For Penang, the event is more than a trade fair – it’s a statement of heritage and capability. “For over a century, Penang has been home to master craftsmen whose skills have been passed down through generations,” Lim said. “Today, our industry is thriving – with gold-related exports in the first quarter of 2025 alone reaching RM 2.34 billion, nearly 10% higher than the same period last year.”

With the ASEAN Summit also taking place in Malaysia this year, the PSG Fair 2025 is poised to shine as a symbol of Penang’s role in the global gold and jewellery trade – one that blends tradition, innovation, and a touch of glamour. – NMH

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KUALA LUMPUR, 18 June 2025: When MCA Pahang Youth Chief Wong Siew Mun posted a TikTok video on 6 June questioning the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission’s (MCMC) quiet move to collect mobile data from telecommunications companies, she never imagined she’d end up summoned by police.

But that’s exactly what happened.

This morning, flanked by her legal team led by lawyer Kamarudin Ahmad and about 20 MCA Youth members in a show of solidarity, the Pahang MCA Youth chief walked into Bukit Aman federal police headquarters to have her statement recorded.

The allegation? She dared to publicly voice what many Malaysians are already worried about — the creeping overreach of government surveillance and the shrinking space for dissent.

“The video I posted is based on facts reported by mainstream media and official statements made by a minister and a government agency,” Wong told reporters outside Bukit Aman, just before going in.

“I feel the government should not abuse the law to mute the voice of the people. I was merely voicing out the concerns of the public. I have no intention to instigate or disrupt public order.”

But the investigation against her suggests otherwise.

Weaponising the Law to Intimidate

Wong’s statement has put the spotlight on a broader issue: how Malaysian authorities have increasingly turned to the legal system to silence uncomfortable questions — particularly those raised on social media.

Lawyer Kamarudin Ahmad was blunt in his assessment:

“She did nothing wrong. She exercised her constitutional right to free speech,” he said, adding that there was no criminal intent in Wong’s post.

He called on the MCMC to withdraw its police report and urged authorities to stop what he described as “intimidation tactics.”

“This is a democratic country. Why should raising a concern based on public information be treated like a crime?”

Muzzling the Messenger, Ignoring the Message

Wong’s video, which went viral across TikTok and Facebook, questioned why the MCMC would require telcos to hand over mobile data of users — and under what legal framework this was being done.

Instead of addressing those valid questions, the government responded with silence — and now, apparent retaliation.

“When the public voices out its grievances, I urge the government to look into its weaknesses and enhance its policies, not find ways to silence us,” Wong said.

Her statement resonates with many Malaysians who have watched with unease as voices of dissent — from students to journalists to opposition leaders — are increasingly being hauled up for questioning over online content.

Present at the scene were other MCA figures including publicity bureau head Chan Quin Er, deputy Ivone Low, and Selangor Youth representative Tan Jie Sen — underscoring that Wong is not standing alone.

A Dangerous Precedent Voiced By Many, Not Just MCA

Civil society organisations have raised alarms about the implications of the government’s actions.

According to Suara Rakyat Malaysia (SUARAM), the government has yet to provide transparent legal justification for mass data collection initiatives. “If there is no opt-in mechanism or proper legislative oversight, this is a violation of privacy rights enshrined in our Constitution,” a recent SUARAM statement read.

Similarly, the Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) issued a reminder: “Investigating a person for citing public information and expressing concern sets a dangerous precedent. It sends a chilling message to others — speak up, and you could be next.”

As of now, the MCMC has not issued a public comment on the investigation into Wong Siew Mun.

What’s Next?

Wong has vowed not to back down.

“I will cooperate with the police, but I will not be cowed into silence,” she said defiantly.

Whether the government chooses to escalate the case further — or quietly withdraws after public pressure mounts — remains to be seen. But the message has already been sent: in today’s Malaysia, questioning authority, even based on facts, can come at a personal cost.

And for many watching this unfold, the real issue isn’t Wong’s video — it’s the system’s reaction to it. – NMH

* this article is supported by Ai

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KUALA LUMPUR, 16 June — Former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Abdul Razak has launched a scathing legal assault on former Attorney General Tan Sri Ahmad Terrirudin Mohd Salleh, accusing him of serious criminal misconduct in suppressing a royal Addendum Order that could have seen the former premier serving his prison sentence under house arrest.

The explosive allegations were contained in a police report filed on Najib’s behalf by his lead counsel Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah, after repeated requests to lodge the report from within Kajang Prison were reportedly denied by both the Prisons Department and the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Najib, who is currently serving a reduced six-year sentence in Kajang Prison following a partial royal pardon, claims that a second, Addendum Order issued by the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong granted him the right to serve his sentence under home detention. However, this royal decree was never executed, allegedly due to deliberate suppression by the former AG.

“Despite having direct knowledge of the Addendum Order, Tan Sri Ahmad Terrirudin deliberately misled the High Court,” the report states.

Malaysia’s 6th Prime Minister alleges that the Addendum Order, dated 29 January 2024, was withheld from public knowledge and deliberately buried by authorities, including the Attorney General’s Chambers. Najib claims his legal team had written to the AG’s office in February requesting confirmation of the Order’s existence — a request that was ignored.

Najib Filed Judicial Review

When Najib filed for judicial review in April, seeking to confirm and enforce the Addendum Order, Ahmad Terrirudin, through his Federal Counsel, objected to the application on the grounds that it was “speculative” — despite, according to Najib, being in possession of the very document in question.

“This was not merely an administrative lapse, but a clear and wilful act of deceiving the judiciary,” Najib’s report contends, adding that such actions amount to criminal offences under Sections 204 and 209 of the Penal Code, for hiding evidence and dishonestly making a false claim before the court.

Najib further states that the Addendum Order was later obtained through his son from the Royal Household of the Sultan of Pahang — the former Agong — confirming both its existence and authenticity. A subsequent letter from the Royal Household dated 4 January 2025 reaffirmed that Najib was, in fact, granted home imprisonment, effective from the same date as the main pardon.

Obstructing Royal Authority

The police report paints a damning picture of a top legal officer allegedly obstructing royal authority and interfering with justice by:

• Suppressing a legitimate Addendum Order issued by the monarch;
• Instructing government lawyers to argue in court that the document did not exist;
• Misleading the judiciary into rejecting Najib’s request for leave to review the matter.

Najib asserts that the former AG’s actions were not only in contempt of the royal pardon process but also amount to serious criminal breaches that call for an immediate and thorough police investigation.

“Justice must be upheld, and the decree of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong must be respected and executed in full,” the report concludes.

Legal Saga

This latest move adds another explosive layer to Najib’s ongoing legal saga, coming at a time when questions over prosecutorial conduct and institutional transparency continue to dominate national discourse.

Efforts are now expected to shift towards whether law enforcement will act on this report — and what consequences may follow for the former AG if found to have deliberately misled the courts and obstructed royal justice. – NMH

*This article has been supported by AI

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KUALA LUMPUR – Projek SAMA, a BERSIH offshoot, may have hoped to rally public opposition against former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s application for royal pardon. Instead, the group’s latest press briefing raised serious questions about bias, accuracy, and fairness—particularly when its own data showed strong support from Indian and Malay communities.

The Merdeka Center survey, commissioned under Projek SAMA’s “No Dua Darjat” campaign, polled just 1,200 people nationwide. Still, the group repeatedly claimed that a “majority of Malaysians” opposed clemency — despite contradictory findings picked up by media outlets such as Malaysiakini and Free Malaysia Today, both of which highlighted that a majority of Indian respondents favoured Najib’s pardon.

BERSIH Legacy, Same Obsession?

Although Projek SAMA promotes itself as an independent civil initiative, its roots trace back to the BERSIH electoral reform movement. Much like its predecessor, the group seems to retain a singular focus—Najib Razak. Even as Najib serves time behind bars, Projek SAMA continues to campaign against any form of clemency for him, portraying both a royal pardon and even house arrest — despite the existence of a Royal Addendum — as unacceptable.

Ironically, the group’s own commissioned survey appeared to undermine its stance. Results indicated that many Indian and Malay Malaysians supported Najib’s bid for clemency. This data point, highlighted by several media outlets, contradicted the group’s overall narrative and raised doubts about its credibility and intent.

The Numbers Don’t Add Up

Polling 1,200 respondents in a country of over 36 million may be statistically acceptable under some research conditions—but it does not justify broad claims such as “most Malaysians” or “national consensus.” Presenting such a narrow data sample as a reflection of nationwide opinion is, at best, misleading.

Moreover, while Projek SAMA leaned into results that aligned with its goals, it downplayed or ignored those that didn’t—such as the apparent support among Indian and Malay communities for Najib’s royal pardon.

Additionally, the group’s briefing materials referred to Najib as having “embezzled” public funds. In fact, embezzlement was not among the charges brought against him. Najib was convicted of criminal breach of trust (CBT), money laundering under AMLA, and abuse of power. The term “embezzlement” carries a specific legal meaning and using it inaccurately casts doubt on Projek SAMA’s integrity and grasp of legal facts.

Selective Advocacy

Projek SAMA claims to stand for stability and accountability. Yet, little was said during the briefing about present-day challenges that affect millions of Malaysians — rising living costs, stagnant wages, growing inequality, or even the systemic gaps in the current administration. The disproportionate focus on Najib appears more like an extension of old political vendettas rather than a genuine civil society concern.

True reform groups must scrutinise all levels of power — past and present. When the spotlight is so tightly fixed on a single individual, it’s hard not to question whether there is a broader political motive at play.

BERSIH, But Not Balanced

Perhaps the most troubling aspect of the briefing was the way it implicitly cast doubt on the Royal Pardon process itself. Article 42 of the Federal Constitution grants the Yang di-Pertuan Agong the authority to pardon convicted individuals. By questioning Najib’s right to appeal for mercy and framing a possible pardon as unjust, Projek SAMA risks undermining the constitutional monarchy and the legal rights of all prisoners.

Criticism is fair game—but it must be based on accurate data, legal precision, and a fair application of principles. Otherwise, groups like Projek SAMA risk becoming the very thing they claim to stand against: unaccountable, biased, and unbalanced.

There’s a difference between questioning a legal system and vilifying a lawful constitutional right. Projek SAMA’s messaging seems to blur that line — again, raising the question of intent.- NMH

The post BERSIH Splinter Group Undermines Its Own Case With Questionable Survey first appeared on NMH.

Malaysia bade a solemn farewell to its fifth Prime Minister, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, in a state funeral that drew dignitaries, royalty, and Malaysians from all walks of life. Known affectionately as Pak Lah, the former statesman was laid to rest with full honours at the Heroes’ Mausoleum, located next to the National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur, leaving behind a legacy of humility, reform, and quiet strength.

Foreign dignitaries including Singapore’s former Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Hollywood star Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh, and various heads of state were in attendance. Also present were Malaysian Sultans, cabinet ministers past and present, and former Prime Ministers, underscoring the respect Pak Lah commanded across political divides.

Pak Lah and Najib

But what truly captured the nation’s attention was the presence of former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, who was granted rare leave by the courts to pay his final respects. Najib, who served as Deputy Prime Minister under Pak Lah’s administration, had often referred to him as a mentor and political abang (brother). The quiet exchange of respect between Najib and Pak Lah’s family at the National Mosque added a deeply emotional note to the ceremony.

Another moment that moved many was a spontaneous gesture between Najib’s wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, and Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, wife of former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad. Rosmah was seen embracing and kissing Dr Siti Hasmah — a scene that was both touching and unexpected, given the long-standing political rivalry between their husbands.

Najib’s attendance at the funeral lit up social media. Footage and photos of his arrival quickly went viral, with many Malaysians expressing their sentiments online. His official Facebook post on his attendance at Pak Lah’s funeral garnered over 2 million views, reflecting not only public curiosity but also his enduring popularity despite his current incarceration.

Pak Lah’s passing marks the end of a chapter in Malaysia’s political history—one defined by his soft-spoken leadership and efforts at administrative reform. Yet, in many ways, the scenes at his funeral reflected a deeper yearning among Malaysians: for unity, dignity, and respect across even the most bitter of divides. – NMH

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Former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi will be buried at Makam Pahlawan (Warriors’ Mausoleum), at Masjid Negara, after Zohor tomorrow. His son-in-law and former health minister, Khairy Jamaluddin, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had spoken with the late Tun’s son, Tan Sri Kamaluddin Abdullah, regarding the burial arrangements.

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia mourns the loss of its 5th Prime Minister, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who passed away at 7:10 PM at the National Heart Institute (IJN) here.

Tun Abdullah, affectionately known as Pak Lah, had been receiving treatment at IJN since April 2024 following a serious heart attack. He led Malaysia from 2003 to 2009 and is remembered for his gentle leadership and emphasis on civilizational Islam and anti-corruption efforts.

Following his retirement from politics, Abdullah continued to contribute to public life and was honored with the title “Tun” in 2009 for his services to the nation.

May his soul be blessed and placed among the righteous. Al-Fatihah. – NMH

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KUALA LUMPUR, Wed – In a significant development in the ongoing 1MDB trial, the defence team of former Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Razak today called their 13th witness, Senior Assistant Commissioner Rajagopal a/l Ramadass. Rajagopal, a former Head of the Corporate Crime Investigation Unit at Bukit Aman, identified four individuals responsible for siphoning off approximately USD 1.367 billion from 1MDB.

He was tasked with investigating the alleged mismanagement at 1MDB following a report lodged by Datuk Seri Khairuddin Bin Abu Hassan on 12 December 2014 and during his testimony, SAC Rajagopal exposed the names of Datuk Shahrol Azral bin Ibrahim Halmi, Azmi Bin Tahir, Jasmine Loo, and Terrence Geh. Notably, Shahrol Azral (former 1MDB CEO), Azmi Tahir (former 1MDB CFO), and Jasmine Loo (1MDB General Legal Counsel) testified against Najib for the MACC’s prosecution team, together with Terrence Geh who remains a fugitive.

1MDB Funds Diversion Instructed By Shahrol

Rajagopal highlighted that the initial diversion of USD 700 million to Good Star Limited, a company beneficially owned by Low Taek Jho, was executed by Casey Tang on the instruction of 1MDB’s CEO, Shahrol Azral. He also found it peculiar that Shahrol had only seen the purported “Loan Agreement” with PetroSaudi International Limited for the first time when shown by the police during his statement recording. This loan agreement supposedly justified the diversion of USD 700 million of 1MDB’s investment to another entity not disclosed to the Board of Directors.

Rajagopal’s testimony will continue next Tuesday.

Earlier in the proceedings, Tan Sri Che Lodin bin Lok Kamaruddin, Chairman of 1MDB’s Board of Directors, maintained that there was no “top-down” approach practiced at 1MDB, contradicting the testimonies of prosecution witnesses, particularly Shahrol. Tan Sri Lodin emphasised that he was never a proxy of Najib and had always maintained a formal relationship with him, even stating that he did not have Najib’s phone number.

Appointed By Mahathir

Lodin corrected the misconception that Najib had appointed him to his positions at Lembaga Tabung Angkatan Tentera and Boustead Holdings, clarifying that his appointment to LTAT was made by another former Defence Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir.

He also refuted the prosecution’s narrative that Najib’s approvals for the company’s ventures always preceded the Board of Directors’ decisions. Lodin, the Board of Directors would seek shareholder approval for substantial acquisitions or dispositions before proceeding, as required under the Companies Act.

Additionally, Lodin debunked the theory that Najib wanted to terminate KPMG’s services as 1MDB’s auditors. He explained that the issue between KPMG and the company had been discussed for a long time before their services were terminated by mutual agreement. The former Prime Minister had held meetings with KPMG’s representatives to resolve the impasse, but to no avail. The issue with KPMG’s valuation of 1MDB’s subsidiary, Brazen Sky Limited, was later resolved by its successor, Deloitte Kassim Chan.

Corporate Governance

Regarding Najib’s roles in 1MDB, Tan Sri Lodin testified that there was no confusion within 1MDB about Najib’s three capacities — as Chairman of the Board of Advisors, Prime Minister, and representative of the shareholder (Minister of Finance Inc.). The Board of Directors consistently adhered to corporate governance procedures in compliance with the Companies Act, requiring shareholder approval for substantial acquisitions and disposals. Board minutes and shareholder resolutions confirmed that when approvals were sought, Najib executed the resolutions in his capacity as the representative of MOF Inc., not as the Prime Minister or Chairman of the Board of Advisors.

Lodin confirmed that Article 117 of the Memorandum and Articles of Association was never invoked, as none of its elements were deemed applicable by the Board. This reinforces that all key decisions were made within the legal framework of the Companies Act, without reliance on Article 117 or Najib’s position as Chairman of the Board of Advisors. – NMH

The post 1MDB Siphoning By Shahrol and Cohorts, Not Najib, Senior Cop Testifies first appeared on NMH.

IPOH – Two sisters have etched their names in Malaysia’s academic history as among the youngest medical graduates in the country. Medical prodigy sisters, Dr. Tan Qi Ning, 20, and Dr. Tan Qi Yu, 18, both from Kuala Lumpur, celebrated the remarkable achievements at Quest International University’s (QIU) 8th Convocation ceremony yesterday, marking the culmination of their extraordinary academic journey.

The sisters, who transitioned from traditional schooling to homeschooling at the ages of 10 and 12, enrolled in QIU’s foundation programme in 2018, after completing their International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE). Their exceptional academic prowess and dedication led them to graduate with their MBBS degrees at just 20 and 18 years old.

Early Beginnings and Academic Achievements

Qi Ning and Qi Yu’s academic paths have been nothing short of extraordinary. In addition to their medical studies, Qi Ning was part of the team that won the UniKL Intervarsity Surgical-Based Quiz in 2023, while Qi Yu’s team secured second place in the Malaysian Physiology Quiz. The sisters are also skilled musicians, with Qi Ning playing the violin and Qi Yu the piano, showcasing their versatility beyond academics.

Reflecting on their time at QIU, Dr. Qi Ning praised the support and mentorship they received throughout their studies. “The QIU faculty is incredibly supportive and caring. They are always available to help, even outside office hours. The mentor-mentee sessions were especially valuable in navigating both academic and personal challenges,” she shared.

Meanwhile, Dr. Qi Yu, who also received the Vice-Chancellor’s Award during the convocation, expressed her appreciation for QIU’s well-structured MBBS programme. “The curriculum sparked my interest, and the hands-on experience in multiple hospitals across the state was invaluable. I resonate deeply with the university’s motto of ‘leaving no one behind’,” she said.

Future Aspirations of the Medical Prodigy Sisters

Looking ahead, Dr. Qi Ning hopes to use her medical knowledge and skills to serve society. “I aim to be a compassionate and knowledgeable doctor who can provide comfort and care to my patients and improve their quality of life,” she said.

Dr. Qi Yu, eager to explore various specialties within the medical field, said, “I’m excited to explore different fields within medicine to find one that aligns with my passion. My goal is to deliver the best possible care to my patients.”

Celebrating Diversity in Education

The convocation ceremony also honored another remarkable individual, 72-year-old Capt. (Rtd) Dr. Chan Weng Kwai, who received his Doctor of Business Administration degree from QIU. Capt. Dr. Chan, a former platoon commander of the Territorial Army Regiment and retired school principal, emphasized that age is no barrier to education. “My experiences in the army built my character and resilience. They taught me that if you believe in yourself, you can always learn more,” he said, reflecting on his diverse academic journey from chemistry to business management.

This year’s ceremony saw over 600 graduates from QIU’s six faculties, including Medicine, Pharmacy, Business and Management, Social Sciences, Computing and Engineering, and Integrated Life Sciences. Degrees were conferred by University Council Chairman and Pro-Chancellor Dato’ Sri Dr. Vijay Eswaran, QIU Chancellor Tun Arifin Zakaria, and QIU Vice-Chancellor Professor Zita Mohd Fahmi.

About Quest International University (QIU)

Founded in 2008, Quest International University (QIU) is a private university that offers a wide range of programs at foundation, diploma, degree, and postgraduate levels. With a strong focus on blending theory and practice, QIU prepares students for successful careers by providing industry-relevant education. The university places great emphasis on nurturing well-rounded citizens who are not only academically accomplished but also dedicated to making a positive impact on the community and the environment. – NMH

Also read…

RYTHM Foundation Spurs On With Education Growth For Marginalised Groups

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KUALA LUMPUR – The heated debate surrounding the prerogative powers of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the judicial review of former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s house arrest petition took center stage during Tan Sri Azhar Harun’s speech at the Media Townhall titled “Getting the Facts Right: The Untold Stories of 1MDB and Other Cases.” The event, which was organized by AP Media Comms, aimed to clarify misunderstandings about high-profile cases within Malaysia’s legal and political system.

During his speech, Azhar, a former Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat and renowned constitutional law expert, offered vital insights into the Agong’s powers under Article 42 of the Federal Constitution, specifically regarding Najib’s house arrest petition.

Azhar Harun on the Agong’s Powers

Azhar explained that Article 42 grants the Agong broad powers, not only to issue pardons but also to reduce sentences, grant delays, and offer temporary relief.

“This power is not limited to pardons alone,” Azhar said. “The Agong can suspend sentences, reduce prison terms, or replace prison sentences with house arrest.”

He also delved into the historical context of this power, which originates from the traditional role of monarchs as the highest source of justice and mercy. “Although legislative and judicial powers have been transferred to Parliament and the courts, the Agong’s prerogative to grant pardons remains a personal power,” Azhar explained.

Azhar further emphasized that this prerogative has been reaffirmed by the courts in several landmark cases. “The courts have repeatedly confirmed that the Agong is not bound by the recommendations of the Pardons Board. This is a fundamental principle of our constitutional system,” he added.

Controversy Surrounding the Addendum: Evidence or Hearsay?

The controversy regarding Najib’s petition began when an affidavit filed by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Zahid Hamidi and Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail alleged that the Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz, had shown a document on his phone suggesting house arrest for Najib.

Azhar disagreed with the court’s decision to reject this affidavit as hearsay. “This evidence goes beyond hearsay because both witnesses claimed to have seen the addendum directly. The credibility of this evidence should be debated on its merits, not dismissed outright,” he argued.

Call for Transparency

Azhar also highlighted the importance of transparency in handling Najib’s petition for a pardon. He criticized the government’s response to parliamentary questions regarding the existence of the addendum, calling it vague and insufficient. “Najib, as the petitioner, has the right to know the outcome of his petition. Denying him this information undermines the principles of justice and the rule of law,” he stated.

He further noted that any decision by the Agong requires official documentation, which must pass through agencies such as the Prisons Department, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Attorney General’s office. “If this addendum exists, someone in these agencies must know about it. The lack of clarity only fosters unnecessary speculation,” Azhar added.

Conclusion

Azhar Harun’s analysis at the Media Townhall underscored the complexities of constitutional law and the need for transparency in high-profile cases. As public interest in Najib’s house arrest petition continues to grow, events like “Getting the Facts Right” serve as an important platform for enhancing understanding and ensuring accountability within Malaysia’s justice system.

In conclusion, Azhar said, Najib, as a citizen, has petitioned his King and should be informed about the outcome of his petition.

“He has the right to know the full result of his petition!” Azhar emphasized.

“Can you imagine, you sue me, but the judge does not want to tell me the result? So how? What is going to happen to our rule of law when the people are not told the result of the legal action?

“I’m not accusing the government of anything, but in the normal course of business, if there is a pardon, that document will go to the Prisons Department because they have to act on it.

“With all the procedures—Prisons Department, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Legal Affairs Division, the Law Minister, and the Attorney-General—someone must know. At the very least, the Prisons Department will know.

“A question was asked in Parliament, but the answers are not satisfactory. I think it’s only fair that the petitioner be made aware of the full result of his petition.

“Because that’s a petition to his King. And only the Agong can exercise the power of mercy,” he said.

Media Townhall: Correcting Misunderstandings

This Media Townhall also served as a platform for experts and stakeholders to discuss narratives surrounding cases like 1MDB and Najib’s petition. The event, organized by AP Media Comms, promoted informed dialogue, challenged misinformation, and enhanced understanding of Malaysia’s legal and political landscape.

“Our objective is to ensure that the public gets an accurate and balanced perspective on these complex cases. Events like this are crucial to counter misunderstandings and provide clarity so that the media can report correctly, and the public can receive true explanations,” said a spokesperson for AP Media Comms.

In addition to Azhar, the main panelists included Najib’s lead lawyer, Tan Sri Shafee Abdullah, and prominent Syariah lawyer Tuan Adzly Abdul Manas. Senior lawyer and social activist Tuan Haji Kamarudin Ahmad was invited as the moderator and also provided insights into other related cases, such as the IPIC case and the contents of former Attorney General Tan Sri Tommy Thomas’s book. – NMH

… other news to follow …

The post Azhar Harun Explains Controversy Over Najib’s House Arrest Petition first appeared on NMH.